Orthopedic hip support with multi-positional joints
US5830168A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 18, 1997 |
| Grant date | Nov 3, 1998 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 18, 2017 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61F5/0193
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
An orthopedic hip support with multi-position joints for greater flexibility and comfort is disclosed. The hip support comprises left and right hip plates formed to mate with the hip region of the pelvis, a tightening belt and connecting front panel for adjusting the fit of the unit while supporting the abdomen, and a rear panel which connects the left and right hip plates therein forming the apparatus. Each hip plate is connected to the rear panel using a pin which permits relative rotation at the joint, and a preferred embodiment includes an elongated slot from which the pin can be positioned to expand or contract the apparatus. At mating surfaces of the rear panel and hip plates have abrasive, gritted surfaces which increase the friction between the two mating surfaces. When a compressive force is applied to the mating surfaces, such as a fastener with a wide head, the two surfaces can be securely positioned and the friction between the surfaces due to the abrasive surfaces resists slipping of the hip plates, allowing the hip plates to be positioned in a desired orientation and locked into position to provide a tailored, comfortable fit.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.