External Fixation Conversion Kit with Articulating Clamps

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Solution Overview

Problem

Hexapod external fixation systems face challenges in providing clear visualization of patient anatomy due to strut obstruction, require tedious strut changes for varying alignment needs, and lack efficient conversion to static frames or dynamization, leading to patient discomfort and compromised access.

Innovation Solution

A kit comprising articulating clamps and rods that allow conversion of hexapod systems to static frames, enabling easy strut removal for improved visualization and access, and facilitating dynamization through articulating connections and dynamization washers.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If struts are kept in place in hexapod external fixation system, then bone alignment stability is maintained, but visualization of patient anatomy is obscured

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvebone alignment stabilityVSAvoidvisualization of patient anatomy

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDifficulty of detecting and measuring

Solution Approach 1:

The external fixation system is divided into modular components (rings, struts, clamps) that can be independently adjusted or removed. This segmentation allows selective removal of struts to improve visualization while maintaining ring stability through alternative connections.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system transitions from a static hexapod configuration to a dynamic convertible configuration. The articulating clamps enable the frame to adapt between hexapod and static frame modes, allowing optimization between stability and visualization based on treatment phase.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Difficulty of detecting and measuring

If struts are removed to improve visualization, then access to anatomy is improved, but frame stability is compromised

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvevisualization of patient anatomyVSAvoidframe stability

Core Design Contradiction:

Difficulty of detecting and measuringVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The articulating clamps provide dynamic adaptability, allowing the frame to maintain stability through alternative load paths when struts are removed. The clamps can articulate to distribute forces differently, compensating for reduced strut support.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The articulating clamps serve multiple functions: they can replace strut connections, provide alternative stabilization points, and enable conversion between hexapod and static frame configurations. This multi-functionality ensures stability is maintained through various mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Adaptability or versatility

If hexapod system is converted to static frame, then flexibility in frame construction is increased, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveflexibility in frame constructionVSAvoidconversion kit components

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The articulating clamps are designed as universal connectors that work in both hexapod and static frame configurations. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate specialized components, thereby reducing overall complexity despite increased versatility.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The conversion capability is segmented into discrete, standardized components (articulating clamps, rods, connectors) that can be independently selected and assembled. This modular segmentation simplifies the conversion process and reduces complexity compared to integrated conversion mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

4Manufacturing precision

If strut length is frequently adjusted for alignment, then bone alignment precision is improved, but treatment time increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvebone alignment precisionVSAvoidtreatment time

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system allows preliminary positioning and alignment adjustments to be made during initial setup, reducing the need for frequent subsequent adjustments. The articulating clamps enable efficient repositioning if adjustments are needed, minimizing treatment disruption.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The articulating clamps provide dynamic adjustment capability that allows quick reconfiguration of the frame geometry. This reduces the time required for alignment adjustments compared to fixed Strut connections, thereby reducing treatment time while maintaining precision.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentEP4135606B1Conversion kit for an external fixation system

Publication Date: 2025.10.22 SMITH & NEPHEW INC

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AI summary

A kit and corresponding methods of use are disclosed. In use, the kit includes a plurality of articulating clamps for coupling to one of the rings of an external fixation system. In use, the clamps include a body portion having a stem arranged and configured to be received within an opening formed in one of the rings. The clamp further including a clamp assembly for engaging a rod spanning the first and second rings. Thus arranged, the clamp may be directly coupled to one of the rings and the rod, the clamp enabling the position of the ring to be adjusted relative to the rod. As such, the clamps may enable, inter alia, a hexapod external fixation system to be converted into a static frame, a static frame to be constructed in a more efficient manner, and/or creation of an enlarged visualization or working window.