Orthopedic External Fixation Device with Locking Universal Joint
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional orthopedic external fixation devices lack the ability to lock attachment angles, making them less efficient and more complex to use for various orthopedic fixation applications.
Innovation Solution
A locking universal joint hinge and telescopically adjustable struts with a lead screw and adjustment knob system that allows for precise angular locking and length adjustment, enabling efficient configuration of external fixators for orthopedic applications.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional universal joints are used to connect base members, then the device can provide adjustable angles, but the attachment angle cannot be locked
Solution Approach 1:
The universal joint incorporates a dynamic locking mechanism that transitions between locked and unlocked states. The clevis pin can be inserted or removed from the aperture in the strut, dynamically changing the joint from a movable connection to a fixed rigid connection, thereby providing both adjustability and locking capability
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional universal joints are used, then the device can be configured for various angles, but the configuration process is complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The universal joint is segmented into distinct modular components: a clevis connector with aperture, a clevis pin, and a strut with positioning features. This segmentation allows each component to be independently manufactured and assembled, simplifying the overall structure while maintaining configuration flexibility through straightforward assembly and disassembly of these discrete parts
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional universal joints are used, then the device can provide adjustability, but it lacks quick release capability
Solution Approach 1:
The strut incorporates pre-formed apertures and positioning features that are prepared in advance during manufacturing. These pre-prepared features allow the clevis pin to be quickly inserted or removed without requiring complex adjustment procedures, enabling rapid release and reconfiguration of the external fixation device
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
The solution simplifies the adjustment process, enhances the robustness of the fixator's configuration, and improves the efficiency of orthopedic treatments by allowing quick release and precise locking of the adjustable struts, facilitating better bone alignment and healing.
Implementation Method 1
a lead screw having external threads, one end of the lead screw extending into the axial center of the shaft
Implementation Method 2
generate a frictional or mechanical interference between the two contacting surfaces
Data Source
AI summary
An orthopedic system includes a universal joint. The universal joint includes a ball from which a stem extends, a housing, and a connecting piece. The housing includes a first portion and a second portion that together define a spherical internal volume that is sized and configured to receive the ball therein. The first portion defines a first opening through which at least one of a portion of the ball or a portion of the stem extends, and the second portion defining a second opening therethrough. The connecting piece includes a first threaded stem portion, a second threaded stem portion, and a middle portion disposed between the first and second threaded stem portions. The first threaded stem portion is sized and configured to be received within the second opening defined by the second portion and to contact the ball to generate a frictional interference to lock the universal joint.