Spinal Stabilization Bonding Cavity Reduces Torque
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current spinal stabilization systems require high torque and multiple tools to secure spinal stabilization elements due to a small contact area between fasteners and spinal stabilization elements, leading to inefficiencies in installation and potential instability.
Innovation Solution
A spinal stabilization system that uses a fastener with a cradle portion, a body, and a cap to create a cavity for bonding with a spinal stabilization element, reducing the need for torque and utilizing a bonding material to enhance contact and stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If mechanical fasteners with small contact area are used to secure spinal stabilization elements, then the structural simplicity is maintained, but the required torque increases significantly and anti-torque tools are needed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical fastening system (set screws, nuts, and washers) with a bonding material-based system. The bonding material creates a chemical bond between the fastener and spinal stabilization element, eliminating the need for high-torque mechanical fastening and anti-torque tools.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from line contact (mechanical fastener contact) to surface contact (bonding material interface). The bonding material spreads across the interface between the fastener and spinal stabilization element, increasing the contact area from a narrow line to a broader surface area, thereby distributing the bonding force more effectively.
2Reliability
If high torque is applied to secure mechanical fasteners, then the spinal stabilization element is held firmly, but additional personnel and anti-torque tools are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical fastening system requiring high torque application with a bonding material system that cures to provide secure attachment. This substitution eliminates the need for anti-torque tools and reduces the skill level and number of personnel required during installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the bonding mechanism from mechanical (torque-based) to chemical (curing-based). The bonding material undergoes a parameter change from liquid/gel state to solid state through curing, providing progressive and secure attachment without requiring high-torque application or specialized tools.
3Strength
If set screws or nuts are used to fasten spinal stabilization elements, then the connection is mechanically secure, but the contact area is limited to the diameter of the fastener
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from line contact (mechanical fastener contact) to surface contact (bonding material interface). The bonding material spreads across the interface between the fastener and spinal stabilization element, increasing the contact area from a narrow line to a broader surface area, thereby distributing the bonding force more effectively.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges the fastener and spinal stabilization element through a bonding material interface, creating a unified bonded construct. The bonding material acts as an intermediary that combines the two components into a single integrated assembly with distributed stress across the bonding interface.
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
This approach minimizes the need for torque tools, allows for fewer personnel during installation, and provides greater contact area for secure bonding, resulting in improved spinal stabilization.
Implementation Method 1
a bonding material, such as a curable adhesive, disposed within the cavity
Data Source
AI summary
Spinal stabilization systems and the assembly, interconnection, and use of such systems are described which provide stabilization of vertebrae in the spine. Devices and methods of the invention may be used to attach a bone engaging element such as a fastener to a spinal stabilization element such as a rod or a cord by bonding with a bonding material. A spinal stabilization system of the invention may include a fastener with a connector portion, a spinal stabilization element, and a body. The body encloses a portion of the fastener and a spinal stabilization element to create a cavity. A bonding material may be applied to the cavity to bond a portion of the fastener with a portion of the spinal stabilization element. The system may also include cap to close the cavity.