Variable Tension Panels for Proprioceptive Posture Correction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current devices fail to provide a long-term solution for correcting anterior pelvic tilt (APT) and associated IT band syndrome by merely offering support that is not effective when removed, and existing solutions are either bulky or require manual adjustment, lacking in proprioceptive training for dynamic movements.
Innovation Solution
Wearable orthopedic devices, such as posture correction shorts with carefully positioned panels of variable tension, target areas like the IT band and inseam to adjust proprioceptor sensitivities, preventing excessive strain and internal rotation, and retraining the body to maintain a neutral pelvis through proprioceptive feedback.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional support devices are used to correct anterior pelvic tilt, then immediate postural support is provided, but the solution is not effective in the long-term when the device is removed
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates proprioceptive feedback mechanisms through strategically positioned panels that apply variable tension to specific muscle groups. This feedback loop allows the wearer's nervous system to receive continuous information about muscle length and tension, enabling the brain to retrain muscle activation patterns and maintain proper pelvic alignment even after device removal
Solution Approach 2:
The device enables the body's own proprioceptive system to perform the correction work. By stimulating muscle spindles and Golgi tendon organs through targeted tension, the body's natural feedback mechanisms drive the retraining process, making the correction self-sustaining rather than relying on external mechanical support alone
2Reliability
If existing posture correction devices are designed to provide comprehensive support, then they become bulky and require manual adjustment
Solution Approach 1:
The device divides the lower body into distinct functional zones with specialized panels targeting specific muscle groups and anatomical regions. Each panel is positioned to address particular postural issues (anterior pelvic tilt, IT band syndrome, femoral internal rotation) through localized tension application, eliminating the need for bulky comprehensive support structures
Solution Approach 2:
Different panels are designed with varying tension characteristics and material properties tailored to the specific needs of each body region. The variable tension panels provide customized support levels for different muscle groups, achieving effective posture correction through localized quality rather than uniform bulky construction
3Shape
If static support is provided to correct pelvic tilt, then immediate alignment is achieved, but proprioceptive training for dynamic movements is lacking
Solution Approach 1:
The device transitions from static mechanical support to dynamic proprioceptive training by engaging the body's active nervous system. The variable tension panels create dynamic feedback during both static and dynamic movements, allowing the proprioceptive system to learn and adapt to proper alignment during actual movement patterns rather than just maintaining fixed position
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure is directed to a wearable orthopedic device for lower body posture correction and improve human ergonomics. Embodiments of the present disclosure include pairs of men's and women's shorts that have specially positioned and tensioned panels for providing a wearer with a neutral pelvis. In certain embodiments, the device targets the body's proprioceptors to train the body to properly align itself.