Flexible Rescue Device for Cervical Immobilization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current rescue methods, such as the Reutex manoeuvre, inadequately immobilize accident victims' necks, pose risks of infection for rescuers, and cause discomfort during emergency vehicle extractions.
Innovation Solution
A device with an elongate, soft, and flexible body featuring tapered ends and a central thicker zone is used to immobilize the neck of accident victims, allowing for safe and efficient removal without direct contact, thereby minimizing infection risk and providing complete cervical immobilization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual rescue methods like the Reutex manoeuvre are used, then direct contact between rescuer and victim is achieved, but the risk of infection for the rescuer increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a rigid immobilization device as an intermediary tool between the rescuer and the victim. This device allows the rescuer to control and immobilize the victim's cervical spine and move the patient without direct skin-to-skin contact, thereby eliminating the infection risk while maintaining effective rescue operation capability
2Reliability
If manual rescue methods are used, then the rescuer can control the victim, but the rescuer experiences considerable discomfort and physical strain
Solution Approach 1:
The rigid immobilization device serves as a mechanical intermediary that provides stable cervical control and supports the victim's weight on the rescuer's shoulders. This eliminates the need for the rescuer to directly bear the full weight and strain, significantly improving comfort while maintaining reliable cervical immobilization
Solution Approach 2:
The device distributes and counterbalances the victim's weight through its structured design, allowing the rescuer to support the patient more easily on their shoulders without experiencing excessive physical strain or discomfort
3Productivity
If the Reutex manoeuvre is applied, then the victim can be removed from the vehicle, but the neck immobilisation is insufficient and may aggravate injuries
Solution Approach 1:
The device is designed to be applied to the victim before removal from the vehicle. The rigid structure is positioned around the victim's torso and neck area, establishing secure cervical immobilization in advance, which prevents any movement that could aggravate injuries during the subsequent removal process
Solution Approach 2:
The rigid immobilization device acts as a mechanical mediator that provides stable cervical control and supports the victim's weight on the rescuer's shoulders. This eliminates the need for the rescuer to directly bear the full weight and strain, significantly improving comfort while maintaining reliable cervical immobilization
4Force
If direct contact rescue methods are used, then the rescuer can provide support, but the risk of being injured during the rescue operation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The rigid immobilization device serves as a protective intermediary that allows the rescuer to apply support force and control the victim without direct physical contact. This creates a safety barrier that reduces the risk of the rescuer being injured by blood, bodily fluids, or sudden movements during the rescue operation
Data Source
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AI summary
The device comprises an elongate, soft, flexible body (1) provided with a central zone (2) that is thicker than two tapered ends (3). The method involves passing said central zone (2) around an accident victim's neck, crossing the tapered ends (3) over the nape of the neck and arranging same under the armpits, from front to back, such that said ends project behind the accident victim and a rescuer can pull thereon in order to move the accident victim whilst the latter's neck is immobilized.