Biased Lead Connector for Operating Room Cable Assembly
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional lead connectors for implantable electrical stimulation systems are bulky, difficult to operate, and lack a clear mechanism for loading and locking leads, which complicates the process in the operating room.
Innovation Solution
A push-button lead connector with a housing, a lead lumen, and a contact assembly that moves between load and lock positions, facilitated by a spring bias and a button mechanism, allowing easy insertion and secure locking of leads or lead extensions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional lead connectors are used, then lead connection is achieved, but the connector becomes bulky and difficult to operate
Solution Approach 1:
The lead connector is divided into distinct functional modules: a button mechanism for actuation, a contact assembly for electrical connection, and a lead retention mechanism. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, simplifying the overall operation while maintaining connection reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The contact assembly is designed to move dynamically between positions when the button is pressed, transitioning from a locked state to an unlocked state. This dynamic mechanism enables easy lead insertion and removal while keeping the connector compact, resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and device complexity
2Ease of operation
If conventional lead connectors are used, then lead connection is achieved, but the loading and locking mechanism becomes unclear and complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The button mechanism automatically performs both the loading and locking functions through a single user action. When the button is pressed, it simultaneously releases the lead retention and disengages the contacts, allowing the lead to be easily removed without requiring the user to understand complex mechanical sequences
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using a complex multi-step locking mechanism that requires detailed user understanding, the design inverts the approach by using a simple button press that reverses the locking state. This intuitive inversion makes the operation clear and straightforward while reducing mechanism complexity
3Reliability
If a secure locking mechanism is implemented, then lead retention is ensured, but the connector becomes more complex and difficult to operate
Solution Approach 1:
The locking function is extracted as a separate, simple button actuation mechanism rather than being integrated into a complex structural system. The button independently controls the lead retention and contact engagement, providing reliable locking while maintaining ease of operation
Solution Approach 2:
The lead retention mechanism and contact assembly are merged into a single button-controlled system. Pressing the button simultaneously releases both the mechanical retention and electrical contacts, ensuring reliable lead securement while keeping the operation simple and intuitive
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
The solution provides a simpler, quicker, and more intuitive mechanism for connecting and disconnecting leads, reducing the complexity and effort required during surgical procedures while ensuring secure engagement of leads within the connector.
Implementation Method 1
at least one spring disposed between the contact assembly and the housing and configured and arranged to bias the contact assembly to the lock position
Data Source
AI summary
An operating room cable assembly for an electrical stimulation system that includes a lead connector having a housing, a lead lumen extending inwardly from a first opening in the housing and configured and arranged to receive a portion of a lead or lead extension, and a contact assembly disposed within the housing and configured and arranged to move relative to the housing. The contact assembly is configured and arranged to move to a load position and is biased to return to a lock position. The contact assembly includes of contacts that are configured and arranged to engage a portion of any lead or lead extension within the lead lumen when the contact assembly is in the lock position and to disengage from the portion of the lead or lead extension within the lead lumen when the contact assembly is in the load position.