Variable Angle Fastener Driver With Interference Clutch Depth Limiting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current orthopedic fixation systems face challenges in achieving variable angle locking fixation, which is complex and prone to malfunctions during surgery, especially when accessing small bones, where the fastener can be driven too deep or at an inappropriate angle.
Innovation Solution
A fastener driver with a depth limiting mechanism featuring an interference type drive clutch and a replaceable drive tip that allows for variable angle insertion, preventing over-driving by disengaging when a predetermined depth is reached and accommodating various torque receiving recesses with interchangeable tips.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If variable angle locking fixation is implemented, then fixation flexibility and adaptability are improved, but device complexity and risk of malfunction increase
Solution Approach 1:
The fixation system is divided into separate modular components: a plate with threaded holes, a removable locking insert with torque driving recess, and a variable angle fastener with drive mechanism. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and simplifies the overall system by allowing the insert to be removed and replaced, reducing complexity while maintaining adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking insert serves multiple functions: it provides the torque driving recess for angle adjustment, engages with the threaded holes for secure fixation, and can be removed and replaced to accommodate different fasteners. This multi-functionality reduces the need for multiple specialized components, simplifying the overall system while maintaining variable angle capability.
2Reliability
If depth limiting mechanism is added to prevent over-driving, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The drive mechanism includes a depth-limiting feature that automatically disengages when the fastener reaches the predetermined depth. This self-service mechanism prevents over-driving without requiring external monitoring or control systems, maintaining reliability while minimizing added complexity through automatic operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The depth limiting mechanism is pre-configured with a stop feature that prevents the fastener from being driven beyond the safe depth before over-driving can occur. This beforehand protection ensures reliability by preventing damage before it happens, rather than requiring complex real-time monitoring systems.
3Ease of operation
If replaceable drive tip unit is implemented for variable angle access, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The drive tip unit is designed to be removable and replaceable, allowing the operator to dynamically adjust the drive configuration based on the specific surgical access requirements. This dynamic adaptability improves ease of operation in confined spaces while keeping the base driver unit simple and reusable.
Solution Approach 2:
The replaceable drive tip unit provides localized adaptation for specific access angles and fastener types, while the main driver body remains standardized. This local quality approach allows customization where needed without complicating the entire driver system, maintaining simplicity in the common components.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to an orthopedic fastener driver which can be used with a variable angle fixation system, and in particular in which the driver has a variable angle drive tip that is capable of screwing a fastener in an orthopedic plate assembly at a variable angle relative to the drive axis of the driver, and further wherein the driver has a drive mechanism including an interference clutch mechanism that disengages so as to limit the relative depth of the fastener in the plate assembly as to avoid driving the fastener or fastener assembly through the plate.