Modular Medical Positioning Device with Form-Fit Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing medical-technical positioning and holding devices lack variability and expandability, requiring screwing for adjustments and limiting operational reliability, while also being costly and complex in assembly.
Innovation Solution
A medical-technical positioning and holding device with a base element, carrier units, and a closing element, featuring a form-fit coupling mechanism with undercut areas and locking pins, allowing for tool-free assembly and secure, variable arrangement of support arms without additional securing elements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed base body with bearing sections is used to accommodate support arms, then independent pivoting of support arms is enabled, but the number of support arms is limited and expandability is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The base body is segmented into modular coupling partners (base element, carrier units, closing element) that can be independently assembled and configured. Each carrier unit contains a stator core with receiving section and overlapping segment, allowing the system to be divided into interchangeable modules that can be arranged in various configurations to accommodate different numbers of support arms.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling mechanism uses nested structures where the stator core of each carrier unit is inserted into the receiving section of the previous element, with overlapping segments nesting within each other to create a telescopic arrangement. This nested design allows multiple carrier units to be stacked vertically on a single base element, enabling expandability without increasing the horizontal footprint.
2Adaptability or versatility
If support arms are screwed to the base part sequentially, then variable and expandable arrangement is enabled, but assembly requires screwing operations
Solution Approach 1:
The screwing mechanism is replaced with a mechanical coupling system based on form-fit engagement between undercut areas and overlapping segments. The coupling partners connect through direct insertion and rotation, where the overlapping segment of one stator core engages with the undercut area of the receiving section, eliminating the need for threaded fasteners and simplifying assembly to basic insertion and twisting motions.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling mechanism is designed to be self-securing through the interaction of undercut areas and overlapping segments. When the stator core is rotated into the receiving section, the overlapping segment automatically engages behind the undercut area, creating a self-locking form-fit connection that maintains the support arm in its desired position without requiring additional securing elements.
3Reliability
If locking pins are used to fix carrier units, then operational reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking function is merged with the coupling mechanism itself. The form-fit connection between the undercut area and overlapping segment performs both the coupling and locking functions simultaneously. The overlapping segment engages behind the undercut area to prevent axial displacement, while the rotatability is constrained by the geometry of the engagement, combining positioning and locking in a single integrated feature rather than separate components.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a medical positioning and holding device comprising several coupling partners, wherein the coupling partners are designed as a base element (1), a plurality of carrier units (2) and a termination element (3), and wherein the coupling partners are positively connected to one another and secured against unwanted rotation by means of locking bolts (7).