What it does
iBrace Clip is a smart upgrade kit specifically designed for scoliosis braces, capable of easily converting standard orthoses into intelligent devices with pressure sensing functionality.
Your inspiration
Scoliosis in Chinese youth has become a pressing health issue with 3 million affected children and 300,000 new cases annually. The global scoliosis orthosis market was valued at $2.08B in 2023 and is projected to reach $3.03B by 2032 (4.27% CAGR), reflecting growing demand. Current braces face key limitations: 1. No real-time pressure monitoring. 2. Static design – Fails to adapt to growth or posture changes . 3. Subjective adjustments, risking ineffective force application. iBrace Clip Advantage: 1. Real-time posture tracking. 2. APP-powered force analytics. 3. Data-driven brace optimization.
How it works
iBrace Clip consists of two parts: a large-area pressure sensing unit and a reading module. The pressure sensing unit can accurately capture pressure changes inside the orthosis, while the data storage unit is responsible for storing pressure data and uploading it to the APP. Equipped with a replaceable rechargeable power source, this data storage unit allows for convenient charging at any time. It also features two indicator lights, which intuitively display the data reading status through different colors, promptly reminding users whether charging is needed and whether data reading is successful. How to Use: First, prepare the user's scoliosis orthosis. Next, peel off the adhesive backing of the sensing unit and stick it flat on the curved surface inside the orthosis. Then, connect the sensing unit to the reading module. After that, the user can put on the modified orthosis and monitor the dynamic changes in orthopedic force in real-time through the APP.
Design process
Through user research with patients, families, and medical professionals, we identified key challenges in scoliosis bracing: correction inaccuracy, low compliance due to discomfort, and poor doctor-patient communication. This led to our smart monitoring system, iBrace Clip. We developed flexible pressure sensors with edge-notching for curved surfaces and a matrix wiring design to simplify data collection. The system includes custom PCBs for real-time monitoring and an interactive app with visual feedback to engage adolescent users. Final testing focused on usability, ensuring iBrace Clip is both a precision medical tool and a patient-friendly solution that blends technology with empathetic care.
How it is different
iBrace Clip revolutionizes scoliosis treatment by embedding flexible pressure sensors into traditional braces, enabling real-time pressure monitoring that X-rays cannot provide. Its innovative suspended cutting design ensures perfect sensor conformity to complex curvatures. This non-invasive add-on transforms standard braces into smart devices at low cost. The companion app tracks wear time, pressure distribution, and rehabilitation progress through intuitive visualizations, significantly improving patient compliance while giving doctors valuable treatment insights. By bridging the gap between traditional bracing and smart technology, iBrace Clip makes advanced corrective care more accessible and data-driven.
Future plans
Expand applications and deepen usability testing for smart spinal orthopedics. It will explore sports rehab and long-term posture correction, integrating dynamic capture and biomechanics for multifunctional devices—moving beyond static correction to full-cycle care (scoliosis, teen posture), upgrading equipment. Clinically, larger samples (varying severity/ages) with long-term follow-ups will verify stability, comfort and efficacy, optimizing tech for clinic use. Market: partner with top hospitals. Retain "low-cost kit" strengths with basic (pressure monitoring, reminders) and advanced (remote supervision, plans) versions.
Awards
The development of this product received clinical expertise support from spine specialists at Renji Hospital, affiliated with Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine.
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