Rotational Atherectomy Device with Exchangeable Drive Shaft
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current rotational atherectomy devices require multiple devices for different burr sizes, with complex and difficult exchange procedures, especially under sterile conditions, due to permanent connections and intricate mechanisms, which complicates the process of using different drive shafts and burrs during a single procedure.
Innovation Solution
A rotational atherectomy device with a handle and exchangeable drive shaft cartridge system, featuring a gear engagement assembly and alignment elements, allowing for easy and secure attachment and detachment of different drive shafts and burrs using complementary connectors and a control knob for longitudinal displacement, enabling the use of various sizes and designs with a single handle.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a permanent connection is used between the drive shaft and the turbine, then the connection is secure and reliable, but the exchange of drive shafts and burrs becomes difficult and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The drive shaft system is segmented into exchangeable components (drive shaft, burr, catheter) that can be independently replaced. The handle with turbine remains permanent while the distal portions are made modular and interchangeable through the connectable driveshaft system.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection between the drive shaft and turbine is made dynamic rather than static. The system transitions from a permanent fixed connection to a connectable/disconnectable mechanism that allows the drive shaft to be exchanged while maintaining secure connection during use.
2Reliability
If multiple Rotablator devices are used for different burr sizes, then each device is optimized for its specific burr size, but the number of devices and complexity of exchange increases
Solution Approach 1:
A single handle with turbine is designed to be universal and compatible with multiple drive shaft sizes and burr types. The connectable driveshaft system allows one handle to perform multiple functions by accepting different exchangeable drive shaft cartridges, eliminating the need for multiple dedicated devices.
3Ease of operation
If a connectable driveshaft system is implemented, then the exchange of drive shafts becomes easier, but the connection mechanism becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The drive shaft is nested within an exchangeable catheter assembly that forms a complete cartridge. This nested structure allows the entire drive shaft assembly to be exchanged as a single unit, simplifying the exchange process while managing the complexity of the connection mechanism through modular design.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Facilitates a more straightforward and efficient exchange of drive shafts and burrs, reducing procedural complexity and improving operational ease, allowing for a single handle to be used throughout the entire procedure without the need for multiple devices.
Implementation Method 1
a gear engagement assembly having a drive shaft gear fixedly attached to the proximal end of the drive shaft
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 1C
AI summary
An atherectomy device with an exchangeable drive shaft is disclosed, having a drive shaft gear at a distal end of the exchangeable drive shaft for meshing engagement with a prime mover gear on the output shaft of the prime mover. The exchangeable drive shaft is inserted into an opening at the distal end of the handle housing and moved axially in a proximal direction. Surface features on at least the prime mover housing and the engageable drive shaft help to align the drive shaft gear with the prime mover gear for meshing engagement.