External Fixation Frame Adjustment Tool with Identification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing external fixation systems for bone realignment and stabilization lack user-friendly tools and methods for patients to accurately follow correction plans without professional assistance, leading to potential misalignment and complications.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising an identification mechanism, a tool, and a processor that identifies adjustment elements, adjusts the external fixation frame according to a predetermined correction plan, and ensures precise rotation of screws based on received data and identification information.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If patients adjust external fixation frames without professional assistance, then independence and reduced medical visits are improved, but alignment precision and risk of secondary deformities deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
A mobile computing device serves as an intermediary between the correction plan and the patient's adjustment actions. The device receives identification data from adjustment elements, retrieves corresponding correction parameters, and guides the patient through precise adjustment procedures, ensuring medical accuracy while maintaining patient independence.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback by having the mobile device scan identification data from adjustment elements during the adjustment process. This feedback mechanism verifies that the correct elements are being adjusted and provides real-time guidance to ensure alignment precision matches the correction plan requirements.
2Measurement precision
If a comprehensive correction plan system is implemented, then alignment precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service by allowing patients to independently execute correction plans using their mobile devices. The mobile device automatically retrieves correction parameters, identifies adjustment elements through scanning, and guides patients through the adjustment process without requiring professional assistance, thereby reducing the need for frequent medical visits.
Solution Approach 2:
The mobile computing device performs multiple functions: storing correction plan data, receiving identification data from adjustment elements, retrieving corresponding correction parameters, and providing adjustment guidance. This multi-functionality consolidates what would otherwise require multiple separate systems into a single portable device.
3Measurement precision
If identification mechanisms are added to adjustment elements, then adjustment accuracy is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The identification data is extracted from the adjustment elements themselves and stored on the mobile computing device. By separating the identification function from the mechanical adjustment function, the system achieves high adjustment accuracy through precise element identification while keeping the manufacturing of adjustment elements relatively simple.
Data Source
AI summary
A tool for implementing a correction plan in an external fixation frame having a plurality of adjustment elements or screws, for example, generally includes a driver, a motor, a controller, and a processor. The driver is adapted to engage and rotate each of the screws. The motor is coupled the driver and adapted to rotate the driver. The controller is connected to the motor and configured to control operation of the motor. The processor adapted configured to: receive correction plan data; receive identification data including information for identifying at least one of the plurality of screws; determine movement of at least one of the plurality of the screws based on the correction plan data and the identification data; and send signals indicative of the determined movement to the controller in order to rotate at least one of the plurality of screws according to a predetermined correction plan.