Self-aligning wheel lock mechanism

Abstract

An implant delivery handle includes a thumbwheel, a thumbwheel lock mechanism, and a self-aligning wheel lock mechanism. The thumbwheel is configured to drive advancing and retracting of a sheath over a catheter loaded with an implant such as a stent or a tack. The thumbwheel includes a first outer part and a second inner part inserted into the first outer part. The thumbwheel lock mechanism is configured to lock the thumbwheel by engaging with the second inner part. The self-aligning wheel lock mechanism is configured to guide the thumbwheel lock mechanism into position for locking.

Description

SELF- ALIGNING WHEEL LOCK MECHANISMBACKGROUND

[0001] Stents and tacks are types of implants designed for implant in patients via catheters. A next generation (NG) tack endovascular system (TES) is a peripheral vascular device which treats arterial dissections with an implantable tack following a percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA) procedure. The next generation tack endovascular system is designed to repair tears of the inner wall of an artery in the leg below or above that knee. The next generation tack endovascular system has a handle for controlling the delivery of the tack. The handle of the next generation tack endovascular system has a thumbwheel which, when rotated, causes a belt to move. The belt is attached to a shuttle which moves an outer sheath, otherwise known as an outer catheter, backwards over an inner catheter to deliver the tack.

[0002] Doctors need to be able to lock an implant delivery handle to prevent inadvertent deployment of a stent or tack. Previous attempts to produce locks for an implant delivery handle have encountered problems with fitting parts together, with moving parts that slide apart, with jamming, and with parts breaking or locks that only lock once into position and are not reusable or able to unlock.

[0003] Lock mechanisms must be designed to stop rotation of the thumbwheel. Lock mechanisms also need to fully engage every time the lock is pushed forward and not jam. In other words, lock mechanisms need to fully engage every time the lock is pushed forward and not stop moving forward before the thumbwheel rotation was stopped. The lock mechanism must have the ability to be repeatedly locked and unlocked. The need for such a lock mechanism and ability to not jam and to endure repeated locking and unlocking has provided one or more challenges addressed by the teachings herein.SUMMARY

[0004] According to an aspect of the present disclosure, an implant delivery handle includes a thumbwheel, a thumbwheel lock mechanism, and a self-aligning wheel lock mechanism. The thumbwheel is configured to drive advancing and retracting of a sheath over a catheter loadedwith an implant such as a stent or a tack. The thumbwheel includes a first outer part and a second inner part inserted into the first outer part. The thumbwheel lock mechanism is configured to lock the thumbwheel by engaging with the second inner part. The self-aligning wheel lock mechanism is configured to guide the thumbwheel lock mechanism into position for locking.

[0005] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a thumbwheel includes a first outer part; and a second inner part inserted into the first outer part. The second inner part include a hexagonal part configured to interact with a hexagonal part of a thumbwheel lock mechanism when a thumb grip feature on the hexagonal part of the thumbwheel lock mechanism is activated such that the thumbwheel lock mechanism is configured to lock the thumbwheel.

[0006] According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, an implant delivery handle includes a thumbwheel, a lock, and a ball detent feature. The thumbwheel is configured to drive advancing and retracting of a sheath over a catheter loaded with an implant. The thumbwheel includes a first outer part and a second inner part inserted into the first outer part. The lock is provided with a self-aligning wheel lock mechanism configured to guide the second inner part into alignment with the lock. The ball detent feature keeps the lock from sliding horizontally out of a lock position and out of an unlock position.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] The example embodiments are best understood from the following detailed description when read with the accompanying drawing figures. It is emphasized that the various features are not necessarily drawn to scale. In fact, the dimensions may be arbitrarily increased or decreased for clarity of discussion. Wherever applicable and practical, like reference numerals refer to like elements.

[0008] FIG. 1 illustrates an assembly of a handle for self-aligning wheel lock mechanism, in accordance with a representative embodiment.

[0009] FIG. 2 illustrates an internal handle assembly for self-aligning wheel lock mechanism, in accordance with a representative embodiment.

[0010] FIG. 3 illustrates alignment engagement for self-aligning wheel lock mechanism, in accordance with a representative embodiment.

[0011] FIG. 4 illustrates a lock two-step engagement for self-aligning wheel lock mechanism, in accordance with a representative embodiment.

[0012] FIG. 5 illustrates a ball detent assembly for self-aligning wheel lock mechanism, in accordance with a representative embodiment.

[0013] FIG. 6 illustrates a ball detent feature for self-aligning wheel lock mechanism, in accordance with a representative embodiment.

[0014] FIG. 7A illustrates comprehensive lock features for self-aligning wheel lock mechanism, in accordance with a representative embodiment.

[0015] FIG. 7B illustrates comprehensive lock features for self-aligning wheel lock mechanism from an opposite view relative to FIG. 7A, in accordance with a representative embodiment.

[0016] FIG. 8 illustrates a thumbwheel and insert for self-aligning wheel lock mechanism, in accordance with a representative embodiment.

[0017] FIG. 9 illustrates a thumbwheel insert with extended tips for self-aligning wheel lock mechanism, in accordance with a representative embodiment.

[0018] FIG. 10 illustrates a simplified lock mechanism with a fine-tooth feature for self-aligning wheel lock mechanism, in accordance with a representative embodiment.

[0019] FIG. 11 illustrates a simplified thumbwheel and thumbwheel lock for self-aligning wheel lock mechanism, in accordance with a representative embodiment.

[0020] FIG. 12A illustrates an octagon shape for a thumbwheel insert for self-aligning wheel lock mechanism, in accordance with a representative embodiment.

[0021] FIG. 12B illustrates a hexagonal part for a thumbwheel insert with lugs for self-aligning wheel lock mechanism, in accordance with a representative embodiment.

[0022] FIG. 12C illustrates a lock engagement with tip extensions for a thumbwheel insert for self-aligning wheel lock mechanism, in accordance with a representative embodiment.

[0023] FIG. 12D illustrates a lock engagement with an enclosed end for self-aligning wheel lock mechanism, in accordance with a representative embodiment.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0024] In the following detailed description, for the purposes of explanation and not limitation, representative embodiments disclosing specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments according to the present teachings. However, other embodiments consistent with the present disclosure that depart from specific details disclosed herein remain within the scope of the appended claims. Descriptions of known systems, devices,materials, methods of operation and methods of manufacture may be omitted so as to avoid obscuring the description of the representative embodiments. Nonetheless, systems, devices, materials and methods that are within the purview of one of ordinary skill in the art are within the scope of the present teachings and may be used in accordance with the representative embodiments. It is to be understood that the terminology used herein is for purposes of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. Definitions and explanations for terms herein are in addition to the technical and scientific meanings of the terms as commonly understood and accepted in the technical field of the present teachings.

[0025] It will be understood that, although the terms first, second, third etc. may be used herein to describe various elements or components, these elements or components should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element or component from another element or component. Thus, a first element or component discussed below could be termed a second element or component without departing from the teachings of the inventive concept.

[0026] As used in the specification and appended claims, the singular forms of terms ‘a’, ‘an’ and ‘the’ are intended to include both singular and plural forms, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Additionally, the terms "comprises", and / or "comprising," and / or similar terms when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, elements, components, and / or groups thereof. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0027] Unless otherwise noted, when an element or component is said to be “connected to”, “coupled to”, or “adjacent to” another element or component, it will be understood that the element or component can be directly connected or coupled to the other element or component, or intervening elements or components may be present. That is, these and similar terms encompass cases where one or more intermediate elements or components may be employed to connect two elements or components. However, when an element or component is said to be “directly connected” to another element or component, this encompasses only cases where the two elements or components are connected to each other without any intermediate or intervening elements or components.

[0028] The present disclosure, through one or more of its various aspects, embodiments and / or specific features or sub-components, is thus intended to bring out one or more of the advantagesas specifically noted below.

[0029] As described herein, one or more mechanisms may be used to implement a self-aligning, non-jamming thumbwheel lock mechanism, such as in an implant delivery handle. The thumbwheel lock mechanism may mechanically stop a wheel from rotating without requiring any electrical components or interference between components that could slip and not hold the wheel in place. The thumbwheel lock mechanism may stop a thumbwheel from rotating in an implant delivery handle, though the teachings herein may be applied in contexts outside of implant delivery handles, such as in other devices or applications where a wheel needs to be stopped from rotating. The thumbwheel lock mechanism described herein may be locked and unlocked repeatedly, and not just locked once without an unlock capability.

[0030] FIG. 1 illustrates an assembly of a handle for self-aligning wheel lock mechanism, in accordance with a representative embodiment.

[0031] The handle 100 in FIG. 1 includes a thumbwheel 110, a lock 120, and a catheter 101. The handle 100 includes a left handle half 102 and a right handle half 103 as shown. As detailed below, the thumbwheel 110 may include multiple different improvements that are explained in detail with respect to embodiments shown in other drawings.

[0032] A first improvement provided by the handle 100 is that the thumbwheel 110 may include multiple separable and attachable components including the thumbwheel 110 itself and a thumbwheel insert. The thumbwheel insert may have a hexagonal part and the lock 120 may have a hexagonal part, so that the thumbwheel insert and the lock 120 may be mated, and this results in an ability to stop rotation of the thumbwheel 110. The separability of the thumbwheel insert eliminates a previous issue with a belt slipping in the handle 100, as the thumbwheel insert provides for an internal lip in the handle 100 that the belt cannot slip off of.

[0033] A second improvement provided by the handle 100 is that the thumbwheel insert may also have teeth and the lock 120 may have a secondary fine-tooth feature that engages with the teeth on the thumbwheel insert 115. The engagement between the teeth on the thumbwheel insert and the lock 120 may provide a self-alignment feature that assists the mating between the thumbwheel insert and the lock 120. As the lock 120 is pushed more, the fine-tooth feature on the lock 120 increasingly aligns the thumbwheel insert 115 based on the angular geometry of the fine-tooth on the lock 120. The thumbwheel insert 115 is not called out in FIG. 1, as the thumbwheel insert 115 is enclosed in the handle 100 in the view of FIG. 1.

[0034] A third improvement provided by the handle 100 is a ball detent feature in the handle 100 to keep the lock 120 from sliding horizontally out of the lock or unlock positions.

[0035] These and other improvements will be detailed below.

[0036] FIG. 2 illustrates an internal handle assembly for self-aligning wheel lock mechanism, in accordance with a representative embodiment.

[0037] The handle 200 in FIG. 2 is open so that the features of the left handle half 202 are shown. The handle 200 includes a catheter 201, an outer sheath 204, a thumbwheel 210, a thumbwheel axle 212, a thumbwheel insert 215, a lock 220, a belt 230, a shuttle 235 and a shuttle rail 237.

[0038] Either or both of the thumbwheel 210 and the thumbwheel insert 215 may be centered around the thumbwheel axle 212. When rotated about the thumbwheel axle 212, the thumbwheel 210 causes the belt 230 to move about a set of pulleys. The belt 230 is attached to the shuttle 235, and the shuttle 235 moves the catheter 201 forward and backwards. A lip of the thumbwheel insert 215 is not labelled, but interfaces the belt 230 and the separability of the thumbwheel insert 215 from the thumbwheel 210 ensures that the belt 230 cannot slip off of the thumbwheel insert 215. The separability of the thumbwheel insert 215 eliminates a previous issue with the belt 230 slipping off of the lip.

[0039] To prevent inadvertent deployment of an implant such as a stent or a tack, the mechanism of the lock 220 is designed to stop the rotation of the thumbwheel 210. The lock 220 has a hexagonal shape which defines the interior outline of the lock 220 around the thumbwheel insert 215. The thumbwheel insert 215 has the hexagonal part which mates with the interior outline surface of the lock 220 when the lock 220 is actuated to stop the rotation of the thumbwheel 210.

[0040] FIG. 3 illustrates alignment engagement for self-aligning wheel lock mechanism, in accordance with a representative embodiment.

[0041] The lock 320 may comprise a self-aligning and non-jamming lock mechanism. The thumbwheel insert 315 includes a hexagonal part 317 (labeled “Insert Hex”) which aligns with a hexagonal part defined by the interior outline surface of the lock 320. The hexagonal part 317 of the thumbwheel insert 315 is allowed to move in the interior of the lock 320 when the lock 320 is unlocked. When a thumb grip feature on the top of the lock 320 is pushed forward, an upper extended rib section of the hexagonal part of the lock 320 automatically engages the hexagonal part on the thumbwheel insert 315 and rotates and guides the thumbwheel 310 into alignmentwith the lock 320. That is, when the thumb grip feature of the lock 320 is pushed forward, the lock 320 is pushed forward and engages with the thumbwheel insert 315 to rotate and guide the thumbwheel 310 into alignment. The fine-tooth on the lock 320 (labelled “Lock Fine Tooth”) engages with teeth on the thumbwheel insert 315. The fine-tooth on the lock 320 fits between the teeth on the thumbwheel insert 315. As the lock 320 is pushed more, the fine-tooth on the lock 320 increasingly aligns the thumbwheel insert 315 based on the angular geometry of the fine- tooth on the lock 320.

[0042] The upper extended rib section of the lock 320 is longer than the lower rib section of the lock 320, so that the upper extended rib section engages the hexagonal part on the thumbwheel insert 315 first, and this starts the rotation of the thumbwheel 310 to align to the lock 320. Once aligned with the thumbwheel 310 via the fine-tooth on the lock 320 and the teeth on the thumbwheel insert 315, the lock 320 continues to push forward into the lock position.

[0043] The thumbwheel 310 may consistently rotate in the same direction, such as in a clockwise direction every time the thumbwheel insert 315 is engaged with the lock 320 because of the upper extended rib section being the longer rib section of the lock 320. As shown, the upper extended rib section is on the top of the opening in the lock 320.

[0044] In other words, the lock 320 comprises a thumbwheel lock mechanism with an upper extended rib section and a lower rib section, and the upper extended rib section is longer than the lower rib section so that the upper extended rib section engages the hexagonal part of the thumbwheel insert 315 to start rotation of thumbwheel alignment to the thumbwheel lock mechanism. This ensures the thumbwheel 310 can only move in the direction which re-sheaths the catheter and thus avoids inadvertently deploying an implant such as a stent or a tack. The thumbwheel 310 rotates each time the thumbwheel 310 is engaged with the thumbwheel lock mechanism due to the upper extended rib section being longer than the lower rib section, to ensure movement of the thumbwheel 310 is limited to a direction in which the catheter is resheathed.

[0045] FIG. 4 illustrates a lock two-step engagement for self-aligning wheel lock mechanism, in accordance with a representative embodiment.

[0046] In FIG. 4, engagement of the thumbwheel insert 415 of the thumbwheel 410 with the lock 420 is shown from left to right. The lock 420 is designed so that the hexagonal part of the lock 420 sits lower than the teeth of the thumbwheel insert 415, and this ensures the upper rib of thelock 420 always engages and aligns the thumbwheel insert 415 before the fine-tooth 428 on the lock 420 engages with the teeth on the thumbwheel insert 415. Once the lock 420 is aligned and far enough forward, the fine-tooth 428 on the lock 420 slides between the teeth of the thumbwheel insert 415 until the thumbwheel insert 415 stops at the final lock position.

[0047] In other words, in FIG. 4 the thumbwheel insert 415 first engages with the lock 420 via the hexagonal part on the thumbwheel insert 415 engaging with the hexagonal part of the lock 420 as shown. Once the thumbwheel insert 415 and the lock 420 are initially engaged, then the fine-tooth 428 on the lock 420 engages with the teeth on the thumbwheel insert 415 to align and guide the thumbwheel insert 415 into the final lock position.

[0048] FIG. 5 illustrates a ball detent assembly for self-aligning wheel lock mechanism, in accordance with a representative embodiment.

[0049] In FIG. 5, a ball 540 is provided atop a spring 542 in a housing 544. FIG. 5 illustrates a ball detent design that keeps the lock 120, the lock 220, the lock 320 and / or the lock 420 from sliding out of the lock position. The left half of the handle 100 and / or the handle 200 includes a boss which a ball detent is pressed into. The ball detent in FIG. 5 includes the housing 544 which houses the spring 542 inside, and a ball 540 that rides atop the spring 542 inside the housing 544. The ball 540 and the housing 544 may comprise a stainless steel material or a material with similar hardened characteristics.

[0050] FIG. 6 illustrates a ball detent feature for self-aligning wheel lock mechanism, in accordance with a representative embodiment.

[0051] In FIG. 6, the ball detent 640 includes a lock position hole 646 and an unlock position hole 648. The thumbwheel 610 is shown on the right for context in FIG. 6. The lock 120, the lock 220, the lock 320 and / or the lock 420 may have two holes which the ball 540 from the ball detent in FIG. 5 variably sits in. The ball 540 sits in the lock position hole 646 when the corresponding lock is in the lock position, and the ball 540 sits in the unlock position hole 648 when the corresponding lock is in the unlock position. When the lock 120, the lock 220, the lock 320 and / or the lock 420 slides forward and backwards, the lock slides across the ball detent, and this depresses the ball 540 against the spring 542 in the housing 544 in the handle 100 and / or the handle 200. When the lock 120, the lock 220, the lock 320 and / or the lock 420 reaches a point at which the lock position hole 646 hole lines up with the ball 540 of the ball detent, the ball tension is released, and the ball 540 extends into the lock position hole 646. When the lock 120,the lock 220, the lock 320 and / or the lock 420 reaches a point at which the unlock position hole 648 lines up with the ball 540 of the ball detent, the ball tension is again released, and the ball 540 extends into the unlock position hole 648. Slots in the lock 120, the lock 220, the lock 320 and / or the lock 420 are explained below with respect to FIG. 7A. The slots ride on rails in the handle halves which keep the lock position hole and the unlock position hole in alignment with the ball detent.

[0052] FIG. 7A illustrates comprehensive lock features for self-aligning wheel lock mechanism, in accordance with a representative embodiment.

[0053] In FIG. 7A, the numerous guidance, alignment and locking features described herein are shown. FIG. 7A includes the thumbwheel 710, the thumbwheel insert 715, the hexagonal part 717 and teeth 718 of the thumbwheel insert 715, rails 726, slots 729, and the ball detent 740. The numerous mechanisms ensure the lock 720 stays in place during normal use. As shown in FIG. 7A, slots 729 ride along rails 726 in the handle 100 and / or the handle 200. The lock 720 slides relative to the handle 100 and / or the handle 200 via the slots 729 which ride on the rail 726. The hexagonal part 717 on the thumbwheel insert 715 engages with the hexagonal part of the lock 720. The fine-tooth 728 serves as an anti-rotation feature together with the teeth on the thumbwheel insert 715 during alignment. The ball detent design shown in FIG. 5 and FIG. 6 keeps the lock or unlock in place once the lock is in the final lock position.

[0054] FIG. 7B illustrates comprehensive lock features for self-aligning wheel lock mechanism from an opposite view relative to FIG. 7A, in accordance with a representative embodiment.

[0055] In FIG. 7B, the thumbwheel insert 715 is shown with the hexagon part 717 as a hexagon mating feature, and with the teeth 718 as a fine tooth mating feature for mating with the fine tooth of the lock 720. The lock 720 is shown with the hexagon part 727 comprising the interior shape for accommodating the thumbwheel insert, and the fine-tooth 728 on the lock 720 for engaging with the teeth 718 on the thumbwheel insert 715.

[0056] FIG. 8 illustrates a thumbwheel and insert for self-aligning wheel lock mechanism, in accordance with a representative embodiment.

[0057] As described consistently above, the thumbwheels used in the self-aligning wheel lock mechanism may comprise of a two piece design. In FIG. 8, the thumbwheel 810 is shown separate from the thumbwheel insert 815. The thumbwheel insert 815 rotates with the thumbwheel 810 about an axis in common. The thumbwheel insert 815 fits inside the end of thethumbwheel 810 and has a key feature which ensures the thumbwheel 810 and thumbwheel insert 815 rotate together. The thumbwheel 810 is a thumbwheel first outer part and is configured with a key way feature that engages with an aligning key feature on the thumbwheel insert 815. The key feature of the thumbwheel insert 815 engages with the key way feature of the thumbwheel 810 to ensure the first outer part (i.e., the thumbwheel 810) and the second inner part (i.e., the thumbwheel insert 815) rotate together without slippage. Although the thumbwheel 810 and thumbwheel insert 815 may be provided as two pieces for ease of manufacturing, a one piece thumbwheel that physically integrates the features of the thumbwheel insert 815 may be provided in some embodiments.

[0058] In FIG. 8, several of the tip extensions 816 are labelled. The tip extensions 816 of the thumbwheel insert 815 slip over a boss of the thumbwheel 810. In FIG. 8, a lip 817 is also shown. The lip 817 interfaces with a belt as described herein, and the separability of the thumbwheel insert 815 from the thumbwheel 810 ensures that the below does not slip from the lip 817.

[0059] FIG. 9 illustrates a thumbwheel insert with extended tips for self-aligning wheel lock mechanism, in accordance with a representative embodiment.

[0060] In FIG. 9, the thumbwheel insert 915 is shown in the lock position with the lock 920. The thumbwheel insert 915 fits around the thumbwheel axle boss 911. In FIG. 9, extensions at the ends of the tips of the thumbwheel insert 915 are added to fit around the thumbwheel axle boss 911 on the right half of the handle 100. The extensions include a first extension 916A and a second extension 916B with labels, though additional unlabeled extensions are shown in and present in FIG. 9. The extensions ensure that the tips protrude in a depth direction (out of the page) so as to be assuredly stopped by the thumbwheel axle boss 911. This added feature keeps the lock 920 from flexing, which otherwise may allow the thumbwheel insert 915 and the overall corresponding thumbwheel to slip out of the lock position.

[0061] FIG. 10 illustrates a simplified lock mechanism with fine-tooth features for self-aligning wheel lock mechanism, in accordance with a representative embodiment.

[0062] In FIG. 10, a thumbwheel 1010 is shown with a thumbwheel insert 1015, a lock 1020 and a belt 1030. The overall size of the lock 1020 may be the same or a similar size as the lock 720 in FIG. 7A and FIG. 7B. However, FIG. 10 includes smaller hexagonal parts and teeth / fine-tooth feature compared to previous embodiments, and illustrates that the sizing of the hexagonal partof the lock 1020 and the hexagonal part on the thumbwheel insert 1015 may vary.

[0063] FIG. 11 illustrates a simplified thumbwheel and thumbwheel lock for self-aligning wheel lock mechanism, in accordance with a representative embodiment.

[0064] In FIG. 11 , a thumbwheel 1110 is shown with the thumbwheel insert 1115 and the lock 1120. FIG. 11 shows a simplified hexagonal concept compared to previous embodiments. In FIG. 11 , self-alignment via teeth on the thumbwheel insert 1115 and the fine-tooth on the lock 1120 are omitted.

[0065] FIG. 12A illustrates a thumbwheel insert 1215A as an octagon shape for a thumbwheel insert for a self-aligning wheel lock mechanism, in accordance with a representative embodiment.

[0066] FIG. 12B illustrates a thumbwheel insert 1215B as a hexagonal shape with lugs for a selfaligning wheel lock mechanism, in accordance with a representative embodiment.

[0067] FIG. 12C illustrates an engagement between a thumbwheel insert 1215 and a lock 1220 without tip extensions, as shown in FIG. 9, to assist with guiding the self-alignment. As shown, the fine-tooth of the lock 1220 in FIG. 3 is aligned between two teeth of the thumbwheel insert 1215 above and below the fine-tooth of the lock 1220 engage with other teeth of the thumbwheel insert 1215 to assist with the self alignment, in accordance with a representative embodiment.

[0068] FIG. 12D illustrates a lock engagement between a thumbwheel insert 1215 and a lock 1220 with an enclosed end for a self-aligning wheel lock mechanism, in accordance with a representative embodiment.

[0069] Accordingly, self-aligning wheel lock mechanism provides one or more mechanisms to implement a non-jamming thumbwheel lock mechanism, such as in an implant delivery handle. The thumbwheel lock mechanism described above may mechanically stop a wheel from rotating without requiring any electrical components or interference between components that could slip and not hold the wheel in place. The thumbwheel lock mechanism may stop a thumbwheel from rotating in an implant delivery handle, though the teachings herein may be applied in contexts outside of implant delivery handles, such as in other devices or applications where a wheel needs to be stopped from rotating. The thumbwheel lock mechanism described herein may be locked and unlocked repeatedly, and not just locked once without an unlock capability.

[0070] Although self-aligning wheel lock mechanism has been described with reference to several exemplary embodiments, it is understood that the words that have been used are words ofdescription and illustration, rather than words of limitation. Changes may be made within the purview of the appended claims, as presently stated and as amended, without departing from the scope and spirit of self-aligning wheel lock mechanism in its aspects. Although self-aligning wheel lock mechanism has been described with reference to particular means, materials and embodiments, self-aligning wheel lock mechanism is not intended to be limited to the particulars disclosed; rather self-aligning wheel lock mechanism extends to all functionally equivalent structures, methods, and uses such as are within the scope of the appended claims.

[0071] The illustrations of the embodiments described herein are intended to provide a general understanding of the structure of the various embodiments. The illustrations are not intended to serve as a complete description of all of the elements and features of the disclosure described herein. Many other embodiments may be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reviewing the disclosure. Other embodiments may be utilized and derived from the disclosure, such that structural and logical substitutions and changes may be made without departing from the scope of the disclosure. Additionally, the illustrations are merely representational and may not be drawn to scale. Certain proportions within the illustrations may be exaggerated, while other proportions may be minimized. Accordingly, the disclosure and the figures are to be regarded as illustrative rather than restrictive.

[0072] One or more embodiments of the disclosure may be referred to herein, individually and / or collectively, by the term “invention” merely for convenience and without intending to voluntarily limit the scope of this application to any particular invention or inventive concept. Moreover, although specific embodiments have been illustrated and described herein, it should be appreciated that any subsequent arrangement designed to achieve the same or similar purpose may be substituted for the specific embodiments shown. This disclosure is intended to cover any and all subsequent adaptations or variations of various embodiments. Combinations of the above embodiments, and other embodiments not specifically described herein, will be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reviewing the description.

[0073] The Abstract of the Disclosure is provided to comply with 37 C.F.R. §1.72(b) and is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. In addition, in the foregoing Detailed Description, various features may be grouped together or described in a single embodiment for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure. This disclosure is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the claimedembodiments require more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect, inventive subject matter may be directed to less than all of the features of any of the disclosed embodiments. Thus, the following claims are incorporated into the Detailed Description, with each claim standing on its own as defining separately claimed subject matter.

[0074] The preceding description of the disclosed embodiments is provided to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the concepts described in the present disclosure. As such, the above disclosed subject matter is to be considered illustrative, and not restrictive, and the appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications, enhancements, and other embodiments which fall within the true spirit and scope of the present disclosure. Thus, to the maximum extent allowed by law, the scope of the present disclosure is to be determined by the broadest permissible interpretation of the following claims and their equivalents and shall not be restricted or limited by the foregoing detailed description.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. A implant delivery handle, comprising: a thumbwheel (310 / 315, 810 / 815) configured to drive advancing and retracting of a sheath over a catheter loaded with an implant, the thumbwheel (310 / 315, 810 / 815) comprising a first outer part (310, 810) and a second inner part (315, 815) inserted into the first outer part (310, 810); a thumbwheel lock mechanism (320, 720) configured to lock the thumbwheel (310 / 315, 810 / 815) by engaging with the second inner part (315, 815); and a self-aligning wheel lock mechanism (718 / 728) configured to guide the thumbwheel lock mechanism (320, 720) into position for locking.

2. The implant delivery handle of claim 1, further comprising: a belt (230) driven by the thumbwheel (310 / 315, 810 / 815); a shuttle (235) attached to the belt (230), and configured to move the sheath backwards over the catheter to deliver the implant, wherein the thumbwheel lock mechanism (320, 720) is configured to stop rotation of the thumbwheel (310 / 315, 810 / 815).

3. The implant delivery handle of claim 1, wherein the second inner part (315, 815) comprises a first hexagonal part, the thumbwheel lock mechanism (320, 720) comprises a second hexagonal part, and the first hexagonal part is configured to interact with the second hexagonal part when a thumb grip feature on the thumbwheel lock mechanism (320, 720) is activated.

4. The implant delivery handle of claim 3, wherein the thumbwheel lock mechanism (320, 720) comprises a fine-tooth feature, the thumbwheel (310 / 315, 810 / 815) comprises teeth, and the fine-tooth feature engages with the teeth to lock the thumbwheel (310 / 315, 810 / 815) in place as the thumbwheel lock mechanism (320, 720) is pushed forward into a lock position after the thumb grip feature on the thumbwheel lock mechanism (320, 720) is activated and the thumbwheel lock mechanism (320, 720) continues to push forward.

5. The implant delivery handle of claim 4, wherein the thumbwheel lock mechanism (320, 720) comprises an upper extended rib section and a lower rib section, and the upper extended rib section is longer than the lower rib section so that the upper extended rib section engages the first hexagonal part before the lower rib section can engage the first hexagonal part to start rotation of thumbwheel alignment to the thumbwheel lock mechanism (320, 720).

6. The implant delivery handle of claim 5, wherein the thumbwheel (310 / 315, 810 / 815) rotates each time the thumbwheel (310 / 315, 810 / 815) is engaged with the thumbwheel lock mechanism (320, 720) due to the upper extended rib section being longer than lower rib section, to ensure movement of the thumbwheel (310 / 315, 810 / 815) is limited to a direction in which the catheter is re-sheathed.

7. The implant delivery handle of claim 5, wherein the upper extended rib section engages and aligns with the second inner part (315, 815) before the fine-tooth feature engages.

8. The implant delivery handle of claim 4, further comprising: a ball detent feature (540 / 542 / 544) that keeps the thumbwheel lock mechanism (320, 720) from sliding horizontally out of lock positions and unlock positions.

9. The implant delivery handle of claim 8, wherein the ball detent feature (540 / 542 / 544) comprises a housing (544), a spring (542) inside the housing (544), and a ball (540) which rides the spring (542) inside the housing (544).

10. The implant delivery handle of claim 9, wherein the thumbwheel lock mechanism (320, 720) comprises a first hole and a second hole, wherein the ball (540) resides in the first hole in a lock position, and wherein the ball (540 resides in the second hole in an unlock position.

11. A thumbwheel (310 / 315, 810 / 815), comprising: a first outer part (310, 810); anda second inner part (315, 815) inserted into the first outer part (310, 810), wherein the second inner part (315, 815) comprises a hexagonal part configured to interact with a hexagonal part of a thumbwheel lock mechanism (320, 720) when a thumb grip feature on the hexagonal part of the thumbwheel lock mechanism (320, 720) is activated such that the thumbwheel lock mechanism (320, 720) is configured to lock the thumbwheel (310 / 315, 810 / 815).

12. The thumbwheel of claim 11, wherein the thumbwheel (310 / 315, 810 / 815) is configured to drive advancing and retracting of a sheath over a catheter loaded with an implant.

13. The thumbwheel of claim 12, further comprising: a self-aligning wheel lock mechanism (718 / 728) configured to guide the thumbwheel lock mechanism (320, 720) into position for locking.

14. The thumbwheel of claim 13, further comprising: teeth configured to engage with a fine-tooth feature of the thumbwheel lock mechanism (320, 720) to lock the thumbwheel (310 / 315, 810 / 815) in place as the thumbwheel lock mechanism (320, 720) is pushed forward into a lock position after the thumb grip feature on the thumbwheel lock mechanism (320, 720) is activated and the thumbwheel lock mechanism (320, 720) continues to push forward.

15. The thumbwheel of claim 14, wherein the thumbwheel (310 / 315, 810 / 815) rotates each time the thumbwheel (310 / 315, 810 / 815) is engaged with the thumbwheel lock mechanism (320, 720) to ensure movement of the thumbwheel (310 / 315, 810 / 815) is limited to a direction in which the catheter is re-sheathed.

16. An implant delivery handle, comprising: a thumbwheel (310 / 315, 810 / 815) configured to drive advancing and retracting of a sheath over a catheter loaded with an implant, the thumbwheel (310 / 315, 810 / 815) comprising afirst outer part (310, 810) and a second inner part (315, 815) inserted into the first outer part (310, 810); a lock (720) with a self-aligning wheel lock mechanism (728) configured to guide the second inner part (315, 815) into alignment with the lock (720); and a ball detent feature (540 / 542 / 544) that keeps the lock (720) from sliding horizontally out of a lock position and out of an unlock position.

17. The implant delivery handle of claim 16, wherein the ball detent feature (540 / 542 / 544) comprises a housing (544), a spring (542) inside the housing (544), and a ball (540) which rides the spring (542) inside the housing (544).

18. The implant delivery handle of claim 17, further comprising: a lock position hole configured to accommodate the ball when the lock (720) is locked in a lock position; and an unlock position hole configured to accommodate the ball when the lock (720) is unlocked in an unlock position.

19. The implant delivery handle of claim 16, wherein the second inner part (315, 815) comprises a hexagonal part, the lock (720) comprises a hexagonal part, and the hexagonal part of the second inner part (315, 815) is configured to mate with the hexagonal part of the lock (720).

Images