Spinal Connector Axial Force Transmission
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connectors for spinal column support devices require complex structures and multiple components to achieve a satisfactory combination of simplicity and effective clamping force, which can complicate handling and assembly.
Innovation Solution
The connector design guides the axial force through the transverse rod, simplifying the force transmission path and reducing the number of components needed. This design includes a resilient arm for easy clipping onto support rods and a clamping screw for generating the clamping force.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If an expansion sleeve is added around the clamping screw to clamp the transverse rod, then the clamping force on the transverse rod is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the clamping function for the transverse rod into the clamping screw itself. The screw head is designed with a bearing surface that directly contacts and clamps the transverse rod, eliminating the need for a separate expansion sleeve. This integration maintains effective clamping force while reducing the number of components.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamping screw is designed to perform multiple functions: it generates axial clamping force on the support rod through threading, and simultaneously provides radial clamping force on the transverse rod through its head bearing surface. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate components for each clamping function.
2Strength
If multiple separate components are used for clamping, then the clamping force distribution is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the transverse rod clamping function into the clamping screw head, the patent reduces the number of separate components that need to be assembled and handled. The screw itself becomes the universal clamping element, simplifying the assembly process while maintaining effective force distribution through its geometric design.
3Device complexity
If the connector uses fewer components, then the device complexity is reduced, but the reliability of coupling may worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple clamping functions into fewer components, specifically making the clamping screw perform both axial and radial clamping. This reduction in component count is compensated by optimizing the geometry of the screw head bearing surface to ensure reliable and stable coupling of the transverse rod.
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 simplifies the handling and assembly of the connector, reduces the number of components, and achieves a robust and secure coupling between support rods, enhancing the stability of spinal column support devices.
Implementation Method 1
a first part of the clamping region has a resilient arm... the resilient arm yielding and pressing back to its original position on account of its resilient mount
Implementation Method 2
the axial force is caused by screwing in said clamping screw
Implementation Method 3
force application means for generating an axial force that brings about the clamping force
Implementation Method 4
the axial force is guided through the transverse rod. Therefore, the transverse rod is part of the force transmission path, along which clamping by way of the application of force or establishing a rigid coupling
Data Source
AI summary
A connector for connecting two supporting rods of a spinal column supporting device, which rods are placed or are to be placed along a portion of spinal column. The connector includes a transverse rod, a first coupling that couples the transverse rod to a first one of the supporting rods and a second coupling that couples the transverse rod to the second one of the supporting rods. At least one of the couplings has a clamping region that clamps the supporting rod with a clamping force and a force application component for generating an axial force that produces the clamping force, in particular in the form of an axial tensioning screw, the axial force being caused by screwing in of the screw, and the axial force being directed through the transverse rod.