Double Action External Fixation Clamp with Lateral Translation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing external fixation systems lack versatility in capturing and stabilizing various orthopedic elements like bars, rods, and pins, as they often require complex assembly and may not accommodate infinite fracture patterns effectively.
Innovation Solution
The external fixation component features a capture member with opposing grooves on either side, allowing for relative lateral translation between the base and head, enabling secure capture of elements from a direction perpendicular to their longitudinal axis, using springs for secure engagement and adjustment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single groove capture member is used, then the structure is simple, but the versatility in capturing different orthopedic elements is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The capture member is divided into a base portion and a head portion that can move relative to each other. The head portion can be laterally translated between at least two positions, allowing the same capture member to capture different orthopedic elements (such as pins, rods, or wires) by adjusting the head position to engage different grooves or capture configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The capture member incorporates dynamic movement capability where the head portion can laterally translate relative to the base portion. This dynamic adjustment allows the capture member to adapt its configuration for capturing various orthopedic elements with different sizes and shapes, enhancing versatility without requiring multiple fixed capture members.
2Adaptability or versatility
If complex assembly is required to accommodate infinite fracture patterns, then the fixation system can handle diverse fracture types, but the assembly time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The capture member is designed as a universal component that can capture multiple types of orthopedic elements (pins, rods, wires) through lateral translation of the head portion. This multi-functionality allows a single capture member design to handle diverse fracture patterns and fixation requirements, reducing the need for multiple specialized components and thereby reducing assembly time.
Solution Approach 2:
The capture member is pre-configured with the capability to adjust between different capture positions. The head portion can be laterally translated to predetermined positions that correspond to different orthopedic element types, allowing for quick selection and engagement without complex assembly procedures during surgery.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the head and base are coupled for rigid fixation, then the structural stability is high, but the ability to capture elements from multiple directions is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling between the head portion and base portion allows controlled lateral translation while maintaining structural stability. The head can move laterally to capture elements from different directions, and once positioned, the coupling maintains stable fixation of the captured element, achieving both adaptability and stability.
Data Source
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AI summary
An external fixation component includes a capture member defining opposing grooves on opposite lateral sides of the capture member for capture of an element of an orthopedic fixation system. The capture member includes a base and a head coupled to the base to define a component axis that extends through the base and through the head. The base and the head are coupled for relative lateral translation in opposing directions such that the element can be captured by the capture member in either of the opposing grooves.