External Fixator Clamp with Ratchet for Rapid Fracture Stabilization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current external fixators used for temporary stabilization of fractures are often bulky and time-consuming to assemble, necessitating a need for lightweight and quick-assembly solutions.
Innovation Solution
The development of an external fixator system featuring a plurality of clamp assemblies that can rotate relative to each other, with a ratchet assembly and biasing members to facilitate rapid assembly and secure locking, allowing for quick stabilization of fractures using pins and rods.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional external fixators are used for temporary stabilization, then fracture stabilization is achieved, but the device becomes bulky and assembly becomes time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp assembly incorporates a ratchet mechanism nested within the clamp structure, where the ratchet teeth are integrated into the clamp body. This nesting reduces the overall device bulk while maintaining both the stabilization function and the quick-release capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The external fixator is divided into modular components: separate clamp assemblies that can be independently adjusted, a distinct ratchet mechanism, and interchangeable pins and rods. This segmentation allows for streamlined individual components rather than one bulky integrated structure.
2Reliability
If traditional external fixators are used for temporary stabilization, then fracture stabilization is achieved, but assembly becomes time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The ratchet mechanism is pre-configured within the clamp assembly with teeth and engaging surfaces prepared in advance. This preliminary arrangement allows the operator to quickly engage or release the clamp by simply rotating it, without needing to perform complex assembly steps during the procedure.
Solution Approach 2:
The ratchet mechanism provides self-locking capability where the teeth automatically engage to maintain clamp pressure on the pin. This self-service feature eliminates the need for continuous adjustment or additional locking steps, reducing assembly time while ensuring reliable stabilization.
3Stability of the object's composition
If clamp assemblies are fixed in position, then stabilization is secure, but adjustment and positioning become difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp assembly transitions from a static fixed position to a dynamic adjustable position through the ratchet mechanism. The operator can easily rotate the clamp to adjust positioning, and the ratchet teeth provide incremental stopping points that maintain stability once the desired position is reached.
Solution Approach 2:
The ratchet mechanism allows discrete angular position changes of the clamp assembly around the pin. By rotating the clamp in incremental steps defined by the ratchet teeth, the operator can precisely adjust the clamp orientation while maintaining secure engagement at each position.
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
Enables rapid and secure stabilization of fractures with reduced assembly time and improved ease of use, addressing the bulkiness and time-consuming nature of existing external fixators.
Implementation Method 1
A biasing member is disposed between adjacent of the plurality of clamp assemblies
Implementation Method 2
The ratchet assembly comprises a ratcheting buttress having a radially extending buttress flange and a hole extending through the flange. The hole is sized to allow the shaft to extend therethrough. A plurality of fingers extends proximally around the hole. Each of the plurality fingers has a plurality of internal ratchet teeth adapted to engage the least one external thread on the proximal end on the shaft.
Data Source
AI summary
External fixator assemblies, systems, and methods thereof. An external fixator system may include a plurality of fixator assemblies configured to connect a plurality of pins, for example, positioned on opposite sides of a fractured bone, with one more rods. The fixator assemblies may include a plurality of clamp assemblies which are configured to rotate relative to one another when the fixator assembly is in an unlocked position.