Efficiency and comfort of knee braces: A parametric study based on computational modelling

TL;DR

This study uses finite element modeling and experimental design to analyze how different knee brace parameters affect their mechanical efficiency and comfort, aiming to optimize design for better patient compliance.

Contribution

It introduces a computational approach to evaluate and optimize knee brace designs considering both mechanical performance and comfort.

Findings

Larger brace size and stiffer textiles improve mechanical stability.

Enhanced stiffness can reduce comfort, indicating a trade-off.

Computational modeling enables testing of novel brace designs efficiently.

Abstract

Knee orthotic devices are widely proposed by physicians and medical practitioners for preventive or therapeutic objectives in relation with their effects, usually known as to stabilize joint or restrict ranges of motion. This study focuses on the understanding of force transfer mechanisms from the brace to the joint thanks to a Finite Element Model. A Design Of Experiments approach was used to characterize the stiffness and comfort of various braces in order to identify their mechanically influent characteristics. Results show conflicting behavior: influent parameters such as the brace size or textile stiffness improve performance in detriment of comfort. Thanks to this computational tool, novel brace designs can be tested and evaluated for an optimal mechanical efficiency of the devices and a better compliance of the patient to the treatment.