Segmented Filament Testing Device for Medical Force Measurement
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing filament testing devices for medical applications are large, bulky, and unwieldy, making them difficult to use and manufacture efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A sheet layer with perforations and score lines allows for easy separation and assembly of panels to create a compact filament testing device, where a filament is placed between panels and retained using adhesive, enabling quick and cost-effective manufacturing and use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional filament testing devices are used, then the device provides standardized force measurement capability, but the device becomes large, bulky, and unwieldy
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into separate functional components: a handle portion, a filament portion with predefined deflection resistance, and a scale portion. These segments can be manufactured independently and assembled, allowing the device to maintain measurement precision while reducing overall bulk and improving maneuverability.
Solution Approach 2:
The critical measurement function is extracted into a simple filament element with predefined deflection resistance, separating the force-sensing mechanism from the bulkier housing and support structures. This allows the essential measurement capability to be maintained with minimal material, reducing device volume while preserving functionality.
2Measurement precision
If traditional filament testing devices are used, then the device provides standardized force measurement capability, but the device becomes difficult to manufacture efficiently
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the device into handle, filament, and scale portions, each component can be manufactured using optimized processes for that specific part. The filament can be produced with controlled deflection resistance through specialized techniques, while the handle and scale can be mass-produced using conventional molding or fabrication methods, overall improving manufacturing efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The filament's deflection resistance is predetermined through manufacturing parameter control (such as material composition, diameter, length, or heat treatment), allowing precise force measurement capability to be built into the component during production rather than requiring complex calibration assemblies, thereby simplifying manufacturing.
3Measurement precision
If traditional filament testing devices are used, then the device provides standardized force measurement capability, but the device is unwieldy and difficult to use
Solution Approach 1:
The segmented design creates a compact handle portion that is easy to grip and maneuver, separate from the measurement filament. This separation allows the user to hold a lightweight, ergonomic handle while the filament extends only as needed for skin contact, improving ease of operation while maintaining measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The essential measurement function is extracted into a thin, flexible filament that can easily reach and contact the skin surface without requiring a bulky device body. This extraction allows the measurement capability to be delivered through a minimal, agile structure that is straightforward to position and operate on patients.
Data Source
AI summary
A device (901) is manufactured from a sheet layer (100) defining a plurality of panels (101,102,103). Each panel is connected to at least one other panel along a common edge (104). A perforation (105) extends along the common edge and defines a separation location allowing the each panel to be separated from adjoining panels when an applied force pulls each panel away from the adjoining panels. A score line (115) bisects each panel and is oriented orthogonally with the perforation. The score line allows a first portion (116) of each panel to fold about the score line to abut a second portion (117) of each panel. An adhesive (501), disposed along the first portion, retains the first portion to the second portion, as well as retains the filament between the first portion and the second portion.