Adjustable Knee Apparatus with Telescoping U-Frame
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing leg exercise devices are cumbersome and lack portability and effectiveness for therapeutic knee rehabilitation, particularly in straightening the leg after surgery and exercising the knee joint.
Innovation Solution
A therapeutic knee apparatus featuring a squared U-shaped member with adjustable length components, a fulcrum, and a lever arm with a handle, allowing for adjustable positioning to apply torque to the knee joint for both extension and flexion exercises, and compact storage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional leg exercise devices are used for knee rehabilitation, then knee joint exercise function is provided, but the devices are cumbersome and lack portability
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into multiple independent components: a U-shaped member with adjustable length, a separate fulcrum, and a lever arm with handle. These segments can be assembled and disassembled easily, enabling portability while maintaining therapeutic function for knee extension and flexion exercises
Solution Approach 2:
The U-shaped member features adjustable length through telescoping sections with detent mechanisms, allowing the device to adapt to different user sizes and storage requirements. The lever arm can be positioned at multiple angular orientations relative to the fulcrum, providing dynamic adaptability for various exercise positions and enhancing both portability and functionality
2Adaptability or versatility
If fixed-length exercise devices are used, then manufacturing is simplified, but adaptability to different users and conditions is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The U-shaped member incorporates telescoping sections with detent mechanisms that allow easy adjustment of length. The lever arm is mounted on the fulcrum with the capability to be positioned at multiple angular orientations. These dynamic adjustment features enable the device to adapt to different user sizes, injury conditions, and exercise requirements without overly complicating the overall structure
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustable design allows a single device to serve multiple functions: it can accommodate different user heights and limb lengths, support both knee extension and flexion exercises, and adapt to various therapeutic stages. The multi-position lever arm enables the same apparatus to effectively treat different knee conditions and rehabilitation phases
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 apparatus provides effective and portable knee joint exercises, facilitating rehabilitation and therapy by enabling controlled torque application for both knee extension and flexion, while being easy to use and store.
Implementation Method 1
the lever arm can be pivoted to provide torque on the knee joint
Implementation Method 2
An adjustable length lever arm is secured to the fulcrum at selected angular positions with respect to the central member
Data Source
AI summary
A therapeutic knee apparatus for exercising a knee or rehabilitating an injured knee including a squared U-shaped member having an adjustable length central member to which is attached a leg member at each end thereof. A fulcrum is fixedly attached to the central member. An adjustable length lever arm is secured to the fulcrum at selected angular positions with respect to the central member and a handle is attached to the lever arm at a distal end thereof.