Orthopedic Taper Separation Tool Wedge Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current orthopedic tools require significant force to separate or connect modular prosthesis components, particularly those connected via male/female taper arrangements, which can damage implanted components during revision surgeries and limit precise control over separation forces.
Innovation Solution
An orthopedic tool featuring a housing with a wedge mechanism that separates the upper and lower portions upon actuation, allowing for controlled separation or seating of components without direct force application, utilizing a handle and impaction cap to facilitate loosening and shielding internal mechanisms from impact forces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If significant force is applied to separate male/female tapered orthopedic components, then the components can be separated, but the implanted components may be damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary tool that fits between the male and female tapered components. This tool has a first portion that engages with the male component and a second portion that engages with the female component, allowing force to be applied indirectly through the tool rather than directly to the implanted components, thus preventing damage while enabling separation.
Solution Approach 2:
The separation tool is divided into multiple segments or portions, with each portion designed to engage with specific parts of the tapered components. This segmentation allows for precise engagement and controlled force application at different locations along the taper, enabling separation while protecting the implanted portions.
2Strength
If significant force is applied to seat orthopedic components together, then the components can be connected, but precise control over separation forces is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The tool incorporates dynamic elements that allow it to adapt to the specific geometry and clearance of the tapered components during engagement. This dynamic engagement enables the tool to provide precise control over the separation force applied, allowing the surgeon to control the separation process while maintaining strong connection when seating components.
Solution Approach 2:
The tool design incorporates features that provide tactile feedback to the surgeon during the separation process, allowing real-time adjustment of applied force. This feedback mechanism enables precise control over separation forces while ensuring proper connection strength when components are seated.
3Ease of operation
If a wedge mechanism is used for separation, then controlled separation can be achieved, but the internal mechanism may be exposed to impact forces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a nested structure where the wedge mechanism is housed within a protective outer shell or housing. This nested arrangement shields the internal wedge mechanism from direct exposure to impact forces during use, while still allowing the wedge to perform its separation function through controlled engagement with the tapered components.
Solution Approach 2:
The tool incorporates protective features such as shock-absorbing materials or designed force distribution paths that cushion the internal wedge mechanism from impact forces before they can cause damage. This beforehand cushioning protects the internal mechanism while maintaining the controlled separation capability.
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 the alteration of connections between orthopedic components with reduced risk of damage to implanted parts, allowing for precise and efficient separation or seating without the need for significant force, thereby ensuring proper mating of new components during revision surgeries.
Implementation Method 1
The wedge is positioned at least partially between the upper portion and the lower portion of the housing and is actuatable to move toward the head of the housing. When at least a portion of the head of the housing is placed in mating engagement with the junction defined between two assembled orthopedic components, advancement of the wedge towards the head results in separation of the upper portion and lower portion of the housing.
Data Source
AI summary
An orthopedic tool for loosening the connection between orthopedic components. In one embodiment, the orthopedic tool includes a housing and a wedge. The housing has a head, an upper portion, a lower portion, and an opening between the upper and lower portions. The wedge is positioned at least partially between the upper portion and the lower portion of the housing and is actuatable to move toward the head of the housing. When at least a portion of the head of the housing is placed in mating engagement with the junction between two assembled orthopedic components, advancement of the wedge towards the head results in separation of the upper portion and lower portion of the housing. Thus, as the wedge is advanced toward the head, the upper and lower portions of the housing are separated, which results in corresponding separation of the assembled orthopedic components.