US20160074203A1 - Customizable fitted apparatus - Google Patents
Customizable fitted apparatus Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20160074203A1 US20160074203A1 US14/852,516 US201514852516A US2016074203A1 US 20160074203 A1 US20160074203 A1 US 20160074203A1 US 201514852516 A US201514852516 A US 201514852516A US 2016074203 A1 US2016074203 A1 US 2016074203A1
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- United States
- Prior art keywords
- sidewall
- connector
- longitudinal
- receiver
- seam
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
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Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61F—FILTERS IMPLANTABLE INTO BLOOD VESSELS; PROSTHESES; DEVICES PROVIDING PATENCY TO, OR PREVENTING COLLAPSING OF, TUBULAR STRUCTURES OF THE BODY, e.g. STENTS; ORTHOPAEDIC, NURSING OR CONTRACEPTIVE DEVICES; FOMENTATION; TREATMENT OR PROTECTION OF EYES OR EARS; BANDAGES, DRESSINGS OR ABSORBENT PADS; FIRST-AID KITS
- A61F5/00—Orthopaedic methods or devices for non-surgical treatment of bones or joints; Nursing devices; Anti-rape devices
- A61F5/01—Orthopaedic devices, e.g. splints, casts or braces
- A61F5/04—Devices for stretching or reducing fractured limbs; Devices for distractions; Splints
- A61F5/05—Devices for stretching or reducing fractured limbs; Devices for distractions; Splints for immobilising
- A61F5/058—Splints
- A61F5/05841—Splints for the limbs
- A61F5/05858—Splints for the limbs for the arms
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61F—FILTERS IMPLANTABLE INTO BLOOD VESSELS; PROSTHESES; DEVICES PROVIDING PATENCY TO, OR PREVENTING COLLAPSING OF, TUBULAR STRUCTURES OF THE BODY, e.g. STENTS; ORTHOPAEDIC, NURSING OR CONTRACEPTIVE DEVICES; FOMENTATION; TREATMENT OR PROTECTION OF EYES OR EARS; BANDAGES, DRESSINGS OR ABSORBENT PADS; FIRST-AID KITS
- A61F5/00—Orthopaedic methods or devices for non-surgical treatment of bones or joints; Nursing devices; Anti-rape devices
- A61F5/01—Orthopaedic devices, e.g. splints, casts or braces
- A61F5/0102—Orthopaedic devices, e.g. splints, casts or braces specially adapted for correcting deformities of the limbs or for supporting them; Ortheses, e.g. with articulations
- A61F5/0104—Orthopaedic devices, e.g. splints, casts or braces specially adapted for correcting deformities of the limbs or for supporting them; Ortheses, e.g. with articulations without articulation
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61F—FILTERS IMPLANTABLE INTO BLOOD VESSELS; PROSTHESES; DEVICES PROVIDING PATENCY TO, OR PREVENTING COLLAPSING OF, TUBULAR STRUCTURES OF THE BODY, e.g. STENTS; ORTHOPAEDIC, NURSING OR CONTRACEPTIVE DEVICES; FOMENTATION; TREATMENT OR PROTECTION OF EYES OR EARS; BANDAGES, DRESSINGS OR ABSORBENT PADS; FIRST-AID KITS
- A61F5/00—Orthopaedic methods or devices for non-surgical treatment of bones or joints; Nursing devices; Anti-rape devices
- A61F5/01—Orthopaedic devices, e.g. splints, casts or braces
- A61F5/04—Devices for stretching or reducing fractured limbs; Devices for distractions; Splints
- A61F5/05—Devices for stretching or reducing fractured limbs; Devices for distractions; Splints for immobilising
- A61F5/058—Splints
- A61F5/05841—Splints for the limbs
- A61F5/0585—Splints for the limbs for the legs
Definitions
- the present invention relates to devices, such as casts, splints, braces, and similar devices for immobilizing and stabilizing various portions of a user's body, including arms, elbows, wrists, hands, legs, knees, ankles, feet and other structures. Such devices are also used in veterinary applications and other various alternative uses.
- a cast, brace or similar device is commonly applied to immobilize the particular location of the identified body part.
- the cast or splint is commonly applied to an arm, leg, or joint, such as a knee, ankle, elbow or wrist.
- One common cast is a molded plaster or fiberglass cast formed around the location of the body part.
- a layer of padding, such as a cotton wrap, is applied around the body portion targeted and the plaster or fiberglass cast component is then applied and molded to conform to the patient's body.
- the cast is a single-use and non-removable device. While this style of casts is generally effective at immobilizing the targeted body portion and is generally inexpensive to produce, it has several limitations.
- One main limitation is that the cast is not removable.
- the cast in order to clean the targeted body portion or subsequently examine the targeted body portion, the cast must be removed and a new cast applied.
- this type of cast is non-breathable and non-waterproof. This can lead to skin irritation and other issues as well as damage to the cast when the patient encounters wet conditions.
- the present invention is directed generally to a customizable fitted device for immobilizing particular portions of a user's body.
- the device can be used to protect, stabilize, and/or immobilize the targeted body portion.
- the device can include a generally enclosed sidewall divided into one or more shell-sections.
- the shell-section(s) can be joined together and faun one or more longitudinal seams within the device sidewall.
- Each longitudinal seam can extend from the upper and lower terminal ends of the device.
- the device contains sufficient flexibility, at least in a portion of the device, to allow the sidewall to be separated along the longitudinal seam and be removed from the user without damaging or destroying the device.
- the multiple longitudinal seams enable the device to be separated and removed from the user without damaging or destroying the device, even while the sidewall is substantially rigid.
- the enclosed sidewall can have a plurality of voids defined through the sidewall.
- the plurality of voids can define structural ribs in the sidewall that maintain structural rigidity while still permitting several openings within the sidewall.
- the device can also include primary openings at the upper and lower ends of the sidewall so that the device can be applied to only a portion of the user's body, such as the lower aim or leg with other portions of the user's body protruding from the device. Additionally, the device can include secondary openings defined within the sidewall to accommodate thumbs, finger, or other body portion.
- the device can further include one or more connector receivers positioned on the longitudinal seams of the device.
- the connector receivers can be used to hold the one or more sidewall sections together along the one or more longitudinal seams.
- Each connector receiver is positioned on both portions of the sidewall adjacent to the longitudinal seam.
- each connector receiver is positioned on both sidewall sections adjacent to a longitudinal seam.
- the connector receiver can further be divided along the longitudinal seam so that one portion of the receiver remains on one side sidewall and the other portion of the receiver remains on the adjacent side of the sidewall when the sidewall is separated along the longitudinal seam.
- Each connector receiver also can include an opening or slot defined through the receiver. The opening can be configured to allow a connector or clip to be inserted through and hold the two portions of the connector receiver together.
- the one or more sidewall sections can be placed around the target area of the user so that the one or more sidewall sections meet at the one or more longitudinal seams, thereby forming an enclosed sidewall around the target area.
- the connectors or clips can then be inserted through the receiver openings and secured to holder the connector receivers together. Once all connector receivers are secured, the device forms a rigid or supporting device around the target area. The device can then be easily removed from the user by removing the connectors or clips and separating the sidewall section(s).
- FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a fitted device for immobilizing a lower arm of a user in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention
- FIG. 2 is a side perspective view of the fitted device of FIG. 1 ;
- FIG. 3 is a rear perspective view of the fitted device of FIG. 1 ;
- FIG. 4 is a side perspective view of the fitted device of FIG. 1 ;
- FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of the fitted device of FIG. 1 , illustrating a first section and a second section of the fitted device separated prior to being applied to a user's arm in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention
- FIG. 6 is a front perspective view of the fitted device of FIG. 1 , illustrating the fitted device applied to a user's arm in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention
- FIG. 7 is a front perspective view of a fitted device for immobilizing a hand of a user in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 8 is a front perspective view of the fitted device of FIG. 7 ;
- FIG. 9 is a rear perspective view of the fitted device of FIG. 7 ;
- FIG. 10 is a side perspective view of the fitted device of FIG. 7 ;
- FIG. 11 is an exploded perspective view of the fitted device of FIG. 7 , illustrating a first section and a second section of the fitted device separated prior to being applied to a user's hand in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention
- FIG. 12 is a rear perspective view of the fitted device of FIG. 7 , illustrating the fitted device applied to a user's hand in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention
- FIG. 13 is a top perspective view of a connector used to secure two sections of a fitted device in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention
- FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a connector and fitted device for immobilizing a user's hand in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, illustrating the connector inserted into a receiver slot and holding two sections of the fitted device together;
- FIG. 15 is a section plan view of the fitted device of FIG. 3 , illustrating a connector inserted into a receiver slot for holding a first section and a second section of the fitted device together;
- FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a connector and fitted device fitted device for immobilizing a user's hand in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, illustrating the connector inserted into a receiver slot and holding two end of the fitted device together.
- FIG. 1 illustrates one embodiment of the present invention, where device 10 is configured for application to a user's arm.
- FIG. 7 illustrates another embodiment of the present invention where device 10 is configured for application to a user's hand.
- device 10 can be configured for application to an arm or hand of a human user; however, device 10 can also be suitable for application to other limbs or body parts, such as a leg or foot. Additionally, device 10 as described herein may be used for animals of all types and sizes.
- Device 10 can be used to support, stabilize and/or immobilize a limb or similar target area of a user by faulting a partially enclosed structure around the target area.
- Device 10 can be formed as a substantially rigid structure without noticeable flexibility or device 10 can be formed with semi-flexible properties in all or some of device 10 depending on the particular intended application of device 10 .
- Device 10 can also substantially conform to the shape and contours of the target area by forming device 10 in accordance with a method of construction as described in greater detail below.
- device 10 can be comprised of one or more sections that can enable device 10 to be easily applied, removed and re-applied to a user without damage to device 10 .
- device 10 can comprise a generally enclosed sidewall 12 having a plurality of voids 14 defined therein.
- Voids 14 can have any number of different sizes and shapes and can be configured into particular patterns or non-uniformly arranged formations across sidewall 12 .
- voids 14 can be positioned in a certain configuration within sidewall 12 so as to form a plurality of structural ribs 16 between voids 14 .
- This configuration of voids 14 and ribs 16 can reduce the amount of material necessary to form device 10 and maintain rigidity of device 10 while providing the device with lightweight properties and enabling ventilation and breathability of device 10 with regard to the user's limb or other target area where device 10 is applied while conforming to manufacturing requirements.
- Device 10 can further comprise one or more shell-sections 18 , which can be joined together to form the enclosed sidewall 12 .
- device 10 comprises a shell-section 18 , which can be joined at its ends 26 and 28 to form the enclosed sidewall 12 .
- device 10 can comprise a shell-section 18 and a shell-section 20 , which can be joined together to form the enclosed sidewall 12 .
- Device 10 can also comprise more than two sidewall sections in alternative embodiments of the present invention (this alternative embodiment is not shown in the figures).
- sidewall 12 can include a sidewall seam 22 defined longitudinally through sidewall 12 .
- Sidewall seam 22 can define a first and a second longitudinal ends 26 and 28 of shell-section 18 , which join together to form sidewall seam 22 .
- Sidewall seam 22 can be configured in a general wave-like configuration or a generally straight configuration. Alternative configurations can also be used, especially configurations that further the structural stability of the device 10 .
- a wave-like configuration can also be configured to provide structural stability of the device 10 .
- shell-sections 18 and 20 can be defined by sidewall seams 22 and 24 defined longitudinally through sidewall 12 and thereby separating sidewall 12 into shell-sections 18 and 20 .
- shell-section 18 has first and second longitudinal edges 26 and 28 that correspond to first and second longitudinal edges 30 and 32 of shell-section 20 . Longitudinal edges 26 and 30 combine to form first seam 22 while longitudinal edges 28 and 32 combine to form second seam 24 .
- first and second longitudinal edges 26 and 28 combine to form first seam 22 while longitudinal edges 28 and 32 combine to form second seam 24 .
- seams 22 and 24 (along with corresponding longitudinal ridges 26 - 32 ) can be configured in a general wave-like pattern, as shown in FIG. 3 , or can have a straighter configuration as shown in FIG. 7 .
- Other configurations or orientations can also be used for seams 22 and 24 so long as seams 22 and 24 are suitable for joining shell-sections 18 and 20 together.
- Seams 22 and 24 can be formed (and correspondingly, enclosed sidewall 12 ) when first longitudinal edge 26 of shell-section 18 is joined to conforming first longitudinal edge 30 of shell-section 20 and second longitudinal edge 28 of shell-section 18 is joined to conforming second longitudinal edge 32 of shell-section 20 .
- adjacent longitudinal edges 26 and 30 and 28 and 32 can be positioned with minimal space defined between.
- Enclosed sidewall 12 can also define primary end openings 34 and 36 of device 10 at sidewall's 12 terminal or axial ends, as best illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 14 .
- Primary end openings 34 and 36 can accommodate a user's arm, hand, fingers, leg, foot, etc. extending away from device 10 in either direction.
- device 10 can also include secondary openings 38 for thumbs, fingers or similar extremities. As shown in FIG. 2 , device 10 can include a secondary opening 38 for receiving a user's thumb, according to one embodiment of the present invention.
- Device 10 can also include one or more connector receiver pairs 40 located on seams 22 and/or 24 and comprising two connector receivers 42 . As described below, each connector pair 40 can be separable into two portions to allow shell-section 18 to be separated at its ends 26 and 28 or to be separated from shell-section 20 .
- FIG. 2 illustrates one embodiment of device 10 having two receiver pairs 40 along each seam 22 and 24 while FIGS. 9 and 10 illustrate another embodiment of device 10 having only one receiver pair 40 along each seam 22 and 24 .
- FIG. 16 illustrates yet another embodiment of device 10 having only one receiver pair along seam 22 , which connects the first and second longitudinal ends 26 and 28 of shell-section 18 together. Any number of additional combinations of receiver pairs 40 may be suitable depending on the particular configuration and shape of device 10 .
- Receiver pairs 40 can be used in conjunction with connectors 44 to secure and hold shell-sections 18 and 20 together along seams 22 and 24 , as best shown in FIG. 14 , or to secure shell-section 18 together at its ends 26 and 28 , as best shown in FIG. 16 .
- Each connector receiver 42 can extend axially away from sidewall 12 adjacent to seam 22 or 24 (and corresponding longitudinal edge 26 - 32 ) as best shown in FIG. 11 .
- each connector receiver 42 can also have first and second raised sidewalls 46 and 48 and a top wall 50 extending therebetween and defining the upper boundary of the receiver 40 .
- Defined within each connector receiver 40 can be a slot 52 extending from first raised sidewall 46 to second raised sidewall 48 for receiving a section of connector 44 .
- second raised sidewall 48 of each receiver 42 can conform to the corresponding longitudinal edge 26 - 32 adjacent to the receiver 42 so that each receiver 42 does not extend beyond seam 22 or 24 and first and second shell-sections 18 and 22 can be joined at seams 22 and 24 with a conforming fit.
- each connector receiver 42 on first longitudinal edge 26 of shell-section 18 corresponds to each connector receptacle 42 on first longitudinal edge 30 of shell-section 20 so that the receivers 42 align along seam 22 and form receiver pairs 40 .
- each connector receiver 42 on second longitudinal edge 28 of shell-section 18 can align with each connector receiver 42 on second longitudinal edge 32 of section-shell 18 to form receiver pairs 40 .
- each connector receiver 42 on first longitudinal edge 26 corresponds to a connector receiver 42 on second longitudinal edge 28 so that the receivers 42 align along seam 22 to form a receiver pair 40 .
- slots 52 of corresponding connector receivers 42 in a receiver pair 40 align to form a continuous slot or opening 52 through the receiver pair 40 when shell-sections 18 and 20 are joined together, as best shown in FIG. 8 , or when ends 26 and 28 of shell-section 18 are joined together, as best shown in FIG. 16 .
- Connectors 44 can be used to lock receivers 42 in each connector receiver pair 40 together to join shell-section 18 at its ends as shown in FIG. 16 , or to join shell-section 18 and 20 together as shown in FIG. 14 .
- Connectors 44 can comprise many different types of fasteners depending on the particular embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 13 illustrates one specific embodiment of connector 44 in the form of a clip.
- clip 44 can comprise an upper arm 54 and a lower arm 56 connected together by a resilient bridge 58 at one end of each arm.
- clip 44 can include a retaining rib 60 extending downward from upper arm 54 into a groove 62 defined in lower arm 56 .
- Retaining rib 60 can include a lower edge 64 that has an inward-extending lip 66 as best shown in FIG. 13 .
- Lip 16 facilitates securing connector pairs 42 together as described in greater detail below.
- Resilient bridge 58 allows upper aim 54 (and attached rib 60 ) to be flexed upward away from lower arm 56 by a user to fasten clip 44 to receptacle pair 40 , as also described in greater detail below.
- Lower arm 56 can be configured to be inserted into and through receiver slots 52 of a connector receiver pair 40 when joined together.
- lower arm 56 preferably has a thickness T C that is less than a height T R of receiver slot 52 of receiver pair 40 as best shown in FIG. 15 .
- Lower arm 56 also preferably has a width Y C that is less than a width Y R of receiver slot 52 as best shown in FIG. 14 .
- the distance between resilient bridge 58 and retaining rib 60 is preferably slightly greater than the length of receiver pair 40 so that clip 44 tightly joins receptacles 42 together.
- Connectors 46 can also comprise any number of alternative embodiments that are suitable for maintaining a joined connected between first and second shell-halves 18 and 20 .
- receiver slots 52 of each receiver pair 40 include a divider wall (not shown) that allows a cord, string, wire or similar tie to semi-permanently secure receivers 42 of each receiver pair 40 together.
- shell-sections 18 and 20 can be separated from one another.
- Device 10 can then be used by positioning shell-sections 18 and 20 around the user's target area (such as an arm or leg) and joining first longitudinal edges 26 and 30 to form seam 22 and joining second longitudinal edges 28 and 32 to form seam 24 , as best illustrated in FIG. 6 .
- target area such as an arm or leg
- first longitudinal edges 26 and 30 to form seam 22 and joining second longitudinal edges 28 and 32 to form seam 24
- corresponding connector receivers 42 of each receiver pair 40 can be joined together.
- sidewall 12 comprises only shell-section 18
- the longitudinal ends 26 and 28 can be separated along seam 22 until device 10 can be applied to the target area of the user, where longitudinal seams 26 and 28 can be joined back together.
- Connectors 44 can then be used to lock or secure shell-sections together as shown in FIGS. 14-16 .
- lower arm 56 of each clip 44 can be inserted into receiver slot 52 of the corresponding receiver pair 40 by raising upper arm 54 away from lower arm 56 until the distance between a lower edge 64 of retaining rib 60 and lower arm 56 is greater than the width top wall 50 of receivers 42 .
- retaining rib 60 snaps downward partially into groove 62 to lock clip 44 in place due to the resiliency of bridge 58 .
- clip 44 When fully inserted, clip 44 restricts receivers 42 in a receiver pair 40 from separating because top walls 50 of each receiver 42 enclosed by upper aim 54 , lower aim 56 , resilient bridge 58 and retaining rib 60 of clip 44 . Lip 66 on retaining rib 64 can also be positioned partially within slot 52 and thereby prevent upper arm 54 and lower aim 56 from separating. After all clips 44 are inserted into each receiver pair 40 and enclosed around top walls 50 , device 10 can be rigidly secured and sidewall 12 can form around the user's arm or other target area.
- Device 10 can then be removed from the user by removing connectors 44 and separating first and second shell sections 18 and 20 . Because lip 66 can be partially inserted into slot 52 , a user can be required to push the resilient bridge laterally against the first sidewall 36 of connector receiver 42 in order to allow lip 66 to exit slot 52 . Connectors 44 can then be removed by lifting upper arm 56 away from lower arm 58 and sliding lower arm 58 out of slot 52 . Once all connectors 44 are removed from receiver pairs 40 , shell-sections 18 and 20 can be removed from the user. Alternatively, when sidewall 12 includes one shell-section 18 , longitudinal ends 26 and 28 can be separated in or to allow the device 10 to be removed from the user. Device 10 can then be reapplied in the manner described above.
- connectors 44 and receiver pairs 40 provide structural stability for the device 10 .
- Each connector 44 can securely hold the connector receivers 44 within a connector receiver pair 40 together and restrict movement along several different directional axes.
- the sizing of the upper arm 54 and lower arm 56 thicknesses in relation to the top wall 50 thicknesses of the connector receivers 42 restricts movement of one longitudinal end 26 - 32 relative to another longitudinal end 26 - 32 along sidewall seam 22 or 24 in a first direction.
- Lip 66 on retaining rib 64 also assists in preventing this direction of movement by preventing upper and lower arms 54 and 56 from separating unless lip 66 is removed from slot 52 .
- the length of clip 44 between resilient bridge 58 and retaining rib 60 relative to the length of a connector receiver pair 40 restricts movement of a paired longitudinal ends 26 - 32 relative to one another along seam 22 or 24 in a second direction.
- Resilient bridge 58 and retaining rib 60 also restrict movement of paired longitudinal ends 26 - 32 relative to one another along seam 22 or 24 in a third direction.
- device 10 can maintain structural rigidity about sidewall 12 when connectors 44 are secured onto clip receiver pairs 40 .
- Device 10 can be sized, constructed, and designed according to a number of different methods or processes. According to one process, different information can be collected about the intended user of the device. Such information can be collected by various types of equipment, such as scanners and other similar devices. Some or all of this information can also be collected manually The collected information can then be used to design device 10 according to specific parameters. The information can be used in conjunction with one or more computer analysis programs or software, and other technology in order to develop the design of device 10 . The information can also be in a human design process to develop device 10 .
- the design of device 10 can take into account several different parameters. For example, the design can be dependent on the user, the intended application of device 10 , desired immobilization, desired stability, size, shape, temperature, conditions, etc., each of which can affect the material used, the type of scanning device or printer used, and the like. According to one process, the information collected is used to design a device 10 specifically customized to a user with lightweight, breathable, waterproof, and structural stability properties. Further, the process can incorporate additional factors, such as the degree of removability, degree of immobilization of the target area, among others.
- the design process can collect different information specific to a user, combine the collected information with additional design information non-specific to the user, combine, manipulate, and factor the collected and additional information using computer implemented devices, a human design process or a combination of the two in order to develop the design of device 10 specifically adapted to the user in structure and functionality.
- device 10 can be formed using a 3D scanner to precisely identify the shape and contours of the user's target area.
- the 3D scanner can incorporate a hand-held, white-light reflective scanner that can be selectively positioned around the user's arm or other body part in which device 10 will be applied to create a 3D image of the target area. Additional information can be collected and incorporated in certain applications.
- 3D CAD software along with other design software, can then be used to design the device 10 to precisely fit around 3D image by effectively drawing the shape of the device 10 onto the 3D image model. Voids 14 and corresponding structural ribs 16 can then be selectively designed into device 10 .
- Seams 22 and/or 24 can then be provided onto the design of device 10 to form shell-section 18 and shell-section 20 , if applicable.
- Connector receiver pairs 40 can then be provided onto device 10 along seams 22 and/or 24 .
- Connectors 44 can also be designed to correspond to receiver pairs 40 .
- Device 10 can then be constructed by printing each shell-section 18 and 20 (if applicable) using a 3D printer.
- Device 10 can be constructed from several different materials depending on the particular application of device 10 .
- Device 10 can be constructed from a uniform material or a combination of materials. The specific material used can affect the flexibility, rigidity, structural stability, weight and other properties of the device.
- device 10 is constructed from a rigid material such as rigid plastic.
- device 10 is constructed from a semi-rigid or semi-flexible material, such as flexible plastic or woven fabric material.
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Abstract
Description
- This Application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/050,067, filed on Sep. 12, 2014, to Diana Hall, entitled “Amphibian Skin Custom-fit Exoskeleton Support Devices,” currently pending, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/162,743, filed on May 17, 2015, to Diana Hall, entitled “Amphibian Skin 3D Printed Clips and Cable Tie Slots,” currently pending, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.
- The present invention relates to devices, such as casts, splints, braces, and similar devices for immobilizing and stabilizing various portions of a user's body, including arms, elbows, wrists, hands, legs, knees, ankles, feet and other structures. Such devices are also used in veterinary applications and other various alternative uses.
- When a user's body portion needs stabilization, a cast, brace or similar device is commonly applied to immobilize the particular location of the identified body part. The cast or splint is commonly applied to an arm, leg, or joint, such as a knee, ankle, elbow or wrist. One common cast is a molded plaster or fiberglass cast formed around the location of the body part. A layer of padding, such as a cotton wrap, is applied around the body portion targeted and the plaster or fiberglass cast component is then applied and molded to conform to the patient's body. The cast is a single-use and non-removable device. While this style of casts is generally effective at immobilizing the targeted body portion and is generally inexpensive to produce, it has several limitations. One main limitation is that the cast is not removable. Thus, in order to clean the targeted body portion or subsequently examine the targeted body portion, the cast must be removed and a new cast applied. Another limitation is that this type of cast is non-breathable and non-waterproof. This can lead to skin irritation and other issues as well as damage to the cast when the patient encounters wet conditions.
- Accordingly, a need exists for a moldable cast or similar device that is effective at immobilizing a particular body part while being removable, reusable, lightweight, breathable, waterproof and structurally stable in multiple directions.
- The present invention is directed generally to a customizable fitted device for immobilizing particular portions of a user's body. The device can be used to protect, stabilize, and/or immobilize the targeted body portion. According to one embodiment of the present invention, the device can include a generally enclosed sidewall divided into one or more shell-sections. The shell-section(s) can be joined together and faun one or more longitudinal seams within the device sidewall. Each longitudinal seam can extend from the upper and lower terminal ends of the device. In an embodiment where there is only a single shell-section, the device contains sufficient flexibility, at least in a portion of the device, to allow the sidewall to be separated along the longitudinal seam and be removed from the user without damaging or destroying the device. In an embodiment where there are multiple shell-sections, the multiple longitudinal seams enable the device to be separated and removed from the user without damaging or destroying the device, even while the sidewall is substantially rigid.
- According to one embodiment, the enclosed sidewall can have a plurality of voids defined through the sidewall. The plurality of voids can define structural ribs in the sidewall that maintain structural rigidity while still permitting several openings within the sidewall. The device can also include primary openings at the upper and lower ends of the sidewall so that the device can be applied to only a portion of the user's body, such as the lower aim or leg with other portions of the user's body protruding from the device. Additionally, the device can include secondary openings defined within the sidewall to accommodate thumbs, finger, or other body portion.
- The device can further include one or more connector receivers positioned on the longitudinal seams of the device. The connector receivers can be used to hold the one or more sidewall sections together along the one or more longitudinal seams. Each connector receiver is positioned on both portions of the sidewall adjacent to the longitudinal seam. For example, in an embodiment where there are two sidewall- or shell-sections, each connector receiver is positioned on both sidewall sections adjacent to a longitudinal seam. The connector receiver can further be divided along the longitudinal seam so that one portion of the receiver remains on one side sidewall and the other portion of the receiver remains on the adjacent side of the sidewall when the sidewall is separated along the longitudinal seam. Each connector receiver also can include an opening or slot defined through the receiver. The opening can be configured to allow a connector or clip to be inserted through and hold the two portions of the connector receiver together.
- When the device is ready for use, the one or more sidewall sections can be placed around the target area of the user so that the one or more sidewall sections meet at the one or more longitudinal seams, thereby forming an enclosed sidewall around the target area. The connectors or clips can then be inserted through the receiver openings and secured to holder the connector receivers together. Once all connector receivers are secured, the device forms a rigid or supporting device around the target area. The device can then be easily removed from the user by removing the connectors or clips and separating the sidewall section(s).
- Other aspects and advantages of the present invention will be apparent from the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments and the accompanying drawing figures.
- In the accompanying drawing, which forms a part of the specification and is to be read in conjunction therewith in which like reference numerals are used to indicate like or similar parts in the various views:
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FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a fitted device for immobilizing a lower arm of a user in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 2 is a side perspective view of the fitted device ofFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 3 is a rear perspective view of the fitted device ofFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 4 is a side perspective view of the fitted device ofFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of the fitted device ofFIG. 1 , illustrating a first section and a second section of the fitted device separated prior to being applied to a user's arm in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 6 is a front perspective view of the fitted device ofFIG. 1 , illustrating the fitted device applied to a user's arm in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 7 is a front perspective view of a fitted device for immobilizing a hand of a user in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 8 is a front perspective view of the fitted device ofFIG. 7 ; -
FIG. 9 is a rear perspective view of the fitted device ofFIG. 7 ; -
FIG. 10 is a side perspective view of the fitted device ofFIG. 7 ; -
FIG. 11 is an exploded perspective view of the fitted device ofFIG. 7 , illustrating a first section and a second section of the fitted device separated prior to being applied to a user's hand in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 12 is a rear perspective view of the fitted device ofFIG. 7 , illustrating the fitted device applied to a user's hand in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 13 is a top perspective view of a connector used to secure two sections of a fitted device in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a connector and fitted device for immobilizing a user's hand in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, illustrating the connector inserted into a receiver slot and holding two sections of the fitted device together; -
FIG. 15 is a section plan view of the fitted device ofFIG. 3 , illustrating a connector inserted into a receiver slot for holding a first section and a second section of the fitted device together; and -
FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a connector and fitted device fitted device for immobilizing a user's hand in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, illustrating the connector inserted into a receiver slot and holding two end of the fitted device together. - The invention will now be described with reference to the drawing figures, in which like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout. For purposes of clarity in illustrating the characteristics of the present invention, proportional relationships of the elements have not necessarily been maintained in the drawing figures.
- The following detailed description of the invention references specific embodiments in which the invention can be practiced. The embodiments are intended to describe aspects of the invention in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the invention. Other embodiments can be utilized and changes can be made without departing from the scope of the present invention. The present invention is defined by the appended claims and the description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense and shall not limit the scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled.
- The present invention is directed toward a fitted
device 10.FIG. 1 illustrates one embodiment of the present invention, wheredevice 10 is configured for application to a user's arm.FIG. 7 illustrates another embodiment of the present invention wheredevice 10 is configured for application to a user's hand. As illustrated in the various figures,device 10 can be configured for application to an arm or hand of a human user; however,device 10 can also be suitable for application to other limbs or body parts, such as a leg or foot. Additionally,device 10 as described herein may be used for animals of all types and sizes. -
Device 10 can be used to support, stabilize and/or immobilize a limb or similar target area of a user by faulting a partially enclosed structure around the target area.Device 10 can be formed as a substantially rigid structure without noticeable flexibility ordevice 10 can be formed with semi-flexible properties in all or some ofdevice 10 depending on the particular intended application ofdevice 10.Device 10 can also substantially conform to the shape and contours of the target area by formingdevice 10 in accordance with a method of construction as described in greater detail below. As also described below,device 10 can be comprised of one or more sections that can enabledevice 10 to be easily applied, removed and re-applied to a user without damage todevice 10. - As shown throughout the various figures,
device 10 can comprise a generally enclosedsidewall 12 having a plurality ofvoids 14 defined therein.Voids 14 can have any number of different sizes and shapes and can be configured into particular patterns or non-uniformly arranged formations acrosssidewall 12. As shown inFIG. 1 , and in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, voids 14 can be positioned in a certain configuration withinsidewall 12 so as to form a plurality ofstructural ribs 16 betweenvoids 14. This configuration ofvoids 14 andribs 16 can reduce the amount of material necessary to formdevice 10 and maintain rigidity ofdevice 10 while providing the device with lightweight properties and enabling ventilation and breathability ofdevice 10 with regard to the user's limb or other target area wheredevice 10 is applied while conforming to manufacturing requirements. -
Device 10 can further comprise one or more shell-sections 18, which can be joined together to form theenclosed sidewall 12. As shown inFIG. 16 ,device 10 comprises a shell-section 18, which can be joined at itsends enclosed sidewall 12. As shown inFIGS. 5 and 11 ,device 10 can comprise a shell-section 18 and a shell-section 20, which can be joined together to form theenclosed sidewall 12.Device 10 can also comprise more than two sidewall sections in alternative embodiments of the present invention (this alternative embodiment is not shown in the figures). - In an embodiment where
device 10 includes one shell-section 18,sidewall 12 can include asidewall seam 22 defined longitudinally throughsidewall 12.Sidewall seam 22 can define a first and a second longitudinal ends 26 and 28 of shell-section 18, which join together to formsidewall seam 22.Sidewall seam 22 can be configured in a general wave-like configuration or a generally straight configuration. Alternative configurations can also be used, especially configurations that further the structural stability of thedevice 10. A wave-like configuration can also be configured to provide structural stability of thedevice 10. - As best illustrated in
FIGS. 1 and 3 , in an embodiment wheredevice 10 includes shell-sections sections sidewall seams sidewall 12 and thereby separatingsidewall 12 into shell-sections FIGS. 1 and 3 , when both shell-sections form sidewall 12, shell-section 18 has first and secondlongitudinal edges longitudinal edges section 20. Longitudinal edges 26 and 30 combine to formfirst seam 22 whilelongitudinal edges second seam 24. As shown inFIG. 3 , seams 22 and 24 (along with corresponding longitudinal ridges 26-32) can be configured in a general wave-like pattern, as shown inFIG. 3 , or can have a straighter configuration as shown inFIG. 7 . Other configurations or orientations can also be used forseams seams sections Seams longitudinal edge 26 of shell-section 18 is joined to conforming firstlongitudinal edge 30 of shell-section 20 and secondlongitudinal edge 28 of shell-section 18 is joined to conforming secondlongitudinal edge 32 of shell-section 20. When shell-sections seams enclosed sidewall 12, adjacentlongitudinal edges -
Enclosed sidewall 12 can also defineprimary end openings device 10 at sidewall's 12 terminal or axial ends, as best illustrated inFIGS. 4 and 14 .Primary end openings device 10 in either direction. Depending on the particular application or use,device 10 can also includesecondary openings 38 for thumbs, fingers or similar extremities. As shown inFIG. 2 ,device 10 can include asecondary opening 38 for receiving a user's thumb, according to one embodiment of the present invention. -
Device 10 can also include one or more connector receiver pairs 40 located onseams 22 and/or 24 and comprising twoconnector receivers 42. As described below, eachconnector pair 40 can be separable into two portions to allow shell-section 18 to be separated at itsends section 20.FIG. 2 illustrates one embodiment ofdevice 10 having two receiver pairs 40 along eachseam FIGS. 9 and 10 illustrate another embodiment ofdevice 10 having only onereceiver pair 40 along eachseam FIG. 16 illustrates yet another embodiment ofdevice 10 having only one receiver pair alongseam 22, which connects the first and second longitudinal ends 26 and 28 of shell-section 18 together. Any number of additional combinations of receiver pairs 40 may be suitable depending on the particular configuration and shape ofdevice 10. Receiver pairs 40 can be used in conjunction withconnectors 44 to secure and hold shell-sections seams FIG. 14 , or to secure shell-section 18 together at itsends FIG. 16 . - Each
connector receiver 42 can extend axially away fromsidewall 12 adjacent toseam 22 or 24 (and corresponding longitudinal edge 26-32) as best shown inFIG. 11 . As also shown inFIG. 11 , eachconnector receiver 42 can also have first and second raised sidewalls 46 and 48 and atop wall 50 extending therebetween and defining the upper boundary of thereceiver 40. Defined within eachconnector receiver 40 can be aslot 52 extending from first raisedsidewall 46 to second raisedsidewall 48 for receiving a section ofconnector 44. - As shown in
FIG. 11 , second raisedsidewall 48 of eachreceiver 42 can conform to the corresponding longitudinal edge 26-32 adjacent to thereceiver 42 so that eachreceiver 42 does not extend beyondseam sections seams FIGS. 1 and 3 , eachconnector receiver 42 on firstlongitudinal edge 26 of shell-section 18 corresponds to eachconnector receptacle 42 on firstlongitudinal edge 30 of shell-section 20 so that thereceivers 42 align alongseam 22 and form receiver pairs 40. Similarly, eachconnector receiver 42 on secondlongitudinal edge 28 of shell-section 18 can align with eachconnector receiver 42 on secondlongitudinal edge 32 of section-shell 18 to form receiver pairs 40. Alternatively, whensidewall 12 comprises only one shell-section 18, as shown inFIG. 16 , eachconnector receiver 42 on firstlongitudinal edge 26 corresponds to aconnector receiver 42 on secondlongitudinal edge 28 so that thereceivers 42 align alongseam 22 to form areceiver pair 40. Pursuant to this alignment,slots 52 of correspondingconnector receivers 42 in areceiver pair 40 align to form a continuous slot or opening 52 through thereceiver pair 40 when shell-sections FIG. 8 , or when ends 26 and 28 of shell-section 18 are joined together, as best shown inFIG. 16 . -
Connectors 44 can be used to lockreceivers 42 in eachconnector receiver pair 40 together to join shell-section 18 at its ends as shown inFIG. 16 , or to join shell-section FIG. 14 .Connectors 44 can comprise many different types of fasteners depending on the particular embodiment of the present invention.FIG. 13 illustrates one specific embodiment ofconnector 44 in the form of a clip. As shown inFIG. 13 ,clip 44 can comprise anupper arm 54 and alower arm 56 connected together by aresilient bridge 58 at one end of each arm. At itsend opposing bridge 58,clip 44 can include a retainingrib 60 extending downward fromupper arm 54 into agroove 62 defined inlower arm 56. Retainingrib 60 can include alower edge 64 that has an inward-extendinglip 66 as best shown inFIG. 13 .Lip 16 facilitates securing connector pairs 42 together as described in greater detail below.Resilient bridge 58 allows upper aim 54 (and attached rib 60) to be flexed upward away fromlower arm 56 by a user to fastenclip 44 toreceptacle pair 40, as also described in greater detail below. -
Lower arm 56 can be configured to be inserted into and throughreceiver slots 52 of aconnector receiver pair 40 when joined together. According to this configuration,lower arm 56 preferably has a thickness TC that is less than a height TR ofreceiver slot 52 ofreceiver pair 40 as best shown inFIG. 15 .Lower arm 56 also preferably has a width YC that is less than a width YR ofreceiver slot 52 as best shown inFIG. 14 . As shown inFIG. 15 , the distance betweenresilient bridge 58 and retainingrib 60 is preferably slightly greater than the length ofreceiver pair 40 so thatclip 44 tightly joinsreceptacles 42 together. -
Connectors 46 can also comprise any number of alternative embodiments that are suitable for maintaining a joined connected between first and second shell-halves receiver slots 52 of eachreceiver pair 40 include a divider wall (not shown) that allows a cord, string, wire or similar tie to semi-permanentlysecure receivers 42 of eachreceiver pair 40 together. - As best shown in
FIG. 5 , prior to use, shell-sections Device 10 can then be used by positioning shell-sections longitudinal edges seam 22 and joining secondlongitudinal edges seam 24, as best illustrated inFIG. 6 . When shell-sections seams connector receivers 42 of eachreceiver pair 40 can be joined together. In an embodiment wheresidewall 12 comprises only shell-section 18, the longitudinal ends 26 and 28 can be separated alongseam 22 untildevice 10 can be applied to the target area of the user, wherelongitudinal seams -
Connectors 44 can then be used to lock or secure shell-sections together as shown inFIGS. 14-16 . When aclip 44 is used as shown inFIGS. 14-16 ,lower arm 56 of eachclip 44 can be inserted intoreceiver slot 52 of the correspondingreceiver pair 40 by raisingupper arm 54 away fromlower arm 56 until the distance between alower edge 64 of retainingrib 60 andlower arm 56 is greater than the widthtop wall 50 ofreceivers 42. Oncelower arm 56 ofclip 44 is fully inserted throughslot 52, retainingrib 60 snaps downward partially intogroove 62 to lockclip 44 in place due to the resiliency ofbridge 58. When fully inserted,clip 44 restrictsreceivers 42 in areceiver pair 40 from separating becausetop walls 50 of eachreceiver 42 enclosed byupper aim 54,lower aim 56,resilient bridge 58 and retainingrib 60 ofclip 44.Lip 66 on retainingrib 64 can also be positioned partially withinslot 52 and thereby preventupper arm 54 andlower aim 56 from separating. After all clips 44 are inserted into eachreceiver pair 40 and enclosed aroundtop walls 50,device 10 can be rigidly secured andsidewall 12 can form around the user's arm or other target area. -
Device 10 can then be removed from the user by removingconnectors 44 and separating first andsecond shell sections lip 66 can be partially inserted intoslot 52, a user can be required to push the resilient bridge laterally against thefirst sidewall 36 ofconnector receiver 42 in order to allowlip 66 to exitslot 52.Connectors 44 can then be removed by liftingupper arm 56 away fromlower arm 58 and slidinglower arm 58 out ofslot 52. Once allconnectors 44 are removed from receiver pairs 40, shell-sections sidewall 12 includes one shell-section 18, longitudinal ends 26 and 28 can be separated in or to allow thedevice 10 to be removed from the user.Device 10 can then be reapplied in the manner described above. - Collectively,
connectors 44 and receiver pairs 40 provide structural stability for thedevice 10. Eachconnector 44 can securely hold theconnector receivers 44 within aconnector receiver pair 40 together and restrict movement along several different directional axes. The sizing of theupper arm 54 andlower arm 56 thicknesses in relation to thetop wall 50 thicknesses of theconnector receivers 42 restricts movement of one longitudinal end 26-32 relative to another longitudinal end 26-32 alongsidewall seam Lip 66 on retainingrib 64 also assists in preventing this direction of movement by preventing upper andlower arms lip 66 is removed fromslot 52. The length ofclip 44 betweenresilient bridge 58 and retainingrib 60 relative to the length of aconnector receiver pair 40 restricts movement of a paired longitudinal ends 26-32 relative to one another alongseam Resilient bridge 58 and retainingrib 60 also restrict movement of paired longitudinal ends 26-32 relative to one another alongseam device 10 can maintain structural rigidity aboutsidewall 12 whenconnectors 44 are secured onto clip receiver pairs 40. -
Device 10 can be sized, constructed, and designed according to a number of different methods or processes. According to one process, different information can be collected about the intended user of the device. Such information can be collected by various types of equipment, such as scanners and other similar devices. Some or all of this information can also be collected manually The collected information can then be used to designdevice 10 according to specific parameters. The information can be used in conjunction with one or more computer analysis programs or software, and other technology in order to develop the design ofdevice 10. The information can also be in a human design process to developdevice 10. - The design of
device 10 can take into account several different parameters. For example, the design can be dependent on the user, the intended application ofdevice 10, desired immobilization, desired stability, size, shape, temperature, conditions, etc., each of which can affect the material used, the type of scanning device or printer used, and the like. According to one process, the information collected is used to design adevice 10 specifically customized to a user with lightweight, breathable, waterproof, and structural stability properties. Further, the process can incorporate additional factors, such as the degree of removability, degree of immobilization of the target area, among others. Based on the foregoing, the design process, according to one embodiment of the present invention, can collect different information specific to a user, combine the collected information with additional design information non-specific to the user, combine, manipulate, and factor the collected and additional information using computer implemented devices, a human design process or a combination of the two in order to develop the design ofdevice 10 specifically adapted to the user in structure and functionality. - According to one method,
device 10 can be formed using a 3D scanner to precisely identify the shape and contours of the user's target area. The 3D scanner can incorporate a hand-held, white-light reflective scanner that can be selectively positioned around the user's arm or other body part in whichdevice 10 will be applied to create a 3D image of the target area. Additional information can be collected and incorporated in certain applications. 3D CAD software, along with other design software, can then be used to design thedevice 10 to precisely fit around 3D image by effectively drawing the shape of thedevice 10 onto the 3D image model.Voids 14 and correspondingstructural ribs 16 can then be selectively designed intodevice 10.Seams 22 and/or 24 can then be provided onto the design ofdevice 10 to form shell-section 18 and shell-section 20, if applicable. Connector receiver pairs 40 can then be provided ontodevice 10 alongseams 22 and/or 24.Connectors 44 can also be designed to correspond to receiver pairs 40.Device 10 can then be constructed by printing each shell-section 18 and 20 (if applicable) using a 3D printer.Device 10 can be constructed from several different materials depending on the particular application ofdevice 10.Device 10 can be constructed from a uniform material or a combination of materials. The specific material used can affect the flexibility, rigidity, structural stability, weight and other properties of the device. In one embodiment,device 10 is constructed from a rigid material such as rigid plastic. In an alternative embodiment,device 10 is constructed from a semi-rigid or semi-flexible material, such as flexible plastic or woven fabric material. - From the foregoing, it will be seen that this invention is one well adapted to attain all the ends and objects hereinabove set forth together with other advantages which are obvious and which are inherent to the structure. It will be understood that certain features and sub combinations are of utility and may be employed without reference to other features and sub combinations. This is contemplated by and is within the scope of the claims. Since many possible embodiments of the invention may be made without departing from the scope thereof, it is also to be understood that all matters herein set forth or shown in the accompanying drawings are to be interpreted as illustrative and not limiting.
- The constructions described above and illustrated in the drawings are presented by way of example only and are not intended to limit the concepts and principles of the present invention. Thus, there has been shown and described several embodiments of a novel invention. As is evident from the foregoing description, certain aspects of the present invention are not limited by the particular details of the examples illustrated herein, and it is therefore contemplated that other modifications and applications, or equivalents thereof, will occur to those skilled in the art. The terms “having” and “including” and similar terms as used in the foregoing specification are used in the sense of “optional” or “may include” and not as “required”. Many changes, modifications, variations and other uses and applications of the present construction will, however, become apparent to those skilled in the art after considering the specification and the accompanying drawings. All such changes, modifications, variations and other uses and applications which do not depart from the spirit and scope of the invention are deemed to be covered by the invention which is limited only by the claims which follow.
Claims (20)
Priority Applications (3)
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US14/852,516 US20160074203A1 (en) | 2014-09-12 | 2015-09-12 | Customizable fitted apparatus |
US16/677,434 US20200069454A1 (en) | 2014-09-12 | 2019-11-07 | Customizable fitted apparatus |
US17/934,052 US20230014237A1 (en) | 2014-09-12 | 2022-09-21 | Customizable fitted apparatus |
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
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US201462050067P | 2014-09-12 | 2014-09-12 | |
US201562162743P | 2015-05-17 | 2015-05-17 | |
US14/852,516 US20160074203A1 (en) | 2014-09-12 | 2015-09-12 | Customizable fitted apparatus |
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US16/677,434 Continuation US20200069454A1 (en) | 2014-09-12 | 2019-11-07 | Customizable fitted apparatus |
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US16/677,434 Abandoned US20200069454A1 (en) | 2014-09-12 | 2019-11-07 | Customizable fitted apparatus |
US17/934,052 Pending US20230014237A1 (en) | 2014-09-12 | 2022-09-21 | Customizable fitted apparatus |
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US16/677,434 Abandoned US20200069454A1 (en) | 2014-09-12 | 2019-11-07 | Customizable fitted apparatus |
US17/934,052 Pending US20230014237A1 (en) | 2014-09-12 | 2022-09-21 | Customizable fitted apparatus |
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Cited By (10)
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CN107260372A (en) * | 2017-06-28 | 2017-10-20 | 芜湖启泽信息技术有限公司 | A kind of medical knee protection device based on 3D printing technique |
EP3287103A1 (en) * | 2016-08-22 | 2018-02-28 | Njoy Braces B.V. | Wrist brace |
CN109498241A (en) * | 2019-01-02 | 2019-03-22 | 京东方科技集团股份有限公司 | Clamping plate and its operating method |
CN110433017A (en) * | 2019-08-13 | 2019-11-12 | 孙虹燕 | A kind of protective device using the fixed diabetes of Full connected gypsum |
US10758396B2 (en) | 2016-01-28 | 2020-09-01 | Dimension Orthotics, LLC | 3D printed splint and cast |
CN112022480A (en) * | 2020-09-28 | 2020-12-04 | 上海交通大学 | Traction type personalized bone fracture medical splint and using method |
CN112641553A (en) * | 2020-12-22 | 2021-04-13 | 航天科工哈尔滨风华有限公司电站设备分公司 | Waterproof finger fixing clamp |
US11564848B2 (en) | 2018-09-27 | 2023-01-31 | Exosseus Llc | Method of producing a custom-fit orthopedic immobilization device |
WO2023006972A1 (en) | 2021-07-29 | 2023-02-02 | Skincasts | Method and system for manufacturing an orthopaedic splint and associated orthopaedic splint |
WO2023006987A1 (en) | 2021-07-29 | 2023-02-02 | Skincasts | Method and system for manufacturing an orthopaedic splint and orthopaedic splint thereof |
Families Citing this family (1)
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US11931281B1 (en) | 2022-12-30 | 2024-03-19 | Protect3D, Inc. | Adjustable brace and processes for making and using same |
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US5836902A (en) * | 1996-12-03 | 1998-11-17 | Gray; James C. | Splint |
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Cited By (12)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US10758396B2 (en) | 2016-01-28 | 2020-09-01 | Dimension Orthotics, LLC | 3D printed splint and cast |
EP3287103A1 (en) * | 2016-08-22 | 2018-02-28 | Njoy Braces B.V. | Wrist brace |
CN107260372A (en) * | 2017-06-28 | 2017-10-20 | 芜湖启泽信息技术有限公司 | A kind of medical knee protection device based on 3D printing technique |
US11564848B2 (en) | 2018-09-27 | 2023-01-31 | Exosseus Llc | Method of producing a custom-fit orthopedic immobilization device |
CN109498241A (en) * | 2019-01-02 | 2019-03-22 | 京东方科技集团股份有限公司 | Clamping plate and its operating method |
CN110433017A (en) * | 2019-08-13 | 2019-11-12 | 孙虹燕 | A kind of protective device using the fixed diabetes of Full connected gypsum |
CN112022480A (en) * | 2020-09-28 | 2020-12-04 | 上海交通大学 | Traction type personalized bone fracture medical splint and using method |
CN112641553A (en) * | 2020-12-22 | 2021-04-13 | 航天科工哈尔滨风华有限公司电站设备分公司 | Waterproof finger fixing clamp |
WO2023006972A1 (en) | 2021-07-29 | 2023-02-02 | Skincasts | Method and system for manufacturing an orthopaedic splint and associated orthopaedic splint |
WO2023006987A1 (en) | 2021-07-29 | 2023-02-02 | Skincasts | Method and system for manufacturing an orthopaedic splint and orthopaedic splint thereof |
FR3125700A1 (en) | 2021-07-29 | 2023-02-03 | Skincasts | Method and system for manufacturing an orthopedic splint and its orthopedic splint. |
FR3125699A1 (en) | 2021-07-29 | 2023-02-03 | Skincasts | Method and system for manufacturing an orthopedic splint and its orthopedic splint. |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
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US20200069454A1 (en) | 2020-03-05 |
US20230014237A1 (en) | 2023-01-19 |
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