Catheter Braid Folded Back for Self-Fixation and Radiopacity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Catheters require a fixing tool to secure the end of the reinforcing body to the inner layer and a separate radiopaque marker for visualization during procedures, which complicates the insertion and positioning process.
Innovation Solution
A catheter design featuring a tubular braid that is folded back at least one longitudinal end to contact the inner layer, eliminating the need for a fixing tool and serving as a built-in marker due to its metal composition, allowing the braid to be fixed without additional tools and providing visibility during procedures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If the reinforcing body is folded back on the outer periphery of the inner layer to form multiple layers, then the reinforcing body is loosened and requires a fixing tool to secure the end to the inner layer
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the fixing function into the folded structure itself by positioning the tip end of the braid in the lowest layer of the folded part, allowing the folded structure to self-fix without requiring separate fixing tools like rings. This integrates multiple functions (reinforcement and fixing) into a single structural element.
Solution Approach 2:
The folded braid structure serves itself by using its own configuration to achieve fixation. The tip end of the braid naturally positions itself in the lowest layer of the folded part, creating a self-contained fixing mechanism that eliminates the need for external fixing tools.
2Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If a separate radiopaque ring is used as a marker, then the user can visually recognize the catheter position during procedures, but the device complexity increases and requires additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the marker function with the braid structure by using the folded braid itself as the radiopaque marker. The metal braid material provides inherent radiopacity, eliminating the need for separate radiopaque rings or markers, thus reducing device complexity while maintaining visibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The braid structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides mechanical reinforcement, acts as a fixing element through its folded configuration, and serves as a radiopaque marker for visualization. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate components.
Data Source
AI summary
To provide a catheter that does not require a fixing tool for fixing an end of a reinforcing body to an inner layer and/or a separate marker allowing a user of the catheter to visually recognize a position of the catheter during procedures. A catheter, including an inner layer (9) that is a long hollow tubular body, a tubular braid (11) that covers an outer periphery of the inner layer, and a tubular outer layer (19) that covers an outer periphery of the braid, wherein the braid is folded back at least at one of the longitudinal ends of the inner layer to form a multiple folded part (10) so that a tip end (17) of the braid is in contact with the inner layer and is arranged in the lowest layer of the folded part.