Motor for a blood pump, motor assembly and blood pump

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a motor (60) for a blood pump. The motor (60) has a first motor end (68) and a second motor end (70) and comprises a motor housing (62), a stator (64) disposed within the motor housing (62), a rotor (66) disposed within the motor housing (62), a fluid path (72) extending inside the motor (60) between the first motor end (68) and the second motor end (70), and an output shaft (132) coupled to the rotor (66). The rotor (66) is rotatable about a rotational axis (RA) extending in an axial direction. A part of the fluid path (72) is disposed between the stator (64) and the rotor (66) in a radial direction relative to the rotational axis (RA) and forms a fluid guiding gap (74). The fluid path (72) comprises a fluid guiding structure (160). The present disclosure further relates to a motor assembly and to a blood pump.

Description

[0001] MOTOR FOR A BLOOD PUMP, MOTOR ASSEMBLY AND BLOOD PUMP

[0002] The present disclosure relates to the field of medical technology. The present disclosure relates to a motor for a blood pump, a motor assembly and to a blood pump.

[0003] BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0004] Heart assist devices for assisting a heart function of a patient are known from the prior art. Such devices may comprise an implantable blood pump section, which may be inserted into e.g., a ventricle of the heart by minimally invasive means. Further, an external (or extracorporeal) motor may be supplied to drive the blood pump and to establish a blood flow to unload blood from e.g., the left ventricle into the aorta. The motor may be connected with the pump section via a transcutaneous and flexible drive shaft which may be rotatably mounted inside a transcutaneous catheter. The implantable components of the device may be inserted through the femoral artery via a puncture site e.g., in a patient’s groin. Of course, the implantable components of the device may also be inserted via e.g., the axillary artery.

[0005] To avoid clotting at the pump section, a purge medium or purge fluid is fed through the transcutaneous catheter to the pump section. Usually, the purge fluid is a solution e.g., a glucose solution or saline solution.

[0006] Furthermore, there are specific requirements regarding the external motor of such a blood pump. On the one hand, the motor needs to be compact, efficient and of high-performance. On the other hand, the heat dissipation of the motor is to be optimized. In use, the motor is generally placed close to the patient’s body. If the heat generated by the motor during use is not effectively removed, the motor may overheat. This in turn may cause malfunction of the motor. In addition, overheating of the motor may constitute a health risk to the patient when a hot housing of the motor contacts the skin of the patient, in particular when the patient is not able to notice the heat and to react appropriately, e.g., due to anesthetic medication or the like.

[0007] There are some possibilities known in the prior art to optimize the heat dissipation. Cooling fins may be provided on the exterior surface of the motor to facilitate the heat transfer between the motor and the ambient air. However, the amount of heat dissipated may not be sufficient and debris may accumulate between the fins, which in turn impairs the heat transfer.

[0008] Thus, it is known from the prior art to provide a liquid cooling in that the purge fluid is used to cool the motor. An according motor is known from e.g., EP 4 104 894 A1 . The disclosure thereof is hereby incorporated in its entirety. If the purge fluid is used for cooling the motor, some components of the motor must be sealed against the purge fluid. In addition, the purge fluid must be optimally guided to achieve a sufficient heat transfer.

[0009] Hence, it is an objective of the present disclosure to provide a motor for a blood pump with an ameliorated heat transfer and which ensures increased requirements for sealing against fluids.

[0010] SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0011] According to a first aspect, a motor for a blood pump has a first motor end and a second motor end. The motor comprises a motor housing, a stator disposed within the motor housing, a rotor disposed within the motor housing, a fluid path extending inside the motor between the first motor end and the second motor end, and an output shaft coupled to the rotor. The rotor may be rotatable about a rotational axis extending in an axial direction. A part of the fluid path may be disposed between the stator and the rotor in a radial direction relative to the rotational axis and may form a fluid guiding gap. The fluid path may comprise a fluid guiding structure. Preferably, the fluid guiding structure comprises at least one transverse hole at least partially extending through the output shaft. As the fluid path partially extends between the stator and the rotor an optimized heat transfer is achieved. In addition, the fluid guiding structure improves the flow within the motor. Further, fluid from the fluid path may enter the output shaft via the at least one transverse hole which greatly facilitates heat transfer and dissipation.

[0012] Preferably, the fluid guiding path is configured to receive a flow of purge fluid. The purge fluid is preferably introduced into the motor at the first motor end.

[0013] The motor may comprise a fluid port at the first motor end extending into the motor housing. The fluid guiding structure may comprise a funnel-shaped outlet opening in the direction of the rotor connected to the fluid port. Fluid introduced through the fluid port is thus optimally distributed inside the motor by the funnel-shaped outlet opening.

[0014] The rotor may comprise a rotor housing and a magnet. The rotor housing may comprise a rotor sleeve. The rotor housing may comprise a first shaft extension disposed at a first end of the rotor sleeve and it may comprise a second shaft extension disposed at a second end of the rotor sleeve. The magnet may be fixed inside the rotor sleeve. The rotor housing is preferably fluid tight so that no fluid or purge fluid respectively comes into contact with the magnet. Thus, corrosion of the magnet is prevented. The first shaft extension may comprise a first tapering portion facing the first motor end. The first tapering portion may at least partially be disposed inside the funnel-shaped outlet opening. This allows for an optimal guidance of fluid exiting through the funnel-shaped outlet opening.

[0015] The output shaft may be attached to the second shaft extension. The output shaft may comprise an output shaft opening extending at least partially along the axial extension of the output shaft. The output shaft opening preferably comprises a torque transmission element. The torque transmission element preferably is an inner profile. The inner profile may be a square profile or square hole respectively. The output shaft is preferably integrally formed with the second shaft extension. Accordingly, rotation of the rotor may be transferred to the output shaft and to a flexible shaft attached to the torque transmission element.

[0016] The fluid guiding structure may be connected to the output shaft opening. Preferably, the at least one transverse hole opens into the output shaft opening. The at least one transverse opening preferably connects the fluid guiding gap with the output shaft opening. Thus, the fluid passing along the fluid guiding gap is directed to the output shaft opening.

[0017] The second shaft extension may comprise a circular cylindrical recess facing the magnet. Preferably, the circular cylindrical recess is a bore hole. A plug may be disposed within the recess. The plug preferably comprises a circular cylindrical plug base body and a protrusion extending in the axial direction from the plug base body in a direction towards the magnet. The recess is preferably filled with a potting material. Preferably, the cylindrical recess is connected to the output shaft opening. A cylindrical recess provided as a bore hole is easy to manufacture and the plug seals the inside of the rotor housing so as to prevent ingression of fluid. Preferably, the plug has a press fit connection to the circular cylindrical recess. This prevents the potting material from entering the output shaft opening while filling the potting material into the circular cylindrical recess. The protrusion eases the assembly of the plug and further provides a reinforcement for the potting material received within the cylindrical recess which thus holds the plug in place.

[0018] The motor may comprise a first bearing member. The rotor housing may be supported by the first bearing member so as to be rotatable relative to the stator about the rotational axis. The first bearing member may be preloaded by a biasing member. This allows to preload the bearing with the necessary force and to further allow only for axial movement to compensate production tolerance and small deviations due to warming during usage.

[0019] A first spacer may be disposed between the biasing member and the first bearing member. The first spacer is preferably made of a plastic material, preferably of a thermoplastic material such as polyetheretherketone (PEEK), polyetherketonketone (PEKK), polytetrafluorethylene (PTFE), polyethylene (PE) or the like. The spacer avoids tilting or dumping of the biasing member. In addition, the above mentioned materials have excellent mechanical and chemical resistance properties that are retained to higher temperatures.

[0020] The biasing member may be a single wave spring or a stack of wave springs, or a Belleville washer or a stack of Belleville washers, or a wave spring washer or a stack of wave spring washers, or a so- called Smalley washer.

[0021] The rotor housing may be supported by a second bearing member. The second bearing member may be fixed to the motor housing. A second spacer may abut the second bearing member in the axial direction. The second spacer is preferably made of a plastic material, preferably of a thermoplastic material such as polyetheretherketone (PEEK), polyetherketonketone (PEKK), polytetrafluorethylene (PTFE), polyethylene (PE) or the like. This allows for an optimal support of the rotor housing relative to the motor housing.

[0022] The first shaft extension may comprise a second tapering portion. The second tapering portion is preferably spaced from the first tapering portion. One of the first bearing member or the second bearing member may be disposed between the first tapering portion and the second tapering portion. Preferably, the fluid guiding gap is adjacent to the second tapering portion. Thus, the first tapering portion allows for a fluid guidance along or through the bearing member and the second tapering portion allows for an optimal guiding towards the fluid guiding gap. As the annular shaped area narrows towards the fluid guiding gap, the speed of the fluid in the fluid guiding gap increases.

[0023] According to a second aspect, a motor assembly comprises a motor as described above. The motor assembly may comprise a connector. The connector may be attached to the second motor end. The connector may comprise a central through opening extending through the connector. The output shaft may at least partially be disposed within the central through opening of the connector. The motor assembly may comprise a flexible shaft. The flexible shaft may be received in the central through opening of the connector and the flexible shaft may be coupled to the output shaft in a torque transmitting manner. Preferably, a sealing member is disposed between the connector and the motor housing. The connector is preferably screwed to the motor housing at the second motor housing end.

[0024] The motor assembly may comprise a catheter and the central through opening of the connector may comprise a catheter attachment portion. An attachment part of the catheter may be fixed to the catheter attachment portion. The flexible shaft may extend through the catheter. The attachment part of the catheter is preferably glued to the catheter attachment portion. The connector may comprise at least one glue transmitting opening extending from an outer peripheral surface of the connector into the catheter attachment portion. This facilitates assembly and attachment of the catheter to the motor.

[0025] According to third aspect, a blood pump comprises a motor as described above or a motor assembly as described above. The blood pump may comprise a pump section. The pump section may comprise a compressible and expandable housing and a compressible and expandable rotor disposed within the compressible and expendable housing. Preferably, the compressible and expendable housing has a diameter of at most 11 French in the compressed state. Even more preferably, the compressible and expendable housing has a diameter of at most 9 French in the compressed state.

[0026] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0027] The foregoing summary as well as the following detailed description of preferred embodiments will be better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings. For the purpose of illustrating the present disclosure, reference is made to the drawings. The accompanying drawings are not drawn to scale. In the drawings, identical or corresponding components illustrated in various figures are represented by the same numeral. For purposes of clarity, not every component may be labeled in every drawing. The scope of the disclosure is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed in the drawings.

[0028] In the drawings:

[0029] Fig. 1 is a schematic representation of an intravascular blood pump, which is positioned within the left ventricle of the heart,

[0030] Fig. 2 is an illustration of a pump section of the blood pump of Fig. 1 ,

[0031] Fig. 3 is a cross section of a motor for driving the blood pump according to a first embodiment,

[0032] Fig. 4 is a detailed view of a first side of a bearing member of the motor of Fig. 3,

[0033] Fig. 5 is a detailed view of a second side of the bearing member of Fig. 4,

[0034] Fig. 6 is a detail of a motor assembly comprising the motor according to the first embodiment,

[0035] Fig. 7 is a cross section of a motor according to a second embodiment,

[0036] Fig. 8 is a cross section of a motor according to a third embodiment, and

[0037] Fig. 9 is a cross section of a motor according to a fourth embodiment.

[0038] DETAILED DESCRIPTION Fig. 1 shows the use of a blood pump 10 for supporting a patient’s heart H. The blood pump 10 in this example is an intravascular blood pump 10. In this particular example, the intravascular blood pump 10 supports a left ventricle LV of the patient’s heart H. As schematically shown, the intravascular blood pump 10 comprises a catheter 12 and a pump section 14 mounted at a distal end region of the catheter 12.

[0039] The intravascular blood pump 10 may be placed inside the heart using a percutaneous, transluminal technique. For example, the intravascular blood pump 10 may be introduced through a femoral artery. However, alternative vascular access is equally possible, such as access through the subclavian artery or the axillary artery. After passing through the femoral artery, the catheter 12 may be pushed into the aorta such that the pump section 14 reaches through the aortic valve into the patient’s heart H. The positioning of the pump section 14 in Fig. 1 serves purely as an example, whereas different placements are possible, such as positioning the pump section 14 inside the right ventricle of the patient’s heart H.

[0040] The catheter 12 houses a flexible shaft 22 driven by a motor 60, which is preferably placed outside the patient’s body and as will be explained in more detail below. The flexible shaft 22 drives a pump element 16 disposed inside the pump section 14. At its distal end, the pump section 14 comprises a flexible atraumatic tip 24 having the form of a pigtail or a J-form, which facilitates placement of the intravascular blood pump 10 by aiding navigation inside the patient’s vascular system. Furthermore, the softness of the flexible atraumatic tip 24 allows the pump section 14 to support itself atraumatically against the wall of the left ventricle LV.

[0041] As shown in Fig. 2, the pump element 16 is disposed inside a pump section housing 26. The pump section housing 26 is composed of a series of struts 28. The pump element 16 is provided in form of an impeller with at least one blade 54. The rotation of the impeller 16 around a central axis causes blood to flow from a blood flow inlet 18 at a distal end of the pump section 14 to a blood flow outlet 20 located proximally of the blood flow inlet 18. The pump section housing 26 includes an inner coating layer 30 and an outer coating layer 32 around the struts 28, the coating extends from the blood flow inlet 18 towards the blood flow outlet 20 by a fixed distance 34. The coating layers 30, 32 are made from an appropriate coating material, such as a polyurethane.

[0042] An outflow tube 36 is coupled to the outer coating layer 32, and covers and surrounds the blood flow outlet 20. The outflow tube 36 is collapsible. The outflow tube 36 is composed of a suitable biocompatible material, such as a suitable polymer, such as polyurethane, polyamide, nylon, or silicone. Preferably, the outflow tube 36 is made from polyurethan (PU) or polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). Of course, the outflow tube 36 may also be made of another suitable material, like polyethylene terephthalate (PET) or a polyamide. As shown in Fig. 1 , the outflow tube 36 comprises outlet openings 52. Here, the outlet openings 52 are disposed in the aorta. The blood exiting the blood flow outlet 20 flows along the inside of the outflow tube 36 and is delivered to the aorta via the outlet openings 52.

[0043] The impeller 16 is offset from the blood flow inlet 18 by a predetermined distance 38. The impeller 16 is typically positioned such that a leading edge 40 of the impeller 16 is surrounded by the coating layers 30, 32. A trailing edge 42 of the impeller 16 may also be surrounded by the coating, or may extend beyond the trailing end of the coating. However, if the impeller 16 extends beyond the coating, at least a portion 46 of the entire length 44 of the impeller 16 is surrounded by the coating layers 30, 32.

[0044] As depicted in Fig. 2, the pump section 14 further comprises a mesh 48. The mesh 48 defines smaller openings than the openings defined by the struts 28 forming the housing. The mesh 48 is directly coupled to the struts 28 forming the pump section housing 26 or to the outer coating layer 32. In some embodiments, the mesh 48 may be directly coupled to one or more struts 50 that are upstream (in the direction of the flow of blood) from the struts 28 forming the pump section housing 26. In some embodiments, the mesh 48 may not be directly coupled to any struts 28, 50. The mesh 48 is positioned upstream from the impeller 16. In some embodiments, the mesh 48 may be positioned within an interior volume of space defined by the struts 28, 50. In some embodiments, the mesh 48 may be positioned external to the struts 28, 50. The struts 28, 50 are formed of an appropriate material, such as nitinol.

[0045] In this embodiment, both the impeller 16 and the pump section housing 26 are compressible and expendable. For placing the blood pump 10, the pump section 14 is advanced through the patient’s vascular system while the rotor 16, the pump section housing 26 and the outflow tube 36 are in their compressed state. Once the pump section 14 is at its target location, the pump section housing 26 and rotor 16 are expanded. The blood flow established then expands also the outflow tube 36.

[0046] Fig. 3 shows a first embodiment of a motor 60 in a sectional side view. The motor 60 is a brushless motor and is configured to drive the flexible shaft 22 and hence the impeller 16. The motor 60 comprises a motor housing 62, a stator 64 and a rotor 66. Further, the motor 60 has first motor end 68 at a proximal end of the motor 60 and a second motor end 70 at a distal end of the motor 60. A fluid path 72 extends inside the motor 60 between the first motor end 68 and the second motor end 70, as will be described in more detail below. In particular, the motor housing 62 is configured so that a fluid can flow through it in a fluid guiding gap 74. As shown, the fluid guiding gap 74 is an annular gap located between the stator 64 and the rotor 66. Hence, the fluid guiding gap 74 is a part of the fluid path 72. The stator 64 is disposed in a fluid-tight stator chamber 76. The guiding gap 74 has a constant height essentially along the axial extension of the stator 64 i.e., along the entire length of the stator 64 in the axial direction.

[0047] The stator chamber 76 is delimited in the direction of the rotor 66, i.e. in the radial direction, by an inner sleeve 80. Within the inner sleeve 80 the rotor 66 is arranged. In particular, the rotor 66 comprises a rotor housing 82 and a permanent magnet 84 disposed within the rotor housing 82. The rotor 66 is thus also configured to be fluid-tight and is disposed in a rotor chamber 78 filled with fluid during operation, in particular with purge fluid as will be described in more detail below.

[0048] The rotor 66 is supported by rotor bearing members 86, 88, namely a proximal bearing member 86 and a distal bearing member 88. In this embodiment, the proximal bearing member 86 is a first bearing member and the distal bearing member 88 is a second bearing member.

[0049] The rotor 66 is rotatable about a rotational axis RA extending in an axial direction centrally through the motor housing 62. The rotor bearing members 86, 88 are configured as ball bearings with the cages 192 made of polyetheretherketone (PEEK), see also Figs. 4 and 5. The outer bearing races 194 of the bearing members 86, 88 are supported on an inner peripheral surface 90 of the inner sleeve 80. A sliding fit is formed between the bearing members 86, 88 and the inner sleeve 80. A fluid flowing in the fluid guiding gap 74 between rotor 66 and stator 64 can flow through the bearing members 86, 88.

[0050] As shown in Figs. 4 and 5, the cage 192 of each bearing member 86, 88 is a one piece unitary member and comprises a first side 198 which is largely open and a second side 200 which is largely closed. Thus, the cage 192 of each bearing member 86, 88 is configured as a snap cage which secures the rolling elements 202 by a snap fit. When mounted, the first side of each bearing member 86, 88 faces the first motor end 68. This allows for a facilitated passage of the fluid flowing along the fluid guiding gap 74 and thereby through the bearing members 86, 88.

[0051] The inner sleeve 80 is formed in one piece from poly etheretherketone (PEEK) and delimits the rotor chamber 78 in the radial direction. In this particular embodiment, the inner sleeve 80 delimits the entire space inside the motor housing 62 in which a fluid can flow through the motor housing 62 in the axial direction. At least in the area of the axial extension of the stator 64, the inner sleeve 80 has an annular cylindrical portion with a constant wall thickness, which is preferably about 0.5 mm. As shown, the annular cylindrical portion is hollow. The motor housing 62 further comprises an outer sleeve 92, which also delimits the stator chamber 76 in the radial direction. The outer sleeve 92 is preferably made of a corrosion-resistant steel and has a wall thickness of about 0.5 mm.

[0052] The inner sleeve 80 and the outer sleeve 92 are supported at the second motor end 70 by a motor flange 94. The outer sleeve 92 is partially fitted onto the motor flange 94 and fixed thereto e.g., by laser welding. The motor flange 94 comprises an outer threading 156 on an outer peripheral surface thereof. The inner sleeve 80 comprises a flange portion 96 which extends at the second motor end 70 into the motor flange 94. Preferably, the flange portion 96 is pressed into the motor flange 94. The flange portion 96 extends in a central recess 98 within the motor flange 94. As shown in Fig. 3, the inner sleeve 80 extends to the end of the motor flange 94 and is flush with the motor flange 94.

[0053] The inner sleeve 80 abuts the motor flange 94 with a collar-like extension 100 in the axial direction along the rotational axis RA. The stator 64 is disposed on the other side of the collar-like extension 100 in the stator chamber 76. The wall thickness of the inner sleeve 80 in the area of the flange portion 96 is at least twice as large as in the area of the fluid guiding gap 74 between the stator 64 and the rotor 66. In addition, the flange portion 96 comprises a reduced diameter portion 102 providing a mounting edge 104 within the flange portion 96 for accommodating a distal spacer 124. The distal spacer 124 is a tubular shaped member and in this embodiment is the second spacer. As shown in Fig. 3, the second spacer 124 abuts the mounting edge 104 on one side and the second bearing member 88 on the other side, so that the second bearing member 88 is supported in the axial direction.

[0054] At the first motor end 68 of the motor 60 or the motor housing 62 respectively, a centering flange 106 is arranged between the outer peripheral surface of the inner sleeve 80 and the inner peripheral surface of the outer sleeve 92. The centering flange 106 keeps the inner sleeve 80 and the outer sleeve 92 spaced from each other. The centering flange 106 also limits the stator chamber 76 in the axial direction. The stator chamber 76 is completely filled with a first potting material 108, for example. Preferably, the first potting material 108 has a viscosity of at most 200 cPs in the uncured state. Thus, during application of the first potting material 108 accumulation of air can be greatly avoided.

[0055] At the first motor end 68, the motor housing 62 or the motor 60 respectively is completely sealed by a second potting material 110. The second potting material 110 is largely flush with the outer sleeve 92 in the axial direction. The inner sleeve 80 protrudes inside into the second potting material 110 and ends in the second potting material 110. An electrical connection line 112 and a fluid connector 114 reach through the second potting material 110 into the motor housing 62. The fluid connector 114 comprises a connection profile 116 on an outer peripheral surface, for example for a hose. Further, the fluid connector 114 comprises a fluid port 118 which serves to introduce the fluid flowing along the fluid path 72 and within the fluid guiding gap 74.

[0056] In addition, the fluid connector 114 comprises an undercut section 119 on its outer peripheral surface which provides a form fit in the second potting material 110. This prevents movement of the fluid connector 114 relative to the motor housing 62 and the second potting material 110 when a force is exerted on the fluid connector 114 e.g., attachment or detachment of a hose. In the embodiment shown, the undercut section 119 is completely circumferential. However, the undercut section 119 may also have a different configuration e.g., partly circumferential or in form of insertions or notches.

[0057] The fluid to be introduced is preferably a purge medium or purge fluid, like a glucose solution or saline solution. As shown in Fig. 3, the fluid connector 114 comprises a larger diameter portion which is fitted into the inner sleeve 80 i.e., the larger diameter portion of the fluid connector 114 contacts the inner peripheral surface 90 of the inner sleeve 80. Preferably, the larger diameter portion of the fluid connector 114 forms a sliding fit with the inner sleeve 80.

[0058] A biasing member 120 in form of a single wave spring and a proximal first spacer 122 are disposed between fluid connector 114 and the first bearing member 86. In this embodiment, the proximal spacer 122 is a first spacer. As shown, the first spacer 122 is disposed between the biasing member 120 and the first bearing member 86. The first biasing member 120 preloads the first bearing member 86 in a direction towards the second motor end 70. The first spacer 122 avoids tilting of the biasing member 120 and, hence, prevents penetration of the first biasing member 120 into the first bearing member 86. As the bearing members 86, 88 are slide-fitted to the inner peripheral surface 90 of the inner sleeve 80 they are biased against each other via the biasing force of the biasing member 120. The first spacer 122 is made from a suitable biocompatible material, in particular from a plastic material, preferably of a themoplastic material such as polyetheretherketone (PEEK), polyetherketonketone (PEKK), polytetrafluorethylene (PTFE), polyethylene (PE) or the like .

[0059] The rotor housing 82 comprises a rotor sleeve 126, a first shaft extension 128 and a second shaft extension 130. The first shaft extension 128 is attached to the rotor sleeve 126 in direction of the first motor end 68 and the second shaft extension 130 is attached to the rotor sleeve 126 in direction of the second motor end 70. The rotor sleeve 126 is connected to the shaft extensions 128, 130 in a fluid- tight manner by e.g., being welded, in particular laser-welded, to the shaft extensions 128, 130.

[0060] The first shaft extension 128 extends at least partially into the rotor sleeve 126 and is supported by the first bearing member 86, in particular by the inner race 196 of the first bearing member 86. The first shaft extension 128 comprises a first tapering portion 166 at the end facing the first motor end 68. Further, the first shaft extension 128 comprises a second tapering portion 168 which is disposed between the first bearing member 68 and the fluid guiding gap 74. The second shaft extension 130 also extends at least partially into the rotor sleeve 126 and is supported by the second bearing member 88, in particular by the inner race 196 of the second bearing member 88. Furthermore, an output shaft 132 is coupled to the second shaft extension 130. In particular, the output shaft 132 is integrally formed with the second shaft extension 130 and protrudes from the motor housing 62 at the second motor end 70. The output shaft 132 comprises an output shaft opening 134 and a circular cylindrical recess 136 connected to the output shaft opening 134. The output shaft opening 134 is configured to receive the flexible shaft 22 in a torque transmitting manner, see also Fig. 4. Therefore, the output shaft opening 134 comprises a torque transmission element 138 in form of an inner profile. In this embodiment, the inner profile 138 is a square profile.

[0061] Further, the first shaft extension 128 and the second shaft extension 130 can also be used to balance the rotor 66 in removing material therefrom.

[0062] The circular cylindrical recess 136 faces the magnet 84 and is provided for manufacturing reasons. The circular cylindrical recess 136 is closed with a plug 140, which prevents fluid from entering the rotor 66. The plug 140 comprises a circular cylindrical base body 142 and a protrusion 144 extending in the axial direction from the circular cylindrical base body 142 in a direction towards the magnet 84. The circular cylindrical base body 142 is press fitted to the circular cylindrical recess 136. The circular cylindrical recess 136 is filed with a third potting material 146, wherein the protrusion 144 eases the assembly of the plug 140 and further acts like a kind of reinforcement structure for the third potting material 146.

[0063] The biasing member 120 causes a biasing force on the rotor 66 in the direction of the second motor end 70, so that the rotor 66 is supported against the mounting edge 104 via the second bearing member 88 and the second spacer 124 at the second motor end 70.

[0064] The stator 64 has a return yoke 148 with a plurality of individual laminations extending side by side in the stator chamber 76. The stator 64 also comprises a coil assembly 150 with e.g., three pairs of coils. The coil assembly 150 extends from the collar-like extension 100 to a platinum carrier 152 provided on an outer peripheral surface of the inner sleeve 80. The platinum carrier 152 has an annular shape and supports an annular shaped circuit board 154. The circuit board 154 is connected with the electrical connection 112 and is provided for the electrical interconnection for operating the motor 60 in a known manner.

[0065] The fluid guiding path 72 further comprises a fluid guiding structure 160 intended to optimally guide the fluid introduced through the fluid port 118. The fluid guiding structure 160 comprises at least one transverse hole 162 which extends through the output shaft 132 and in particular into the output shaft opening 134. As shown in Fig. 3, the fluid guiding structure 160 comprises a plurality of transverse holes 162 which are evenly distributed about the circumference of the output shaft 132. The transverse holes 162 are disposed between the fluid guiding gap 74 and the second bearing member 88. The fluid guiding structure 160 further comprises a funnel-shaped outlet opening 164 disposed directly adjacent the fluid port 118 in the fluid connector 114. The first tapering portion 166 of the first shaft extension 128 is partially disposed within the funnel-shaped outlet opening 164.

[0066] The fluid entering the motor housing 62 through the fluid port 118 flows along the funnel-shaped outlet opening 164 which in combination with the first tapering portion 166 of the first shaft extension 128 guides the fluid to the first bearing member 86. After passing the first bearing member, the fluid is guided to the fluid guiding gap 74 via the second tapering portion 168 of the first shaft extension 128. The fluid guiding gap 74 between rotor 66 and stator 64 is dimensioned in such a way that it has a height of about 0.5 mm at least along the axial the extension of the rotor sleeve 126. Such a height of the fluid guiding gap 74 has proven to be particularly advantageous for the efficiency of the motor 60. After exiting the fluid guiding gap 74, a part of the fluid enters the output shaft 132 into the output shaft opening 134 via the transverse holes 162. The fluid also partially flows through the second bearing member 88 and then further along the outer peripheral surface of the output shaft 132 towards the second motor end 70. This configuration has proven to be most efficient in terms of heat transfer and further allows to flush the output shaft opening 134. To assemble the motor 60, the outer sleeve 92 is first attached to the motor flange 94 and welded to it, and the inner sleeve 80 with its flange portion 96 is pressed into the central recess 98 of the motor flange 94. The annular space created between the outer sleeve 92 and the inner sleeve 80 (i.e., the stator chamber 76) is then filled with the first potting material 108 preferably having a viscosity of at most 200 cPs in the uncured state. The coil assembly 150 and the return yoke 148 are inserted into the still liquid first potting material 108. Next, the platinum carrier 152, the circuit board 154 and the centering flange 106 are mounted. After the centering flange 106 has been inserted, any cavities present in the stator chamber 76 are filled with the first potting material 108. Subsequently, the second spacer 124 and the second bearing member 88 together with the preassembled rotor 66 including the first bearing member 86 are then inserted into the rotor chamber 78 so that the second spacer 124 abuts against the mounting edge 104.

[0067] Subsequently, the biasing member 120 and the first spacer 122 are mounted together with the fluid connector 114 into the inner sleeve 80. A predetermined force is then applied to the fluid connector 114. Finally, the second potting material 110 is provided at the first motor end 68, and the force on the fluid connector 114 is maintained until the second potting material 110 is fully cured. Preferably, the pre-assembly of the stator 64 up to the insertion of the centering flange 106 and the curing of the first potting material 108 as well as the pre-assembly of the rotor 66 may be performed outside a clean room. In particular, balancing the rotor 66 may cause debris so that magnetizing the rotor is preferably done after balancing to avoid the debris sticking on the rotor 66. The assembly of the rotor 66 in the stator 64, including the application and curing of the second potting material 110 is preferably performed in a clean room.

[0068] Fig. 6 schematically shows a motor assembly 170 comprising a motor 60 as described above. The motor assembly 170 comprises a connector 172 attached to the second motor end 70. In particular, the connector 172 comprises an inner threading 174 screwed onto the outer threading 156 of the motor flange 94. A sealing member 176 is disposed between the second motor end 70 and the connector 172 to avoid fluid exiting the motor assembly 170 in the area of the threading 156, 174. The sealing member 176 is an annular member provided at the second motor end 70 at the face of the motor flange 94.

[0069] The connector 172 comprises a central through opening 178 which extends through the connector 172. As shown, the central through opening 178 comprises a first opening portion 180 and a second opening portion 182 connected by an intermediate opening portion 184. The first opening portion 180 has a larger diameter than the second opening portion 182. The second opening portion 182 has a larger diameter than intermediate opening portion 184. The output shaft 132 is partially disposed within the first opening portion 180. The second opening portion 182 comprises a catheter attachment portion 186 and a plurality of glue transmitting openings 188 extending from an outer peripheral surface of the connector 172 into the catheter attachment portion 186.

[0070] As depicted in Fig. 6, the motor assembly 170 comprises the catheter 12 and the flexible shaft 22. An attachment part 190 of the catheter 12 is disposed in the catheter attachment portion 186 and fixed thereto by gluing. The glue for fixing the attachment part 190 of the catheter 12 to the catheter attachment portion 186 is applied via the glue transmitting openings 188. As shown, the attachment part 190 of the catheter 12 abuts the end of the second opening portion 182 which delimits the border to the intermediate opening portion 184.

[0071] The flexible shaft 22 extends within the catheter 12 and through the intermediate opening portion 184 into the output shaft opening 134 of the output shaft 132. The end of the flexible shaft 22 is slidingly received in the output shaft opening 134 in a torque transmitting manner i.e., the end on the flexible shaft mates with the inner profile of the output shaft opening 134 e.g., being configured as a square plug. However, a certain clearance between the end of the flexible shaft and inner peripheral surface of the output shaft opening 134 is necessary to allow the fluid passing through and to allow for axial movement of the end of the flexible shaft 22 in the output shaft opening 134. This axial movement prevents the flexible shaft 22 from axial load during use. The clearance may be achieved by e.g., a slight reduction in size of the end of the flexible shaft 22 or a groove.

[0072] The fluid exiting the output shaft opening 134 again merges with the fluid flowing along the outer peripheral surface of the output shaft 132 and enters the catheter 12 through the intermediate opening portion 184. As the fluid is preferably a purge fluid, it is further used to avoid clotting in the pump section 14.

[0073] Fig. 7 depicts a second embodiment of a motor 260. The motor 260 according to the second embodiment differs from the motor 60 according to the first embodiment in the configuration of the proximal spacer 222, the distal spacer 224 and the biasing member 220. In this embodiment, the distal spacer 224 is a first spacer in sense of the disclosure and the proximal spacer 222 is a second spacer in sense of the disclosure. As such, the distal bearing member 88 is a first bearing member in sense of the disclosure and the proximal bearing member 86 is a second bearing member in sense of the disclosure. The biasing member 220 is provided in form of a wave spring.

[0074] As shown in Fig. 7, the biasing member 220 is supported on a tubular portion of the first spacer 224 and abuts the mounting edge 104 so as to exert a preloading force on the first bearing member 88 via the first spacer 224. The first spacer 224 further comprises a third tapering portion 266 which tapers in a direction of an outer circumferential surface of the output shaft 132 so that the fluid passing the first bearing member 88 is guided there along. For better fluid distribution, especially within the portion where the biasing member 220 is disposed, the first spacer 224 may have one or more axial grooves 280 on its outer surface and / or channels 282 to provide fluid to the portion where the biasing member 220 is disposed. In Fig. 7, the axial grooves 280 and the channels 282 are schematically shown by dashed lines. Of course, the channels 282 may have a different configuration and it is also possible to only provide the axial grooves 280 or the channels 282.

[0075] The second spacer 222 is directly positioned between the fluid connector 114 and the second bearing member 86. The first spacer 224 and the second spacer 222 are made of a biocompatible material, preferably of a plastic material, preferably of a thermoplastic material such as polyetheretherketone (PEEK), polyetherketonketone (PEKK), polytetrafluorethylene (PTFE), polyethylene (PE) or the like.

[0076] Fig. 8 depicts a third embodiment of a motor 360. The motor 360 according to the third embodiment differs from the motor 60 according to the first embodiment in the configuration of the proximal spacer 322, the distal spacer 324 and the biasing member 320. In this embodiment, the distal spacer 324 is a first spacer in sense of the disclosure and the proximal spacer 322 is a second spacer in sense of the disclosure. As such, the distal bearing member 88 is a first bearing member in sense of the disclosure and the proximal bearing member 86 is a second bearing member in sense of the disclosure. The biasing member 320 is provided in form of a stack of wave springs.

[0077] As shown in Fig. 8, the biasing member 320 is supported on a tubular portion of the first spacer 324 and abuts the mounting edge 104 so as to exert a preloading force on the first bearing member 88 via the first spacer 324. For better fluid distribution, especially the portion where the biasing member 320 is disposed, the first spacer 324 may have one or more axial grooves 380 on its outer surface and / or channels 382 to provide fluid to the section where the biasing member 320 is disposed. In Fig. 8, the axial grooves 380 and the channels 382 are schematically shown by dashed lines. Of course, the channels 382 may have a different configuration and it is also possible to only provide the axial grooves 380 or the channels 382. The second spacer 322 is directly positioned between the fluid connector 114 and the second bearing member 86. The first spacer 324 and the second spacer 322 are made of a biocompatible material, preferably of a plastic material, preferably of a thermoplastic material such as polyetheretherketone (PEEK), polyetherketonketone (PEKK), polytetrafluorethylene (PTFE), polyethylene (PE) or the like.

[0078] Fig. 9 depicts a fourth embodiment of a motor 460. The motor 460 according to the fourth embodiment differs from the motor 60 according to the first embodiment in the configuration of the fluid connector 414. In this embodiment, the proximal bearing member 86 is a first bearing member in sense of the disclosure and the distal bearing member 88 is a second bearing member in sense of the disclosure. The biasing member 420 is provided in form of a stack of wave springs.

[0079] The fluid connector 414 is shortened so that a biasing member receiving space 430 is established between the first bearing member 86 and the fluid connector 414. The biasing member 420 is provided in the biasing member receiving space 430 so as to exert a preloading force on the first bearing member 88. In this embodiment, a first spacer is not provided, but may be provided if desired.

[0080] EXEMPLARY IMPLEMENTATIONS

[0081] As already described, the technology described herein may be implemented in various ways. In that regard, the foregoing disclosure is intended to include, but not be limited to, the systems, methods, and combinations and subcombinations thereof that are set forth in the following exemplary implementations. Preferred embodiments are described in the following paragraphs:

[0082] A1 Motor for a blood pump, the motor having a first motor end and a second motor end and comprising: a motor housing, a stator disposed within the motor housing, a rotor disposed within the motor housing, a fluid path extending inside the motor between the first motor end and the second motor end, and an output shaft coupled to the rotor, wherein the rotor is rotatable about a rotational axis extending in an axial direction, wherein a part of the fluid path is disposed between the stator and the rotor in a radial direction relative to the rotational axis and forms a fluid guiding gap, and wherein the fluid path comprises a fluid guiding structure (160).

[0083] A2 Motor according to paragraph A1 , wherein the fluid guiding structure comprises at least one transverse hole at least partially extending through the output shaft.

[0084] A3 Motor according to paragraph A1 or A2, wherein the motor comprises a fluid port at the first motor end extending into the motor housing, wherein the fluid guiding structure comprises a funnel-shaped outlet opening in the direction of the rotor connected to the fluid port.

[0085] A4 Motor according to any one of the preceding paragraphs A1 to A3, wherein the rotor comprises a rotor housing and a magnet, wherein the rotor housing comprises a rotor sleeve, a first shaft extension disposed at a first end of the rotor sleeve and a second shaft extension disposed at a second end of the rotor sleeve, wherein the magnet is fixed inside the rotor sleeve.

[0086] A5 Motor according to paragraph A4, wherein the first shaft extension comprises a first tapering portion facing the first motor end.

[0087] A6 Motor according to paragraph A4 or A5, wherein the output shaft is attached to the second shaft extension

[0088] A7 Motor according to any one of the preceding paragraphs A1 to A6, wherein the output shaft comprises an output shaft opening extending at least partially along the axial extension of the output shaft.

[0089] A8 Motor according to paragraph A7, wherein the output shaft opening comprises a torque transmission element. A9 Motor according to paragraph A8, wherein the torque transmission element is an inner profile.

[0090] A10 Motor according to paragraph A9, wherein the inner profile is a square plug.

[0091] A11 Motor according to any one of the preceding paragraphs A4 to A10, wherein the output shaft is integrally formed with the second shaft extension.

[0092] A12 Motor according to any one of the preceding paragraphs A7 to A11 , wherein the fluid guiding structure is connected to the output shaft opening

[0093] A13 Motor according to any one of the preceding paragraphs A7 to A12, wherein the at least one transverse hole opens into the output shaft opening.

[0094] A14 Motor according to any one of the preceding paragraphs A4 to A13, wherein the second shaft extension comprises a circular cylindrical recess facing the magnet

[0095] A15 Motor according to paragraph A14, wherein a plug is disposed within the recess

[0096] A16 Motor according to paragraph A15, wherein the plug comprises a circular cylindrical plug base body and a protrusion extending in the axial direction from the plug base body in a direction towards the magnet

[0097] A17 Motor according to any one of the preceding paragraphs A14 to A16, wherein the recess is filled with a potting material.

[0098] A18 Motor according to any one of the preceding paragraphs A14 to A17, wherein the circular cylindrical recess is a bore hole.

[0099] A19 Motor according to any one of the preceding paragraphs A4 to A18, wherein the motor comprises a first bearing member, wherein the rotor housing is supported by the first bearing member so as to be rotatable relative to the stator about the rotational axis, wherein the first bearing member is preloaded by a biasing member.

[0100] A20 Motor according to paragraph A19, wherein a first spacer is disposed between the biasing member and the first bearing member.

[0101] A21 Motor according to paragraph A20, wherein the first spacer is made of a biocompatible material, preferably of a plastic material, preferably of a thermoplastic material such as polyetheretherketone, polyetherketonketone, polytetrafluorethylene, polyethylene or the like.

[0102] A22 Motor according to any one of the preceding paragraphs A19 to A21 , wherein the biasing member is a single wave spring or a stack of wave springs, or a Belleville washer or a stack of Belleville washers, or a wave spring washer or a stack of wave spring washers, or a Smalley washer. A23 Motor according to any one of the preceding paragraphs A4 to A22, wherein the rotor housing is supported by a second bearing member

[0103] A24 Motor according to paragraph A23, wherein the second bearing member is fixed to the motor housing.

[0104] A25 Motor according to paragraph A23 or A24, wherein a second spacer abuts the second bearing member in the axial direction.

[0105] A26 Motor according to paragraph A25, wherein the second spacer is made of a biocompatible material, preferably of a plastic material, preferably of a thermoplastic material such as polyetheretherketone, polyetherketonketone, polytetrafluorethylene, polyethylene or the like.

[0106] A27 Motor according to any one of the preceding paragaphs A5 to A26, wherein the first shaft extension comprises a second tapering portion adjacent the fluid guiding gap.

[0107] A28 Motor according to paragraph A27, wherein the first bearing member or the second bearing member is disposed between the fist tapering portion and the second tapering portion.

[0108] A29 Motor according to any one the preceding paragraphs A1 to A28, wherein the motor comprises an inner sleeve disposed between the rotor and the stator.

[0109] A30 Motor according to paragraph A29, wherein the first bearing member is supported at the inner sleeve.

[0110] A31 Motor according to paragraph A29 or A30, wherein the second bearing member is supported at the inner sleeve.

[0111] A32 Motor according to any one of the preceding paragraphs A29 to A32, wherein the inner sleeve is made of a biocompatible material, preferably of a plastic material, preferably of a thermoplastic material such as polyetheretherketone, polyetherketonketone, polytetrafluorethylene, polyethylene or the like.

[0112] A33 Motor according to any one the preceding paragraphs A29 to A32, wherein the inner sleeve has a wall thickness of at most 0.5 mm in the area of the axial extension of the stator.

[0113] A34 Motor according to any one of the preceding paragraphs A29 to A33, wherein the fluid guiding gap is formed between the inner sleeve and the rotor housing.

[0114] A36 Motor according to any one of the preceding paragraphs A1 to A34, wherein the fluid guiding gap has an annular shape.

[0115] A35 Motor according to paragraph A36, wherein the fluid guiding gap has a height of about 0.5 mm. A36 Motor according to any one the preceding paragraphs A20 to A35, wherein the first spacer comprises a third tapering portion.

[0116] A37 Motor according to any one of the preceding paragraphs A19 to A36, wherein the first bearing member comprises a first cage, wherein the first cage is configured as a first snap cage.

[0117] A38 Motor according to paragraph A37, wherein the first snap cage comprises an open side and a closed side, wherein the open side faces the first motor end.

[0118] A39 Motor according to any one of the preceding paragraphs A20 to A38, wherein the second bearing member comprises a second cage, wherein the second cage is configured as a second snap cage.

[0119] A40 Motor according to paragraph A39, wherein the second snap cage comprise an open side and a closed side, wherein the open side faces the first motor end.

[0120] A41 Motor according to any one of the preceding paragraphs A20 to A40, wherein the first spacer comprises at least one channel and / or at least one axial groove.

[0121] A42 Motor according to any one of the preceding paragaphs A25 to A41 , wherein the second spacer comprises at least one channel and / or at least one axial groove.

[0122] A42 Motor according to any one of the preceding paragraphs A1 to A42, wherein the stator is disposed within a stator chamber, wherein the stator chamber is filed with a potting material.

[0123] A43 Motor according to paragraph A42, wherein the potting material in the stator chamber has a viscosity of at most 200 cPs in the uncured state.

[0124] A44 Motor according to any one of the preceding paragraphs A1 to A43, wherein a fluid connector is provided at the first motor end.

[0125] A45 Motor according to any one of the preceding paragraphs A1 to A44, wherein the motor housing is sealed at the first motor end with a potting material.

[0126] A46 Motor according to paragraph A45, wherein the fluid connector reaches through the potting material sealing the first motor end.

[0127] A47 Motor according to paragraph A46, wherein the fluid connector comprises an undercut section on its outer peripheral surface which provides a form fit in the potting material sealing the first motor end.

[0128] B1 Motor assembly comprising a motor according to any one of the preceding paragraphs A1 to A47, wherein the motor assembly comprises a connector, wherein the connector is attached to the second motor end. B2 Motor assembly according to paragraph B1 , wherein the connector comprises a central through opening extending through the connector,

[0129] B3 Motor assembly according to paragraph B2, wherein the output shaft is at least partially disposed within the central through opening of the connector,

[0130] B4 Motor assembly according to paragraph B2 or B3, wherein the motor assembly comprises a flexible shaft, wherein the flexible shaft is received in the central through opening of the connector.

[0131] B5 Motor assembly according to any one of the preceding paragraphs B1 to B4, wherein the flexible shaft is coupled to the output shaft in a torque transmitting manner,

[0132] B6 Motor assembly according to paragraph B5, wherein the flexible shaft comprises an end with an outer profile mating the inner profile of the output shaft opening.

[0133] B7 Motor assembly according to paragraph B6, wherein a clearance is provided between the end of the flexible shaft an the inner peripheral surface of the output shaft opening.

[0134] B8 Motor assembly according to any one of the preceding paragraphs B1 to B7, wherein a sealing member is disposed between the connector and the motor housing.

[0135] B9 Motor assembly according to any one of the preceding paragraphs B1 to B8, wherein the motor assembly comprises a catheter.

[0136] B10 Motor assembly according to paragraph B9, wherein the central through opening of the connector comprises a catheter attachment portion, wherein an attachment part of the catheter is fixed to the catheter attachment portion.

[0137] B11 Motor assembly according to paragraph B10, wherein the attachment part of the catheter is glued to the catheter attachment portion.

[0138] B12 Motor assembly according to paragraph B11 , wherein the connector comprises at least one glue transmitting opening extending from an outer peripheral surface of the connector into the catheter attachment portion.

[0139] B13 Motor assembly according to any one of the preceding paragraphs B9 to B12, wherein the flexible shaft extends through the catheter.

[0140] B14 Motor assembly according to any one the preceding paragraphs B1 to B13, wherein the connector is threaded to the motor.

[0141] C1 Blood pump comprising a motor according to any one of the preceding paragraphs A1 to A36 or a motor assembly according to any one of the preceding paragraphs B1 to B14. C2 Blood pump according to paragraph C1 , wherein the blood pump is an intravascular blood pump.

[0142] C3 Blood pump according to paragraph C1 or C2, wherein the motor is an extracorporeal motor.

[0143] C4 Blood pump according to any one of the preceding paragraphs C1 to C3, wherein the blood pump comprises an implantable pump section.

[0144] C5 Blood pump according to paragraph C4, wherein the pump section is collapsible and extendable.

[0145] C6 Blood pump according to paragraph C4 or C5, wherein the pump section comprises a pump section housing.

[0146] C7 Blood pump according to paragraph C6, wherein the pump section housing is at least partially composed of struts.

[0147] C8 Blood pump according to paragraph C6 or C7, wherein the pump section housing is at least partially made of nitinol.

[0148] C9 Blood pump according to any one of the preceding paragraphs C4 to C8, wherein a pump element is disposed within the pump section housing.

[0149] C10 Blood pump according to paragraph C9, wherein the pump element is collapsible and extendable.

[0150] C11 Blood pump according to any one the paragraphs C6 to C10, wherein the pump section comprises an inner coating layer.

[0151] C12 Blood pump according to any one of the preceding paragraphs C1 to C11 , wherein the pump section comprises an outer coating layer.

[0152] C13 Blood pump according to any one the preceding paragraphs C1 to C12, wherein the pump section comprises at least one blood flow outlet and an outflow tube connected to the at least one blood flow outlet.

[0153] C14 Blood pump according to paragraph C13, wherein the outflow tube is collapsible and expendable.

[0154] C15 Blood pump according to paragraph C13 or C14, wherein the outflow tube comprises at least one outlet opening.

[0155] As utilized herein, the terms “approximately”, “about”, “substantially” and similar terms are intended to have a broad meaning in harmony with the common and accepted usage by those of ordinary skill in the art to which the subject matter of this disclosure pertains. As utilized herein, "proximal" and "distal" are seen relative to the medical staff or physician. Thus, proximal designates something which is relatively close to the physician whereas distal designates something which is relatively far away from the physician when the blood pump is introduced into the patient’s body. It should be understood by those of skill in the art who review this disclosure that these terms are intended to allow a description of certain features described without restricting the scope of these features to the precise numerical ranges provided. Accordingly, these terms should be interpreted as indicating that insubstantial or inconsequential modifications or alterations of the subject matter described and are considered to be within the scope of the disclosure. The terms „at least partially” or “partially” as used herein mean both partial and entirely or complete respectively. Terms like “first”, “second” or “third” do not denote a specific order, but are only intended to semantically differentiate between the elements.

[0156] LIST OF REFERENCE SIGNS

[0157] 10 blood pump

[0158] 12 catheter

[0159] 14 pump section

[0160] 16 pump element / impeller

[0161] 18 blood flow inlet

[0162] 20 blood flow outlet

[0163] 22 flexible shaft

[0164] 24 atraumatic tip

[0165] 26 pump section housing

[0166] 28 struts

[0167] 30 inner coating layer

[0168] 32 outer coating layer

[0169] 34 fixed distance

[0170] 36 outflow tube

[0171] 38 predetermined distance

[0172] 40 leading edge of impeller

[0173] 42 trailing edge of impeller

[0174] 44 length of impeller

[0175] 46 portion of length of impeller

[0176] 48 mesh

[0177] 50 strut

[0178] 52 outlet opening

[0179] 54 blade

[0180] 60 motor

[0181] 62 motor housing

[0182] 64 stator

[0183] 66 rotor

[0184] 68 first motor end

[0185] 70 second motor end

[0186] 72 fluid path

[0187] 74 fluid guiding gap

[0188] 76 stator chamber

[0189] 78 rotor chamber

[0190] 80 inner sleeve rotor housing magnet proximal bearing member distal bearing member inner peripheral surface of inner sleeve outer sleeve motor flange flange portion central recess of motor flange collar-like extension reduced diameter portion mounting edge centering flange first potting material second potting material electrical connection fluid connector connection profile fluid port undercut section biasing member proximal spacer distal spacer rotor sleeve first shaft extension second shaft extension output shaft output shaft opening circular cylindrical recess torque transmission element

[0191] Plug base body of plug protrusion of plug third potting material return yoke coil assembly platinum carrier circuit board outer threading fluid guiding structure transverse hole funnel-shaped outlet opening first tapering portion second tapering portion motor assembly connector inner threading sealing member central through opening first opening portion second opening portion intermediate opening portion catheter attachment portion glue transmitting opening attachment part of catheter biasing member proximal spacer distal spacer motor third tapering portion axial groove channel biasing member proximal spacer distal spacer motor axial groove channel fluid connector biasing member biasing member receiving space 460 motor

[0192] RA rotational axis

[0193] H heart

[0194] LV left ventricle

Claims

CLAIMS1 . Motor (60, 260, 360, 460) for a blood pump (10), the motor (60, 260, 360, 460) having a first motor end (68) and a second motor end (70) and comprising: a motor housing (62), a stator (64) disposed within the motor housing (62), a rotor (66) disposed within the motor housing (62), a fluid path (72) extending inside the motor (60, 260, 360, 460) between the first motor end (68) and the second motor end (70), and an output shaft (132) coupled to the rotor (66), wherein the rotor (66) is rotatable about a rotational axis (RA) extending in an axial direction, wherein a part of the fluid path (72) is disposed between the stator (64) and the rotor (66) in a radial direction relative to the rotational axis (RA) and forms a fluid guiding gap (74), and wherein the fluid path (72) comprises a fluid guiding structure (160).

2. Motor (60, 260, 360, 460) according to claim 1 , wherein the fluid guiding structure (160) comprises at least one transverse hole (162) at least partially extending through the output shaft (132).

3. Motor (60, 260, 360, 460) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the motor (60, 260, 360, 460) comprises a fluid port (118) at the first motor end (68) extending into the motor housing (62), wherein the fluid guiding structure (160) comprises a funnel-shaped outlet opening (164) in the direction of the rotor (66) connected to the fluid port (118).

4. Motor (60, 260, 360, 460) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the rotor (66) comprises a rotor housing (82) and a magnet (84), wherein the rotor housing (82) comprises a rotor sleeve (126), a first shaft extension (128) disposed at a first end of the rotor sleeve (126) and a second shaft extension (130) disposed at a second end of the rotor sleeve (126), wherein the magnet (84) is fixed inside the rotor sleeve (126).

5. Motor (60, 260, 360, 460) according to claim 4, wherein the first shaft extension (128) comprises a first tapering portion (166) facing the first motor end (68).

6. Motor (60, 260, 360, 460) according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the output shaft (132) is attached to the second shaft extension (130), wherein the output shaft (132) comprises an output shaft opening (134) extending at least partially along the axial extension of the output shaft (132), wherein the output shaft opening (134) preferably comprises a torque transmission element (138), wherein the torque transmission element (138) preferably is an inner profile, and wherein the output shaft (132) is preferably integrally formed with the second shaft extension (130).

7. Motor (60, 260, 360, 460) according to claim 6, wherein the fluid guiding structure (160) is connected to the output shaft opening (134).

8. Motor (60, 260, 360, 460) according to claim 7, wherein the at least one transverse hole (162) opens into the output shaft opening (134).

9. Motor (60, 260, 360, 460) according to any one of claims 4 to 8, wherein the second shaft extension (130) comprises a circular cylindrical recess (136), preferably a bore hole, facing the magnet (84), wherein a plug (140) is disposed within the recess (136), wherein the plug (140) preferably comprises a circular cylindrical plug base body (142) and a protrusion (144) extending in the axial direction from the plug base body (142) in a direction towards the magnet (84), wherein the recess (136) is preferably filled with a potting material (146).

10. Motor (60, 260, 360, 460) according to any one of claims 4 to 9, wherein the motor (60, 260, 360, 460) comprises a first bearing member (86, 88), wherein the rotor housing (82) is supported by the first bearing member (86, 88) so as to be rotatable relative to the stator (64) about the rotational axis (RA), wherein the first bearing member (86, 88) is preloaded by a biasing member (120, 220, 320, 420).11 . Motor (60, 260, 360) according to claim 10, wherein a first spacer (122, 224, 324) is disposed between the biasing member (120, 220, 320) and the first bearing member (86, 88), wherein the first spacer (120, 220, 320) is preferably made of a plastic material, preferably of a thermoplastic material such as polyetheretherketone, polyetherketonketone, polytetrafluorethylene, polyethylene or the like .

12. Motor (60, 260, 360, 460) according to claim 10 or 11 ,wherein the biasing member (120, 220, 320, 420) is a single wave spring or a stack of wave springs, or a Belleville washer or a stack of Belleville washers, or a wave spring washer or a stack of wave spring washers.

13. Motor (60, 260, 360, 460) according to any one of claims 4 to 12, wherein the rotor housing (82) is supported by a second bearing member (86, 88), wherein the second bearing member (86, 88) is fixed to the motor housing (62), and wherein a second spacer (124, 222, 322) abuts the second bearing member (86, 88) in the axial direction, wherein the second spacer (124, 222, 322) is preferably made of a plastic material, preferably of a thermoplastic material such as polyetheretherketone, polyetherketonketone, polytetrafluorethylene, polyethylene or the like.

14. Motor assembly (170) comprising a motor (60, 260, 360, 460) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the motor assembly (170) comprises a connector (172), wherein the connector (172) is attached to the second motor end (70), wherein the connector (172) comprises a central through opening (178) extending through the connector (172), wherein the output shaft (132) is at least partially disposed within the central through opening (178) of the connector (172), wherein the motor assembly (170) comprises a flexible shaft (22), wherein the flexible shaft (22) is received in the central through opening (178) of the connector (172), and wherein the flexible shaft (22) is coupled to the output shaft (132) in a torque transmitting manner, and preferably wherein a sealing member (176) is disposed between the connector (172) and the motor housing (62).

15. Motor assembly (170) according to claim 14, wherein the motor assembly (170) comprises a catheter (12) and the central through opening (178) of the connector (172) comprises a catheter attachment portion (186), wherein an attachment part (190) of the catheter (12) is fixed to the catheter attachment portion (186), wherein the flexible shaft (22) extends through the catheter (12), wherein the attachment part (190) of the catheter (12) is preferably glued to the catheter attachment portion (186).

16. Motor assembly (170) according to claim 15, wherein the connector (172) comprises at least one glue transmitting opening (188) extending from an outer peripheral surface of the connector (172) into the catheter attachment portion (186).

17. Blood pump (10), in particular intravascular blood pump, comprising a motor (60, 260, 360, 460) according to any one of claims 1 to 13 or a motor assembly (170) according to any one of claims 14 to 16.

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