Ramped Compression Force Magnifier for Bone Plate Fixation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current orthopedic implant fixation devices, particularly for Hallux Abducto Valgus deformity, face challenges in effectively applying and maintaining compression forces across bones, leading to incomplete fusion and potential complications like bunion formation and forefoot pain.
Innovation Solution
A compression force magnifier device with a ramped component and angled surface is integrated into a bone plate, allowing for enhanced compressive force application by leveraging the screw's movement down the ramp to draw bones closer together, and a removable design to prevent protruding screws.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If a standard bone plate with screws is used for fixation, then the device is simple and easy to manufacture, but the compressive force applied to the bone is insufficient leading to incomplete fusion
Solution Approach 1:
The compression force magnifier is designed as a separate, removable component that can be inserted into the screw hole of the bone plate. This segmentation allows the standard bone plate to maintain its simplicity while the magnifier component provides the enhanced compression function when needed during surgery.
Solution Approach 2:
The compression force magnifier acts as an intermediary device between the screw and the bone. It translates the rotational motion of the screw into amplified linear compression force on the bone, enabling sufficient compressive force to be applied without requiring a completely different fixation device.
2Reliability
If compression force is increased to ensure proper fusion, then fusion success improves, but the risk of screw protrusion and soft tissue damage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The compression force magnifier incorporates a ramped surface that dynamically converts rotational screw motion into controlled linear compression. This dynamic mechanism allows the compression force to be applied progressively and controllably, preventing sudden excessive forces that could cause screw protrusion or soft tissue damage.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnifier changes the mechanical parameters of force application by using the ramped surface geometry to amplify the compression force while controlling its direction and magnitude. This parameter transformation enables high compression forces to be applied safely without the harmful effects associated with direct high-force screw application.
3Ease of operation
If a removable compression magnifier is used, then screw protrusion is prevented and compression control is improved, but the device complexity and number of components increases
Solution Approach 1:
The compression force magnifier is designed to be inserted into the existing screw holes of standard bone plates, making it compatible with multiple plate designs and configurations. This universal interface reduces the need for completely custom-designed fixation devices while still providing enhanced compression control functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnifier component is designed to nest within the screw hole of the bone plate, with the compression element fitting inside the magnifier housing. This nested configuration minimizes the overall space required and reduces the visual and physical complexity of the assembled device while maintaining all necessary functional components.
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 solution enables precise and controlled bone compression, facilitating successful fusion and osteotomy procedures while minimizing surgical complications by applying higher compressive forces and eliminating the issue of protruding screws.
Implementation Method 1
a ramped component above the engaging surface, the ramped component having a bottom surface adjacent the engaging surface and an angled upper surface
Implementation Method 2
leveraging the screw's movement down the ramp to draw bones closer together
Data Source
AI summary
A compression force magnifier comprising: an engaging surface for attaching to a bone plate; a ramped component above the engaging surface, the ramped component having a bottom surface adjacent the engaging surface and an angled upper surface; and a hole extending through the ramped component and the engaging surface.