Variable Angle Implant Torque Wrench with Ratchet Control

According to the patent, this mechanism is intended for access to implant components. The description is a technical proposal, not evidence of clinical performance or validated torque accuracy.

The problem

In dental implant procedures, surgeons often face limited mouth opening and awkward angles. When an implant fixture is placed at an angle, or the screw access hole faces distally or lingually, a standard straight-handled screwdriver cannot engage the component properly. This leads to poor grip, potential stripping of the screw head, and difficulty applying precise torque. Additionally, switching between tightening and loosening usually requires flipping the tool or changing drivers, which slows down the procedure. There is a need for a single instrument that can adjust its working angle, change rotation direction quickly, and provide basic torque control.

The solution

1. Adjustable Head: The tool consists of a head (1) and a body (2). The head connects to the body via a movable joint (2-1) featuring a square protrusion (1-4).
2. Angle Mechanism: A rotation angle device (2-2) allows the head to pivot. By pressing a movable pressing piece (2-3), the gear disengages from a cylindrical bulge (2-4), allowing the head to rotate around a shaft (2-7). Releasing the piece locks the head at the chosen angle.
3. Ratchet Control: The head has a ratchet groove (1-1) and a sector dial (1-3). A movable elastic piece (1-2) slides across three scale marks. Left position locks clockwise motion; right position locks counter-clockwise; middle position allows free rotation.
4. Torque Feedback: A torsion controller (3) is mounted on the side of the body. It uses two connectors of different heights and an elastic arm (3-3) as part of the torsion controller. Calibrated performance and operator feedback require separate validation.

Who it is for

• Dental Instrument Manufacturers: Companies looking to add advanced ergonomic tools to their implant surgery kits.
• OEM Brands for Dental Supplies: Brands needing custom-branded torque wrenches with specific angle ranges or torque settings.
• Surgical Tool Distributors: Wholesalers seeking differentiated products for oral surgery departments.
• Clinic Equipment Suppliers: Providers stocking consumable and reusable surgical instruments for private practices.

How it works

The main parts

Operating Steps

1. Select Ratchet: Insert the appropriate ratchet wheel into the head’s groove based on the implant screw size.
2. Set Angle: Press the movable piece (2-3) to unlock the head. Rotate the head to the required angle (to a suitable working position). Release to lock.
3. Choose Direction: Slide the elastic piece (1-2) to the left mark to block clockwise rotation, right mark to block counter-clockwise rotation, or center for free spinning.
4. Apply Force: Turn the body. Follow a separately validated torque procedure. The patent describes an elastic arm and scale-marked connector, not an automatic stop signal at a preset torque.

Applications

Angled Implant Placement

When implants are inserted at an angle due to bone density or anatomical constraints, the pivoting head allows the surgeon to adjust the driver approach to the screw axis, with engagement and slippage to be assessed on prototypes.

Limited Mouth Opening

In patients with restricted jaw movement, a straight handle may not fit. The adjustable angle feature enables the tool to work within tighter vertical clearances by angling the head away from the body.

Distal or Lingual Access

If the screw access hole faces backward or toward the tongue, the ratchet direction switch allows quick reversal of rotation without removing the tool from the mouth, speeding up the restoration process.

Torque Verification During Development

According to the patent, the side-mounted controller incorporates an elastic arm and a connector with torque scale values. Buyers should define a calibration and validation plan rather than assume an automatic torque limit or proven prevention of screw damage.

Where it is less suitable

• High-Precision Digital Surgery: This is a manual tool; it does not integrate with electronic torque meters or data logging systems.
• Very High Torque Requirements: The patent does not provide a validated load range. Do not select the device for a clinical torque requirement without appropriate engineering and regulatory evaluation.
• Single-Use Sterile Kits: The complex moving parts make thorough sterilization challenging compared to simpler, solid-shaft disposable drivers.