Spacing-Adjustable Orthopedic Plate With Worm-Drive Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional mandibular fixation plates are difficult to adjust post-surgery due to changes in mandible position caused by growth rate and chewing habits, requiring re-fastening of screws for precise positioning.
Innovation Solution
A spacing-adjustable bone orthopedic apparatus with a locking screw mechanism, featuring saw teeth engagement and a worm drive system, allowing for precise adjustment of bone fragment positions using a motor or manual tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the position of the conventional fixation plate is adjusted, then the positioning accuracy is improved, but the operational complexity increases because screws must be released and re-fastened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by designing the through-hole with a variable cross-sectional shape that transitions from a first shape (allowing screw insertion) to a second shape (preventing screw removal). This dynamic geometric transformation enables the hole to adapt its function during different operational stages, allowing position adjustment while maintaining screw retention without requiring complete disassembly and reassembly
2Adaptability or versatility
If the fixation plate is designed with fixed positioning, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability worsens because it cannot accommodate post-surgery position changes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the parameter changes principle by varying the cross-sectional geometry parameter of the through-hole along its length. The hole has a first cross-sectional shape at one end and a second cross-sectional shape at the other end, creating a gradient parameter change that enables different functional behaviors at different positions, thereby achieving adaptability without adding complex mechanical components
3Measurement precision
If screws are repeatedly fastened and unfastened for position adjustment, then the positioning accuracy is improved, but the time consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the preliminary action principle by pre-designing the through-hole geometry to inherently control screw retention. The variable cross-sectional shape is predetermined during manufacturing to automatically retain the screw after position adjustment, eliminating the need for time-consuming manual fastening and unfastening operations during the adjustment process
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables easy and precise adjustment of bone fragment positions post-surgery, maintaining optimal alignment and stability with minimal disruption.
Implementation Method 1
A spacing-adjustable bone orthopedic apparatus with a locking screw mechanism, featuring saw teeth engagement and a worm drive system, allowing for precise adjustment of bone fragment positions using a motor or manual tools.
Implementation Method 2
outer circumferential surface saw teeth are formed on an outer circumferential surface of the screw head
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a spacing-adjustable bone orthopedic apparatus. The apparatus may include a plate including a main body and a through portion having a predetermined length and formed to pass through the main body and a locking screw which is inserted into the through portion, which includes a screw body and a screw head which are capable of being coupled to each other, and in which outer circumferential surface saw teeth are formed on an outer circumferential surface of the screw head.