Skull Fixing Device with Integrated Retainer and Drain Channel
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing skull fixing devices are inconvenient in clinic operations due to the need for multiple tools for implantation and removal, lack of a drainage structure, and insecure engagement between implantation tools and nuts, leading to complications and inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
A skull fixing device with a lower fastening member and movable retainer assembly, utilizing a single implantation tool with opposite-threaded ends for easy assembly and disassembly, and incorporating a drain channel for fluid drainage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate parts (sleeve, bolt, nut) are used for skull fixing, then the device can be effectively positioned and protect the patient's head, but multiple tools (clamp device and wrenching tool) are required for implantation and removal, increasing operational complexity and time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the sleeve and nut into a single integrated retainer assembly that can be implanted and removed as one unit. The retainer assembly includes a body portion with a recess that receives the skull, and an integrated fastening mechanism with a single screw that secures the assembly to the skull, eliminating the need for separate sleeve and nut components and reducing the number of tools required.
Solution Approach 2:
The retainer assembly is designed to perform multiple functions within a single device: it provides skull support, positioning, and securing functions simultaneously. The single screw mechanism serves both as a fastening element and a removal feature, allowing the same tool to be used for both implantation and removal operations.
2Strength
If separate sleeve, bolt, and nut components are used, then the fixing device can securely hold the skull, but the implantation process requires sequential clamping and positioning of multiple parts, increasing procedure complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the sleeve and nut into a single retainer assembly with an integrated fastening system. The body portion provides the structural support and skull interface, while the integrated screw mechanism provides secure fixation, reducing three separate components (sleeve, bolt, nut) into two main components (retainer assembly and screw).
Solution Approach 2:
The retainer assembly is segmented into functional portions: a body portion with a recess for skull support, a fastening mechanism with a screw, and an integrated connection system. This segmentation allows each portion to perform its specific function while maintaining overall simplicity.
3Strength
If a traditional nut with top slot is used for screwing, then the nut can be rotated to induce clamping force, but an additional wrenching tool is required, making it necessary to use two different tools for implantation and tightening
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the clamping force generation mechanism and the rotation feature into a single integrated screw system. The screw has a head portion with a recess that can be engaged by a single tool for both rotation and tightening operations, eliminating the need for separate wrenching tools while maintaining effective clamping force generation through the screw thread engagement with the retainer assembly.
4Productivity
If projection-slot engagement is used between implantation tool and nut, then the tool can drive the nut to screw to the bolt, but the engagement is not secure and readily leads to separation during screwing, requiring re-positioning
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the driving engagement features directly into the screw head and retainer assembly structure. The screw head has a recess that provides positive engagement with the implantation tool, ensuring secure connection during rotation and tightening operations without risk of separation or misalignment.
5Device complexity
If no drainage structure is provided in the fixing device, then the device structure remains simple, but liquid accumulation occurs inside the patient's head requiring additional surgical intervention for drain tube insertion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a drainage channel and drain tube into the retainer assembly structure during the initial device design and implantation process. The drainage channel is pre-formed within the retainer assembly body, allowing cerebrospinal fluid to be diverted and drained through the integrated drain tube, preventing liquid accumulation and reducing the need for separate drainage procedures.
Data Source
AI summary
A skull fixing device includes at least a lower fastening member and a movable retainer assembly. The lower fastening member includes a thread rod having a first coupling section formed in an interior thereof. The movable retainer assembly includes at least an upper fastening member and a nut. The upper fastening member includes a sleeve section in which a first rotation section is formed. The nut is screwed to the threaded rod and has an upper end forming a first positioning section and has an outer surface forming a second rotation section mating the first rotation section. Also disclosed is a surgery tool that includes at least a outer barrel having a lower end forming a second positioning section engageable with the first positioning section and an inner guide rod having a lower end forming a second coupling section engageable with the first coupling section.