Play-Free Navigation Tracker Locking Interface for Fast Surgical Setup
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional navigation array connections in surgical procedures require metal components and screw-based mechanisms, which are costly, time-consuming, and subjective to user tightening, affecting connection accuracy and prolonging surgical procedures.
Innovation Solution
A navigation tracker connection system using plastic and metal interfaces with a locking mechanism, including a biasing member and ramp surfaces, allowing for a fast, reliable, and play-free connection that ensures precise alignment without the need for calibration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If screw-based connection mechanisms are used, then connection strength and reliability are improved, but surgical time and operational complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the screw-based fastening mechanism from the connection system, extracting the time-consuming tightening operation while maintaining connection reliability through a snap-fit locking mechanism with ramp surfaces that provide automatic engagement and secure locking without requiring manual screw tightening
Solution Approach 2:
The connection system employs self-aligning ramp surfaces on the extension member and locking member that automatically engage when components are brought together, eliminating the need for manual alignment and tightening operations. The biasing member provides automatic engagement force, making the connection process self-servicing rather than requiring operator intervention for tightening
2Strength
If metal components are used for connection, then connection strength is improved, but cost and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes a composite construction where the housing is made of metal material providing structural strength, while the extension member and locking member can be made of plastic or polymer materials. This composite approach maintains connection strength through the metal housing while reducing overall component complexity and cost by using lighter, easier-to-manufacture materials for non-critical components
Solution Approach 2:
The connection system is divided into separate modular components: a housing, an extension member, and a locking member. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently for its specific function, simplifying manufacturing and assembly while maintaining overall connection strength through the designed interface between segments
3Ease of manufacture
If reusable components are used, then manufacturing cost is reduced, but connection precision and calibration requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The extension member is pre-formed with integrated ramp surfaces and positioning features during manufacturing, eliminating the need for post-assembly calibration. The locking member is pre-configured with corresponding engagement surfaces, ensuring precise alignment and connection geometry is built-in before the components are assembled during surgical use
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs geometric parameters of the ramp surfaces and interface surfaces that are optimized to provide both precise alignment and secure locking. By carefully designing the angles and dimensions of these surfaces, the system achieves high connection precision while maintaining ease of manufacture through standard molding and fabrication processes
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 cost-effective, disposable navigation arrays with consistent and accurate positioning, reducing surgical time by eliminating the need for screw tightening and allowing for pre-calibrated connections.
Implementation Method 1
the first locking member ramp surface is configured to engage the first extension ramp surface when the biasing member biases the locking member
Data Source
AI summary
A navigation tracker connection interface system, including: a first interface including: a first interface surface; an extension member having a first extension ramp surface facing the first side; and an interface hole on the side of the first interface; and a second interface including: a housing including: a second interface surface; an interface pin; a housing opening; and a channel; a locking member configured to slide in the channel including: a locking member opening; and a first locking member ramp surface; and a biasing member configured to bias the locking member, wherein interface hole is configured to receive the interface pin, wherein the first interface surfaces are configured to engage the second interface surfaces, and wherein the first locking member ramp surface is configured to engage the first extension ramp surface when the biasing member biases the locking member.