COMBINATION SCREWDRIVER AND TORQUE LIMITING SYSTEM

专利摘要:
The present invention relates to the field of combination rotary tools, more particularly to the combination of screwdrivers and drills. In particular, the invention relates to a sleeve element having a hollow portion adapted to contain a drill, and comprising a bolt or screw connection unit. More specifically, in the context of the present invention, said sleeve element has a built-in torque limiting mechanism.
公开号:BE1022426B1
申请号:E2015/5653
申请日:2015-10-13
公开日:2016-03-29
发明作者:Carl Dierickx；Yves Fortems；Dirk Wenmakers
申请人:Innortho Bvba；Mercator Innovations Bvba；
IPC主号:

专利说明:

COMBINATION SCREWDRIVER AND TORQUE LIMITING SYSTEM
DOMAIN OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to the field of combination rotary tools, more particularly to the combination of screwdrivers and drills. The invention relates in particular to a sleeve element with a hollow portion adapted to comprise a drill, and comprising a bolt or screw connection unit. More specifically, in the context of the present invention, the said sleeve element is provided with a built-in torque limitation mechanism.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
For certain operations and construction work, the operator (surgeon or workman) must drill several holes and then fix screws or bolts in the holes. With conventional tools, the operator needs 2 separate tools, a drill and a separate screwdriver; or if using a single tool, the operator must, after drilling a hole, replace the drill end on the motor unit with a screwdriver end before he can attach a screw or bolt. This changing of the ends of course takes time and can disrupt the operation or workflow.
As a solution to this problem, the present invention provides a sleeve element with a screw or bolt connection sleeve / unit at one end, which is adapted to include a drill. This type of screwdriver is known, for example, from DE202010011308, DE2822372, US4218795, US5313680, US3932904, US3484114, EP2345496, US5409333 and US4796319. None of them, however, tackles the aspects of torque limitation, let alone providing a solution to the problems associated with it.
In particular during operations and often also during construction work, it is very important to use a torque limiter to prevent damage to the tool or damage to the areas where the screws or bolts are applied and any subsequent 'cold welding'. Naturally, every type and size of screw or bolt requires an adjusted torque limiter. Hence, in addition to the change process from drill to screwdriver, either a pre-installed torque limiter must be set or a set and regularly calibrated torque limiter must be installed according to the type / size of screw or bolt. This process again takes valuable time. In addition, incorrect installation of the incorrect or non-calibrated torque limiter or incorrect setting of the pre-installed torque limiter in accordance with a particular screw or bolt will result in crucial errors, especially in stressful situations, such as urgent operations.
The present invention provides a solution to these problems by providing a hollow sleeve element with a screw or bolt connection sleeve / unit at one end, which is arranged to include a drill, and which is provided with a built-in torque limiting mechanism. In a special embodiment, said torque limiting mechanism is arranged in said sleeve element, depending on the type of bolt and screw connection unit. Thus, after drilling a hole, the operator can easily slide the screwdriver section (hollow sleeve) over the drill and thus quickly switch from drilling to screwing, with the correct torque limiter immediately available. Although many torque limiting devices are known in the art, they are either integrated into the engine block (US20110184425, WO2013178932) or supplied as a separate unit to be installed (e.g., US3167936, US3942337, US6132435, EP1996371, EP2311397); however, they are not integrated in the screwdriver section, let alone that they are preset in function of the bolt or screw connection unit at the end of the screwdriver section.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
In a first aspect, the present invention provides a sleeve element (1) comprising: - A hollow portion (2) adapted to comprise a drill (13), - A bolt or screw connection unit (3) on a first end (1a) of said sleeve element (1), - Fastening means (4) on a second end (1b) of said sleeve element (1), for releasably coupling said sleeve element (1) to the drill bit (13) or a motor unit (14);
Said sleeve element (1) is characterized in that it contains a built-in mechanism for torque limitation (5).
In a special embodiment, the said built-in mechanism for torque limitation (5) is adapted depending on the type of bolt or screw connection unit (3) of the sleeve element (1).
In one (special) embodiment, said built-in torque limitation mechanism (5) is defined by one or more break points (5a) in said sleeve element (1). Hence, said sleeve element is preferably for single use. In the said special embodiment, the resistance of the said breaking points (5a) is preferably adjusted depending on the type of bolt or screw connection unit (3) in the said sleeve element (1). In this special embodiment, the sleeve element (1) can be made of any suitable material, but preferably of metal or plastic, preferably of plastic material, such as for example polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polystyrene (PS), polyetheretherketone (PEEK) ...
In another particular embodiment, said built-in torque limitation mechanism (5) is defined by one or more depressions (5b), preferably at the second end (1b) of said sleeve element (1), said depressions (5b) being adjusted be to receive one or more resilient elements (8) from a torque limiter (11 or 19) mounted on said drilling (13) or motor unit (14). In the particular embodiment mentioned, the size and / or shape of the said depressions (5b) in the said sleeve element (1) is preferably adjusted depending on the type of bolt or screw connection unit (3). Moreover, the said depressions (5b) can be asymmetrical, so that a different torque limit can be applied clockwise or counterclockwise. In this particular embodiment, the sleeve element (1) can be made of any suitable material, such as, for example, polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polystyrene (PS), polyetheretherketone (PEEK) ... and the like; or from metal such as, for example, stainless steel.
In a further aspect, the present invention provides a set comprising a sleeve element (1) according to the present invention, and one or more bolts or screws adapted to fit with said bolt or screw connection unit (3) of said first end (1a) of said sleeve element. These screws can preferably also be pre-mounted on the bolt and screw connection unit (3).
In yet a further aspect, the present invention provides a torque limiter (11) according to a first embodiment, comprising: - A first torque limiter element (6) capable of including at least a first part of a driven element (12); - A second torque limiter element (7) for releasably engaging the first torque limiter element (6); - One or more resilient elements (8) for releasably engaging said second torque limiter element on driven element (12) by means of a built-in torque limiting mechanism (5b) present on said driven element (12) or on a sleeve element (1) ) according to the present invention and capable of including at least a second part of said driven element (12).
The torque limiter of this invention is capable of including any suitable type of driven element (12), such as a screwdriver, drill, etc. In the context of the present invention, the driven element is preferably a drill (13 '). Hence, and in accordance with the figures below, the specific use of a drill (13) is included in the further description, provided that it can be interchanged with any suitable type of driven element (12).
Accordingly, in a further aspect, the present invention provides a torque limiter (11) according to the first embodiment, comprising: - A first torque limiter element (6) capable of including at least a first portion of a drill (13); - A second torque limiter element (7) for releasably engaging said first torque limiter element (6); - One or more resilient elements (8) for releasably engaging said second torque limiter element on said drill bit (13) by means of a built-in torque limiting mechanism (5b) present on said drill bit (13) or on a sleeve element (1) ) according to the present invention and capable of including at least a second part of said drill (13).
In yet a further aspect, the present invention provides a torque limiter (19), according to a second embodiment, comprising: - A first torque limiter element (6) capable of including at least a first portion of a drill (13); - A second torque limiter element (7) for releasably engaging the first torque limiter element (6) with said drill (13); - One or more resilient elements (8) for releasably engaging said drill bit (13) on the second torque limiter element by means of a built-in torque limiting mechanism (5b) present on said drill bit (13) or on a sleeve element (1) according to any of claims 1, 2, 5, 6, 7, 8 or 10, capable of including at least a second part of said drill (13); - A coupling system (16) consisting of a coupling piece (16a) for coupling said torque limiter to a motor unit; and - A locking system (16b) for releasably engaging said drill (13) on said torque limiter (19) by means of a release system (18).
In a particular embodiment, the invention provides a torque limiter as defined above, wherein said second torque limiter element (7) includes a groove to receive a first portion (8a) of said one or more resilient elements (8).
In a further embodiment, the present invention provides a combination of a torque limiter according to the present invention, with a sleeve element (1) comprising a hollow portion (2) to include a drill (13), and releasably engages said second torque limiter element (7) to the drill (13) using said one or more resilient elements (8) with the built-in torque limiting mechanism (5) indirectly present on said sleeve element (1). In said particular embodiment, the built-in torque limiting mechanism (5) present on said sleeve member (1) preferably includes one or more depressions (5b) adapted to receive a second portion of said spring elements (8b).
In yet a further embodiment, the said one or more spring elements (8), wherein each of the spring elements 2 contains transmission balls (9) connected to an elastic element (10), such as, for example, one or more spring rings (10a) or spring.
In yet a further embodiment, said driven element (12) can be a drill (13) or a screwdriver, preferably a drill, more particularly a drill which can be enclosed by a hollow sleeve (the sleeve element (1)), which is screw element serves.
In yet a further embodiment, all components of said torque limiter (11) according to the present invention can be sterilized by autoclaving without affecting the operation of the device.
The torque limiter (11) according to the present invention is particularly suitable for surgical use.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
With specific reference now to the figures, it is emphasized that the details shown are by way of example only and for purposes of illustrative discussion of the various embodiments of the present invention. They are presented for the purpose of giving the most useful and easy description of the principles and conceptual aspects of the invention. In this regard, no attempt is made to show structural details of the invention in more detail than is necessary for a fundamental understanding of the invention. The description with the drawings makes it clear to those skilled in the art what different forms the invention can take in practice.
FIG. 1: Shows two embodiments of an uninstalled sleeve element (1) according to the invention, wherein the built-in torque limitation mechanism (5) is defined by one or more break points (5a) in said sleeve element (A), or wherein the built-in sleeve element torque limiting mechanism (5) is defined by one or more depressions (5b) in said sleeve element (B). Furthermore (A) shows a possible representation of a collar (15) which grips around said sleeve element (1), as well as a possible representation in which the hollow part (2) and the bolt or screw connection unit (3) are made of different types of materials , such as plastic and metal (stainless steel) respectively. FIG. 2: (A and B) represent exemplary types of drills (13) suitable for use in combination with the sleeve elements (1) of the present invention, wherein the drill of (A) is further provided with a type of coupling ( 13b) for easy attachment to a torque limiter (11 or 19) according to the present invention, and (C) an exemplary sleeve member (1) according to the present invention, when installed on a suitable drill (13) and further (optionally) including a collar (15) around said sleeve element. (D) shows a possible representation of a sleeve element (1) according to the invention when installed on a suitable drill (13) in which the hollow part (2) and the bolt or screw connection unit (3) are made of different types of materials, such as for example plastic and metal (stainless steel) respectively. FIG. 3: Shows two exemplary types of breakpoints (5a) that are suitable for use in the sleeve member of the present invention, and suitable for use as the torque limit mechanism (5).
FIG. 4: Shows a specific embodiment of the sleeve element (1) of the present invention, wherein the depressions (5b) in the sleeve element (1) are adapted to the type / size of the screw or bolt connection unit on the first end (1a) ) of said sleeve element. The depressions can be asymmetrical, so that a different torque limit can be applied clockwise or counterclockwise.
FIG. 5: Shows a suitable fastener (13b) for releasably engaging the drill (13) with a torque limiter (11) according to the present invention; and gives the process for coupling the individual elements: drill (13), torque limiter (11) and hollow sleeve element (1).
FIG. 6: (A) Shows a first embodiment of a torque limiter (11) according to the present invention, more particularly used in the presence of a coupling system (fastening means 13b) present on the drill (13) or the driven element (12) , ie directly coupled to the drill or the driven element; and (B) depicts a second embodiment of a torque limiter (19) according to the present invention, wherein more particularly the torque limiter itself includes a disconnection system for coupling the drill (13) or the driven element (12).
FIG. 7: Shows the assembly of: (A) a torque limiter (11) with a drill (13) and hollow sleeve element (1) according to this invention, wherein the drill is provided with fastening means (13b) for releasably engaging the drill the torque limiter; and (B) a torque limiter (11) with a drill (13) and hollow sleeve element (1) according to the present invention, wherein the torque limiter is provided with a release system (18) for releasably engaging the drill with the torque limiter FIG. 8: Shows (A) an embodiment of the elastic element (10) of the torque limiter, in particular of the double-transmission ball system (8a, 8b), which contains spring rings (10a) and transmission balls (9), and (B ) details of the connection of the resilient elements (8) of the torque limiter (11 or 19) of this invention to the depressions (5b) on the second end (1b) of the sleeve element according to the present invention.
FIG. 9: Shows an embodiment of a sleeve element (1) and a screw or bolt adapted to be coupled to the bolt and screw connection unit (3) on the first end (1a) of said sleeve element (1), optionally further comprising a barcode (17) or other means for easy identification of the torque limiter and the mounted screw or bolt.
Numbering: (1) Sleeve element (la) First end of the sleeve element (lb) Second end of the sleeve element (2) Hollow part (3) Bolt or screw connection unit / sleeve (4) Fasteners for releasably engaging the sleeve element with a drill or motor unit (5) Built-in torque limiting mechanism (5a) Break points in the sleeve element (5b) Sinks in the sleeve element (6) First torque limiting element (6a) Spring element for moving the second torque limiting element (7) Second torque limiting element (7a) Groove in the second torque limiter element (8) Resilient elements (8a) First portion of the resilient elements (8b) Second portion of the resilient elements (9) Transmission ball (s) (10) Elastic element (10a) Spring washers (11) Torque limiter according to the first embodiment (12) Driven element (12a) Fixing means for releasably engaging the driven element with the motor unit (12b) Fixing means for the release b engaging the driven element with the torque limiter (13) Drill (13a) Fastening means for releasably engaging the drill with the motor unit (13b) Fastening means for releasably engaging the drill with the torque limiter (14) Motor unit (15) Collar ( 16) Coupling system (16a) Coupling piece (16b) Locking system (17) Identification code (e.g. barcode) (18) Disconnection system, such as for example resilient elements (18a) First part of the resilient elements (18b) Second part of resilient elements (19) Torque limiter according to the second embodiment
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
As stated above, the present invention particularly contemplates a system with which it is possible to switch quickly between drills and screws, while at the same time a torque limiting system is installed, adapted to the screw or bolt to be used for the drilled hole.
To this end, the present invention provides in a first aspect a sleeve element (1) comprising: - A hollow portion (2) adapted to comprise a drill (13), - A bolt or screw connection unit (3) on a first end (1a) of said sleeve element (1), - Fastening means (4) on a second end (1b) of said sleeve element (1), for releasably coupling said sleeve element (1) to the drill bit (13) or a motor unit (14);
Said sleeve element (1) is characterized in that it contains a built-in mechanism for torque limitation (5, in particular 5a and 5b) (see Figures 1A and B).
With this special type of sleeve element (1) the operator can drill a hole with the aid of a motor unit provided with a drill (13). Then, and without removing the drill, the operator can easily slide the hollow sleeve element (1) according to the invention over the drill (as for example illustrated in Fig. 2C) and attach a bolt or screw that fits into the same motor unit (14) the bolt and screw connection unit (3) on the first end (1a) of said sleeve element. In addition, the operator does not have to worry about attaching a suitable torque limiter, or adjusting a pre-installed torque limiter, according to the specific type / size of the screw or bolt to be installed, because the sleeve element (1) according to this invention is already provided with a built-in mechanism for torque limitation (5). Consequently, it is obvious that this type of sleeve element (1) considerably reduces the time required to switch from drilling to screwing, with the correct torque limiter installed. This time saving can be of crucial importance in an emergency operation.
It should be clarified that the invention is not limited to motorized assemblies and that the hollow sleeve element of the present invention can also be used in combination with non-motorized assemblies, such as for example classic screwdriver handles, with or without a fast coupling system, as currently is used in surgery and as illustrated for example in WO2005120371.
In the context of the present invention, the terms "screw" or "bolt" are used to define a fastener that can position or hold objects together. They can be used, for example, in Osteosynthesis, during which an operation must be made between two bones or bone fragments using plates, screws, bolts, etc.
The term bolt or screw connection unit (3) as used herein is defined as an end of the sleeve element of the present invention to which a bolt or screw can be mounted and which is arranged such that said bolt or screw is driven by a driving action of a motor unit is driven into the object.
In the context of the present invention, the term "motor unit" (14) refers to the driving means to which a drill bit and / or screw bit can be attached, and which is used for the automatic drilling or screwing operation.
In the context of the present invention, the term "drill bit" refers to the drill end that is mounted on a motor unit and used to pierce an object such as, for example, a bone. Similarly, a "screw bit" refers to the screwdriver end that is mounted on the motor unit and used to drive a screw or bolt into a hole.
Of course, each type / size of screw or bolt requires its own adjusted torque limiter, whereby the correct torque is applied to the specific type of screw or bolt mentioned. Hence, in a special embodiment, the built-in torque limitation mechanism (5) is adjusted depending on the type of bolt or screw connection unit (3) in the sleeve element (1). In the aforementioned embodiment, only screws or bolts that fit into / on the specific bolt or screw connection unit (3) can be used in combination with a particular sleeve element (1) on which the corresponding built-in torque limiting mechanism (5) is installed. This embodiment therefore reduces or even eliminates the margin of error of selecting an incorrect torque limiter for a particular type of screw or bolt.
In a particular embodiment, said built-in torque limitation mechanism (5) is defined by one or more break points (5a) in said sleeve element (see Figures 1A and 3). Any suitable means that provides such breaking points between two or more parts of the sleeve element is possible, such as for example one or more breaking bolts, one or more weaker zones in the sleeve element, one or more holes in the sleeve element. (see figure 3). During use of the sleeve element, the break points will break and disconnect the two or more parts of the sleeve element, at a certain amount of torque applied to the said break point. When using this type of torque limiting mechanism, a new sleeve element (1) with intact break points must be used for each screw or bolt to be installed, because once the break points (5a) have reached their maximum torque and are broken, the sleeve element (1) cannot be reset. are used. This embodiment is therefore particularly suitable for single-use applications, where a new sleeve element (1) is used for each new screw or bolt to be installed. Although the sleeve element may be made of any suitable material, such as, for example, metal (e.g. stainless steel), it is therefore preferably made of a cheap material (for single use), such as plastic material, e.g. polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP) ), polystyrene (PS), polyether ether ketone (PEEK) and the like. Alternatively, the sleeve member can be made from two or more different materials. The hollow portion (2) can for instance be made of synthetic material while the bolt or screw connection unit is made of metal (e.g. stainless steel). This specific embodiment is further illustrated in Figures 1A and 2D. Herein the hollow portion (2) and the built-in torque limiting mechanism (5a) are made of a plastic material and the bolt or screw connection unit (3) is made of metal (e.g. stainless steel) that fits into the end of the sleeve element ( 1).
In this particular embodiment, the resistance of said breaking points (5a) or pins is preferably adjusted, depending on the type of bolt or screw connection unit (3) in the sleeve element (1). Therefore, as mentioned above, only screws or bolts that fit into / on the specific bolt or screw connection unit (3) can be used in combination with a particular sleeve element (1), the resistance of the break points (5a) being adjusted based on of the specified screws or bolts.
In yet another embodiment, the sleeve element (1) according to the present invention may comprise a collar (15) around a part of the sleeve element (1), with which the operator can hold the tool in the correct position (see Figure 1A). In addition, said collar (15) can protect the environment against any grit from breaking the breaking points of the built-in torque limiting mechanism (5a). This is particularly relevant in an operation where it is unacceptable that grit from the tool ends up in the patient's wound. If relevant, the collar can also serve to hold both parts of the sleeve member together after breaking the break points. The collar (15) can be pivotally attached to the sleeve element or can rotate around the sleeve element so that the operator can hold the collar firmly while the sleeve element can still rotate.
In yet another particular embodiment, the built-in torque limitation mechanism (5) is defined by one or more depressions (5b) in said sleeve element (1), preferably in the shaft of said sleeve element (see Figure 1B). These depressions (5b) are adapted to receive one or more resilient elements (8) from a torque limiting device mounted on said drill (13) or motor unit (14) (see Figure 8B). In this particular embodiment, the fastening means (4) are fully integrated with and match the built-in torque limiting mechanism (5) of the sleeve element (1). In this embodiment, the sleeve element (1) can be made of any suitable material, such as, for example, plastic material such as polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polystyrene (PS), polyetheretherketone (PEEK); or from metal, such as stainless steel. Alternatively, the sleeve member can be made from two or more different materials. The hollow portion (2) can for instance be made of synthetic material while the bolt or screw connection unit is made of metal (e.g. stainless steel).
In a particular embodiment, the size and / or shape of said depressions (5b) can be adjusted depending on the type of bolt or screw connection unit (3) in said sleeve element (1) and is / are then in fact adapted to the type / size of the bolt or screw to be installed. This is illustrated, for example, in Figure 4. In the case mentioned, each type of screw or bolt has its own modified sleeve element (1) with appropriately adjusted depressions (5b). Therefore, the torque limiting device including spring element (8) mounted on a drill (13) or motor unit (14) for engaging with the said depressions can be held as standard between different screws or bolts, while adapting to the type of screw or bolt with the adjusted depressions (5b) in the specific sleeve elements (1). This contrasts with conventional tools where the torque limiting device must be adjusted or exchanged for each type of screws or bolts to be installed. This embodiment thus permits the use of a torque limiting device in combination with a series of different screws and nuts, each requiring a specifically adapted torque limiter.
In a special embodiment, the depressions (5b) in said sleeve element (1) can be symmetrical in size or shape, so that a similar torque limit can be applied clockwise or counterclockwise. Alternatively, the depressions (5b) in said sleeve element (1) can be asymmetrical in size or shape, whereby a different torque limit can be applied clockwise or counterclockwise. Preferably the depressions (5b) are asymmetrical in the direction of rotation (i.e. bi-directional), whereby a different maximum amount of torque is possible clockwise or counterclockwise (see Figs. 4 and 7B, i.e. α ~ β). In this case the depressions (5b) are designed such that the torque to be transmitted is dependent on the direction of rotation. For example, when turning the hollow sleeve (1) clockwise, ie in the mounting direction, the maximum allowable amount of torque (ie the torque tolerance) on the device is preferably smaller than when turning the hollow sleeve counterclockwise in, ie in the release direction. As such, although the maximum torque can be achieved clockwise, and further tightening the screw or bolt is impossible, it still remains possible to loosen the screw or bolt due to the higher torque tolerance counterclockwise.
In a further aspect, the present invention provides a set comprising a sleeve element (1) according to the present invention and one or more screws or bolts adapted to fit with said bolt or screw connection unit (3) on said first end (1a) of the said sleeve element, as illustrated, for example, in Figure 9. In the aforementioned embodiment, the sleeve element and the screws / bolts are packed such that in all cases the correct screws / bolts are combined with the corresponding bolt or screw connection sleeve / unit (3) and the correct built-in torque limiting mechanism (5). This embodiment thus offers a particularly suitable combination for use during operations and considerably reduces the margin of error due to incorrect combination of screws / bolts and any non-calibrated torque limiting systems.
The advantages of this special embodiment in an operation become especially clear when comparing the original method for switching between drill and screwdriver with the new method as provided in this patent:
Thus, by using the sleeve member (1) of the present invention, at least 5 steps of the original method can be skipped. Experiments have shown that a considerable reduction in operating time can be achieved with the present invention.
The use of a set of pre-assembled invention on screw also allows traceability during an operation. For example, if a unique identification code (17) is used with each package, it is possible to trace the actually used screws during and after the operation, in all cases. Such a code can for instance be on the package and / or be provided on the side of the hollow sleeve, such as for example on the collar, if the latter is present. By way of example, a barcode (17) can be used, which can be scanned during an operation before or after the fitting of the associated screw or bolt. Alternatively, a removable label, whether or not provided with such a barcode, can be used. Said removable label can then be removed from the package or hollow sleeve during the operation and inserted into the patient's medical record. Moreover, the package, the sleeve element and / or parts thereof can also be provided with a color code, for easily identifying the type / size of the screw or bolt to be installed, which can also be provided with a color code; and / or the torque to be applied (eg expressed in Nm).
In order to quickly switch between drills and screws and at the same time offer a corresponding torque limiter for each type of screw or bolt, the inventors have also developed a new type of torque limiter (11 or 19) that is particularly suitable in combination with the sleeve element (1) as described above .
In a further aspect the present invention thus provides a torque limiter (11) comprising: - A first torque limiter element (6) capable of providing at least a first part of a driven element (12), more particularly a drill (13); - A second torque limiter element (7) for releasably engaging the first torque limiter element (6); - One or more resilient elements (8) for releasably engaging said second torque limiter element on driven element (12) by means of a built-in torque limiting mechanism (5) present on a sleeve element (1) according to the present invention and capable of at least a second part of said driven element (12).
As already indicated above, the torque limiter according to the present invention is capable of including any suitable type of driven element (12), such as a screwdriver, drill, etc. In the context of the present invention, the driven element is preferably a drill (13).
Accordingly, in a further aspect, the present invention provides a torque limiter (11) according to the first embodiment, comprising: - A first torque limiter element (6) capable of including at least a first portion of a drill (13); - A second torque limiter element (7) for releasably engaging said first torque limiter element (6); - One or more resilient elements (8) for releasably engaging said second torque limiter element on said drill bit (13) by means of a built-in torque limiting mechanism (5b) present on said drill bit (13) or on a sleeve element (1) ) according to the present invention and capable of including at least a second part of said drill (13).
This type of torque limiter is illustrated, for example, in Figures 6A and B.
In a more specific embodiment, the present invention provides a torque limiter (19), according to a second embodiment, comprising: - A first torque limiter element (6) capable of including at least a first part of a drill (13); - A second torque limiter element (7) for releasably engaging said first torque limiter element (β) with said drill bit (13); - One or more resilient elements (8) for releasably engaging said drill bit (13) on the second torque limiter element by means of a built-in torque limiting mechanism (5b) present on said drill bit (13) or on a sleeve element (1) according to any of claims 1, 2, 5, 6, 7, 8 or 10, capable of including at least a second part of said drill (13); - A coupling system (16) consisting of a coupling piece (16a) for coupling said torque limiter to a motor unit; and - a locking system (16b) for releasably engaging said drill (13) on said torque limiter (19) by means of a release system (18).
Regardless of the built-in torque limiting mechanism (5), the coupling between the torque limiter (11 or 19) and the driven element (12), the drill bit (13) or motor unit (14) can be made by any suitable means, as far as the torque limiter ( 11 or 16) with the required rotary attachment to the driven element (12), the drill (13) or motor unit (14). The drill (13) may, for example, comprise fastening means (13b) with a specific shape (13a), which accommodate the torque limiter (11 or 19) and prevent the first torque limiter element (6) from rotating about its longitudinal axis (see Fig. 5 and 6A). Such fastening means (13b) can for instance be represented by a star coupling which can engage with a corresponding part of the torque limiter. Furthermore, the drill bit (13a) is preferably asymmetrical, so that it can only fit in 1 direction of the motor unit (14). In a specific embodiment, said asymmetrical end can be duplicated in the shank of the drill (13) or the driven element (12) to include the first torque limiter element (6), and thus serve as fastening means (13b). As such, the said first torque limiter element (6) can only fit in one direction around the drill (13) or the driven element (12) and at the same time provide the required rotary attachment of the torque limiter (11).
Alternatively, the torque limiter can be coupled to the drill (13) or the driven element (12) via a further coupling system (16) that forms part of the torque limiter (19), as illustrated in FIG. 6B. In a special embodiment, the torque limiter (19) according to the present invention thus also comprises a coupling system (16) with a coupling piece (16a) for coupling the torque limiter to a motor unit; and a locking system (16b) for releasably engaging a drill (13) or driven element (12) with the torque limiter (19) by means of a release system (18).
In the above-mentioned embodiment, the torque limiter (19) according to the present invention can be connected to the driven element (12), in particular a drill (13), by means of a coupling system (16), which is preferably part of the torque limiter as illustrated in FIG. 6b. Such a coupling system (16) preferably comprises a coupling piece (16a) for installing it on the motor unit and is adapted to comprise the driven element (12) or the drill (13). In this embodiment, the first torque limiter element (6) can be a part of or attached to the coupling system (16). The drill (13) or the driven element (12) can be coupled to the coupling system by means of a disconnection system (18), such as for example one or more further resilient elements.
Regardless of the type of torque limiter (11 or 19), the hollow sleeve member of the invention (1) can be installed on the torque limiter (11 or 19) by means of the resilient elements (8) in combination with the second torque limiter element (7).
The torque limiter (19) with built-in coupling system (16), however, has further advantages because it makes it possible to use standard drills (13) or driven elements (12) in combination with the torque limiter, and no modification of the existing driven elements (12). ) or drilling (13) required.
In a particular embodiment, the present invention provides a torque limiter (11 or 19), as defined above, wherein said second torque limiter element (7) comprises one or more grooves (7a) suitable for a first portion (8a) of said receive one or more resilient elements (8) (see Figure 8A). Alternatively, the grooves can be replaced by any suitable means for receiving resilient elements, such as, for example, depressions, recesses, slots, etc.
In a further embodiment, the present invention provides the combination of a torque limiter (11) according to the present invention, with a sleeve element (1) comprising a hollow portion (2) to comprise a driven element (12) or drill (13). Said torque limiter is adapted for releasably engaging said second torque limiter element (7) with said driven part (12) or said drill (13) by means of one or more resilient elements (8) in the torque limiter, the built-in torque limiting mechanism (5) is present in said sleeve element (1) (see Figure 7A). Said second torque limiter element (7) can be moved laterally over the first torque limiter element (6) by means of a resilient element (6a) that is wound around said first torque limiter element (6).
In said particular embodiment, said sleeve element preferably comprises one or more depressions (5b) suitable for receiving a second part of said spring elements (8b). More in particular, said sleeve is preferably a sleeve element (1) according to the present invention. In this embodiment, the hollow sleeve (1) is thus attached to the drill (13) by means of this particular type of torque limiter (11) as illustrated in Figure 7A. In this embodiment, the fixing means (4) of the sleeve element are thus integrated with and consisting of the built-in torque limiting mechanism (5).
In yet another embodiment, said one or more resilient elements (8) each comprise 2 transmission balls (9) connected to an elastic element (10), such as a coil spring of spring rings, as illustrated in Figure 8A. Preferably spring rings (10a) are used because their elasticity hardly changes after an initial exposure to high temperatures required for autoclaving.
The force of the elastic elements (10) on the one hand the second torque limiter element (7) and on the other hand the driven element (12) / the drill bit (13) (directly) or the sleeve element (1) (indirectly) holds the transmission balls (9) in the groove (7a) of said second torque limiter element (7); or in the depressions of the driven element (12) / the drill bit (13) or the sleeve element (1), respectively. As the screw or bolt tensions in the object, it exerts a counter-torque on the sleeve element or driven element, which will be transferred to the transfer balls (9). As soon as the counter-torque on the transmission balls exceeds the maximum pressure of the elastic element, the transmission balls (9) will come loose from the depressions or groove as a result of the counter-torque and thus prevent the screw or bolt from being tightened too tightly.
The maximum amount of torque that can be applied to the screw or bolt depends on the force exerted by the elastic elements (10) on the transmission balls (9) and is defined by the depth, size and / or shape of the depressions in the shaft of the driven element (12) / the drill bit (13) and / or the depressions (5b) in the shaft of the sleeve element (1). The maximum amount of torque applied to the screw or bolt can thus be adjusted by the depth, the size and / or the shape of the depressions in the shaft of the driven element (12) / the drill (13) and / or change the depressions (5b) in the shaft of the sleeve element (1). Thus, a single type of torque limiter can be used in combination with a series of different driven elements (12) or sleeve elements (1) each having depressions that are adjusted depending on the type or size of the screw or bolt to be installed. Alternatively, the depth, size, and / or shape of the groove (7a) in the second torque limiter element (7) can be changed to adjust the maximum amount of torque to be applied to the screw or bolt. In this case, however, a separate torque limiter or a separate second torque limiter element according to the invention must be used in combination with different types of screws or bolts.
In a further embodiment the driven element (12) can be a drill (13) or a screwdriver, preferably a drill, more particularly a drill which can be enclosed by a hollow sleeve, which acts as a screw element, such as a sleeve element (1) according to the present invention.
In yet another embodiment, all components of the torque limiter (11) of this invention can be sterilized in the autoclave without affecting the operation of the device. Therefore, all components of the torque limiter (11 or 19) according to the invention are preferably made of stainless steel or another material that will reduce wear and abrasion, can be sterilized and can withstand repeated autoclaving.

权利要求:
Claims (22)
[1]
CONCLUSIONS
A sleeve member (1) comprising: a hollow portion (2) adapted to include a drill (13); a bolt or screw connection unit (3) on a first end (1a) of said sleeve element (1); fastening means (4) on a second end (1b) of said sleeve element (1), for releasably coupling said sleeve element (1) to said drill bit (13) or a motor unit (14); said sleeve element (1) being characterized in that it comprises a built-in torque limiting mechanism (5).
[2]
A sleeve element (1) according to claim 1, wherein said built-in torque limitation mechanism (5) is adapted depending on the type of bolt or screw connection unit (3) of the sleeve element (1).
[3]
A sleeve element (1) according to any one of claims 1 or 2, wherein built-in torque limitation mechanism (5) is defined by one or more break points (5a) in said sleeve element (1).
[4]
A sleeve element (1) according to claim 3, wherein the resistance of said breaking points (5a) is adjusted depending on the type of bolt or screw connection unit (3) in said sleeve element (1).
[5]
A sleeve element (1) according to any one of claims 1 or 2, wherein the fastening means (4) are fully integrated into, or correspond to, the built-in torque limiting mechanism (5).
[6]
A sleeve element (1) according to claim 5, wherein the built-in torque limitation mechanism (5) is defined by one or more depressions (5b) in said sleeve element (1), and wherein said depressions (5b) are adapted to one or receive more resilient elements (8) from a torque limiter (11 or 16) mounted on said drilling or (13) motor unit (14).
[7]
A sleeve element (1) according to claim 6, wherein the size and / or shape of one or more depressions (5b) is adjusted depending on the type of bolt or screw connection unit (3) in said sleeve element (1).
[8]
A sleeve element (1) according to any of claims 6 or 7, wherein said one or more depressions (5b) are asymmetrical, whereby a different torque limit can be applied clockwise or counterclockwise.
[9]
A sleeve element (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, made from a plastic material, such as for example polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polystyrene (PS), polyether-ketone (PEEK).
[10]
A sleeve element (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 8 made from metal such as, for example, stainless steel.
[11]
A sleeve element (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, comprising a specific color and / or barcode, each optionally applied to a removable label, to easily identify and / or trace the sleeve element.
[12]
Use of a sleeve element (1) according to any of claims 1 to 11 for surgical applications.
[13]
A set comprising a sleeve element (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, and one or more bolts or screws adapted to fit with said bolt or screw connection unit (3).
[14]
A torque limiter (11) comprising: a first torque limiter element (6) capable of including at least a first portion of a driven element (12) or drill (13); A second torque limiter element (7) for releasably engaging said first torque limiter element (6) with said driven element (12) or drill (13); and one or more resilient elements (8) for releasably engaging said driven element (12) or drill (13) with said second torque limiter element by means of a built-in torque limiting mechanism (5b) present on said driven element (12) ) or drill (13) or on a sleeve element (1) according to any of claims 1, 2, 5, 6, 7, 8 or 10, capable of providing at least a second part of said driven element (12) or drill (13 ).
[15]
A torque limiter (19) comprising: a first torque limiter element (6) capable of including at least a first portion of a driven element (12) or drill (13); a second torque limiter element (7) for releasably engaging said first torque limiter element (6) with said driven element (12) or drill (13); one or more resilient elements (8) for releasably engaging said driven element (12) or drill (13) with said second torque limiter element by means of a built-in torque limiting mechanism (5b) present on said driven element (12) or drill (13) or on a sleeve element (1) according to any of claims 1, 2, 5, 6, 7, 8 or 10, capable of providing at least a second part of said driven element (12) or drill (13) include; a coupling system (16) consisting of a coupling piece (16a) for coupling said torque limiter to a motor unit; and a locking system (16b) for releasably engaging said driven element (12) or drill (13) on the torque limiter (19) by means of a release system (18).
[16]
A torque limiter (11 or 19) as claimed in any one of claims 14 or 15, wherein said second torque limiter element (7) includes a groove (7a) intended to form a first portion (8a) of said one or more resilient elements (8) receive.
[17]
A torque limiter (11 or 19) according to any of claims 14 to 16, wherein the built-in torque limitation mechanism (5) includes one or more depressions (5b) adapted to receive a second portion of said resilient elements (8b) .
[18]
A torque limiter (11 or 19) according to any of claims 13 to 17, wherein each of said resilient elements (8) comprises 2 transmission balls (9) connected to an elastic element (10), such as for example one or more spring rings (10a) ) or spring.
[19]
A torque limiter (11 or 19) according to any of claims 13 to 18, wherein said driven element (12) is a drill (13) or a screwdriver.
[20]
A torque limiter (11 or 19) according to any of claims 13 to 19, wherein all components of said torque limiter can be sterilized by autoclaving without affecting the operation of the device.
[21]
A torque limiter (11) according to any of claims 13 to 20 for surgical use.
[22]
A torque limiter (11) according to any one of claims 13 to 21, in combination with a sleeve element (1) according to one of claims 1, 2, 5, 6, 7, 8 or 10.

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法律状态:
2021-07-15| MM| Lapsed because of non-payment of the annual fee|Effective date: 20201031 |

优先权:

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申请号 | 申请日 | 专利标题

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NL2013623|2014-10-13|

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NL2013623|2014-10-13|

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