Prosthesis Alignment via Optical Marking Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for setting up prostheses with multiple components are complex and require extensive knowledge, making it difficult for orthopedic technicians to ensure optimal alignment and orientation, often resulting in non-optimal setups that can lead to discomfort, joint pain, and increased risk of stumbling.
Innovation Solution
A method involving markings on components that are detected by sensors to determine their position and orientation relative to each other, allowing for comparison with target positions and orientations, enabling easier and more efficient setup without requiring the patient to wear the prosthesis, using optical or wireless sensors and electronic data processing for precise adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If traditional prosthesis setup methods are used, then the prosthesis can be assembled, but the alignment and orientation of components cannot be ensured with high precision, leading to non-optimal setup
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses optical copying by projecting a laser line onto the prosthesis components to create a visual reference of the desired alignment. This optical copy allows the technician to compare the actual component positions with the projected reference lines, enabling precise alignment without complex measurement devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary system consisting of cameras, laser projectors, and computer processing that mediates between the physical components and the technician. This intermediary automatically detects component positions, calculates alignment deviations, and provides correction guidance, reducing the complexity burden on the technician while maintaining high precision.
2Ease of operation
If traditional prosthesis setup methods are used, then the setup can be completed, but extensive specialist knowledge is required, making it difficult for technicians
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback system where cameras continuously monitor component positions, the computer calculates deviations from target alignment, and the system provides real-time visual feedback through projected laser lines and displayed guidance. This closed-loop feedback enables technicians to make iterative adjustments without requiring extensive prior knowledge.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-measurement and self-evaluation by automatically detecting component positions and calculating alignment accuracy. This eliminates the need for technicians to manually measure and calculate complex alignment parameters, making the operation easier while preserving the expertise embedded in the system's algorithms.
3Loss of time
If the prosthesis setup is performed without patient involvement, then setup time is reduced, but accurate determination of component orientation relative to the patient's body is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by first establishing a reference coordinate system on the patient's body (using anatomical landmarks detected by cameras), then using this pre-established reference to automatically determine the orientation of prosthesis components relative to the body. This preliminary setup enables subsequent rapid measurements without requiring the patient to be in specific functional positions.
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 method simplifies the prosthesis setup process by allowing for accurate alignment and orientation of components without patient involvement, reducing setup time and improving comfort and safety by providing actionable recommendations for adjustments, and can be combined with existing systems for further refinement.
Implementation Method 1
detecting a position and/or an orientation of the at least one marking of the closely arranged components by means of at least one sensor
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a method for carrying out a prosthesis set-up, wherein multiple components are arranged close to each other, the method comprising the a) providing at least one marking on each of the at least one components, b) arranging various components close to each other, c) detecting a position and/or an orientation of the at least one marking of the closely arranged components by means of at least one optical sensor, d) determining the actual position and/or the actual orientation of the closely arranged components relative to one another using the detected position and/or orientation of the at least one marking, and e) comparing the determined actual position and/or actual orientation with a target position and/or target orientation.