Strut and Ring Connection System Design on External Fixator Based on Hexapod to Increase Bone Flexibility Reconstruction Using Finite Element Analysis List the author names here

An external fixator is a medical device that supports bone reconstruction processes that require correction due to bone deformities. External fixator based on hexapod is the right device to do correction of complex deformities due to its ability to reconstruct bones in three dimensions. There are many external fixator based on hexapod products with varied designs, one of these variations is Taylor spatial frame which uses a universal joint for its connection system. So far, based on U. S. Patent 8,202,273, Taylor spatial frame has a good strut-ring angle (0°) and adjustments. The results of the correction process observations show that the frame has backlash problems due to the clearance between components . This study aims to improve the connection system of the strut and ring of the external fixator so as to produce a range of angles between the strut and the ring which were less than 30 ° with no backlash on its components. The improvements that will be made to the strut and ring connection system use a generic product development process based on Ulrich and Springer and finite element analysis. The results show that there are four alternative improvement concepts that can be produced. One of the four concepts can produce a range of angles between strut and ring for 32.04 °. This research can be useful in the further development of external fixators based on hexapod.