Surgical Fastener Caddy with Dynamic Flaps
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional surgical screw racks with movable covers are prone to dislodging screws when dropped, requiring complete re-sterilization, and lack convenient access during surgery.
Innovation Solution
A caddy with internal passages and releasable flaps that hold surgical fasteners securely, allowing easy access and sterilization without separate containers, featuring a flexible sheet with movable flaps that secure the screws in place even if the caddy is dropped.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional surgical screw racks with movable covers are used, then the screws are protected from falling, but the screws become difficult to access during surgery and may become dislodged if dropped
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic flaps that can move between a closed position (when the caddy is stationary) to prevent screw removal, and an open position (when the caddy is shaken or inverted during surgery) to allow easy screw access. This dynamic mechanism resolves the contradiction between secure holding and ease of access.
Solution Approach 2:
The flaps are pre-positioned to automatically cover the screw holes when the caddy is in normal position, preventing accidental dislodgement. When the caddy is inverted or shaken during surgery, the flaps automatically open, providing preliminary preparation for easy screw access without requiring manual intervention.
2Reliability
If surgical screw racks with separate sterilization containers are used, then sterilization can be performed, but the process becomes more complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the sterilization chamber directly into the caddy structure itself, eliminating the need for separate sterilization containers. The caddy can be directly placed in an autoclave, combining the storage and sterilization functions into a single unit, thereby reducing complexity and saving time.
Solution Approach 2:
The caddy is designed to serve multiple functions: it acts as both a storage container for screws and a sterilization chamber. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate sterilization equipment, simplifying the overall process while maintaining reliable sterilization capability.
3Reliability
If surgical screw racks with movable covers are used, then the screws are contained, but complete re-sterilization is required if the rack is dropped
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs impact-absorbing materials and structural design elements within the caddy that cushion drops and shocks, protecting the screws from dislodgement. This beforehand cushioning prevents the need for re-sterilization by maintaining screw security even during accidental drops, thereby saving time.
Solution Approach 2:
The caddy incorporates disposable or replaceable internal components (such as flap mechanisms or protective inserts) that can be easily replaced if damaged during drops, rather than requiring complete re-sterilization of the entire system. This approach maintains sterility efficiently while minimizing time loss.
Data Source
AI summary
A universal surgical screw caddy. An enclosure includes a cover secured to a frame. A flexible sheet is located between an affixed to the cover and frame. A plurality of holes formed in the cover allow the surgical screws to be inserted into the caddy past a plurality of movable portions of the flexible sheet releasably holding the screws in the caddy.