Mandibular Distractor Swivel Joint for Clamp Binding
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional mandibular osteodistraction systems face issues with rigid coupling of clamps to the distraction rod, leading to buckling or binding due to changes in the angles of bone fixtures, which can hinder the distraction process and cause discomfort.
Innovation Solution
A mandibular distraction system featuring a swivel joint and dampening mechanism that allows the clamp to rotate relative to the distraction rod, controlling rotational movement and compensating for changes in bone fixture positions while applying distractive forces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If clamps are rigidly coupled to the distraction rod, then the structure is simple and stable, but buckling or binding occurs due to angle changes in bone fixtures
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp is transformed from a rigid fixed connection to a dynamic rotational connection through the swivel joint mechanism. The swivel joint includes a first clamp body, a second clamp body, and a swivel mechanism that allows relative rotation between them, enabling the clamp to adapt to angle changes in bone fixtures during distraction while maintaining stable connection.
2Ease of manufacture
If the clamp is fixed relative to the distraction rod, then manufacturing is simpler, but it cannot compensate for changes in bone fixture positions
Solution Approach 1:
The swivel joint mechanism introduces controlled rotational freedom between clamp components, allowing the clamp to automatically adjust to varying angles of bone fixtures during the distraction process while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The swivel joint acts as an intermediary mechanism between the fixed distraction rod and the movable clamp, mediating the angle changes by allowing rotational movement while maintaining the connection. This intermediary structure enables adaptability without significantly complicating the overall assembly.
3Strength
If rigid coupling is used between clamp and rod, then structural integrity is maintained, but unwanted forces are generated during distraction
Solution Approach 1:
The swivel joint allows the clamp to rotate and release unwanted lateral forces generated during distraction while maintaining the primary distractive force transmission. The rotational freedom enables the structure to accommodate angle changes without generating binding forces that would compromise structural integrity.
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 system effectively reduces unwanted forces and adapts to changes in bone fixture angles, ensuring stable and efficient bone lengthening without binding, thereby improving the osteodistraction process.
Implementation Method 1
a circular loop of frictional material positioned in the swivel joint whereby the degree of rotational movement of the clamp relative to the distraction rod may be controlled
Implementation Method 2
a dampening mechanism which serves to dampen the rotational movement of the advancement mechanism relative to the second clamp
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides for a system for mandibular distraction which includes a rod and a first pin clamp assembly coupled adjacent a first end of the rod. Furthermore, the first pin clamp assembly includes a first clamp. The system further includes a second pin clamp assembly which includes an advancement mechanism that moveably couples the second pin clamp assembly to the rod and a second clamp. Furthermore, a swivel joint is disposed between the advancement mechanism and the second clamp whereby the second clamp is enabled to rotate relative to the advancement mechanism.