Strut Controller Module for Manual and Infinitesimal Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing external fixation systems for bone deformities lack ease and precision in strut adjustments, particularly in manual and automated modes, and there is a need for improved control over infinitesimal length changes during the distraction osteogenesis process.
Innovation Solution
An external fixation system with adjustable length struts and controller modules that allow for both manual and automated operation, featuring a strut knob that can be rotated in discrete increments or maintained in a position for infinitesimal adjustments, and a controller module with a motor to drive these changes, ensuring stable construction and precise length adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If manual actuation is used to adjust strut length, then the system is simpler and easier to manufacture, but the adjustment precision is limited to discrete increments
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between manual and automated modes based on operational needs. The strut adjustment mechanism transitions from discrete incremental adjustments (manual mode) to continuous infinitesimal adjustments (automated mode with motorized actuator), allowing the device to adapt its precision and complexity level to the specific task requirements
Solution Approach 2:
The strut assembly is designed to support both manual and automated operation through a universal interface. The actuator can function in either manual mode (where the user directly operates the adjustment mechanism) or automated mode (where the motorized actuator provides precise control), eliminating the need for separate strut types and simplifying inventory management
2Measurement precision
If automated mode with controller modules is used, then adjustment precision is improved to infinitesimal increments, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The automated controller module operates autonomously to adjust strut lengths with infinitesimal precision, eliminating the need for manual intervention. The system self-regulates the adjustment process, providing consistent precise control while reducing user error and fatigue associated with manual operation of discrete increment mechanisms
3Quantity of substance
If the same struts are used for both manual and automated operation, then inventory is simplified, but the mechanism must accommodate both modes which increases design complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The strut assembly incorporates a universal actuator interface that accepts both manual operation and automated motorized actuation. This multi-functional design allows a single strut type to serve both manual and automated modes, simplifying inventory while the modular interface architecture manages the inherent design complexity through standardized connection points and control protocols
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 system provides precise and stable adjustments of bone positions, enabling accurate correction of deformities with ease, whether manually or automatically, reducing user error and enhancing the precision of the distraction osteogenesis process.
Implementation Method 1
Each controller module may include a motor configured to rotate the controller gear
Implementation Method 2
The actuator of each strut may include a strut knob and a strut gear, the strut knob being translatable relative to the strut gear between a first axial position relative to the strut gear and a second axial position relative to the strut gear
Data Source
AI summary
An external fixation system may include first and second fixation rings and a plurality of adjustable length struts. Each adjustable length strut may have two joints, a rod, a tube, and an actuator configured to drive the rod axially relative to the tube to change an effective length of the strut. The system may include a plurality of controller modules each configured to couple to a corresponding strut. The external fixation system may have a manual mode of operation in which the controller modules are not coupled to the struts, and manual actuation of the actuators changes the effective lengths of the struts in discrete length increments. The external fixation system may have an automated mode of operation in which the controller modules are coupled to the struts, and automated actuation of the actuators changes the effective lengths of the struts in infinitesimally small length increments.