Ultrasonic Bone Density Measurement System for Orthopedic Implants
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current orthopedic joint replacement procedures lack precision in accommodating individual patient variations, relying heavily on surgical skill and lacking real-time data for optimal implantation and long-term monitoring of joint health.
Innovation Solution
An ultrasonic measurement system utilizing ultrasonic transducers, waveguides, and propagation tuned oscillators (PTOs) or Phase Locked Loops (PLLs) to measure physical parameters such as force, pressure, and wear by detecting changes in transit time of ultrasonic waves, providing real-time data for precise implantation and post-operative monitoring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional orthopedic joint replacement procedures are used, then the procedure can be standardized to meet general needs, but individual patient variations cannot be accurately accommodated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical measurement methods with ultrasonic wave-based measurement. Ultrasonic transducers emit acoustic waves that travel through bone tissue, and the transit time of these waves is measured to determine bone density and other physical parameters. This acoustic field-based approach provides non-contact, high-precision measurement that can capture individual patient variations without requiring complex mechanical instrumentation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent measures changes in ultrasonic wave transit time as bone density and physical parameters change. By monitoring the transit time of ultrasonic waves through the bone, the system detects variations in bone density, elasticity, and other physical properties. This parameter-based measurement approach enables real-time assessment of individual patient characteristics, allowing surgeons to adapt the implantation procedure to specific patient needs rather than relying on standardized procedures.
2Loss of information
If surgical skill alone is relied upon for joint replacement, then the procedure can be performed with available tools, but real-time data for optimal implantation is lacking
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback system where ultrasonic transducers continuously measure bone physical parameters during the implantation procedure. The measurement system provides real-time data about bone density, elasticity, and other parameters to the surgeon, enabling informed decision-making during the procedure. This feedback loop eliminates the information gap that exists when relying solely on surgical skill, as surgeons now have objective, real-time measurements to guide their techniques.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an ultrasonic measurement system as an intermediary between the surgeon and the patient's bone structure. Rather than the surgeon directly assessing bone properties through tactile feedback alone, the ultrasonic system acts as a mediator that translates physical bone properties into measurable transit time data. This intermediary provides objective, quantifiable information that complements surgical skill and enables more precise implantation decisions.
3Duration of action of stationary object
If standardized tools and procedures are used, then the procedure can meet general population needs, but long-term monitoring of joint health is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables continuous monitoring of joint health by implanting ultrasonic transducers that remain in place with the joint replacement. These transducers continuously measure physical parameters such as bone density, stress, and strain over the long term, providing ongoing data about joint performance and patient recovery. This continuous measurement capability extends far beyond the implantation procedure itself, allowing for lifelong monitoring of joint health and early detection of potential issues.
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
Enables accurate and consistent measurement of physical parameters during orthopedic surgeries, ensuring optimal joint alignment and longevity by providing real-time feedback to surgeons and long-term data for improved joint design and maintenance.
Implementation Method 1
an ultrasonic measurement system utilizing ultrasonic transducers, waveguides, and propagation tuned oscillators (PTOs) or Phase Locked Loops (PLLs) to measure physical parameters such as force, pressure, and wear by detecting changes in transit time of ultrasonic waves
Data Source
AI summary
A measurement system for capturing a transit time, phase, or frequency of energy waves propagating through a propagation medium is disclosed. The measurement system comprises a compressible waveguide (403), ultrasonic transducers (405, 406), and circuitry to sustain energy wave propagation in the waveguide (403). The circuitry includes a propagation tuned oscillator (404), a digital counter (409), a pulse generator (410), a phase detector (414), a counter (420), a digital timer (422), and a data register (424). The measurement system employs a continuous mode (CM), pulse mode, or pulse-echo mode of operation to evaluate propagation characteristics of continuous ultrasonic waves in the waveguide by way of closed-loop feedback to determine levels of applied forces on the waveguide.