Connection arrangement of two components

Abstract

The present invention relates to a connection arrangement for two components. The connection arrangement (4, 4') of the two components (1, 2) according to the invention has a curved surface portion having a contact point on at least one of the components. For example, the curved surface portion can extend over the entire surface of a groove. The other component has a tapered portion. When the two components are assembled before force is applied, a linear connection is generated from the two contact point connections, and when force is applied, the linear connection is transformed by plastic deformation into a band connection, based on which the two components (1, 2) are held together.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an arrangement for connecting two components in an orthopedic system. The attachment portion of a first orthopedic component is securely connected to a recess, for example in the form of a groove, i.e. a hole in a second orthopedic component. The connection arrangement can be formed as a form fit, a non-positive or a friction connection arrangement or a combination thereof. The attachment portion of the first orthopedic component can be formed in the form of a truncated cone. The groove of the second orthopedic component can have an arcuate, convex surface. The connection of the two components is facilitated by the presence of an arcuate surface on one component. The components are self-aligning or aligned relative to each other. Damage is avoided. When the first orthopedic component is connected to the second orthopedic component, an orthopedic system is created that has a secure linear connection between the two components. Background Art

[0002] The prior art comprises various disclosures of connection means between two parts.

[0003] It is known that two parts are connected to each other in a form-fitting manner by means of a conical connection. This connection (Morse taper or machine taper) is a standard form of tool taper for clamping tools, such as large drill bits, reamers, and chucks in tool holders for machine tools. Due to the self-locking mechanism, torque is frictionally transmitted from the hollow taper of the driven tool spindle to the clamping shaft of the tool by means of static friction. The inclination angle of the Morse taper is approximately 1°26' to approximately 1°30' relative to the longitudinal axis. A secure conical connection by means of static friction requires a desired longitudinal expansion of the connection.

[0004] Matching taper connections are used in many orthopedic devices. For example, modular femoral implants can use a Morse taper, possibly with different angles of inclination, to attach the proximal end of the shaft to the ball head. In the case of a modular femoral implant, the distal shaft can include a frustoconical proximal end with the male portion of the connection, wherein the female portion of the part to be connected to the shaft has a suitable inner conical shape.

[0005] For example, US2014 / 0121713 discloses a system for connecting orthopedic components, wherein a protrusion of a first component is inserted into an orifice of a second component. The protrusion of the first component is divided into multiple regions, wherein the perimeter of the protrusion of the first component has a deformable surface element. The cross-section of these regions has a more tapered profile than a straight line. In a specific embodiment, the cross-section of the protrusion is disclosed to have an outwardly tapered portion.

[0006] A secure, precisely positioned connection of two orthopedic components by means of a tapered portion requires a corresponding longitudinal expansion of the connection area. In various applications, such as in the shoulder joint, this required length is not available. Therefore, only tapered connections with a small longitudinal expansion can be used there. Despite extreme care during implantation, there is still a risk that the connecting element will not be inserted orthogonally with respect to its longitudinal axis, but rather tilted. This can lead to damage to the components and restrict the mobility of the joint. This often leads to inflammation of the tissue surrounding the implant area, which can in turn be associated with possible pain.

[0007] It is therefore an object of the present invention to ensure a secure, permanent, removable and positionally accurate arrangement for connecting two orthopedic components. Summary of the Invention

[0008] According to the invention, this object is achieved by a connecting arrangement according to the invention.

[0009] Because the contact surfaces are curved, a connection arrangement is created in which the contact tension in the region of the contact surfaces is reduced in a very gentle manner, so that the contact tension does not drop gradually as in the case of a sharp line connection, wherein, when the first and second components are assembled before the introduction of force, a line connection is generated from a two-contact point connection and, when the force is applied, the line connection is transformed by plastic deformation into a strip connection, on the basis of which the two components are held together.

[0010] This is explained below by way of an example, which is also shown in the drawings and described in the associated description. However, the invention is not limited to this preferred example. In this example, the connection arrangement consists of a conical attachment portion or protrusion of the first component, which is inserted into a groove of the second component. The groove has a convex curved surface. When the two components are assembled, the conical attachment portion or protrusion of the first component is inserted into the groove of the second component. See in detail Figure 10. At an angle deviating from 90°, a two-contact point connection is first produced, and during further insertion, a line connection of the two components is produced. This line connection extends on or around the conical attachment portion or protrusion or also on a convex curved surface and forms a closed circumferential line connection. This applies before the application of force. If force is subsequently applied, for example by striking one of the components in the connection direction of the components, the line connection is transformed into a band connection by means of plastic deformation, based on which the two components are held together. If the line connection still remains after the application of force, the contact tension at the (sharp) line connection will gradually drop. Such tension jumps can easily destroy one of the components, which must be avoided in orthopedic systems. However, according to the present invention, after the introduction of force, the line connection is already transformed into a band connection by plastic deformation. As a result, the contact tension is reduced in a gentle manner. In this context, "in a gentle manner" means that the contact tension does not change sharply or suddenly, but rather changes softly or gradually over a specific area. There is therefore no gradual drop, i.e. there is no sudden drop in the contact tension. When using the connection arrangement, i.e., when using an orthotic system, further forces may or will be introduced, widening the belt connection through further plastic deformation. This creates a self-adjusting connection arrangement that responds to high force input in a self-adjusting manner. One of the components is preferably composed of metal. It is sufficient if only the contact surface of this component is made of metal. For example, titanium is a very suitable metal for use in orthotic systems. The other component or its contact surface is preferably composed of ceramic. Ceramics are much harder than metal, so plastic deformation will occur in metal.

[0011] The main feature of the invention is the line connection of the two parts, which is converted into a belt connection when force is applied. In extreme cases, it is also possible to connect the two parts without first creating a two-point contact connection, but immediately creating a line connection. To do this, the first part must be inserted into the groove of the second part at an absolutely precise 90° angle. Even small deviations from this 90° will initially create a two-point contact connection. See for details. Figure 10 The angle is shown there. This has been explained above. A theoretical approach would be to create a line connection first and then a ribbon connection when connecting two components, without creating a two-contact connection before the line connection. In practice, however, this scenario is highly unlikely, especially during operation. Regardless, assembling two components without first creating a two-contact connection utilizes the present invention.

[0012] The width of the strip connection is preferably between 0.5 mm and 2 mm and depends on the magnitude of the force applied and thus on the degree of plastic deformation.

[0013] The orthotic system has at least two components and a connecting arrangement according to the invention.

[0014] The present invention relates to an orthopedic system comprising an arrangement for connecting two components. An attachment portion of a first component, formed in the form of a tongue or protrusion, is securely connected to a recess in the form of a groove of a second component. The connection can be formed as a form fit, a non-positive or friction connection, or a combination thereof. The attachment portion formed at the first end of the first component can be in the form of a truncated cone, the diameter of which increases from the distal end. The increase in diameter can be a constant increase. The attachment portion can also have a shape that deviates from a truncated cone, for example a cylindrical shape with a constant diameter. The periphery of the attachment portion can have different dimensions, depending on the shape and position. The entire surface of the attachment portion or a part or partial area thereof is part of the connection arrangement and forms a connection means between the first component and the second component. When the two components are installed and assembled, the surface or partial area of ​​the first component is in operative connection with the surface or partial area of ​​the second component. According to the invention, the operative connection is produced along a linear contact, a circumferential line.

[0015] In another embodiment, the attachment portion can include at least two areas. These areas can be arranged at a certain distance from each other. The cross-section of the first area arranged at the distal end of the first component is smaller than the diameter of the cross-section of the second area arranged at a distance from the distal end. The two areas can be formed conically. The angle of the taper of the first area can deviate from the angle of the taper of the second area. It can be larger or smaller. The two angles of the taper can also have the same value. The first area can be formed as an insertion aid and facilitate the implantation of the component. The second area can serve as part of the connection arrangement structure and ensure fixed and secure positioning of the component. To this end, the second area of ​​the attachment portion has a surface area, by means of which the active connection can be established.

[0016] The groove formed at the second end of the second orthopedic component is defined by a peripheral surface and a base surface. The peripheral surface can be formed as an arc-shaped curved surface. Starting from the distal end of the groove, the cross-section of the groove can decrease over a first region until reaching a minimum cross-section. This minimum cross-section, i.e., the apex, can be approximately half the depth of the groove. From the apex, the cross-section can increase to the bottom of the groove or remain constant. This creates the curvature of the second component, i.e., the convex surface of the concave portion of the groove. According to embodiments of the present disclosure, the groove has a curvature and an apex. The apex can be located at any distance from the base surface of the groove.

[0017] An embodiment is also possible, in which the curved portion has a plurality of vertices and the surface of the groove is thus formed in the form of a wave.

[0018] The peripheral surface, i.e., the surface of the groove, can follow various mathematical functions. For example, it can be formed by a polynomial, a sine function, or another mathematical function and include only one or more vertices. According to the present invention, a curved curve can also be formed by combining multiple mathematical functions. The curved curve can be continuous, wherein the function can be differentiated twice continuously at any point. The curvature of the surface can extend over the entire peripheral surface or only over a portion thereof. According to the present invention, the portion of the peripheral surface formed by the curvature can include a single vertex. This curvature can extend over the entire peripheral surface or only over a portion thereof.

[0019] According to the present invention, as described above, a curved surface can also be formed on the protrusion or attachment portion of the first orthopedic component. Starting from the distal end of the protrusion, the cross-section of the protrusion can increase over a first region until reaching a maximum cross-section, i.e., the apex. This can be approximately half the length of the protrusion. From the protrusion's maximum cross-section, i.e., the apex, the cross-section can decrease toward the proximal end of the protrusion. This creates a convex surface of the protrusion. The aforementioned description applies regarding the curvature, positioning, and longitudinal expansion of the curved portion forming the convex surface. If the curved surface is formed on the protrusion of the first component, the second component can have, for example, a cylindrical or conical recess, i.e., a concave portion.

[0020] Depending on the application, the degree of curvature and the location of the apex on the concave portion or protrusion can vary.

[0021] The diameters of the recesses in the second component and the protrusions in the first component are coordinated to create a permanent, secure connection when the first and second components are joined, regardless of which component has the curved surface. The curved surface supports orthogonal alignment of the two components. When properly assembled, a linear contact always exists between the two components, where the linear contact relative to the protrusion or recess is closed, i.e., it forms a circle around the protrusion or recess. The linear contact preferably extends in a single plane, but can also deviate from this plane.

[0022] If two components are aligned at an angle that deviates from orthogonal alignment when joining them together, the two components can initially come into contact at two points. By applying an appropriate force, this two-point contact is converted into linear contact, thereby creating a secure connection between the two components.

[0023] According to the present invention, one of the two components has a curved surface in the area where the two components are joined. This curved surface comprises 50%, preferably 30%, particularly preferably 15%, but at least 10% of the total area over which the curved surface is arranged. In other words, the curved surface is part of the peripheral surface of the groove, for example, the above information relates to the peripheral surface of this groove. A specific embodiment of the connection arrangement according to the present invention comprises a single curved surface. This curved portion consists of an ascending portion, a vertex, and a descending portion, for example, half a sine period. Surprisingly, it has been found that a single curved surface is sufficient to provide a secure connection between the two components.

[0024] If two components are to be permanently but removably connected to an orthotic system via an adapter, the connection arrangement according to the present invention can be arranged between the adapter and the first component and / or between the adapter and the second component. Both the adapter and the components can have curved surfaces. The adapter can also have two curved surfaces. The connection between the adapter and the first component is established via the first curved surface, and the connection between the adapter and the second component is established via the second curved surface. According to the present invention, an orthotic system having at least three components and at least two connection arrangements is created.

[0025] The advantage of the present invention is that the contact point between the two components is precisely defined. This contact point can be accurately calculated before assembling the two components and remains constant after proper installation and even under heavy loads. Consequently, the stress distribution or stress distribution pattern remains constant, which is not the case with standard taper connections. Furthermore, jamming is avoided, particularly in cases where the diameter-to-height ratio of the connection is large.

[0026] Another advantage of the present invention is that the two components automatically align themselves orthogonally during the process, i.e., during the installation process. Furthermore, damage can be avoided during the installation process by the connection arrangement according to the present invention. Since the diameter of the recess increases after the apex of the recess of the second component, the distal end or an edge at the distal end of the first component cannot damage the recess of the second component after the two-point contact has been made. There is sufficient free space to avoid damage after the two components have been centered. In this context, "centering" means manually applying or inserting the frustoconical first component into the recess of the second component, or vice versa. This is one of the first steps in joining the two components; creating two-point contact. At this stage of the process, it is not necessary or guaranteed that the two components are aligned orthogonally to each other.

[0027] The connection arrangement of two components according to the present invention includes a curved surface portion having a contact point on at least one of the components. For example, the curved surface portion can extend over the entire surface of a groove. The other component has a tapered portion. When the two components are assembled before force is applied, a linear connection is created from the two contact points. When force is applied, the linear connection transforms through plastic deformation into a band connection, which holds the two components together. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0028] The present invention will be explained with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0029] Figure 1 shows a cross section of a connection between two components in a sectional view (partly sectional and partly schematic);

[0030] Figure 2 The cross-sectional and schematic views show the Figure 1 Amplified connection points;

[0031] Figure 3 are alternative embodiments of connection points shown in cross-section and schematically;

[0032] Figure 4 is a cross-section of an alternative form of connection according to the invention of three components shown in sectional view and schematically;

[0033] Figure 5 The cross-sectional and schematic views show the Figure 1 Amplified connection points;

[0034] Figure 6 are alternative embodiments of connection points shown in cross-section and schematic views;

[0035] Figure 7 It is shown in the enlarged image Figure 6 The section Z in FIG. 1 is not drawn to scale in order to make it easier to see the basic situation;

[0036] Figure 8 is a cross-section of an alternative form of connection according to the invention, which has a large cone angle and is therefore of flat design;

[0037] Figure 9 The cross-sectional and schematic views show an enlarged view of the Figure 8 Connect the dots;

[0038] Figure 10 An example of two-point contact between the taper and the ring is shown; and

[0039] Figure 11 Shown according to Figure 10 The tapered portion has a tensile contact gap to the ring. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0040] All the drawings contain schematic representations of parts of the invention and serve to explain the invention by way of example. Specific embodiments of the invention can deviate from these drawings.

[0041] Figure 1 The connection arrangement 4 of two orthopedic components is shown, here a connection arrangement of a shaft 17 of a first component 1 and a ball head 18 of a second component 2 . Figure 1 The region of the shaft 17 shown in FIG has a protrusion or attachment portion 5 at its first end 7. Starting from position 19 of the shaft 17, the diameter D1 of the attachment portion 5 decreases continuously until its distal end 6. Figure 1 In the embodiment of the present invention, the attachment portion 5 is formed in the form of a truncated cone. The truncated cone has a peripheral surface or contact surface 27. The two components can be part of a hip prosthesis, a shoulder prosthesis or a finger or ankle prosthesis or other joint prosthesis.

[0042] The second component 2 has a recess or groove 10. The groove 10 is delimited by a peripheral surface 16 and a base surface or bottom 12, and is opposed to the bottom by an opening 14. The peripheral surface 16 can be formed entirely or partially as a contact surface 29. The contact surface 29 can be formed in a portion or region of the peripheral surface 16. Starting from the second end 11 of the component 2, starting from the opening 14 of the groove 10, the peripheral surface 16 of the groove 10 is curved in whole or in part. This curvature creates a convex curved surface 28, which is identical to the contact surface 29 and is formed in the groove 10. Figure 1 The same as for the peripheral surface 16. Starting from the opening 14 of the groove 10, the diameter or the amount of the cross section Q of the groove 10 decreases to a point, the vertex K. From this vertex K, the amount of the cross section Q increases again until the area in which the peripheral surface 16 merges into the base surface 12 of the groove 10. This results in a curved surface 28 of the groove 10, which comprises the surface portion 23 formed as an ascending portion, the vertex K, and the surface portion 30 designed as a descending portion.

[0043] When the shaft 17 of the first component 1 is coupled to the ball head 18 of the second component 2, contact between the two components occurs at the contact point KP. In this embodiment of the invention, the contact point KP is located on the peripheral surface 16 or contact surface 27 below the vertex K in the direction of the second end 11 or opening 14. The gap between the contact point KP and the base surface 12 of the groove 10 is Figure 1 The gap AB between the contact point KP and the vertex K (see Figure 7 ) depends on the type of frustum of the first component and the curvature of the contact surface 27.

[0044] Thus, in this embodiment, the contact between the two components is below the vertex K in the direction of the orifice. The contact point KP, at which the operative connection takes place, is arranged at a distance from the vertex K on the contact surfaces 27, 29 in the direction of the opening of the second component 2. The contact point and the vertex only coincide with a cylindrical shape, for example, instead of a truncated cone according to the invention. With a truncated cone or a tapered portion having a very large angle, the contact point is close to the orifice of the groove 10.

[0045] The contact surface 27 of component 1 and the contact surface 29 of component 2 are in active connection. The inventive design of the curved contact surface 29 or surface 28 of the groove 10 and the contact surface 27 of the shaft 17 allows the contact point of the two components to be precisely determined and fixed. This is particularly true if the contact surface 27 forms a mathematical function, such as a circular or parabolic cross-section. Circles make it particularly easy to calculate the position of the contact point KP. This is a significant advantage in the case of components that, due to their application, can only have a very small length in the longitudinal direction. Despite the shallow depth T of the groove 10, a secure connection between the two components can still be achieved. This makes it possible to provide an orthotic system with a secure connection between the two components in the area of ​​the shoulder joint, for children, or in the veterinary department.

[0046] Figure 2 The connection arrangement 4 of the two components is shown in an enlarged view. It can be seen that the contact of the first component 1 with the second component 2 is concentrated on a narrow contact area. At the contact point KP, a line contact is produced between the contact surface 29 and the contact surface 27.

[0047] Linear contact is determined by the radius R of the contact surface 29 or 28 of component 2 and the angle α of the contact surface 27 of component 1. The position of the contact point KP can be determined by appropriate changes. The contact point KP is moved away from the opening of the second end 11 of the second component 2 at a constant radius R and a smaller angle α to a vertex K, where the diameter of the groove 10 is the smallest. The distance H from the opening 14 where the contact point KP is located increases. On the other hand, if the angle α increases at the same radius R, the distance H between the contact point KP and the opening 14 decreases accordingly.

[0048] In accordance with Figure 2In the embodiment of the present invention, the curved contact surface 29 or surface 28 at position M merges into the second end 11 of component 2. This second end 11 is formed as a flat side 20. The contact surface 29 and the flat side 20 of the groove 10 form an intersection point M. The intersection point M also defines the end of the curvature of the contact surface 29 in the direction of the second end 11 of the groove 10. After the components 1 and 2 are connected, the intersection point M and a point A on the contact surface 27 on the axis 17 of the first component 1 are arranged spaced apart from each other. Point A is located at the intersection point M in the horizontal extension of the flat side 20 in the direction of the axis 17 on the first component 1. The connection arrangement 4 according to the present invention has a distance between the intersection point M and point A, which decreases in the direction of the contact point KP until the distance at the contact point KP reaches zero.

[0049] In accordance with Figure 1 and 2 In the embodiment of FIG. 2 , the peripheral surface 16 corresponds to the contact surface 29 and the surface 28 .

[0050] Figure 3 An alternative embodiment of the connection 4 according to the present invention is shown for two orthopedic components 1 and 2. The peripheral surface 16 of the groove 10 comprises multiple sections or regions. The peripheral surface 16 is formed, starting from the flat side 20, by the opening 14 of the groove 10 through a flat surface portion 21. This surface portion 21 is arranged at an angle β relative to the flat side 20. A curved portion 23 adjoins the surface portion 21. The above description of the contact surface 29 applies to the curved portion of this surface portion 23. The curved portion 23 extends from the intersection M to the vertex K and is formed as an ascending portion. This means that the diameter of the groove 10 decreases in the region of the surface portion 23 from the intersection M to the vertex K. The intersection M is formed at the transition from the surface portion 21 to the surface portion 23. The intersection M is located at a distance X from the flat side 20. After the two components 1 and 2 are joined, point A is located on the contact surface 27 on the axis 17 of the component 1 in the horizontal direction of the intersection M and is therefore also at the same distance X from the flat side 20 of the second component. The intersection M and point A are spaced apart from each other. A further curved surface portion 30 can be arranged after the curved surface portion 23. With regard to the degree of their curvature and their length, the curved surface portions 23 and 30 can comprise values ​​of the same or different sizes. The surface portion 23 is formed as an ascending portion; the surface portion 30 is formed as a descending portion. The above description of the ascending portion can also apply to the descending portion, with the difference that, in the case of the descending portion, the diameter of the groove 10 increases from the vertex K in the direction of the bottom 12. The shapes of the ascending portion and the descending portion can also be different. The curved surface portions 23 and 30 and the vertex K located between these two surface portions 23 and 30 form a curvature, i.e. the contact surface 29. After the curved surface portion 30, a further surface portion 22 that is identical or similar to the surface portion 21 can be arranged and formed. In accordance with Figure 3In the exemplary embodiment, the peripheral surface 16 of the groove 10 is formed by at least two surface sections; four surface sections ( 21 , 23 , 22 , 30 ) are shown. The contact area 29 corresponds to the surface sections 23 and 30 , with the contact point KP arranged between the surface sections 23 and 30 . Both surface sections 23 and 30 have a curvature as described above. The proportions of the areas of the surface sections 21 , 23 and 30 , 23 , can be of equal or different sizes relative to the peripheral surface 16 . A secure connection according to the present invention is achieved when the proportion of the curved surface sections 23 and 30 is 50%, preferably 30%, and particularly preferably 15%, of the surface 28 .

[0051] This embodiment is an example of the fact that the contact surface 29 forms only a part of the peripheral surface 16. Since the contact point KP is only in this area, only this area is decisive for the strength of the connection.

[0052] Figure 4 The orthotic system is shown, consisting of a first component 1, a second component 2, and a third component 8, connecting elements, and an adapter 8. Identical reference numerals have the same meanings as above. The orthotic system has two connecting arrangements 4 and 4' according to the present invention. The first connecting arrangement 4 is arranged between the second component 2 and the adapter 8, and the second connecting arrangement 4' is arranged between the adapter 8 and the first component 1. The above description applies to the connecting arrangement 4 between the second component 2 and the adapter 8.

[0053] The adapter 8 has a groove 9 in the form of a through hole. According to the above description, the contact surface 29 on the peripheral surface 16 and the surface 28 of the groove 9 are curved. According to the above description, the shaft 17 of the first component 1 is formed. Figure 4 The arrangement makes it possible to provide an orthotic system consisting of a plurality of components 1 , 2 , 8 , which has a plurality of connection arrangements 4 , 4 ′ according to the invention.

[0054] As Figure 4 As an alternative to the arrangement of the curved contact surface 29 shown in FIG, this can also be arranged on other surfaces, for example on the peripheral surface 26 of the adapter 8 or on the attachment portion 5 of the first component 1. Regardless of the arrangement of the curved contact surface 29, the connection arrangement 4, 4 ' according to the invention has a curved surface 16, 28, 29 arranged on one component and a contact surface 27 arranged on the second or third component and operatively connected to the curved surface. Both the curved surface 29 and the contact surface 27 can be partial areas of separate surfaces.

[0055] Figure 5The example of a component 2 with a ball head of diameter D2 and the positioning of the contact point KP on the peripheral surface 16 is shown. The contact point KP is arranged at a distance H from the flat side 20. T is the depth of the groove 10 and extends from the bottom 12 of the groove 10 to the opening 14 and then to the flat side 20 of the component 2. The peripheral surface 16 of the groove 10 is curved as described above. Figure 5 Starting from the intersection point M arranged on the flat side 20, the curvature extends in the direction of the center axis Y. As a result, the contact point KP is arranged offset from the intersection point M in the direction of the center axis Y. A distance B is formed between the contact point KP and the intersection point M. Figure 5 In the embodiment of , this value corresponds to H=T / 3. Depending on the application, the contact point KP can be arranged at another position, but it is always arranged below the vertex K.

[0056] The connection arrangement according to the invention of two components comprises a curved surface portion on at least one of the components, with a vertex K and a contact point KP. For example, the curved surface portion can extend over the entire surface of the groove. A closed angle is then formed from the vertex, i.e., a circular line formed by a plurality of contact points KP arranged in a row. After the two components are connected, a linearly effective connection is formed at this vertex or this angle.

[0057] Figure 6 An alternative connection arrangement 4 for two orthopedic components is shown, here a shaft 17 of a first component 1, with a ball head 18 of a second component 2. The shaft 17 has a protrusion or attachment portion 5 at its first end 7. Starting from position 19 of the shaft 17, the diameter D1 of the attachment portion 5 decreases continuously to its distal end 6, forming a truncated cone. The truncated cone has a peripheral surface or contact surface 27. Like all other design variants, the two components can be part of a hip prosthesis, a shoulder prosthesis, a finger or ankle prosthesis, or other joint prostheses.

[0058] Second component 2 has a recess or groove 10. Groove 10 is bounded by a peripheral surface 16 and a base surface or bottom 12, which is opposed by an opening 14. In this embodiment, peripheral surface 16 is formed in two parts, i.e., it consists of two different geometric shapes. Starting from second end 11 of component 2, from opening 14 of groove 10, peripheral surface 16 of groove 10 is curved and forms a contact surface 29, on which contact point KP is located. The curvature of contact surface 29 creates a convex curved surface. From opening 14 of groove 10, the diameter D1 of groove 10 decreases to a point, vertex K. From vertex K, the diameter D1 remains constant to base 12; i.e., from vertex K, peripheral surface 16 forms a hollow cylinder 32. The cavity in hollow cylinder 32 is designed to receive the remainder of shaft 17, i.e., the portion of attachment portion 5 located between contact point KP and distal end 6 of shaft 17. When implanted, synovial fluid will be present in this area.

[0059] In this embodiment, the contact surface 29 is preferably formed in a circular shape.

[0060] When the shaft 17 of the first component 1 is coupled to the ball head 18 of the second component 2, contact between the two components occurs at a contact point KP. The contact point KP is located on the peripheral surface 16 or contact surface 29 below the vertex K in the direction of the second end 11 or opening 14. The gap between the contact point KP and the vertex K is determined by the geometric configuration of the truncated cone of the first component 1 and the curvature of the contact surface 29 of the second component 2.

[0061] This embodiment has the decisive advantage that the exact position of the contact point KP can be easily determined by the circular design of the contact surface 29 , in particular from the cone angle and radius R of the projection 5 . Forming the cavity above the vertex K as a hollow cylinder 32 greatly simplifies the production of the component 2 .

[0062] Figure 7 Shown Figure 6 Segment Z. A circular contact surface 29 can be seen, on which the contact point KP is located and which merges into the hollow cylinder 32 at the vertex K. At the contact point KP, the contact surface 29 contacts the contact surface 27 of the projection 5 of the shaft 17 .

[0063] Figure 8 The connection arrangement 4 according to the invention is again schematically shown, comprising a second orthopedic component 2 (i.e., a ball head) and a first orthopedic component (i.e., a shaft 1), the upper end of which is formed as a taper. The circumferential surface 16 or contact surface 29 of the ball head is formed as a portion of a ring having a radius R. For clarity, the complete ring is shown. The longitudinal axis is designated by reference numeral 33. In this embodiment, longitudinal axis 33 also forms the axis of rotation.

[0064] Figure 9 The connection points are shown in cross-section and schematically, i.e. according to Figure 8 The enlarged contact point KP is shown. At contact point KP (here labeled P1), the portion of the first orthopedic component 1 designed as a taper contacts the contact area 29 of the ball head, which is formed as a ring with a radius R. The taper angle of the protrusion 5 is labeled α and forms a "male taper." The distance P2-P3 represents the gap at the orifice. The height H between the contact point P1 and the gap at the orifice is the same as the distance between the contact point P1 and the orifice.

[0065] Figure 10 and 11 The joining process of two components 1, 2 is shown in 3D, which are initially arranged at an angle which deviates from an orthogonal alignment. The attachment portion 5 of the first component 1 is inserted into the groove 10 of the second component 2, wherein initially a two-point contact is formed between the attachment portion 5, the tapered portion 35 of the first component 1 and the annular contact surface 29 of the second component 2. This two-point contact occurs when the two components (1 and 2) are arranged at an angle which deviates from 90° to each other. Reference numeral 33 indicates the longitudinal axis of component 1. Reference numeral 37 indicates the longitudinal axis of component 2. The two axes are arranged at an angle which deviates from 90° to each other. This initially results in a two-point contact. The contact points of the two-point contact are indicated by reference numeral 36 (see Figure 10 ).

[0066] Figure 11 Shown according to Figure 10 The tapered portion 35 and the contact surface 29 of component 2 are arranged at an angle deviating from 90° relative to each other. This creates a two-point contact connection between components 1 and 2. One of these two contact points is shown and designated by reference numeral 36. The second contact point is arranged 180° from the first contact point. A gap 38 exists between the contact points, increasing from contact point 36 toward the second contact point 36. Gap 38 reaches its maximum width in the region of half the distance between the contact points.

[0067] The basis of the two components Figure 10 and 11 The connection condition is unstable and not permanent and should be avoided. When the connection is further connected from two contact points, the curved surface according to the invention on at least one component transforms the connection into a line contact. Figure 10 Starting from the connected state, for example, the attachment portion 5 of the first component 1 is further inserted into the groove 10 of the second component 2. The arcuate contact surface 29 according to the present invention transforms the two contact point connection into a line contact and simultaneously into an orthogonal alignment of the two components 1 and 2. This makes it possible to Figure 10 and 11 The connection state is converted into Figure 1The connection status of Figure 1 In the embodiment of the present invention, the two components 1 and 2 are arranged at an angle of 90° to each other. As a result, before the force is applied, a line contact is generated that extends over the entire peripheral surface.

[0068] List of reference numerals:

[0069]

[0070]

Claims

1. A connection arrangement (4, 4') of an orthopedic system for connecting a plurality of components (1, 2, 8), wherein: The connecting arrangement (4, 4') comprises a first component (1) and a second component (2), at least one contact surface (27, 29) being arranged on each of the first component (1) and the second component (2), The invention is characterized in that the contact surface (29) of the second component (2) is curved and the contact surface (27) of the first component (1) is configured as a tapered portion, wherein the tapered portion narrows in the direction of the second component (2), wherein the contact surface (29) of the second component (2) is convexly formed in cross section and has a circular cross section, and the circular cross section extends over the entire contact surface (29), and wherein a line connection is generated when assembling the first component (1) and the second component (2) before a force is introduced from the two contact points, and when the force is introduced, the line connection is changed into a band connection by plastic deformation, and the first component (1) and the second component (2) are held together based on the band connection.

2. The connection arrangement according to claim 1, characterized in that The line connection and the belt connection are formed around the first component (1) and the second component (2).

3. The connection arrangement according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that One of the two contact surfaces (27, 29) is made of metal and the other contact surface (27, 29) is made of ceramic.

4. The connection arrangement according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that The curved contact surface (29) of the second component (2) is arranged on a groove (10) formed by the bottom (12), the peripheral surface (16) and the opening (14).

5. The connection arrangement according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that The curved profile of the contact surface (29) is formed continuously, wherein its function can be differentiated twice continuously at any point.

6. The connection arrangement according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that The contact surface (29) is arranged on the protrusion (5) of the second component (2).

7. An orthotic system consisting of at least two components (1, 2, 8) having a connection arrangement (4, 4') according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. An orthotic system consisting of at least two components (1, 2, 8) with two connection arrangements (4, 4') according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

9. A connection arrangement (4, 4') of an orthotic system for connecting a first component (1) to a second component (2), wherein a contact surface (27, 29) is arranged on each of the first component (1) and the second component (2), and when the first component (1) and the second component (2) are connected at a contact point (KP), the contact surfaces (27, 29) form an operative connection, wherein The contact surface of one of the first component (1) and the second component (2) is formed as a tapered portion, wherein the tapered portion narrows toward the other of the first component (1) and the second component (2), characterized in that the contact surface (27, 29) of the other component is curved at the contact point (KP), wherein the contact surface (29) of the second component (2) is convexly formed in cross section and has a circular cross section, and the circular cross section extends over the entire contact surface (29), wherein a line connection is generated when assembling the first component (1) and the second component (2) before introducing a force from the two contact points, and when the force is introduced, the line connection is changed into a band connection by plastic deformation, and the first component (1) and the second component (2) are held together based on the band connection.

10. The connection arrangement according to claim 9, characterized in that The contact surface (27, 29) of the further component is convexly shaped in cross section in the region of the contact point (KP).

11. The connection arrangement according to claim 9, characterized in that The contact surface (27, 29) of the further component has a circular cross section at least in the region of the contact point (KP).

12. The connection arrangement according to claim 11, characterized in that The cross section extends over the entire contact surface (27, 29) or over only a portion thereof.

13. The connection arrangement according to claim 12, characterized in that The cross section extends over the entire contact surface (27, 29), and all contact points (KP) are arranged on a surface or plane extending perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis (33) or obliquely relative to the longitudinal axis (33).

14. The connection arrangement according to any one of claims 9 to 13, characterized in that The peripheral surface (16) of the other component from the bottom (12) of the groove (10) to the apex (K) is formed in a cylindrical shape or in a hollow cylinder (32), the diameter or cross section (Q) of the groove (10) at the apex (K) is smallest, and the peripheral surface (16) forms the contact surface (27, 29) from the apex (K) to the opening (14) of the other component (2), wherein the contact point (KP) is arranged on the contact surface (27, 29).

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