Classification of one-piece convex faceplates by the flexibility and hardness of convex parts

- Mechanical analysis of 18 products using three-point bending and compression tests -

Abstract

　Purpose: To mechanically analyze and classify 18 convex faceplates in terms of their flexibility and the hardness of the convex portion.
　Methods: We conducted a three-point bending test to assess the flexibility of the convex faceplates and a compression test to assess the hardness of the convex portion. The values obtained from each test were plotted on a chart for analysis. Based on the findings, we classified the products by the flexibility of the faceplate and the hardness of the convex portions.
　Results: The faceplates were classified into five groups: the low flexibility, soft convexity group; the low flexibility, hard convexity group; the medium flexibility, soft convexity group; the medium flexibility, hard convexity group; and the high flexibility, soft convexity group. The test results demonstrated that each faceplate was able to be characterized by its flexibility and the hardness of the convex portion.
　Discussion: The range of orthosis options may be expanded by focusing on the flexibility of the faceplate itself and the hardness of its convex portion, which enable the selection of the most appropriate convex faceplates.