Knee Brace
The proposed rehabilitative functional hinged knee brace is designed to offer optimal support and protection for individuals recovering from knee injuries, surgeries, or chronic conditions like osteoarthritis. The concept focuses on utilizing a lightweight yet durable frame made from composite materials such as carbon fiber or aluminum, ensuring the brace is robust and comfortable for extended wear. The brace will feature an adjustable strapping system that allows for a customized fit, ensuring even load distribution across the knee joint while enhancing stability.



Four Point Leverage

The four-point system was developed to reduce the strain on the ACL. The system accomplishes this by pre-loading the tibia posteriorly (backward).

Point 1: Anchors the femur with a cuff at the anterior thigh.

Point 2: Anchors the tibia with a cuff placed at the posterior or bottom of the calf.

Point 3: Using a strap on the posterior thigh, the femur is pushed to the anterior, making the hinges back on the knee.

Point 4: Bring the hinges back to midline using a strap on the anterior tibia, creating a posterior pre-load on the tibia and reducing the strain on the ACL.


Compression Sleeves
In addition to stabilization, compression serves another critical function—enhancing blood flow and reducing swelling. Following injury or surgery, the knee often experiences inflammation and fluid accumulation. The compression of strategically placed straps promotes fluid drainage and helps prevent excessive swelling. It also improves circulation, delivering oxygen and nutrients to the affected area, which aids in tissue healing and pain reduction. The adjustable strap configuration ensures that the compression is evenly distributed and prevents the brace from migrating during movement, providing consistent support throughout the recovery process.


At the design's core are ratchet hinges, which allow for precise control over the range of motion of the knee joint. They can be designed to permit movement in set increments, which is beneficial for rehabilitation purposes where gradual progression is essential. The locking feature of ratchet hinges ensures that the knee brace can maintain a specific angle during rehabilitation exercises. This prevents unwanted movement and provides stability, which is crucial for patients recovering from knee injuries or surgeries.