Interbody Fusion Implant With Integral Elastic Fixator Lock

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing interbody fusion devices face issues with displacement due to the use of additional fixators, leading to complications such as dysphagia, damage to surrounding tissues, and increased manufacturing costs from additional locking mechanisms.

Innovation Solution

An interbody fusion device with an integral elastic band and fixing part that surrounds the circular opening, preventing fixator displacement through elastic force without requiring separate accessories, manufactured via additive manufacturing.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a C-shape retaining ring is used to prevent fixator displacement, then the fixator can be secured, but manufacturing costs increase and the locked state becomes unstable

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefixator stabilityVSAvoidlocking mechanism complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The elastic band is integrally formed with the interbody fusion device body, merging two separate components into one unified structure. This eliminates the need for separate C-shape retaining rings or additional locking accessories, reducing device complexity while maintaining fixator stability through the elastic band's inherent elasticity and integration with the device body

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The elastic band utilizes its own elastic properties to automatically engage with and secure the fixator in place. The elastic force generated by the deformed elastic band provides continuous locking pressure without requiring external locking mechanisms or additional accessories, enabling the device to secure itself

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

2Reliability

If a locking plate is used to prevent fixator dislodgement, then the fixator can be fixed, but additional members and separate locking actions are required

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefixator stabilityVSAvoidmanufacturing simplicity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The elastic band is manufactured as an integral part of the interbody fusion device body through additive manufacturing, combining the device body and elastic band into a single component. This eliminates the need for separate locking plates and reduces manufacturing steps while maintaining reliable fixator fixation

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The elastic band changes its physical state through elastic deformation when the fixator is inserted, transforming from a relaxed state to a deformed state that generates locking force. This parameter change enables automatic locking without requiring separate locking actions or additional members

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

3Reliability

If rotary locking parts are used to lock the bone fixation screw, then the fixator can be secured, but manufacturing costs increase and additional locking actions are required

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefixator stabilityVSAvoidlocking operation simplicity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The elastic band automatically locks the fixator through its elastic deformation during insertion, eliminating the need for rotary locking parts and separate locking actions. The device performs the locking function automatically as the fixator is inserted, simplifying the operation while maintaining stability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces complex mechanical rotary locking mechanisms with a simpler elastic-based locking system. The elastic band uses elastic force and deformation to achieve locking, substituting the need for rotary parts and complex mechanical locking actions

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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

Provides a stable and cost-effective locking mechanism by integrating the elastic band with the device, ensuring fixator stability without additional parts and tools, reducing manufacturing costs and complications.

Implementation Method 1

an elastic band configured to surround at least a portion of the circular opening, and comprising a first distal end including a fixing part protruding from the circular opening to prevent separation of the fixator

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElastic force: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS12558230B2Interbody fusion device

Publication Date: 2026.02.24 CG MEDTECH CO LTD

AI summary

Proposed is an interbody fusion device including a circular opening into which a fixator can be inserted, an elastic band configured to surround at least a portion of the circular opening, and comprising a first distal end including a fixing part protruding from the circular opening to prevent separation of the fixator, and a connection part connected to a second distal end of the elastic band, the elastic band is implemented with the same material as the interbody fusion device, and the elastic band and the interbody fusion device are integral.