Low-Profile Dynamic Extension Splint for Spasticity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Individuals with flexor spasticity face difficulties in extending their fingers or thumb due to existing dynamic extension splints being bulky, unreliable, and not suitable for everyday use, as they often break and require frequent adjustments.
Innovation Solution
A low-profile dynamic extension splint designed without springs, wires, or rubber bands, utilizing a glove with a thumb jacket and flexible outrigger to bias fingers into an open position, made from durable and cost-effective materials, allowing for customization and improved dexterity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional dynamic extension splints use rubber bands, springs, or exposed straps to provide extension force, then the splint can achieve the desired finger extension function, but the device becomes unreliable as these components frequently break and require replacement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the unreliable rubber bands, springs, and exposed straps from the splint design. Instead, it uses the intrinsic elastic properties of the glove material itself to provide the extension force, eliminating the components that frequently break and require replacement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the material parameters by selecting a glove material with specific elastic properties that can provide the necessary extension force. The elastic modulus and tensile strength of the glove material are optimized to replace the function of traditional mechanical spring or rubber band systems.
2Ease of operation
If traditional dynamic extension splints are designed with high profile outriggers and bulky structures, then they can provide sufficient extension force, but the splint becomes awkward for everyday use and socially embarrassing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a thin, flexible glove as the primary structure instead of bulky rigid outriggers. The glove material provides the necessary extension force through its elastic properties while maintaining a low profile that is comfortable for everyday wear and socially acceptable.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the glove material with strategic placement of rigid components (such as a rigid plate on the dorsal surface) to create a composite structure that provides sufficient extension force while maintaining a low-profile, comfortable design.
3Adaptability or versatility
If traditional dynamic extension splints are custom-made in clinics or purchased from specialized catalogues, then they can be tailored to individual needs, but the cost and accessibility become limiting factors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a universal splint system based on a standard glove that can be adapted to different hand sizes and conditions. The glove itself serves as the primary structural component, and customization is achieved through simple modifications rather than complex manufacturing processes, making the device inexpensive and widely accessible.
4Device complexity
If the splint uses a low-profile design with minimal components, then it becomes comfortable for everyday use, but the structural complexity must be reduced to only essential elements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the structural support function and the extension force generation function into a single integrated system. The glove provides both the structural framework and the elastic recovery force, eliminating the need for separate adjustment mechanisms and reducing the total number of components while maintaining reliability.
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
The splint effectively trains individuals to grasp and release objects of varying sizes, enhancing daily activities by providing a durable, low-profile solution that minimizes social and physical impacts, with clinical trials showing significant improvement in gripping abilities.
Implementation Method 1
a durable, inexpensive, and low-profile solution to designing a splint capable of extending an individual's fingers
Data Source
AI summary
A low profile dynamic extension splint for biasing a person's fingers and/or a thumb in an open position.