Posture Vest with Elastic Panels and Rigid Spine Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing physiotherapeutic devices fail to provide effective support and balance for individuals with neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson's, as they lack a system for proper force vector tensioning and range of motion, often causing harm due to rigidity and awkwardness.
Innovation Solution
A vest with a waist tensioning system and spine support system, featuring elastic segment panels, a rigid support member, and adjustable shoulder straps that apply pressure to the sacrum and shoulders, allowing for active and passive adjustment of posture and balance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If prior art brace devices are used to force proper posture, then posture correction is provided, but the devices lack proper force vector tensioning and range of motion, causing harm and rigidity
Solution Approach 1:
The brace device incorporates dynamic elements including elastic panels that allow controlled movement and flexibility, enabling the device to adapt to the user's range of motion while maintaining posture correction. The elastic panels are strategically positioned to provide support during movement rather than rigid constraint.
Solution Approach 2:
The device utilizes adjustable tensioning mechanisms that allow modification of force vector parameters. The tensioning system includes adjustable straps and connectors that enable customization of the magnitude and direction of corrective forces applied to different body regions, optimizing both effectiveness and comfort.
2Strength
If rigid support structures are used in prior art devices, then posture support is provided, but the devices become awkward and cause additional harm
Solution Approach 1:
The brace device employs flexible elastic panels instead of rigid structures in key areas. These panels are engineered to provide necessary support while accommodating natural body movements, eliminating the awkwardness associated with rigid designs. The panels maintain structural integrity for support while allowing flexibility for usability.
3Device complexity
If prior art devices lack proper force vector tensioning, then simple construction is maintained, but effective support and balance assistance is not provided
Solution Approach 1:
The tensioning system is divided into multiple independent segments including separate elastic panels, adjustable straps, and modular connectors. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall system simplicity. The modular design enables independent adjustment of force vectors without complicating the entire device construction.
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 vest effectively maintains posture and balance by applying corrective forces, improving upper back support and range of motion, making it suitable for individuals with neurodegenerative diseases.
Implementation Method 1
The vest may include a plurality of segment panels, each exhibiting an elasticity so as to provide support and therapeutic effect
Implementation Method 2
With the support member being rigid, or at least semi-rigid, the device may be configured so that when donned by the user and the waist straps are pulled, the support member applies pressure to the user's sacrum
Implementation Method 3
The shoulder straps extending from the tensioning system enable generation of force vectors in a direction opposite of those that may be generated by traditional shoulder straps
Implementation Method 4
The components, all connected together, work in concert to actively and passively adjust tension and apply pressure to straighten shoulders and improve posture
Data Source
AI summary
A physiotherapeutic device has a waist tensioning system and a spine support system that enable correction and/or maintaining postural stance for individuals suffering from poor posture and/or neurodegenerative disease. The device provides a posture support and retention system during episodes of postural instability to enable individuals to maintain posture and balance while performing functions. The device includes a garment with shoulder straps extending from the tensioning system to generate force vectors in a direction opposite of those generated by traditional shoulder straps. A rigid support member is disposed in the garment to run parallel with the spinal column. The shoulder straps and waist straps tie into an anchor located on a portion of the garment directly over the support member. The connected components work in concert to actively and passively adjust tension and apply pressure to straighten shoulders and improve the upper back support.