Self-locking Orthopedic Adapter with Internal Ball Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing orthopedic tool adapters have exposed components that are prone to damage and require complex locking mechanisms, making them difficult to clean, sterilize, and use in confined body spaces.
Innovation Solution
A self-locking internal adapter with a plurality of securing ball mechanisms and chamfered surfaces that centrally stabilize orthopedic tools, featuring a shaft driver assembly with guiding chamfers to securely engage and release tools with minimal exposed components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional locking mechanisms are used in adapters, then tool securing is achieved, but device complexity increases and exposed components are damaged easily
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter employs a self-locking mechanism where spring-loaded balls automatically engage with grooves on the tool shaft when the tool is inserted. The system self-regulates through spring force, requiring no manual operation or complex external locking components. This resolves the contradiction by achieving reliable tool securing through automatic engagement while minimizing device complexity and exposed components.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple exposed components are used in the adapter, then tool adaptation is achieved, but cleaning and sterilization difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter integrates multiple functions into a unified structure: the housing contains both the tool receiving chamber and the locking mechanism, the shaft driver assembly combines guiding chamfers with securing ball engagement, and the spring-loaded balls serve both as locking elements and positioning features. This merging reduces the number of separate exposed components, making cleaning and sterilization easier while maintaining tool adaptability across different surgical instruments.
3Volume of moving object
If compact adapter design is used, then space for surgery is reduced, but tool engagement security may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter employs a nested structure where the shaft driver assembly is positioned within the housing, securing balls are contained within the housing, and the spring mechanism is integrated into the same space. This nesting arrangement achieves compact adapter dimensions suitable for confined surgical spaces while maintaining reliable tool engagement through the distributed locking points provided by multiple securing balls engaging with the tool shaft grooves.
Data Source
AI summary
An internal adapter for use in handles for interchangeable orthopedic tools contains a collar assembly, house assembly, retaining ring, spring and driver assembly. A plurality of securing ball mechanisms releasably secure an orthopedic tool in the adapter, while a configuration of chamfered surfaces centrally stabilize the tool. A plurality of guiding chamfers located in a shaft driver assembly rotationally secures the orthopedic tool.