Prosthesis Interchangeable Components Snap-Fit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing prostheses lack the ability to readily and practically interchange metal and non-metal components to optimize configuration during implantation, leading to imprecise connections and inadequate adaptability to anatomical variations.
Innovation Solution
A prosthesis design featuring connectors that allow for the releasable engagement of components through snap-fitting mechanisms, enabling the interchange of parts with different configurations and materials to maintain precise tolerances and secure connections between articulating bones.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If metal and non-metal components are joined permanently, then structural integrity is maintained, but adaptability and ease of configuration during procedure are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The prosthesis is divided into separate metal and non-metal components that can be joined and separated independently. The metal base portion and non-metal guide surface component are distinct segments that connect through mechanical interfaces, allowing the non-metal component to be replaced while retaining the metal anchoring structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection between metal and non-metal components transitions from static permanent joining to dynamic releasable joining. The mechanical interface with deflectable elements and confronting surfaces enables the connection to be engaged and disengaged as needed, providing adaptability during surgical procedures while maintaining structural integrity when engaged.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple prosthesis configurations are kept on hand, then adaptability to anatomical variations is improved, but device complexity and inventory management are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The metal base portion serves as a universal component that can accommodate multiple different non-metal guide surface components. The standardized mechanical interface allows a single metal component to work with various non-metal components having different geometries, materials, or surface properties, reducing the need to maintain multiple complete prosthesis sets.
3Ease of operation
If truncated conical projections are used to join components, then ease of assembly is improved, but manufacturing precision and connection reliability are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The deflectable element is pre-configured in a compressed state within the recess, ready to deflect outward upon engagement. This preliminary preparation allows the projection to be inserted without requiring precise force control during assembly, as the deflectable element automatically provides the necessary clearance and then locks into position.
Solution Approach 2:
The deflectable element acts as an intermediary between the projection and the fixed confronting surface. It mediates the engagement process by providing a compliant interface that absorbs dimensional variations and tolerance stack-ups, allowing rougher machining tolerances while maintaining reliable connection.
Data Source
AI summary
A prosthesis having: a) a first assembly with a first base portion to be placed against, and operatively secured to, a patient's first bone; and b) a second assembly with a second base portion to be placed against, and operatively secured to, a patient's second bone. The first and second assemblies respectively define first and second surfaces that cooperate with each other to guide articulated movement between the first and second bones. At least one of the first and second base portions is configured to cooperate with a separate first component defining at least a part of one of the first and second surfaces to maintain the first component in an operative state. A second component is configured to define at least a part of the one of the first and second surfaces and can be placed in an operative state selectively in place of the first component.