Fixation Bolt With Integrated Wire Tensioning Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current external fixation devices for orthopedic procedures, such as circular fixators, require separate wire tensioners for applying tension to pins or wires, which can be cumbersome and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A wire tensioning fixation bolt with a built-in tensioning mechanism, comprising a first body with a threaded end and a second body with an exterior thread and interior passage, allows for direct attachment to a circular fixator, enabling tensioning of pins or wires without external tensioners through an advance nut that moves the wire locking device away from the first body.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If separate wire tensioners are used for applying tension to pins or wires in circular fixators, then the tensioning function is achieved, but the device complexity and procedural efficiency are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the wire tensioning function with the fixation bolt by integrating a tensioning mechanism (second body with exterior thread and advance nut) directly into the fixation device. This eliminates the need for separate wire tensioners, simplifying the overall device structure and improving ease of operation during the orthopedic procedure.
2Productivity
If separate wire tensioners are used, then tensioning capability is provided, but the procedural time and efficiency are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the tensioning mechanism with the fixation bolt, the patent enables tensioning to be performed during the same operational step as fixation, eliminating the need for separate tensioning operations. This integration directly reduces procedural time and improves overall efficiency in circular fixator applications.
3Ease of operation
If the advance nut is turned to move the wire locking device away from the first body, then the pin or wire is tensioned, but the structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical tensioning systems with a simplified threaded advance nut mechanism that directly translates rotational motion into linear displacement of the wire locking device. This substitution maintains ease of operation through familiar threading mechanics while reducing overall structural complexity compared to traditional separate tensioner devices.
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
This solution simplifies the tensioning process, providing precise and efficient wire tensioning directly on the circular fixator, reducing procedural complexity and enhancing orthopedic procedure outcomes like Charcot, medial column fusion, and arthritis treatment.
Implementation Method 1
An advance nut engages the exterior thread. The advance nut abuts the first body for moving the wire locking device away from the first body when the advance nut is turned, for tensioning the pin or wire.
Data Source
AI summary
A fixation device comprises a first body having a threaded end, a longitudinal axis, and a bore perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. A second body is received in the bore. The second body has an exterior thread and an interior passage for receiving a pin or wire. The second body has a wire locking device for retaining the pin or wire. An advance nut engages the exterior thread. The advance nut abuts the first body for moving the wire locking device away from the first body when the advance nut is turned, for tensioning the pin or wire.