Bone Connecting Member Locating System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for determining the location of reference points in connecting members inserted into bone structures, such as metal pins, are inaccurate and invasive, relying on radioscopic systems that expose both the surgeon and patient to harmful radiation due to the two-dimensional representation of three-dimensional structures.
Innovation Solution
A locating system using a radioactive source embedded within the connecting member to emit ionizing radiation, which is detected externally, allowing for precise three-dimensional location of reference points without direct contact, reducing radiation exposure and improving accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a radioscopic system is used to determine reference points, then the location can be visualized, but the measurement precision is poor and harmful radiation exposure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the radioscopic imaging system (optical/electromagnetic field-based) with a mechanical localization system using a probe that physically contacts the bone surface to directly locate reference points through tactile feedback and coordinate measurement, eliminating the need for harmful X-ray radiation while improving measurement precision
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary probe device that contacts the bone surface at reference points and transmits location information to the control unit, serving as a mediator between the physical reference points and the digital representation, thereby achieving accurate localization without radiation exposure
2Measurement precision
If a radioscopic system is used to determine reference points, then the location can be visualized, but the operating time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary action by pre-defining reference points in the digital bone model before surgery, and during surgery directly locating them using the probe without requiring time-consuming radioscopic imaging and interpretation, thereby reducing operating time while maintaining precision
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the time-consuming radioscopic imaging process with a direct mechanical probing method that provides immediate tactile and digital feedback for reference point localization, significantly reducing the time required for accurate measurement
3Reliability
If the connecting member is inserted inside the medullary canal, then the bone fracture is immobilized, but the reference points become difficult to determine from outside
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a digital copy (virtual model) of the bone and connecting member with precisely located reference points before surgery. During surgery, the probe physically contacts the bone at these reference points, and the control unit matches the physical contacts with the digital model, making internal reference points externally detectable without compromising immobilization
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a digital model as an intermediary between the internal connecting member and external observation. The reference points are defined in the digital model and located physically by the probe, with the control unit bridging the gap between physical contact and virtual representation, thereby making internal reference points externally detectable
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 system enables precise, non-invasive determination of reference points in three-dimensional space, significantly reducing exposure to ionizing radiation and operating time, while enhancing surgical accuracy and safety.
Implementation Method 1
at least one radioactive source (6) insertable inside connecting member (3), at a respective reference point (2), to emit a beam of ionizing radiation outwards of bone structure (4), and therefore, of the human or animal body
Data Source
AI summary
A connecting member insertable, at a fracture, inside a bone structure of a human or animal body to immobilize at least two bone portions. The connecting member has at least one radioactive source located at a predetermined reference point.