Rigid Modular Connector With Pivoting Leaf Spring Collar
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional modular handles used in surgical procedures are unsuitable for applications requiring large axial loads due to inadequate connection for both rotational and translational directions, leading to insufficient tactile feedback, which is critical for screw insertion and surgical surface preparation.
Innovation Solution
A rigid modular connector comprising a handle, a collar with leaf springs, and a connector that maintains a secure connection while allowing for modularity, enabling precise rotational and translational movements with improved tactile feedback through a combination of threaded and pivoting mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional modular handles are used to maintain modularity, then adaptability is improved, but connection strength deteriorates due to inadequate connection for large axial loads
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into distinct modular components (handle, collar, connector body) that can be assembled and disassembled, maintaining modularity while each component is designed to withstand specific mechanical loads through optimized geometry and material selection
Solution Approach 2:
The collar incorporates a pivoting mechanism that allows dynamic adjustment during assembly and operation, enabling the connection to adapt to various load conditions while maintaining secure engagement for both rotational and translational forces
2Ease of operation
If conventional modular handles are used to maintain modularity, then ease of operation is improved, but tactile feedback deteriorates due to incorrect tactile feedback
Solution Approach 1:
The rigid connection mechanism between the collar and connector body provides direct mechanical feedback through the handle to the surgeon's hand, allowing accurate tactile perception of forces during screw insertion and surface preparation while maintaining ease of modular operation
3Device complexity
If conventional modular handles are used, then device complexity is reduced, but reliability deteriorates due to unsuitability for forceful actions
Solution Approach 1:
The pivoting collar mechanism provides dynamic locking capability that adapts to load conditions, enabling the simple modular design to reliably withstand forceful surgical actions through controlled movement and engagement of the pivoting elements
Solution Approach 2:
The connector components utilize composite construction combining different materials with complementary properties, providing both the simplicity of modular assembly and the reliability needed for high-stress surgical applications
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 modular connector provides a robust and modular connection suitable for forceful actions, enhancing tactile feedback and enabling effective screw insertion and surgical surface preparation by maintaining a rigid link between the handle and shaft.
Implementation Method 1
The one or more leaf springs may be operable to pivot slightly away from or closer to a center longitudinal axis defined through the internal collar aperture of the collar, thereby locking the collar with either the handle or the connector
Data Source
AI summary
A rigid modular connector operable to attach to any type of standard male surgical feature that is suitable for large axial loads in both rotational and translational directions while providing accurate tactile feedback. The rigid modular connector includes a handle, a connector rigidly affixed to a proximal end of the handle, and a collar that may slide longitudinally about the connector. The collar may further include one or more leaf springs that are operable to pivot slightly away from or closer to the collar. When the collar slides towards the handle on the connector, the one or more leaf springs may pivot inwardly, locking the collar with the handle in an open position. When the collar slides or the collar slides towards a proximal end of the connector, the one or more leaf springs may pivot outwardly, locking the collar with the connector in a closed position.