Bone Retaining Mechanism Prevents Fastener Backing Out
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for affixing a stratum to bone lack effective mechanisms to prevent fasteners from backing out inadvertently after insertion, leading to instability and potential failure in applications such as spinal plate connections.
Innovation Solution
A retaining mechanism comprising a stratum with holes, a retaining element that can move between positions to allow fastener insertion and subsequent overlap to secure the fastener, and a spring element to maintain the retaining element in a position that prevents fastener backing out, ensuring stable fixation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a simple hole is provided in the stratum for fastener insertion, then the structure remains simple and easy to manufacture, but the fastener can inadvertently back out after insertion
Solution Approach 1:
The retaining element is divided into multiple functional portions: a blocking portion that prevents fastener backing out, a spring element that maintains the blocking portion in position, and a engagement portion that connects to the stratum. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function while collectively solving the fastener retention problem.
Solution Approach 2:
The blocking portion acts as an intermediary element between the fastener head and the stratum hole. It physically blocks the fastener from backing out while allowing the fastener to be inserted through the hole, thus mediating the interaction between these two components.
2Reliability
If the retaining element is made movable between positions to allow fastener insertion and securement, then fastener retention is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The retaining element is designed to be movable between a first position (allowing fastener insertion) and a second position (blocking fastener backing out). This dynamic positioning capability allows the same component to serve multiple functions at different stages of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring element automatically maintains the blocking portion in the second position without requiring external actuation. The system uses the insertion force of the fastener itself to transition to the blocked state, making the retaining mechanism self-regulating.
3Reliability
If the spring element is added to maintain the retaining element position, then fastener backing out is prevented, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The spring element is designed to automatically maintain the blocking portion in the second position through its elastic properties. The spring self-regulates the blocking force without requiring external control mechanisms, simplifying the overall assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring element utilizes elastic deformation as a parameter change mechanism. By exploiting the elastic properties of the spring material, the system achieves automatic positioning and blocking without complex mechanical actuators or control systems.
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 fastener backing out, providing stable and secure affixation of the stratum to bone, enhancing the durability and reliability of bone fixation systems like spinal plates.
Implementation Method 1
The spring element is configured to engage the stratum and configured to engage the retaining element such that the spring element helps maintain the retaining element in its second position
Data Source
AI summary
A retaining mechanism for use in affixing a stratum to bone is disclosed. The retaining mechanism comprises a stratum, a retaining element and a spring element. The stratum comprising a first surface, a second surface, and a hole extending between the first surface and the second surface, wherein the second surface is configured to engage at least a portion of the bone. The retaining element comprises a first position that permits a fastener to be passed through the hole, and a second position that at least partially overlaps the hole. The spring element is configured to engage the stratum and configured to engage the retaining element such that the spring element helps maintain the retaining element in its second position so as to help prevent inadvertent backing out of the fastener after the fastener has been fully inserted into the hole.