Wing Bolt Head Structure for Faster External Fixator Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current nuts and bolts used in External Bone Fixation devices are cumbersome and require multiple tools for assembly, making the process slow and inefficient, especially in emergency trauma situations.
Innovation Solution
Development of 'super bolts' and 'super nuts' with a novel head design featuring transverse wings, a tightening hole, a polygonal shaft, and a threaded hole or shaft, allowing for easier and quicker assembly with fewer tools, including the ability to be tightened with fingers, wrenches, or other implements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional nuts and bolts are used in External Bone Fixation devices, then the connection is secure and reliable, but the assembly process is slow and requires multiple specialized tools
Solution Approach 1:
The super wing bolt head integrates multiple functional elements: wings for manual rotation, a tightening slot for screwdriver engagement, a polygonal shaft for wrench attachment, and a perpendicular tightening hole for rod insertion. This multi-functional design allows a single fastener to be operated with various tools, eliminating the need for multiple specialized fastener types and reducing tool variety requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The bolt head is segmented into distinct functional zones: transverse wings for finger grip, a longitudinal tightening slot, a perpendicular tightening hole, and a polygonal shaft. Each segment serves a specific operational purpose, allowing different tools to engage with the appropriate segment. This segmentation enables versatile tool compatibility while maintaining a unified fastener design.
2Weight of moving object
If conventional bolts are used, then the structural integrity is maintained, but the weight of the fastening system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The bolt head incorporates a perpendicular tightening hole that passes through the head, creating a hollow or reduced-material structure. This design reduces the amount of material required for the bolt head while maintaining structural integrity through the strategic placement of the hole for tool engagement. The hollow structure decreases fastener weight without compromising the strength needed for bone fixation applications.
3Loss of time
If conventional nuts and bolts require specialized wrenches for installation, then the connection is secure, but the assembly time increases significantly in emergency situations
Solution Approach 1:
The bolt head is pre-configured with multiple engagement features (wings, slot, hole, polygonal shaft) that anticipate various tool types. This preliminary preparation allows the installer to quickly select and engage the most convenient tool without needing to search for or prepare specialized equipment. The pre-integrated features enable immediate action with commonly available tools, reducing assembly time in emergency trauma situations.
Solution Approach 2:
The bolt design enables self-service installation through the transverse wings that can be directly gripped and rotated by fingers. This eliminates the absolute requirement for external tools in certain installation scenarios, allowing medical personnel to quickly secure the fastener using only their hands if needed, while still providing options for tool-assisted installation when greater torque or precision is required.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a super wing nut bolt. The super wing holt comprises a head, two wings that extend transversely from opposite sides of the head, a tightening hole that passes perpendicular through the head between the two wings, a tightening slot in a first top surface of the head, a polygonal-sided shaft that extends downward from the head and a threaded hole that passes axially through the shaft.