Multi-arm Catheter Braid Wire Signal Transmission
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Solution Overview
Problem
Multi-arm medical probes face limitations in the number of sensors and electrodes due to the need for additional cabling through the catheter lumen, which constrains probe diameter and limits the number of sensors that can be used.
Innovation Solution
The use of a braid of wires in each arm for both mechanical support and signal transmission, eliminating the need for additional cabling and allowing any desired number of electrodes and sensors without increasing the probe diameter.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If additional cabling is used to connect sensors and electrodes in multi-arm probes, then the number of sensors and electrodes can be increased, but the probe diameter increases which limits the number of sensors that can be used
Solution Approach 1:
The braid wires serve dual functions: providing mechanical support for the arm structure and transmitting electrical signals from electrodes and sensors. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate cabling, allowing multiple sensors to be accommodated without increasing probe diameter.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the structural support function and signal transmission function into a single integrated system using the braid wires. The braid structure that previously only provided mechanical support is now merged with the electrical signaling function, reducing the overall cable infrastructure needed.
2Reliability
If additional cabling is routed through the catheter lumen to connect distal sensors, then signal transmission capability is improved, but the catheter lumen becomes constrained and probe diameter increases
Solution Approach 1:
The braid wires perform both mechanical support and electrical signal transmission functions simultaneously. This eliminates the need for separate cabling infrastructure, simplifying the overall device structure while maintaining reliable signal transmission from multiple distal sensors.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the signal transmission function from the traditional separate cabling system and integrates it into the braid wire structure. This removes the need for additional cabling that would constrain the catheter lumen and increase probe diameter.
Data Source
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AI summary
A medical probe includes an insertion tube for insertion into a patient's body, and multiple arms that are attached to a distal end of the insertion tube. Each arm includes a braid of wires that traverse the arm. Multiple electrodes are coupled to the arms and electrically connected to respective selected wires of the braid. The electrodes are configured to exchange signals over the wires with a system external to the patient body.