Modular Height-Adjustable Limb Support Cradle
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing limb supports are often not height and position adjustable, are too bulky for compact environments, and require a second person for operation, leading to strain on both patients and caregivers during medical procedures.
Innovation Solution
A simple, portable, height-adjustable limb support device with a cradle that can accommodate various limb positions and sizes, allowing single-person operation and reducing caregiver strain by enabling the device to be used in different environments and positions, such as on a bed, chair, or wheelchair.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a limb support device is made height-adjustable to accommodate different limb positions and patients, then the adaptability and versatility are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The support device incorporates height-adjustable features that allow the cradle to be positioned at different elevations to accommodate various limb positions and patient needs, transforming a static structure into a dynamic, adaptable system
Solution Approach 2:
The device is divided into modular components including a base, adjustable support structure, and cradle portion, allowing independent adjustment of height while maintaining overall structural simplicity
2Ease of operation
If the limb support device is made portable and compact for use in limited spaces, then the ease of operation and space efficiency are improved, but the structural strength may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The device utilizes a lightweight yet sufficiently strong structural design that provides portability while maintaining adequate strength to support limbs, balancing compactness with structural integrity
Solution Approach 2:
The support structure incorporates adjustable elements that allow the device to be compact for transport but expand or configure into a stable, strength-providing structure during use
3Adaptability or versatility
If the cradle is designed to accommodate various limb positions and sizes, then the adaptability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cradle is designed with universal adaptability to accommodate different limb positions and sizes through its geometric configuration and adjustable features, allowing a single device to serve multiple functions without requiring complex specialized mechanisms for each limb type
Data Source
AI summary
A height-adjustable support for supporting various bodily limbs over a wide range of limb positions, and in hospital rooms, doctors' offices, or other compact environments. The device permits a medical procedure to be performed by a single person while the device supports the limb. The device includes a rigid support body defining a base portion having a lower surface, and a cradle supported above the lower surface, the cradle defining a surface configured to support a limb of a patient. The rigid support body may include multiple discrete block bodies selectively joinable by complementary fasteners, so that the rigid support body is adjustable in height. The cradle may be U-shaped or otherwise concavely-shaped.