Head-and-neck immobilization device with segmented yoke and rotatable pads
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional head-and-neck immobilization devices are ineffective in isolating patients from dynamic multi-axial shock loading and vibrations during transport, fail to provide clear access to injury sites, and are not easily adjustable to fit a variety of individuals, leading to increased risk of further injury and discomfort.
Innovation Solution
A head-and-neck immobilization device featuring a yoke that contacts the back and shoulders with adjustable straps and rotatable head immobilization pads, designed to minimize contact area and allow for secure, adjustable fitting, using materials like carbon fiber composite and medical-grade foam to provide stability and comfort while reducing pressure sores and improving access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional head-and-neck immobilization devices are used, then the head and neck are immobilized, but the contact area is large causing pressure ulcerations and the device is not easily adjustable to fit various individuals
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by using foam padding only at specific contact points (head pads and shoulder yoke areas) rather than covering the entire head and neck. This localized cushioning provides pressure relief at critical areas while maintaining minimal overall contact, preventing pressure ulcerations while preserving immobilization effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The device incorporates adjustable straps and modular components that allow dynamic adaptation to different patient sizes and injury conditions. The selective rigidity features enable the immobilization device to transition between flexible during application and rigid during immobilization, optimizing both comfort and effectiveness for various individuals.
2Reliability
If conventional head-and-neck immobilization devices are used, then the head and neck are immobilized, but the device obstructs most of the head reducing caregiver access to injury sites
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the immobilization device into separate components: a shoulder yoke, head pads, and chin pad, rather than using a single encompassing structure. This segmentation allows caregivers to access different parts of the patient's head and neck independently while maintaining immobilization, improving ease of operation without compromising reliability.
3Reliability
If conventional head-and-neck immobilization devices are used, then some level of immobilization is provided, but the device cannot effectively isolate the patient from dynamic multi-axial shock loading and vibrations during transport
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates foam padding at contact points before the patient is subjected to shock and vibration during transport. This beforehand cushioning absorbs and dampens dynamic multi-axial shock loading and vibrations, protecting the patient's head and neck from harmful forces while maintaining the necessary immobilization level.
Data Source
AI summary
Head-and-neck immobilization devices may include a yoke sized and shaped to contact a person's back and shoulders. Straps may extend from the yoke, the straps configured to secure the yoke to the person's torso. Two head immobilization pads may be sized and shaped to respectively contact opposing sides of the person's head, each of the two head immobilization pads connected to the yoke by a respective selectively rotatable, selectively rigid connection. A majority of the person's head may remain unobstructed by the head-and-neck immobilization device when the two head immobilization pads contact the two opposing sides of the person's head and are rigidly secured in place to immobilize the person's neck and head.