It is quite common that patients with ligamentous ruptures, tendonitis, tenosynovitis or sprains are foreseen the use of ad hoc splints for a swift recovery. In this paper, we propose a rehabilitation split that is focused on upper-limb injuries. By considering that upper-limb patient shows a set of different characteristics, our proposal personalizes and prints the splint custom made though a digital model that is generated by a 3D commercial scanner. To fabricate the 3D scanned model the Stereolithography material (SLA) is considered due to the properties that this material offers. In order to complement the recovery process, an electronic system is implemented within the splint design. This system generates a set of pulses for a fix period of time that focuses mainly on a certain group of muscles to allow a fast recovery process known as Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation Principle (TENS).
In this paper, a cubic-like structure is proposed to scan and print tools used as medical equipment at low cost for developing countries. The structure features a 3-axis frame plane that uses high-precision step motors. An actuator drives the “x and y” axis through serrated bands with 2 mm pitch. Those give an accuracy of 2.5 microns tops. The z-axe is driven by and inductive sensor that allows us to keep the focus to the printing bed as well as to search for non-smooth areas to correct it and deliver an homogeneous impression. The 3D scanner as well as the entire gears are placed underneath in order to save space. As extrude tip, we are using a 445 nm UV laser with 2000 mW of power. The laser system is able to perform several functions such as crystallizing, engraving or cut though a set of mirror arrays. Crystallization occurs when the laser is guided towards the base. This process allows us to direct it towards the polymer injector and as a result, it crystalizes on the spot. Another feature that this system is the engraving process that occurs while the base moves. The movement allows the beam to pass freely towards the base and perform the engraving process.
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