Modular Splint Assembly with Rigid and Flexible Axes
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Solution Overview
Problem
First responders face challenges in immobilizing broken bones in remote areas due to limited access to appropriate splinting materials and the need for rapid, versatile, and portable solutions for various injury types and locations.
Innovation Solution
A splint assembly comprising a first section with a rigid dimensional axis and at least one flexible dimensional axis, combined with a second section that can articulate and be coupled with the first section, along with attachment members and elongated strap members for adjustable support, allowing for quick configuration to accommodate different body parts and injuries.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate splinting materials are carried for different injury types and locations, then the versatility and adaptability of the splinting solution is improved, but the weight and bulk of equipment increases
Solution Approach 1:
The splint assembly is designed as a universal device that can be adapted to treat various types of injuries at different body locations. The modular configuration with multiple sections and adjustable components allows a single splint to function for arm, leg, wrist, ankle, and other injuries, eliminating the need to carry multiple specialized splinting materials.
Solution Approach 2:
The splint is divided into multiple separable sections (first section, second section, third section) that can be independently positioned and configured. This segmentation allows the splint to be adapted to different injury locations and types while maintaining a compact form when not in use, reducing the overall weight and bulk compared to multiple complete splints.
2Reliability
If traditional rigid splints are used to ensure stable immobilization, then the reliability of bone immobilization is improved, but the flexibility and ease of adaptation to different body parts decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The splint incorporates dynamic elements including flexible materials and adjustable components that allow the rigid structure to be adapted to different body contours and injury locations. The attachment members enable adjustment of angles and positions while maintaining immobilization stability, bridging the gap between rigid support and adaptive configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The splint utilizes composite construction combining rigid members (for structural stability and immobilization) with flexible materials (for adaptability and comfort). This composite approach allows the splint to maintain reliable immobilization while being adaptable to various body parts and injury types.
3Ease of operation
If a compact splint design is used to improve portability, then the ease of transport and storage is improved, but the time required to configure the splint for different injuries increases
Solution Approach 1:
The splint is provided in a pre-configured compact state with components pre-attached or pre-positioned for rapid deployment. The modular sections and attachment members are designed to be quickly assembled without requiring complex manipulation, reducing configuration time while maintaining portability.
Solution Approach 2:
The segmented modular design allows sections to be independently positioned and attached, enabling rapid configuration for different injury types without requiring complete reassembly. The standardized attachment interfaces facilitate quick connection and adjustment, reducing setup time while maintaining compact storage.
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple attachment members are used to provide adjustable support for various injuries, then the adaptability and ease of adjustment is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment members are designed as universal components that can be used in multiple configurations and positions throughout the splint assembly. This universality allows a limited number of attachment members to provide extensive adjustability for various injury types and locations, reducing the total number of unique components needed.
Data Source
AI summary
A splint assembly comprising a first section with at least one compartment and one or more rigid members positioned within the at least one compartment, the one or more rigid members providing a rigid dimensional axis and at least one flexible dimensional axis; and at least one second section configured to couple with the first section, the at least one second section comprising at least one compartment and one or more rigid members positioned within the at least one compartment, so that the at least one second section has a rigid dimensional axis and at least one flexible dimensional axis; and at least one attachment member is operatively coupled to the at least one second section.