Bone Anchoring Device with Interchangeable Closure Elements
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current bone anchoring devices require separate types or pre-assembly of devices for different closure mechanisms, which complicates their use during surgery and increases the need for multiple devices or pre-assembly steps.
Innovation Solution
A versatile bone anchoring device with a single receiving portion and pressure element that allows for either simultaneous locking of the head and rod using a single part closure element or separate locking using a two part closure element, eliminating the need for an outer nut or ring and preventing splaying of legs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate types of bone anchoring devices are used for different closure mechanisms, then the appropriate closure mechanism can be selected for each application, but the complexity of device selection and inventory management increases
Solution Approach 1:
The receiving portion is designed to accept both single part closure elements and two part closure elements through a universal interface. The U-shaped recess with legs and inner thread can accommodate different closure mechanisms, allowing one bone anchoring device type to serve multiple closure functions, thereby reducing device variety while maintaining adaptability
2Ease of operation
If pre-assembly of bone anchoring devices with closure elements is performed, then the correct configuration is ready for surgery, but additional pre-assembly steps and inventory of pre-assembled units are required
Solution Approach 1:
The bone anchoring device is designed to be self-configuring during surgery. The receiving portion with its U-shaped recess and inner thread automatically accommodates the appropriate closure element based on the surgical needs, eliminating the need for pre-assembly. The device serves itself by allowing intraoperative selection and attachment of closure elements
3Strength
If an outer nut or ring is used to prevent splaying of legs, then the structural integrity is improved, but the device size and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The outer nut or ring component is completely removed from the design. Instead of using a separate external element to prevent leg splaying, the receiving portion itself is designed with a U-shaped recess and legs that inherently maintain structural integrity. The inner thread within the U-shaped recess provides the necessary strength without requiring additional external fastening components
Data Source
AI summary
A bone anchoring device includes an anchoring element having a head, a receiving portion having a first region adjacent to a second end for receiving the head and a recess which is open towards a first end to form two free legs for receiving a rod. The anchoring device further includes a pressure element configured to couple to the head, a first closure element and a second closure element. The first closure element cooperates with the legs to simultaneously fix the rod in the recess and fix the head in the receiving portion, and the second closure element cooperates with the legs, the second closure element acts on the pressure element and on the rod to independently fix the head in the receiving portion and fix the rod in the recess. The first closure element and the second closure element are interchangeable.