Hollow strand wire

Abstract

To provide a hollow strand wire 2 that can contribute to the torque transmissivity of a device.SOLUTION: A hollow strand wire 2 includes a first layer 4 and a second layer 6. The first layer 4 is formed of three or more stranded first bare wires 10. The second layer 6 is formed of three or more stranded second bare wires 12. A cross-sectional shape of each of the first bare wires 10 is a non-circle including a long axis and a short axis. The long axis is inclined with respect to a length direction A1 of the hollow strand wire 2. In the length direction A1 of the hollow strand wire 2, a position of a front-side first bare wires 10 overlaps with a position of a rear-side first bare wires 10 adjacent to the front-side first bare wires 10.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] This specification discloses a hollow stranded wire suitable for medical devices and the like. [Background technology]

[0002] Medical devices that are inserted into body cavities, such as guidewires, are required to have flexibility, responsiveness, torque transmission, pushability, etc. JP2019-107326A discloses a hollow stranded wire suitable for medical devices. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP2019-107326A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In medical devices using conventional hollow stranded wires, torque transmission is insufficient. The applicant's intention is to provide a hollow stranded wire that can contribute to the torque transmission of various devices such as medical devices. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] The hollow stranded wire disclosed in this specification has a first layer formed by twisting three or more first wires, and a second layer formed by twisting three or more second wires and located on the outside or inside of the first layer. The cross-sectional shape of each of the first wires is non-circular including a major axis and a minor axis. The major axis is inclined with respect to the longitudinal direction of the hollow stranded wire. In the longitudinal direction of the hollow stranded wire, the position of a front first wire overlaps the position of a rear first wire adjacent to the front first wire. Effect of the Invention

[0006] When one end of this hollow stranded wire is rotated, a time lag in rotation is unlikely to occur. A device using this hollow stranded wire has excellent torque transmission properties. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a front view showing a part of a hollow stranded wire according to an embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view along the longitudinal direction of the hollow strand of FIG. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is an enlarged cross-sectional view taken along line III-III in FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing a part of a first wire of the hollow stranded wire of FIG. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing the first wire in FIG. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is an enlarged view showing a part of the hollow stranded wire of FIG. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view showing a part of a hollow stranded wire according to another embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a front view showing a part of a hollow stranded wire according to still another embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing a part of the hollow stranded wire of FIG. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing an apparatus for evaluating the torque transmissibility of the hollow stranded wire of FIG. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a graph showing an example of the measurement results obtained by the device of FIG. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a front view showing an apparatus for evaluating the pushability of the hollow stranded wire of FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0008] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the drawings as appropriate.

[0009] [First embodiment] A hollow stranded wire 2 is shown in Figures 1-3. The hollow stranded wire 2 is made of a metal material. A preferred metal is stainless steel. The hollow stranded wire 2 is long. In Figure 1, an arrow A1 indicates the length direction of the hollow stranded wire 2. In Figure 1, the right side is the front of the hollow stranded wire 2, and the left side is the rear of the hollow stranded wire 2. The hollow stranded wire 2 can be cut to a predetermined length and used as a part of a medical device. Torque applied to one end of the hollow stranded wire 2 is transmitted to the other end.

[0010] This hollow stranded wire 2 has a first layer 4 and a second layer 6. The second layer 6 is located outside the first layer 4. The first layer 4 is formed by twisting a plurality of first elemental wires 10. The second layer 6 is formed by twisting a plurality of second elemental wires 12.

[0011] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the first wires 10 are twisted clockwise toward the front, and the second wires 12 are twisted counterclockwise toward the front. In other words, the twist direction of the second wires 12 is opposite to that of the first wires 10. In this specification, the twist direction of the first wires 10 is referred to as the "Z direction", and the twist direction of the second wires 12 is referred to as the "S direction". The first wires 10 may be twisted in the "S direction", and the second wires 12 may be twisted in the "Z direction". The first wires 10 may be twisted in the "S direction", and the second wires 12 may be twisted in the "S direction". The first wires 10 may be twisted in the "Z direction", and the second wires 12 may be twisted in the "Z direction".

[0012] The first wire 10 is shown in Figs. 4 and 5. As shown in Fig. 4, the first wire 10 is long. As shown in Fig. 5, the cross section of the first wire 10 is non-circular. The contour of the cross section is smooth. In other words, the contour has no corners. Preferably, the contour has no inwardly convex portion. In this embodiment, the cross-sectional shape of the first wire 10 is an ellipse. The contour of the ellipse is an outwardly convex curve at every point. The contour may include an outwardly convex curve and a straight line. The second wire 12 also has the shape shown in Figs. 4 and 5. In other words, Figs. 4 and 5 are also a perspective view and a cross-sectional view showing the second wire 12, respectively. The cross-sectional shape of the second wire 12 may be different from the cross-sectional shape of the first wire 10.

[0013] In Fig. 5, the symbol Ma represents the major axis of the contour shape. The major axis Ma is the longest straight line that can be drawn within the contour of the cross section. In Fig. 5, the symbol Mi represents the minor axis of the contour shape. The minor axis Mi is the longest straight line that satisfies the following (1) and (2). (1) It is a straight line that can be drawn within the outline of the cross section. (2) A straight line perpendicular to the major axis Ma. 5, arrow La represents the length of the major axis Ma, and arrow Li represents the length of the minor axis Mi. The length Li is shorter than the length La. In other words, the cross section of the first wire 10 has directionality.

[0014] In FIG. 6, the right side is the front of the hollow stranded wire 2, the left side is the rear of the hollow stranded wire 2, the upper side is the radially outer side of the hollow stranded wire 2, and the lower side is the radially inner side of the hollow stranded wire 2. FIG. 6 shows two first strands 10 belonging to the first layer 4. Specifically, the front first strand 10a and the rear first strand 10b are shown. The distance from the axis CL (see FIGS. 1 and 2) to the first strand 10b is equal to the distance from the axis CL to the first strand 10a. The long axis Ma (see also FIG. 5) of each of the first strands 10 is inclined with respect to the length direction A1 of the hollow stranded wire 2. The long axis Ma is inward toward the front. Due to this inclination, the front end 14 of the first strand 10b is located forward of the rear end 16 of the first strand 10a. In other words, the first wires 10a and the first wires 10b overlap in the length direction A1 of the hollow stranded wire 2. In the radial direction of the hollow stranded wire 2, the front end 14 of the first wire 10b is located more inward than the rear end 16 of the first wire 10a. The first wires 10b are in contact with the first wires 10a.

[0015] In this first layer 4, when the hollow stranded wire 2 is rotated, force is sufficiently transmitted between the first wires 10 and the adjacent first wires 10. In this first layer 4, a rotation time lag is unlikely to occur. This hollow stranded wire 2 can contribute to the torque transmissibility of medical devices. As is clear from FIG. 2, the first wires 10 overlap over the entire length of the hollow stranded wire 2. The first layer 4 may include locations where there is no overlap due to manufacturing errors, etc.

[0016] In Fig. 6, arrow L1 indicates the overlap distance between the position of the front first wire 10a and the position of the rear first wire 10b in the longitudinal direction of the hollow stranded wire 2. The ratio of this overlap distance L1 to the length La (see Fig. 5) of the major axis Ma of the first wire 10 is preferably 1.0% or more and 20% or less. When this ratio is 1.0% or more, the first layer 4 can contribute to torque transmissibility. From this viewpoint, this ratio is more preferably 2.0% or more, and particularly preferably 2.5% or more. When this ratio is 20% or less, the hollow stranded wire 2 has excellent flexibility. From this viewpoint, this ratio is more preferably 17% or less, and particularly preferably 15% or less.

[0017] In Fig. 6, arrow α1 indicates the angle of the major axis Ma of the first wire 10 with respect to the longitudinal direction A1 of the hollow stranded wire 2. The absolute value of angle α1 is preferably 2° or more and 30° or less. The first layer 4 whose absolute value is 2° or more can contribute to torque transmissibility. From this viewpoint, the absolute value is more preferably 4° or more, and particularly preferably 5° or more. The hollow stranded wire 2 whose absolute value is 30° or less has excellent flexibility. From this viewpoint, the absolute value is more preferably 17° or less, and particularly preferably 15° or less.

[0018] FIG. 6 further shows two second wires 12 belonging to the second layer 6. Specifically, a front second wire 12a and a rear second wire 12b are shown. The distance from the axis CL (see FIGS. 1 and 2) to the second wire 12b is equal to the distance from the axis CL to the second wire 12a. The long axis Ma (see also FIG. 5) of each second wire 12 is inclined with respect to the length direction A1 of the hollow stranded wire 2. The long axis Ma faces inward toward the front. Due to this inclination, the front end 18 of the second wire 12b is located forward of the rear end 20 of the second wire 12a. In other words, in the length direction A1 of the hollow stranded wire 2, the position of the second wire 12a and the position of the second wire 12b overlap. In the radial direction of the hollow stranded wire 2, the front end 18 of the second wire 12b is located inside the rear end 20 of the second wire 12a. The second wire 12b is in contact with the second wire 12a.

[0019] In the second layer 6, when the hollow stranded wire 2 is rotated, force is sufficiently transmitted between the second wires 12 adjacent thereto. In the second layer 6, a time lag in rotation is unlikely to occur. The hollow stranded wire 2 can contribute to the torque transmission of medical devices. As is clear from FIG. 2, the second wires 12 overlap over the entire length of the hollow stranded wire 2. The second layer 6 may include portions where there is no overlap due to manufacturing errors or the like.

[0020] In Fig. 6, an arrow L2 indicates the overlap distance between the position of the front second wire 12a and the position of the rear second wire 12b in the longitudinal direction of the hollow stranded wire 2. The ratio of this overlap distance L2 to the length La (see Fig. 5) of the major axis Ma of the second wire 12 is preferably 1.0% or more and 20% or less. When this ratio is 1.0% or more, the second layer 6 can contribute to torque transmissibility. From this viewpoint, this ratio is more preferably 2.0% or more, and particularly preferably 2.5% or more. When this ratio is 20% or less, the hollow stranded wire 2 has excellent flexibility. From this viewpoint, this ratio is more preferably 17% or less, and particularly preferably 15% or less.

[0021] In Fig. 6, arrow α2 indicates the angle of the major axis Ma of the second wire 12 with respect to the length direction A1 of the hollow stranded wire 2. The absolute value of angle α2 is preferably 2° or more and 30° or less. The second layer 6 having an absolute value of 2° or more can contribute to torque transmissibility. From this viewpoint, the absolute value is more preferably 4° or more, and particularly preferably 5° or more. The hollow stranded wire 2 having an absolute value of 30° or less has excellent flexibility. From this viewpoint, the absolute value is more preferably 17° or less, and particularly preferably 15° or less.

[0022] In this embodiment, there is overlap of the strands in both the first layer 4 and the second layer 6. There may be overlap of the strands only in the first layer 4. There may be overlap of the strands only in the second layer 6.

[0023] In Fig. 1, arrow β1 indicates the twist angle of the first layer 4. The absolute value of twist angle β1 is preferably 85° or less. The first wires 10 having an absolute value of 85° or less can contribute to torque transmissibility and pushability. From this viewpoint, the absolute value is more preferably 82° or less, and particularly preferably 80° or less. The absolute value is preferably 50° or more.

[0024] As shown in FIG. 1 , the first layer 4 is formed by twisting six first wires 10 (101, 102, 103, 104, 105, 106). In other words, the number of threads in the first layer 4 is six. This number of threads is preferably three or more. In the first layer 4 having three or more threads, an angle β1 with a small absolute value can be achieved. From this viewpoint, the number of threads is more preferably five or more, and particularly preferably six or more. The number of threads is preferably 16 or less.

[0025] In Fig. 1, an arrow β2 indicates the twist angle of the second layer 6. The absolute value of twist angle β2 is preferably 85° or less. The second wires 12 having an absolute value of 85° or less can contribute to torque transmissibility and pushability. From this viewpoint, the absolute value is more preferably 82° or less, and particularly preferably 80° or less. The absolute value is preferably 50° or more.

[0026] As shown in FIG. 1 , the second layer 6 is formed by twisting six second wires 12 (121, 122, 123, 124, 125, 126). In other words, the number of threads in the second layer 6 is six. This number of threads is preferably three or more. In the second layer 6 having three or more threads, an angle β2 with a small absolute value can be achieved. From this viewpoint, the number of threads is more preferably five or more, and particularly preferably six or more. The number of threads is preferably 16 or less.

[0027] As described above, the twisting direction of the second wires 12 is opposite to that of the first wires 10. When the hollow stranded wire 2 is rotated counterclockwise, a rotational time lag is unlikely to occur in the first layer 4. Therefore, the first layer 4 contributes to torque transmissibility. When the hollow stranded wire 2 is rotated clockwise, a rotational time lag is unlikely to occur in the second layer 6. Therefore, the second layer 6 contributes to torque transmissibility. The hollow stranded wire 2 has excellent torque transmissibility regardless of the rotation direction.

[0028] The two-dot chain line indicated by the symbol CC in Fig. 3 is the circumscribing circle of the hollow stranded wire 2. The circumscribing circle CC is the smallest circle that can contain the entire cross-sectional contour of the hollow stranded wire 2 inside. The arrow Dc indicates the diameter of the circumscribing circle CC. In this specification, this diameter Dc is referred to as the "outer diameter of the hollow stranded wire." From the viewpoint of facilitating insertion of a medical device using the hollow stranded wire 2 into a body cavity, the outer diameter Dc is preferably 5.0 mm or less, more preferably 3.0 mm or less, and particularly preferably 2.0 mm or less.

[0029] The two-dot chain line indicated by the symbol IC in Fig. 3 is the inscribed circle of the hollow stranded wire 2. The inscribed circle IC is the largest circle that can be drawn inside the cross section of the hollow stranded wire 2. The arrow Di indicates the diameter of this inscribed circle IC. In this specification, this diameter Di is referred to as the "inner diameter of the hollow stranded wire." From the viewpoint of facilitating passage of other members inside, the inner diameter Di is preferably 0.2 mm or more, more preferably 0.5 mm or more, and particularly preferably 1.0 mm or more.

[0030] In the present invention, the average diameter D of the hollow stranded wire 2 is calculated by the following formula. D = (Dc + Di) / 2 In the present invention, the thickness T of the hollow stranded wire 2 is calculated by the following formula. T = (Dc - Di) / 2

[0031] The ratio (D / T) of the average diameter D to the thickness T is preferably 5 or more and 20 or less. In a hollow stranded wire 2 with a ratio (D / T) of 5 or more, other members can be easily passed through the inside. From this viewpoint, the ratio (D / T) is more preferably 6 or more, and particularly preferably 8 or more. A hollow stranded wire 2 with a ratio (D / T) of 20 or less has excellent pushability. From this viewpoint, the ratio (D / T) is more preferably 18 or less, and particularly preferably 16 or less.

[0032] The ratio (La / Li) of the length La (see FIG. 5) of the major axis Ma of the first wire 10 or the second wire 12 to the length Li of the minor axis Mi is preferably 1.5 or more and 10 or less. A hollow stranded wire 2 having a ratio (La / Li) of 1.5 or more has excellent pushability. From this viewpoint, the ratio (La / Li) is more preferably 1.8 or more, and particularly preferably 2.0 or more. A hollow stranded wire 2 having a ratio (La / Li) of 10 or less is flexible. From this viewpoint, the ratio (La / Li) is more preferably 8 or less, and particularly preferably 7 or less.

[0033] To manufacture the hollow stranded wire 2, a base wire is first rolled or drawn using a special die to obtain the first strand 10 and the second strand 12. Next, a core wire is prepared. A plurality of first strands 10 are twisted around this core wire to form the first layer 4. A plurality of second strands 12 are twisted around this first layer 4 to form the second layer 6. The stranded wire consisting of the first layer 4 and the second layer 6 is then post-heat treated. The post-heat treatment stabilizes the shapes of the first layer 4 and the second layer 6. After this heat treatment, the stranded wire is cut to a predetermined length. The core wire is then pulled out of the first layer 4 to obtain the hollow stranded wire 2.

[0034] A typical application of the hollow stranded wire 2 is a guide wire used in catheter examinations. Other applications include the shaft of a catheter for removing blood clots, the shaft of a catheter for IVUS (intravascular ultrasound), a wire for operating devices in an endoscope, and industrial operating parts.

[0035] [Second embodiment] 7 shows a hollow stranded wire 22 according to another embodiment. The hollow stranded wire 22 has a first layer 24 and a second layer 26. The second layer 26 is located outside the first layer 24. The first layer 24 is formed by twisting a plurality of first strands 28. The second layer 26 is formed by twisting a plurality of second strands 30. The configuration of the first layer 24 is the same as that of the first layer 4 shown in FIGS. 1-6.

[0036] FIG. 7 shows two second wires 30 belonging to the second layer 26. Specifically, a front second wire 30a and a rear second wire 30b are shown. The distance from the axis CL to the second wire 30b is equal to the distance from the axis CL to the second wire 30a. The long axis Ma of each second wire 30 is inclined with respect to the length direction A1 of the hollow stranded wire 22. The long axis Ma faces outward toward the front. Due to this inclination, the front end 32 of the second wire 30b is located forward of the rear end 34 of the second wire 30a. In other words, in the length direction A1 of the hollow stranded wire 22, the position of the second wire 30a and the position of the second wire 30b overlap. In the radial direction of the hollow stranded wire 22, the front end 32 of the second wire 30b is located outside of the rear end 34 of the second wire 30a. The second wire 30b is in contact with the second wire 30a.

[0037] In the second layer 26, when the hollow stranded wire 22 is rotated, force is sufficiently transmitted between the second strands 30 and the adjacent second strands 30. In the second layer 26, a time lag in rotation is unlikely to occur. The hollow stranded wire 22 can contribute to the torque transmission of medical devices. It is preferable that the second strands 30 overlap over the entire length of the hollow stranded wire 22. The second layer 26 may include portions where there is no overlap due to manufacturing errors or the like.

[0038] In Fig. 7, an arrow L3 indicates the overlap distance between the position of the front second wire 30a and the position of the rear second wire 30b in the longitudinal direction of the hollow stranded wire 22. The ratio of this overlap distance L3 to the length of the major axis Ma of the second wire 30 is preferably 1.0% or more and 20% or less. When this ratio is 1.0% or more, the second layer 26 can contribute to torque transmissibility. From this viewpoint, this ratio is more preferably 2.0% or more, and particularly preferably 2.5% or more. When this ratio is 20% or less, the hollow stranded wire 22 has excellent flexibility. From this viewpoint, this ratio is more preferably 17% or less, and particularly preferably 15% or less.

[0039] In Fig. 7, arrow α3 indicates the angle of the long axis Ma of the second wire 30 with respect to the length direction A1 of the hollow stranded wire 22. The absolute value of angle α3 is preferably 2° or more and 30° or less. The second layer 26 having an absolute value of 2° or more can contribute to torque transmissibility. From this viewpoint, the absolute value is more preferably 4° or more, and particularly preferably 5° or more. The hollow stranded wire 22 having an absolute value of 30° or less has excellent flexibility. From this viewpoint, the absolute value is more preferably 17° or less, and particularly preferably 15° or less.

[0040] In this hollow stranded wire 22, the long axes Ma of the first wires 28 are oriented inward toward the front, and the long axes Ma of the second wires 30 are oriented outward toward the front. The inclination direction of the long axes Ma of the second wires 30 is opposite to the inclination direction of the long axes Ma of the first wires 28. This hollow stranded wire 22 has excellent torque transmission properties regardless of the rotation direction.

[0041] The twist direction of the first wires 28 may be either the "Z direction" or the "S direction". The twist direction of the second wires 30 may be either the "Z direction" or the "S direction". From the viewpoint of uniform torque transmissibility, it is preferable that the twist direction of the second wires 30 is opposite to the twist direction of the first wires 28.

[0042] [Third embodiment] 8 shows a hollow stranded wire 36 according to yet another embodiment. The hollow stranded wire 36 has a first layer 38, a second layer 40, and a third layer 42. The second layer 40 is located outside the first layer 38. The third layer 42 is located outside the second layer 40. The first layer 38 is formed by twisting a plurality of first strands 44. The second layer 40 is formed by twisting a plurality of second strands 46. The third layer 42 is formed by twisting a plurality of third strands 48.

[0043] 9 shows two first strands 44 belonging to the first layer 38, two second strands 46 belonging to the second layer 40, and two third strands 48 belonging to the third layer 42. The configurations of the first layer 38 and the second layer 40 are the same as those of the first layer 4 and the second layer 6 shown in FIG. 6. The cross-sectional shape of each of the third strands 48 is the same as that of the first strands 44.

[0044] FIG. 9 shows the front third wire 48a and the rear third wire 48b. The distance from the axis CL (see FIG. 8) to the third wire 48b is equal to the distance from the axis CL to the third wire 48a. The long axis Ma of each third wire 48 is inclined with respect to the length direction A1 of the hollow stranded wire 36. The long axis Ma faces inward toward the front. Due to this inclination, the front end 50 of the third wire 48b is located forward of the rear end 52 of the third wire 48a. In other words, in the length direction A1 of the hollow stranded wire 36, the positions of the third wire 48a and the third wire 48b overlap. In the radial direction of the hollow stranded wire 36, the front end 50 of the third wire 48b is located inside the rear end 52 of the third wire 48a. The third wire 48b is in contact with the third wire 48a.

[0045] In the third layer 42, when the hollow stranded wire 36 is rotated, force is sufficiently transmitted between the third wires 48 and the adjacent third wires 48. In the third layer 42, a rotation time lag is unlikely to occur. The hollow stranded wire 36 can contribute to the torque transmission of medical devices. It is preferable that the third wires 48 overlap over the entire length of the hollow stranded wire 36. The third layer 42 may include portions where there is no overlap due to manufacturing errors or the like.

[0046] In Fig. 9, an arrow L4 indicates the overlap distance between the position of the front third wire 48a and the position of the rear third wire 48b in the longitudinal direction of the hollow stranded wire 36. The ratio of this overlap distance L4 to the length of the major axis Ma of the third wire 48 is preferably 1.0% or more and 20% or less. When this ratio is 1.0% or more, the third layer 42 can contribute to torque transmissibility. From this viewpoint, this ratio is more preferably 2.0% or more, and particularly preferably 2.5% or more. When this ratio is 20% or less, the hollow stranded wire 36 has excellent flexibility. From this viewpoint, this ratio is more preferably 17% or less, and particularly preferably 15% or less.

[0047] In Fig. 9, arrow α4 indicates the angle of the major axis Ma of the third wire 48 with respect to the length direction A1 of the hollow stranded wire 36. The absolute value of angle α4 is preferably 2° or more and 30° or less. The third layer 42 having an absolute value of 2° or more can contribute to torque transmissibility. From this viewpoint, the absolute value is more preferably 4° or more, and particularly preferably 5° or more. The hollow stranded wire 36 having an absolute value of 30° or less has excellent flexibility. From this viewpoint, the absolute value is more preferably 17° or less, and particularly preferably 15° or less.

[0048] In this embodiment, the inclination direction of the long axis Ma of the second wires 46 is the same as the inclination direction of the long axis Ma of the first wires 44, and the inclination direction of the long axis Ma of the third wires 48 is the same as the inclination direction of the long axis Ma of the first wires 44. The hollow stranded wire 36 may have a layered structure in which the inclination direction of the long axis Ma of the second wires 46 is the same as the inclination direction of the long axis Ma of the first wires 44, and the inclination direction of the long axis Ma of the third wires 48 is opposite to the inclination direction of the long axis Ma of the first wires 44. The hollow stranded wire 36 may have a layered structure in which the inclination direction of the long axis Ma of the second wires 46 is opposite to the inclination direction of the long axis Ma of the first wires 44, and the inclination direction of the long axis Ma of the third wires 48 is the same as the inclination direction of the long axis Ma of the first wires 44. The hollow strand 36 may have a layered structure in which the inclination direction of the long axis Ma of the second strand 46 is opposite to the inclination direction of the long axis Ma of the first strand 44, and the inclination direction of the long axis Ma of the third strand 48 is opposite to the inclination direction of the long axis Ma of the first strand 44.

[0049] As shown in Fig. 8, the twist direction of the first wires 44 is the "Z direction", the twist direction of the second wires 46 is the "S direction", and the twist direction of the third wires 48 is the "Z direction". The twist direction of the second wires 46 is opposite to the twist direction of the first wires 44, and the twist direction of the third wires 48 is the same as the twist direction of the first wires 44. This hollow stranded wire 36 has excellent torque transmission properties regardless of the rotation direction. The twist direction of the second wires 46 may be the same as the twist direction of the first wires 44. The twist direction of the third wires 48 may be opposite to the twist direction of the second wires 46. EXAMPLES

[0050] The effects of the hollow stranded wire according to the examples will be explained below, but the scope of the present specification should not be construed as being limited based on the description of these examples.

[0051] [Experiment 1] [Example 1] A wire was obtained by drawing and rolling the steel material, the material of which was SUS304, using a special die. The cross-sectional shape of this wire was elliptical. The length Li of the short axis of this wire was 0.075 mm, and the length La of the long axis of this wire was 0.170 mm. Six wires were twisted on the core wire to form a first layer. The twist direction of this first layer was the Z direction. The absolute value of the twist angle of this first layer was 74°. Six wires were twisted on this first layer to form a second layer. The twist direction of this second layer was the S direction. The absolute value of the twist angle of this second layer was 74°. A stranded wire made of these wires was subjected to a post-heat treatment. This stranded wire was cut to a predetermined length. The core wire was removed from this stranded wire to obtain a hollow stranded wire of Example 1. The outer diameter Dc of this hollow stranded wire was 1.30 mm, and the inner diameter Di was 1.00 mm. This hollow strand had a cross-sectional shape shown in FIG.

[0052] [Example 2] A hollow strand of Example 2 was obtained in the same manner as in Example 1, except that a strand having a major axis length La of 0.180 mm was used.

[0053] [Comparative Example 1] A hollow stranded wire of Comparative Example 1 was obtained in the same manner as in Example 1, except that a wire having a rectangular cross section (that is, a flat wire) was used.

[0054] [Torque transmission] The torque transmission is evaluated by the difference between the rotation angle at the base end side and the rotation angle at the tip end side when the base end side of the hollow stranded wire is rotated. As shown in FIG. 10, a rigid pipe 60 having a double spiral portion 54, a first straight portion 56, and a second straight portion 58 is prepared. The diameter of the double spiral portion 54 is 200 mm. A hollow stranded wire 62 is passed through this rigid pipe 60. A rotational force is applied to the base end side 64 of the hollow stranded wire 62 in the direction shown by the arrow A2 in FIG. 10. As a result, the tip side 66 of the hollow stranded wire 62 rotates as shown by the arrow A3. The rotation angles of the base end side 64 and the tip side 66 are measured simultaneously.

[0055] FIG. 11 is a graph showing the results of the rotation tracking measured by the method of FIG. 10. The two-dot chain line in the graph is a straight line indicating that the difference between the rotation angle of the base end side 64 and the rotation angle of the tip end side 66 is zero in the entire measurement angle range (the input rotation angle range from 0° to about 720°). The difference between the rotation angle of the base end side 64 and the rotation angle of the tip end side 66 of the hollow stranded wire 62 being measured is represented as the difference in the vertical axis direction between the two-dot chain line in the figure and the measurement value curve. The maximum value of the rotation angle difference measured in the input rotation angle range from 0° to 720° is a value that correlates with torque transmissibility. The maximum value of the angle difference of the hollow stranded wire 62 is shown as an index in Table 1 below. A hollow stranded wire with a small index has excellent torque transmissibility.

[0056] [Pushability] As shown in Fig. 12, the vicinity of a first end 70 of a hollow strand 68 was fixed with a chuck 72. The distance from this chuck 72 to a second end 74 of the hollow strand 68 was 100 mm. The hollow strand 68 curved under its own weight, and the second end 74 moved downward. This movement distance L was measured. This movement distance L is shown as an index in Table 1 below. A hollow strand 68 with a smaller index has high rigidity. A hollow strand 68 with a smaller index has excellent pushability.

[0057] [Table 1]

[0058] As shown in Table 1, the hollow stranded wires of the respective Examples are excellent in rotational followability and pushability. From these evaluation results, the superiority of the present invention is clear.

[0059] [Experiment 2] [Example 3] The steel material, SUS304, was subjected to wire drawing using a special die and rolling to obtain a strand. The cross-sectional shape of this strand was elliptical. The length Li of the short axis of this strand was 0.045 mm, and the length La of the long axis of this strand was 0.270 mm. Eight strands were twisted on the core wire to form a first layer. The twist direction of this first layer was the Z direction. The absolute value of the twist angle of this first layer was 67°. Eight strands were twisted on this first layer to form a second layer. The twist direction of this second layer was the S direction. The absolute value of the twist angle of this second layer was 67°. Eight strands were twisted on this second layer to form a third layer. The twist direction of this third layer was the Z direction. The absolute value of the twist angle of this third layer was 67°. A strand made of these strands was subjected to post-heat treatment. This strand was cut to a predetermined length. The core wire was removed from this strand to obtain a hollow strand of Example 3. This hollow strand had an outer diameter Dc of 1.77 mm and an inner diameter Di of 1.50 mm. This hollow strand had a cross-sectional shape shown in FIG.

[0060] [Comparative Example 2] A hollow stranded wire of Comparative Example 2 was obtained in the same manner as in Example 3, except that a wire having a rectangular cross section (that is, a flat wire) was used.

[0061] [Torque transmission] The torque transmission properties of the hollow stranded wire were evaluated in the same manner as in Experiment 1. The results are shown in Table 2 below.

[0062] [Pushability] The pushability of the hollow stranded wire was evaluated in the same manner as in Experiment 1. The results are shown in Table 2 below.

[0063] [Table 2]

[0064] As shown in Table 2, the hollow stranded wire of Example 3 is excellent in rotational followability and pushability. From these evaluation results, the superiority of the present invention is clear.

[0065] [Disclosure items] Each of the following sections discloses a preferred embodiment.

[0066] [Item 1] a first layer formed by twisting three or more first wires; A hollow stranded wire including a second layer formed by twisting three or more second wires and positioned on the outside or inside of the first layer, Each of the first wires has a non-circular cross-sectional shape including a major axis and a minor axis, the long axis is inclined with respect to the longitudinal direction of the hollow strand, A hollow strand, in which a front first wire overlaps with a rear first wire adjacent to the front first wire in the longitudinal direction of the hollow strand.

[0067] [Item 2] 2. The hollow strand according to item 1, wherein an overlap distance between a position of the front first wire and a position of the rear first wire is 1.0% or more and 20% or less of the length of the major axis.

[0068] [Item 3] Each of the second wires has a non-circular cross-sectional shape including a major axis and a minor axis; the long axis is inclined with respect to the longitudinal direction of the hollow strand, 3. The hollow strand according to item 1 or 2, wherein a position of a front second wire and a position of a rear second wire adjacent to the front second wire overlap in a longitudinal direction of the hollow strand.

[0069] [Item 4] 4. The hollow strand according to item 3, wherein an overlap distance between a position of the front second wire and a position of the rear second wire is 1.0% or more and 20% or less of the length of the major axis.

[0070] [Item 5] 5. The hollow strand according to item 3 or 4, wherein the inclination direction of the major axis of the second strand is opposite to the inclination direction of the major axis of the first strand.

[0071] [Item 6] 6. The hollow stranded wire according to any one of items 1 to 5, wherein the second wires are twisted in a direction opposite to the direction in which the first wires are twisted.

[0072] [Item 7] 7. The hollow strand according to any one of items 1 to 6, wherein the first strands have a twist angle of 85° or less, and the second strands have a twist angle of 85° or less.

[0073] [Item 8] 8. The hollow stranded wire according to any one of items 1 to 7, further comprising a third layer formed by twisting three or more third wires and positioned on the outside or inside of the first layer and the second layer.

[0074] [Item 9] Each of the third wires has a non-circular cross-sectional shape including a major axis and a minor axis; the long axis is inclined with respect to the longitudinal direction of the hollow strand, Item 9. The hollow strand according to item 8, wherein a position of a front third wire and a position of a rear third wire adjacent to the front third wire overlap in a longitudinal direction of the hollow strand.

[0075] [Item 10] the second layer is positioned outside the first layer, the third layer is positioned outside the second layer, The second wire is twisted in a direction opposite to the direction of twist of the first wire, Item 10. The hollow stranded wire according to item 8 or 9, wherein the third wires are twisted in the same direction as the first wires. [Industrial Applicability]

[0076] The hollow stranded wire described above is suitable for various medical devices. This hollow stranded wire is also suitable for applications other than medical devices. [Explanation of symbols]

[0077] 2...Hollow stranded wire 4...First layer 6...Second layer 10...first strand 10a: First front wire 10b: Rear first wire 12...Second wire 12a: Second front wire 12b: Rear second wire 22...Hollow stranded wire 24...first layer 26...Second layer 28...first strand 30...Second wire 30a: Second front wire 30b: Rear second wire 36...Hollow stranded wire 38...first layer 40...Second layer 42...Third layer 44...first strand 46...Second wire 48...Third wire 48a Front third wire 48b Rear third wire

Claims

1. a first layer formed by twisting three or more first wires; A hollow stranded wire including a second layer formed by twisting three or more second wires and positioned on the outside or inside of the first layer, Each of the first wires has a non-circular cross-sectional shape including a major axis and a minor axis, the long axis is inclined with respect to the longitudinal direction of the hollow strand, A hollow strand, in which a front first wire overlaps with a rear first wire adjacent to the front first wire in the longitudinal direction of the hollow strand.

2. 2. The hollow strand according to claim 1, wherein an overlap distance between a position of the front first wire and a position of the rear first wire is 1.0% or more and 20% or less of a length of the major axis.

3. Each of the second wires has a non-circular cross-sectional shape including a major axis and a minor axis; the long axis is inclined with respect to the longitudinal direction of the hollow strand, 3. The hollow strand according to claim 1, wherein a front second wire and a rear second wire adjacent to the front second wire overlap in a longitudinal direction of the hollow strand.

4. 4. The hollow strand according to claim 3, wherein an overlap distance between a position of the front second wire and a position of the rear second wire is 1.0% or more and 20% or less of a length of the major axis.

5. 4. The hollow strand according to claim 3, wherein the direction in which the major axes of the second strands are inclined is opposite to the direction in which the major axes of the first strands are inclined.

6. 3. The hollow strand according to claim 1, wherein the second wires are twisted in a direction opposite to the direction in which the first wires are twisted.

7. 3. The hollow stranded wire according to claim 1, wherein the first strands have a twist angle of 85° or less, and the second strands have a twist angle of 85° or less.

8. 3. The hollow stranded wire according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a third layer formed by twisting three or more third wires and positioned on the outside or inside of the first layer and the second layer.

9. Each of the third wires has a non-circular cross-sectional shape including a major axis and a minor axis; the long axis is inclined with respect to the longitudinal direction of the hollow strand, 9. The hollow strand according to claim 8, wherein a front third wire and a rear third wire adjacent to the front third wire overlap in a longitudinal direction of the hollow strand.

10. the second layer is positioned outside the first layer, the third layer is positioned outside the second layer, The second wire is twisted in a direction opposite to the direction of twist of the first wire, 9. The hollow strand according to claim 8, wherein the third strands are twisted in the same direction as the first strands.

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