Motion controlling hinge for orthopedic brace
US7811242B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 20, 2005 |
| Grant date | Oct 12, 2010 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 16, 2027 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61F2005/0179
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A motion controlling hinge for an orthopedic brace is provided. The hinge includes an actuator secured to one arm, and at least one spring member. As the arm with the actuator pivots in a first direction, at a predetermined flexion angle the actuator applies a force to the spring member, causing the spring member to flex. The spring member exerts a force on the actuator tending to bias the actuator away from the spring member, and tending to bias the arm in a second direction opposite the first direction. In one embodiment, the spring member comprises a plurality of flat bar leaf springs. A movable fulcrum enables adjustment of a force exerted by the spring member on the actuator. A variety of differently sized adapters are securable to the actuator. The size of the adapter determines the flexion angle at which the spring member first exerts force on the actuator. In some embodiments, the hinge includes an “ON”/“OFF” switch that enables a user to disengage biasing force provided by the spring member. When the switch occupies the “OFF” position, the hinge is freely pivotable to a maximum extension angle.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.