V-Shaped Lumbar Cushion for Adaptive Spinal Support
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional lumbar support belts are ineffective in providing adequate support to the lumbar region due to mechanical pressure on lower vertebrae and discomfort, as they fail to adapt to the natural lumbar curve and require rigid, heavy, and expensive custom-made corsets for orthopedic relief.
Innovation Solution
A lumbar support belt featuring an elastic textile band with a cushion shaped like a V, where the flanges bear on the iliac crests and the joining area contacts the sacrum and lower vertebrae, reducing mechanical pressure on the lower vertebrae and providing adaptive support through a flexible, breathable design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional elastic textile band is used for lumbar support, then the belt is comfortable and easy to wear, but it cannot provide adequate support to the lumbar region due to failure to adapt to the natural lumbar curve
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a flexible cushion element that conforms to the natural lumbar curve, replacing rigid structural solutions. The cushion is made of flexible material that adapts to the wearer's anatomy while providing the necessary support, thus resolving the contradiction between adaptability and support effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the physical parameters of the support structure by using a cushion with specific geometric characteristics (curved surface matching lumbar lordosis) and material properties (flexibility, compressibility). This allows the support device to adapt to individual anatomical variations while maintaining reliable lumbar support.
2Force
If the belt is tightened around the lower portion of the torso, then it provides support, but the stretched band cannot fit the shape of the lumbar curve and cannot exert effective support in that area
Solution Approach 1:
The cushion is designed with a curved surface that matches the lumbar lordosis, allowing it to fit the natural shape of the lower back. This curvature enables the cushion to maintain contact and exert support force even when the belt is tightened, resolving the contradiction between force application and shape conformity.
Solution Approach 2:
The cushion element is designed to be dynamic in nature, allowing it to deform and adapt to the lumbar curve as the belt is tightened. The flexible material enables the cushion to maintain its conforming shape under compression, ensuring both shape fit and effective force application.
3Reliability
If rigid corsets with stiffening means are used, then orthopedic support is improved, but the devices become expensive, heavy, and uncomfortable
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces expensive, heavy rigid corsets with a more economical flexible cushion that can be integrated into a standard belt. The cushion provides sufficient orthopedic support through its design and material properties without requiring heavy rigid structures, thus reducing weight and cost while maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses flexible cushioning material instead of rigid stiffening elements. This flexible approach provides the necessary orthopedic support through controlled deformation and pressure distribution, eliminating the need for heavy rigid structures and reducing both weight and cost.
4Reliability
If rigid corsets with stiffening means are used, then orthopedic support is improved, but the devices become uncomfortable for the wearer
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible cushion material provides orthopedic support through its ability to conform to the body and distribute pressure evenly, unlike rigid corsets that create pressure points and discomfort. The flexibility allows for natural movement and breathing while maintaining support, significantly improving wearing comfort.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the mechanical parameters of the support structure from rigid to flexible, allowing the support element to adapt to body movements and maintain comfort. The cushion's material properties enable it to provide consistent orthopedic support while accommodating natural body dynamics, resolving the contradiction between support reliability and comfort.
Data Source
AI summary
A belt comprising an elastic band having a central portion and two end portions, wherein a cushion is fastened on the inner surface of the central portion of the band, centered relative to the transverse median axis. The cushion is in the shape of a V whereby the tip is oriented downward when the belt is worn, and has two flanges connected by a joining area. The cushion is designed and positioned so that, when the belt is worn, the free end portion of each flange bears on the corresponding iliac crest of the person, and the joining area is in contact with the area comprising the upper portion of the sacrum and the lower portion of the lumbar vertebrae.