Spring-Loaded Jaw Clamp for Bone Pin Fixation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing clamping elements for multiple rod-shaped elements, such as bone pins, are slow to close due to the need for sequential tightening of screws, which complicates the stabilization process.
Innovation Solution
A clamping element with two jaws connected by spring elements, allowing for simple activation to separate and block pins, enabling faster clamping through the use of threaded elements and coil springs that bias the jaws to close automatically.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If multiple screws are used to close the clamping element, then the clamping force is sufficient, but the closing process becomes slow
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the static screw tightening process into a dynamic spring-driven closing mechanism. The spring elements automatically push the jaws together when the connecting element is inserted, eliminating the need for manual screw tightening and dramatically increasing closing speed while maintaining sufficient clamping force through the spring's elastic force.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the closing action from the screw mechanism and transfers it to independent spring elements. Each jaw has its own spring that provides the closing force, separating the clamping function from the screw tightening function and enabling faster operation.
2Reliability
If multiple screws and nuts are used to connect the jaws, then the connection is secure, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple separate components (screws, nuts, multiple connection points) into a single integrated connecting element that passes through both jaws. This single element simultaneously connects both jaws to the clamping element and serves as the activation mechanism for the spring-driven closing action, reducing component count while maintaining secure connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting element serves multiple functions: it connects the first jaw to the clamping element, connects the second jaw to the clamping element, and activates the spring elements to drive the closing action. This multi-functionality reduces the number of components needed while maintaining reliable connection.
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 quicker and easier manipulation of the clamping element, allowing for faster pin fixation and reducing the complexity of the clamping process while maintaining stability.
Implementation Method 1
A pair of spring elements each engaging an external surface of the first jaw member act to bias the first and second jaw members towards one another
Implementation Method 2
coil springs surrounding each of the threaded elements acting on an external surface of at least one of the first and second jaw members
Data Source
AI summary
A clamping element for the clamping of multiple rod-shaped elements has two opposing jaws, which have a number of corresponding grooves for the acceptance of a corresponding number of rod-shaped elements such as bone pins. Spring elements are provided, with which in the resting position the closed jaws are tensed, to hold the rod-shaped elements in position.