Segmented Orthopedic Rod Connector with Adjustable Wings
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current orthopedic implants for spinal correction lack versatility and adjustability, making it difficult for surgeons to achieve optimal positioning and stability of elongated support members, such as spinal rods, during surgical procedures.
Innovation Solution
A connecting apparatus with a central portion and angled wings, which can be adjusted and locked using a set screw mechanism, allowing for secure attachment to fixation elements like bone screws, enabling precise placement and orientation of spinal rods across vertebrae segments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If fixed configuration attaching devices are used to connect spinal rods to vertebrae, then the device structure is simple, but the surgeon cannot achieve optimal positioning and adjustability of the support member
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting apparatus is divided into a central portion and two separate wings that can be independently positioned. The wings are detachably connected to the central portion, allowing each wing to be independently adjusted to contact different vertebrae at optimal positions, thereby achieving precise positioning while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting apparatus transitions from a fixed configuration to an adjustable configuration. The wings can be moved relative to the central portion and locked at different positions, enabling the device to adapt to various spinal rod positions and vertebral configurations, thus improving adaptability without requiring complete redesign of the entire apparatus.
2Manufacturing precision
If adjustable connecting apparatus with multiple components is used to achieve optimal positioning, then positioning precision is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus is segmented into a central portion and two wings, where each component has a specific function. The central portion provides the locking mechanism and structural support, while the wings provide adjustable contact surfaces for vertebrae. This segmentation allows for precise positioning through coordinated adjustment of simple components rather than requiring a single complex mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The wings are pre-configured with channels and locking features that guide their attachment to the central portion. The set screw mechanism is pre-positioned to automatically engage with the wings, reducing the need for complex alignment procedures during surgery and simplifying the overall assembly process while maintaining positioning precision.
3Stability of the object's composition
If simple attaching devices are used to fix spinal rods, then the device is easy to manufacture, but the stability and support capability are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting apparatus merges multiple functions into a single integrated structure: the central portion combines the locking mechanism, structural support, and attachment interface for both wings. The wings themselves combine the vertebral contact surface and the positioning channel in one component. This merging provides stable attachment without requiring multiple separate manufacturing processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The central portion serves multiple functions: it provides structural support for the spinal rod, houses the set screw locking mechanism, and serves as the connection point for both wings. The wings simultaneously provide vertebral contact, positioning guidance, and attachment to the central portion. This multi-functionality achieves stable attachment while reducing the total number of components that would need to be manufactured separately.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
Connecting devices and elongated members for orthopedic medical use are disclosed. In certain embodiments, a connecting device may include a central portion that can accommodate part of an elongated member and wings for connecting to anchor members. Such central portions can be open or closed, and such wings can be solid, e.g. rod-type structures, or can be slotted. A T-shaped elongated member is also disclosed.