Spinal Rod Template Gap Elimination for Scale Visibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing rod templates for spinal fusion surgery suffer from reduced visibility of scale marks due to a gap between the core and outer tube, which affects the accuracy in determining the curvature and length of spinal rods.
Innovation Solution
A rod template with a metal core and a transparent silicone rubber outer tube, filled with liquid silicone rubber to eliminate the gap and enhance visibility of scale marks, improving light transmission and clarity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a gap exists between the core and outer tube, then the outer tube can accommodate the core easily, but the visibility of scale marks deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
A transparent filler material is introduced as an intermediary substance between the core and outer tube. This filler eliminates the gap while maintaining transparency, thus preserving both the ease of assembly and the visibility of scale marks through the outer tube
2Illumination intensity
If the outer tube is made transparent, then the visibility of scale marks improves, but the structural strength deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The outer tube is constructed from composite materials that combine transparency with structural strength. This allows the outer tube to maintain both its light-transmitting property for visibility and sufficient mechanical strength for protective function
3Illumination intensity
If the gap between core and outer tube is filled, then the visibility of scale marks improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The filler material integration merges the core and outer tube into a unified structure. By combining these components with the filler, the design achieves improved visibility while minimizing additional complexity through functional integration rather than adding separate systems
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 configuration significantly improves the visibility of scale marks, allowing for more accurate determination of spinal rod curvature and length, thereby enhancing the precision of spinal fusion surgeries.
Implementation Method 1
The outer tube is made of transparent material so that the scale marks on the core are visible through the outer tube. The filler is made of liquid silicone rubber and inserted in a gap between the outer tube and the core to fill the gap.
Data Source
AI summary
A rod template for determining a curvature and a length of a spinal rod used for joining vertebrae in a spine fusion surgery in advance includes a core, a transparent outer tube, and a transparent filler. The core is made of metal and includes a scale on a surface thereof. The outer tube is made of silicone rubber and covers the core. The filler is made of liquid silicone rubber and inserted in a gap between the outer tube and the core to fill the gap.