Segmented Rib Protector for Stenosing Tenosynovitis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional protectors for stenosing tenosynovitis either lack stability and protection due to being made of fabric or cause discomfort and skin abrasions due to their rigid, inflexible design.
Innovation Solution
A protector comprising a shell member with ribs and through holes for flexibility, combined with a softer lining for comfort, and an optional reinforcing frame for enhanced structural strength and protection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a hard shell protector is used, then protection and support are improved, but flexibility and comfort deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The shell member is divided into multiple ribs that are spaced apart, creating a segmented structure. This segmentation allows the protector to maintain structural strength while providing flexibility and movement space between the ribs, resolving the contradiction between protection and flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a shell member with a specific thickness that is not too thin to provide protection but not too thick to cause discomfort. The shell is designed to be sufficiently thin to allow flexibility and comfort while maintaining adequate strength for protection.
2Strength
If a hard shell protector is used, then protection is improved, but skin comfort deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
A lining is introduced as an intermediary layer between the hard shell member and the skin. This lining softens the contact surface, preventing skin abrasions while allowing the hard shell to provide structural protection. The lining acts as a mediator that resolves the contradiction between protection and skin comfort.
3Ease of operation
If a fabric sleeve is used, then comfort is improved, but protection and stability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The protector combines two different materials: a hard shell member for protection and a soft lining material for comfort. This composite structure integrates the advantages of both materials, providing both protection and comfort simultaneously, thereby resolving the contradiction between comfort and protection.
4Ease of operation
If the shell member is made thinner, then flexibility and comfort are improved, but structural strength deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The shell member is segmented into multiple ribs that provide structural strength. This segmentation allows the shell to be sufficiently thin for flexibility while the rib structure maintains adequate structural strength, resolving the contradiction between thickness, flexibility, and strength.
Data Source
AI summary
A protector for stenosing tenosynovitis is provided, including: a shell member, including a plurality of ribs defining a plurality of through holes through the shell member in a thickness direction and a plurality of channels transverse to the plurality of through holes; and an lining, attached to an inner side of the shell member, the lining being softer than the shell member. As a result, it is lightweight, comfortable to wear, and has good structural strength and protection.