Non-Invasive Limb Stabilizer with Adjustable Clamping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing limb positioning devices are invasive, risking infection and are not easily or repeatably adjustable, particularly for a wide range of limb diameters.
Innovation Solution
A non-invasive limb stabilizer with a pair of stabilizing devices featuring adjustable clamping members and spacing members, allowing lateral adjustment and stabilization of limbs without piercing the skin, using mechanisms like slots, guide pins, and ratcheting systems for easy and repeatable positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If invasive fixation devices with pins and clamps are used to stabilize the limb, then the limb stabilization is effective, but the risk of infection increases and antibiotics must be administered
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the invasive pins and clamps from the limb stabilization system, extracting the harmful element while retaining the essential function of limb stabilization through an external non-invasive apparatus that applies pressure and support without penetrating the skin
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary external fixation apparatus that mediates between the need for limb stabilization and the desire to avoid infection, using a removable external device with padding and framing structures that provide support without direct skin penetration
2Adaptability or versatility
If adjustable limb engaging elements are used to accommodate different limb diameters, then the adaptability improves, but the adjustment mechanism becomes complex and difficult to operate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic adjustment mechanisms including telescoping members that can be easily extended or retracted, and movable framing members that can be repositioned along rails, allowing patients to adapt the device to different limb sizes through simple manual operations rather than complex procedures
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the adjustment function into separate modular components, with independent telescoping members and movable framing elements that can be adjusted separately, making the overall adjustment process simpler and more user-friendly while maintaining adaptability to various limb diameters
3Adaptability or versatility
If dual limb immobilizers with laterally adjustable embracing elements are used, then the adaptability to different limb positions improves, but the adjustments are not easily made or repeated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms such as detent features and indexed positioning systems that provide tactile and visual confirmation of adjustment positions, enabling patients to make precise and repeatable adjustments while maintaining adaptability to different limb positions
Solution Approach 2:
The patent includes pre-configured adjustment ranges and pre-positioned components that allow patients to easily make adjustments within predetermined safe limits, reducing the complexity of adjustment operations while maintaining versatility in positioning
Data Source
AI summary
A limb stabilizing device includes a base, a first clamping member adjustably mounted to the base, and a second clamping member mounted in an opposed relationship with the first clamping member. The first clamping member includes a first adjustment mechanism that operates to allow the first clamping member to slide laterally along the base and to maintain the first and second clamping members in lateral alignment.