"Soft-goods type, custom ""in situ"" formable back support"
US5437614A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 16, 1993 |
| Grant date | Aug 1, 1995 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 16, 2013 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61F5/022
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A soft-goods type, custom "in situ" formable back brace for supporting a weakened or injured back and/or neck is disclosed having hardenable components which conform to the unique configuration of a patient's torso. An initially flexible rear torso component, generally extending circumferentially around the patient's back, is releasably coupled to the torso using a plurality of Velcro-type securing straps. Alternatively, an initially flexible front torso component in combination with a rear component may be releasably coupled to a patient's torso. Once properly secured, liquid, preferably water, may be introduced into each component to activate the activatable, hardenable material encapsulated therein. Each component may be further comprised of a plurality of panels or pads with elasticized, resilient material interposing adjacent panels. The panels or pads may be permanently or removably integrated into each torso component. Additional supporting strut members may be provided to isolate and minimize upper neck and head movement for patient's having severe neck and/or back injuries. The hardenable components may be activated by introduction of water or other suitable liquid through…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.