Multi-axis Adjustable Splint with Rotating Clamp Assemblies
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional adjustable minisplint devices for bone fractures are limited by axial linear movement of clamps, restricted bone screw orientation, complex multi-part lead screw systems, and exposed lead screws, which restrict treatment options and ease of use.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable splint system with a rail body and independently adjustable clamp assemblies that can rotate about three axes, featuring a lead bolt for translational movement and a clamp nut for secure positioning, along with a ball-joint bolt assembly for enhanced flexibility and safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the clamp is made movable along the longitudinal axis, then the adjustability and treatment options are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into modular components: a rail body with longitudinal axis, separate clamp assemblies (fixed and movable), and a lead screw mechanism. This segmentation allows the movable clamp to be adjusted independently along the longitudinal axis through the lead screw, providing position adjustability while keeping each component relatively simple in structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamp assembly transitions from a fixed position to a dynamically adjustable position along the longitudinal axis. The lead screw mechanism enables the clamp to move to different locations on the rail body, allowing dynamic adaptation to different treatment requirements while maintaining structural integrity.
2Ease of operation
If the lead screw projects outwardly from the elongated body for adjustment, then the ease of operation is improved, but the risk of accidental turning increases
Solution Approach 1:
A protective cap or cover is introduced as an intermediary element between the lead screw and the environment. This cap allows the lead screw to remain accessible for intentional adjustment while preventing accidental rotation by covering the exposed portions of the lead screw when not in use.
Solution Approach 2:
The protective cap is designed to be removable or movable only in the intended direction of adjustment, preventing reverse or accidental rotation before it can occur. This preliminary protective measure counteracts the potential harmful effect of accidental turning while preserving ease of operation when needed.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple clamp assemblies are positioned on the rail body, then the treatment versatility is improved, but the positioning flexibility between clamps is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The rail body is designed as a universal platform that can accommodate multiple clamp assemblies at various positions along its longitudinal axis. Each clamp can be independently adjusted to different locations, allowing the same rail body structure to support multiple clamps for treating different bones or fracture sites while maintaining positioning flexibility through the adjustable lead screw mechanism for each clamp.
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-axis adjustable splint for treating the fracture of bones includes a rail body that has a longitudinal axis. The splint further includes a fixed clamp assembly coupled to the rail body for securing at least one first bone screw in a first desired orientation. The fixed clamp assembly is translationally fixed relative to the rail body. The adjustable splint further includes a movable clamp assembly movably coupled to the rail body for securing at least one second bone screw in a second desired orientation. The movable clamp assembly is translatable along the longitudinal axis of the rail body. Both the fixed clamp assembly and the movable clamp assembly are each independently adjustable about three axes of rotation relative to the rail body.