Multi-Connector Surgical Tool Coupling Without Adapters
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing surgical tools often require multiple connection systems, leading to the need for adapters that can introduce delays and increase the complexity, weight, and cost of surgical kits.
Innovation Solution
A connection member that can mate with multiple types of connectors, such as Hudson, AO, and modified Trinkle connectors, allowing for a more compact and efficient surgical tool assembly by eliminating the need for adapters.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate connection systems are used for different surgical tools, then each tool can be securely connected to its specific component, but the surgical kit becomes more complex, heavier, and requires multiple adapters that increase procedure time
Solution Approach 1:
The connection member is designed with multiple connection features that can mate with different kinds of corresponding connectors (e.g., Hudson, AO, Trinkle systems). This universal design allows a single surgical tool to be compatible with multiple connection systems without requiring separate tools or adapters, directly resolving the contradiction between adaptability and complexity
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple connection features for different connector types are integrated into a single connection member. By combining what would traditionally require separate connection systems into one unified component, the patent eliminates the need for multiple adapters and reduces overall system complexity while maintaining compatibility with various connector types
2Adaptability or versatility
If adapters are used to connect tools with incompatible connection systems, then compatibility is achieved, but surgical procedure time increases due to the need to attach and detach adapters
Solution Approach 1:
The connection member directly mates with multiple connector types through its integrated connection features, eliminating the intermediate step of attaching adapters. This direct compatibility approach maintains adaptability while removing the time-consuming adapter attachment/detachment process from surgical procedures
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple connection systems are provided in the surgical kit, then all necessary connection types are available, but the weight and cost of the surgical kit increase
Solution Approach 1:
By equipping surgical tools with connection members that directly support multiple connector types, the patent eliminates the need to include multiple separate adapters in the surgical kit. This reduces both the weight and cost of the kit while maintaining comprehensive compatibility with different connection systems
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the need for multiple separate adapters from the surgical kit by integrating their functionality directly into the connection member. This removal of redundant components directly reduces kit weight and cost while preserving adaptability
Data Source
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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.