Adjustable Limb Stabilization With Flexible Slabs for Swelling Changes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing limb stabilization devices, such as plaster casts and orthopedic supports, are bulky, inflexible, and lack adjustability, leading to discomfort, skin irritation, and inadequate support, particularly for fractures and sprains, and often require multiple materials and labor-intensive application processes.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable limb stabilization device comprising a lateral slab made of flexible materials like silicone rubber, with a hook-and-loop fastener and customizable connector assembly, allowing for adjustable support and infusion of hardenable materials for uniform pressure and ventilation, while being non-opaque and user-friendly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If plaster casts are used to stabilize the limb, then the limb is supported and immobilized, but the cast becomes heavy, bulky, and uncomfortable for the patient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a flexible foam material that can be wrapped around the limb to provide stabilization without the weight and bulk of traditional plaster casts. The foam material acts as a lightweight shell that maintains limb position while being comfortable for the patient.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines foam material with adhesive properties and incorporates reflective elements, creating a composite stabilization device that provides both mechanical support and additional functional benefits without increasing weight significantly.
2Reliability
If plaster casts are used to immobilize the limb, then the fracture is stabilized, but the cast cannot be adjusted as swelling changes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a flexible foam material that can be easily adjusted and repositioned as limb swelling changes over time. Unlike rigid plaster casts, the foam can be compressed, reshaped, and readjusted to maintain proper stabilization while adapting to changing limb dimensions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent allows for changes in the physical parameters of the stabilization device by enabling the foam to be compressed and reshaped. This permits adjustment of the device's volume and shape to accommodate swelling or shrinking of the limb while maintaining stabilization function.
3Reliability
If plaster casts are applied to provide compression, then the limb is stabilized, but the compression becomes too tight or too loose over time
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible foam material allows for dynamic adjustment of compression levels. As the limb swells or shrinks, the foam can be repositioned and reshaped to maintain appropriate compression pressure, preventing both excessive tightness and insufficient support.
4Reliability
If traditional casting materials are used, then the limb is immobilized, but the application process is time-intensive and labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible foam material can be quickly wrapped around the limb without requiring complex molding or shaping procedures. This significantly reduces the time and labor required for application compared to traditional plaster casting while maintaining effective immobilization.
5Object-affected harmful factors
If opaque casting materials are used, then the limb is covered and protected, but the skin cannot be monitored without removing the cast
Solution Approach 1:
The foam material provides skin protection while its flexible, breathable nature allows for better air circulation and reduced moisture accumulation compared to opaque plaster. The material can also be partially removed or opened to monitor skin condition without complete removal.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Provides flexible, adjustable, and comfortable support for injured limbs, allowing for easy monitoring and dressing without removal, reducing skin irritation, and ensuring uniform pressure for effective healing, suitable for fractures, sprains, and contusions.
Implementation Method 1
The lateral slab is filled with a flowable, hardenable material which is stabilized by curing with a light source or thermal curing at room temperature or by chemical reaction curing.
Implementation Method 2
a first mechanical fastener adapted to tighten and loosen the adjustable limb stabilization device
Implementation Method 3
a connector assembly adapted to pivotally adjoin the lateral slab for supporting an injured limb
Data Source
AI summary
An adjustable limb stabilization device relates to an adjustable limb stabilization device for supporting a body part. More specifically the present invention is directed to an orthosis adapted to accommodate a predetermined orientation for a body part relative to a surface. an adjustable limb stabilization device comprising of a lateral slab 1, a first mechanical fastener 2 adapted to tighten and loosen the adjustable limb stabilization device and a connector assembly 3 adapted to pivotally adjoin the lateral slab 1 for supporting an injured limb. The connector assembly 3 may be a continuously molded connecting membrane, a hinge, a crease, or any other suitable component. Moreover, a fastener mechanism connects two or more said stabilization device 100 as per requirement.