Autoclavable Robotic Rod Bender for Notch-Free Surgical Bending
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current devices for bending surgical rods in spinal fusion surgery are cumbersome and introduce notches, which can decrease the rod's fatigue life, requiring manual and inefficient processes.
Innovation Solution
A robotic rod bender system with an autoclavable top assembly, including a rod feeding subassembly, brake subassembly, and bending subassembly, driven by motors and a linear actuated elevator assembly, allowing for precise and automated bending of surgical rods within a sterile environment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual devices (French bender, power bender) are used to bend rods, then the bending process can be performed, but the process becomes cumbersome and introduces notches that decrease the rod's fatigue life
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical bending devices with a robotic system that uses a motor-driven bending mechanism. The robotic arm with controlled bending moment applies force to the rod through a contact point, eliminating the need for manual operation of French or power benders. This substitution maintains the ability to bend rods while avoiding the introduction of notches that compromise fatigue life.
2Productivity
If automated robotic bending is implemented, then manual effort is reduced and precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic bending system is divided into distinct functional modules: a robotic arm for positioning, a motor-driven bending mechanism for applying force, a rod feeding subassembly for rod delivery, and a brake subassembly for securing the rod. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently while simplifying the overall system design and maintenance.
Solution Approach 2:
The robotic system integrates multiple functions into a single platform: the robotic arm handles both positioning and bending operations, the motor assembly provides both rotation and bending moment, and the brake subassembly serves both to secure the rod during bending and to control rod movement. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate devices and improves operational efficiency.
3Productivity
If traditional bending devices are used in the operation room, then the bending can be performed, but sterility maintenance becomes difficult and manual processes are inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual bending operations with an automated robotic system that can be sterilized or covered with sterile drapes. The robotic arm and bending mechanism are designed to operate within a sterile field, eliminating the need for manual contact with the rod and reducing the risk of contamination. The automated control system allows for precise bending operations without requiring the operator to be in direct contact with sterile components.
Data Source
AI summary
A robotic rod bender is disclosed. The robotic rod bender includes an autoclavable top assembly that includes a rod feeding subassembly, a brake subassembly, and a bending subassembly. The rod bending subassembly, the bending subassembly, and the brake assembly are disposed on a top plate. The robotic rod bender also includes a motor housing that includes one or more motors, a spline shaft, and a linear actuated elevator assembly. The linear actuated elevator assembly includes a linear actuator, a movable plate, and a mid-plate. The spine shaft extends from the moveable plate. The autoclavable top assembly is removably disposed atop the mid-plate.