Tri-Layer Orthotic Energy Return System with Dynamic Lever
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional orthotics are not dynamic, unable to make adjustments during the gait cycle to address foot deformities and patho-mechanical dysfunctions, and lack solutions for dynamic offloading of diabetic ulcers and other foot injuries.
Innovation Solution
A bi-layer and tri-layer orthotic energy return system that uses a resilient base layer, lever, and orthotic with a tensioning member to absorb and return energy, allowing for dynamic deformation and adjustment throughout the gait cycle, including offloading of pressure points and correction of foot alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional rigid orthotic devices are used, then structural support is provided, but dynamic adjustments during the gait cycle cannot be made
Solution Approach 1:
The orthotic device incorporates a resilient base layer that dynamically deforms during the gait cycle, transitioning from a static rigid structure to a dynamic system that adapts to changing biomechanical conditions. The base layer's ability to deform and recover provides continuous adjustment without complex mechanical components.
Solution Approach 2:
The device changes the physical state of the base layer from rigid to resilient, allowing it to undergo reversible deformation. This parameter change enables the orthotic to absorb impact energy during stance phase and return energy during swing phase, providing dynamic support without complex mechanisms.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional static orthotics are used, then foot alignment is corrected in fixed positions, but dynamic offloading of pressure points cannot be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The resilient base layer dynamically adjusts pressure distribution throughout the gait cycle by deforming under load and recovering when unloaded. This dynamic behavior automatically offloads pressure points during high-stress phases while maintaining support during low-stress phases, adapting to real-time biomechanical conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The base layer serves itself by using its inherent resilience to automatically adjust pressure distribution without external control systems. The material's elastic properties enable it to self-regulate force distribution, identifying and offloading pressure points based on local deformation characteristics.
3Power
If impact energy is absorbed by hard surfaces during gait, then propulsion is achieved, but physical damage and injury occur
Solution Approach 1:
The resilient base layer is positioned beforehand to intercept and absorb impact energy before it can be transmitted to the foot and musculoskeletal system. By placing the cushioning element in advance within the orthotic structure, impact forces are mitigated at the source while preserving propulsion functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The device converts harmful impact energy into beneficial elastic deformation of the base layer. The impact force that would normally cause injury is instead stored as elastic potential energy in the resilient material, which is then returned as propulsive force during the gait cycle, transforming harm into benefit.
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
Enables precise positioning and alignment of the foot, mitigates excessive forces, and effectively treats foot injuries by dynamically offloading pressure, promoting proper function and alignment throughout the gait cycle.
Implementation Method 1
a resilient base layer operably coupled to an orthotic at a heel of the orthotic. As a subject's heel strikes a surface, the base layer deforms and absorbs impact energy. As the subject moves into toe-off, the base layer rebounds and returns energy to the subject's foot.
Data Source
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AI summary
A tri-layer energy return system is provided. The tri-layer energy return system includes a base; an orthotic; a platen directly or indirectly operably coupled to the base, the orthotic or both. A lever including a slide portion is movably received by said base. A tensioning member is coupled to said orthotic at an attachment point thereof.