Orthopaedic Immobilizer Structure for Swelling and Rigid Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current orthopaedic products for fractures and breaks lack a prefabricated solution that can provide immediate immobilization, are not rigid enough for complete immobilization, require multiple applications due to swelling, and are not suitable for emergency situations, leading to increased costs and inconvenience.
Innovation Solution
Development of orthopaedic immobilizers that transition from a splint to a cast seamlessly, are rigid, water-resistant, hypoallergenic, and allow restrictive operative movements, featuring a two-part design with breathable openings, rotor units for adjustable motion, and locking mechanisms for secure fit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a rigid cast is applied for complete immobilization, then immobilization effectiveness is improved, but the cast cannot accommodate swelling and requires multiple applications
Solution Approach 1:
The cast incorporates a dynamic adjustment mechanism with multiple positioning holes and an adjustable component that allows the cast to be tightened or loosened. This enables the cast to accommodate changes in limb circumference due to swelling while maintaining secure immobilization, resolving the contradiction between rigidity and adaptability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a splint is used to accommodate swelling, then adaptability is improved, but the splint is not rigid enough for complete immobilization
Solution Approach 1:
The cast combines a rigid base material with adjustable fastening components and positioning mechanisms. This composite structure provides the necessary rigidity for complete immobilization while incorporating adjustable elements that allow accommodation of swelling, thus resolving the contradiction between rigidity and adaptability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple casts are applied due to swelling reduction, then adaptability is improved, but treatment cost and time are increased
Solution Approach 1:
The cast is designed as a universal solution that can accommodate different stages of healing, from initial swelling to complete immobilization. The adjustable mechanism allows a single cast to serve multiple functions throughout the treatment process, eliminating the need for multiple cast applications and reducing treatment time and cost.
4Ease of operation
If a cast is cut open for examination, then ease of operation is improved, but the cast structure is compromised and requires replacement
Solution Approach 1:
The cast incorporates transparent windows or observation ports that segment the cast structure to allow visual examination of the underlying area. This segmentation enables medical practitioners to monitor healing progress without compromising the overall integrity and stability of the cast structure.
Data Source
AI summary
Orthopaedic immobilizers 100 that help in infliction relief, healing and rehabilitation and allow restrictive operative movements. These include bicep unit 130, forearm unit 140, full arm unit 150, formed by connecting bicep unit 130 with the forearm unit 140 with the help of a rotor unit 116 and ankle unit 160. The immobilizers 100 consist of two separate independent parts-first part 102 and the second part 104 that are locked together by locking means that facilitates tightening or loosening around the anatomy of body part where it is used for. The parts 102, 104 have a plurality of slots for the locking means 106 on the edge surfaces and they consist of plurality of breathable openings 114 that allow for the observations and examination without any need to open or slit the immobilizer 100 and they have a medical grade foam padding on the internal lining.