Circular Fixator Rings With Recesses for Stable Wire Tensioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing circular fixators for bone fixation procedures face challenges in maintaining wire stability and ease of use, particularly due to slippage of fixation devices during tensioning and the need for complex assembly processes.
Innovation Solution
The circular fixator system incorporates rings with slots and recesses for secure attachment of fixation devices, including scallop-shaped recesses and posts to prevent slippage, and allows for pre-assembled components for quick and tool-free adjustment and positioning, along with leg positioners for stable limb support during procedures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional fixation devices are used without recesses, then the assembly process is simpler, but wire slippage occurs during tensioning compromising fixation stability
Solution Approach 1:
The fixation device incorporates scallop-shaped recesses at specific locations where wires are attached. These recesses provide localized friction and mechanical interlocking only at the wire attachment points, preventing slippage during tensioning without requiring complex modifications to the entire device structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The scallop-shaped recesses act as intermediary structures between the fixation device and the wires. They provide a mechanical interface that increases friction and prevents wire slippage, serving as a mediator that enhances wire stability without requiring direct complex engagement mechanisms.
2Productivity
If pre-assembled components are not used, then component manufacturing is simpler, but assembly time increases reducing surgical efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The fixation device is pre-assembled with scallop-shaped recesses and wire attachment components manufactured and positioned in advance. This preliminary preparation allows the device to be ready for immediate use during surgery, reducing assembly time and improving surgical efficiency without requiring complex intraoperative assembly procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple components including the fixation device body, scallop-shaped recesses, and wire attachment elements are merged into a single pre-assembled unit. This integration eliminates the need for separate assembly steps during surgery, allowing the surgeon to install the complete device in one action and improve procedural efficiency.
3Reliability
If complex assembly procedures are required, then fixation security can be enhanced, but the time required for setup increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fixation device is pre-configured with scallop-shaped recesses and wire attachment components in their final positions during manufacturing. This preliminary action ensures that when the device is installed during surgery, it provides maximum fixation security immediately without requiring time-consuming complex assembly procedures in the operating room.
Solution Approach 2:
The pre-assembled fixation device with integrated scallop-shaped recesses serves itself by providing built-in wire retention features that automatically engage wires upon installation. The device does not require additional complex assembly steps or auxiliary tools to achieve secure fixation, reducing setup time while maintaining high reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
A device includes a plurality of rings. Each ring has a first face, a second face, and at least one slot defined by first and second interior edges of the ring on opposing sides of the slot. The at least one slot penetrates from the first face to the second face. The first face of each ring has a first recess adjacent the slot on the first edge and a second recess adjacent the slot on the second edge. A plurality of posts join each one of the plurality of rings to an adjacent one of the plurality of rings.