External Fixation Clamp Assembly for Single-Step Rod Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current external fixation devices are cumbersome to lock in place, require multiple assistants, and are limited in their application to either the right or left side of joints, increasing surgical time and inventory needs.
Innovation Solution
A clamping system with a securing assembly that moves between positions to lock the clamps in place, preventing movement of connector rods, and includes a clamp connector that prevents rotation, allowing for adjustable alignment without the need for multiple assistants.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional clamps with rotating joints and nuts are used, then adjustability along one plane is achieved, but the locking process becomes cumbersome and requires multiple assistants
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp is divided into distinct functional segments: a clamp body for positioning, a securing assembly for locking, and a connector rod interface. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, simplifying the overall locking operation while maintaining adjustability capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The complex rotating joint and nut mechanism is extracted and replaced with a simpler securing assembly that uses a cam or lever action to lock the connector rod in place. This extraction removes the cumbersome multi-step locking process while preserving the essential adjustability function through alternative means.
2Adaptability or versatility
If hinged systems are designed for specific sides (right or left), then alignment with natural pivot axis is achieved, but inventory requirements and surgical complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The hinged system is designed with universal adaptability to function on both right and left sides of joints. The clamp and connector rod assembly can be oriented and positioned to accommodate either side, eliminating the need for separate right-sided and left-sided devices while maintaining proper alignment with the natural pivot axis through flexible positioning capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates dynamic positioning capabilities that allow the hinge to be oriented in different directions and angles during surgery. This dynamic adaptability enables a single universal device to replace multiple fixed-sided devices, reducing inventory requirements while maintaining the ability to align with the natural pivot axis regardless of which side of the joint is being treated.
3Manufacturing precision
If multiple assistants are used to lock clamps, then proper positioning is achieved, but surgical time and resource waste increase
Solution Approach 1:
The securing assembly is designed to be self-locking through cam or lever action that automatically secures the connector rod when positioned. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for multiple assistants to manually tighten nuts and secure the clamp, allowing a single surgeon to achieve precise positioning quickly without wasting surgical time on complex locking procedures.
Data Source
AI summary
A clamping system includes a first clamp body including a first jaw, a second jaw, and a first aperture configured to receive a bone pin, the first clamp body is configured to receive a first connector rod between the first jaw and the second jaw, a second clamp body coupled to the first clamp body and including a third jaw, a fourth jaw, and a second aperture configured to receive the bone pin, the second clamp body configured to receive a second connector rod between the third jaw and the fourth jaw, and a securing assembly movable between a first position and a second position, such that moving the securing assembly from the first position to the second position reduces a distance between the first jaw and the second and reduces a distance between the third jaw and the fourth jaw.