Spinal Fixation Device Taper Lock Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current spinal fixation devices are not inexpensive to manufacture and are not easy to use, which poses challenges in effectively addressing spinal conditions such as scoliosis that require corrective forces on the spine.
Innovation Solution
A spinal fixation device comprising a body portion with a stud and inner/outer housings, a ring member, and flexible upright arms that can be locked to securely connect spinal rods, allowing for easy assembly and secure attachment to vertebrae, featuring a taper lock mechanism for stability and flexibility in accommodating different rod sizes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If traditional spinal fixation devices are used, then secure attachment to vertebrae is achieved, but manufacturing cost increases and ease of use decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The fixation device is divided into modular components including a body portion, rod, and separate fixation elements (hooks or screws), allowing independent manufacturing and assembly of each component to reduce overall manufacturing complexity and cost while maintaining secure attachment capability
Solution Approach 2:
A locking mechanism serves as an intermediary element between the body portion and fixation elements, providing secure attachment through a simple locking action that ensures reliability without requiring complex manufacturing processes
2Ease of operation
If traditional spinal fixation devices are used, then secure attachment to vertebrae is achieved, but ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The device is segmented into distinct functional components that can be independently manipulated and assembled, allowing surgeons to attach each component separately to the spine and rod, thereby simplifying the surgical procedure and improving ease of operation
Solution Approach 2:
The fixation elements are pre-formed with specific geometries (hooks or screws) that are designed to engage with the spine or rod in a predetermined manner, eliminating the need for complex intraoperative adjustments and improving ease of use
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
The device is cost-effective, easy to use, and provides a secure and flexible means to connect spinal rods to vertebrae, facilitating effective spinal alignment and treatment by allowing for easy assembly and secure attachment.
Implementation Method 1
A ring member is positionable within each of the first and second annular grooves of the respective stud portion and inner housing to lock the inner housing to the body portion and to fixedly couple the outer housing to the stud portion
Implementation Method 2
The inner and outer housing may assume a first, unlocked position in which the upright arms are permitted to flex to receive a spinal rod, and a second, locked position in which the inner and outer housings are taper locked so that the upright arms grip the rod to secure the rod to the spinal fixation device
Data Source
AI summary
A spinal fixation device is provided. The spinal fixation device includes a body portion including a stud portion defining a first annular groove. An outer housing is positionable on the stud portion of the body portion. An inner housing defines a second annular groove and is positionable between the outer housing and the stud portion. A ring member is positionable within each of the first and second annular grooves of the respective stud portion and inner housing to lock the inner housing to the body portion and to fixedly couple the outer housing to the stud portion.