Spring-Loaded Orthopedic Tool Connector for Fast Secure Swapping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing surgical tools, such as slap hammers, face challenges in quickly and easily coupling and disconnecting with various surgical instruments during procedures like total knee replacement.
Innovation Solution
A system featuring a slap hammer with a connector that allows for quick connection and disconnection of tools like a knee extractor, curved osteotome, and chisel through spring-loaded sheaths and engagement components, enabling efficient tool swapping during orthopedic procedures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional coupling mechanisms are used to connect tools with the slap hammer, then the connection is secure and reliable, but the coupling and disconnection process becomes time-consuming and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into distinct functional components: an outer casing that provides structural support, an inner component that houses the engagement mechanism, and a spring-loaded actuation system. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently while enabling rapid tool attachment and detachment without compromising connection reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The spring mechanism is pre-loaded within the connector before tool attachment. When the tool is inserted, the pre-compressed spring automatically engages the engagement component, creating a secure connection instantly. This preliminary action eliminates the need for manual fastening steps, significantly reducing coupling time while maintaining reliable connection
2Reliability
If traditional coupling mechanisms are used to connect tools with the slap hammer, then the connection is secure, but the ease of operation for quick tool swapping is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The connector employs a self-actuating spring mechanism that automatically engages and secures the tool upon insertion. The spring-loaded engagement component activates without manual intervention, providing both secure connection and ease of operation. For disconnection, a simple actuation releases the spring, allowing rapid tool removal while maintaining connection security during use
Solution Approach 2:
The connector transitions from a static traditional coupling mechanism to a dynamic spring-loaded system. The spring mechanism can rapidly change state between compressed (engaged) and released (disengaged), enabling quick tool swapping. This dynamic behavior maintains secure connection during surgery while allowing rapid tool exchanges when needed
3Speed
If a spring-loaded sheath mechanism is used for quick connection, then the coupling speed is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The spring-loaded sheath mechanism serves multiple functions: it provides rapid tool engagement, maintains secure connection during use, and enables quick disconnection. By integrating these functions into a single mechanism rather than separate systems, the patent achieves high coupling speed without proportionally increasing overall device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The engagement component is nested within the outer casing of the connector, with the spring mechanism contained within the inner component. This nested arrangement compactly houses the quick-coupling mechanism without significantly increasing the external dimensions or overall structural complexity of the connector, allowing fast tool attachment while maintaining a manageable device profile
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
Facilitates rapid and secure attachment and detachment of surgical tools, reducing procedural time and enhancing operational efficiency in total knee replacement surgeries.
Implementation Method 1
the first engagement component of the connector is at least partially surrounded by a spring-loaded sheath, the spring-loaded sheath configured to retract from the first engagement component such that the first engagement component can engage the second engagement component
Data Source
AI summary
A surgical tool connector that can couple with an orthopedic tool with an actuator. The connector can allow the slap hammer to quickly be coupled and decoupled with different tools. The connector can include a spring-loaded component such that the tool can be easily connected and disconnected from the slap hammer. The slap hammer can include a handle for controlling the connected tool.