Cable-Driven Valve for Endovascular Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current endovascular introducer systems for surgical instruments are complex, costly, and bulky, with inefficient actuation mechanisms that do not provide a satisfactory seal during procedures, leading to potential blood backflow and ergonomic issues.
Innovation Solution
A valve system using a cable drive mechanism for torsional deformation of a flexible section, allowing one-handed operation with a compact design, flexible cable routing, and a return spring for automatic closure, enabling precise control and adaptation to the size of the introduced element for effective sealing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a complex rack and toothed wheel drive system is used to twist the cylindrical element, then the sealing capability is improved, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the complex rack and toothed wheel mechanical drive system with a cable-driven actuation system. The cable transmits rotational force directly to the cylindrical element, eliminating the need for intermediate mechanical components like racks and gears, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining the twisting function needed for sealing.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts and removes the unnecessary intermediate mechanical components (rack and toothed wheels) from the actuation system, keeping only the essential cable-driven rotation mechanism. This simplification maintains the core sealing function while eliminating complex components that increase manufacturing cost and device bulk.
2Reliability
If a complex rack and toothed wheel drive system is used, then the sealing capability is improved, but the product size becomes bulky
Solution Approach 1:
The cable-driven system replaces the bulky rack and toothed wheel assembly with a compact cable routing mechanism. The cable can be routed through guides and pulleys within the existing instrument structure, significantly reducing the space required for the actuation system while preserving the sealing function.
Solution Approach 2:
The cable-driven actuation components are nested within the existing instrument structure. The cable routing paths are integrated into the instrument's hollow channels and structural elements, allowing the actuation system to occupy minimal additional space while maintaining full functionality.
3Device complexity
If a cable drive system is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the sealing precision may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes cable parameters such as tension, routing angle, and attachment point positioning to ensure precise control of the cylindrical element's rotation. By carefully selecting and adjusting these parameters, the cable-driven system achieves the same rotational precision as the removed mechanical system, maintaining sealing accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The design incorporates feedback mechanisms where the operator can sense the resistance and position of the cylindrical element during rotation. This tactile feedback allows the operator to maintain precise control over the sealing process, compensating for any lack of mechanical precision in the cable-driven system.
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 valve system provides a cost-effective, ergonomic, and efficient means to prevent blood backflow, allowing smooth operation with reduced manufacturing costs and improved ergonomics, ensuring a secure seal during endovascular interventions.
Implementation Method 1
a passage that can be at least partially closed by torsional deformation of a flexible section of the passage wall
Implementation Method 2
the return means consist of a torsional spring the end of which is fixed and whose other end acts in rotation with mobile end of flexible section
Implementation Method 3
the actuating means comprise a cable for transmitting movement to the mobile end of flexible section
Implementation Method 4
the angle drive consists of a pulley
Data Source
AI summary
A valve for surgical or medical instruments includes a passage that can be at least partially sealed by twisting a flexible section (1) of the passage wall, an element for rotating a mobile end (3) of flexible section (1), characterized in that the actuating element includes a cable for transmitting movement to mobile end (3) of the flexible section. Also described is a surgical or medical instrument including a valve as detailed.