Wireless Digital Torque Wrench for Medical Implant Surgery
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current torque wrenches for dental and medical applications lack precision in torque measurement and do not allow for real-time data recording or wireless data transmission, leading to potential implant and prosthesis losses due to incorrect torque application.
Innovation Solution
A digital electronic torque wrench with miniaturized components and wireless technology that allows for real-time torque measurement and data transmission to an external console, enabling precise control and recording of torque data during surgical procedures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If mechanical torque wrenches are used, then the device structure is simple, but the measurement precision is low and data cannot be recorded
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical torque measurement systems with electronic sensors and digital data processing systems. The torque sensor electronically detects and measures torque values, converting mechanical force into electrical signals for precise measurement and digital recording, thereby achieving high measurement precision while maintaining reasonable device complexity through electronic substitution.
Solution Approach 2:
The torque wrench integrates multiple functions including torque measurement, data recording, wireless communication, and sterilization capability into a single device. The handle assembly serves both as a mechanical tool for applying torque and as a container for electronic components, enabling the device to perform multiple functions simultaneously without proportionally increasing complexity.
2Measurement precision
If electronic components are added to enable data recording, then measurement precision improves, but the device cannot withstand sterilization processes
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into two separable parts: the handle assembly containing electronic components and the working end. The handle assembly can be detached from the working end, allowing the electronic components to be protected during sterilization processes. This segmentation enables the sterile portion to undergo autoclaving while the electronic portion remains protected, resolving the contradiction between measurement precision and sterilization resistance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a sterile barrier or protective mechanism that allows the electronic components to be isolated from the sterilization environment. The detachable connection between the handle assembly and working end acts as an intermediary, enabling the transmission of torque data while preventing direct exposure of electronic components to high-temperature sterilization processes.
3Measurement precision
If data is stored locally in the device, then measurement precision is maintained, but data cannot be transmitted for external analysis
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces wireless communication modules (Bluetooth, Wi-Fi) as intermediaries between the local memory and external devices. These communication interfaces enable the transfer of precisely measured torque data from the device's local storage to external computers or mobile devices for further analysis, eliminating data loss while maintaining measurement precision through electronic data transmission.
4Ease of operation
If the device is made compact for surgical use, then ease of operation improves, but electronic components become vulnerable to damage
Solution Approach 1:
The device is segmented into a compact handle assembly containing protected electronic components and a separate working end. The handle assembly is designed to be ergonomically sized for surgical operation while housing the electronics in a protected compartment. This segmentation allows the device to remain compact and easy to operate while protecting vulnerable electronic components through dedicated housing and detachable design.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
AI summary
The present invention relates to an electronic medical and dental torque wrench for implant or prosthesis placement surgeries being dental or medical. Such torque wrench is capable of sending the measurement data instantly and automatically to a console for recording, processing and analyzing the data, in addition to this being sterilized by autoclave without the need for disassembly/removal of the device's electronic circuit. Further, the present invention refers to a system that comprises said torque wrench and the console for processing the data obtained.