Enhanced Compression Braces with Removable Hot/Cold Pack Modules
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
The present inventive concept relates to compression braces with removable hot/cold pack modules, designed to provide improved therapeutic benefits, ease of use, and versatility. The innovative magnetic attachment mechanism and temperature control unit enable users to optimize treatment and recovery.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent, 'Compression braces with removable hot/cold packs,' provides a basic framework for compression braces with integrated hot/cold packs. However, the original design has limitations, including cumbersome pack replacement and limited temperature control. The present inventive concept addresses these limitations by introducing a removable hot/cold pack module with a magnetic attachment mechanism, allowing for easy replacement and recharging, and integrating a temperature control unit for precise temperature adjustment.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The enhanced compression brace system consists of a compression sleeve with a removable hot/cold pack module secured via a magnetic attachment mechanism. The module comprises a pair of corresponding magnets, one attached to the brace and the other attached to the module, allowing for easy detachment and reattachment. The system also includes a temperature control unit integrated into the module, enabling precise temperature adjustment for optimal therapeutic benefit. The compression sleeve is designed to be lightweight, breathable, and adjustable, providing optimal compression support for athletic use. The inventive concept further comprises a method for treating joint injuries using the compression brace system, involving the application of the removable hot/cold pack module to the affected joint area and adjusting the compression level to optimize therapeutic benefit.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The present inventive concept introduces a novel magnetic attachment mechanism, enabling easy replacement and recharging of the hot/cold pack module. The integration of a temperature control unit provides precise temperature adjustment, which is not found in the original patent. These advancements constitute a significant inventive step, enhancing the functionality and usability of compression braces with removable hot/cold packs.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept may include varying the design of the magnetic attachment mechanism, such as using different magnet configurations or materials. The temperature control unit could be implemented using different technologies, such as thermoelectric cooling or heating elements. Additionally, the compression sleeve could be designed for specific athletic applications, such as knee, elbow, or shoulder braces.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The enhanced compression brace system has significant commercial potential in the athletic and medical industries. The system's ease of use, versatility, and improved therapeutic benefits make it an attractive solution for athletes, physical therapists, and medical professionals. The market for compression braces is expected to grow, driven by increasing awareness of the importance of injury prevention and recovery.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61F5/0125 |
| A | A61 | A61F7/02 |
| A | A61 | A61F2005/0144 |
| A | A61 | A61F2005/0197 |
| A | A61 | A61F2007/0041 |
| A | A61 | A61F2007/0042 |
| A | A61 | A61F2007/0043 |
| A | A61 | A61F2007/023 |
| A | A61 | A61F2007/0226 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Medical device design, specifically orthopedic compression braces and therapeutic support systems with thermal management capabilities, requiring expertise in materials science, biomechanical engineering, and medical device manufacturing
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A biomedical engineer or medical device designer with 3-5 years of experience in orthopedic support systems, familiar with materials selection, attachment mechanisms, and thermal therapy applications
Obviousness Rationale
A person of ordinary skill would recognize that the magnetic attachment mechanism and temperature control unit represent predictable variations of the source patent's compression brace design. The core functional elements of a compression sleeve with removable thermal pack are fundamentally preserved, with the magnetic attachment being a known alternative to existing fastening methods. The temperature control integration represents an incremental technical improvement that would be apparent to a skilled practitioner seeking to enhance therapeutic effectiveness.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,449 |
|---|---|
| Title | Compression braces with removable hot/cold packs |
| Assignee(s) | Preferred Prescription, INC. |