Aiming Device Elastic Finger Sleeve Locking

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing target devices for training prostheses often cause damage to surrounding tissue during the insertion of recesses in bones, and they can be cumbersome to handle safely.

Innovation Solution

A target device with a protective sleeve that is secured within a guide opening by an elastic finger, which can be axially and radially deflected to provide a holding force, preventing the sleeve from falling out unintentionally.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Object-affected harmful factors

If a protective sleeve is used to shield the tool when creating the recess in the bone, then tissue damage is prevented, but the protective sleeve may accidentally fall out of the guide opening and handling becomes cumbersome

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetissue damageVSAvoidhandling of targeting device
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The elastic finger automatically engages with the protective sleeve upon insertion, securing it without requiring manual intervention. The system serves itself by using the insertion motion to trigger the locking mechanism, eliminating the need for separate securing actions while preventing sleeve loss during use.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The elastic finger acts as an intermediary element between the guide opening and the protective sleeve. It mediates the connection by providing automatic mechanical engagement that secures the sleeve while allowing smooth insertion, thus resolving the conflict between secure retention and easy handling.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If the protective sleeve is secured firmly to prevent falling out, then reliable handling is achieved, but the insertion of the sleeve into the guide opening becomes more difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecure positioning of protective sleeveVSAvoidinsertion of protective sleeve into guide opening
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The elastic finger provides dynamic engagement that adapts to the insertion process. During insertion, the finger deflects to allow smooth passage of the sleeve, then automatically engages to secure it in place. This dynamic behavior resolves the contradiction between easy insertion and firm securing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The elastic properties of the finger allow the engagement force to change during insertion. The finger exhibits higher compliance during insertion and higher rigidity during secure positioning, changing the mechanical parameters dynamically to resolve the contradiction between insertion ease and secure retention.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

The solution effectively prevents tissue damage by maintaining the protective sleeve in place during bone recess insertion, while also simplifying and ensuring reliable handling of the target device.

Implementation Method 1

at least one locking means (40) comprising at least one elastically deflectable finger (50), which can be deflected axially and/or radially with respect to the second axis (X2)

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

The at least one elastic finger can come into operative contact with the protective sleeve (60) inserted into the guide opening (22), creating a frictional connection with the protective sleeve (60)

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Data Source

PatentEP4212110B1Aiming device
Publication Date: 2025.04.16 CREATEC GMBH & CO KG
  • EP4212110B1 patent drawingFigure 1a~1c
  • EP4212110B1 patent drawingFigure 2a~2c
  • EP4212110B1 patent drawingFigure 3a~3c

AI summary

The present invention relates to a targeting device (1) for forming an attachment of a prosthesis (8) with a bone attachment element (5) to a bone, comprising a holding means (15) for positioning the prosthesis (8) in a first axis (X1), a receptacle (20) forming a guide opening (22) which is oriented along a second axis (X2) and penetrates the targeting device and is configured to receive a protective sleeve, and a locking means (40) comprising at least one elastically deflectable finger (50) which can be deflected axially and/or radially with respect to the second axis (X2), wherein the first axis (X1) and the second axis (X2) intersect, with the at least one finger (50) projecting into the guide opening (22).