Winged Wrist Support Structure for Neutral Forearm Posture
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wrist and forearm rests for computer users are ergonomically flawed, as they often position the wrist and forearm too low, apply direct pressure on the carpal tunnel canal, fail to support the arm during transitions between input devices, and are integrated with either the mouse or keyboard, leading to discomfort and stress.
Innovation Solution
A wrist and forearm support device with a body extending from a base to a wing end, featuring two wing supports spaced apart to form a void accommodating the carpal tunnel region, with adjustable latitudinal and longitudinal support angles and a low-friction base for smooth transitions between input devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If current wrist and forearm rests are used, then support is provided for the wrist and forearm, but the wrist and forearm are positioned too low causing non-neutral posture
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the height parameter of the wrist and forearm rest to position it at the correct ergonomic level, allowing the wrist and forearm to maintain a neutral posture. This directly addresses the problem of current rests positioning the wrist too low by adjusting the vertical position parameter of the support surface.
2Ease of operation
If current wrist and forearm rests are used, then support is provided for the wrist and forearm, but direct pressure is applied on the carpal tunnel canal and middle of the wrist
Solution Approach 1:
The wrist and forearm rest is segmented into distinct support zones: a first support surface for the wrist and a second support surface for the forearm. This segmentation allows each zone to be optimized independently, ensuring the wrist support does not apply pressure to the carpal tunnel while the forearm support provides separate cushioning.
Solution Approach 2:
Different portions of the rest have different structural properties tailored to local needs. The wrist support portion is designed with specific height and contour to avoid carpal tunnel pressure, while the forearm support portion has different characteristics optimized for forearm comfort. This local differentiation resolves the contradiction between providing wrist support and avoiding carpal tunnel compression.
3Ease of operation
If integrated wrist and forearm rests are used, then support is provided for the arm, but the arm goes unsupported during transitions between input devices
Solution Approach 1:
The wrist and forearm rest is designed to provide continuous support throughout the entire typing cycle, including during transitions between keyboard and mouse usage. The extended forearm support portion ensures the arm remains supported even when the hand moves to the mouse, eliminating gaps in support and maintaining ergonomic positioning throughout the duration of computer use.
4Ease of operation
If current wrist and forearm rests are used, then support is provided for the wrist and forearm, but stress is transferred to the user's shoulders
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the vertical height parameter of the wrist and forearm rest to the correct ergonomic level, which realigns the wrist and forearm in a neutral position. This parameter change prevents the downward slope that currently causes shoulder stress by eliminating the need for the shoulder to compensate for poor wrist positioning.
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 device maintains a neutral wrist and forearm posture, reduces pressure on the carpal tunnel, and supports the arm during transitions, thereby alleviating musculoskeletal stress and discomfort.
Implementation Method 1
a base having a bottom surface for engaging the supporting surface, wherein an opposing top surface of the base is rotatably connected to the base end
Data Source
AI summary
A support device adapted for improving the ergonomic support for the arm and wrist and forearm of a user of computer-related input devices is provided. The support device may include a body interconnecting a base to two spaced apart wing supports oriented at latitudinal and longitudinal support angles relative to the supporting surface on which the devices slides. Each wing provides waterfall edges along its periphery. The void between the wing supports, the supine triangular shape, and the waterfall edges facilitates a more neutral position of the forearm and wrist supporting between the two wing supports, reducing pressure points there along, and avoiding direct pressure to the carpal tunnel canal and mid-forearm regions that house anatomical structures that may be impacted by high pressures. The latitudinal support angle can be adjusted.