Enhanced Triple Flexion Device
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
An advanced wearable device that facilitates triple flexion of the hip, knee, and ankle joints during the swing phase of walking, providing real-time feedback, improved adjustability, and enhanced safety features.
Background and Problem Solved
The original triple flexion device, while effective, has limitations in terms of adjustability, real-time feedback, and safety features. The new inventive concept addresses these limitations by incorporating sensors, modular design, and pressure-sensing systems, enabling a more efficient, safer, and personalized triple flexion assistance experience.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The enhanced triple flexion device consists of a wearable device with adjustable, high-tension elastic bands that facilitate hip, knee, and ankle flexion. The waist belt features a V-shaped design to reduce pressure on the lower back. The device incorporates sensors to monitor the user's walking pattern and adjust the elastic band tension accordingly, providing real-time feedback and optimization. A modular design with interchangeable elastic bands of varying tension and a quick-release mechanism enables easy adjustments. Additionally, a user profiling module captures individual gait patterns and generates customized elastic band tension settings for optimal flexion assistance. A pressure-sensing system detects excessive force on the user's joints and automatically adjusts the elastic band tension to prevent injury.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce novel features such as real-time feedback, modular design, and pressure-sensing systems, which are not present in the original patent. These features provide a significant improvement over the existing device, making the new inventive concept non-obvious and innovative.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the enhanced triple flexion device could include variations in the sensor technology, modular design, and pressure-sensing systems. For example, the device could utilize artificial intelligence-powered sensors to predict and adapt to changes in the user's gait pattern. The modular design could be modified to accommodate different types of elastic bands or materials. The pressure-sensing system could be integrated with other safety features, such as alerts or warnings, to provide an additional layer of protection.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The enhanced triple flexion device has significant commercial potential in the healthcare and rehabilitation industries, particularly in the areas of physical therapy, orthotics, and prosthetics. The device could be marketed to individuals with mobility impairments, such as those with paralysis or stroke victims, as well as to athletes and individuals who require additional support during exercise or physical activity.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61F5/0113 |
| A | A61 | A61F5/0102 |
| A | A61 | A61F5/0106 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Assistive medical devices for mobility enhancement, specifically wearable orthotic systems for joint flexion assistance in patients with lower extremity mobility impairments
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A biomedical engineer or rehabilitation technology specialist with expertise in orthotic design, biomechanics, sensor integration, and adaptive assistive technologies, typically holding a master's or doctoral degree with 3-5 years of practical experience
Obviousness Rationale
A person having ordinary skill in the art would recognize that the published technical disclosure represents predictable variations and technological extensions of the source patent's core triple flexion assistance concept. The additional features of sensor integration, modular design, and personalized tension adjustment are logical engineering improvements that would be apparent to a skilled practitioner seeking to enhance the functionality of the original joint flexion device. These modifications represent incremental technological advancements using standard design techniques and readily available sensor technologies.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,395 |
|---|---|
| Title | Triple flexion device |