Spring-Loaded Crosslink Locking Mechanism for Spinal Fusion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current crosslink locking mechanisms in spinal fusion surgery are slow and inconvenient, requiring manual turning of knobs or bolts to lock rotational freedom, which hinders the speed and efficiency of spinal alignment procedures.
Innovation Solution
A crosslink mechanism featuring spring-loaded locking clips with interlocking teeth that compress to allow rotation and then automatically lock when released, eliminating the need for secondary tightening and enabling faster locking of rotational motion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional crosslink locking mechanisms use knobs or bolts to lock rotational freedom, then the locking function is achieved, but the operation speed and convenience are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The spring-loaded locking mechanism automatically locks the crosslink to the pedicle screw when the compression force is applied, eliminating the need for manual knob or bolt turning. The spring forces the locking surface against the pedicle screw head, creating self-locking action that improves both operational convenience and procedural speed
Solution Approach 2:
The invention removes the secondary tightening components (knobs, bolts, or screws) from the crosslink locking mechanism, retaining only the essential compression function. This extraction of unnecessary components simplifies the locking action to a single compression movement, significantly improving operation speed and convenience
2Reliability
If manual knob or bolt turning is required to lock the crosslink, then secure locking is achieved, but the procedure time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The spring-loaded mechanism provides automatic locking upon compression, eliminating the time-consuming manual tightening process. The spring continuously applies locking force to maintain secure engagement without requiring secondary tightening operations
Solution Approach 2:
The spring is pre-loaded to automatically apply locking force as soon as compression is initiated. This preliminary action ensures that locking security is achieved immediately during the compression process, without requiring additional time for separate tightening steps
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
Facilitates faster and more convenient locking of rotational freedom during spinal alignment procedures, enhancing the speed and efficiency of spinal fusion surgeries by allowing for quick and secure engagement of crosslink mechanisms without manual knob or bolt turning.
Implementation Method 1
spring-loaded locking clips with interlocking teeth that compress to allow rotation and then automatically lock when released
Data Source
AI summary
A crosslink mechanism features a locking clip with interlocking teeth. When being deployed, the surgeon will compress the spring loaded clips, freeing rotation on both sides of the mechanism. Once clipped onto the sequential reducers, the surgeon releases the clips allowing the spring to lock the teeth and therefore lock rotational freedom out of the mechanism.