Orthopedic Fixator Strut Swap Visualization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing techniques for controlling orthopedic fixator manipulation are inefficient and unreliable, particularly in indicating strut swap ranges and allowing interfamily strut swaps, which limits the ability to select the appropriate strut family for deformity correction based on specific length requirements.
Innovation Solution
A computing system generates graphical representations of fixator manipulations, including strut swaps, to clearly indicate strut swap ranges and allows interfamily strut swaps between different strut families, enabling adjustments to achieve the necessary strut lengths for deformity correction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If conventional techniques are used to indicate strut swap ranges, then the treatment plan can be followed, but the indication of strut swap ranges and remaining duration is unclear and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a visual copy or representation of the treatment plan timeline that clearly displays strut swap ranges and remaining durations. This graphical representation serves as a copy of the abstract treatment schedule, making the information concrete and easily understandable for users executing the treatment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs color-coded visual indicators to represent different aspects of the strut swap range information. Different colors indicate different states (e.g., remaining duration vs. expired duration), making the information immediately distinguishable and reducing cognitive load on users.
2Reliability
If conventional techniques are used for strut swap indication, then single-family struts can be managed, but the ability to indicate remaining and expired strut swap range duration is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent adds a visual dimension to the strut swap range information by displaying it as a graphical representation with spatial extent. Instead of merely listing dates, the system creates a visual bar or timeline segment that spans the duration, allowing users to intuitively grasp both the start and end points as well as the remaining portion at any given time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the strut swap range indication into distinct visual segments: one segment shows the total range duration, while another segment shows the remaining duration. This segmentation allows users to simultaneously perceive both the overall timeline and the current status without confusion.
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional techniques are used for strut selection, then struts from a single family can be used, but interfamily strut swaps are not allowed, limiting length range options
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal treatment planning system that can accommodate multiple strut families (e.g., standard struts, quick adjust struts) within a single unified interface. The system treats different strut families as interchangeable options that can be selected based on treatment requirements, rather than requiring separate planning processes for each family type.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a dynamic strut selection capability where the available strut options and their length ranges can change based on the treatment stage and requirements. The system adapts to allow interfamily swaps when appropriate, providing real-time flexibility rather than being locked into a predetermined single-family approach.
Data Source
AI summary
A plurality of three-dimensional fixator graphical representations may include graphical indications of a strut swap range. A plurality of replaced strut graphical representations may change from a first rendering state in a swap start fixator graphical representation to a second rendering state in a swap end fixator graphical representation. A plurality of replacement graphical representations may change from the second rendering state in the swap start fixator graphical representation to the first rendering state in the swap end fixator graphical representation. In some examples, the plurality of replaced strut graphical representations may gradually fade out from a swap start stage to a swap end stage, and the plurality of replacement strut graphical representations may gradually fade in from a swap start stage to a swap end stage. Additionally, a treatment plan including at least one interfamily strut swap may be generated for manipulating a fixator to correct a deformity.