Digital Bone Depth Gauge With Probe for Accurate Screw Sizing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current depth gauges for measuring bone hole depth are inaccurate due to reflective surfaces making markings difficult to read, require precise alignment, and can become unsecured during measurement, leading to potential loss of measurement and increased surgical time.
Innovation Solution
A medical device combining a bone probe with a flexible, tactile-sensitive tip for examining hole integrity and a digital depth gauge that provides electronic measurements, allowing for accurate and secure depth determination without manual interpretation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a traditional depth gauge with reflective markings is used, then the measurement can be obtained, but the markings are difficult to read due to reflective surfaces and require precise alignment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional optical/mechanical depth gauge markings system with an electronic sensor system. The sensor detects the position of the probe tip and displays the measurement digitally, eliminating the need for reflective markings and precise visual alignment. This substitution of mechanical/optical measurement with electronic sensing directly resolves the reading difficulty and alignment requirements while maintaining measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes visual display elements (such as LED indicators or digital display colors) to indicate depth measurements and probe positions. The color-coded visual feedback system provides intuitive information about measurement status and depth values, making the readings easily distinguishable without requiring precise alignment with reflective markings.
2Measurement precision
If a traditional depth gauge is used, then depth measurement is provided, but the gauge can become unsecured during measurement leading to potential loss of measurement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates electronic sensors that continuously monitor the probe position and provide real-time feedback through digital display. This feedback mechanism ensures that the measurement data is captured and displayed immediately, preventing loss of measurement information even if the probe becomes dislodged. The electronic system maintains reliable measurement recording unlike mechanical gauges that require continuous visual monitoring.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical engagement system (where the gauge must remain physically secured to the probe) with an electronic sensing system. The electronic sensor can detect probe position independently of mechanical connection stability, and the digital display preserves measurement data even if the physical connection is disturbed, thereby improving measurement reliability and security.
3Measurement precision
If a traditional depth gauge with manual interpretation is used, then depth measurement is obtained, but it increases surgical time and risk of incorrect screw selection
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual interpretation of depth gauge markings with automated electronic sensing and digital display. The sensor automatically detects probe position and the display immediately shows the depth measurement, eliminating the need for surgical staff to manually read and interpret markings. This automation significantly reduces measurement time and eliminates human error in reading, thereby improving surgical efficiency and reducing the risk of incorrect screw selection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a digital copy of the physical measurement process. Instead of manually interpreting physical markings, the electronic sensor creates a digital representation of the probe position that is immediately displayed. This digital copy can be easily read and recorded without requiring manual intervention, speeding up the measurement process and improving accuracy in determining appropriate screw length.
Data Source
AI summary
A device configured to provide a faster and more accurate measurement of depths of holes for placement of bone screws and fastener for bone implant fixation procedures. The device includes a combination of a bone probe for physical examination of a hole drilled in a bone and a depth gauge member for determining a depth of the hole and providing digital measurement of the depth.