Hip Socket Inlay Instrument with Elastic Vacuum Suction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing joint prosthesis setting instruments are complex to handle, require two-handed operation, and have unreliable suction mechanisms, leading to a risk of the joint component accidentally falling off during use.
Innovation Solution
A setting instrument with a soft-elastic molded part and a tension element that creates increased negative pressure for secure attachment to the joint surface, allowing one-handed operation and high functional reliability, featuring a tension screw or external suction device for deformation and enhanced sealing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a suction cup is used as the suction element, then the instrument can achieve simple structure and ease of manufacture, but the reliability of suction attachment deteriorates due to accidental release of negative pressure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical state and geometric parameters of the suction element by using a soft, elastic molded part that can be deformed. This deformation capability allows the suction element to adapt to the articular surface and maintain reliable attachment. The tension element modifies the shape and contact pressure parameters dynamically to enhance suction reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines a soft, elastic molded part (likely silicone or similar elastomer) with a rigid tension element (screw mechanism). This composite structure integrates the sealing and adaptive properties of elastic materials with the mechanical advantage and precision control of rigid threaded fastening, achieving both reliability and controllability.
2Ease of operation
If the actuating element for the pressure relief valve projects axially backward beyond the handle surface, then the valve is easily accessible for operation, but the risk of accidental activation increases when gripping the instrument
Solution Approach 1:
The patent relocates the actuating element from an axial projection (one-dimensional extension along the handle axis) to a lateral or integrated positioning on the handle surface. This dimensional change allows the valve to remain accessible while preventing accidental activation during normal gripping, as the actuator is positioned in a location that requires intentional operation rather than incidental contact.
3Reliability
If a soft, elastic molded part is used to create vacuum, then the seal to the articular surface is improved, but additional deformation mechanism is required to intensify the negative pressure
Solution Approach 1:
The soft, elastic molded part performs dual functions: it creates the initial seal through its compliance and shape conformity to the articular surface, and it can be deformed by the simple tension element to intensify the vacuum. The material itself serves the sealing function while the mechanical tensioning system provides the deformation capability, with each component performing its designated role efficiently.
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 instrument achieves secure attachment and precise navigation of joint components, suitable for intraoperative handling, with a high degree of reliability and stability, preventing accidental detachment and enabling precise implant placement.
Implementation Method 1
a tension element assigned to the soft, elastic molded part, which is designed to deform the soft, elastic molded part in such a way that, when it comes into contact with the articular surface, an increased negative pressure is created between the articular surface and the molded part
Implementation Method 2
a soft, elastic molded part adapted to the articular surface... designed to deform the soft, elastic molded part
Implementation Method 3
The tension element is intended to deform the molded part into itself at the point where it engages. This effectively draws the instrument into the implant
Implementation Method 4
Simultaneously, the area around the point of application of the traction element undergoes radial expansion, resulting in an increased seal between the soft elastic molded part and the articulating surface
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a hip or shoulder socket inlay setting instrument (10) comprising a grip section (11) and a suction element (12) that can be laid against the joint surface in a sealing fashion. The suction element (12) comprises a soft flexible molded part (13) tailored to the joint surface, said molded part is capable of being deformed using a pulling element (14) such that an (elevated) vacuum arises between the soft flexible molded part (13) and the joint surface upon abutment thereagainst.