Design and analysis of a shell mechanism based two-fold force controlled scoliosis brace

Abstract

In this paper a first iteration of a new scoliosis brace design and correction strategy is presented using compliant shell mechanisms to create both motion and correction. The motion profile of the human spine was found using a segmented motion capture approach. The brace was designed for a case study using a conceptual ellipsoid design approach. The force controlled correction profile was re-invented using a two fold zero and positive stiffness profile. These force generators were built and validated to prove their zero stiffness characteristic. The kinematic part of the brace was detail designed with the correct order of magnitude and validated through their force-deflection characteristic. The end result was a first iteration of a new brace validated and analysed on some critical components which can form the basis for a future biomechanical study.