Modular Shoulder Wedge System for Adjustable External Rotation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Shoulder surgeries often require immobilization of the shoulder joint for healing, but existing methods do not allow for adequate adjustment of external rotation, which can limit the range of motion and recovery outcomes.
Innovation Solution
A modular arm sling system with an abduction pillow and external rotation wedges using VELCRO fasteners, allowing for adjustable external rotation of the shoulder joint by varying the angle of the wedges, enabling gradual increase in external rotation during the healing process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single position is used for shoulder immobilization during the entire healing process, then the shoulder joint is properly immobilized for healing, but the range of motion and external rotation are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The abduction pillow is divided into multiple wedge segments with different angles (0°, 15°, 30°, 45°) that can be independently selected and attached. This segmentation allows the device to provide varying degrees of external rotation without requiring a completely different device for each angle, thus improving adaptability while keeping the overall system manageable in complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular wedge system is designed to be universally applicable to different patients and healing stages. The same base abduction pillow can accommodate multiple wedge angles, making it a multi-functional device that serves both initial immobilization and progressive range of motion needs, eliminating the need for multiple specialized devices.
2Adaptability or versatility
If external rotation is increased during the healing process, then the range of motion improves, but the stability of the immobilization may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from a static immobilization device to a dynamic one where the wedge angle can be changed over time. Patients can progress from 0° to higher angles as healing permits, allowing the device to adapt to the changing stability requirements of the healing shoulder while maintaining reliable immobilization at each stage.
Solution Approach 2:
The external rotation angle parameter can be systematically changed from 0° to 15°, 30°, 45° as the shoulder heals. This controlled parameter change allows progressive increase in range of motion while maintaining stability, as each angle increment can be selected based on the patient's healing progress and stability needs.
3Ease of operation
If a modular wedge system with VELCRO fasteners is used, then ease of adjustment and patient comfort improve, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The wedge components are manufactured as separate, standardized segments that can be produced using simple molding techniques. Each wedge is an independent piece with VELCRO attachment points, allowing for straightforward manufacturing of individual components that are then assembled into the complete system, balancing ease of operation with manufacturing simplicity.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables precise adjustment of external rotation, promoting better recovery and range of motion post-surgery by allowing for incremental increases in external rotation, accommodating individual patient anatomy and needs.
Implementation Method 1
The external rotation wedge is preferably fastened to the abduction pillow using VELCRO fasteners so that it can be easily removed and replaced.
Data Source
AI summary
A modular sling and pillow system for setting an appropriate abduction angle and external rotation angle in a shoulder joint. The patient's forearm is secured in a sling. An abduction pillow is fastened to the patient's side, just above the waist and facing the elbow contained within the sling. An appropriate external rotation wedge is then attached to the abduction pillow. The external rotation wedge is preferably fastened to the abduction pillow using VELCRO fasteners so that it can be easily removed and replaced. The abduction pillow pivots the upper arm outward. The external rotation wedge rotates the upper arm by moving the wrist out away from the body. The sling is attached to the external rotation wedge so that an integral brace comprising the sling, the external rotation wedge, and the abduction pillow is created.