Bolt With Counter Torque Opening for External Fixator Wire
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current external fixator systems require multiple tools and assistance to securely fix wires to the frame, leading to complexity and potential misalignment issues during the fixation process.
Innovation Solution
A bolt with a threaded section, head section, and clamping elements, along with a counter torque tool that engages with the bolt to provide counter torque, allowing for wire clamping without additional tools and assistance, and a washer design that enhances wire retention between the bolt and washer surfaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple tools (wire tensioner and two wrenches) are used to fix the wire, then the wire can be securely fastened, but the procedure becomes complicated and requires at least two persons
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the functions of the wire tensioner and counter-torque tool into a single integrated tool. The counter-torque opening is positioned to receive the wire tensioner, allowing one tool to simultaneously provide both tensioning and counter-torque functions, thereby reducing the total number of tools from three to two.
Solution Approach 2:
The counter-torque tool is designed with multi-functionality by incorporating a counter-torque opening that can receive the wire tensioner. This allows the same tool to serve dual purposes: providing counter-torque during bolt tightening and tensioning the wire, eliminating the need for separate dedicated tools.
2Reliability
If multiple tools are used to tighten the bolt and nut, then the wire can be fixed securely, but the surgical procedure becomes more time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the counter-torque function and wire tensioning function into a single integrated tool, the surgical procedure requires fewer tool changes and fewer steps. The surgeon can tension the wire and provide counter-torque simultaneously, reducing the overall time needed for the fixation procedure.
3Ease of operation
If the bolt is tightened without counter-torque, then the procedure is simpler, but the wire loses alignment due to rotation of the bolt opening
Solution Approach 1:
The counter-torque opening is designed in advance to receive the wire tensioner, which applies counter-torque to the bolt during tightening. This preliminary counter-action prevents the bolt opening from rotating and maintains wire alignment, solving the problem of misalignment that would otherwise occur during the tightening process.
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
Enables single-person operation to tension and fix wires securely to external fixator elements, reducing the risk of misalignment and simplifying the fixation process.
Implementation Method 1
a bolt (1) having a shaft which comprises a threaded section (10)
Implementation Method 2
a counter torque tool (2) to provide a counter torque while fastening the wire (4) with the bolt (1) and the nut (7) to the surface (31)
Implementation Method 3
the at least one clamping element (12, 14) accommodates and clamps a wire (4) to the surface (31) with a clamping force
Data Source
AI summary
A system for fixing a wire to a surface of an external fixator having a wire adapted to extend through bony structure fastened with respect to the surface. A bolt having a shaft which comprises a threaded section, a head section and at least one clamping element is provided wherein the bolt is adapted to extend through an opening in the external fixation element with a nut, and clamps the wire to the surface. A counter torque tool is used to provide a counter torque while fastening the wire with the bolt and the nut. The bolt comprises a counter torque opening and wherein the counter torque tool comprises a section which is adapted to engage into the counter torque opening of the bolt to apply the counter torque.