Foldable Splint With Living Hinges For Rigid Immobilization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing splints are either cumbersome and heavy when not in use or too flimsy when in use, lack versatility, and are often designed for one-time use, leading to issues with storage, portability, and the risk of missing components.
Innovation Solution
A foldable immobilization device with a main body and panels connected by living hinges, allowing for multiple configurations from flat to stowable, providing strength and rigidity through segment folding, and securement using holes and fasteners for versatile deployment and storage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If existing splints are designed to be rigid and durable for use, then strength and reliability are improved, but the splints become cumbersome and heavy for storage and transport
Solution Approach 1:
The splint is divided into multiple panels and segments that can be folded relative to each other. The main body includes one or more panels with living hinges, and each panel includes two or more segments with living hinges, allowing the structure to be segmented for compact folding while maintaining strength when deployed
Solution Approach 2:
The panels and segments are designed to fold over one another in a nested configuration for storage. In the stowable configuration, the panels are folded over one another to minimize the surface area of the main body, creating a compact form factor that reduces weight and storage space requirements
2Weight of stationary object
If existing splints are made compact for storage, then portability is improved, but they become too flimsy to provide adequate immobilization when in use
Solution Approach 1:
The splint transitions dynamically between a compact stowable configuration and a rigid deployed configuration. The living hinges enable the structure to change from a folded, portable state to a rigid, immobilizing state, adapting the structural properties based on operational needs
Solution Approach 2:
The segmented structure with multiple panels and segments allows the splint to achieve rigidity when deployed while remaining compact when folded. The segments can be positioned at various angles to provide the necessary structural support for immobilization
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate splint components are used to provide versatility, then adaptability is improved, but the complexity of the system increases and components may be lost
Solution Approach 1:
The splint is designed as a universal device that can be configured for multiple immobilization scenarios. The main body can be moved to various deployed configurations with panels at different angles (0-180 degrees) to accommodate different limb positions and injury types, eliminating the need for multiple specialized splints
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple splint functions and configurations are merged into a single integrated device. The foldable main body with adjustable panels and segments combines multiple immobilization capabilities in one unit, reducing system complexity and the risk of missing components
4Ease of manufacture
If existing splints are designed for one-time use, then ease of manufacture is improved, but durability and cost-effectiveness worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The splint is designed to be reused rather than discarded after one use. The durable construction with foldable panels and segments allows the device to be collapsed for storage and reused multiple times, recovering the value of the device and reducing waste
Data Source
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AI summary
A foldable splint and method of use is provided. The foldable splint includes a main body divided into a plurality of panels and segments by a grid of living hinges. Each panel includes opposed first and second outer segments and a plurality of inner segments extending therebetween. By folding the main body along segment hinges, the splint is moved to a first rigid configuration for securing an appendage in a straight configuration. By further folding the splint at opposed pinch locations, the splint is moved to a second rigid configuration for securing an appendage in a bent configuration. By folding the splint along panel hinges, the splint is moved to a third rigid configuration for securing around an abdomen or pelvis of a user. When not in use, the splint can be moved back to the stowable configuration by folding the various panels over each other.