Dual Hook Medical Implant Retention Mechanism

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing object holding devices for medical implants lack reliable retention mechanisms that prevent accidental release, especially under external loading or voluntary operator action.

Innovation Solution

A device featuring two hook systems with opposing return forces that securely hold the object, allowing for easy release by moving the hooks into a releasing position, either through counter-force application or pivoting, ensuring the object remains coupled until intentional release.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a single hook system is used to hold the object, then the device complexity is reduced, but the reliability of holding the object is insufficient and accidental release may occur

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveholding reliabilityVSAvoidhook system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The holding device is divided into two independent hook systems that operate separately but work together to hold the object. Each hook system can be independently actuated by the operator, allowing one system to fail or be released while the other maintains holding. This segmentation increases reliability without requiring a single complex locking mechanism.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The hook systems are pre-configured in a closed, ready-to-hold position before the object is inserted. The springs are pre-compressed to provide immediate holding force upon object insertion, ensuring the object is securely captured without requiring additional activation steps. This preliminary preparation ensures reliable holding from the moment of engagement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Reliability

If strong return forces are applied to keep the object held, then the holding reliability is improved, but the difficulty of intentional release increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveholding reliabilityVSAvoidrelease ease
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The hook systems incorporate springs that provide dynamic return forces to maintain the closed holding position. These springs continuously exert force to keep the hooks engaged with the object, ensuring reliable holding without requiring active power sources. The dynamic nature of the spring force allows easy release when the operator applies sufficient counter-force.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The springs act as intermediaries between the operator's manual input and the hook systems. When the operator presses the hook systems together, the springs store energy and mediate the transition between held and released states. This intermediary mechanism allows strong holding forces during normal operation while enabling easy release through simple manual pressure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Ease of operation

If the hook systems are made movable by bending or elastic deformation, then the ease of operation for release is improved, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverelease easeVSAvoidhook system fabrication precision
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The hook systems utilize elastic deformation of metal components to achieve movement between closed and open positions. The hooks are designed as flexible elements that can bend elastically under operator pressure, allowing smooth transitions between states without rigid joints or complex mechanisms. This flexibility simplifies the overall mechanism while maintaining ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

The device effectively maintains the object's secure hold without external loading and allows for easy release, reducing the risk of accidental detachment and facilitating safe handling of medical implants.

Implementation Method 1

said or each arm is movable, preferably by bending or elastic deformation, so as to allow the corresponding hook system to be moved with respect to the other hook system

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElastic deformation: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS11931190B2Device for holding and releasing an object, corresponding assembly and release method
Publication Date: 2024.03.19 SELENIUM MEDICAL
  • US11931190B2 patent drawing
  • US11931190B2 patent drawing
  • US11931190B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A device for holding and releasing an object (2), such as a medical implant, is proposed. The device comprises two hook systems (11, 12) to which said object (2) is able to be coupled so as to allow said hook systems (11, 12) to jointly hold said object (2). Said hook systems (11, 12) are configured such that, in the state in which said object (2) is coupled to said hook systems (11, 12), at least one of the hook systems (11, 12) is subjected to a return force (F11, F12) that makes it possible to keep the object (2) coupled to said hook systems (11, 12). Also proposed are a corresponding assembly and a corresponding releasing method.