Automatic Length Measurements in Hexapod Fixators Using Optical Proximity Sensors

Research output: Contribution to book/Conference proceedings/Anthology/ReportConference contributionContributedpeer-review

Contributors

  • Christian Adam - , Hamburg University of Technology, Innovations Medical GmbH (Author)
  • Tobias Barth - , Innovations Medical GmbH, BG Hospital Hamburg (Author)
  • Arndt-Peter Schulz - , Leipzig University (Author)
  • Andreas Bahr - , Hamburg University of Technology (Author)

Abstract

Hexapod fixators are a specialized type of external fixators, which are used in the treatment of complex bone fractures. A set of metallic rings, which are attached to the bone fragments using wires and which are connected to each other by six length-adjustable struts, so-called distractors, enables a flexible and precise repositioning of fractures in six degrees of freedom. The lengths of the distractors define the configuration of the hexapod fixator and typically have to be iteratively adjusted over a period of several weeks. However, since the distractors are hard to reach for the patients, the length control is error-prone, limits the patient's autonomy and can even require prolonged hospitalization. To overcome these limitations, a new system for automatically measuring the distractor lengths is proposed, which utilizes optical proximity sensors and wirelessly transmits the results to a reader device. The system achieves a measurement accuracy of less than 1 mm over the full measurement range of 105 mm. It can be powered autonomously from a small button cell for several weeks. With dimensions of 24 mm x 10 mm, the electronics module adds only little volume and weight.

Details

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publication2024 31st IEEE International Conference on Electronics, Circuits and Systems (ICECS)
PublisherInstitute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE)
Number of pages4
ISBN (electronic)979-8-3503-7720-0
ISBN (print)979-8-3503-7721-7
Publication statusPublished - 20 Nov 2024
Peer-reviewedYes
Externally publishedYes

Conference

Title31st IEEE International Conference on Electronics Circuits and Systems
Abbreviated titleICECS 2024
Conference number31
Duration18 - 20 November 2024
Website
Degree of recognitionInternational event
LocationProuvé Convention Center
CityNancy
CountryFrance

External IDs

Scopus 85217619855
ORCID /0000-0001-8012-6794/work/184006561

Keywords

ASJC Scopus subject areas

Keywords

  • Accuracy, Adaptive optics, Bones, Length measurement, Optical sensors, Optical variables measurement, Six sigma, Temperature measurement, Temperature sensors, Wires, length measurement, proximity sensor, osteosynthesis, hexapod fixator