Spinal Weighting Frame With Adjustable Torque for Scoliosis Correction

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing external weighting devices and braces for correcting spinal scoliosis are often ineffective, leading to partial correction or the need for surgical intervention.

Innovation Solution

A corrective weighing device with adjustable padded contact members and armatures that apply torque to de-rotate the spine, combined with exercise routines, to provide comprehensive spinal correction without surgery.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If prior art weighting devices and braces are used to correct scoliosis, then some correction can be achieved, but the correction is only partial and some types of scoliosis are resistant to correction

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecorrection effectivenessVSAvoidapplicability to different scoliosis types

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The device segments the correction function into multiple independent adjustable components: the frame can be configured in different geometries, the armature can be positioned at various locations and angles, and the weights can be adjusted independently. This segmentation allows the device to be customized for different scoliosis types and severities, resolving the contradiction between correction effectiveness and adaptability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The device incorporates dynamic adjustability through movable armatures, adjustable weight positions, and configurable frame structures. These dynamic elements allow the device to adapt to different patient anatomies and scoliosis configurations, enabling effective correction across various scoliosis types while maintaining high correction effectiveness.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Reliability

If surgical intervention is performed to correct spinal deformities, then spinal support can be provided, but risks, expense and temporary absence from work and/or school occur

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvespinal support reliabilityVSAvoidsurgical risks and side effects

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The device enables self-service correction by leveraging the patient's own muscle strength. When the patient wears the weighted device, their muscles work to counterbalance the applied forces, actively engaging in the correction process. This self-service mechanism provides reliable spinal support and correction without requiring surgical intervention, thereby avoiding surgical risks and associated side effects.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

3Force

If external weighting devices are used to correct spinal curvature, then corrective forces can be applied, but the devices may not effectively treat complex spinal deformities

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecorrective force applicationVSAvoiddeformity correction precision

Core Design Contradiction:

ForceVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The device applies local quality correction by concentrating corrective forces at specific locations along the spine through strategically positioned armatures and contact members. The frame geometry and armature placement can be customized to target specific deformity regions, allowing precise correction of complex spinal deformities while maintaining effective force application.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The device enables parameter changes in corrective force application through adjustable weight magnitudes, variable armature positions, and configurable frame geometries. These parameter adjustments allow the device to precisely match the specific characteristics of different spinal deformities, improving correction precision for complex cases while maintaining effective force application.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

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

The device effectively corrects complex spinal deformities by strengthening muscles and applying corrective forces, reducing the need for surgical intervention and improving patient mobility.

Implementation Method 1

an armature for receiving one or more weights extending away from the frame in a first direction... the armature is operative to translate laterally from at least one of the first and second padded contact members

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectTorque: Torque

Implementation Method 2

one or more weights extending away from the frame

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectGravitation: Gravitation

Implementation Method 3

a padded first contact member on one side of the frame, a padded second contact member on another side of the frame that opposes the first contact member

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMechanical Force: Mechanical Force

Data Source

PatentUS12514774B2Spinal weighting devices

Publication Date: 2026.01.06 SCOLIWRX INC

AI summary

A spinal weighting device has pairs of adjustable padding on supporting frames for making contact with selected portions of the core or trunk of a patient and includes an extending armature for applying force to urge at least one of the contacting pads to adjust the spine and/or cause the selective strengthening of muscles or muscle groups to correct scoliosis. The opposing padding members are disposed at oblique angles to correct spinal rotation as well as lateral curvature.