Orthotics having rate-responsive, stretchable devices
Inventors
Wetzel, Eric D. • Hitt, Joseph K. • Floersheim, Robert B.
Assignees
Go Xtudio LLC • United States Department of the Army
Publication Number
US-10893968-B2
Publication Date
2021-01-19
Expiration Date
2033-06-26
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Abstract
Rate-dependent, elastically-deformable devices according to various embodiments can be stretched and recovered at low elongation rates. Yet they become stiff and resistive to stretching at high elongation rates. These device can be utilized in orthotics, braces, and circulation-enhancing compression garments for the prevention of injury, promotion of personal health, and/or enhancement in human performance. The rate-responsive properties of the devices are critical performance enablers, as they allow the devices to provide a unique balance of comfort and performance that cannot be achieved with conventional, passive straps, braces, and compression garments.
Core Innovation
The invention relates to rate-dependent, elastically-deformable devices that can be stretched and recovered at low elongation rates but become stiff and resistive to stretching at high elongation rates. These devices can be incorporated into orthotic devices, braces, or circulation-enhancing compression garments, enabling performance improvements that provide a balance of comfort and function not achievable with conventional passive devices.
The problem being addressed is the widespread occurrence of musculoskeletal injuries, especially ankle, knee, and back injuries, which cause significant medical issues and lost duty time. Existing products like braces, orthotics, compression garments, and athletic tapes have limited scientific evidence supporting their effectiveness, often causing discomfort, poor user acceptance, and reduced human performance due to bulk and mechanical restrictions.
The invention aims to solve these issues by providing an orthotic device or wearable that effectively reduces the likelihood or severity of injuries without sacrificing comfort or performance. The rate-dependent devices respond differently to slow, normal motion and fast, potentially injurious motions by being compliant during low-speed movement and stiffening during rapid movement, thus protecting joints while allowing natural motion and improving human biomechanics and circulation.
Claims Coverage
The patent includes three independent claims covering rate-dependent elastically-deformable devices integrated into orthotic devices for the ankle, knee, and lower leg, each comprising specific components and configurations.
Ankle orthotic device with rate-dependent elastically-deformable device
Includes coupling elements for lower leg and foot, and at least one rate-dependent elastically-deformable device comprising an elastic-deformable confinement member, one or more filaments inside the confinement member, end effectors connected to the confinement member that couple to the filaments, and a shear-thickening fluid (STF) filling the confinement member and wetting the filaments. The orthotic is configured to resist ankle supination and/or plantarflexion.
Knee orthotic device with rate-dependent elastically-deformable device
Includes coupling elements for upper and lower leg, and at least one rate-dependent elastically-deformable device comprising an elastic-deformable confinement member, filaments, end effectors, and STF inside the confinement member. The orthotic is configured to modify walking or running by absorbing energy during knee flexion, store and release elastic energy to assist locomotion, and resist knee hyperextension.
Lower leg orthotic device enhancing blood circulation
Includes a coupling element for the lower leg and at least one rate-dependent elastically-deformable device with the same structural components as above. The device is configured to induce pressure on the lower leg to enhance blood circulation, such as during walking or running, and may include a sleeve (e.g., a sock) that contracts radially due to longitudinal tension generated by the device.
The independent claims cover orthotic devices for the ankle, knee, and lower leg incorporating rate-dependent elastically-deformable devices comprising specific structural elements including confinement members, filaments, end effectors, and shear-thickening fluids. These devices provide functional benefits tailored to resist specific joint motions, assist gait, and enhance circulation.
Stated Advantages
Provide a unique balance of comfort and performance by allowing low resistance at slow movements and high resistance at rapid motion.
Reduce likelihood and severity of injuries caused by rapid twisting and translations of limbs and joints.
Improve human biomechanics and gait efficiency by absorbing and releasing energy differently during walking and running.
Enhance blood circulation via momentary bursts of compression during muscle activation while maintaining comfort during relaxation.
Enable a compact, self-powered, robust wearable device avoiding bulky, fragile, and expensive sensor-actuator systems.
Documented Applications
Use in orthotic devices including ankle braces to resist ankle supination and/or plantarflexion.
Knee braces configured to modify walking or running gait by absorbing energy during knee flexion and releasing energy to aid locomotion.
Lower leg compression garments and orthotics to enhance blood circulation by applying dynamic compression during muscle flexure.
Braces, wraps, and straps incorporating rate-dependent, elastically-deformable devices for injury prevention and human performance enhancement.
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