Orthopedic Impactor Tool Independent Axes Linear Motion Converter
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing orthopedic impactor tools are inefficient in converting rotational motion to linear motion, have inadequate robustness, complex and costly construction, and generate excessive recoil and noise, making them unsuitable for precise and controlled orthopedic procedures.
Innovation Solution
The orthopedic impactor tool employs a motor and a linear motion converter operating on independent axes, with a thrown mass accelerated to impact an anvil, utilizing a coupling drive assembly to mitigate axial forces and optimize energy conversion efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If traditional rotational-to-linear motion conversion mechanisms are used in orthopedic impactor tools, then the tool can deliver impact force, but the energy conversion efficiency is low and the device complexity is high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical motion conversion mechanisms (such as cam-follower systems, crank-connectors, or gear systems) with a direct electromagnetic linear actuator. The linear actuator converts electrical energy directly into linear motion, eliminating the need for intermediate mechanical conversion components. This substitution achieves high energy conversion efficiency (direct electromagnetic-to-mechanical energy conversion) while significantly reducing device complexity by removing multiple mechanical parts and their associated tolerances, wear points, and alignment requirements.
2Force
If high impact force is generated, then orthopedic procedures can be performed effectively, but excessive recoil and noise are produced
Solution Approach 1:
The linear actuator system is designed with a controlled deceleration phase that applies counter-action before the impactor head contacts the bone. The system pre-charges the electromagnetic field and controls the current waveform to create a smooth acceleration profile, then deliberately reduces current before impact to minimize rebound. This preliminary anti-action prevents excessive recoil by counterbalancing the impact force through controlled electromagnetic braking, and reduces noise by eliminating sudden mechanical reversals and vibrations.
3Reliability
If robust construction is used to withstand impact forces, then the tool can handle high-energy impacts, but the tool size and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs advanced material science parameter changes by using high-strength, low-density materials such as titanium alloys or carbon-fiber-reinforced polymers for the impactor head and housing. These materials provide exceptional strength-to-weight ratios, allowing the tool to withstand high impact forces while maintaining a compact size. Additionally, the linear actuator uses optimized electromagnetic parameters (magnetic field strength, coil density, core material) to deliver high force in a small package, avoiding the need for large mechanical components that would increase tool size.
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
This design achieves an energy conversion efficiency of at least 70%, reduces the tool's size and cost, enhances robustness, minimizes recoil and noise, and allows for precise and controlled high-energy linear impacts in orthopedic procedures.
Implementation Method 1
the linear motion converter, while being driven by the rotational motion, converts the rotational motion into linear motion and communicates the linear motion to the thrown mass
Implementation Method 2
the linear motion, communicated to the thrown mass, causes the thrown mass to accelerate and impact the at least one impact surface imparting a linear impact force on the anvil
Data Source
AI summary
An orthopedic impactor tool may include a motor, a linear motion converter operatively coupled to the motor, a thrown mass operatively coupled to the linear motion converter, and an anvil including a at least one impact surface. During an operational cycle of the orthopedic impactor tool, the motor may generate rotational motion that drives the linear motion converter. The linear motion converter may, while being driven by the rotational motion, convert the rotational motion into linear motion and communicate the linear motion to the thrown mass. The linear motion, communicated to the thrown mass, causes the thrown mass to accelerate and impact the at least one impact surface imparting a linear impact force on the anvil. The motor and the linear motion converter may operate on independent axes.


