Spinal Locking Cap Dispenser with Counterbalance
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for securing spinal fixation devices are time-consuming and prone to 'blowout' due to the need for manual handling and balancing of torque when applying locking caps, which can lead to instrument complexity and increased trauma to the bone.
Innovation Solution
A locking cap dispenser apparatus that allows for the simultaneous handling and application of multiple locking caps, using a magazine system to load and dispense caps efficiently, reducing the need for additional instruments and minimizing torque-related complications.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual handling and application of locking caps is used, then flexibility in application is maintained, but time consumption increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The locking cap dispenser divides the locking cap storage and application system into multiple segments: a magazine holding multiple locking caps, a dispenser mechanism for sequential release, and a counterbalance mechanism for torque control. This segmentation allows automated sequential application of multiple locking caps without manual handling between each cap, significantly reducing time while maintaining operational flexibility through controlled dispensing.
2Strength
If torque is applied to locking caps to secure them, then fixation strength is improved, but risk of blowout increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking cap dispenser incorporates a counterbalance mechanism that applies opposite torque to counterbalance the driving torque applied to the locking cap. This counterbalancing mechanism prevents excessive torque accumulation that could cause blowout while maintaining sufficient fixation strength. The counterbalance mechanism works in conjunction with the drive mechanism to control the net torque applied to the locking cap and rod receiving head, thereby reducing bone trauma risk.
3Reliability
If additional instruments are used to apply countertorque, then blowout risk is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking cap dispenser merges the drive mechanism for applying torque to the locking cap with the counterbalance mechanism for applying opposite torque. Instead of requiring separate instruments for driving and counterbalancing, the dispenser integrates both functions into a single device. The drive mechanism and counterbalance mechanism are combined in one instrument, reducing the number of tools needed while maintaining reliable protection against blowout through coordinated torque application.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
An apparatus for dispensing a plurality of locking caps including a barrel and a magazine. The barrel has a longitudinal passage extending through the barrel and a lateral passage extending through the barrel and intersecting the longitudinal passage. A second open end of the barrel is configured to engage a rod receiving head to which one of the locking caps is threadingly connectable. The magazine has a housing with a chamber for receiving a plate carrying a plurality of locking caps. The chamber of the housing is aligned with the lateral passage of the barrel so that the plate is movable from the chamber into the lateral passage so that one of the locking caps is positioned in the longitudinal passage so as to be matingly engageable with a drive tool insertable through the longitudinal passage.