Walking Boot Strut Adjustment for Precise Ankle Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional walking boots are rigid and do not allow for precise adjustment of the leg position relative to the ankle, often allowing unwanted movement that can delay healing.
Innovation Solution
A walking boot apparatus with adjustable struts and a bladder system for enhanced leg securing, allowing for customizable positioning and compression to maintain an ideal ankle alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If conventional walking boots use rigid support structures, then structural stability is improved, but adaptability of leg positioning deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the struts adjustable rather than fixed. The struts can be bent to different angles and positions, allowing the boot to adapt to various leg positioning requirements while maintaining structural support. This transforms the rigid structure into a dynamically adjustable one, resolving the contradiction between stability and adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by allowing the struts to be modified in terms of their angular position and orientation. The struts can be bent to different degrees and secured at various angles, changing the structural parameters of the boot to match the specific needs of different patients and injury types, thus achieving both stability and adaptability.
2Ease of manufacture
If conventional walking boots use fixed support structures, then manufacturing simplicity is improved, but adjustment precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the support structure into multiple adjustable struts that can be independently positioned and secured. Each strut can be adjusted to a precise angle and locked in place, allowing for high positioning precision while maintaining relatively simple manufacturing processes using common materials and fastening mechanisms.
3Device complexity
If conventional walking boots use simple securing mechanisms, then device complexity is reduced, but securing reliability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-positioning the struts and securing them at the desired angles before the patient uses the boot. The struts are bent and locked into their final positions during manufacturing or setup, ensuring reliable immobilization without requiring complex adjustment mechanisms during use. This preliminary positioning ensures the leg remains securely immobilized throughout the healing process.
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
Facilitates precise adjustment and secure immobilization of the leg relative to the ankle, promoting healing by maintaining a desired position and reducing unwanted movement.
Implementation Method 1
The first bar may be configured to be bent towards or away from the leg, such that the first bar biases the first strut towards or away from the leg
Implementation Method 2
The sleeve includes a bladder. The apparatus may further include a valve disposed on the bladder. The valve may be configured to inject air into the bladder
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides for a walking boot apparatus. The apparatus may include a base, uprights extending from the base and struts disposed in openings on the uprights. The apparatus may further include a bar disposed on one or both struts. A bar may be configured to be bent towards or away from the leg, such that the bar biases a strut towards or away from the leg. The apparatus may further include a sleeve disposed between the first upright and the second upright, which may include an inflatable bladder.