Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a knee stabilizing device that is capable of stabilizing a user’s knee by providing support to the user during full range of motion and minimizes the discomfort causes to user during use.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The knee is a crucial hinge joint that supports weight-bearing and facilitates movement, including walking, running, and jumping. Stabilizing the knee is vital for maintaining proper alignment and function, reducing the risk of injury, and managing conditions such as arthritis or ligament damage. Effective knee stabilization enhances mobility, supports rehabilitation, and prevents overuse injuries by providing consistent support and minimizing strain on the joint. This is especially important for athletes, active individuals, and those recovering from knee injuries or surgeries, as it helps in maintaining joint integrity and overall lower limb function. Traditional knee stabilization tools typically include knee braces and supports made from materials like neoprene or fabric. These devices provide basic support and compression but often lack adjustable features, temperature control, or real-time monitoring. They offer limited adaptability and comfort compared to more advanced, automated stabilization systems.

[0003] Traditional tools are helpful, but they have their own limitations. Traditional knee stabilization tools often have several limitations. They may lack adjustability, leading to discomfort or inadequate support for varying knee sizes and movements. Manual adjustments be cumbersome and imprecise, failing to provide optimal alignment or pressure relief. Many traditional devices do not offer real-time monitoring of factors like blood flow or muscle strain, which result in ineffective or inconsistent support. Additionally, they may lack features for temperature regulation, which affect user comfort. Overall, these limitations reduce the effectiveness of traditional knee stabilization tools in providing comprehensive and adaptable support.

[0004] US5038763A discloses about a knee support device which enables a knee brace to track closely the movement of the tibia. In use, a complete knee brace comprises two of the knee support devices of this invention, one on each side of the leg. The knee support device comprises an upper and a lower elongated brace member releasably secured to a person's thigh and leg, respectively. Each of the two brace members includes pivot means and gear means, such that the gear means of the two brace members engage each other to rotate each brace member about the pivot means of the corresponding member. The upper and lower brace members on each side of the leg are connected by a link member connecting the pivot means of the two braces. The means for securing the brace members to the leg are placed such that the pivots are anterior to the knee joint, so that the rotation of the lower brace member tracks the tibia in flexion when the person and the brace members are viewed in profile. The link member and portions of the brace members remain close to the knee joint when it is bent to provide greater support and protection for the joint. US’763 relates in general to orthopedic braces and in particular to an improved injury preventing and post-injury rehabilitative knee brace, however the device lacks in maintaining a consistent and comfortable temperature to prevent overheating or cooling.

[0005] US4493316A discloses about a stabilizer to support and stabilize the knee joint of the wearer having a thigh shell and calf shell formed of high impact resistant plastic. The shells are removably mountable adjacent to the knee and conform to the contours of the leg, supporting the knee joint on both sides. The shells are joined together at their lateral and medial sides by polycentric selectable arc hinge assemblies to provide support and permit controlled natural flexion and extension of the joint. Each hinge assembly has a pair of parallel links connecting corresponding sides of the shells and rotatable about pivot pins which form the points of attachment. Meshing hinge gears positioned between the links rotate with their respective shells about the pivot pins to integrate the independent rotational movement of the shells about their pivot pin axes. A pinion stop gear meshes with and is selectably rotatable about the periphery of each hinge gear. The stop gears also rotate with the hinge gears with which they mesh so that their positioning controls the allowed integrated rotation of the shells, and thus establishes the selected amount of extension and flexion of the knee stabilizer. US’316 relates to an orthopedic support device, and particularly pertains to a polycentric knee stabilizer capable of rendering full support and stability to the knee joint at rest and in motion, however the device lacks in continuously monitoring the blood flow in the leg and make automatic adjustments to the device’s fit to ensure proper circulation of the blood.

[0006] Conventionally, many devices have been developed that relates in general to orthopedic braces and in particular to an improved injury preventing and post-injury rehabilitative knee brace as well as relates to an orthopedic support device, and particularly pertains to a polycentric knee stabilizer capable of rendering full support and stability to the knee joint at rest and in motion. However, the device lacks in maintaining a consistent and comfortable temperature to prevent overheating or cooling as well as lacks in the device lacks in continuously monitoring the blood flow in the leg and make automatic adjustments to the devices fit to ensure proper circulation of the blood.

[0007] In order to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks, there exists a need in the art to develop a device that is capable of maintaining a consistent and comfortable temperature to prevent overheating or cooling as well as continuously monitors the blood flow in the leg and make automatic adjustments to the devices fit to ensure proper circulation of the blood.

OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

[0008] The principal object of the present invention is to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art.

[0009] An object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of allowing a user to move their knee naturally, thus provides stability to the user along with comfortable movement of the knee.

[0010] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of providing a reliable method for securing the device around the user’s leg, ensuring that the device stays in place and supports the knee effectively.

[0011] Yet another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of detecting and responding to excessive muscular strain in order to promote the user to relax their muscles to avoid discomfort or injury.

[0012] The foregoing and other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become readily apparent upon further review of the following detailed description of the preferred embodiment as illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0013] The present invention relates to a knee stabilizing device that stabilizes the user’s knee by getting secured around the user leg in order to ensure that the device stays in place and supports the knee effectively.

[0014] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a knee stabilizing device comprises of a pair of rectangular plates adapted to be placed behind a knee of a user attached with one another by means of a hinge for enabling a movement of the plates along with bending of knee of the user, the plates coated with anti-microbial coating for preventing a microbial growth, a plurality of holes provided on the plates for allowing an air flow through the plates, a Peltier unit is integrated with the plates for maintaining a temperature of the plates within a predetermined range for a comfort of the user, temperature of the plates is detected by a temperature sensor embedded in the plate, a roller containing a spool of strap attached on each the plate for strapping around leg of the user, electromagnets are embedded with open ends of the straps for attaching onto the plate surface, an FBG (fiber bragg grating) sensor embedded in the plate for detecting blood flow rate in legs of the user, an EMG (electromyography) sensor provided in the plate for detecting a muscular strain in the leg to trigger the microcontroller to actuate a vibration unit installed on the plate to vibrate the plate to notify the user regarding relaxing the muscle.

[0015] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the proposed device further comprises of an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit installed on the plate and integrated with a processor for recording and processing images in a vicinity of the plate to determine movement of the knee, a microphone linked with the microcontroller provided on the plate for receiving an audio command from the user regarding strapping the plate, a touch-enabled display linked with the microcontroller is provided on the plate for enabling the user to provide touch input regarding unstrapping the plates, a battery is associated with the device for powering up electrical and electronically operated components associated with the device.

[0016] While the invention has been described and shown with particular reference to the preferred embodiment, it will be apparent that variations might be possible that would fall within the scope of the present invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with regard to the following description, appended claims, and accompanying drawings where:
Figure 1 illustrates an isometric view of a knee stabilizing device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0018] The following description includes the preferred best mode of one embodiment of the present invention. It will be clear from this description of the invention that the invention is not limited to these illustrated embodiments but that the invention also includes a variety of modifications and embodiments thereto. Therefore, the present description should be seen as illustrative and not limiting. While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative constructions, it should be understood, that there is no intention to limit the invention to the specific form disclosed, but, on the contrary, the invention is to cover all modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents falling within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the claims.

[0019] In any embodiment described herein, the open-ended terms "comprising," "comprises,” and the like (which are synonymous with "including," "having” and "characterized by") may be replaced by the respective partially closed phrases "consisting essentially of," consists essentially of," and the like or the respective closed phrases "consisting of," "consists of, the like.

[0020] As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” designate both the singular and the plural, unless expressly stated to designate the singular only.

[0021] The present invention relates to a knee stabilizing device that is capable of providing stability to the user knee by ensure that the device supports and moves with the user’s knee naturally along with providing stability while allowing for comfortable movement in order to promote the user to relax their muscles and to avoid discomfort or injury.

[0022] Referring to Figure 1, an isometric view of a knee stabilizing device is illustrated, comprising a pair of rectangular plates 101 adapted to be placed behind a knee of a user attached with one another by means of a hinge 102, a plurality of holes 103 provided on the plates 101, a Peltier unit 104 is integrated with the plates 101, a roller 105 containing a spool of strap 106 attached on each the plate, a vibration unit 107 installed on the plate, a microphone 108 provided on the plate, a touch-enabled display 109 provided on the plate.

[0023] The proposed device comprises of a pair of rectangular plates 101 designed to be placed behind a user’s knee typically serve as supports or braces. The plates 101 helps in stabilize the knee joint, providing support during activities that may stress the knee or during rehabilitation. The rectangular shape ensures a broad surface area for even distribution of pressure, while their placement behind the knee helps in maintaining proper alignment and reducing strain on the joint. A push button is integrated in the plate for activating or deactivating the device. The user manually pushes the button, when the button is pressed the electrical circuit gets completed, allowing flow of electric current to actuates a microcontroller associated with the device that regulates the working of the device.

[0024] The pair of plates 101 are connected by a hinge 102, allowing them to move together with the bending of the user's knee. The hinged connection enables the plates 101 to flex and adjust as the knee bends, providing dynamic support that aligns with the natural movement of the joint. The hinge 102 allows the plates 101 to follow the contour of the knee, maintaining support and stability while accommodating the range of motion. The design ensures that the plates 101 remain effective and comfortable during activities that involve knee movement, such as walking or exercising.

[0025] The hinge 102 joint comprises of a pair of leaf that is screwed with the surfaces of the plates 101. The leaf are connected with each other by means of a cylindrical member integrated with a shaft coupled with a DC (Direct Current) motor to provide required movement to the hinge 102. The rotation of the shaft in clockwise and anti-clockwise aids in opening and closing of the hinge 102 respectively. Hence the microcontroller actuates the hinge 102 that in turn provides movement to the plates 101 along with bending of knee of the user.

[0026] The rectangular plates 101 are coated with an anti-microbial coating to prevent microbial growth. The coating inhibits the development of bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms on the surface of the plates 101, ensuring they remain hygienic and safe for prolonged use. The anti-microbial properties help reduce the risk of infections and skin irritations, making the plates 101 more suitable for regular contact with the skin, especially in medical or rehabilitation contexts where cleanliness is crucial.

[0027] The rectangular plates 101 feature a plurality of holes 103 strategically placed to allow airflow through them. The design enhances ventilation, helping to keep the area behind the knee cool and dry. Improved air circulation reduces heat buildup and moisture, which help in preventing skin irritation and discomfort. The holes 103 also contribute to overall comfort by making the plates 101 more breathable, ensuring that the user experiences less sweating and better thermal management during use.

[0028] A temperature sensor embedded in the plate continuously monitors the temperature the temperature of the plate. The temperature sensor is composed of metal that generate an electrical voltage or resistance when experienced to temperature changes. The senor works by measuring the voltage across the diode terminals. The resistance of the diode is detected and transformed into readable values in order to measure the temperature of the laptop body. The measured temperature is then converted into electrical signal which is received by the microcontroller. The microcontroller further processes the measured temperature and in case detected temperature matches a pre-fed temperature as detected via the microcontroller.

[0029] The microcontroller actuates a Peltier unit 104 integrated with the plates 101 helps maintain the temperature of the plate within a predetermined range in order to enhancing user comfort. The Peltier unit 104 is a type of thermoelectric cooler that either heat or cool the plates 101 depending on the user’s needs. It works by transferring heat between two plates 101 using an electric current, which helps regulate the temperature of the plates 101. The integration ensures that the plates 101 remain at a comfortable temperature, preventing overheating or excessive cooling and contributing to an overall better user experience. The Peltier unit 104 also known as peltier device, thermoelectric cooler etc, is a small electronic component that utilizes the Peltier effect to create a heat flux between two materials. When an electric current flows through the junction of two dissimilar conductors, heat is absorbed at one junction (Cooling one side) while heat is released at other junction (heating the other side) in order to maintain the temperature of the plates 101.

[0030] Each plate is equipped with a roller 105 that contains a spool of strap 106. The strap 106 extends and wound around the user’s leg to secure the plates 101 in place. The roller 105 mechanism allows for easy adjustment of the strap 106 length, ensuring a snug and comfortable fit. The design provides a secure way to attach the plates 101 behind the knee, while also allowing for easy removal or adjustment as needed. The strap 106 helps to keep the plates 101 properly aligned and stable during use, enhancing their effectiveness in providing support or relief to the user.

[0031] Electromagnets are embedded at the open ends of the strap 106, allowing them to attach securely to the plate surface. When activated, the electromagnets create a magnetic force that firmly holds the strap 106 in place on the plate in order to provide a convenient and adjustable method for securing the strap 106, ensuring that they remain fixed while in use. The electromagnets easily gets engaged or disengaged, allowing for quick adjustments or removal of the strap 106 as needed, enhancing the overall functionality and user experience. The electromagnet is a specialized type of magnet in which the magnetic field is produced by an electric current wherein the electromagnet consists of wire wound into a coil. When the current is passed through the wire, it creates a magnetic field which attaches the strap 106 onto the plate surface.

[0032] Upon attaching the strap 106 onto the plate surface, an FBG (Fiber Bragg Grating) sensor embedded in the plate detects the blood flow rate in the user’s legs. The sensor measures variations in the light reflected from the fiber grating, which correlate with changes in blood flow. If the detected blood flow rate falls below a predefined threshold, the sensor triggers the microcontroller. In response, the microcontroller actuates the roller 105 to loosen the strap 106, reducing pressure on the leg to improve circulation and comfort in order to ensure that the strap 106 do not impede blood flow, maintaining optimal user health and comfort.

[0033] A microphone 108 mounted on the plate and linked with the microcontroller receive audio commands from the user related to strapping the plate. Upon receiving such a command, the microcontroller is triggered to actuate the roller 105. This functionality enables the user to control the device using voice commands, making the process of strapping the plate and activating the roller 105 more convenient and efficient. The microphone 108 contains a small diaphragm connected to a moving coil. When sound waves of the user hit the diaphragm, the coil vibrates. This causes the coil to move back and forth in the magnet's field, generating an electrical current. The signal of which are sent to the microcontroller regarding actuation of the roller 105.

[0034] The Fiber Bragg Grating (FBG) sensor works by utilizing a fiber optic cable with a periodic grating structure inscribed along its length. When light travels through this fiber, the grating reflects specific wavelengths of light based on its periodicity. Any changes in environmental conditions, such as temperature or strain, alter the grating's spacing, shifting the reflected wavelength. By measuring these shifts using an optical detector, the sensor accurately determines blood flow rate in the user legs.

[0035] Simultaneously, an EMG (electromyography) sensor integrated into the plate detects the muscular strain in the leg. The sensor measures the electrical activity generated by muscle contractions through electrodes placed on the surface of the skin. By analyzing the electrical signals, the EMG sensor identifies variations in muscle activity and strain. This data is used to monitor the level of muscular exertion and fatigue, providing insights into the user’s muscle performance and condition.

[0036] The EMG (electromyography) sensor measures electrical activity produced by skeletal muscles. It works by detecting electrical signals generated when muscles contract. Electrodes placed on the skin surface or inserted into the muscle pick up these signals. The sensor amplifies and converts the electrical signals into digital data, which is then processed to assess muscle activity and function. This data be used for various applications, including diagnosing muscle disorders, monitoring rehabilitation progress, or controlling prosthetic devices. By analyzing the patterns and intensity of muscle activity, the EMG sensor provides insights about the muscular strain in the user leg.

[0037] Upon detecting the muscular strain in the user leg, the microcontroller actuates a vibration unit 107 installed on the plate to provide a tactile alert to the user when the detected strain exceeds a threshold level. If the sensors measure strain levels above the set threshold, indicating excessive tension or stress, the vibration unit 107 activates to vibrate the plate. The vibration serves as a reminder for the user to relax their muscle. The vibration feedback helps prompt the user to adjust their position or take a break, promoting better muscle relaxation and reducing the risk of discomfort or injury.

[0038] The vibration unit 107 operates by generating controlled vibrations to provide therapeutic or supportive effects. It typically consists of an electric motor or piezoelectric elements that convert electrical energy into mechanical vibrations. These vibrations are transmitted through the unit, which is strategically positioned to target specific areas, such as behind the knee. By adjusting the frequency and intensity of the vibrations, the unit alleviate muscle tension, improve blood circulation, and enhance comfort of the user leg.

[0039] An artificial intelligence-based imaging unit installed on the plate and integrated with a processor, monitor and process images in the vicinity of the plate. The imaging unit records the movement of the user's knee. The AI module analyze the images in order to detect the knee's movement and determine the required adjustments for the plates 101. Based on this analysis, the processor sends commands to the microcontroller. The microcontroller then actuates the hinge 102 connecting the plates 101, allowing them to rotate with respect to each other to support the detected knee movement. This dynamic adjustment ensures that the plates 101 remain aligned and provide optimal support as the knee moves.

[0040] The artificial intelligence-based imaging unit comprises of a camera lens and a processor, wherein the 360 degree rotatable camera captures multiple images of the vicinity of the plate and then the processor carries out a sequence of steps including pre-processing, feature extraction and segmentation. In pre-processing, the unwanted data like noise, background is removed out and the image is converted into a format recommended for feature extraction. The features like pixel intensities of the foreground image are extracted and are sent for classification to determine movement of the knee of the user.

[0041] A touch-enabled display 109 provided on the plate and linked with the microcontroller, allows the user to provide touch inputs for unstrapping the plates 101. When the user interacts with the display 109 to initiate unstrapping, the microcontroller responds by deactivating the electromagnets, which releases the strap 106 from the plates 101. The touch-enabled display 109 as mentioned herein is typically an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) screen that presents output in a visible form. The screen is equipped with touch-sensitive technology, allowing the user to interact directly with the display 109 using their fingers. A touch controller IC (Integrated Circuit) is responsible for processing the analog signals generated when the user inputs details regarding unstrapping the plates 101. A touch controller is typically connected to an inbuilt microcontroller embedded within the plate through various interfaces which may include but are not limited to SPI (Serial Peripheral Interface) or I2C (Inter-Integrated Circuit). The microcontroller processes the user input.

[0042] Lastly, a battery is installed within the device which is connected to the microcontroller that supplies current to all the electrically powered components that needs an amount of electric power to perform their functions and operation in an efficient manner. The battery utilized here, is generally a dry battery which is made up of Lithium-ion material that gives the device a long-lasting as well as an efficient DC (Direct Current) current which helps every component to function properly in an efficient manner. As the device is battery operated and do not need any electrical voltage for functioning. Hence the presence of battery leads to the portability of the device i.e., user is able to place as well as moves the device from one place to another as per the requirements.

[0043] The present invention works best in the following manner, where the device comprises of two rectangular plates 101 that are positioned behind the user's knee and connected by the hinge 102, allowing for natural movement with knee flexion. The plates 101 are coated with the anti-microbial layer to prevent microbial growth and have multiple holes 103 for airflow. The Peltier unit 104, regulates the temperature within a comfortable range, monitored by an embedded temperature sensor. Each plate includes the roller 105 with the strap 106 for securing the device around the leg, with electromagnets ensuring the strap 106 attach firmly. The FBG sensor detects the blood flow rate in the user’s leg, triggering the microcontroller to adjust the rollers if the blood flow rate drops below the set threshold, thereby loosening the strap 106. Additionally, the EMG sensor measures muscular strain and if excessive strain is detected, the microcontroller activates the vibration unit 107 to alert the user to relax their muscle. The artificial intelligence-based imaging unit records and processes images to track knee movement, allows the microcontroller to adjust the hinge 102 and enables the plates 101 to rotate in response to the user’s knee movements. The device is controlled via the microphone 108 for voice commands and the touch-enabled display 109 for manual inputs.

[0044] Although the field of the invention has been described herein with limited reference to specific embodiments, this description is not meant to be construed in a limiting sense. Various modifications of the disclosed embodiments, as well as alternate embodiments of the invention, will become apparent to persons skilled in the art upon reference to the description of the invention. , Claims:1) A knee stabilizing device, comprising:

i) a pair of rectangular plates 101 adapted to be placed behind a knee of a user, attached with one another by means of a hinge 102 for enabling a movement of said plates 101 along with bending of knee of said user, said plates 101 coated with anti-microbial coating for preventing a microbial growth;
ii) a plurality of holes 103 provided on said plates 101 for allowing an air flow through said plates 101, wherein a Peltier unit 104 is integrated with said plates 101 for maintaining a temperature of said plates 101 within a predetermined range for a comfort of said user, wherein temperature of said plates 101 is detected by a temperature sensor embedded in said plate;
iii) a roller 105 containing a spool of strap 106 attached on each said plate for strapping around leg of said user, wherein electromagnets are embedded with open ends of said strap 106 for attaching onto said plate surface;
iv) an FBG (fiber bragg grating) sensor embedded in said plate for detecting blood flow rate in legs of said user, to trigger a microcontroller to actuate said roller 105 to loosen said strap 106 if said detected blood flow rate is below a threshold blood flow rate;
v) an EMG (electromyography) sensor provided in said plate for detecting a muscular strain in said leg to trigger said microcontroller to actuate a vibration unit 107 installed on said plate to vibrate said plate to notify said user regarding relaxing said muscle, if said detected strain exceeds a threshold strain; and
vi) an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit, installed on said plate and integrated with a processor for recording and processing images in a vicinity of said plate, to determine movement of said knee to trigger said microcontroller to actuate said hinge 102 to support said movement by rotating said plates 101 with respect to each other as per said detected movement.

2) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a microphone 108, linked with said microcontroller, provided on said plate for receiving an audio command from said user regarding strapping said plate to trigger said microcontroller to actuate said roller 105 to rotate to wind said strap 106 to tighten said strap 106 around leg of user.

3) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a touch-enabled display 109, linked with said microcontroller, is provided on said plate for enabling said user to provide touch input regarding unstrapping said plates 101, to deactivate said electromagnets to detach said strap 106 from said plates 101 and said roller 105 to wind said strap 106.

4) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a battery is associated with said device for powering up electrical and electronically operated components associated with said device.