Craniofacial External Distractor for Precise Multi-Axis Bone Movement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing craniofacial distraction devices lack precision and stability in multidimensional bone distraction, leading to potential complications and the need for subsequent corrective procedures.
Innovation Solution
An external distraction apparatus with a stationary member and laterally disposed distractors, featuring moveable units that can be manually or automatically displaced along multiple axes, including a motor-driven system with sensors for precise control and a direct coupling mechanism to transcutaneous rods, ensuring accurate distraction vectors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If manual adjustment mechanisms are used in craniofacial distraction devices, then device complexity is reduced, but manufacturing precision and reliability of bone movement deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical adjustment mechanisms with an automated motor-driven system. The motor (258) connects through a drive mechanism (254, 264) to moveable units (3, 4, 5), enabling precise control of bone distraction without manual intervention. This substitution of manual mechanical systems with automated electromechanical systems resolves the contradiction by achieving high precision movement while maintaining manageable device complexity through integrated automation.
2Manufacturing precision
If automated motor-driven distraction is implemented, then manufacturing precision and reliability improve, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The motor-driven system serves multiple functions: it controls the movement of moveable units (3, 4, 5), applies controlled distraction forces to bone, and can be programmed for precise multi-dimensional movement. By consolidating these functions into a single automated system rather than separate manual mechanisms, the patent achieves high precision while managing overall device complexity through functional integration.
3Manufacturing precision
If multi-dimensional moveable units are added for precise bone movement, then manufacturing precision improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the distraction system into discrete moveable units (3, 4, 5), each capable of independent movement along specific axes. This segmentation allows precise control of bone movement in multiple dimensions while maintaining manageable complexity through modular design. Each moveable unit can be controlled independently or in coordination, enabling complex trajectories through simpler individual components.
4Productivity
If automated control systems are implemented, then productivity and reliability improve, but ease of operation deteriorates due to technical complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The automated motor-driven system performs the distraction function autonomously without requiring continuous manual operation. The motor (258) and drive mechanism (254, 264) self-regulate the movement of bone through programmed sequences, improving productivity and reliability while reducing the operational burden on users. The system serves itself by automatically controlling the distraction process without manual intervention.
Data Source
AI summary
An external distraction apparatus for performing a craniofacial distraction is disclosed. The external distraction apparatus may comprise a stationary member. The stationary member may be configured to be affixed to a head of a patient. The external distraction apparatus may also comprise laterally disposed distractors. The laterally disposed distractors may extend inferiorly from the stationary member and be moveable relative to the stationary member.