Toe Correction Apparatus with Pressure-Sensing Airbag
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current toe correction apparatuses either lack effectiveness in correcting hallux valgus deformity or are uncomfortable for long-term wear, and users often apply incorrect correction forces due to lack of professional knowledge.
Innovation Solution
A toe correction apparatus featuring sensors to measure pressure and joint protrusion, with a processor controlling an adjustable airbag to correct hallux alignment, integrated with optional sensors for monitoring arterial oxygen saturation and foot sweat, and a method for manufacturing using nano-paper and graphene active layers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional rigid correction apparatuses are used to correct hallux valgus, then correction effectiveness is improved, but comfort and ease of long-term wear deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs flexible wearable components including elastic bands, adhesive patches, and thin film structures that conform to the foot anatomy. These flexible elements provide continuous gentle correction forces without the rigidity that causes discomfort, enabling long-term wear while maintaining correction effectiveness through sustained application.
Solution Approach 2:
The correction apparatus utilizes adjustable correction forces that can be modified based on user needs and progression of correction. The system allows parameter changes in force magnitude and application points, transitioning from strong initial correction to gentler maintenance forces, thereby improving both effectiveness and comfort over time.
2Reliability
If users apply strong correction forces manually, then correction effectiveness is improved, but risk of adverse effects like poor blood circulation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus incorporates cushioning elements and pressure-distributing structures that prevent excessive localized forces before they can cause harm. Soft padding materials and distributed force application points are designed in advance to cushion the hallux and surrounding tissues, preventing blood circulation issues while maintaining correction effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates sensors that provide feedback on pressure distribution and tissue response, allowing real-time adjustment of correction forces. This feedback mechanism prevents excessive forces that could cause harm by automatically reducing pressure when tissue compression is detected, while maintaining sufficient force for effective correction.
3Ease of operation
If users lack professional knowledge about their deformity, then ease of use is improved, but correction precision and effectiveness deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus is designed to be self-adjusting and self-regulating, automatically adapting to the user's specific deformity characteristics without requiring professional knowledge. Sensors and control systems enable the device to self-calibrate and optimize correction parameters based on real-time measurement of the hallux valgus angle and pressure distribution, making professional assessment unnecessary while maintaining high correction precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces manual adjustment mechanisms with automated electronic control systems that use sensors and processors to determine optimal correction parameters. This substitution of mechanical user-adjustment with electronic automation eliminates the need for user knowledge while achieving precise correction through computer-controlled force application.
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 a comfortable and effective long-term correction of hallux valgus deformity by adjusting the airbag based on real-time pressure and joint data, preventing adverse effects like poor blood circulation and improper shoe fitting, while educating users on their deformity severity and correction needs.
Implementation Method 1
a first sensor attachable to a first side of a hallux proximate to a second toe, and configured to measure first pressure information between the hallux and the second toe
Implementation Method 2
a second sensor attachable to a second side of the hallux away from the second toe and configured to measure a second pressure information at the second side of the hallux
Implementation Method 3
the optical sensor is attachable to the hallux, and configured to detect an arterial oxygen saturation of the hallux
Data Source
AI summary
A toe correction apparatus and a method for manufacturing the same are provided. The toe correction apparatus includes: a first sensor attachable to a first side of a hallux proximate to a second toe for measuring first pressure information between the hallux and the second toe; and a processor, configured to determine a degree to which the hallux bends to the second toe according to the first pressure information, and control an inflation amount or a deflation amount of an adjustable airbag between the hallux and the second toe according to the degree to which the hallux bends to the second toe.