Programmable Tool for External Fixator Strut Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current external fixator strut adjustment methods are time-consuming, lack precision, and can cause frame instability due to manual adjustments, which are prone to human error and do not provide feedback on accurate adjustments.
Innovation Solution
A programmable tool with a microcontroller, motor, gearbox, and rotating shaft that automatically adjusts the length of external fixator struts based on preprogrammed instructions, using a housing with data ports, sensors, and a control panel for precise and incremental adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If manual adjustment methods are used for external fixator struts, then the device complexity is reduced, but the measurement precision and manufacturing precision of strut length adjustment deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical adjustment with an automated programmable tool that uses a motor-driven mechanism to rotate the adjustment mechanism of the strut. This substitution of mechanical manual operation with automated motorized control enables precise control of the adjustment process, achieving accurate strut length modification without requiring complex manual measurement and calculation procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The programmable adjustment tool is designed to automatically perform the adjustment process based on pre-programmed instructions. The tool engages with the strut's adjustment mechanism and autonomously rotates it to the predetermined position, eliminating the need for manual measurement and calculation by the user, thereby ensuring consistent and accurate adjustment precision.
2Ease of operation
If manual adjustment methods are used for external fixator struts, then the ease of operation is improved, but the productivity and time efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustment parameters and target positions are pre-programmed into the tool before use. The programmable tool stores the required adjustment instructions in advance, allowing the user to simply engage the tool with the strut and activate the adjustment without performing manual measurements or calculations during the procedure, thereby significantly reducing adjustment time while maintaining ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The manual mechanical adjustment process is replaced with an automated motor-driven system in the programmable tool. The motor automatically rotates the adjustment mechanism at controlled speeds, eliminating the need for manual turning and measurement during the adjustment process, thereby increasing productivity while keeping the operation simple for the user.
3Device complexity
If manual adjustment methods are used for external fixator struts, then the device complexity is reduced, but the reliability and stability of the adjustment process deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The programmable adjustment tool incorporates feedback mechanisms that monitor the adjustment process and ensure accurate positioning. The tool uses sensors and control systems to detect the current position of the adjustment mechanism and compares it with the target position, automatically making corrections to achieve precise and reliable adjustment, thereby improving stability without requiring complex manual control procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The manual adjustment process is replaced with an automated motor-driven system that provides consistent and repeatable adjustment results. The motor-controlled mechanism ensures uniform rotation and positioning, eliminating the variability introduced by manual operation, thereby improving the reliability and stability of the adjustment process while keeping the overall device complexity manageable.
4Ease of manufacture
If manual adjustment methods are used for external fixator struts, then the ease of manufacture is improved, but the loss of time in adjustment procedures increases
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustment parameters are pre-calculated and programmed into the tool during manufacturing. The programmable tool stores the required adjustment instructions in advance, allowing for rapid execution during clinical use without requiring time-consuming manual measurements or calculations, thereby reducing adjustment procedure time while maintaining reasonable manufacturing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The manual adjustment process is replaced with an automated motor-driven system that executes adjustments rapidly and consistently. The motor-controlled mechanism eliminates the need for manual turning and measurement during procedures, significantly reducing adjustment time while the tool's design maintains manufacturing feasibility through standardized components and modular architecture.
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
The tool enables precise, efficient, and stable adjustments of external fixator struts, reducing human error and providing feedback on the completion of adjustments, thus improving the accuracy and reliability of the adjustment process.
Implementation Method 1
A motor is disposed within the housing and a gear box positioned between an output shaft and the motor
Implementation Method 2
a gear box positioned between an output shaft and the motor with a strut fitting is adapted to fit an external fixation strut in operable communication with the output shaft
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure includes a method for adjusting the orientation of a first external fixator support member relative to a second external fixator support member, wherein a plurality of adjustable struts connect the first and second external fixator support members. The method include providing a programmable tool, and storing, in a memory unit of the tool, instructions for adjusting the length of each of the plurality of adjustable struts to a desired length. The method further includes receiving identification information corresponding to a first adjustable strut and retrieving, from the memory unit, the instructions for adjusting the length of the first adjustable strut. The method also includes activating an actuator of the tool to adjust the length of the first adjustable strut according to the retrieved instructions. Various embodiments of the programmable tools are also included in the present disclosure.