EP1693040A1 - Streckvorrichtung - Google Patents

Streckvorrichtung Download PDF

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Publication number
EP1693040A1
EP1693040A1 EP06003073A EP06003073A EP1693040A1 EP 1693040 A1 EP1693040 A1 EP 1693040A1 EP 06003073 A EP06003073 A EP 06003073A EP 06003073 A EP06003073 A EP 06003073A EP 1693040 A1 EP1693040 A1 EP 1693040A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
diaphragm
carriage
neck
corrugated diaphragm
corrugated
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Withdrawn
Application number
EP06003073A
Other languages
English (en)
French (fr)
Inventor
Christian Hunt
Ara Boghosian
John A. Spadavecchia
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Care Rehab and Orthopedic Products Inc
Original Assignee
Care Rehab and Orthopedic Products Inc
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Priority claimed from US11/275,969 external-priority patent/US20070010774A1/en
Application filed by Care Rehab and Orthopedic Products Inc filed Critical Care Rehab and Orthopedic Products Inc
Publication of EP1693040A1 publication Critical patent/EP1693040A1/de
Withdrawn legal-status Critical Current

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Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
    • A61H1/00—Apparatus for passive exercising; Vibrating apparatus; Chiropractic devices, e.g. body impacting devices, external devices for briefly extending or aligning unbroken bones
    • A61H1/02—Stretching or bending or torsioning apparatus for exercising
    • A61H1/0292—Stretching or bending or torsioning apparatus for exercising for the spinal column
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
    • A61H1/00—Apparatus for passive exercising; Vibrating apparatus; Chiropractic devices, e.g. body impacting devices, external devices for briefly extending or aligning unbroken bones
    • A61H1/02—Stretching or bending or torsioning apparatus for exercising
    • A61H1/0218—Drawing-out devices
    • A61H1/0222—Traction tables

Definitions

  • the invention generally relates to a cervical and/or lumbar traction device, and more particularly, to a cervical and/or lumbar traction device having a diaphragm.
  • Traction devices are used to relieve pressure on inflamed or enlarged nerves. Cervical and lumbar or spinal traction devices are the most common type of these devices. When correctly used, the traction devices can relieve pain in the neck and the spine by, for example, straightening the curvature of the spine or stretching of the spinal and cervical musculature.
  • Portable traction devices are now becoming very popular for in home use. These devices allow patients to perform traction therapy without leaving their homes, or expending large sums of money for a healthcare provider or physical therapist. Under the proper guidance and instruction, these portable devices are becoming ever more common, especially in today's age of rising health care costs.
  • two flat separate boards are assembled in order to form the platform for the device.
  • hooks extending from one flat board are aligned with holes in the other flat board. This is accomplished, most typically, by lifting and aligning the board with the hooks and then inserting the hooks into the holes.
  • a piston rod of a pneumatic device remains attached to one board and the cylinder housing of the pneumatic cylinder remains attached to the other board, making for a very awkward assembly.
  • the hooks must be removed from the holes, which is an awkward process, especially in view of the piston rods and cylinders remaining attached between the separated boards.
  • a device in a first aspect of the invention, includes a frame and a carriage slidable mounted on the frame. At least one diaphragm mechanism is connectable to the carriage. The diaphragm is structured to elastically expand and retract, depending on an application of pressure, in order to extend and retract, respectively, the carriage.
  • a manifold is coupled between the at least one diaphragm and a pump system. The manifold includes at least one port coupled to a neck of the at least one diaphragm and a neck communicating with the pump system.
  • the device in another aspect of the invention, includes a frame for accommodating at least one corrugated diaphragm device.
  • the at least one corrugated diaphragm device has a retractable spring force such that, upon release of pressure within the at least one corrugated diaphragm device, the at least one corrugated diaphragm device retracts and moves the carriage towards an initial position.
  • a manifold is connectable between the least one corrugated diaphragm device and a pneumatic system.
  • the manifold includes at least one port and at least one neck. The at least one port is connectable to a neck of the least one corrugated diaphragm device and the at least one neck is connectable to a hose of the pneumatic system.
  • a manifold device in another aspect of the invention, includes a body having at least one port and one neck having a channel therein in fluid communication with the at least one port.
  • the neck includes a sealing projection.
  • An adapter is configured to be insertabe into the at least one port.
  • the adapter comprises a varied cross section with a major diameter of at least one portion of the varied cross section being larger than an inner diameter of the at least one port at least in one location.
  • the at least one diaphragm has an approximate length of 10.5 inches in the extendable position.
  • the at least one diaphragm has an approximate length of 6.5 inches at a starting position.
  • a stroke length of the at least one diaphragm from a starting position to an extendable position is approximately 4 inches.
  • the at least one diaphragm is two or three diaphragms.
  • the device further comprises at least one restraining mechanism to releasably restrain a portion of a person's body to the slidable carriage.
  • the device further comprises a wedge system that is only linearly adjustable relative to the carriage.
  • the locking system includes a spring arm or a hook, and notches or holes associated with a guidance on the stationary frame which are structured to accommodate the spring arm or the hook.
  • the pinch spring arm mechanism includes at least one ratchet guide and one or more spring arms extending from each wedge and engaging the at least one ratchet guide at different positions via a tabbed or protruding portion.
  • the device further comprises an anti-rotation device to prevent rotation of wedges of the wedge system.
  • the traction system is one of a lumbar traction system and a cervical traction system.
  • the at least one port is two ports extending along a length of the manifold.
  • the two ports are coupled to two diaphragms.
  • an outermost diameter of at least one of the outward extending barbs is slightly larger than an inner circumference of the hose to minimize any leakage between the hose and the manifold.
  • the adapter is configured to be insertable into the at least one port and the at least one diaphragm.
  • the at least one port includes at least one detent about a circumference or portion thereof and a neck of the at least one diaphragm includes at least one corresponding barb.
  • the at least one detent and corresponding barb is configured to secure the at least one diaphragm to the manifold during curing of a glue or epoxy applied to secure the at least one diaphragm to the at least one port.
  • the at least one diaphragm and the at least one port are ultrasonic or thermal welded together.
  • the manifold includes a pressure release valve.
  • the device further comprises an adapter having a plurality of bards, the adapter being insertable into the at least one port.
  • the varied cross section includes a plurality of barbs extending circumferentially about a body, each of the barbs is configured to prevent disengagement of the at least one corrugated diaphragm device from the adapter and the adapter from the manifold.
  • the manifold is a resilient type material softer than that of the adapter.
  • the at least one port includes at least one detent about a circumference or portion thereof and a neck of the at least one corrugated diaphragm includes at least one corresponding barb, wherein the at least one detent and corresponding barb is configured to secure the at least one corrugated diaphragm to the manifold.
  • the at least one corrugated diaphragm and the at least one port are glued, ultrasonic or thermal welded together.
  • the manifold includes pressure release valve.
  • the mounting carriage assembly includes a mounting structure having at least one mounting connection.
  • the mounting structure connects to a boss of the carriage.
  • the connecting disk includes a slot having a shoulder and portions which are configured to be mountable between the flanges.
  • the at least one diaphragm includes a "T" shaped projection mating with the slot and shoulder of the connecting disk.
  • the opposing flanges include tapered end walls and the connecting disk is mountable between the opposing flanges.
  • the connecting disk includes a slot having a shoulder and at least one recessed portion which is configured to interface with at least one flange of the flanges.
  • the at least one corrugated diaphragm device includes a "T" projection configured to mate with a slot and shoulder of the connecting disk.
  • the invention is directed to a cervical and/or a lumbar traction device.
  • the traction device includes a corrugated diaphragm which is structured and adapted to move a carriage in a linear fashion.
  • the diaphragm includes a certain spring force which is capable, upon the release of pressure therein, to move the carriage towards its original position and, in embodiments, substantially to its original position.
  • a roll spring or other spring or resilient type mechanism may be used in combination with the diaphragm, to retract the carriage towards its original position.
  • the diaphragm is devoid of any moving components.
  • the cervical and/or a lumbar traction device, using the diaphragm and related components, is lighter and includes less parts than devices using pneumatic cylinders.
  • FIG. 1 shows an embodiment of the cervical traction device.
  • the cervical traction device is generally denoted as reference numeral 2.
  • the traction device 2 includes a stationary housing (e.g., frame) 4 having a moveable stand 6 which is structured and adapted so that several angles can be achieved relative to a flat surface, e.g., a floor or other surface where a user may use the device 2.
  • the cervical traction device 2 further includes a movable headrest 10 having a occiput wedge system 12, which is mounted to a sliding carriage 14.
  • a strap or other restraining device 16 for restraining a user's head is attached to the movable head-rest system 10.
  • the occiput wedge system 12 includes separate wedges 12a that may have a concave engaging surface.
  • the occiput wedge system 12, with the head-rest 10, may be slidably movable along a longitudinal axis "Y" of the housing 4 by a corrugated diaphragm type device (shown more clearly in FIG. 3).
  • the occiput wedge system 12 is designed to apply a therapeutic traction force to the occipital areas on a patent's head, while the housing 4 remains stationary. This is accomplished, in one aspect of the invention, by pressure being applied by a pump P via a hose H, to the diaphragm type device.
  • the corrugated diaphragm type device upon pressurization, will move or slide the carriage 14 and thus the head-rest 10 and occiput wedge system 12.
  • the pump P may have a manual pressure relief mechanism 18, as well as a gauge 20 to show a force which is produced by the diaphragm type device.
  • Figures 2a and 2b show the cervical traction device 1 positioned at an angle of, for example, 10 degrees relative to a flat surface, e.g., a floor or other surface where the user may use the device 2. It should be understood that other angles of adjustment, e.g., 15 degrees, 20 degrees, etc. with relation to the supporting surface, are also contemplated by the invention, and that the angles shown herein are provided for illustrative purposes. In the examples of Figures 2a and 2b, the adjustment can be accomplished via movement of the moveable stand 6 in either direction "A" or "B", along the longitudinal axis of the device 2.
  • the housing 4 includes a guidance 24 which has turned ends that form rails 26.
  • the rails 26 are structured to accommodate the stand 6.
  • the rails 26 include a plurality of notches 22 for locking or positioning of the stand 6 at a predetermined position.
  • the notches 22 may also be apertures or holes.
  • the stand 6 may be locked into place by use of a spring arm, hook or other type of mechanism 6a that engages the notches 22 positioned along the stand 6 of the housing 4.
  • the traction device is in an extended position; whereas, in Figure 2b, the traction device is in a retracted position.
  • the extended position is achievable by pressurizing the diaphragm shown in Figure 3.
  • the retracted position is achievable, at least in part, by a return spring force of the diaphragm. That is, upon release of pressure, the spring force of the diaphragm is capable of moving the carriage towards its original position and, in embodiments, substantially to its original position.
  • FIG. 3 shows a cutaway view of the traction device in accordance with the invention.
  • the traction device 2 includes a corrugated diaphragm type device 30 that is mounted within or mounted to the housing 4.
  • the corrugated diaphragm type device 30 is mounted to a support structure 32 of the housing 4 and the movable carriage 14.
  • at least one boss 34 extends from the moveable carriage 14, via a slot 36 extending substantially along a length of the housing 4, into an interior space of the housing 4, which is connected to a mounting carriage 35.
  • the corrugated diaphragm type device 30 is attached to the at least one boss 34 via a mounting carriage 35 adapted and configured to slide within the housing 4 and preferably a profile 35a of the housing 4 that is configured to house the corrugated diaphragm type device 30.
  • the corrugated diaphragm type device 30 Upon pressurization of the corrugated diaphragm type device 30, the corrugated diaphragm type device 30 will move the carriage 14 to apply a traction force.
  • the corrugated diaphragm type device 30 is connected to an air inlet or manifold 38 provided at an end of the housing 4, proximate to the support structure 32.
  • the manifold 38 is connected to one or more of the diaphragm type devices 30 and is structured to allow pressurized air from the pump "P" to pass into the corrugated diaphragm type device 30.
  • the corrugated diaphragm type device 30 acts as a spring, e.g., has its own spring force, to retract the carriage in both a cervical and lumbar traction system from an expanded position.
  • the corrugated diaphragm type device 30 can be expanded to approximately 10.5 inches in the expanded position, and in one embodiment may have a starting position of about 6.5 inches in length (with an original neutral length of approximately 8 inches). It is also contemplated that other starting and expanded positions are provided by the invention.
  • a stroke length of the corrugated diaphragm type device 30 is approximately 4 inches; although other stroke lengths are also contemplated by the invention.
  • FIG. 4 shows an exploded view of the traction device in accordance with the invention.
  • the traction device includes, for example, the headrest 10 and occiput wedge system 12 connected to the carriage 14.
  • the carriage 14 is connected to the boss 34 which extends through the slot 36 along the housing 4 and more specifically a cover plate 4a of the housing 4.
  • the housing 4 further includes a lower frame portion 4b, which includes an interior portion 40 for housing the corrugated diaphragm type device 30.
  • the housing 4 further includes the support structure 32, which may include an extending portion 32a for resting on a supporting surface.
  • a cover 32b may be used, in conjunction with the extending portion 32a, to form an interior space, which accommodates the manifold 38.
  • the extending portion 32a may be held in place by a nut 400 having a projection 400b, as shown in Figures 4a and 4b.
  • the nut will be bolted via the hole 400c and the projection 400b will communicate with a slot 400a in the frame portion to prevent rotation of the extending portion 32a and to ensure a connection therebetween
  • the extending portion 32a may be connected or mated with the frame by any known, conventional manner such as a screw, nut and bolt system, etc.
  • An end cap 42 may be connected to the housing 4, opposing the extending portion 32a.
  • the combination of the end cap 42, top plate 4a, bottom frame 4b and support structure forms an interior housing for the corrugated diaphragm type device 30.
  • the corrugated diaphragm type device 30 is mounted or attached to the mounting carriage 35 which has at least one extending boss 34 adapted and configured to slide within a guide of the housing 4 and connectable to the sliding carriage 14.
  • Figure 5 shows a bottom view (with a bottom portion of the housing removed) of the traction device 2 in accordance with the invention.
  • the wedges 12 are designed to move in a lateral direction, e.g., do not rotate.
  • the wedges 12 can be adjustable by a pinch spring arm mechanism 50.
  • the pinch spring arm mechanism 50 includes a ratchet type guidance 52 in/on the moveable carriage 14.
  • the pinch spring arm mechanism 50 further includes spring arms 54 which may engage the ratchet guide 52 at different positions via opposing protruding portions 56.
  • the opposing protruding portions 56 have tabs 56a so that the user can squeeze them together to disengage from a ratchet portion of the ratchet guide 52, and then move the wedges in an inward position or an outward position.
  • the movement of the wedges may be in a somewhat linear manner across the carriage 14.
  • the at least one boss 34 in one implementation, is attached to or in contacted to a carriage (or mount) which slides in the housing. With this configuration, upon pressurization of the corrugated diaphragm type device 30, the carriage (or mount) will move which, in turn, will move the carriage 14.
  • the wedge system 12 may also include an anti-rotation rib 58 and corresponding slot or groove 60 for preventing rotation of the wedge 12.
  • the slot 60 can be part of the carriage 14 and is, in one implementation, proximate to the ratchet guide 52.
  • the rib 58 communicates with the slot 60 while allowing the wedges 12 to slide in and out.
  • FIG. 6 shows an embodiment of a lumbar traction device 100 in accordance with the invention. Similar to the traction device shown and described with reference to Figures 1-5, a corrugated diaphragm type device is used to apply a traction type force. In the lumbar traction device 100, three corrugated diaphragm type devices may also be used to provide the traction force. Integrally molded frame members 102A and 102B are hingedly attached via a hinge type mechanism 104 (which may be an alternating type hinge mechanism having at least four parts) to form a portable, foldable device.
  • a hinge type mechanism 104 which may be an alternating type hinge mechanism having at least four parts
  • the frame members 102A and 102B face one another; whereas, in the open state, the frame members 102A and 102B extend along a longitudinal axis in a single plane.
  • the lumbar traction device 100 also includes integrally formed handles 108, for example, molded on sides or the ends thereof.
  • the frame members 102A and 102B are designed to house or mount thereon many of the components of the lumbar traction device 100, such as the corrugated diaphragm type device 30.
  • the lumbar traction device 100 may include guides 112 positioned on opposing sides of the frame member 102A and/or frame member 102B. The guides 112 are designed to seat thereon a slidable lumbar carriage 114.
  • the lumbar carriage 114 is slidably moveable along the longitudinal axis of the frame 102A and 102B to provide a traction force such that, upon pressurization or release thereof, the corrugated diaphragm type device moves the slidable lumbar carriage 114 in directions "A" and "B".
  • the lumbar carriage 114 includes a support pad 116 for the comfort of a user.
  • a pair of belts or other restraining device 120 can be mounted to the support pad 116 and/or the frame member(s).
  • the slidable lumbar carriage 114 may also be seated within a recessed portion 118 of the frame.
  • the slidable lumbar carriage 114 is connected to the corrugated diaphragm type device 30 in order to provide a traction force.
  • the corrugated diaphragm type device 30 is mounted within a housing or recess 122 formed by the frame member and a cover plate 124.
  • the lumbar traction device may include two or three corrugated diaphragm type devices 30, corresponding to the number of recesses and/or the required application of traction force.
  • the corrugated diaphragm type device 30 is connected to the manifold 126 which, in turn, is housed inside support structure 132, which, in turn, is mounted to support structure 128.
  • the manifold 126 includes an air intake/exhaust 132 connected to a hose "H" of the hand pump "P".
  • the corrugated diaphragm type device 30 is also connected to the slidable lumbar carriage 114 via at least one boss 134.
  • the at least one boss 134 extends from the slidable lumbar carriage 114, via s slot or cutout 136 extending substantially along a length of the plate 124.
  • the corrugated diaphragm type device 30 is attached to the at least one boss 134 and, upon pressurization of the corrugated diaphragm type device(s) 30, will move the slidable lumbar carriage 114 to apply a traction force.
  • the support pad 116 may be mounted to the slidable lumbar carriage 114 via a plate 114a (and fasteners, e.g., screws, rivets, etc.)
  • the corrugated diaphragm type device 30 acts as a spring, e.g., has its own spring force, to retract the carriage in both a cervical and lumbar traction system from an expanded position.
  • a roll spring or other spring or resilient type mechanism may be used in combination with the diaphragm, to retract the carriage towards its original position which is represented schematically with the diaphragm.
  • the corrugated diaphragm type device 30 can be expanded to approximately 10.5 inches in the expanded position, and in one embodiment may have a starting position of about 6.5 inches in length. It is also contemplated that other starting and expanded positions are provided by the invention.
  • a stroke length of the corrugated diaphragm type device 30 is approximately 4 inches; although other stroke lengths are also contemplated by the invention.
  • FIGS 8 and 9 show a corrugated diaphragm and manifold system.
  • manifold 38 For purposes of this discussion, reference will be made to the manifold 38; although, it should be understood that the discussion herein is equally applicable to the manifold 126.
  • two corrugated diaphragms 30 are coupled to or mated with the manifold 38 via ports (e.g., hollow necks) 44 extending along a length of a body 46.
  • the manifold 38 may include more or less than two ports in order to couple or mate more or less than two corrugated diaphragms, depending on the desired or required forces needed to move and/or retract the carriage of the traction device.
  • a spring force of one corrugated diaphragm may be designed to move the traction device to the retracted position.
  • the ports 44 are in fluid communication with the hollow body 46 which, in turn, is in fluid communication with a neck 48 positioned at one end of the manifold 38; although, it should be understood that the neck 48 may be placed at any location along the hollow body 46.
  • the neck 48 includes one or more outward extending barbs 48a, 48b, e.g., conically shaped protrusions which facilitate the engagement of the hose "H" to the manifold 38.
  • the hose “H” is mated to the neck 48 and held securely in place via the one or more barbs 48a, 48b; that is, the hose “H” is placed about the neck 48 and is securely attached thereto by the use of the barbs 48a, 48b.
  • the barb 48a includes a tapered end in order to facilitate the placement of the hose "H” over the neck 48.
  • an outermost diameter of at least one of the barbs is slightly larger than an inner circumference of the hose "H” such that air leakage is minimized between the hose "H” and the manifold 38.
  • the direction of the barbs, facing toward the body 46 facilitates easy installation of the hose "H", while ensuring that the hose "H” will not disengage from the neck 48.
  • the hose “H” is made of a flexible and/or resilient material such that it slightly deforms as it is moved over the barbs of the neck 48, minimizing any leakage between the hose "H” and the neck 48.
  • the corrugated diaphragm 30 can be secured to the port 44 via a glueless mechanism (e.g., a barb adapter 50).
  • a glueless mechanism e.g., a barb adapter 50
  • the barb adapter 50 provides an outward force such that the outer wall of the neck 30a remains engaged to the inner circumference of the port 44. In this configuration, leakage is minimized between the major diameter of the barb adaptor and the inner diameter of the neck of the diaphragm and more specifically a barb feature on the barb adapter.
  • the connection mechanism 50 (e.g., barb adapter) includes a channel 50a and a varied cross section, generally depicted as reference numeral 52.
  • the varied cross section includes a plurality of outward projections or barbs 52a, 52b, 52c and 52d, extending circumferentially about the body 52.
  • the barbs 52a, 52b, 52c and 52d each include a ledge or shoulder 52a 1 , 52b 1 , 52c 1 and 52d 1 (hereinafter referred to as a shoulder) which is configured to prevent disengagement of the corrugated diaphragm from the barb adapter, amongst other features.
  • the shoulders 52a 1 and 52b 1 are configured in the same orientation (e.g., facing in a same direction) and the shoulders 52c 1 and 52d 1 are configured in the same orientation (e.g., facing in a same direction).
  • the shoulders 52a 1 and 52b 1 are configured in a different orientation than that of the shoulders 52c 1 and 52d 1 , e.g., the shoulders 52a 1 and 52b 1 face the shoulders 52c 1 and 52d 1 .
  • the barbs 52a, 52b, 52c and 52d are configured and designed to couple the corrugated diaphragm 30 to the manifold 38, as well as ensure that the barb adapter 50 remains securely coupled to the manifold 38.
  • a major diameter of at least one of the barbs 52c and 52d, and preferably both of the barbs 52c and 52d is larger than the inner diameter of the port 44, thus ensuring that the barb adapter 50 remains securely coupled to the manifold 38.
  • Such a configuration (orientation and size) also minimizes leakage between the barb adapter 50 and the manifold 38 at designed pressures used in traction devices, i.e., at a pressure which are known to those of ordinary skill in the art.
  • a cervical traction device may be designed for pressures between 0 and 35 PSI; whereas, a lumbar traction device may be designed for pressure between 0 and 75 PSI. It should further be realized by those of skill in the art that the orientation of the barbs 52c and 52d ensures that the barb adapter cannot be easily removed from the manifold.
  • the manifold 38 is made of a resilient type material, capable of slight deflection.
  • the material of the manifold is softer than that of the barb adapter 50.
  • the material of the manifold 38 may include thermoplastic polyester elastomer; whereas, the material of the barb adapter 50 may be brass or other alloys or plastic materials. This minimizing any leakage between the barb adapter 50 and the manifold 38.
  • the corrugated diaphragm 30 may also be of a softer material than the barb adapter 50.
  • the combination of the major diameter (OD) of the barbs 52a and 52b and the thickness of the material of the neck of the corrugated diaphragm is larger than the inner diameter of the port 44.
  • air leakage is minimized between the major diameter of the barb adaptor and the inner diameter of the neck of the diaphragm and more specifically a barb feature on the barb diaphragm.
  • the orientation of the barbs 52a, 52b, 52c and 52d facilitates installation of the barb adapter 50 into the neck 44, as well as the neck 30a of the corrugated diaphragm 30 about the barb adapter 50.
  • the orientation of the barbs 52a, 52b, 52c and 52d prevent the removal of the barb adapter 50 from the neck 44, as well as the neck 30a of the corrugated diaphragm 30 from the barb adapter 50.
  • Figure 11 shows another embodiment in accordance with invention.
  • the port 44 includes detents or grooves 44a about the entire circumference or portion thereof.
  • the neck 30a of the corrugated diaphragm includes barbs 30b.
  • the combination of the grooves 44a and barbs 30a are designed to secure the corrugated diaphragm 30 to the manifold 38 during curing of a glue or epoxy.
  • the barbs 30b mate with the one or more detents 44a to stabilize the assembly during the curing stage.
  • the corrugated diaphragm 30 may also be secured to the inner wall of the port 44 by way of ultrasonic or thermal welding. It should be recognized that the adapter barb 50 may also be used in combination with the embodiment of Figure 11.
  • FIG. 12 shows a manifold with pressure release valve in accordance with the invention and Figure 13 shows a cross section of the manifold along line 12-12 of Figure 12.
  • the pressure release valve generally denoted as reference numeral 60 includes a spring 62 that keeps a valve 64 closed under normal operating pressure.
  • the valve 64 opens to allow the release of air until the pressure is reduced to within safe operating conditions.
  • the pressure release valve ensures that a user cannot exceed a designed traction force, thus maintaining safe use conditions of the traction device.
  • the valve automatically closes.
  • FIG 14 shows an exploded, perspective view of a mounting carriage in accordance with the invention.
  • the mounting carriage 35 is designed and configured to accommodate two corrugated diaphragms 30 (although only one corrugated diaphragm is shown for illustrative purposes). It should be realized by those of skill in the art that the mounting carriage 35 may be designed to accommodate more or less than one corrugated diaphragm, depending on the particular application.
  • the mounting carriage 35 is adapted to slide within the housing 4. Accordingly, the mounting carriage 35, in one preferred embodiment, will have a cross section similar to that of the housing 4 and more preferably the countoured profile 35a of the housing 4.
  • the housing 4, in one implementation, may be molded to include the coutoured profile 35a.
  • the mounting carriage 35 includes two sides 35b, each substantially identical to one another and connected to each other by a mounting plate 135.
  • the mounting plate 135 includes mounting connections 137 , e.g., projections which can accommodate screws or other fastening means.
  • the mounting connections 137 may be used to connect the at least one boss 34 to the carriage 35. In embodiments, when only a single mounting plate is contemplated by the invention, the mounting plate 135 may be positioned at any surface of the mounting carriage, facing the boss.
  • the mounting carriage 35 includes end plates 139 having a cross section substantially matching the cross section of the corrugated diaphragm 30.
  • the cross section of the mounting carriage 35 may also be different than that of the corrugated diaphragm 30, but should remain configured to allow mounting of the corrugated diaphragm thereon.
  • the end plates 139 each include flanges 141, which are configured to accommodate a connector disk 143 used to connect the corrugated diaphragm 30 to the mounting carriage 35.
  • the flanges 141 have at least portions which are opposing one another in order to secure the connector disk 143 thereto.
  • connection from the diaphragm to the carriage does not require a connector disk and that the carriage could have a slot configuration which would accommodate the "T" shaped projection of the diaphragm for connection thereto, therefore eliminating the connector disk.
  • the flanges may also be eliminated.
  • the flanges 141 have an inner surface 141 a which is substantially flat; although, other surface contours are also contemplated by the invention.
  • the flanges 141 may have a slightly tapered outer surface 141 b and end walls 141 c and, in embodiments, are mounted to or molded on the end plates 139 at a slight inward angle towards each other.
  • the inward angle is such that the connector disk 143 is press fit between the flanges 141 and remains secured therebetween, as shown in Figure 14. It should be recognized by those of skill in the art that the inward angle of the flanges 141 and the tapered end walls 141c may vary, depending on the contours and shape of the mounting disk, any of which can be obtained without undue experimentation.
  • the inward angle alone or in combination with the tapered end walls 141 c can be used to securely fit the connector disk 143 between flanges 141 and hence securely fit the corrugated diaphragm to the mounting carriage 35.
  • the tapered end walls 141 alone in embodiments, can be used to securely fit the connector disk 143 between the opposing flanges 141 and hence securely fit the corrugated diaphragm to the mounting carriage 35.
  • FIG 15 shows the connector disk 143 in accordance with the invention.
  • the connector disk 143 includes a slot 145 having a shoulder 147 running along its length. It should be recognized by those of skill in the art that the shoulder 147 does not have to run the entire length of the slot 147, and may be intermittently or singularly placed at a predetermined location along the slot 145. As discussed with reference to Figures 16 and 17, the slot 147 is designed and configured to mate with a "T" shaped projection extending from an end of the corrugated diaphragm 30.
  • the connector disk 143 further includes recessed sides 149 which are configured to mate with the inner surface 141 a of the flanges 141.
  • the recessed sides 149 may have a flat surface; although other surface shapes and contours are also contemplated by the invention, all of which are configured to fit between the opposing flanges 141.
  • the recessed sides 149 may be tapered to substantially match the slight inward angle of the opposing flanges 141.
  • end walls 149a of the recessed sides 149 may be tapered or angled to substantially match the taper of the tapered end walls 141c of the flanges 141.
  • the configuration of the connector disk 143 and the corresponding configuration of the flanges 141 facilitates a secure attachment between the connector disk and the mounting connector.
  • Figure 16 shows a perspective view the connector disk mounted to the corrugated diaphragm in accordance with the invention.
  • Figure 17 shows a cutaway view of the connector disk and diaphragm along line 11-11 of Figure 16.
  • the corrugated diaphragm includes a "T" shaped projection, extending from an end thereof.
  • the "T" shaped projection slides within the slot 145 of the connector disk 143 and more specifically is securely held within the slot by the mating between the "T" shaped projection and the shoulder 147 of the connector disk 143.
  • the connector disk 143 has substantially a same cross section (expect for the recessed portions) as the corrugated diaphragm, it should be recognized that other shapes are also contemplated by the invention. In embodiments, for example, the cross sectional shape of the connector disk 143 matches and not be larger than that of the end plate 139 of the mounting carriage 35.
  • the corrugated diaphragm 30 is securely fitted to the connector disk 143 by way of the mating between the "T" shaped projection and slot 145.
  • the connector disk 143 is securely fitted to the mounting carriage 35 by mating of the flanges 141 and the recessed portions 149.
  • the corrugated diaphragm 30 is securely attached to the mounting carriage 35.
  • pressurization of the corrugated diaphragm will move the moveable carriage and hence provide traction to the patient.
  • the corrugated diaphragm type device 30 is initially at atmospheric pressure.
  • a cervical traction device prior to use, the patient or user can adjust the angle of the cervical traction device by adjusting the positioning of the stand. The back of the user is placed on a support surface so that the wedges cradle the patient's neck. The wedges can also be adjusted but preferably remain substantially stationary during use of the device.
  • the restraining device may be used about the patient's head to ensure the user remains substantially stationary during treatment of cervical traction device. In the lumbar device, the patient would strap the restraining device about his/her mid section.
  • the patient then pumps air into the corrugated diaphragm type device by way of the pneumatic circuit described above.
  • the patient increases the traction force by manually operating the pump or decreases the traction force by manually pressing the pressure relief mechanism.
  • the corrugated diaphragm type device will expand and move the carriage to apply a traction force.
  • the entire structure of the cervical traction device remains constant, during the application of the traction force.
  • the pressure release valve When excessive pressure occurs inside of the pneumatic system, the pressure release valve will allow the release of air until the pressure is reduced to within safe operating conditions. Thus, the pressure release valve ensures that a user cannot exceed a designed traction force, thus maintaining safe use conditions of the traction device. When the pressure reaches a value less than the spring resistance, the valve automatically closes.
  • a device includes a stationary housing having a guidance.
  • a carriage is slidable mounted on the guidance and at least one corrugated diaphragm mechanism is housed in the housing and connectable to the carriage.
  • the corrugated diaphragm is structured to elastically expand and retract, depending on an application of pressure, to extend and retract, respectively, the carriage along the guidance relative to the stationary housing.
  • a manifold is provided to connect the corrugated diaphragm to a pump system a connection system is used to connect to the diaphragm.

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  • Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Rehabilitation Therapy (AREA)
  • Veterinary Medicine (AREA)
  • Public Health (AREA)
  • Epidemiology (AREA)
  • Pain & Pain Management (AREA)
  • Physical Education & Sports Medicine (AREA)
  • General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Animal Behavior & Ethology (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Biomedical Technology (AREA)
  • Orthopedic Medicine & Surgery (AREA)
  • Neurology (AREA)
  • Orthopedics, Nursing, And Contraception (AREA)
EP06003073A 2005-02-16 2006-02-15 Streckvorrichtung Withdrawn EP1693040A1 (de)

Applications Claiming Priority (4)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US65310605P 2005-02-16 2005-02-16
US11/275,969 US20070010774A1 (en) 2005-02-16 2006-02-07 Traction device with diaphragm and manifold connection
US11/275,971 US20060184082A1 (en) 2005-02-16 2006-02-07 Traction device
US11/275,970 US20060200060A1 (en) 2005-02-16 2006-02-07 Traction device with diaphragm and connection thereto

Publications (1)

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EP1693040A1 true EP1693040A1 (de) 2006-08-23

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EP06003073A Withdrawn EP1693040A1 (de) 2005-02-16 2006-02-15 Streckvorrichtung

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Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
ES2938934A1 (es) * 2021-10-15 2023-04-17 Univ Internacional De Catalunya Fundacio Privada Sistema para evaluacion y tratamiento de la columna cervical

Citations (7)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3238936A (en) * 1962-04-16 1966-03-08 Nat Foundation For Physical Me Apparatus for mechanical corrective therapy
US3910263A (en) * 1973-06-13 1975-10-07 Olof Wallander Method and a device for obtaining a desired, substantially constant adjustable force in an attaching point
US4188677A (en) * 1977-11-30 1980-02-19 Zur Henry C Lounger bed and adjustable body supporting assembly
DE3526464A1 (de) * 1985-07-24 1986-02-27 Jörg 3050 Wunstorf Flemming Vorliekspanner fuer ein segelbrett
DE8522368U1 (de) * 1985-08-02 1989-01-19 Maier, Michael, 7700 Singen Vorrichtung zum Steuern einer Streckbank od. dgl.
US5707345A (en) * 1992-12-14 1998-01-13 Para Tech Industries, Inc. Method for treating carpal tunnel syndrome
GB2341099A (en) * 1998-09-07 2000-03-08 Kevin Mullally Clinical table for spine treatment

Patent Citations (7)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3238936A (en) * 1962-04-16 1966-03-08 Nat Foundation For Physical Me Apparatus for mechanical corrective therapy
US3910263A (en) * 1973-06-13 1975-10-07 Olof Wallander Method and a device for obtaining a desired, substantially constant adjustable force in an attaching point
US4188677A (en) * 1977-11-30 1980-02-19 Zur Henry C Lounger bed and adjustable body supporting assembly
DE3526464A1 (de) * 1985-07-24 1986-02-27 Jörg 3050 Wunstorf Flemming Vorliekspanner fuer ein segelbrett
DE8522368U1 (de) * 1985-08-02 1989-01-19 Maier, Michael, 7700 Singen Vorrichtung zum Steuern einer Streckbank od. dgl.
US5707345A (en) * 1992-12-14 1998-01-13 Para Tech Industries, Inc. Method for treating carpal tunnel syndrome
GB2341099A (en) * 1998-09-07 2000-03-08 Kevin Mullally Clinical table for spine treatment

Cited By (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
ES2938934A1 (es) * 2021-10-15 2023-04-17 Univ Internacional De Catalunya Fundacio Privada Sistema para evaluacion y tratamiento de la columna cervical
WO2023062264A1 (es) * 2021-10-15 2023-04-20 Universitat Internacional De Catalunya, Fundació Privada Sistema para evaluación y tratamiento de la columna cervical

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