Vertebral Rod Assembly Adjustable Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vertebral rod systems lack the ability to adjust and lock members at various angles to conform to the curvature of the spine effectively, limiting their ability to provide optimal support and positioning of vertebrae.
Innovation Solution
A vertebral rod assembly comprising first and second members that can rotate relative to each other about a first axis, with a locking mechanism using a fastener and splines to secure the members at desired orientations, allowing for adjustable positioning along the spine.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If vertebral rod systems use fixed rigid connections between rods, then structural stability is improved, but the ability to conform to spine curvature is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The connection between vertebral rods transitions from a fixed rigid state to a dynamically adjustable state. The locking mechanism allows the system to switch between locked (fixed) and unlocked (adjustable) states, enabling the rods to conform to different spine curvatures while maintaining stability when locked.
Solution Approach 2:
The vertebral rod system is divided into separable components (first rod, second rod, locking mechanism) that can be independently positioned and then connected. This segmentation allows each rod to be adjusted to specific angles before being locked together, enabling customization to match the patient's spine curvature.
2Adaptability or versatility
If vertebral rod systems allow angular adjustment between members, then adaptability to spine curvature is improved, but structural stability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The connection between vertebral rods transitions from a fixed rigid state to a dynamically adjustable state. The locking mechanism allows the system to switch between locked (fixed) and unlocked (adjustable) states, enabling the rods to conform to different spine curvatures while maintaining stability when locked.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism serves as an intermediary component between the first and second rods. It provides a controlled transition state during adjustment and then secures the rods in the desired angular position, maintaining both adjustability and stability.
3Stability of the object's composition
If a locking mechanism is added to secure rod positions, then structural stability is improved, but device complexity is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is designed to be self-contained and self-securing. Once the rods are positioned at the desired angle, the locking mechanism automatically secures them in place without requiring additional components or complex procedures, simplifying the overall system while maintaining stability.
4Stability of the object's composition
If multiple fasteners are used to lock members, then position stability is improved, but ease of operation is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The locking function is extracted as a separate, dedicated mechanism rather than being integrated into the rod structure itself. This allows the locking action to be performed independently through a single fastener, simplifying the adjustment process while ensuring stable positioning.
Data Source
AI summary
A vertebral rod assembly comprises first and second members (12, 14) that may rotate about a first axis (Rl). Each of the first and second members includes a base (18, 36) and a vertebral support rod (16, 34) extending from the base. An extension (24, 26) extends from the base (18) on the first member (12) into an opening (40, 74) formed in the base (36) of the second section (14). A fastener (44) extends through the base of the second member to lock the first and second members, and to prevent the rotation of the first member and second member.