Adjustable Implant Spool Band Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current breast implants lack the ability for self-adjustment and fine-tuning post-implantation, requiring external intervention for size changes, which limits user control and convenience.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable implant with a spool mechanism and band system, allowing for diameter adjustment via a user-operable actuator, enabling the implant to be resized without external fluids or materials, and optionally incorporating a motor for remote control operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a tissue expander is used to prepare the subject for a permanent implant, then the skin is stretched to accommodate the implant, but the implant cannot be adjusted in size after implantation
Solution Approach 1:
The implant incorporates a dynamic adjustment mechanism that allows the implant size to be changed after implantation. The spool mechanism with band and pawl-ratchet system enables the implant to transition between different size states, making it adaptable rather than fixed.
Solution Approach 2:
The implant includes a self-contained adjustment system with actuators that can be operated by the user or provider to change implant size. The mechanism includes all necessary components (spool, band, pawls, ratchets, actuators) within the implant itself, eliminating the need for external adjustment equipment.
2Ease of operation
If a fill tube is used to adjust implant size by introducing or removing saline, then the implant size can be changed, but external intervention is required and the fill tube must be removed after adjustment
Solution Approach 1:
The implant contains a self-contained adjustment system with integrated actuators that can be operated to change implant size without requiring external equipment or personnel. The system includes motors or manual actuators, spools, bands, and locking mechanisms all within the implant.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustment mechanism is extracted from external equipment and integrated directly into the implant. The spool, band, pawls, ratchets, and actuators are all contained within the implant housing, eliminating the need for external fill tubes or adjustment equipment.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the implant structure is simplified without adjustment mechanisms, then manufacturing is easier, but the implant cannot be resized after implantation
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustment mechanism is divided into discrete modular components: spool, band, pawls, ratchets, and actuators. Each component can be manufactured separately using standard manufacturing processes, then assembled into the implant, making the complex mechanism easier to manufacture.
Solution Approach 2:
The band acts as an intermediary element that transmits force from the spool to the implant shell, enabling size adjustment. The pawls and ratchets serve as intermediary locking mechanisms that maintain implant size between adjustments, facilitating reliable operation.
Data Source
AI summary
An adjustable implant is disclosed herein. The adjustable implant may comprise a shell including membrane and a base and having a first diameter in a plane parallel to the base. A band may be disposed within the shell. The band may have a first end and a second end connected to a spool. The band may be in a round (e.g., elliptical) configuration having a second diameter in the plane that is less than the first diameter. By wrapping the band onto the spool, the diameter of the band may be decreased and the height of the implant may be increased. By unwrapping the band from the spool, the diameter of the band may be increased and the height of the implant may be decreased.