Dynamic Strut Axial Adjustment for Orthopedic Fixators
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing external fixators lack sufficient adjustability in all planes and directions, limiting their ability to provide optimal stabilization and healing for orthopedic injuries.
Innovation Solution
A dynamic strut with a first and second sub-strut component allowing axial movement and dual universal ball-and-socket joints for universal connection to fixation constructs, enabling adjustment in all planes and degrees, and a C-clip mechanism for axial locking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional struts with limited adjustment mechanisms are used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability in all planes and directions is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The strut is divided into two sub-struts that can move axially relative to each other, with each sub-strut containing a ball-and-socket joint. This segmentation allows independent adjustment of each joint, enabling universal movement in all planes while keeping each individual joint mechanism relatively simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The strut incorporates dynamic adjustment capabilities through axial movement between sub-struts and rotational adjustment of ball-and-socket joints. The C-clip mechanism allows the strut to transition between locked and adjustable states, providing dynamic adaptability without requiring complex permanent adjustment mechanisms.
2Adaptability or versatility
If dual universal ball-and-socket joints with radial adjustment are implemented, then the universal movement capability is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to multiple set screws
Solution Approach 1:
The ball-and-socket joints are pre-configured with set screws that can be quickly engaged and disengaged. The C-clip mechanism is pre-positioned to allow rapid locking and unlocking of the axial movement, reducing the operational steps required for adjustment.
Solution Approach 2:
The design allows the operator to perform adjustments using simple manual operations on the set screws and C-clip without requiring additional tools or complex procedures. The self-contained nature of each joint allows independent adjustment without affecting other parts of the strut.
Data Source
AI summary
A dynamic strut for external fixation constructs has first and second sub-struts that are axially adjustable in length and rotational position relative to one another, with the first sub-strut supporting a first dual universal joint with a first attachment peg for connection to an external fixator, and the second sub-strut supporting a second dual universal joint with a second attachment peg for connection to an external fixator. The first and second dual universal joints each include first and second ball-and-socket joints, whereby the associated attachment peg is adjustable in orientation. Set screws fix orientation of the attachment peg relative to the first ball-and-socket joint and the housing. Angular orientation of the first dual universal joint is fixed while angular orientation of the second dual universal joint is adjustable. The second sub-strut supports an axially movable shaft that supports the second dual universal joint. An adjustor allows the first and second sub-struts to axially translate relative to each other to increase or decrease length.