Modular Wrist Tower for Orthopedic Positioning
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional orthopedic positioning devices for the arm, wrist, and hand are limited by their inability to apply interchangeable modular support components, leading to a need for multiple devices for different procedures, resulting in increased cost and clutter.
Innovation Solution
A modular arm positioner system with a rail clamp, removable arm support, wrist distraction tower, humeral support, and reducer attachment, allowing for various patient orientations with a single system by securing attachments to a rail clamp on a surgical table.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional orthopedic positioning devices are used for different procedures, then specific positioning functions are achieved, but multiple separate devices are required leading to increased cost and clutter
Solution Approach 1:
The orthopedic positioning system employs a universal base unit that can accommodate multiple different positioning attachments through standardized interfaces. The base includes a vertical post with standardized attachment points and a horizontal support bar with universal mounting mechanisms, allowing the same base to support various attachments for different surgical procedures including wrist positioning, hand positioning, and arm support configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The positioning system is divided into modular components: a reusable base unit and interchangeable attachments. Each attachment is a self-contained module designed to connect to the base through standardized interfaces. This segmentation allows individual attachments to be replaced or reconfigured based on procedural needs without replacing the entire positioning system.
2Reliability
If multiple independent positioner devices are used for different procedures, then specific positioning requirements are met, but additional cost and clutter are introduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses a universal base with standardized attachment mechanisms that ensure reliable and accurate positioning across different procedures. The base includes precision-engineered mounting interfaces and adjustment mechanisms that maintain positioning accuracy regardless of which attachment is used, eliminating the need for multiple specialized devices while preserving procedural-specific positioning requirements.
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional support devices are used, then basic support function is provided, but interchangeability with modular support components is lacking
Solution Approach 1:
The base unit incorporates universal mounting mechanisms including standardized clamps, quick-release latches, and pre-drilled mounting holes positioned at multiple locations. These features enable attachments to be easily attached and detached without specialized tools or complex procedures, maintaining both modular interchangeability and operational simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The positioning system incorporates adjustable and movable components including the horizontal support bar that can be repositioned along the vertical post, and attachments that can be rotated or adjusted to different orientations. This dynamic capability allows the system to adapt to different procedural requirements while maintaining ease of operation through smooth, tool-free adjustments.
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
Enables efficient and versatile positioning of the arm, wrist, and hand for surgical, rehabilitative, or imaging procedures, reducing the need for multiple devices and enhancing procedural flexibility.
Implementation Method 1
The base includes a rod that slides vertically into a corresponding socket in the rail clamp
Implementation Method 2
The tower post may include a threaded region in some embodiments. A moveable tower hanger is disposed on the tower post.
Implementation Method 3
a traction gauge is disposed between the traction hanger and the traction straps allowing a provider to monitory the tensile traction forces applied to the user's arm, wrist or hand by the wrist tower apparatus
Data Source
AI summary
A wrist tower attachment for an arm stabilizer device is configured for modular attachment on a support arm secured in a rail clamp mounted on a rail of an operating table. The wrist tower attachment includes a wrist tower base and a wrist tower post protruding upwardly from the wrist tower base. The support arm includes a stabilizer bar having a distal bar end, and the wrist tower attachment is secured onto the distal bar end. In some embodiments, the wrist tower attachment includes a female axial socket shaped to receive the male distal bar end. A traction bar is positioned on the wrist tower post and protrudes radially from the wrist tower post. A tension gauge is disposed on the traction bar in some embodiments.