Modular Wedge-Lock Bracket for Orthopedic Tool Fixation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing orthopedic tool support brackets lack sufficient mechanical durability and versatility to securely hold and partition larger, heavier orthopedic tools and devices, and are often limited by their design to specific tray configurations, leading to potential displacement and structural degradation during handling and storage.
Innovation Solution
A modular support bracket system with a quick-release anchor mechanism and adjustable support members of various shapes (e.g., 'L', 'V', 'U') that can be positioned in multiple orientations, featuring a bracket insert with ridges for secure interference fit and polymeric materials for durability, allowing for secure positioning and repositioning within trays or cases.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a modular support bracket system with quick-release anchor mechanism is used, then ease of operation and repositioning capability are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket system is divided into separate modular components: the bracket body, the anchor mechanism, and the support members. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and facilitates easy assembly, disassembly, and repositioning of the bracket within the tray.
Solution Approach 2:
The anchor mechanism incorporates movable elements that allow the bracket to be quickly attached and detached from the tray. The dynamic design enables transition between fixed and movable states, providing both secure positioning and repositioning capability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If support members of various shapes are used to accommodate different tool geometries, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket system employs support members with different geometric configurations (L-shaped, V-shaped, U-shaped) that can be selectively positioned within the same bracket structure. This universal design allows a single bracket system to accommodate various tool shapes and sizes without requiring completely different bracket designs.
Solution Approach 2:
Different portions of the bracket system have specialized features tailored to specific tool geometries. The support members are designed with local variations in shape and positioning to match the specific contours and requirements of different orthopedic tools.
3Strength
If the bracket is designed to securely hold heavier orthopedic tools, then strength is improved, but the anchor structure becomes more prone to mechanical fatigue
Solution Approach 1:
The anchor structure is segmented into multiple attachment points and distributed load-bearing elements rather than relying on a single anchor point. This distributes the mechanical stress from heavy tools across multiple locations, reducing the fatigue load on any single component.
Solution Approach 2:
The bracket system utilizes materials with high strength-to-weight ratios and enhanced fatigue resistance properties. The combination of material selection and structural design provides both the necessary load-bearing capacity for heavy orthopedic tools and resistance to mechanical fatigue over repeated use cycles.
Data Source
AI summary
A support bracket for holding, securing and portioning orthopedic tools and/or devices within a case or tray is described. Multiple support brackets creating a modular system of brackets may be used within the case. Each support bracket is designed to releasably lock within an opening of a floor of the tray or case. The support bracket comprises a support member having opposing sidewall surfaces that upwardly extend from a base portion. A bracket insert, having a bottom wall extending distally from a sidewall, is positionable within a passageway formed within a bottom surface of the base portion to thereby lock the support bracket in position within the tray.