Spinal Connector With Tactile Feedback Locking Mechanism
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing spinal fixation systems are cumbersome and difficult to use, especially in minimally-invasive surgical techniques, for coupling multiple fixation elements or extending a previously-installed construct during revision surgeries, necessitating an improved connector that provides ease of use and stability.
Innovation Solution
A spinal connector that allows for coupling of two fixation elements with one or more degrees of freedom, featuring a locking mechanism that provides tactile and audible feedback, and includes a clamp with a stud portion and washer for secure engagement, enabling easy alignment and locking of the elements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If existing spinal fixation systems are used to couple multiple fixation elements, then the coupling function is achieved, but the system becomes cumbersome and difficult to use
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into distinct functional modules: a clamp portion for securing the second fixation element, a stud portion extending from the clamp, and a locking mechanism. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, simplifying the overall assembly process and improving ease of operation while maintaining coupling effectiveness
Solution Approach 2:
The stud portion extends through a mating feature that defines an opening, creating a nested arrangement where the stud is received within the opening. This nested configuration allows compact coupling of multiple fixation elements without increasing overall system complexity, enabling straightforward alignment and connection
2Stability of the object's composition
If a locking mechanism is added to lock degrees of freedom, then stability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is designed to lock the stud portion at specific angular orientations (e.g., 0°, 45°, 90°, 135°) relative to the clamp automatically as the connector is assembled. This self-locking capability provides inherent stability without requiring additional active components or complex control systems, maintaining simplicity while ensuring proper alignment and securing of fixation elements
Solution Approach 2:
The connector provides one or more degrees of freedom between the first and second fixation elements, allowing dynamic adjustment during installation. The locking mechanism then freezes these degrees of freedom in the desired position, providing stability when needed while maintaining operational flexibility during the coupling process
3Ease of operation
If tactile and audible feedback is provided during engagement, then ease of alignment is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector incorporates features that provide tactile feedback (physical sensation of engagement) and audible feedback (clicking or snapping sounds) when the stud portion is properly received within the mating feature opening and locked into place. This feedback mechanism gives surgeons immediate confirmation of correct alignment and secure coupling without requiring additional sensors or electronic components, maintaining manufacturing simplicity while significantly improving ease of alignment during minimally-invasive procedures
Data Source
AI summary
In some embodiments, a connector can be configured to couple a first fixation element (e.g., a first rod) to a second fixation element (e.g., a second rod). One or both of the first and second fixation elements can be included with the connector, or one or both can be separately provided. In some instances, at least one of the fixation elements is previously implanted in a patient. The connector can provide one or more degrees of freedom between the first and second fixation elements. The connector can also include a locking element configured to (1) lock one or more of the fixation elements to the connector, and (2) lock one or more of the degrees of freedom between the fixation elements. The connector can be configured to snap onto or otherwise engage a fixation element in a manner that provides tactile and/or audible feedback to the surgeon.