Fixator Rod Coupler Assembly for Precise Bone Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current external fixators lack precision in movement and adjustment, leading to potential malunions or non-unions due to inadequate stability and granularity in positioning fractured/deformed bones.
Innovation Solution
A fixator rod coupler assembly with a central shaft, bottom and top angular adjustments, a spring, and a tensioner assembly that allows for precise, granular adjustments and maintains stability through a combination of tensioned, partially tensioned, and un-tensioned positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If current external fixator designs are used, then the device can provide basic stabilization, but the precision and granularity of adjustments are insufficient leading to potential malunions or non-unions
Solution Approach 1:
The fixator incorporates dynamic adjustment mechanisms including threaded rods with nuts that allow continuous angular adjustment of coupling elements. The coupling element can be rotated along the rod to different angular positions, and the position is locked using a nut and washer assembly. This dynamic adjustability enables precise control over bone fragment positioning while maintaining stability during healing.
Solution Approach 2:
The device allows for granular parameter changes through threaded fastening mechanisms. The threaded rod and nut assembly provides fine-adjustment capability where each rotation of the nut moves the coupling element by a precise increment. This enables the practitioner to make small, controlled adjustments to the angular position and spacing of bone fragments, achieving the required positioning precision for reliable healing.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the fixator allows for movement and adjustment, then anatomical realignment can be achieved, but stability may be compromised during the healing process
Solution Approach 1:
The fixator employs a dynamic locking mechanism where the coupling element can be freely rotated during adjustment, then locked in place using a nut and washer assembly. The threaded rod provides continuous adjustment capability, while the nut-washer lock provides static stability once positioned. This transition from dynamic to static state allows both adjustability and stability requirements to be met.
Solution Approach 2:
The device incorporates pre-designed adjustment mechanisms that are prepared in advance for easy configuration. The threaded rod and nut assembly is pre-installed, allowing the practitioner to make adjustments by simply rotating the nut along the threaded rod. The coupling element geometry is pre-configured to engage with the rod and lock mechanisms, enabling straightforward adjustment without complex assembly steps during the procedure.
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 accurate and stable positioning of fractured/deformed bones, enhancing healing outcomes by allowing controlled adjustments and reducing complications.
Implementation Method 1
a spring centered about the shaft that is configured and dimensioned to compress between the bottom angular adjustment and the top angular adjustment
Data Source
AI summary
A fixator rod coupler assembly designed to enable orthopedic practitioners to set, alter, and maintain the alignment of fractured or deformed bones with precision. The assembly incorporates a novel arrangement of a shaft, angular adjustments, arms, a spring and more, facilitating extensive range of motion, ensuring stability once positioned, and allowing for minuscule adjustments. Concerning the assembly itself, it can comprise a central shaft surrounded by top and bottom angular adjustments, each featuring arms with tooling channels and threaded rod receivers equipped with compression channels for secure rod engagement. Further, a tensioner assembly, working in concert with a strategically placed spring, allows for selective tensioning between fully tensioned, partially tensioned, and un-tensioned states, supporting granular adjustments necessary for precise bone alignment and assembly stability.