Spinal Board Handling with Segmented Grips and Asymmetric Straps
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing spinal boards face difficulties in handling due to tight spaces making it hard for rescuers to grip securely and induce torsional stresses on the neck from unilateral tensioning of anchoring straps during rescue operations.
Innovation Solution
A spinal immobilization board with an upper slot for easy handling, a padded portion for head support, elastic apical anchoring straps for secure head positioning, and lifting handles positioned on an anatomical triangle for secure body alignment, along with a floating mechanism for water rescue, to facilitate safe and secure handling and transport.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional through openings are used for gripping, then the board structure is simple, but rescuers cannot hold on securely in tight spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The board is segmented with multiple through openings positioned at specific locations (head end, torso level, leg end) to provide multiple gripping points. This segmentation allows rescuers to grasp the board securely at different positions, solving the problem of inadequate grip in tight spaces while maintaining structural simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary gripping mechanism where rescuers can insert their hands through the through openings to grasp the board from both sides. This intermediary approach provides secure bilateral gripping, enhancing control and stability during patient handling in confined spaces.
2Reliability
If anchoring straps are tensioned unilaterally to secure the head, then the head is constrained to the board, but torsional stresses are induced on the patient's neck
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs asymmetric anchoring strap configurations with different attachment points and tensioning mechanisms on each side of the head. This asymmetric design allows for balanced bilateral tensioning that secures the head to the board while distributing forces evenly to prevent torsional stresses on the neck.
Solution Approach 2:
The anchoring straps incorporate adjustable tensioning parameters with independent control on each side. This allows rescuers to adjust the tension magnitude and distribution to achieve secure head constraint while minimizing harmful torsional forces by optimizing the force parameters applied to each strap.
3Strength
If the board has high rigidity to maintain shape under heavy loads, then structural stability is improved, but handling in tight spaces becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The board incorporates dynamic handling features including multiple through openings and strategically positioned gripping portions that allow rescuers to adapt their grip and maneuvering technique based on the specific spatial constraints. This dynamic interaction between the rigid structure and flexible handling methods enables effective operation in tight spaces while maintaining structural rigidity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds dimensional versatility by positioning through openings and gripping portions at multiple heights and locations across the board surface. This multi-dimensional arrangement of gripping points allows rescuers to select optimal grip positions that accommodate various spatial constraints, enabling effective handling in tight spaces without compromising the board's structural rigidity.
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
Enhances handling and transport safety by reducing the risk of accidental impacts and torsional stresses, ensuring secure immobilization of the head, neck, and torso, while allowing for optimal tension adjustment and improved safety in water rescues.
Implementation Method 1
The apical anchoring strap 5 is made of elasticized material, for example: elastic silicone, adapted to make known the force applied for compression corresponding to the different cranial diameters. Advantageously, the apical anchoring strap 5 is reversibly configurable between a rest configuration and an elongated configuration in which it adapts to the person's head by changing its length so as to firmly secure the latter.
Implementation Method 2
The board 1 comprises a floating means adapted to generate a hydrostatic thrust that is greater than the weight of the board 1, so as to promote floating of the board 1 in water.
Data Source
AI summary
A spinal immobilization board (1) comprising a support body (2) adapted to support the torso and the head of a person; at least one apical anchoring strap (5) configured to secure the head of the person; and an anchoring belt (9) configured to secure a portion of the torso of the person. The board (1) further comprises a gripping means (11) comprising a first and a second lifting handle (12, 13) that are arranged in a respective perimeter portion of the board (1) and extend outwardly from the board. The first and second lifting handles (12, 13) are active on a portion of the board (1) adapted to be arranged near the armpits of the person in a handling condition of the board (1).