Adjustable Fixation Clamp for Bone Fracture External Fixation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current external fixation systems for bone fractures require multiple clamps to connect multiple screws, pins, or wires to a rod, bar, or ring, resulting in a bulky configuration due to the need for separate clamps for each fixation point, which increases the system's size and complexity.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable fixation clamp with a longitudinal axis, comprising first and second clamp assemblies connected by a shaft with a threaded portion and vise plates having recesses and insertion portions, allowing for the simultaneous connection of multiple fixation components to a connector, enabling rotation and axial movement while preventing rotation between clamp assemblies, and securing them with a nut.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple separate clamps are used to connect multiple fixation components to a rod, then each fixation point is securely connected, but the system becomes bulky and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate clamps into a single integrated clamp assembly that can secure multiple fixation components (screws, pins, or wires) to a rod simultaneously. The clamp body includes multiple clamping surfaces and securing mechanisms that allow attachment of several fixation points through one unified structure, thereby reducing system complexity while maintaining secure connections.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamp assembly is designed with universal functionality to accommodate different types of fixation components (screws, pins, wires) and different rod configurations. The modular design with adjustable clamping surfaces allows the same clamp structure to perform multiple functions, replacing what would traditionally require several different specialized clamps.
2Reliability
If multiple separate clamps are used to connect multiple fixation components to a rod, then each fixation point is securely connected, but the system size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent consolidates multiple separate clamp structures into one integrated clamp assembly, significantly reducing the overall volume occupied by the fixation system. By combining multiple clamping functions into a single compact unit, the system size is minimized while still providing secure connection capabilities for multiple fixation points.
3Volume of moving object
If a single clamp connects multiple fixation components, then the system size is reduced, but the clamp structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp assembly is segmented into modular components including a clamp body, multiple clamping surfaces, and independent securing mechanisms for each fixation component. This segmentation allows the complex functionality to be organized into manageable, standardized modules that can be manufactured separately and assembled systematically, reducing the perceived complexity despite the integrated design.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the clamp allows rotation and axial movement, then adjustability is improved, but the stability of the connection is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp assembly incorporates dynamic adjustment capabilities that allow rotation and axial movement during the setup phase to accommodate different rod positions and fixation component orientations. Once adjusted to the desired configuration, locking mechanisms engage to freeze the positions, providing stable fixed connections. This dynamic-to-static transition allows the clamp to be both adjustable and stable.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamp design allows preliminary adjustment of position and orientation before final securing. The adjustment mechanisms can be operated to achieve the desired configuration, and then locking features are engaged to prevent further movement. This preliminary action approach ensures both adjustability during installation and stability during use.
Data Source
Figure 1
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Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
An adjustable fixation clamp having first and second clamp assemblies positioned about a shaft. The clamp assemblies may each have a pair of vise plates. Each pair of vise plates may define at least two receiving portions and insertion portions intersecting the receiving portions. The receiving portions of one clamp assembly may receive at least two fixation components such as screws, pins or wires. The receiving portions of the other clamp assembly may receive at least one connector such as a rod, bar and/or ring. A biasing structure may be positioned between the first and second clamp assemblies and may allow for the fixation components to be snapped into the receiving portions through the insertion portions. Two or more adjustable fixation clamps may be used to form an external fixation system. At least two screws, pins or wires may be inserted into bone and one of the clamp assemblies may be attached thereto. A guide may be used for insertion of screws, pins or wires into bone. The other clamp assembly may be connected to a rod, bar or ring. Thereafter, the clamp assemblies may be oriented relative to each other and locked in place.