Vertebral Fixing Device with Adjustable Passage for Multiple Rod Gauges
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for stabilizing vertebrae require multiple versions to accommodate different rod gauges, increasing complexity and production costs, while limiting flexibility in accommodating various support member sizes.
Innovation Solution
A fixing device with a main body comprising pivotable members and a clamping mechanism that adjusts the passage size to fit different gauges, allowing for intraoperative adjustment and simultaneous clamping of both the support member and flexible member.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple versions of the device are provided to accommodate different rod gauges, then the device can fit various support member sizes, but the device complexity and production costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The device is designed with a universal main body structure that can accommodate multiple rod gauges through a single device type. The passage dimensions are made adjustable rather than fixed, allowing one device to perform multiple functions of fitting different rod sizes without requiring separate device versions for each gauge.
Solution Approach 2:
The device incorporates dynamic adjustment capabilities through movable members that can change the passage dimensions. The second member is pivotable with respect to the first member, and the clamping mechanism can move members towards each other, enabling the passage size to be adjusted intraoperatively to match different rod gauges rather than being static.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple versions of the device are provided to accommodate different rod gauges, then the device can fit various support member sizes, but production costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
By designing a single universal device version that can accommodate multiple rod gauges through adjustable passage dimensions, the production cost is reduced compared to manufacturing multiple specialized device versions. The main body structure remains the same, and only the adjustment mechanism needs to be produced, simplifying the manufacturing process.
3Device complexity
If the passage size is fixed in the device, then the device structure is simpler, but the device cannot accommodate various support member gauges
Solution Approach 1:
The device transforms from a static structure with fixed passage dimensions to a dynamic structure where the passage size can be adjusted. The pivotable second member and movable clamping mechanism enable the passage dimensions to change, providing adaptability to different rod gauges while maintaining relatively simple structural elements.
Data Source
AI summary
A device for fixing a bony structure to a support member. The device includes a main body with first and second members, the second member being movable in rotation with respect to the first member, around a first axis. A flexible member passes between the members and forms a loop around a bony structure. A clamping mechanism moves the first and second members into a clamping position. A support member and the flexible member are secured between the members in the clamping position. The first axis is movable in translation along a first direction and the second member is movable in translation along the first direction. The clamping mechanism cooperates with the first and second members to move the second member in translation in the first direction.