Mobilization Wedge

This is a mobilization wedge used by physical therapists to perform manual spinal mobilization techniques and other various exercises. The tool size is 2" X 7" X 4". This tool is normally $34.99. A conservative estimate for the price of PLA is $20/kg. 3D print cost is approximately $3.60. I created this tool using FreeCAD. The FreeCAD and stl files are attached.

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  Completed print. As you can see, the print is incomplete and has poor print quality. This is due to a new calibration issue that has not yet been resolved

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  Design

Bill of Materials[edit | edit source]

1. In order to print this device, approximately 180 grams of PLA is needed.
   1. All CAD and STL files can be found on YouMagine from the following link: [1]

Tools needed[edit | edit source]

1. MOST Delta RepRap or similar RepRap 3-D printer

Skills and knowledge needed[edit | edit source]

• No special skills are needed to print this design.

Technical Specifications and Assembly Instructions[edit | edit source]

1. There are no assembly instructions. This is a one piece print and it does not require the use of supports when printing. The print however does need to withstand the weight of a person. For that reason, an infill of at least 25% is recommended.
2. A conservative print time estimate is 9 hours.
3. There is no assembly time.

Common Problems and Solutions[edit | edit source]

• A common problem would be printing with too small of an infill percentage and the part not being strong enough.

Cost savings[edit | edit source]

1. This tool is normally $34.99. A conservative estimate for the price of PLA is $20/kg. The print is estimated at 180 grams. 3D print cost is approximately $3.60.
2. A commercial equivalent product can be found at the following link: [2]
3. The cost savings is $31.39 per unit. This is a 90% cost savings.

Benefited Internet Communities[edit | edit source]

• Doctors without Borders [3]
• Physical Therapist Forum - WebPT [4]
• Physical Therapist Forum - The Student Doctor Network [5]
• UNICEF [6]
• Oxfam [7]

References[edit | edit source]

• All of the information for this design and the use of this design came from discussing it with practicing Doctors of Physical Therapy.