Collapsible Orthopedic Fixator with Movable Struts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing external orthopedic fixation systems are large and unwieldy, making them difficult to transport, store, and adjust without removing them from the patient's limb, necessitating a collapsible design for easier fitting and adjustment.
Innovation Solution
A collapsible fixator system comprising a first and second frame member with struts that can be releasably connected in a collapsed position and fixedly positioned perpendicular to the frame members in an erect position, allowing for easy assembly and adjustment without removing the system from the patient's limb.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the fixator system is designed with rigid fixed structure, then the structural strength and stability are improved, but the ease of transport and storage deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The fixator system incorporates movable struts with adjustable connectors that allow the structure to transition between rigid and collapsed states. The struts can be repositioned along the frame members and locked at different angles, providing both structural integrity when needed and compact configuration for transport.
Solution Approach 2:
The fixator system is divided into modular components including frame members, struts, and connectors. Each component can be independently adjusted or repositioned, allowing the overall structure to be collapsed into a compact form for transport while maintaining the ability to reconstruct the rigid structure for treatment.
2Stability of the object's composition
If the fixator system is designed with fixed structure, then the stability during treatment is improved, but the ease of adjustment deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The struts are designed with adjustable connectors that allow movement along the frame members during treatment. The connectors can be easily repositioned and locked at new positions, enabling adjustment of the fixator structure without removing it from the patient, while maintaining stability once adjusted.
3Ease of operation
If the fixator system uses collapsible design, then the ease of transport and storage is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The collapsible functionality is achieved through segmented modular components with standardized connectors. Each strut and frame member is a discrete unit with simple connection interfaces, reducing the overall system complexity despite the collapsible capability.
Data Source
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AI summary
A collapsible fixator system comprising a first frame member and a second frame member and at least one strut. Each frame member comprises an upper surface, a lower surface, and a plurality of apertures extending from the upper surface to the lower surface. Each of the at least one struts comprises first and second strut connectors, such that the first and the second strut connectors are operable to releasably connect the strut to the first frame member and the second frame member. When the first and second strut connectors are in a first, collapsed position, the strut is releasably positioned substantially parallel to the upper and lower surfaces of the first and second frame members. When the first and second strut connectors are in a second, erect position, the strut may be fixedly positionedsuch that the first and second frame members are spaced apart from one another.