Stabilization Wedge for Boot Limb Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing heel ulcer prevention and cushioning boot may require additional stabilization to maintain proper limb orientation, as patients sometimes struggle to maintain the necessary positioning.
Innovation Solution
A stabilization boot design featuring an elongated stabilization block with a tether and hook-and-loop fasteners that secure to the boot, providing additional support and stability through a flexible strap system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a heel ulcer prevention and cushioning boot is used, then heel elevation, support and comfort are provided, but additional stabilization is needed to maintain proper limb orientation
Solution Approach 1:
The stabilization system is divided into separate components: a stabilization block and a tether strap. This segmentation allows the boot to provide its primary function while the separate stabilization components add positioning reliability without significantly increasing the core boot structure's complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The stabilization block acts as an intermediary element between the boot and the tether strap. It provides a secure attachment point on the boot and a pivot point for the strap, enabling the tether to effectively maintain limb orientation without requiring direct integration into the boot's primary structure.
2Ease of operation
If a stabilization block with tether is added to the boot, then proper limb orientation is maintained, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The tether strap is designed to be movable rather than rigidly fixed. It can pivot at the stabilization block and be adjusted in length and positioning, allowing dynamic adaptation to different patient needs and positions while maintaining ease of operation for maintaining proper limb orientation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows for parameter changes in the tether strap configuration, including adjustable length and positioning. This flexibility enables the same basic structure to accommodate various limb positions and patient requirements without increasing fundamental device complexity.
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
Enhances the stability and positioning of the boot, ensuring effective prevention and treatment of heel ulcers by maintaining proper limb alignment and reducing the risk of further complications.
Implementation Method 1
a first fastener element on the stabilization block and a second fastener element on the boot. Preferably, the fastener elements comprise hook-and-loop elements
Implementation Method 2
a tether secured to and extending from the block and secured to and extending from the boot
Data Source
AI summary
A device for stabilizing a limb, typically when the limb is in a prevention and therapeutic/treatment boot. A wedge-shaped stabilization block includes an outwardly-extending tether. In one form of the invention, a fastener in the form of spaced fastener elements is located on the tether for securing the stabilization block in place. In a second form of the invention, the stabilization block is permanently affixed to the boot and may include fastener elements for engaging complementary fastener elements on the boot.