Multi-Connector Surgical Tool Connection Member Without Adapters
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Solution Overview
Problem
Surgical tools often require multiple connection systems, leading to the need for adapters, which can cause delays and increase the complexity, weight, and cost of surgical kits.
Innovation Solution
A connection member with multiple connection features that can mate with different kinds of connectors, such as Hudson, AO, and modified Trinkle connectors, allowing for a single tool to be compatible with various systems without adapters, thus simplifying the surgical kit and reducing its weight and cost.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple connection systems are provided for different connectors, then compatibility with various connection systems is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connection member is designed with multiple connection features that can mate with different kinds of connectors (e.g., Hudson, AO, Trinkle connectors), allowing a single tool to be compatible with various connection systems without requiring separate tools for each system
2Adaptability or versatility
If adapters are used to connect different connection systems, then compatibility is achieved, but loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts and integrates the adapter function directly into the connection member by incorporating multiple connection features in different regions of the same component, eliminating the need for separate adapter tools and enabling direct connection to different connector types
Solution Approach 2:
The connection member is designed as a universal interface that can directly mate with multiple types of connectors (Hudson, AO, Trinkle), allowing surgeons to switch between different connection systems without using adapters, thus reducing procedural delays
3Device complexity
If multiple connection features are integrated into one connection member, then device complexity is reduced, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The connection member is segmented into different regions, with each region containing connection features designed for specific connector types. This segmentation allows for standardized manufacturing of each region while maintaining overall compatibility across different connection systems
Data Source
AI summary
A connection member for connecting a surgical tool to a plurality of different kinds of corresponding connector. A surgical tool including the connection member. A surgical kit including the surgical tool. The connection member includes an elongate shaft having a longitudinal axis, a proximal end and a distal end. The connection member also includes a plurality of connection features located at the proximal end of the shaft. The plurality of connection features includes at least one connection feature for mating with a first kind of corresponding connector. The plurality of connection features also includes at least one connection feature for mating with a second, different kind of corresponding connector. The connection member may be a male connection member and the corresponding connectors may be female. A method including providing the surgical tool and connecting the connection member to a corresponding connector.