Thermoformable Spinal Brace for Neuromotor Training
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional musculoskeletal support bracing falls short in providing a customizable, low-profile, and multifaceted solution for therapeutic spinal support, failing to effectively aid in spinal alignment, posture improvement, respiration, and motion control, particularly in restricting undesirable trunk movements and promoting corrective movements.
Innovation Solution
A thermoformable spinal brace designed for customizable shaping, anchored via lateral extensions to the pelvis and secured with an anterior apron assembly, which allows for control of trunk movements in various planes and produces intracavitary pressure to reduce intervertebral disc load, integrated with a garment subsystem for enhanced neuromotor training.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional musculoskeletal support bracing is used, then basic spinal support is provided, but the bracing fails to provide effective customization for individual spinal alignment, posture improvement, and motion control needs
Solution Approach 1:
The brace is pre-configured with multiple adjustment mechanisms and modular components that allow clinicians to customize the bracing configuration before application. The preliminary setup includes adjustable strapping systems, removable components, and pre-positioned support elements that can be tailored to individual patient needs without requiring complex on-site modifications.
Solution Approach 2:
The bracing system incorporates dynamic adjustment capabilities allowing modification of support levels, strap tensions, and component positions during the therapeutic process. This enables the brace to adapt to changing patient conditions and progress through different stages of rehabilitation while maintaining optimal support without requiring complete replacement of the bracing system.
2Reliability
If conventional bracing is used, then some spinal support is provided, but it fails to effectively restrict undesirable trunk movements and promote corrective movements in all planes of motion
Solution Approach 1:
The bracing system applies different levels and types of support to specific regions of the trunk. The thoracic and lumbar regions receive differentiated support through strategically positioned straps, pads, and rigid elements. This localized approach targets specific movement restrictions and postural corrections needed in different anatomical zones without requiring uniform complex bracing throughout the entire trunk.
Solution Approach 2:
The bracing structure integrates multiple functional components into a unified system that simultaneously provides spinal alignment support, trunk motion restriction in multiple planes, postural correction, and comfort management. The combination of rigid and flexible elements, along with multi-directional strapping, creates a versatile system that addresses various therapeutic objectives without requiring multiple separate devices.
3Stress or pressure
If conventional bracing is used, then basic support is provided, but it fails to produce adequate intracavitary pressure to reduce load on intervertebral discs
Solution Approach 1:
The bracing system combines rigid support elements with flexible strapping and cushioning components to create a unified structure that effectively distributes compressive forces. The integration of these different material properties allows the generation of intracavitary pressure through the coordinated action of multiple components working together, rather than relying on a single complex mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The bracing design replicates the natural support mechanisms of the body's own structures by distributing pressure across broad surfaces and using the body's own anatomy (such as the curvature of the spine and contours of the trunk) to enhance pressure distribution. This approach reduces the need for excessively complex artificial pressure-generating mechanisms while achieving the therapeutic intracavitary pressure effect.
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 solution provides effective control of gross trunk movement and intersegmental vertebral motion, reducing load on intervertebral discs, and facilitates improved spinal alignment and posture through customizable and adjustable support, addressing the limitations of conventional bracing systems.
Implementation Method 1
a unique thermoformable spinal brace for customizable shaping to an individual wearer
Data Source
AI summary
A thermoformable spinal brace for customizable shaping to a wearer by a skilled clinician, preferably worn under the wearer's clothes and worn over and releasably attached to a subsystem of neuromotor training garments for the torso. The subsystem of garments for the torso may include upper- and lower-torso garments whether unitary or two or more pieces interconnected with flexible straps. An anterior apron assembly with strapping is included for further support, creating a unique therapeutic mammalian musculoskeletal spinal orthosis system.