HK1065243B - Lifting mechanism for a traction device - Google Patents

Description

Lifting mechanism for a traction device

Field of the invention

The present invention relates to the field of medical devices, and more particularly, to a lifting mechanism for a traction device.

Background of the invention

The human body can be used for treating diseases caused by spinal injury, especially diseases related to lower back. Most people do not move during some of their lives because of lower back afflictions, which have become the second leading cause of pain only after headache. Incurring relative relief of spinal injuries and supporting musculature, and mitigating the effects of even minor injuries, only adds to the overall severity of the problem of dealing with spinal injuries. The form of treatment varies over the long period of time that the patient experiences pain. 80% of lower back patients will recover in more than six weeks with minimal disturbance. However, the remaining 20% of patients pose the greatest challenges and costs to medical systems. After the acute phase, a surgical treatment or more invasive surgical forms may be selected. However, a minimally or atraumatic surgical approach may be selected by the patient prior to selecting the surgical approach.

Summary of The Invention

In accordance with the present invention, a number of disadvantages and problems associated with previous medical devices for treating spinal disorders have been substantially reduced or eliminated.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, an ambulatory traction device includes a first support configured to be positioned on a user's body and a second support configured to be positioned on the user's body spaced apart from the first support such that a joint of the user is positioned between the first and second supports. The traction device also includes one or more lifting mechanisms connecting the two supports that exert a reduced pressure on the joint when the two supports are positioned on the user's body. Each lifting mechanism includes a sleeve having a generally elliptical cross-section, and a piston configured to move within the sleeve in response to an increase in pressure within the sleeve.

Certain embodiments of the invention may provide one or more technical advantages. For example, some embodiments provide a traction device that is worn on a user's body to relieve pressure on the user's spine by transferring the weight of the user's upper body away from the spine to the user's hips. In particular, the relief of the pressure caused by the device may be concentrated in the lower spine of the user, a location where injuries are usually caused by pressure. The traction device may also provide stabilization of the torso to prevent additional pressure on the spine due to bending and lifting of the user. Moreover, the traction devices of the present invention may be used in conjunction with other joints of the body, such as the knee or neck. Furthermore, particular embodiments provide a traction device that is ambulatory, meaning that the device is portable and wearable during the user's daily activities. The movable nature of the device provides greater convenience to the user, and the device has little impact on the user's daily life compared to existing treatment techniques.

The use of one or more lifting mechanisms connected between two support belts that wrap around the user's torso and hips (or around other parts of the body if used in connection with other joints) may exert reduced pressure on the user's spine (or other joints). In some embodiments, the lifting mechanisms are piston-type lifting mechanisms that have a substantially elliptical cross-section (unlike conventional piston-type lifters, which have a circular cross-section). This substantially elliptical cross-section reduces the profile of the lifting mechanism against the user's body, and therefore, while the user is performing various tasks of daily life, its interference with the environment is minimized. The low profile is more aesthetically appealing and provides greater comfort to the user than a similar cylindrical lifting mechanism. This low profile also makes the traction device easier to wear inside other clothing, if desired. Other technical advantages may be readily apparent to one skilled in the art from the following figures, descriptions, and claims.

Brief description of the drawings

To provide a more complete understanding of the present invention and features and advantages thereof, reference is now made to the following descriptions taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1A is a schematic diagram illustrating a spinal traction device in accordance with the teachings of the present invention, wherein the device is worn by a user;

FIG. 1B is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the spinal traction device of FIG. 1A, illustrating exemplary locations of lifting mechanisms associated with the traction device;

FIG. 1C is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the spinal traction device of FIG. 1B, illustrating exemplary locations for another embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a schematic drawing showing in detail portions of the top and bottom belts of the spinal traction device of FIG. 1A;

FIG. 3 is a schematic drawing in partial section showing in detail one of the lifting mechanisms of the spinal traction device of FIG. 1A;

figures 4A-4D illustrate various views of an example lifting mechanism for a spinal traction device;

FIG. 5 illustrates an example of a valve assembly of the spinal traction device;

figures 6A and 6B illustrate an example of a harness included within a support belt of a spinal traction device; and

FIG. 7 illustrates another example back strap included in a support strap of a spinal traction device;

FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram illustrating a portion of the spinal traction device of FIG. 1, showing portions of one of the bands;

FIG. 9A is a top view of the support belt and length adjustment mechanism combination in a first, unadjusted position;

FIG. 9B is a top view of the combination of FIG. 9A, in an adjusted position; and

fig. 9C is a top view of the support belt after removal of the adjustment mechanism of fig. 9A and 9B.

Description of the embodiments

Figure 1A is a schematic diagram illustrating a spinal traction device 10 worn by a user 12. In this embodiment, traction device 10 exerts a decompressive force on the user's spine that transfers body weight from the upper torso to the buttocks of user 12 and prevents compression and aggravation of the lower back spine condition. In one embodiment, the unloading force is particularly concentrated in the lower spine, rather than across the entire spine. This result is achieved by being pushed up and down on the lower spine by the relieved pressure. These relieved pressures are created by traction device 10 (as described below). In other embodiments, traction device 10 may also be modified to create tension in other parts of the body, such as on the femur.

Spinal traction device 10 includes an upper support band 14 and a lower support band 16; however, in other embodiments, the relieved pressure may be created by various combinations of one or more bands. Support belts 14 and 16 may be formed in any suitable manner that allows positioning on the user's body and transmits the relieved pressure to user 12. Example details of one embodiment of belts 14 and 16 are described in more detail below with respect to FIG. 2.

Spinal traction device 10 also includes one or more lifting mechanisms 18. Lifting mechanism 18 creates a relieved compressive or tensile force that is transmitted to the spine of user 12 through support belts 14 and 16. The lifting mechanism 18 is connected to a valve assembly (fig. 5) to control pressurization of the lifting mechanism 18. In one embodiment, the lifting mechanism 18 is connected to the valve assembly in series; however, they may also be connected to the valve assembly in a parallel or other suitable manner. The lifting mechanism 18 is disposed in a pocket 19 attached to the lower support belt 16 and a pocket 21 attached to the upper support belt 14. The location of an example of the periphery of the belt 16 around the lift mechanism 18 is shown more clearly in fig. 1B and 1C. The lifting mechanism 18 is connected to the support belts 14 and 16, as will be described with reference to fig. 3. Example details relating to a particular embodiment of lift mechanism 18 are described in detail below with reference to fig. 4A-4D. However, in the illustrated embodiment, the lifting mechanism 18 is a fluid (e.g., pneumatic or hydraulic) device that generates a relieved pressure or tension via fluid pressure. The lifting mechanism 18 may also be a mechanical device. When pressurized, lifting mechanism 18 pushes up on support belt 14 and pushes down on support belt 16, which results in a reduction of the pressure on the user's spine.

A proper fit of spinal traction device 10 around the body of user 12 is important. The fitment is achieved in part by a pair of locking devices 20, one on the upper support belt 14 and one on the lower support belt 16, and a common strap 22. Common strap 22 forms a portion of upper support belt 14 and lower support belt 16 so that both belts can be uniformly adjusted simultaneously. The locking mechanism 20 includes a plurality of slots 24 and latches 26 for the locking mechanism 20 at the appropriate locations as desired. However, the locking mechanism 20 may be replaced by any suitable mechanism for locking the straps 14 and 16 into the desired position, such as a snap lock, hook and loop type fasteners (Velcro), and other suitable fasteners. Common belt 22 is described in more detail below with reference to FIG. 2.

In operation, user 12 places spinal traction device 10 at his waist and adjusts straps 14 and 16 with common strap 22 to achieve the desired tension about his waist. The common belt 22 facilitates obtaining a uniform tightness of the two support belts 14 and 16. The user may then lock the straps 14 and 16 into place using the locking mechanism 26.

To apply tension to the spine of user 12, a fluid is supplied to lifting mechanisms 18 to cause lifting mechanisms 18 to expand pushing belt 14 upward and belt 16 downward. Because support belts 14 and 16 are tightly wrapped around the body of user 12, this relieved pressure is transmitted to the user's body and, therefore, his spine. This relieves the stresses acting on the spine.

Traction device 10 may be carried and worn during daily activities. Thus, the device 10 may be adapted for use at home, at work, for entertainment, or during travel, as convenient as the user 12. Thus, the user may be more likely to be subject to the treatment instructions of the instruction manual than if the user 12 were required to travel to a clinic for treatment. The amount of force generated by the lifting mechanism 18 may be controlled by the patient via a manual inflation device or valve assembly (as will be described in detail in connection with fig. 5), or by another suitable control device. In one embodiment, the pressure relief created in lifting mechanism 18 is approximately 50% of the weight of user 12. A pressure relief valve (not expressly shown) may be provided to prevent over-inflation. Such a pressure relief valve is positioned so that user 12 can momentarily relieve pressure within lifting mechanism 18 at any time. The spinal device 10 may also stabilize the torso while still allowing flexibility to be maintained. This stability prevents additional stress on the spine due to bending and lifting.

FIGS. 1B and 1C are partial cross-sectional views taken through lines "1B-1B" and "1C-1C" of FIG. A, respectively, to more clearly illustrate the location of an example of lifting mechanism 18. Fig. 1B illustrates the location of an example lifting mechanism 18 for normally relieving pressure on the spine. As shown, four lifting mechanisms are used, two of which are generally in the back region of user 12 and two of which are located toward the front of user 12. This configuration allows for reduced pressure to be applied to the spine while allowing user 12 to perform daily operations without undue hindrance. FIG. 1C illustrates a different configuration that, in addition to placing the spine of user 12 in traction, also limits side-to-side movement of user 12. This may be particularly effective for treating scoliosis. Scoliosis is a pathology in which the spine curves in one or both directions in the thoracic and/or lumbar regions. The vertebrae of the spine are twisted or tilted, which causes the ribs to protrude to one side. By positioning lifting mechanisms 18 toward the side of user 12, side-to-side movement of user 12 may be limited and a straightening force may be applied to the spine to treat the effects of scoliotic spinal curvature. Although four lifting mechanisms are shown in fig. 1B and 1C, any suitable number of lifting mechanisms may be used.

Fig. 2 is a schematic view of spinal traction device 10 showing additional details of lower support band 16 and upper support band 14. Upper support belt 14 is comprised of a back belt 28 and a pair of front belts 30. Portions of the front belt 30 are not shown in fig. 2 for clarity. Front belt 30 is formed with a plurality of apertures 32 that allow for selective sizing of upper belt 14. Back belt 28 includes a plurality of slots 35 that engage front belt 30 at the junction, and an aperture 34 that engages apertures 32 of front belt 30. Front belt 30 and back belt 28 may be locked together by, for example, rivets or other connectors (not clearly shown in FIG. 2) placed through desired holes 32 and 34 in front belt 30. Around front belt 30 and back belt 28 is an outer sleeve 31. Portions of the sleeve 31 are cut away in fig. 2. Outer sleeve 31 provides an attractive appearance to support belt 14 and also provides a comfortable cushion for the user. Outer sleeve 31 may be formed of fabric or other suitable material and may be formed in multiple sections to facilitate adjustment for selective access to back belt 28 and front belt 30.

Back belt 28 includes a strap 202 that is intermeshed between two plates 204. Back belt 28 is a generally rigid member in the direction of the support being formed (up or down in this example) and is disposed within outer sleeve 31 of belt 14. As described in detail below, the force applied to upper back belt 28 from lifting mechanism 18 is transmitted to outer sleeve 31 and, thus, to the spine of user 12. The front belt 30 is also generally rigid in the direction of support and may be formed of plastic or other suitable material.

Belt 202 and plates 204 are described in detail below with reference to fig. 6A and 6B; however, certain portions are described herein as being associated with relieved pressure on belts 14 and 16. The plate 204 positioned outside the belt 202 is formed with a groove 36. Slot 36 is attached to portions of lifting mechanism 18 and facilitates the transfer of the decompressive forces from lifting mechanism 18 to upper belt 14. The plate 204 is generally rigid in the direction of support so that it can transmit the forces created by the lifting mechanism "pushing" it. Plate 204 may be formed of any suitable material that allows for the transfer of force from lifting mechanism 18 to belt 14; however, in one embodiment, the plate 204 is formed of plastic.

The lower support belt 16 is similar to the upper support belt 14. Lower support belt 16 includes a back belt 40 and a pair of front belts 42. Back belt 40 and front belt 42 are substantially similar to upper back belt 28 and front belt 30 and include a plate 44 and a strap 46; however, the plate 44 is formed with the slot 37 facing downwardly rather than upwardly so that force is transmitted in a downward direction from the lifting mechanism 18.

Shown clearly in fig. 2 is a common belt 26. Common strap 26 connects upper strap 14 and lower strap 16 to collectively adjust the spinal traction device about the user. In this example, a hook and loop type connector 48 (commonly referred to as "Velcro (TM)") is provided on the common strap 26 to secure the strap 26 in place.

One of the holes 32 in the front belt 30 is indicated by the numeral "50"; one of the holes 32 in the front belt 42 is indicated by reference numeral "52," which is also shown in FIG. 3.

Fig. 3 is a schematic view of portions of spinal traction device 10, partially in section, showing additional details of the connection of lifting mechanism 18 to upper and lower straps 14, 16. The figure may be oriented with respect to figure 2 by holes 50 and 52. As shown, front belt 30 includes a slot 56, similar to slot 36, while front belt 42 is formed with a slot 57, similar to slot 37. Lifting device 18 is attached between belts 14 and 16 by slots 56 and 57 of front belts 30, 42, respectively, and by clamp 132 of lifting mechanism 18. Access to the slots 36 and 37 is provided through the pockets 21 and 19 (as shown in fig. 1A). Additional details of the lift mechanism 18 are described in detail below in conjunction with fig. 4A through 4D.

In operation, to apply a relieved pressure between upper belt 14 and lower belt 16, lifting mechanisms 18 are pressurized to create an upward force, indicated by reference numeral "60", acting on the lower ends of lifting mechanisms 18. This in turn generates forces in the opposite direction within the belt 30 and the front belt 42. Lifting mechanism 18 may also be coupled between belts 14 and 16 at slots 36 and 37 in plates 204 and 44. Thus, the restraining action of lifting mechanism 18 results in a reduced pressure being applied to the spine of user 12 by belts 14 and 16. Additional details of examples of suitable lifting mechanisms 18 will be described in detail below in conjunction with fig. 4A-4D.

Fig. 4A-4D illustrate various views of an example lifting mechanism 18 for a spinal or other traction device 10. Fig. 4A is an exploded view of lifting mechanism 18, fig. 4B and 4C are different perspective views of assembled lifting mechanism 18, and fig. 4D is a side view of lifting mechanism 18 showing internal components of lifting mechanism 18 in phantom. Although a lifting mechanism is described, it should be understood that other forms of support mechanisms may be used. For example, a static support mechanism (different from the lifting mechanism 18) may be used that does not extend but only provides static support. As described above, one or more lifting mechanisms 18 may be connected between support belts 14 and 16 or any other suitable support (e.g., between pins positioned on either side of a joint on a user's bone) and extend to provide separation of support belts 14 and 16, thus reducing the pressure exerted on one or more vertebrae of a user's spine (or any other suitable joint). As shown, the example of the lifting mechanism 18 has a substantially elliptical cross-section. The term "elliptical" is meant to include all non-circular ellipses, ovals, "egg" shapes, "bean" shapes, and any other similar shapes. When lifting mechanism 18 is positioned as part of traction device 10, the generally elliptical cross-section provides greater comfort to the user and has a lower profile (lower profile) that is against the user's body than a similar lifting mechanism having a cylindrical cross-section. In addition, other shapes that conform to the user's body may be used. However, as mentioned above, the use of such a substantially elliptical or other non-circular cross-section presents some problems not associated with a cylindrical cross-section.

The lifting mechanism 18 includes a piston having a piston rod 102 and a flange 104 that is inserted into a sleeve 106. In the illustrated embodiment, piston rod 102, flange 104, and sleeve 106 each have a generally elliptical cross-section. However, any other suitable shape may be used for one or more of these components. For example, flange 104 and sleeve 106 may have a generally elliptical cross-section, while piston rod 102 may have a circular or other suitable cross-section. The flange 104 is configured to conform to the inside of the sleeve 106 and to slide within the sleeve 106. A piston ring 108 may be positioned around the periphery of flange 104 to form a seal between flange 104 and sleeve 106. A groove 110 may be formed on the periphery of flange 104 to provide a ring seat for piston ring 108. Piston ring 108 may have a rectangular cross-section, a circular cross-section, or any other suitable type of cross-section. Further, piston ring 108 may be made of rubber or any other suitable material.

Since sleeve 106 has a non-circular cross-section, if the interior of sleeve 106 is pressurized to effect movement of piston rod 102 (as described below), stresses will develop in sleeve 106 and a tendency for sleeve 106 to deform into a cylindrical shape will occur. This condition is undesirable because it can induce leakage between sleeve 106 and piston ring 108. Accordingly, the sleeve 106 may be made of a metal such as aluminum or other suitable material to resist these stresses and prevent such deformation. In an example embodiment, sleeve 106 has openings at both ends so that an airtight chamber is not formed into which air or any other suitable fluid may enter to cause movement of piston rod 102. Thus, to form an airtight chamber, a housing is formed around the sleeve 106. The housing includes a housing bottom 112 that fits over one end of the sleeve 106 and a housing top 114 that fits over the other end of the sleeve 106 and contacts the housing bottom 112. Housing top 114 also provides an opening 116 through which piston rod 102 may extend. A housing ring 118 may be inserted into housing bottom 112 to provide a seal between sleeve 106 and housing bottom 112 to prevent or reduce leakage of air or other fluids from sleeve 106. The lower edge 120 of the housing top 114 may be ultrasonically welded to the upper edge 122 of the housing bottom 112, but the housing bottom 112 and the housing top 114 may be joined in any other suitable manner to form a substantially airtight enclosure. The housing bottom 112 and the housing top 114 may be made of plastic or any other suitable material. Additionally, housing top 114 may be used when a connection between sleeve 106 and housing bottom 112 is not feasible due to the use of different materials to manufacture sleeve 106 and housing bottom 112.

In certain embodiments, piston rod 102 may be hollow such that a lumen 124 extends from one end of piston rod 102 to the other. The cavity 124 extends through the flange 104 such that air or other fluid within the sleeve 106 may move through the piston rod 102 within the cavity 124. Thus, a piston rod top 126 is attached to the end of piston rod 102 opposite flange 104 to prevent the air or other fluid from escaping from sleeve 106 through piston rod 102. Piston rod top 126 may be ultrasonically welded to piston rod 102 or attached to the piston rod using any other suitable technique. With respect to piston rod 102, piston rod top 126 may be made of plastic or any other suitable material. In certain embodiments, cavity 124 is provided such that a spring 128 or other suitable resilient member may be used to connect housing bottom 112 and piston rod top 126. Spring 128 provides a force to retract piston rod 102 into sleeve 106 when sufficient air or other fluid pressure is not present within sleeve 106 to balance the retraction force generated by spring 128, such as when traction device 10 is not in use. Housing bottom 112 and piston rod top 126 each include a hook point 130 that may be used to attach spring 128 to housing bottom 112 and piston rod top 126. Alternatively, any other suitable attachment point located at any other suitable location may be used. Housing bottom 112 and piston rod top 126 may also include clips 132, as described above, for attaching lifting mechanism 18 to support belts 14 and 16.

As shown in fig. 4C, the housing base 112 also includes one or more inlets 134 through which air or other suitable fluid may be pumped into the sleeve 106 and released from the sleeve 106. For example, the inlet 134 may be configured to: a hose from a corresponding pump may be connected to inlet 134. With such a pump, air or other fluid may be pumped into sleeve 106 until sufficient pressure is exerted against bottom surface 136 of flange 104 (shown in FIG. 4A) and against piston rod top 126, causing flange 104 to move away from housing bottom 112 and thus piston rod 102 to extend from housing top 114 if piston rod 102 is hollow. Air or any other suitable fluid may be pumped into sleeve 106 through inlet 132 until piston rod 102 is in a suitable position. As described above, a plurality of lifting mechanisms 18 may be coupled between support belts 14 and 16, and the piston rod 102 of each lifting mechanism 18 may be extended so that the appropriate spacing between support belts 14 and 16 may be maintained and an appropriate force applied to cause the user's spine or other joint to be in traction. Once the proper position and force is achieved, pressure is maintained on flange 104 (and piston rod top 126, if appropriate) to provide support to the user and reduce pressure on the user's spine or other joint.

Fig. 5 illustrates an exemplary valve assembly 150 of traction device 10. Valve assembly 150 may be used to connect a plurality of lifting mechanisms 18 to a pump used to pump air or other suitable fluid to lifting mechanisms 18. For example, multiple lifting mechanisms 18 of traction device 10 may be connected to a pump in series or in parallel via suitable connection inlets 134. For example, a hose may be connected between valve assembly 150 (as described below) and first inlet 134 of first lift mechanism 18. Another hose may be connected between the second inlet 134 of the first lifting mechanism 18 (as shown in fig. 4C, each lifting mechanism 18 may have multiple inlets 134) and the first inlet 134 of the second lifting mechanism 18. This pattern may continue until each lifting mechanism 18 is connected to either another lifting mechanism 18 or to valve assembly 150. A pump may then be connected to valve assembly 150, as described above, to pump air or other fluid to each of lifting mechanisms 18. Alternatively, each lifting mechanism 18 may be individually connected to valve assembly 150, or subsets of lifting mechanisms 18 may be connected in series and then connected to valve assembly 150. For example, two front lift mechanisms 18 may be connected in series, while two back lift mechanisms 18 may be connected in series separately from front lift mechanisms 18.

Valve assembly 150 provides a point at which the various lifting mechanisms 18, regardless of how they are interconnected, can be connected to a pump. In the illustrated embodiment, valve assembly 150 is integrally formed with one of lifting mechanisms 18 of traction device 10. For example, housing 152 of valve assembly 150 may be integrally formed with housing 154 of an associated lifting mechanism (housing 154 may be used in place of housing 114, as described above). However, valve assembly 150 may be configured as a separate device that may be coupled to traction device 10 in any suitable manner.

Valve assembly 150 includes a valve plate 156 that includes a plurality of couplers 158 to which hoses may be coupled. For example, a hose from a pump may be connected to coupler 158a located in the center of plate 156. Similarly, hoses leading to one or more lifting mechanisms 18 or other devices for supplying air or other fluids thereto (e.g., a lumbar pillow attached to lower support belt 14) may be connected to couplers 158b-158 d. Any suitable number of couplers 158 may be included in valve assembly 150. Plate 156 also includes a series of holes such that each hole extends from coupler 158 through plate 156 to upper surface 160 of plate 156. Thus, air or other fluid may flow from upper surface 160 of plate 156 through the holes into the hoses connected to respective couplers 158, and vice versa. When assembled, plate 156 is positioned in the center of plunger 162 and adjacent to plunger 162 and is separated from plunger 162 by a plurality of O-rings 164 or other suitable seals. Each O-ring 164 is positioned around a respective hole of the plate 156. Plunger 162 includes a central bore 166 that extends through plunger 162 and aligns with the central bore in plate 156 (extending from coupler 158 a). Plunger 162 also includes a side hole 168 that extends through plunger 162 and is positioned a distance from the center of plunger 162 that is equal to the distance from the center of plate 156 of the holes associated with couplers 158b-158 d.

A spring 170 is positioned between the plunger 162 and an upper inner surface 172 of the housing 152. Spring 172 exerts a force on plunger 162 causing the plunger to press against plate 156 and form a seal with plate 156 (via O-ring 164). By attaching the plate 156 to the housing 152 (e.g., using one or more suitable fasteners), a hermetically sealed enclosure is formed within the top of the housing 152 above the plunger 162. The plunger 162 is connected to a valve lever 174, which is located outside of the housing 152. The lever 174 may be used to rotate the plunger 162 or to lift the plunger 162 to break the seal between the plunger 162 and the plate 156. Further, by securing the plate 156 to a lip 176 of the housing 152, an airtight enclosure is formed between the plate 156 and the plunger 172. For example, the holes 178 may be used to secure the plate 156 to the lip 176 using screws or other suitable fasteners.

When plunger 162 is in contact with plate 156, air or other fluid connected to coupler 158a from the pump may flow through plate 156 (in the hole associated with coupler 158a) and then through hole 166 of plunger 162 into the air-tight sealed enclosure above plunger 162. The air or other fluid then flows back down through the bore 168 of the plunger 162. Thereafter, where the air flows depends on where the holes 168 are positioned. Lever 174 may be used to rotate plunger 162 such that hole 168 may be aligned with a hole in plate 156 corresponding to coupler 158b, 158c, or 158 d. When hole 168 is aligned with one of these holes in plate 156, air may then flow through the hole in plate 156 to the hole attached to the corresponding coupler 58b, 158c, or 158 d. The air then flows through the corresponding hose to one or more lifting mechanisms 18 or other pressurized devices connected to the hose.

By rotating plunger 162, the devices connected to each coupler 158b-158d may repeat the process to align hole 168 with the appropriate hole in plate 156. A check valve may be included within plunger 162 and coincident with aperture 166 to prevent air or other fluid from each attached pressurizing device from returning through aperture 166 to escape through an aperture in plate 156 (corresponding to coupler 158a), such as when no pump is connected to coupler 158 a. When a user desires to release air or other fluid from each attached pressurizing device, the user may use lever 174 to lift plunger 162 off of plate 156. When this occurs, air or other fluid from each device flows from each hose connected to couplers 158b-158d through plate 156 and then back through plate 156, through a hole connected to coupler 158a (if a pump is not connected to coupler 158a) or through another suitable outlet.

Fig. 6A shows an example of back belt 28 included in support belt 14 of traction device 10 in a rear view. Back belt 28 may be connected to front belt 31 of support belt 14 using holes 32 and 34 and associated connectors, as shown in FIG. 2, with strap 202 inside plate 204 (adjacent the user's body) to accommodate lifting mechanism 18. However, it should be noted that support belt 14 may comprise a single belt that includes the features of back belt 28 and front belt 31. Back belt 28 includes a strap 202 and a plate 204. To more clearly illustrate strap 202, FIG. 6B shows strap 202 without plate 204. As described above, plate 204 includes slot 36 which is used to connect lifting mechanism 18 to support belts 14 and 16. For example, clips 132 of lifting mechanisms 18 may be inserted into slots 36 to attach lifting mechanisms 18 to support belt 14. In the example embodiment, strap 202 is connected to plate 204 at two pivots 206. Pivot 206, along with canting mechanism 208, is housed within strap 202 to move strap 202 relative to plate 204 (and, therefore, relative to lifting mechanism 18), which facilitates the fitting of support belts 14 and 16 to the user's body, as described below. Any suitable means may be used to connect strap 202 and plate 204 at pivot 206 to allow strap 202 and plate 204 to be rotatable relative to each other at pivot 206.

Strap 202 includes a first portion 210a and a second portion 210b that are coupled together using canting mechanism 208. In one embodiment, canting mechanism 208 includes two hinges 212a and 212 b. Plate 204 and canting mechanism 208 are generally positioned on the back of the user's spine when traction device 10 is worn on the user. Portion 210 generally extends from the back of the user, around the sides of the user to the front of the user. When worn in this manner, pivots 206 and hinges 212 of canting mechanism 208 conform portion 210 to the contours of the user's body, particularly the chest and pelvic regions. As a result, canting mechanism 208 may be used to more closely fit support belt 14 to users of different sizes and shapes while maintaining substantial symmetry and more effective treatment.

As shown in fig. 6A and 6B, portion 210 and canting mechanism 208 may be integrally formed. For example, portion 210 and canting mechanism 208 may be formed from a single piece of plastic, and hinge 212 may be formed by molding or cutting the plastic sheet into shape. Alternatively, any other suitable method of manufacturing these components from any suitable material may be employed. Hinges 212a and 212b may be formed by forming or cutting slots 214a and 214b, respectively, in strap 202. The term "slot" is meant to include both slots and wedges formed in strap 202. When strap 202 is attached to plate 204, if a seam is formed, the seam is pulled apart to form a wedge. As shown in FIG. 6B, slot 214 associated with hinge 212a begins at a first edge 216 of strap 102 and extends almost to a second edge 218 of strap 202. The remaining material of strap 202 between the end of slot 214a and second edge 218 of strap 202 forms hinge 212 a. In addition, a rounded or otherwise shaped cut-out may be formed at the end of slot 214a near second edge 218 to aid in the opening of slot 214 and reduce the resultant stress on hinge 212 a. Slot 214b is formed in the same manner except that slot 214b begins at second edge 218 of strap 202 and extends almost to first edge 216 of strap 202. Hinge 212b is located near first edge 216 and provides a different point of rotation than hinge 212 a. Thus, hinges 212a and 212b may be referred to generally as multi-center hinges.

If slot 214 is formed as a wedge in strap 202, the width of wedge 214 and the angle formed by the wedge at least partially determine the range of motion of portion 210. For example, the larger the size of the wedge 214, the greater the range of motion allowed, and if the slot 214 is formed as a slit, the slit opens to form a wedge of appropriate size. In addition, the positioning of hinge 212 may ensure that the movement of portions 210 is complementary. For example, if one end 220a of portion 210a is moved upward, then one end 220b of portion 210b will be moved upward by substantially the same amount. This is because upward movement of end 220a will cause slot 214a to close about hinge 212a, and this closing of hinge 214a in turn causes slot 214b to open about hinge 212b (due to the applied force and the positioning of pivot 206). This closing of hinge 214b will in turn cause an upward movement of end 220 b. Thus, canting mechanism 208 is designed to move portions 210a and 210b of strap 202 and synchronize such movement.

Referring again to FIG. 6A, depending on what portion of the user's body the harness 200 is positioned on, one or more restraints 222 may be used to restrict movement of the portion 210 in a certain direction. For example, if carrying strap 200 is positioned around a user's buttocks with the first edge of strap 202 closest to the user's legs, then limiter 222 may be positioned as shown to move portion 210 upward to accommodate the user's buttocks but not allow portion 210 to move downward past a certain point. Limiter slot 224 may be formed in strap 202 and configured and positioned such that: as portion 210 moves downward, limiter slot 224 engages limiter 222 on plate 204 and further prevents downward movement of portion 210 relative to plate 204. In this case, limiter 222 may be a pin-shaped extension that extends from plate 204 on the side of plate 204 to which strap 202 is attached. Although limiting downward movement of portion 210 is described, it should be understood that in another embodiment, limiter 222 and limiter slot 224 may be positioned to limit upward and/or downward movement of portion 210.

Fig. 7 illustrates another example back strap 300 included within support belt 14 of traction device 10. Back belt 300 includes a strap having two separate portions 302a and 302b and a plate 304 that connects tabs 302a and 302 b. For plate 204, lifting mechanism 18 is connected to plate 304. Portion 302 is connected to plate 304 at pivot 306 such that portion 302 can move independently of plate 304. Harness 300 also includes a canting mechanism 308. However, unlike canting mechanism 208 of FIGS. 6A and 6B, canting mechanism 308 is implemented using a series of gears. In one embodiment, these gears include belt gears 310a and 310b that are rotatably coupled to portions 302a and 302b, respectively, and plate gears 312a and 312b that are rotatably coupled to plate 304. Gears 310 and 312 may be made of plastic, metal, and any other suitable material.

The gears 310 and 312 may be coupled to each other in the following manner. Gear 310a is meshed with gear 312a, gear 312a is meshed with gear 312b, and gear 312b is meshed with gear 310 b. Thus, if gear 310a rotates, that rotation also causes gears 312a, 312b, and 310b to rotate. Gears 310a and 310b are coupled to portions 302a and 302b, respectively, such that when portion 302 rotates about its corresponding pivot 306, the corresponding belt gear 310 associated with portion 302 also rotates about pivot 306. Since gears 310 are coupled by gear 312, if one portion 302 moves up or down, the other portion 302 moves substantially the same distance in the same direction.

For example, if the end 312a of the portion 302a is lifted (e.g., fitted over the user's hip), then this motion will cause the gear 310a to rotate in a clockwise direction, and the degree of this rotation will correspond to the distance the lifted end 312a is lifted. Clockwise rotation of gear 310a will in turn cause gear 312a to rotate counterclockwise, while rotation of gear 312a will cause gear 312b to rotate clockwise. Finally, a clockwise rotation of gear 312b will cause a counterclockwise rotation of gear 310b, which in turn will cause end 312b of portion 302b to move upward substantially the same distance as end 312 a. Further, although not shown in FIG. 7, back belt 300 may have a limiter and limiter slot (as with back belt 200), as described above with reference to FIGS. 6A and 6B, that limits movement of straps 302a and 302B in one or more directions. Moreover, although two example canting mechanisms are described that facilitate manipulation of the support belt 14 to fit the contours of the user's body while maintaining substantial symmetry, any other suitable mechanism may be used and is included within the scope of the present invention.

Fig. 8 is a schematic diagram illustrating a portion of upper support belt 14 of traction device 10 of fig. 1, showing the kinematic relationship between front belts 30a, 30b and back belt 28. Front belts 30a and 30b may be adjusted relative to back belt 28 to properly fit the user. Adjustment of front belts 30a and 30b relative to back belt 28 is referred to as a macro adjustment because additional adjustments may be made via latches 24 and 26 and common strap 22. The lower belt 16 may be adjusted in a similar manner.

In the illustrated embodiment, back belt 28 is formed with a pair of apertures 32 to intermesh and couple with one of apertures 33 formed in front belts 30a and 30 b. The use of holes 32 and 33 may sometimes allow for proper adjustment of front portions 30a and 30b so that the user can tighten 30a and 30b and increase the equal distance from both sides; however, it is often difficult to ensure that the front belts 30a and 30b have elongated the same number of holes 33. Furthermore, in embodiments that do not employ holes 32 and 33, such as in the embodiment of back belt 28 that employs clips or other suitable attachment mechanisms to attach front belts 30a and 30b, it is often difficult to lengthen belt 14 from both sides by an equal length. If upper belt 14 is not lengthened equally from both sides, this may skew the position of lifting mechanism 18 to an undesirable position. Thus, an adjustment mechanism is provided to facilitate elongation of belt 14 to the proper size, but still maintain the proper orientation of lifting mechanisms 18. An example embodiment of such a mechanism is described below in conjunction with fig. 9A through 9C.

Fig. 9A is a top view of a belt 402 incorporating an adjustment mechanism 404 according to the principles of the present invention. The strap 402 may be similar to the upper and lower straps 14, 16 and includes front portions 406a and 406b that may be connected to a back portion 408. The strap 402 is elongated by simultaneously stretching the front portions 406a and 406b, thereby pulling the front portions away from the back portion. As described above, it is often difficult to lengthen the front portions 406a and 406b equally apart to maintain a desired orientation around the user's body. This bias can result in an improper fit of the belt and an improper force on the user when utilizing the lifting mechanism 18. Thus, an adjustment mechanism 404 is provided. Adjustment mechanism 404 includes a strap 409 having ends 410 and 412 connected to front portions 406a and 406b, respectively. As used herein, the term "end" generally refers to the opposite portion of strap 409; however, ends 412 and 414 are not required to be terminal ends of strap 410. The ends 412 and 414 may be connected to the front portions 406a and 406b, respectively, by any suitable means, such as snap-fit combinations 414, 426 and 416, 428. Adjustment mechanism 408 also includes a clip 420 that is attached to back belt 408 via snap-lock assemblies 424 and 434. Clip 420 includes rollers or bars 422 that guide strap 409 along back belt 408. A hook and loop material commonly referred to as Velcro (trade name Velcro) is formed on strap 409 between rollers 422 and is indicated by reference numeral 418. Strap 409 may also include the hook and loop material on additional portions thereof. The operation of the adjustment mechanism 408 will be described with reference to fig. 9B.

FIG. 9B is a top view of the belt and adjustment mechanism 408 and belt 402 of FIG. 9A, showing the belt 402 in an adjusted position. As shown, the front portions 406a and 406b have been drawn together (as indicated by reference numeral 448), thereby increasing the length of the belt 402. Pulling front portions 406a and 406b together necessarily pulls strap 409 and hook and loop portion 418 along with it. Doing so separates hook and loop portion 418 from each other, causing strap 409 to be pulled equally from sides 406a and 406 b. This ensures that the resultant belt 402 structure maintains the proper orientation for the lifting mechanism, such as described above. Front belts 406a, 406b are then secured to back belt 408 by rivets or other suitable connectors 450 and 452.

Fig. 9C is a top view of the belt 402 shown in fig. 9A and 9B after removal of the adjustment mechanism 404. After the band 402 is properly adjusted, as shown in FIG. 9B, the adjustment mechanism 404 can be disassembled at the ends 410 and 412 and the clip 420, leaving the device as shown in FIG. 9C. In this way, a macroscopic adjustment of the belt 402 can be achieved, which ensures a proper orientation of the associated lifting mechanism, while the fitting or fine adjustment of the belt can be performed by means of the common belt 22 and the locking device 20.

While several embodiments have been described, numerous changes, substitutions, variations, alterations, and modifications may be suggested to one skilled in the art, and it is intended that the present invention encompass all such changes, substitutions, variations, alterations, and modifications as falling within the spirit and scope of the appended claims.

Claims (25)

1. An ambulatory traction device, comprising:

a first support configured to be positioned on a user's body;

a second support spaced from the first support and configured to be positioned on the user's body such that a joint of the user is positioned between the first and second supports; and

one or more lifting mechanisms coupled to the supports, the lifting mechanisms operable to apply a decompressive force to the joint when the supports are positioned on the user's body, each lifting mechanism comprising:

a sleeve having a generally elliptical, non-circular cross-section and operable to contain a fluid; to be provided with

And

a piston configured to move within the sleeve in response to an increase in fluid pressure within the sleeve.

2. The traction device recited in claim 1, wherein the traction device is a mobile spinal traction device, the supports are support belts, and the joint comprises at least a portion of the user's spine.

3. The traction device recited in claim 1, wherein the piston includes a generally elliptical, non-circular flange adapted to seal the sleeve; the lift mechanism further includes a housing conforming to the sleeve, the housing preventing the flange from exiting the sleeve, the housing and the flange collectively forming a fluid-tight enclosure.

4. The traction device recited in claim 3, wherein the sleeve is formed of metal and the housing is formed of plastic.

5. The traction device recited in claim 3, wherein:

the piston comprises a piston rod; and

the housing defines an opening through which the piston rod is movable, but through which the flange cannot move.

6. The traction device recited in claim 3, wherein the housing includes one or more inlets positioned such that fluid can be pumped through the inlets into the fluid-tight enclosure.

7. The traction device recited in claim 1, wherein the piston includes a flange adapted to seal the sleeve; the lift mechanism further includes a piston ring configured to surround a perimeter of the flange to facilitate forming a fluid seal between the flange and the sleeve.

8. The traction device recited in claim 1, wherein the piston defines a chamber fluidly connected to an interior of the sleeve and extending through the piston.

9. The traction device recited in claim 8, wherein the lift mechanism further includes a resilient member positioned within the chamber and coupled to the piston, the resilient member being operable to retract the piston in response to a decrease in fluid pressure within the sleeve.

10. The traction device recited in claim 9, wherein the resilient member includes a spring.

11. A lift mechanism for a mobile traction device, the lift mechanism coupled between two supports of the traction device such that a joint of a user is positioned between the two supports, the lift mechanism operable to apply a decompressive force to the joint when the supports are positioned on the user's body, the lift mechanism comprising:

a sleeve having a generally elliptical, non-circular cross-section and operable to contain a fluid; and

a piston is configured to move within the sleeve in response to an increase in fluid pressure within the sleeve.

12. The lift mechanism of claim 11, wherein the mobile distraction instrument is a mobile spinal distraction instrument; the support is a support belt; the joint includes at least a portion of a user's spine.

13. The lift mechanism of claim 11, wherein the piston includes a generally elliptical, non-circular flange adapted to seal against the sleeve; the lift mechanism further includes a housing conforming to the sleeve, the housing preventing the flange from exiting the sleeve, the housing and the flange collectively forming a fluid-tight enclosure.

14. The lift mechanism of claim 13, wherein the sleeve is made of metal and the housing is made of plastic.

15. The lift mechanism of claim 13, wherein:

the piston comprises a piston rod; and

the housing defines an opening through which the piston rod is movable, but through which the flange cannot move.

16. The lift mechanism of claim 13, wherein the housing includes one or more inlets positioned such that fluid can be pumped through the inlets into the fluid-tight enclosure.

17. The lift mechanism of claim 11, wherein the piston includes a flange adapted to seal against the sleeve; the lift mechanism also includes a piston ring configured to surround a perimeter of the flange to facilitate forming a fluid seal between the flange and the sleeve.

18. The lift mechanism of claim 11, wherein the piston defines a chamber fluidly connected to the interior of the sleeve and extending through the piston.

19. The lift mechanism of claim 18, further comprising a resilient member positioned within the chamber and coupled between the piston and the housing, the resilient member operable to retract the piston in response to a decrease in pressure within the sleeve.

20. The lift mechanism of claim 19, wherein the resilient member comprises a spring.

21. A lift mechanism, comprising:

a sleeve having a generally elliptical, non-circular cross-section and operable to contain a fluid;

a piston, comprising: a piston rod; and a generally elliptical, non-circular flange configured to be positioned within the interior of the sleeve and to move within the sleeve in response to fluid pressure acting on the flange, the piston rod defining a chamber fluidly connected to the interior of the sleeve and extending through the flange of the piston;

a housing conforming to the sleeve, the housing preventing the flange from exiting the sleeve, the housing defining an opening through which the piston rod is movable but through which the flange is not movable, the sleeve, the housing and the flange collectively defining a fluid-tight enclosure; and

means for retracting the piston in response to a drop in fluid pressure within the sleeve is positioned in the chamber of the piston rod and connected between the piston and the housing.

22. The lifting mechanism of claim 21,

the withdrawal means is an elastic member.

23. The lift mechanism of claim 21, wherein the sleeve is made of metal and the housing is made of plastic.

24. The lift mechanism of claim 21, wherein the housing includes one or more inlets positioned such that air can be pumped through the inlets into the fluid-tight enclosure.

25. The lift mechanism of claim 22, wherein the resilient member comprises a spring.