Magnetic alignment of intraluminal sensing devices in connectors and associated devices, systems, and methods

Abstract

A system includes an intravascular guidewire and a connector. An intravascular guidewire includes a flexible elongate member, a sensor, and a guidewire electrical contact. The connector is a connector that is removably coupled to an intravascular guidewire. The connector includes a slot configured to receive the flexible elongate member and a connector electrical contact. The guidewire and / or connector includes a magnet. The magnet facilitates positioning the proximal portion of the flexible elongate member within the slot and / or aligning the guidewire electrical contact and the connector electrical contact. The connector may include a locking feature. The connector may include a magnet proximate the locking feature. Guide wire magnets and / or connector magnets facilitate positioning the flexible elongate member within the slot.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The subject matter described herein relates to intraluminal physiological sensing devices (eg, intravascular pressure sensing and / or flow sensing guidewires). For example, the intraluminal device may include magnetic alignment of the proximal end of the sensing guidewire in a connector. Background Art

[0002] Intraluminal physiological sensing device can be introduced into the body lumen of the patient, and can for example include a physiological sensor located at the distal end of a catheter or a guide wire. Small diameter medical devices such as intraluminal (e.g., intravascular) catheters and guide wires can include sensors (e.g., pressure, temperature, flow or imaging sensors), and the power and communication of these sensors are realized by multi-wire (e.g., two-wire, three-wire, etc.) electrical conductor bundles or flat metal bands. Wires can be used for connecting such sensors located at the distal end of a catheter or a guide wire with a connector located at the proximal end of a catheter or a guide wire. For such catheters and guide wires, the segments of electrical contacts are usually arranged at the proximal portion of the guide wire. Correct alignment between the electrical contacts of the connector and the proximal portion of the guide wire is necessary to ensure reliable electrical connection.

[0003] The information contained in the background section of this specification (including any documents cited herein and any description or discussion thereof) is included for technical reference purposes only and should not be regarded as subject matter by which the scope of the present disclosure is limited. Summary of the invention

[0004] The present invention discloses an intraluminal physiological sensing device (e.g., intravascular pressure sensing and / or flow sensing guidewire), which includes a magnet for aligning a flexible, slender member in a connector. The magnet can be advantageously placed at a position in a connection portion and / or a connector of the flexible, slender member of the sensing guidewire. The position of the magnet pulls the flexible, slender member downward into a recess of the connector, and positions the flexible, slender member so that the locking section is aligned in the groove, and the conductive portion is longitudinally aligned with the open comb-shaped electrical contacts separated from the connector. This can provide the correct use of the locking core feature in the connector while reducing the risk of misconnection and damage to the proximal end of the flexible, slender member.

[0005] In one exemplary aspect, a system is provided. The system includes: an intravascular guidewire, the intravascular guidewire including: a flexible, elongated member configured to be positioned in a patient's blood vessel, wherein the flexible, elongated member includes a proximal portion and a distal portion; a sensor disposed at the distal portion of the flexible, elongated member, wherein the sensor is configured to obtain medical data related to the blood vessel when the flexible, elongated member is positioned in the blood vessel; a guidewire electrical contact disposed at the proximal portion of the flexible, elongated member, wherein the guidewire electrical contact is electrically connected to the sensor; a connector configured to be Removably connected to an intravascular guidewire, wherein the connector includes: a slot configured to receive a proximal portion of a flexible, slender member; and a connector electrical contact configured to contact the guidewire electrical contact when the proximal portion of the flexible, slender member is received in the slot to establish electrical communication with a sensor, wherein at least one of the proximal portion of the guidewire and the connector includes a magnet, wherein the magnet is configured to facilitate at least one of: positioning the proximal portion of the flexible, slender member in the slot; and aligning the guidewire electrical contact and the connector electrical contact.

[0006] In some aspects, the connector includes a magnet, and the magnet is disposed below the slot. In some aspects, the connector includes a magnet, and the magnet is disposed close to the connector electrical contact. In some aspects, the magnet is aligned with the connector electrical contact. In some aspects, the magnet is offset relative to the connector electrical contact. In some aspects, the connector includes a plurality of connector electrical contacts, and the magnet is disposed between the plurality of connector electrical contacts. In some aspects, the connector includes a plurality of magnets and a plurality of connector electrical contacts, and the plurality of magnets are disposed close to the plurality of connector electrical contacts. In some aspects, the proximal portion of the flexible elongated member includes a first section having a first diameter and a second section having a second diameter less than the first diameter, and the connector includes: a magnet; and a locking feature configured to engage the second diameter of the second section, and the magnet is disposed close to the locking feature. In some aspects, the magnet is disposed proximal to the locking feature. In some aspects, the connector includes a magnet, and the proximal portion of the flexible elongated member includes an additional magnet, and the magnet and the additional magnet are arranged so that the opposite polarities of the magnet and the additional magnet attract each other. In some respects, other magnet is arranged to approach the guide wire electrical contact. In some respects, other magnet is aligned with the guide wire electrical contact. In some respects, other magnet is offset relative to the guide wire electrical contact. In some respects, the proximal portion of the flexible elongated member terminates at the proximal end, and other magnet approaches the proximal end.

[0007] In one exemplary aspect, a system is provided. The system includes: an intravascular guidewire, comprising: a flexible, elongated member configured to be positioned within a patient's blood vessel, wherein the flexible, elongated member includes a proximal portion and a distal portion; at least one of a pressure sensor and a flow sensor, which is disposed at the distal portion of the flexible, elongated member and is configured to obtain at least one of pressure data and flow data associated with the blood vessel when the flexible, elongated member is positioned within the blood vessel; a guidewire electrical contact, which is disposed at the proximal portion of the flexible, elongated member, wherein the guidewire electrical contact is electrically connected to at least one of the pressure sensor and the flow sensor; a connector, which is configured to be used for A connector for being removably connected to an intravascular guidewire, wherein the connector includes: a groove configured to receive a proximal portion of a flexible, slender member; a connector electrical contact configured to contact the guidewire electrical contact when the proximal portion of the flexible, slender member is received in the groove so as to establish electrical communication with at least one of a pressure sensor and a flow sensor, wherein at least one of the following items: the proximal portion of the guidewire includes a magnet proximate to the guidewire electrical contact; and the connector includes an additional magnet proximate to the connector electrical contact, wherein at least one of the magnet and the additional magnet is configured to facilitate alignment of the guidewire electrical contact and the connector electrical contact.

[0008] In one exemplary aspect, a system is provided. The system includes: an intravascular guidewire, comprising: a flexible, elongated member configured to be positioned within a patient's blood vessel, wherein the flexible, elongated member includes a proximal portion and a distal portion, wherein the proximal portion includes a first segment having a first diameter and a second segment having a second diameter smaller than the first diameter; at least one of a pressure sensor and a flow sensor, which is disposed at the distal portion of the flexible, elongated member and is configured to obtain at least one of pressure data and flow data associated with the blood vessel when the flexible, elongated member is positioned within the blood vessel; a guidewire electrical contact, which is disposed at the proximal portion of the flexible, elongated member, wherein the guidewire electrical contact is electrically connected to at least one of the pressure sensor and the flow sensor ; a connector configured to be removably coupled to an intravascular guidewire, wherein the connector comprises: a slot configured to receive a proximal portion of a flexible, elongated member; a connector electrical contact configured to contact a guidewire electrical contact when the proximal portion of the flexible, elongated member is received in the slot so as to establish electrical communication with at least one of a pressure sensor and a flow sensor; a locking feature configured to engage a second diameter of a second segment, wherein at least one of the following: the proximal portion of the guidewire comprises a magnet; and the connector comprises an additional magnet proximate to the locking feature, wherein at least one of the magnet and the additional magnet is configured to facilitate positioning the proximal portion of the flexible, elongated member in the slot.

[0009] The Summary of the Invention section introduces selected concepts in simplified form, which are further described in the Detailed Description section below. The Summary of the Invention section is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter. A more extensive introduction to the features, details, utilities, and advantages of various aspects of the present disclosure will be provided in the following written description of various embodiments of the present disclosure and illustrated in the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] Illustrative embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0011] Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view of an intravascular system according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0012] Figure 2 According to various aspects of the present disclosure Figure 1 Schematic side view of an intravascular device of an intravascular system.

[0013] Figure 3 is a schematic side view of a proximal connection portion of an intravascular device according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0014] Figure 4 is a schematic side view of a proximal connection portion and locking feature of an intravascular device according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0015] Figure 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a proximal connection portion and locking feature of an intravascular device according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0016] Figure 6 is a schematic top view of an intravascular device according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0017] Figure 7 is a schematic side view of an intravascular sensing system including an intravascular device according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0018] Figure 8 is a schematic perspective top view of an intravascular system showing a connector in an open position according to the present disclosure.

[0019] Fig. 9 is a schematic top cross-sectional view of a connector according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0020] Fig.10 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a connecting portion, a locking section, and a knob or retaining section of a flexible, elongated member according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0021] Fig.11The present invention shows various aspects of the present invention. Fig.10 A cross-sectional view of a connecting portion of a flexible elongated member as seen along line AA where section AA is taken.

[0022] Fig. 12A is a schematic cross-sectional view of a connecting portion, a locking section, and a knob or retaining section of a flexible, elongated member according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0023] Fig. 12B is a schematic cross-sectional view of a connecting portion, a locking section, and a knob or retaining section of a flexible, elongated member according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0024] Fig.13 The present invention shows various aspects of the present invention. Fig. 12A and / or Fig. 12B A cross-sectional view of a connecting portion of a flexible elongated member as seen along the line of section BB taken therein.

[0025] Fig.14 is a schematic top view of a connector of an intravascular system according to aspects of the present disclosure when the connector is in an open position.

[0026] Fig.15 is a schematic side cross-sectional view of a connector according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0027] Fig.16 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a connecting portion, a locking section, and a knob or retaining section of a flexible, elongated member according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0028] Fig.17 The present invention shows a plurality of aspects of the present invention. Fig.16 A cross-sectional view of a connecting portion of a flexible elongated member as seen along the line of section CC taken therein.

[0029] Fig.18 is a schematic top view of a connector of an intravascular system according to aspects of the present disclosure when the connector is in an open position.

[0030] Fig.19 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of a connector according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0031] Fig. 20 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a connecting portion, a locking section, and a knob or retaining section of a flexible, elongated member according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0032] Fig.21 The present invention shows a plurality of aspects of the present invention. Fig. 20A cross-sectional view of the knob or retaining section of the flexible elongated member as seen along the line of section DD taken therein.

[0033] Fig. 22 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a connecting portion, a locking section, and a knob or retaining section of a flexible, elongated member according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0034] Fig.23 The present invention shows a plurality of aspects of the present invention. Fig. 22 A cross-sectional view of the knob or retaining section of the flexible elongated member as seen along line EE through which section EE is taken.

[0035] Fig.24 is a schematic top view of a connector of an intravascular system according to aspects of the present disclosure when the connector is in an open position.

[0036] Fig.25 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of a connector according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0037] Fig.26 According to various aspects of the present disclosure Fig.25 Schematic enlarged view of a portion of the connector in.

[0038] Fig. 27 is a schematic top view of a locking clip according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0039] Fig.28 is a schematic proximal view of a locking clip according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0040] Fig.29 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a connecting portion, a locking section, and a knob or retaining section of a flexible, elongated member according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0041] Fig.30 The present invention shows a plurality of aspects of the present invention. Fig.29 A cross-sectional view of the connecting portion of a flexible elongated member as seen along the line of section FF taken therein. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0042] The present invention discloses an intraluminal device, which advantageously utilizes magnetic alignment to properly position the proximal end of a sensing guide wire in a connector. One or more magnets are positioned at strategic locations in the connection portion and / or connector of a flexible, slender member of the sensing guide wire. The key position of the magnet pulls the flexible, slender member downward into the recess of the connector, and positions the flexible, slender member so that the locking section is aligned in the groove, and the conductive portion is longitudinally aligned with the open comb-shaped electrical contacts separated from the connector. Performing alignment utilizes such strategically placed magnets, and provides the correct use of the locking core feature in the connector, and thus reduces the risk of misconnection and damage to the proximal end of the flexible, slender member.

[0043] These descriptions are provided for exemplary purposes only and should not be considered as limiting the scope of the present disclosure. Some features may be added, deleted or modified without departing from the spirit of the claimed subject matter.

[0044] For the purpose of promoting an understanding of the principles of the present disclosure, reference will now be made to the embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings, and specific language will be used to describe the above embodiments. However, it should be understood that it is not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. Any changes and further modifications to the described devices, systems and methods, as well as any further applications of the principles of the present disclosure, are fully contemplated and included in the present disclosure, as would normally occur to a person skilled in the art related to the present disclosure. Specifically, it is fully contemplated that the features, components and / or steps described with respect to one embodiment may be combined with the features, components and / or steps described with respect to other embodiments of the present disclosure. However, for the purpose of brevity, the numerous repetitions of these combinations will no longer be described separately.

[0045] As used herein, "flexible, elongated member" or "elongated flexible member" includes at least any thin, long, flexible structure that can be inserted into the vascular system of a patient. Although the illustrated embodiments of the "flexible, elongated member" of the present disclosure have a cylindrical profile having a circular cross-sectional profile that defines the outer diameter of the flexible, elongated member, in other cases, all or a portion of the flexible, elongated member may have other geometric cross-sectional profiles (e.g., oval, rectangular, square, elliptical, etc.) or non-geometric cross-sectional profiles. Flexible, elongated members include, for example, intravascular catheters and intravascular guidewires. In this regard, the intravascular catheter may or may not include a lumen extending along its length for receiving and / or guiding other instruments. If the intravascular catheter includes a lumen, the lumen may be centered or offset relative to the cross-sectional profile of the device.

[0046] In most embodiments, the flexible, elongated member of the present disclosure includes one or more electronic, optical or electro-optical components. For example, but not limited to, the flexible, elongated member may include one or more of the following types of components: pressure sensors, flow sensors, temperature sensors, imaging elements, optical fibers, ultrasonic transducers, reflectors, mirrors, prisms, ablation elements, radio frequency (RF) electrodes, conductors and / or combinations thereof. Typically, these components are configured to obtain data related to the blood vessel or other parts of the anatomical structure in which the flexible, elongated member is placed. Typically, these components are also configured to transmit data to an external device for processing and / or display. In some aspects, embodiments of the present disclosure include imaging devices for imaging within the lumen of a blood vessel, including medical and non-medical applications. However, some embodiments of the present disclosure are particularly suitable for use in the context of the human vascular system. Imaging of the intravascular space (especially the inner wall of the human vascular system) can be accomplished by a variety of different technologies, including ultrasound (commonly referred to as intravascular ultrasound ("IVUS") and intracardiac echocardiography ("ICE")) and optical coherence tomography ("OCT"). In other cases, infrared imaging modes, thermal imaging modes, or other imaging modes are utilized. In addition, in some cases, the flexible elongated member includes a plurality of electronic components, optical components, and / or electro-optical components (e.g., pressure sensors, temperature sensors, imaging elements, optical fibers, ultrasonic transducers, reflectors, mirrors, prisms, ablation elements, RF electrodes, conductors, etc.).

[0047] The electronic components, optical components and / or electro-optical components of the present disclosure are generally placed in the distal portion of the flexible, elongated member. As used herein, the "distal portion" of the flexible, elongated member includes any portion of the flexible, elongated member from the midpoint to the distal end. Because the flexible, elongated member can be solid, some embodiments of the present disclosure will include a housing portion for receiving the electronic components at the distal portion. Such a housing portion can be a tubular structure attached to the distal portion of the elongated member. Some flexible, elongated members are tubular and have one or more lumens, in which the electronic components can be positioned in the distal portion.

[0048] The electronic components, optical components and / or electro-optical components and associated communication lines are sized and shaped so that the diameter of the flexible, slender member is very small. For example, the outer diameter of a slender member (e.g., a guidewire, a catheter, or a guidewire catheter) containing one or more electronic components, optical components, and / or electro-optical components as described herein is between about 0.0007″ (0.0178 mm) and about 0.118″ (3.0 mm), wherein the outer diameter of some specific embodiments is about 0.014″ (0.3556 mm) and about 0.018″ (0.4572 mm). Thus, in addition to the lumen that partially or directly surrounds the heart, the flexible, slender member containing the electronic components, optical components, and / or electro-optical components of the present application is also suitable for use in a variety of lumens in the human patient's body, including veins and arteries of the limbs, renal arteries, blood vessels in and around the brain, and other lumens.

[0049] As used herein, "connected" and variations thereof include direct connections (eg, glued or otherwise directly fastened to, onto, within, etc., another element) and indirect connections (wherein one or more elements are disposed between connected elements).

[0050] As used herein, "secured" and variations thereof include methods of directly securing one element to another element (e.g., being glued or otherwise directly fastened to, on, within, etc. another element) as well as indirect techniques of securing two elements together (wherein one or more elements are disposed between the secured elements).

[0051] First refer to Figure 1 , which shows an intravascular system 100 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. In this regard, the intravascular system includes an intravascular device 102 and a connector 104. As will be discussed in more detail below, a communication cable 105 extends from the connector 104 in a direction coaxial or parallel to the longitudinal axis of the intravascular device 102. Because the communication cable 105 extends coaxially or parallel to the intravascular device, the connector 104 and the communication cable 105 are less likely to get caught on the patient, the patient's clothing, medical equipment (including tubes, catheters, wires, wires), and / or other structures in the operating room when the intravascular device 102 is manipulated.

[0052] Now refer to Figure 2, a side view of an intravascular device 102 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is provided. As shown, the intravascular device 102 includes a flexible elongated member 106 having a distal portion 107 adjacent to a distal end 108 and a proximal portion 109 adjacent to a proximal end 110. A sensor 112 is positioned within the distal portion 107 of the flexible elongated member 106 proximal to the distal end 108. Typically, the sensor 112 represents one or more electronic components, optical components, or electro-optical components. In this regard, the sensor 112 may include a pressure sensor, a flow sensor, a temperature sensor, an imaging element, an optical fiber, an ultrasonic transducer, a reflector, a mirror, a prism, an ablation element, an RF electrode, a conductor, and / or a combination thereof. A specific type of component or combination of components may be selected based on the intended use of the intravascular device. In some cases, the sensor 112 is positioned less than 10 cm, less than 5 cm, or less than 3 cm from the distal end 108. In some cases, the sensor 112 is positioned within the housing of the intravascular device 102. In this regard, the housing, in some cases, can be a separate component that is secured to the flexible elongated member 106. In other cases, the housing can be integrally formed as part of the flexible elongated member 106.

[0053] The intravascular device 102 also includes a connecting portion 114 adjacent to the proximal portion 109 of the device. In this regard, the connecting portion 114 can be spaced apart from the proximal end 110 of the flexible elongated member 106 by a distance 116. Typically, the distance 116 is between 0% and 50% of the total length of the flexible elongated member 106. Although the total length of the flexible elongated member can be any length, in some embodiments, the total length is between about 1300 mm and about 4000 mm, and some specific embodiments have a length of 1400 mm, 1200 mm, and 3000 mm. In some cases, the connecting portion 114 is spaced apart from the proximal end 110 by about 0 mm to about 1400 mm. In some specific embodiments, the connecting portion 114 is spaced apart from the proximal end by a distance of 0 mm, 300 mm, and 1400 mm. Therefore, in some cases, the connecting portion 114 is positioned at the proximal end 110. In some such embodiments, one or more aspects of the engagement and alignment features of the intravascular device 102 discussed below are positioned distally of the connecting portion 114, rather than distally of the connecting portion 114. Figure 2 The embodiment shown in FIG. 1 is positioned proximal to the connecting portion 114 , or the engagement and alignment features may be omitted entirely.

[0054] exist Figure 2In the illustrated embodiment, the intravascular device 102 includes a locking section 118 that extends proximally from the connecting portion 114 to a knob or retaining section 120 that extends to the proximal end 110. In the illustrated embodiment, the knob or retaining section 120 is trimmed to the proximal end 110. In other embodiments, the knob or retaining section 120 has a tapered, curved, and / or other varying profile as it extends proximally to the proximal end 110. In this regard, in some cases, the outer profile and / or diameter of the knob or retaining section 120 decreases as it extends proximally to the proximal end 110, so that the reduced profile and / or diameter of the proximal end facilitates easier introduction of one or more other instruments on the intravascular device. In other embodiments, the knob or retaining section 120 has a constant profile as it extends proximally to the proximal end 110. Because the knob or retaining section 120 is located proximal to the locking section 118, it is sometimes referred to as a proximal section.

[0055] As shown, the connecting portion 114 has a diameter 122 (or other similar measurements of the outer cross-sectional profile for non-circular cross-sectional embodiments), while the locking segment 118 has a diameter 124 (again, or other similar measurements of the outer cross-sectional profile for non-circular cross-sectional embodiments). The diameter 124 of the locking segment 118 is different from the diameter 122 of the connecting portion 114. In this regard, the different sizes of the diameters 122, 124 form a structure that is configured to facilitate alignment and / or connection of the intravascular device 102 to a connector, such as the connector 104. In the illustrated embodiment, the diameter 124 of the locking segment 118 is smaller than the diameter 122 of the connecting portion 114. In some embodiments, the diameter 124 of the locking segment 118 is between about 40% and about 80% of the diameter 122, with some specific embodiments being about 42%, 64%, and / or other percentages of the diameter 122. In this regard, in some embodiments, the diameter 122 of the connecting portion 114 is between about 0.0178 mm and about 3.0 mm, with some specific embodiments being 0.3556 mm (0.014"), 0.4572 mm (0.018"), and 0.889 mm (0.035"). Accordingly, in some embodiments, the diameter 124 of the locking segment 118 is between about 0.007 mm and about 2.4 mm, with some specific embodiments being 0.186 mm (0.0073"), 0.23 mm, and 0.50 mm. In the illustrated embodiment, the diameter of the knob or retaining segment 120 is approximately equal to the diameter 122, and is therefore greater than the diameter 124. However, in other embodiments, the diameter of the knob or retaining segment 120 is greater than the diameter 122, less than the diameter 122, greater than the diameter 124, equal to the diameter 124, and / or less than the diameter 124. In some embodiments, the locking segment 118 is a section of core wire that extends through the connecting portion 114. The locking section 118 and the knob or retaining section 120 together may sometimes be referred to as a locking feature.

[0056] like Figure 2As shown in FIG, locking segment 118 extends proximally from connecting portion 114 a distance 126, while knob or retaining segment 120 extends a distance 128 from locking segment 118 to proximal end 110. Distances 126 and 128 together equal distance 116, and connecting portion 114 is spaced apart from proximal end 110 of intravascular device 102 by distance 116. In some cases, distance 126 is between about 0.508 mm (0.020") and about 2.54 mm (0.10"), with some specific embodiments being 0.762 mm (0.030"), 1.016 mm (0.040"), and 1.524 mm (0.060"). In addition, although in the illustrated embodiment the transition between connecting portion 114 and locking section 118 and the transition between locking section 118 and knob or retaining section 120 are shown as being stepped, in other embodiments the transition is tapered and / or otherwise causes the outer diameter to gradually change along the length of the intravascular device. In some In embodiments, the use of a tapered and / or gradually changing transition portion results in the proximal portion of the intravascular device 102 not having any sharp edges. In some embodiments, the use of a tapered and / or gradually changing transition portion for one or both of the transition portions between the locking segment 118 and the connecting portion 114 or the knob or retaining segment 120 makes it easier to clean the proximal portion of the device (e.g., to remove any liquid or other unwanted material on the surface of the proximal portion of the intravascular device). In some embodiments, the intravascular system 100 may include one or more features described in U.S. patent application No. 15 / 374,312, entitled “SIDE-LOADING CONNECTORS FOR USE WITH INTRAVASCULAR DEVICES AND ASSOCIATED SYSTEMS AND METHODS,” filed on December 9, 2016, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0057] The connecting portion 114 is configured to facilitate communication between the intravascular device 102 and another device. More specifically, in some embodiments, the connecting portion 114 is configured to facilitate communication of data obtained by the sensor 112 to another device (e.g., a computing device or processor). Therefore, in some embodiments, the connecting portion 114 includes one or more conductive portions. In some embodiments, the connecting portion 114 may include a conductive strip, ring, coating, coil, etc. In some cases, the connecting portion 114 includes one or more electrical connectors or conductive portions, as described in the patent application entitled “INTRAVASCULAR DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND SYSTEMS” filed on June 28, 2013. METHODS) described in U.S. Patent Application No. 13 / 931,052, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. In other embodiments, the connecting portion 114 includes an optical connector. In this case, the connecting portion 114 provides an optical connection to one or more optical communication paths (e.g., fiber optic cables), which extend along the length of the flexible elongated member 106 and are optically coupled to the sensor 112. In addition, in some embodiments, the connecting portion 114 provides electrical and optical connections to one or more electrical conductors and one or more optical communication paths coupled to the sensor 112. In this regard, it should be noted again that in some cases, the sensor 112 may include multiple elements. In some cases, the connecting portion 114 may be configured to provide a physical connection to another device directly or indirectly. In other cases, the connecting portion 114 may be configured to facilitate wireless communication between the intravascular device 102 and another device. Generally, any current or future developed wireless protocol can be utilized. In other cases, the connecting portion 114 facilitates physical and wireless connections to another device.

[0058] As described above, in some cases, the connection portion 114 provides a connection between the sensor 112 of the intravascular device 102 and an external device. Thus, in some embodiments, one or more electrical conductors, one or more optical pathways, and / or combinations thereof extend along the length of the flexible elongated member 106 between the connection portion 114 and the sensor 112 to facilitate communication between the connection portion 114 and the sensor 112. In general, any number of electrical conductors, optical pathways, and / or combinations thereof may extend along the length of the flexible elongated member 106 between the connection portion 114 and the sensor 112. In some cases, one to ten electrical conductors (or conductive portions) and / or optical pathways extend along the length of the flexible elongated member 106 between the connection portion 114 and the sensor 112. For clarity and simplicity, the embodiments of the present disclosure described below include three electrical conductors, and therefore, the connection portion 114 is described as having three separate conductive portions corresponding to the three electrical conductors.

[0059] In some embodiments, the flexible elongated member 106 includes a plurality of core wires. For example, the flexible elongated member 106 may include a proximal core wire (or proximal core) and a distal core wire (or distal core) attached to each other. The components associated with the proximal portion of the intravascular device 102 (e.g., including the proximal core wire) may be referred to as a proximal subassembly, and the components associated with the distal portion of the intravascular device 102 (e.g., including the distal core wire) may be referred to as a distal subassembly. The flexible elongated member may refer to one or more components of the proximal subassembly and / or the distal subassembly. In some embodiments, the flexible elongated member 106 includes features as described in U.S. patent application No. 13 / 931,052, entitled “INTRAVASCULAR DEVICE, SYSTEM AND METHODS,” filed on June 28, 2013, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0060] For example, Figure 3 As shown in , in some cases, the connecting portion 114 of the intravascular device 102 includes conductive portions 132, 134, and 136, which are separated from each other and from the body of the flexible elongated member 106 by insulating portions 138, 140, 142, and 144, wherein the insulating portion 114 is adjacent to the locking section 118. In this regard, the conductive portions 132, 134, and 136 are formed of a conductive material, and in some cases, are multiple portions of a hypotube, a coil, a conductive ink, a conductive coating formed on a tubular member, and / or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the conductive portions 132, 134, and 136 include features as described in U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 143,304, entitled "INTRAVASCULAR DEVICE, SYSTEM AND METHODS," filed on December 30, 2013, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. It should be understood that in other embodiments, the total number of communication paths and / or the number of electrical conductors and / or optical paths is different, and therefore, the number of conductive portions (or optical connectors) included in the connecting portion is also different. More specifically, the number of communication paths extending along the length of the flexible slender member 106 and the number of electrical conductors and optical paths can be selected based on the intended function of the sensor 112 and the corresponding elements that define the sensor 112 to provide such function. As a result, the number and type of connections provided by the connecting portion 114 are also determined by the intended function of the sensor 112, the corresponding elements that define the sensor 112 to provide such function, and the communication requirements of such elements. In addition, in some cases, one or more of the insulating portions 138, 140, 142 and 144 are omitted. For example, as Figure 4In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 1 , the insulating portion 144 has been omitted.

[0061] Now refer to Figure 5 , which shows a schematic cross-sectional view of a connecting portion 114, a locking section 118, and a knob or retaining section 120 of an intravascular device 102 according to aspects of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the connecting portion 114 includes three conductive portions 132, 134, and 136, which are separated from each other and from the body of the flexible, elongated member by insulating portions 138, 140, and 142. Because the conductive portions 132, 134, and 136 and the insulating portions 138, 140, and 142 are in the shape of an annulus surrounding the periphery of the flexible, elongated member, their cross-sections appear on either side of the connecting portion 114. One, more than one, or all of the conductive portions 132, 134, and 136 are electrically connected to corresponding conductors or conductive elements (e.g., conductive wires 30, 40, 50). In Figure 5 In the example shown in , the conductive portion 132 is electrically coupled to the conductive wire 30, the conductive portion 134 is electrically coupled to the conductive wire 40, and the conductive portion 136 is electrically coupled to the conductive wire 50. In some cases, the conductive wires 30, 40, and 50 are positioned within an open space 182 defined by a hypotube 184 that forms part of the flexible elongated member. The conductive wires 30, 40, and 50 are electrically coupled to the sensor and extend proximally through the flexible elongated member. In some embodiments, the flexible elongated member includes a metal core 150 extending through the connecting portion 114. In some embodiments, the locking section 118 and the knob or retaining section 120 are part of an integral component referred to as a locking core 160. The locking core 160 is separated from the metal core 150 and attached to the proximal end of the connecting portion 114 by welding at the interface 10 with the conductive portion 136 and at the interface 20 with the proximal end of the metal core 150.

[0062] Now refer to Figure 6, which shows a schematic top view of an intravascular device 102 according to aspects of the present disclosure. The intravascular device 102 can be an intravascular guidewire sized and shaped to be positioned within a patient's blood vessel. The intravascular device 102 can include a sensor 112. For example, the sensor 112 can be a pressure sensor configured to measure blood flow pressure within a patient's blood vessel. The intravascular device 102 includes a flexible, elongated member 106. The sensor 112 is disposed at a distal portion 107 of the flexible, elongated member 106. In some embodiments, the sensor 112 can be mounted at the distal portion 107 within a housing 280. A flexible end coil 290 extends between the housing 280 and the distal end 108. A connecting portion 114 is disposed at a proximal portion 109 of the flexible, elongated member 106. The connecting portion includes conductive portions 132, 134, 136, which are separated from each other and from the body of the flexible, elongated member by insulating portions 138, 140, 142, and 144. In some embodiments, the conductive portions 132, 134, 136 can be conductive inks printed and / or deposited around the flexible elongated member. In some embodiments, the conductive portions 132, 134, 136 are conductive metal rings positioned around the flexible elongated member. The locking section 118 and the knob or retaining section 120 are disposed at the proximal portion 109 of the flexible elongated member 106.

[0063] Figure 6 The intravascular device 102 in the embodiment includes a distal core 210 and a proximal core 220. The distal core 210 and the proximal core 220 are metal components that form part of the body of the intravascular device 102. For example, the distal core 210 and the proximal core 220 are flexible metal rods that provide a structure for the flexible elongated member 106. The diameter of the distal core 210 and the proximal core 220 can vary along their length.

[0064] In some embodiments, the intravascular device 102 includes a distal component and a proximal component that are electrically and mechanically connected together, which results in electrical communication between the sensor 112 and the conductive portions 132, 134, 136. For example, pressure data obtained by the sensor 112 (in this example, the sensor 112 is a pressure sensor) can be transmitted to the conductive portions 132, 134, 136. Control signals from a computer in communication with the intravascular device 102 can be transmitted to the sensor 112 via the conductive portions 132, 134, 136. The distal subassembly may include a distal core 210. The distal subassembly may also include the sensor 112, a conductive member 230, and / or one or more layers of polymer / plastic 240 surrounding the conductive member 230 and the core 210. For example, the polymer / plastic layer may protect the conductive member 230. The proximal subassembly may include a proximal core 220. The proximal subassembly may also include one or more polymer layers 250 (hereinafter referred to as polymer layer 250) surrounding the proximal core 220 and / or a conductive tape 260 embedded in the one or more polymer layers 250. In some embodiments, the proximal subassembly and the distal subassembly may be manufactured separately. During the assembly process of the intravascular device 102, the proximal subassembly and the distal subassembly may be electrically and mechanically connected together. As used herein, a flexible, elongated member may refer to one or more components along the entire length of the intravascular device 102, one or more components of the proximal subassembly (e.g., including the proximal core 220, etc.) and / or one or more components of the distal subassembly 210 (e.g., including the distal core 210, etc.).

[0065] In various embodiments, the intravascular device 102 may include one, two, three, or more core wires extending along its length. For example, a single core wire may extend substantially along the entire length of the flexible elongated member 106. In such embodiments, the locking section 118 and the knob or retaining section 120 may be integrally formed at a proximal portion of the single core wire. The sensor 112 may be secured to a distal portion of the single core wire. In other embodiments (e.g., Figure 6In the embodiment shown in ), the locking section 118 and the knob or retaining section 120 may be integrally formed at the proximal portion of the proximal core 220. The sensor 112 may be fixed to the distal portion of the distal core 210. The intravascular device 102 includes one or more conductive members 230 in communication with the sensor 112. For example, the conductive member 230 may be one or more wires directly in communication with the sensor 112. In some cases, the conductive member 230 is electrically and mechanically connected to the sensor 112 by, for example, welding. In some cases, the conductive member 230 includes two or three wires (e.g., a two-wire cable or a three-wire cable). A single wire may include a bare metal conductor surrounded by one or more insulating layers. The conductive member 230 may extend along the length of the distal core 210. For example, at least a portion of the conductive member 230 may be spirally wound around the distal core 210.

[0066] The intravascular device 102 includes one or more conductive strips 260 at the proximal portion of the flexible elongated member 106. The conductive strips 260 are embedded in the polymer layer 250. The conductive strips 260 are in direct communication with the conductive portions 132, 134, and / or 136. In some cases, the conductive member 230 is electrically and mechanically coupled to the sensor 112 by, for example, welding. In some cases, the conductive portions 132, 134, and / or 136 include conductive inks (e.g., metal nano-inks, such as silver or gold nano-inks) deposited or printed directly on the conductive strips 260.

[0067] As described herein, electrical communication may be established between the conductive member 230 and the conductive ribbon 260 at the connection region 270 of the flexible elongated member 106. By establishing electrical communication between the conductive member 230 and the conductive ribbon 260, the conductive portions 132, 134, 136 may be placed in electrical communication with the sensor 112.

[0068] In by Figure 6 In some embodiments shown, the intravascular device 102 includes a locking section 118 and a knob or retaining section 120. Figure 5 Unlike the locking core 160 (including the locking section 118 and the knob or retaining section 120) welded to the metal core, Figure 6 The locking section 118 and the knob or retaining section 120 in the proximal core 220 are integral with each other. In order to form the locking section 118, a machining process is required to remove the polymer layer 250 and the conductive tape 260 in the locking section 118 and to form the proximal core 220 into the desired shape in the locking section 118. Figure 6, the locking segment 118 has a reduced diameter, while the knob or retaining segment 120 has a diameter substantially similar to the diameter of the proximal core 220 in the connecting portion 114. In some cases, since the machining process removes the conductive tape in the locking segment 118, the proximal end of the conductive tape 260 will be exposed to moisture and / or liquid (e.g., blood, saline solution, disinfectant and / or enzymatic cleaning solution), and thus an insulating layer 158 is formed on the proximal portion of the connecting portion 114 to insulate the exposed conductive tape.

[0069] Figure 7 1 is a schematic side view of an intraluminal (e.g., intravascular) sensing system 100 according to aspects of the present disclosure, the intraluminal sensing system 100 including an intravascular device 102, the intravascular device 102 including a conductive member 230 (e.g., a multi-wire conductor bundle) and a conductive band 260. The intravascular device 102 can be an intravascular guidewire that is sized and shaped to be positioned within a patient's blood vessel. The intravascular device 102 includes a distal tip 108 and a sensor 113. For example, the sensor 113 can be a pressure sensor and / or a flow sensor configured to measure blood flow pressure within a patient's blood vessel, or can be other types of sensors, including but not limited to temperature or imaging sensors, or a combination of sensors that measure more than one characteristic. For example, flow data obtained by the flow sensor can be used to calculate physiological variables, such as coronary flow reserve (CFR). The intravascular device 102 includes a flexible, elongated member 106. The sensor 113 is disposed at a distal portion 107 of the flexible, elongated member 106. In some embodiments, the sensor 113 may be mounted at the distal portion 107 within the housing 280. The flexible end coil 290 extends distally from the housing 282 at the distal portion 107 of the flexible elongated member 106. The connecting portion 114 disposed at the proximal end of the flexible elongated member 106 includes conductive portions 132, 134. In some embodiments, the conductive portions 132, 134 may be conductive ink printed and / or deposited around the connecting portion 114 of the flexible elongated member 106. In some embodiments, the conductive portions 132, 134 are conductive and may be metal bands or rings positioned around the flexible elongated member. The locking area is formed by a collar, or the locking section 118 and the knob or retaining section 120 are disposed at the proximal portion 109 of the flexible elongated member 106.

[0070] Figure 7The intravascular device 102 in the embodiment includes a core wire, which includes a distal core 210 and a proximal core 220. The distal core 210 and the proximal core 220 are metal parts that form a part of the body of the intravascular device 102. For example, the distal core 210 and the proximal core 220 can be flexible metal rods that provide the structure of the flexible elongated member 106. The distal core 210 and / or the proximal core 220 can be made of metal or metal alloy. For example, the distal core 210 and / or the proximal core 220 can be made of stainless steel, nitinol alloy, nickel-cobalt-chromium-molybdenum alloy (e.g., MP35N) and / or other suitable materials. In some embodiments, the distal core 210 and the proximal core 220 are made of the same material. In other embodiments, the distal core 210 and the proximal core 220 are made of different materials. The diameters of the distal core 210 and the proximal core 220 can vary along their respective lengths. The joint between distal core 210 and proximal core 220 is surrounded and contained by hypotube 215. In some cases, sensor 113 may be positioned at the distal end of distal core 210.

[0071] In some embodiments, the intravascular device 102 includes a distal subassembly and a proximal subassembly that are electrically and mechanically connected together so that electrical communication is established between the sensor 113 and the conductive portions 132, 134. For example, flow data obtained by the sensor 113 (in this example, the sensor 113 is a flow sensor) can be transmitted to the conductive portions 132, 134. In an exemplary embodiment, the sensor 113 is a single ultrasonic transducer element. The transducer element transmits an ultrasonic signal and receives an echo. The transducer element generates an electrical signal representing the echo. The signal transmission line transmits the electrical signal from the sensor located at the distal portion to the connector located at the proximal portion. The processing system 306 processes these electrical signals to extract the flow rate of the fluid.

[0072] Control signals from a processing system 306 (e.g., a processor circuit of the processing system 306) in communication with the intravascular device 102 may be transmitted to the sensor 113 via a connector 314 attached to the conductive portions 132, 134. The distal subassembly may include a distal core 210. The distal subassembly may also include the sensor 113, a conductive member 230, and / or one or more layers of insulating polymer / plastic 240 surrounding the conductive member 230 and the core 210. For example, the polymer / plastic layer may insulate and protect the conductive members in a multi-wire cable or conductor bundle 230. The proximal subassembly may include a proximal core 220. The proximal subassembly may also include one or more layers of polymer 250 (hereinafter referred to as polymer layer 250) surrounding the proximal core 220 and / or a conductive tape 260 embedded in one or more insulating and / or protective polymer layers 250. In some embodiments, the proximal subassembly and the distal subassembly are manufactured separately. During the assembly process of the intravascular device 102, the proximal subassembly and the distal subassembly can be electrically and mechanically connected together. As used herein, the flexible slender member may refer to one or more components along the entire length of the intravascular device 102, one or more components of the proximal subassembly (e.g., including the proximal core 220, etc.) and / or one or more components of the distal subassembly 410 (e.g., including the distal core 210, etc.). Therefore, the flexible slender member may refer to the above-mentioned combined proximal and distal subassemblies. The joint between the proximal core 220 and the distal core 210 is surrounded by the hypotube 215.

[0073] In various embodiments, the intravascular device 102 may include one, two, three, or more core wires extending along its length. For example, a single core wire may extend substantially along the entire length of the flexible elongated member 106. In such embodiments, the locking segment 118 and the segment 120 may be integrally formed at a proximal portion of the single core wire. The sensor 113 may be secured to a distal portion of the single core wire. In other embodiments, for example, Figure 7In the embodiment shown in , the locking segment 118 and the segment 120 may be integrally formed at the proximal portion of the proximal core 220. The sensor 113 may be fixed at the distal portion of the distal core 210. The intravascular device 102 includes one or more conductive members 230 (e.g., a multi-wire conductor bundle or cable) in communication with the sensor 113. For example, the conductive member 230 may be one or more wires directly in communication with the sensor 113. In some cases, the conductive member 230 is electrically and mechanically coupled to the sensor 113 by, for example, welding. In some cases, the conductor bundle 230 includes two or three wires (e.g., a two-wire cable or a three-wire cable). A single wire may include a bare metal conductor surrounded by one or more insulating layers. The conductive member 230 may extend along the length of the distal core 210. For example, at least a portion of the conductive member 230 may be spirally wound around the distal core 210, thereby minimizing or eliminating the swing of the distal core in a tortuous anatomical structure.

[0074] Intravascular device 102 includes one or more conductive strips 260 located at the proximal portion of flexible elongated member 106. Conductive strips 260 are embedded within polymer layer 250. Conductive strips 260 are in direct communication with conductive portions 132 and / or 134. In some cases, multi-wire conductor bundle 230 is electrically and mechanically coupled to sensor 113 by, for example, welding. In some cases, conductive portions 132 and / or 134 include conductive inks (e.g., metal nano-inks, such as copper, silver, gold, or aluminum nano-inks) deposited or printed directly on conductive strips 260.

[0075] As described herein, electrical communication between conductive member 230 and conductive ribbon 260 may be established at connection portion 114 of flexible elongated member 106. By establishing electrical communication between conductor bundle 230 and conductive ribbon 260, conductive portions 132, 134 may be in electrical communication with sensor 113.

[0076] In by Figure 7 In some embodiments shown, the intravascular device 102 includes a locking segment 118 and a knob or retaining segment 120. To form the locking segment 118, a machining process is used to remove the polymer layer 250 and the conductive tape 260 in the locking segment 118 and to form the proximal core 220 in the locking segment 118 into a desired shape. Figure 7 As shown, the locking section 118 includes a reduced diameter, while the knob or retaining section has a diameter substantially similar to the diameter of the proximal core 220 in the connecting portion 114. In some cases, since the machining process removes the conductive tape in the locking section 118, the proximal end of the conductive tape 260 will be exposed to moisture and / or liquid (e.g., blood, saline solution, disinfectant and / or enzymatic cleaning solution), forming an insulating layer 158 on the proximal portion of the connecting portion 114 to insulate the exposed conductive tape 260.

[0077] In some embodiments, connector 314 provides electrical connection between conductive portions 132, 134 and patient interface monitor 304. In some cases, patient interface monitor (PIM) 304 may be connected to a console or processing system 306 that includes or is in communication with a display 308.

[0078] System 100 can be deployed in a catheterization lab having a control room. Processing system 306 can be located in the control room. Alternatively, processing system 306 can be located elsewhere, such as in the catheterization lab itself. The catheterization lab can include a sterile area, and its associated control room can be sterile, or can be non-sterile, depending on the procedure to be performed and / or on the medical facility. In some embodiments, device 102 can be controlled from a remote location such as a control room, so that an operator does not need to be close to the patient.

[0079] The intraluminal device 102, PIM 304, and display 308 may be communicatively coupled to a processing system 306, either directly or indirectly. These elements may be communicatively coupled to the medical processing system 306 via a wired connection (e.g., a standard copper multi-wire conductor bundle 230). The processing system 306 may be communicatively coupled to one or more data networks (e.g., a TCP / IP-based local area network (LAN)). In other embodiments, different protocols may be used, such as a synchronous optical network (SONET). In some cases, the processing system 306 may be communicatively coupled to a wide area network (WAN).

[0080] The PIM 304 transmits the received signals to a processing system 306 where the information is processed and displayed (e.g., as physiological data in graphical, symbolic, or alphanumeric form) on a display 308. The console or processing system 306 may include a processor and memory. The processing system 306 may be operable to facilitate the functionality of the intravascular sensing system 100 described herein. For example, the processor may execute computer-readable instructions stored on a non-transitory tangible computer-readable medium.

[0081] The PIM 304 facilitates signal communication between the processing system 306 and the intraluminal device 102. The PIM 304 can be communicatively positioned between the processing system 306 and the intraluminal device 102. In some embodiments, preliminary processing of the data is performed before forwarding the data to the processing system 306. In examples of such embodiments, the PIM 304 performs amplification, filtering, and / or aggregation of the data. In one embodiment, the PIM 304 also provides high and low voltage DC power through the conductive member 230 to support the operation of the intraluminal device 102.

[0082] The multi-wire cable or transmission harness 230 may include multiple conductors, including one, two, three, four, five, six, seven or more conductors. Figure 7 In the example shown, the multi-wire conductor bundle 230 includes: two straight sections 232 and 236, where the multi-wire conductor bundle 230 is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the flexible elongated member 106; and a spiral section 234, where the multi-wire conductor bundle 230 is wrapped around the outside of the flexible elongated member 106 and then coated with an insulating and / or protective polymer 240. Communication along the multi-wire conductor bundle 230, if any, can be carried out by a variety of methods or protocols, including serial, parallel, and other ways, where one or more wires of the bundle 230 transmit signals. One or more wires of the multi-wire conductor bundle 230 can also transmit direct current (DC) power, alternating current (AC) power, or serve as a ground connection.

[0083] The display or monitor 308 can be a display device, such as a computer monitor or other type of screen. The display or monitor 308 can be used to display selectable prompts, instructions, and visual representations of imaging data to the user. In some embodiments, the display 308 can be used to provide the user with a process-specific workflow to complete the intraluminal imaging process.

[0084] Figure 8 is a schematic perspective top view of an intravascular system according to the present disclosure showing a connector in an open position. Figure 8 , which shows various aspects of an intravascular system 800 having an intravascular device 102 and a connector 104 according to the present disclosure. The connector 104 includes a component 804 and a component 806. The component 804 includes a recess 808, which is sized and shaped to receive the intravascular device 102. The component 806 can move relative to the component 804. Specifically, the component 806 can slide relative to the component 804 to facilitate the insertion of the intravascular device 102 into the connector 104, and then the connector is engaged with the received intravascular device, which results in one or more electrical connections between the intravascular device and the connector. The sliding movement of the component 806 relative to the component 804 can be parallel to the longitudinal axis of the component 804 and / or the longitudinal axis of the intravascular device received in the connector 104. The communication cable 105 extends from the connector 104 so that the communication cable 105 is coaxial or parallel to the intravascular device 102 received in the connector 104.

[0085] Fig. 9A schematic cross-sectional view of the connector 104 is shown. In some embodiments, the component 806 includes separate, open comb-shaped electrical contacts 932A, 932B, 934A, 934B, and 936. The component 804 includes a locking clip 200. The locking clip 200 includes a slot 201 that is sized and shaped to receive the locking drive 118, while the segment 120 is located proximal to the locking clip 200. When the connecting portion 114 is received in the recess 208 and the locking segment 118 is received in the slot 201, the conductive portion 132 is aligned with the electrical contacts 932A and 932B along the relative movement direction between the component 204 and the component 206. Similarly, along the same movement direction, the conductive portion 134 is aligned with the electrical contacts 934A and 934B and the conductive portion 136 is aligned with the electrical contact 936. In some embodiments, conductive portions 132, 134, and 136 are separated by insulating portions 138, 140, and 142. In some cases, connecting portion 114 also includes insulating portion 144 located distal to locking segment 118. Because locking segment 118 has a reduced diameter compared to segment 120 and insulating portion 144 (or conductive portion 136, if insulating portion 144 is not present), connecting portion 114 is prevented from moving distally or proximally along its length.

[0086] In addition, when component 806 is translated from the open position toward the closed position relative to component 804, the open comb-like electrical contacts are particularly suitable for facilitating proper electrical connection between connector 104 and the intravascular device 102 positioned in recess 808 of component 804. Further, the open comb-like structure allows the intravascular device to rotate relative to the connector while maintaining proper electrical connection. Therefore, the open comb-like structure allows a user (e.g., a surgeon) to keep connector 104 connected to the intravascular device while moving or advancing the intravascular device through the vascular system, and there is almost no resistance to the rotational movement of the intravascular device. In other words, the intravascular device can be moved through the vascular system, thereby experiencing a variety of twists and turns without the connector 104 moving with the rotation of the intravascular device. Moreover, since each contact has multiple fingers, the open comb-like structure helps to ensure good electrical contact. In addition, the open end of the open comb-like structure provides good guidance for ensuring that the intravascular device is correctly positioned when component 806 is closed. While a number of advantages of an open comb configuration have been described, it should be understood that any appropriately sized electrical contact may be utilized, including a single contact or multiple contacts.

[0087] Before continuing, it should be noted that the above examples are provided for purposes of illustration and are not intended to be limiting. Other devices and / or device configurations may be utilized to perform the operations described herein.

[0088] Fig.10 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a connection portion 114, a locking section 118, and a knob or retaining section 120 of a flexible elongated member 106 according to aspects of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the connection portion 114 includes three conductive portions 132, 134, and 136 separated from each other and from the body of the flexible elongated member by insulating portions 138, 140, 142, and 144. Since the conductive portions 132, 134, and 136 and the insulating portions 138, 140, 142, and 144 are in the shape of a ring around the perimeter of the flexible elongated member, their cross-sections appear on either side of the connection portion 114. In some embodiments, one or more magnets may be embedded within the polymer layer of the connection portion 114. For example, magnet 1012 may be embedded in polymer layer 180 in insulating portion 138, magnet 1014 may be embedded in polymer layer 180 in insulating portion 140, magnet 1016 may be embedded in polymer layer 180 in insulating portion 142, and magnet 1018 may be embedded in polymer layer 180 in insulating portion 144. In some embodiments, magnets 1012, 1014, 1016, and 1018, when combined with magnets in connector 104, as described below, pull flexible elongated member 106 downward into recess 208 so that flexible elongated member 106 is positioned within recess 208 of connector 140, locking section 118 is positioned to align with slot 201, and conductive portions 132, 134, and 136 are longitudinally aligned with separate open comb electrical contacts 932A, 932B, 934A, 934B, and 936 of connector 104. In some embodiments, magnets 1012, 1014, 1016, and 1018 are attracted to metal in connector 104, thereby pulling flexible elongated member 106 downward into recess 208, so that flexible elongated member 106 is positioned within recess 208 of connector 140, locking section 118 is positioned to align with slot 201, and conductive portions 132, 134, and 136 are longitudinally aligned with separate open-comb electrical contacts 932A, 932B, 934A, 934B, and 936 of connector 104. In some cases, insulating portions 138, 140, 142, and 144 may be sections or regions of a polymer layer 180 (such as a polymer layer having conductive tape embedded therein) (rather than separate components).

[0089] Fig.11 The present invention shows a plurality of aspects of the present invention. Fig.10FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of a connection portion 114 of a flexible elongated member 106 as seen along the line of section AA taken therein. In some embodiments, the connection portion 114 includes a metal core 150, conductive ribbons 260, and a polymer layer 180 that insulates the conductive ribbons 260 from each other and also from the metal core 150. In some embodiments, one or more magnets may be embedded within the polymer layer 180 of the connection portion 114. For example, the magnet 1012 may be embedded within the polymer layer 180.

[0090] Fig. 12A and Fig. 12B is a schematic cross-sectional view of a connecting portion 114 , a locking section 118 , and a knob or retaining section 120 of a flexible elongated member 106 , according to aspects of the present disclosure. Fig.13 The present invention shows a plurality of aspects of the present invention. Fig. 12A and / or Fig. 12B A cross-sectional view of the connecting portion 114 of the flexible elongated member 106 as seen along the line of section BB taken therein. Fig. 12A , Fig. 12B and Fig.13 Included with Fig.10 and Fig.11 Features similar to those described in . Fig. 12A , Fig. 12B and Fig.13 In some embodiments, magnets 1212, 1214, 1216, and 1218 are formed into a circular ring shape around the perimeter of connecting portion 114. In some embodiments, magnet 1212, when combined with magnets 1214, 1216, and 1218 and when combined with magnets in connector 104, as described below, pulls flexible elongated member 106 downward into recess 208 so that flexible elongated member 106 is positioned within recess 208 of connector 140, locking section 118 is positioned to align with slot 201, and conductive portions 132, 134, and 136 are longitudinally aligned with separate open comb electrical contacts 932A, 932B, 934A, 934B, and 936 of connector 104. In some embodiments, the magnets 1012, 1014, 1016 and 1018 are attracted to the metal in the connector 104, thereby pulling the flexible slender member 106 downward into the recess 208, so that the flexible slender member 106 is positioned within the recess 208 of the connector 140, the locking section 118 is positioned to align with the slot 201, and the conductive portions 132, 134 and 136 are longitudinally aligned with the separate open comb electrical contacts 932A, 932B, 934A, 934B and 936 of the connector 104.

[0091] Fig. 12B and Fig. 12A The difference is that Fig. 12B The connection part 114 is Fig. 12A The connecting portion 114 in is longer (eg, larger in the longitudinal direction). Fig. 12B 134, 136. In some cases, magnets 1212, 1214, 1216, and 1218 may be directly adjacent to conductive portions 132, 134, and 136. In some cases, magnets 1212, 1214, 1216, and 1218 may be directly adjacent to conductive portions 132, 134, and 136. In some cases, magnets 1212, 1214, 1216, and 1218 may be directly adjacent to conductive portions 132, 134, and 136. The outer surfaces of the magnets 1212 , 1214 , 1216 , and 1218 , the outer surfaces of the conductive portions 132 , 134 , and 136 , and the outer surfaces of the insulating portions 138 - 144 may be continuous with one another.

[0092] In general, although there are a plurality of magnets 1212 , 1214 , 1216 , and 1218 , the connecting portion 114 may include one, two, three, four, or more magnets.

[0093] In some cases, the magnet can be placed directly around Fig.13 The core wire 150 in the magnet body is arranged so that the magnet directly contacts the core wire 150 .

[0094] Now refer to Fig.14 , which shows a schematic top view of the connector 104 of the intravascular system 100 (when the connector is in an open position) according to various aspects of the present disclosure. Fig.14The example connector 104 shown in FIG. 1 includes a component 204 and a component 206. Component 204 includes a recess 208 that is sized and shaped to receive the connecting portion 114 of the flexible elongated member 106. Component 206 is movable relative to component 204. Specifically, component 206 is slidable relative to component 204 to facilitate the insertion of the intravascular device 102 into the connector 104 and subsequently engage the connector 104 with the received intravascular device 102, which results in one or more electrical connections being formed between the intravascular device 102 and the connector 104. The sliding movement of component 206 relative to component 204 can be parallel to the longitudinal axis of component 204 and / or the longitudinal axis of the intravascular device 102 received in the connector 104. Component 204 includes a locking clip 200. Locking clip 200 includes a slit 201 that is sized and shaped to receive the locking drive 118, while segment 120 is proximal to the locking clip 200.

[0095] In some embodiments, one or more magnets may be positioned within the connector 104. For example, when the intravascular device 102 is inserted into the connector 104, the magnets 1412, 1414, 1416, and 1418 may be positioned below the corresponding areas where the insulating portions 138, 140, 142, and 144 of the connecting portion 114 of the flexible elongated member 106 will be positioned. In some embodiments, the magnets 1412, 1414, 1416, and 1418 are advantageously positioned adjacent to or proximate to the conductive portions 132, 134, and 136. In some embodiments, the magnets 1412, 1414, 1416, and 1418 have a polarity opposite to the polarity of the magnets 1012, 1014, 1016, and 1018 in the connecting portion 114 of the flexible elongated member 106. Thus, in some embodiments, the magnetic attraction between magnets 1412, 1414, 1416 and 1418 and magnets 1012, 1014, 1016 and 1018 pulls the flexible slender member 106 downward into the recess 208, so that the flexible slender member 106 is positioned within the recess 208 of the connector 140, the locking section 118 is positioned to align with the slot 201, and the conductive portions 132, 134 and 136 are longitudinally aligned with the separate open comb electrical contacts 932A, 932B, 934A, 934B and 936 of the connector 104. In some embodiments, magnets 1412, 1414, 1416 and 1418 attract metal in the intravascular device 102, thereby pulling the flexible slender member 106 downward into the recess 208, so that the flexible slender member 106 is positioned within the recess 208 of the connector 140, the locking section 118 is positioned to align with the groove 201, and the conductive portions 132, 134 and 136 are longitudinally aligned with the separate open comb electrical contacts 932A, 932B, 934A, 934B and 936 of the connector 104.

[0096] Fig.15 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of a connector 104 according to aspects of the present disclosure. Fig.15 1 shows how the conductive portions engage the separated open comb-shaped electrical contacts 232A, 232B, 234A, 234B, and 236, and how the locking section 118 is received in the slot 201 of the locking clip 200. In some cases, each electrical contact has two arms that bend upward and two arms that bend downward. Each electrical contact may also have more or fewer arms that bend in different directions. For example, each electrical contact may have one or three arms that bend upward and one or three arms that bend downward. In some embodiments, the slot 201 extends through half the height of the locking clip 200. Advantageously, the engagement of the locking section 118 and the slot 201 of the locking clip 200 ensures a reliable electrical connection between the conductive portions 132, 134, and 136 of the connecting portion 114 and the separated open comb-shaped electrical contacts 232A, 232B, 234A, 234B, and 236 in the connector 104. In some embodiments, magnets 1412, 1414, 1416, and 1418 have polarities opposite to the polarities of magnets 1012, 1014, 1016, and 1018 in connecting portion 114 of flexible elongated member 106. Thus, in some embodiments, magnetic attraction between magnets 1412, 1414, 1416, and 1418 and magnets 1012, 1014, 1016, and 1018 pulls flexible elongated member 106 downward into recess 208, so that flexible elongated member 106 is positioned within recess 208 of connector 140, locking segment 118 is positioned to align with slot 201, and conductive portions 132, 134, and 136 are longitudinally aligned with separate open comb electrical contacts 932A, 932B, 934A, 934B, and 936 of connector 104. In some embodiments, magnets 1412, 1414, 1416 and 1418 attract metal in the intravascular device 102, thereby pulling the flexible slender member 106 downward into the recess 208, so that the flexible slender member 106 is positioned within the recess 208 of the connector 140, the locking section 118 is positioned to align with the groove 201, and the conductive portions 132, 134 and 136 are longitudinally aligned with the separate open comb electrical contacts 932A, 932B, 934A, 934B and 936 of the connector 104.

[0097] Fig.16 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a connecting portion 114 , a locking section 118 , and a knob or retaining section 120 of a flexible elongated member 106 , according to aspects of the present disclosure. Fig.17 The present invention shows a plurality of aspects of the present invention. Fig.16A cross-sectional view of the connecting portion 114 of the flexible slender member 106 as seen along the line of section CC taken therein. Fig.16 and Fig.17 Included with Fig.10 and Fig.11 Features similar to those described in . Fig.16 In the embodiment of the present invention, magnet 1612 may be embedded in polymer layer 180 in conductive portion 132, magnet 1614 may be embedded in polymer layer 180 in conductive portion 134, and magnet 1616 may be embedded in polymer layer 180 in conductive portion 146. Fig.17 In some embodiments, magnet 1612 may be embedded in polymer layer 180 where conductive portion 132 is electrically coupled to one of two conductive strips 260 via electrical connector 1702. In some embodiments, magnet 1612, when combined with magnets 1614 and 1616 and when combined with magnets in connector 104, as described below, pulls flexible elongated member 106 downward into recess 208 so that flexible elongated member 106 is positioned within recess 208 of connector 140, locking section 118 is positioned to align with slot 201, and conductive portions 132, 134, and 136 are longitudinally aligned with separate open comb electrical contacts 932A, 932B, 934A, 934B, and 936 of connector 104. In some embodiments, magnet 1612, when combined with magnets 1614 and 1616, is attracted to metal in connector 104, thereby pulling flexible elongated member 106 downward into recess 208, so that flexible elongated member 106 is positioned within recess 208 of connector 140, locking section 118 is positioned to align with slot 201, and conductive portions 132, 134 and 136 are longitudinally aligned with separate open comb electrical contacts 932A, 932B, 934A, 934B and 936 of connector 104.

[0098] Fig.18 is a schematic top view of the connector 104 of the intravascular system 100 when the connector is in an open position according to aspects of the present disclosure. Fig.18 Included with Fig.14 Features similar to those described in . Fig.18In some embodiments, one or more magnets may be positioned within the connector 104 such that the magnets 1812, 1814, and 1816 may be aligned with the split open comb electrical contacts 932A, 932B, 934A, 934B, and 936. The magnet 1812 may be positioned between the split open comb electrical contacts 932A and 932B, the magnet 1814 may be positioned between the split open comb electrical contacts 934A and 934B, and the magnet 1816 may be positioned offset relative to the split open comb electrical contacts 936. In some embodiments, the magnets 1812, 1814, and 1816 have a polarity that is opposite to the polarity of the magnets 1612, 1614, and 1616 in the connecting portion 114 of the flexible elongated member 106. Thus, in some embodiments, the magnetic attraction between the magnets 1812, 1814, and 1816 and the magnets 1612, 1614, and 1616 pulls the flexible elongated member 106 downward into the recess 208, so that the flexible elongated member 106 is positioned within the recess 208 of the connector 140, the locking section 118 is positioned to align with the slot 201, and the conductive portions 132, 134, and 136 are longitudinally aligned with the separate open comb electrical contacts 932A, 932B, 934A, 934B, and 936 of the connector 104. In some embodiments, magnets 1812, 1814, and 1816 attract metal in the intravascular device 102, thereby pulling the flexible, elongated member 106 downward into the recess 208, so that the flexible, elongated member 106 is positioned within the recess 208 of the connector 140, the locking section 118 is positioned to align with the groove 201, and the conductive portions 132, 134, and 136 are longitudinally aligned with the separate open comb electrical contacts 932A, 932B, 934A, 934B, and 936 of the connector 104.

[0099] Fig.19 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of a connector 104 according to aspects of the present disclosure. Fig.19 Included with Fig.15In some embodiments, magnets 1812, 1814, and 1816 have polarities opposite to the polarities of magnets 1612, 1614, and 1616 in connecting portion 114 of flexible elongated member 106. Thus, in some embodiments, the magnetic attraction between magnets 1812, 1814, and 1816 and magnets 1612, 1614, and 1616 pulls flexible elongated member 106 downward into recess 208, so that flexible elongated member 106 is positioned within recess 208 of connector 140, locking segment 118 is positioned to align with slot 201, and conductive portions 132, 134, and 136 are longitudinally aligned with separate open comb electrical contacts 932A, 932B, 934A, 934B, and 936 of connector 104. In some embodiments, magnets 1812, 1814, and 1816 attract metal in the intravascular device 102, thereby pulling the flexible elongated member 106 downward into the recess 208, so that the flexible elongated member 106 is positioned within the recess 208 of the connector 140, the locking section 118 is positioned to align with the groove 201, and the conductive portions 132, 134, and 136 are longitudinally aligned with the separate open comb electrical contacts 932A, 932B, 934A, 934B, and 936 of the connector 104.

[0100] Fig. 20 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a connecting portion 114 , a locking section 118 , and a knob or retaining section 120 of a flexible elongated member 106 , according to aspects of the present disclosure. Fig.21 The present invention shows a plurality of aspects of the present invention. Fig. 20 A cross-sectional view of the knob or retaining section 120 of the flexible elongate member 106 as seen along the line of section DD taken therein. Fig. 20 and Fig.21 Included with Fig.10 and Fig.11 Features similar to those described in . Fig. 20 In the embodiment of FIG. 1 , the magnets 2020 and 2022 are formed into annular ring shapes around the periphery of the metal core 150 of the locking section 118 and the knob or retaining section 120, respectively. Fig.21In some embodiments, the magnet 2022 is formed into a ring shape around the perimeter of the metal core 150 of the knob or retaining section 120. In some embodiments, the magnet 2022, when combined with the magnet 2020 and when combined with a magnet in the connector 104, as described below, pulls the flexible elongated member 106 downward into the recess 208 so that the flexible elongated member 106 is positioned within the recess 208 of the connector 140, the locking section 118 is positioned to align with the slot 201, and the conductive portions 132, 134, and 136 are longitudinally aligned with the separate open comb electrical contacts 932A, 932B, 934A, 934B, and 936 of the connector 104. In some embodiments, the magnet 2022, when combined with the magnet 2020, is attracted to the metal in the connector 104, thereby pulling the flexible slender member 106 downward into the recess 208, so that the flexible slender member 106 is positioned within the recess 208 of the connector 140, the locking section 118 is positioned to align with the slot 201, and the conductive portions 132, 134 and 136 are longitudinally aligned with the separate open comb electrical contacts 932A, 932B, 934A, 934B and 936 of the connector 104.

[0101] Fig. 22 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a connecting portion 114 , a locking section 118 , and a knob or retaining section 120 of a flexible elongated member 106 , according to aspects of the present disclosure. Fig.23 The present invention shows a plurality of aspects of the present invention. Fig. 22 A cross-sectional view of the knob or retaining section 120 of the flexible elongated member 106 as seen along the line of section EE taken therein. Fig. 22 and Fig.23 Included with Fig.10 and Fig.11 Features similar to those described in . Fig. 22 In the embodiment of FIG. 1 , the magnet 224 is formed with a locking section 118 and a knob or retaining section 120 and is disposed at the proximal portion 109 of the flexible elongated member 106 . Fig.23In some embodiments, the magnet 2224 is a solid magnet. In some embodiments, the magnet 2224, when combined with a magnet in the connector 104, as described below, pulls the flexible elongated member 106 downward into the recess 208, so that the flexible elongated member 106 is positioned within the recess 208 of the connector 140, the locking section 118 is positioned to align with the slot 201, and the conductive portions 132, 134, and 136 are longitudinally aligned with the separated open comb-shaped electrical contacts 932A, 932B, 934A, 934B, and 936 of the connector 104. In some embodiments, the magnet 2224 is attracted to metal in the connector 104, thereby pulling the flexible slender member 106 downward into the recess 208, so that the flexible slender member 106 is positioned within the recess 208 of the connector 140, the locking section 118 is positioned to align with the open comb groove 201, and the conductive portions 132, 134 and 136 are longitudinally aligned with the separate open comb electrical contacts 932A, 932B, 934A, 934B and 936 of the connector 104.

[0102] Fig.24 is a schematic top view of the connector 104 of the intravascular system 100 when the connector is in an open position according to aspects of the present disclosure. Fig.24 Included with Fig.14 Features similar to those described in . Fig.24In some embodiments, one or more magnets may be positioned within the connector 104 such that the magnet 2420 is disposed below the locking clip 200 and the magnet 2422 is disposed proximate to the locking clip 200. In some embodiments, the magnets 2420 and 2422 have a polarity opposite to the polarity of the magnets 2020 and 2022 in the connecting portion 114 of the flexible elongated member 106. Thus, in some embodiments, the magnetic attraction between the magnets 2420 and 2422 and the magnets 2020 and 2022 pulls the flexible elongated member 106 downward into the recess 208, so that the flexible elongated member 106 is positioned within the recess 208 of the connector 140, the locking section 118 is positioned to align with the slot 201, and the conductive portions 132, 134, and 136 are longitudinally aligned with the separated open comb electrical contacts 932A, 932B, 934A, 934B, and 936 of the connector 104. In some embodiments, the magnet 2422 has a polarity opposite to the polarity of the magnet 2224 in the connecting portion 114 of the flexible elongated member 106. Therefore, in some embodiments, the magnetic attraction between the magnet 2422 and the magnet 2224 pulls the flexible elongated member 106 downward into the recess 208, so that the flexible elongated member 106 is positioned within the recess 208 of the connector 140, the locking section 118 is positioned to align with the slot 201, and the conductive portions 132, 134, and 136 are longitudinally aligned with the separated open comb electrical contacts 932A, 932B, 934A, 934B, and 936 of the connector 104. In some embodiments, magnets 2420 and / or 2422 are attracted to metal in the intravascular device 102, thereby pulling the flexible slender member 106 downward into the recess 208, so that the flexible slender member 106 is positioned within the recess 208 of the connector 140, the locking section 118 is positioned to align with the groove 201, and the conductive portions 132, 134 and 136 are longitudinally aligned with the separate open comb electrical contacts 932A, 932B, 934A, 934B and 936 of the connector 104.

[0103] Fig.25 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of a connector 104 according to aspects of the present disclosure. Fig.25 Included with Fig.15In some embodiments, the magnets 2420 and 2422 have polarities opposite to the polarities of the magnets 2020 and 2022 in the connecting portion 114 of the flexible elongated member 106. Therefore, the magnetic attraction between the magnets 2420 and 2422 and the magnets 2020 and 2022 pulls the flexible elongated member 106 downward into the recess 208, so that the flexible elongated member 106 is positioned within the recess 208 of the connector 140, the locking section 118 is positioned to align with the slot 201, and the conductive portions 132, 134, and 136 are longitudinally aligned with the separated open comb electrical contacts 932A, 932B, 934A, 934B, and 936 of the connector 104. In some embodiments, magnets 2420 and / or 2422 are attracted to metal in the intravascular device 102, thereby pulling the flexible slender member 106 downward into the recess 208, so that the flexible slender member 106 is positioned within the recess 208 of the connector 140, the locking section 118 is positioned to align with the groove 201, and the conductive portions 132, 134 and 136 are longitudinally aligned with the separate open comb electrical contacts 932A, 932B, 934A, 934B and 936 of the connector 104.

[0104] To further illustrate the details of the locking clip 200, a proximal portion of the connector 104 according to aspects of the present disclosure is enlarged and Fig.26201. In some embodiments, the locking clip 200 includes a top 205 that is inclined proximally at a certain inclination angle. The inclination angle is defined between a plane in which the top 205 is located and a plane in which the rest of the locking clip 200 is located. In some embodiments, the inclination angle is 10 to 90 degrees. Once the locking segment 118 is received in the slot 201 of the locking clip 200, the proximally inclined top 205 prevents the locking segment 118 from sliding upward out of the slot 201. Advantageously, the engagement of the locking segment 118 with the slot 201 of the locking clip 200 ensures reliable electrical connection between the conductive portions 132, 134, and 136 of the connecting portion 114 and the separate open comb-shaped electrical contacts 232A, 232B, 234A, 234B, and 236 in the connector 104. Similarly, magnet 2420 is disposed below locking clip 200 and magnet 2422 is disposed close to locking clip 200 so that in some embodiments, magnets 2020 and 2022 and / or magnet 2224 are attracted to magnet 2420 and / or magnet 2422, thereby pulling flexible elongated member 106 downward into recess 208 and positioning it within recess 208 of connector 140, locking section 118 is positioned to align with slot 201, and conductive portions 132, 134 and 136 are longitudinally aligned with separate open comb electrical contacts 932A, 932B, 934A, 934B and 936 of connector 104. In some embodiments, metal in the intravascular device 102 is attracted to magnet 2420 and / or magnet 2422, thereby pulling the flexible slender member 106 downward into recess 208 and positioning it within recess 208 of connector 140, with the locking section 118 positioned to align with slot 201 and the conductive portions 132, 134 and 136 longitudinally aligned with the separate open comb electrical contacts 932A, 932B, 934A, 934B and 936 of connector 104.

[0105] Fig. 27 According to various aspects of the present disclosure, Fig.26Schematic top view of the locking clip 200 viewed from the direction T shown. In some embodiments, the locking segment 118 includes a distal sub-segment 168, an intermediate sub-segment 170, and a proximal sub-segment 178. When the locking segment 118 is received in the slit 201 of the locking clip 200, the movement of the locking segment 118 relative to the locking clip 200 is limited to the length of the intermediate sub-segment 170. The proximally inclined top 205 can engage the proximal portion 178 and the segment 120 to prevent the locking segment 118 from sliding out of the slit 201. Similarly, magnet 2420 is disposed below locking clip 200 and magnet 2422 is disposed close to locking clip 200 so that in some embodiments, magnets 2020 and 2022 and / or magnet 2224 are attracted to magnet 2420 and / or magnet 2422, thereby pulling flexible elongated member 106 downward into recess 208 and positioning it within recess 208 of connector 140, locking section 118 is positioned to align with slot 201, and conductive portions 132, 134 and 136 are longitudinally aligned with separate open comb electrical contacts 932A, 932B, 934A, 934B and 936 of connector 104. In some embodiments, metal in the intravascular device 102 is attracted to magnet 2420 and / or magnet 2422, thereby pulling the flexible slender member 106 downward into recess 208 and positioning it within recess 208 of connector 140, with the locking section 118 positioned to align with slot 201 and the conductive portions 132, 134 and 136 longitudinally aligned with the separate open comb electrical contacts 932A, 932B, 934A, 934B and 936 of connector 104.

[0106] Fig.28 According to various aspects of the present disclosure, Fig.26Schematic proximal view of the locking clip 200 viewed from the direction P shown. In some cases, the locking section 118 is received in the slit 201 of the locking clip 200. The top 205 is inclined proximally at a certain inclination angle. In some embodiments, the slit 201 extends through half of the height of the locking clip 200. In some embodiments, the magnet 2020 in the flexible elongated member 106 is attracted to the magnet 2420 disposed below the locking clip 200, so that the flexible elongated member 106 is pulled downward into the recess 208 and positioned in the recess 208 of the connector 140, the locking section 118 is positioned to align with the slot 201, and the conductive portions 132, 134 and 136 are longitudinally aligned with the separated open comb-shaped electrical contacts 932A, 932B, 934A, 934B and 936 of the connector 104. In some embodiments, metal in the intravascular device 102 is attracted to a magnet 2420 disposed below the locking clip 200, so that the flexible, elongated member 106 is pulled downward into the recess 208 and positioned within the recess 208 of the connector 140, the locking section 118 is positioned to align with the groove 201, and the conductive portions 132, 134, and 136 are longitudinally aligned with the separate open comb-shaped electrical contacts 932A, 932B, 934A, 934B, and 936 of the connector 104.

[0107] Fig.29 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a connecting portion 114 , a locking section 118 , and a knob or retaining section 120 of a flexible elongated member 106 , according to aspects of the present disclosure. Fig.29 May include Fig.10 , Fig. 12A , Fig. 12B , Fig.16 , Fig. 20 and / or Fig. 22 Aspects similar to those described. Fig.30 The present invention shows a plurality of aspects of the present invention. Fig.29 A cross-sectional view of the connecting portion 114 of the flexible slender member 106 as seen along the line of section FF taken therein. Fig.30 May include Fig.11 , Fig.13 , Fig.17 , Fig.21 and / or Fig.23 Aspects similar to those described. Fig.29 and Fig.30It is shown that the conductive portions 138, 140, 142, 144 and the magnets 1012, 1014, 1016, 1018 can be the same corresponding parts. For example, the conductive strip used to transmit electrical signals is a magnet. That is, the conductive portion 138 and the magnet 1012 are the same part, the conductive portion 140 and the magnet 1014 are the same part, the conductive portion 142 and the magnet 1016 are the same part, and / or the conductive portion 144 and the magnet 1018 are the same part. In some cases, such as Fig.30 As shown, one identical component (conductive portion 144 and magnet 1018) completely surrounds and contacts core wire 150. In some cases, space is provided radially between one identical component (conductive portion 144 and magnet 1018) and core wire 150.

[0108] Thus, it can be seen that the inclusion of magnets at strategic locations in the connection portion of the flexible elongated member of the intravascular device and / or at the connector can pull the flexible elongated member down into the recess of the connector and position the flexible elongated member so that the locking section is aligned within the slot and the conductive portion is longitudinally aligned with the separate open comb-like electrical contacts of the connector. This can tend to provide correct use of the locking core feature within the connector and thus reduce the risk of misconnection and damage to the proximal end of the flexible elongated member.

[0109] The logical operations that make up the embodiments of the technology described herein are variously referred to as operations, steps, objects, elements, components, or modules. In addition, it should be understood that these operations can be arranged or performed in any order, unless explicitly required otherwise, or the required language inherently requires a specific order. It should also be understood that the technology can be used for disposable and multiple-use medical or non-medical electrical and electronic devices.

[0110] All directional references, such as, up, down, inside, outside, upward, downward, left, right, side, front, back, top, bottom, above, below, vertical, horizontal, clockwise, counterclockwise, proximal and distal, are used only for identification purposes to help the reader understand the claimed subject matter and do not create limitations, especially for the position, orientation or use of various aspects of the present disclosure. References to connection, such as attachment, connection, connection and engagement, should be interpreted broadly and may include intermediate members located between a collection of elements and relative movement between elements, unless otherwise specified. Therefore, references to connection do not necessarily mean that two elements are directly connected and in a fixed relationship with each other. The term "or" should be interpreted as "and / or", not "exclusively or". Unless otherwise specified in the claims, the numerical values ​​stated should be interpreted as merely illustrative and should not be regarded as restrictive. The word "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, and the indefinite article "one" or "an" does not exclude a plurality. Unless otherwise stated in the claims, the stated numerical values ​​should be interpreted as illustrative only and should not be regarded as limiting.

[0111] The above specification, examples, and data provide a complete description of the structure and use of exemplary embodiments of the various aspects of the disclosure as defined in the claims. Although various embodiments of the claimed subject matter have been described above with a certain degree of specificity, or with reference to one or more individual embodiments, those skilled in the art may make numerous modifications to the various embodiments disclosed without departing from the spirit or scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0112] Other embodiments are also contemplated. It is intended that all matter contained in the above description and shown in the accompanying drawings shall be interpreted as illustrative only of specific embodiments and not limiting. Modifications may be made in detail or structure without departing from the essential elements of the subject matter as defined in the following claims.

Claims

1. A system comprising: An intravascular guidewire, comprising: a flexible, elongated member configured for positioning within a blood vessel of a patient, wherein the flexible, elongated member comprises a proximal portion and a distal portion; a sensor disposed at the distal portion of the flexible, elongated member, wherein the sensor is configured to obtain medical data related to the blood vessel when the flexible, elongated member is positioned within the blood vessel; a guidewire electrical contact disposed at the proximal portion of the flexible elongated member, wherein the guidewire electrical contact is in electrical communication with the sensor; A connector configured to be removably coupled to the intravascular guidewire, wherein the connector comprises: a slot configured to receive the proximal portion of the flexible elongated member; and a connector electrical contact configured to contact the guidewire electrical contact to establish electrical communication with the sensor when the proximal portion of the flexible elongated member is received within the slot, wherein at least one of the proximal portion of the guidewire and the connector comprises a magnet, Wherein, the magnet is configured to facilitate at least one of the following: positioning the proximal portion of the flexible elongated member within the slot; and The guidewire electrical contacts are aligned with the connector electrical contacts.

2. The system according to claim 1, in, The connector includes the magnet, and Wherein, the magnet is arranged below the slot.

3. The system according to claim 1, in, The connector includes the magnet, Wherein, the magnet is arranged close to the connector electrical contact.

4. The system according to claim 3, wherein: The magnets are aligned with the connector electrical contacts.

5. The system according to claim 3, wherein: The magnet is offset relative to the connector electrical contact.

6. The system according to claim 3, in, The connector includes a plurality of connector electrical contacts, Wherein, the magnet is arranged between the plurality of connector electrical contacts.

7. The system according to claim 3, in, The connector includes a plurality of magnets and a plurality of connector electrical contacts, Wherein, the plurality of magnets are arranged close to the plurality of connector electrical contacts.

8. The system according to claim 1, in, The proximal portion of the flexible elongated member includes a first section having a first diameter and a second section having a second diameter smaller than the first diameter, Wherein, the connector comprises: the magnet; and a locking feature configured to engage the second diameter of the second segment, Wherein, the magnet is arranged to be close to the locking feature.

9. The system according to claim 8, wherein: The magnet is disposed proximal to the locking feature.

10. The system according to claim 1, in, The connector includes the magnet, wherein the proximal portion of the flexible elongated member comprises a further magnet, Therein, the magnet and the further magnet are arranged such that opposite polarities of the magnet and the further magnet attract each other.

11. The system according to claim 10, wherein: The further magnet is disposed proximate to the guidewire electrical contact.

12. The system according to claim 11, wherein: The further magnet is aligned with the guidewire electrical contact.

13. The system according to claim 11, wherein: The additional magnet is offset relative to the guidewire electrical contact.

14. The system according to claim 10, in, The proximal portion of the flexible elongated member terminates at a proximal end, Therein, the further magnet is proximal to the proximal end.

15. A system comprising: An intravascular guidewire, comprising: a flexible, elongated member configured for positioning within a blood vessel of a patient, wherein the flexible, elongated member comprises a proximal portion and a distal portion; at least one of a pressure sensor and a flow sensor disposed at the distal portion of the flexible, elongated member and configured to obtain at least one of pressure data and flow data associated with the blood vessel when the flexible, elongated member is positioned within the blood vessel; a guidewire electrical contact disposed at the proximal portion of the flexible elongated member, wherein the guidewire electrical contact is in electrical communication with at least one of the pressure sensor and the flow sensor; A connector configured to be removably coupled to the intravascular guidewire, wherein the connector comprises: a slot configured to receive the proximal portion of the flexible elongated member; and a connector electrical contact configured to contact the guidewire electrical contact when the proximal portion of the flexible elongated member is received within the slot to establish electrical communication with at least one of the pressure sensor and the flow sensor, wherein at least one of: The proximal portion of the guidewire includes a magnet proximate the guidewire electrical contact; and The connector comprises a further magnet proximate to the connector electrical contacts, Wherein, at least one of the magnet and the additional magnet is configured to facilitate alignment of the guidewire electrical contact and the connector electrical contact.

16. A system comprising: An intravascular guidewire, comprising: a flexible, elongated member configured for positioning within a blood vessel of a patient, wherein the flexible, elongated member comprises a proximal portion and a distal portion, wherein the proximal portion comprises a first segment having a first diameter and a second segment having a second diameter less than the first diameter; at least one of a pressure sensor and a flow sensor disposed at the distal portion of the flexible, elongated member and configured to obtain at least one of pressure data and flow data associated with the blood vessel when the flexible, elongated member is positioned within the blood vessel; a guidewire electrical contact disposed at the proximal portion of the flexible elongated member, wherein the guidewire electrical contact is in electrical communication with at least one of the pressure sensor and the flow sensor; A connector configured to be removably coupled to the intravascular guidewire, wherein the connector comprises: a slot configured to receive the proximal portion of the flexible elongated member; a connector electrical contact configured to contact the guidewire electrical contact when the proximal portion of the flexible elongated member is received within the slot to establish electrical communication with at least one of the pressure sensor and the flow sensor; and a locking feature configured to engage the second diameter of the second segment, and Among them, at least one of the following: The proximal portion of the guidewire includes a magnet; and the connector comprising a further magnet proximate the locking feature, Wherein, at least one of the magnet and the additional magnet is configured to facilitate positioning the proximal portion of the flexible, elongated member within the slot.

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