Patent ID: 8696610
Filing Date: 2014-04-15
Classification: A61F,A61N

Abstract:
1. A magnetorheological (MAR) medical brace, comprising: a flexible outer shell having an ergonomic shape adapted to be wrapped around an area of a user's anatomy, the shell having an inherent degree of stiffness; a plurality of adjustable connectors attached to the shell for securing the shell on the user's anatomy; at least one MAR pack disposed inside the outer shell, the at least one MAR pack being filled with magnetorheological material, the at least one MAR pack having an inherent degree of stiffness; a plurality of magnet packs attached to the shell at spaced locations, each magnet pack having a magnet capable of exerting a magnetic field of a predetermined strength, the magnets exposing the MAR pack to magnetic field forces adjustably stiffening or loosening the magnetorheological material; and means for selectively adjusting the magnetic field strength of the magnets; wherein selective adjustment of the magnetic field strength of the magnets increases or decreases the degree of stiffness of the shell to thereby provide adjustable rigidity for optimum healing and support.