Hand Elevation Device with Neck Strap and Forearm Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Patients often fail to maintain the therapeutic position of elevating their hand above the heart level post-surgery, leading to delayed recovery due to discomfort and issues like joint pain and poor circulation, necessitating a device that can comfortably and effectively support the hand and wrist in this position.
Innovation Solution
A hand elevation device with a forearm support and neck strap system that allows adjustable positioning of the hand above the elevation line, featuring adjustable straps, a cushion for comfort, and optional thermal device integration, enabling easy use with either arm and minimizing discomfort.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a hand elevation device is used to maintain therapeutic position, then swelling reduction and circulation improvement are achieved, but device complexity and comfort issues arise
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into separate functional components: a neck strap assembly for support, a forearm support component for positioning, and optional thermal device integration. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function effectively while simplifying the overall system and making it easier to adjust and maintain.
Solution Approach 2:
The neck strap assembly serves multiple functions: supporting the weight of the arm, positioning the forearm support at the correct angle, and providing a mounting structure for optional thermal devices. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, simplifying the overall device structure while maintaining therapeutic effectiveness.
2Ease of operation
If adjustable positioning features are added to improve comfort, then ease of operation increases, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates adjustable straps with buckles that allow dynamic repositioning of the forearm support and neck strap. This dynamic adjustment capability enables users to customize the fit and positioning for comfort while maintaining the therapeutic elevation angle, without requiring complex mechanical adjustment mechanisms.
3Reliability
If thermal device integration is included to enhance therapy, then therapeutic effectiveness improves, but device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The neck strap assembly is designed to accommodate both simple mechanical support functions and optional thermal therapy functions. The integrated design allows the same structural components to serve dual purposes, enabling thermal device integration without requiring entirely separate mounting structures or complex manufacturing processes.
Data Source
AI summary
A hand elevation device is described that can position and secure a recovering hand and/or wrist for improved recovery. For example, the hand elevation device can secure a hand and/or wrist that has been operated on or injured in a therapeutic position. The therapeutic position can include the hand being positioned above an elevation line. The elevation line can include a horizontal line that intersects the heart of the user wearing the hand elevation device.