Integrated Bone Tracking Installation Tool
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for installing tracking arrays on bones in computer-assisted surgical procedures are cumbersome, requiring multiple tools, increasing costs and surgical time, and often result in sub-optimal placement and movement issues, which necessitate re-registration of surgical plans.
Innovation Solution
An all-in-one installation tool with a body featuring guide holes for fixation elements, a holding mechanism, and a coupler for directly attaching a tracking member, along with a removable handle providing feedback on the final location, allowing for efficient and optimal placement of tracking arrays on bones.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple tools (alignment guide and bracket) are used to install the tracking array, then the tracking array can be installed on the bone, but the surgical time and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the alignment guide and bracket into a single integrated installation tool. The alignment guide features guide holes that directly receive fixation elements, eliminating the need for separate alignment guides and brackets. This integration reduces the number of tools required, decreases surgical time, and maintains reliable tracking array installation through the unified design that ensures proper positioning and fixation.
2Ease of manufacture
If conventional brackets are used with insufficient fixation mechanisms, then the bracket can be attached to fixation elements, but the bracket may move relative to the fixation elements or the tracking array may move relative to the bracket
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs curved or rounded features in the fixation mechanism design. The fixation elements feature curved surfaces that engage with corresponding curved features in the installation tool body, creating a stable interlocking relationship. This curvature-based engagement prevents relative movement between the bracket and fixation elements, while maintaining ease of attachment through the complementary shaped interfaces.
3Ease of operation
If the tracking array is installed at a location that does not interfere with bone removal or surgical device operation, then the surgical procedure can proceed, but the line-of-sight to optical detectors may be sub-optimal
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates adjustable or repositionable features in the installation tool that allow the tracking array to be positioned dynamically during installation. The tool includes mechanisms that enable the tracking array to be adjusted to optimal positions for optical detector line-of-sight while maintaining proper fixation on the bone. This dynamic adjustment capability ensures both surgical operability and tracking precision can be achieved simultaneously.
Data Source
AI summary
An installation tool for installing a tracking member on a substrate is provided that includes a body with at least one guide hole located at a first end of the body for guiding a fixation element into the substrate. A holding mechanism is provided for holding the body to the fixation element. A coupler located at an opposing end of the body is provided for coupling the tracking member to the body. A removable handle has an opening for receiving at least portion of the coupler inside the removable handle. A system is also provide that includes the installation tool and a tracking member.