Spinal Traction Suspension System for Sitting Position Therapy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current mechanized spinal distraction devices for treating low back pain are limited in their ability to provide adjustable and comfortable therapy options, often requiring users to remain stationary and are not suitable for application in a sitting position.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a coupling apparatus and a supporting apparatus, which can be adjusted to apply traction to the spine while the user is in a sitting position, utilizing a control apparatus to manage the position and state of the supporting apparatus, allowing for variable weight distribution and enhanced user comfort through adjustable features.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If mechanized spinal distraction devices use computer controlled mechanical tables to apply distractive tension, then spinal decompression therapy can be effectively applied, but users are limited in position and activity as they must remain stationary and lying down
Solution Approach 1:
The device transitions from a static table-based system to a dynamic suspension system where the user can move freely while receiving therapy. The weight support apparatus allows the user's body weight to be partially or fully supported, enabling movement and position changes during treatment, thus resolving the contradiction between therapeutic effectiveness and user mobility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the complex computer-controlled mechanical table system with a simpler suspension-based system using weight support and traction application. This substitution maintains therapeutic effectiveness through controlled traction forces while eliminating the need for a rigid mechanical table, thereby improving user mobility and comfort.
2Force
If traditional spinal distraction devices are designed for lying down position, then adequate traction force can be applied to the spine, but the therapy is not suitable for application in a sitting position and requires extensive immobilization
Solution Approach 1:
The device is designed to provide spinal decompression therapy in multiple positions, particularly enabling sitting position therapy in addition to traditional lying down positions. The coupling apparatus and weight support system work together to maintain adequate traction force across different body positions, making the device universally applicable and eliminating the need for extensive immobilization.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a new dimension of freedom by enabling vertical suspension and weight support, allowing the user to be suspended in space rather than confined to a horizontal table surface. This dimensional change enables sitting position therapy while maintaining adequate traction forces through the coupling apparatus and adjustable weight support system.
3Device complexity
If fixed weight support is used in spinal distraction devices, then the device structure is simple, but it cannot provide adjustable traction for different users or treatment stages
Solution Approach 1:
The weight support apparatus incorporates adjustable features that allow the supported weight to be dynamically modified during treatment. This enables customization of traction forces for different users and treatment stages while maintaining a relatively simple overall device structure, resolving the contradiction between structural simplicity and adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The device allows for parameter changes in the supported weight through adjustable mechanisms in the weight support apparatus. This enables the same device structure to provide different traction forces by simply adjusting weight parameters, maintaining structural simplicity while achieving high adaptability for different users and treatment requirements.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables effective spinal decompression therapy in a sitting position, providing adjustable traction and comfort, allowing for nonoperative treatment of back pain conditions like disc protrusion and degenerative disc disease without the need for extensive immobilization.
Implementation Method 1
The supporting apparatus is configured to support at least a portion of a weight of the user
Implementation Method 2
The coupling apparatus and the supporting apparatus are configured to facilitate applying traction to at least a portion of a spine of the user
Data Source
AI summary
In one embodiment, there is provided a system for applying therapy to a human body. The system includes a coupling apparatus and a supporting apparatus. The coupling apparatus is configured to couple to an upper body portion of a user. The supporting apparatus is configured to support at least a portion of a weight of the user. An amount of weight that is supported is adjustable. In some embodiments, the system may further include a control apparatus configured to control at least one of a state and/or a position of the supporting apparatus.