Brachytherapy Applicator Fixation Element With Tool-Free Cam Lock
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current brachytherapy fixation elements are cumbersome to assemble and disassemble, require additional tools, and are not MR-compatible, leading to prolonged treatment time and discomfort for patients.
Innovation Solution
A fixation element for brachytherapy applicators comprising a first component with a camming portion and lever portion, and a second component with a securement portion, allowing for easy assembly and disassembly without tools, and made from MR-compatible materials.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If current fixation elements are assembled using multiple metal components and additional tooling, then the fixation element can securely hold the applicator, but the assembly and disassembly process becomes time-consuming and cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The fixation element is divided into two main components: a clamp body and a camming mechanism. This segmentation allows the camming mechanism to be independently actuated to secure or release the applicator, enabling quick one-handed operation without requiring disassembly of the entire fixation element.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention employs a dynamic camming mechanism that transitions between locked and released positions. The camming surface converts rotational motion of the camming mechanism into linear motion that adjusts the gripping force on the applicator, allowing rapid transition between secured and released states without time-consuming manual adjustments.
2Stability of the object's composition
If current fixation elements are rigidly fixed by being glued or assembled with screws, then the components remain stable, but the assembly process requires at least two hands and additional tooling
Solution Approach 1:
The camming mechanism is designed to be self-securing through its geometric configuration. As the camming mechanism rotates into the locked position, the camming surface automatically engages with the clamp body, creating a self-locking action that secures the applicator without requiring additional tools or two-handed operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces traditional mechanical fastening methods (screws, glue) with a camming mechanism that uses geometric locking. The camming surface and corresponding groove create a mechanical interlock through shape complementarity, eliminating the need for threaded fasteners or adhesive bonding.
3Strength
If current fixation elements are made with metal components, then the structural strength is sufficient, but the fixation elements become unsuitable for use with magnetic resonance equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the material parameter from ferromagnetic metal to non-ferromagnetic materials (such as medical-grade polymers or titanium). This material substitution maintains the structural strength and mechanical properties of the fixation element while eliminating magnetic interference, enabling compatibility with MRI equipment for treatment monitoring and imaging.
4Reliability
If current fixation elements require assembly and disassembly with tools, then the securement can be reliably achieved, but the process is uncomfortable for the patient and prolongs treatment
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the tooling requirement from the fixation process by designing a tool-free camming mechanism. The camming mechanism can be actuated directly by hand, eliminating the need for screwdrivers or other external tools, thereby reducing treatment time and improving patient comfort while maintaining secure fixation.
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
Facilitates quick and comfortable setup and teardown of brachytherapy applicators, reducing patient discomfort and enabling use with MRI equipment.
Implementation Method 1
a first component comprising a camming portion and a lever portion; and a second component comprising a securement portion forming an opening for receiving the applicator, the securement portion comprising an abutment portion, and a first component receiving portion. In a first position, the first component is received in the first component receiving portion. The fixation element is configured to transition from the first position to a second position as the lever portion is actuated, the actuation of the lever portion causing the camming portion to exert a force against the abutment portion.
Implementation Method 2
the actuation of the lever portion causing the camming portion to exert a force against the abutment portion. As the force is exerted against the abutment portion, the opening formed by the securement portion constricts.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein is a fixation element for an applicator for use in brachytherapy. The fixation element comprises a first component comprising a camming portion and a lever portion; and a second component comprising a securement portion forming an opening for receiving the applicator. The securement portion comprises an abutment portion, and a first component receiving portion. Wherein, in a first position, the first component is received in the first component receiving portion, and wherein the fixation element is configured to transition from the first position to a second position as the lever portion is actuated. The actuation of the lever portion causing the camming portion to exert a force against the abutment portion, and as the force is exerted against the abutment portion, the opening formed by the securement portion constricts.