Ultrasonic Joint Alignment Detection via Transit Time
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current orthopedic joint replacement procedures lack precise methods for ensuring proper fitting and alignment of prosthetic components, leading to potential misalignment, wear, and costly revisions, which can be minimized with early detection of implant issues.
Innovation Solution
An ultrasonic measurement system using a propagation tuned oscillator (PTO) or Phase Locked Loop (PLL) with zero-crossing or edge-detect receivers to measure physical parameters like force, pressure, and wear by evaluating changes in transit time of ultrasonic waves through a waveguide, providing real-time data for optimal joint alignment and longevity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If standardized orthopedic joint replacement procedures are used to meet general population needs, then the procedure can be widely applied, but manufacturing precision and measurement precision of prosthetic component fitting and alignment deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by measuring physical parameters (force, pressure, wear, alignment) of the implanted joint in situ and using these measurements to adjust and optimize the fitting and alignment of prosthetic components. This allows customization of the standardized procedure for individual patient needs while maintaining wide applicability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical measurement methods with ultrasonic wave propagation measurements. By using ultrasonic waves to measure transit time through the prosthetic components and surrounding tissue, the system achieves high-precision measurement without complex mechanical gauges or invasive procedures.
2Device complexity
If traditional mechanical measurement methods are used for prosthetic alignment, then the measurement process is simple, but measurement precision and detection accuracy of component wear and misalignment deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes mechanical measurement systems with an ultrasonic wave-based measurement system. Ultrasonic transducers emit waves that propagate through the prosthetic components, and the transit time measurements provide precise data on alignment and wear without requiring complex mechanical contact measurements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces ultrasonic waves as an intermediary medium to measure properties of the prosthetic joint. The waves pass through the components and surrounding tissue, carrying information about alignment, wear, and mechanical properties that can be extracted from transit time variations.
3Reliability
If prosthetic component issues are detected early using precise measurement, then component reliability and joint function are improved, but device complexity and measurement system complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the implanted joint to essentially measure its own condition by utilizing the natural propagation of ultrasonic waves through its components. The in situ measurements of force, pressure, wear, and alignment are obtained without requiring external complex measurement apparatus, as the joint itself becomes part of the measurement system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback by continuously or periodically measuring the physical parameters of the implanted joint and using this information to detect wear, misalignment, or other issues early. This feedback loop allows for timely intervention and adjustment to maintain optimal joint function and reliability.
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, real-time measurement of prosthetic component alignment and wear, reducing the risk of misalignment and costly revisions by providing quantitative data for improved joint function and extended implant life.
Implementation Method 1
An ultrasonic measurement system using a propagation tuned oscillator (PTO) or Phase Locked Loop (PLL) with zero-crossing or edge-detect receivers to measure physical parameters like force, pressure, and wear by evaluating changes in transit time of ultrasonic waves through a waveguide
Data Source
AI summary
An orthopedic implant having a three-axis accelerometer is disclosed. The three-axis accelerometer is used to detect micro-motion in the implant. The micro-motion can be due to loosening of the implant. The implant is configured to couple to the muscular-skeletal system. In one embodiment, the implant is configured to couple to bone. An impact force is imparted to the bone or implant. The impact force can be provided via a transducer coupled to the implant. In the example, the impact force is imparted along a single axis. The three-axis accelerometer measures the impact force along each axis. Resultant peaks of the quantitative measurement and the frequencies at which they occur are measured. The peaks and frequencies of the measurements correspond to micro-motion. Typically, the frequency of interest is less than 1 KHz to determine if micro-motion is occurring.