This project is a collaboration between
NUS: Division of Industrial Design &
NUH: Department of Hand & Reconstructive Microsurgery.
HI, meet bend
A revolutionary Dynamic Traction Split for Proximal Interphalangeal Joint fractures and dislocation.
Bend was created as we saw the need to create a more effective and lifestyle friendly dynamic traction splint.
Bend is not just more effective, it is easier to use and has the possibility of being more affordable compared to any other current practices in the medical field.
Bend is not just more effective, it is easier to use and has the possibility of being more affordable compared to any other current practices in the medical field.
Bend’s sleek and simple form is more than just surface aesthetics, it is the mechanism itself that will create the traction force that is needed and also allowing the finger to move while using bend.
Design to be lifestyle friendly
require healing period: 4-6 weeks
working logic of bend
Design with customisation in mind
Bend only requires 4 key measurements base of the X-rays that was used to diagnoses the injuries, in order to create a custom fit for the patient. Bend is design with mass customisation in mind. It is 3D printed in nylon, bend’s physical size, mechanical properties are optimised with the uses these algorithm.
Design to bend
Bend is able to flex up to 50 degree (range of motion) while it maintains its traction force. This flexion is required for a better recovery and it is 30 degree more than the existing dynamic traction splint.
Design to be safer
It also does not require any k-wire incision, where a surgery is needed, and this decrease the chance of infection to the finger. By using an external method of mounting a string onto the nail by adhesive, it would provide enough strength that is needed for the traction force.
Design with usability in mind
Bend only required five components : Base Support, Splint, Cap, Nail Mount and String.
easy to use, little training is required.
Short History of bend
initial prototyping and testing of ideas
Product development of bend
meet bend, once again.
X-Ray, alignment test with radio-opaque makers
Xray in progress...
Special thanks to NUH Department of Hand & Reconstructive and Microsurgery, for the guidance and support throughout the entire project.
