Snap-Fit Bone Fixation Plate Targeting Device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current targeting devices for fixing bone fragments at fractures require complex detachment procedures using screw drivers, which complicates the surgical process and increases the number of operation steps.
Innovation Solution
A targeting device with an elongated body featuring snap-fitting means to removably attach a fixation plate, allowing for easier handling and reduced steps in attaching and detaching the fixation plate, and functioning as a retractor, guide, and fixation plate pusher.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a plate screw is used to attach the fixation plate to the targeting device, then the fixation plate can be securely attached, but the detachment procedure becomes complex and requires a screw driver
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment mechanism is segmented into a plate screw for secure attachment and a plate screw hole for tool-free detachment. The plate screw can be independently removed without requiring detachment of the entire fixation plate from the targeting device, simplifying the detachment procedure while maintaining secure attachment during use.
Solution Approach 2:
The plate screw is extracted as a separate, removable component from the fixation plate assembly. This allows the plate screw to be independently removed through the plate screw hole, enabling easy detachment of the attachment mechanism while the fixation plate remains attached to the targeting device via the snap-fitting means.
2Reliability
If multiple operation steps are required for attaching and detaching the fixation plate, then secure fixation is achieved, but the surgical process becomes time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The plate screw hole is pre-configured in the fixation plate during manufacturing, allowing for rapid attachment and detachment of the plate screw without requiring additional drilling or preparation steps during surgery. This preliminary preparation significantly reduces surgical time while maintaining reliable fixation.
Solution Approach 2:
The plate screw is extracted as a separate component that can be quickly attached and detached independently from the fixation plate itself. This separation allows the main fixation plate to remain securely attached to the targeting device via snap-fitting means while the plate screw can be rapidly removed to detach the fixation plate from the bone fragment.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the fixation plate is securely attached to the targeting device, then stable fixation is maintained, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment system is segmented into two independent mechanisms: snap-fitting means for attaching the fixation plate to the targeting device body portion, and a plate screw with plate screw hole for attaching the fixation plate to the bone fragment. This segmentation allows each mechanism to be simple and independent, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining stable fixation throughout the surgical process.
Data Source
AI summary
A targeting device (100) for use in fixation of bone fragments at a bone fracture. The targeting device comprises an elongated body portion (110) comprising a first body end (111), an opposed second body end (112), and body through holes (113a, 113b, 113c) extending from the first body end to the second body end for guiding a respective fixation means (303; 303a, 303b, 303c) through the body portion. In its second body end the body portion is configured with a snap-fitting means (114) configured to removably attach a fixation plate (150) to the body portion such that fixation through holes (151) of the plate are located in line with a respective body through hole and, when in use, to provide a surface of the plate to abut a surface of an outer bone fragment for subsequent fixation of the plate to the fragment. The targeting device comprises further a bracket (120).