Exo-Tech
Self-Inflating Back Brace
2025
Disciplines: Industrial Design, Healthcare and 3D visualization.
Self-Inflating Back Brace
2025
Disciplines: Industrial Design, Healthcare and 3D visualization.
Issue:
The amount of forces through the cervical spine are doubled if your head is one inch forward.
Design:
Designed to be worn to keep the user's spine aligned, so any additional weight is distributed evenly and reduces the risk of the most common back injuries due to muscular overuse.
A Novel Device
Lumbar support helps put the seat occupant in a position that supports correct posture.
Mechanism: Power lumbar support systems typically consist of a set of inflatable or adjustable bolsters and cushions within the seat back. Microelectromechanical sensors measure angular velocity to detect rotation, utilizing principles of angular momentum to maintain orientation and changes in direction.
Prototyping & Fit
Dozens of iterations of every part of the brace were prototyped, tested and refined to optimize assembly and functionality of the brace.
Function
The brace supports the body using sensors that detect spine misalignment that inflates or deflates the bladder to encourage the user to move properly through repetitive movement.
The user is able to maintain natural alignment and activate proper muscle groups while lifting, thus injury is less likely to occur.
Exo-tech consists of Molded thermoplastic polymer nylon fabric for flexibility and withstand temperatures up to 500 degree fahrenheit.