U-Shaped Stocking Applicator for Heel and Ankle Fitting

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing stocking applicators are difficult to use, particularly for fitting over the heel and ankle, require significant force, and are not suitable for upper limbs, often necessitating assistance and causing discomfort due to the need for twisting or bending, and many are not designed for easy removal without sliding back over the foot.

Innovation Solution

A U-shaped stocking applicator with a heel opening and a smooth, rigid design that allows easy application and removal by sliding over the foot and up the calf, suitable for both upper and lower limbs, featuring a handle for assistance and a compact, lightweight structure that can be easily stored and transported.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If wire type applicators are used, then the stocking can be inserted into the applicator, but the patient must lower their foot into the device which is not suitable for sitting or lying positions

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestocking application capabilityVSAvoidadaptability to different patient positions

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of requiring the patient to lower their foot into the applicator from above, the U-shaped channel applicator is designed to be placed on top of the foot with the opening facing upward. This inversion allows the patient to remain in sitting or lying positions while the applicator is applied.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

Solution Approach 2:

The applicator is designed to be universally applicable regardless of patient position (sitting, lying, or standing). The U-shaped channel configuration allows the same device to function effectively in all positions, eliminating the limitation of wire type applicators.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Strength

If rigid tube applicators are used, then some advantages over simple ring are achieved, but the tube needs to be removed back over the foot and does not fit the stocking satisfactorily

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestructural rigidityVSAvoidease of removal and stocking fit

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The U-shaped channel applicator inverts the removal mechanism by opening at the top, allowing the rigid structure to be removed by lifting away from the foot rather than sliding back over it. This maintains structural rigidity while eliminating the difficult removal process.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

Solution Approach 2:

The applicator features a U-shaped channel with specific local geometry that matches the contour of the foot, ankle, and calf. This localized shaping allows the rigid tube to conform to body contours while maintaining overall structural strength.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

3Ease of operation

If complicated mechanical stocking applicators are used, then stocking application is assisted, but they are expensive to manufacture, difficult to use, and difficult to transport

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestocking application assistanceVSAvoidmanufacturing cost and portability

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The applicator is segmented into a simple U-shaped channel structure without complex mechanical components. This segmentation eliminates the need for expensive manufacturing and complex assembly, while maintaining the ability to assist stocking application through its geometric design.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The simple U-shaped design serves multiple functions: supporting the heel, guiding the stocking, and facilitating easy removal. This multi-functionality is achieved without complex mechanics, reducing manufacturing cost and improving portability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

4Productivity

If traditional applicators are used, then stocking can be fitted, but significant force is required and it causes discomfort due to twisting or bending

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestocking application efficiencyVSAvoiddiscomfort and potential damage to stocking

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The U-shaped channel is designed with local geometric features that match the foot and ankle contours. This local quality allows the stocking to be guided smoothly around the heel and ankle without requiring twisting or bending forces, reducing discomfort and preventing stocking damage.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The applicator features curved surfaces and rounded edges that guide the stocking smoothly over the foot and ankle. This curvature eliminates sharp angles that would require twisting forces, making the application process comfortable and damage-free.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #14Spheroidality (Curvature)

Data Source

PatentUS9032551B2Compression stocking applicator

Publication Date: 2015.05.19 EZY AS ABC PTY LTD

AI summary

The disclosure provides a medical compression stocking applicator having an elongate member which has a pair of opposed sidewalls and an interconnecting wall and therefore may be substantially U-shaped in cross-section and is open at each end. The elongate member also includes a heel opening between the ends of the elongate member. The heel opening extends entirely through the elongate member, and is adapted to support a person's heel during application of a stocking.