Catheter Control Mechanism for Precise Bend Angle Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current deflectable catheters lack precise control over the bend angle of their distal portions, which is crucial for accurately positioning the catheter tip in anatomical structures during medical procedures.
Innovation Solution
A catheter assembly with a control mechanism that converts rotational motion into precise linear motion, utilizing a linear actuation mechanism with a threaded rotator and thread follower to control the bend angle of the deflectable distal portion, allowing for meticulous adjustment of the catheter tip's curvature.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a simple push-pull mechanism is used to deflect the catheter tip, then the device is easy to operate, but the bend angle cannot be precisely controlled
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the simple push-pull mechanical mechanism with a robotic control system that uses motors, sensors, and control algorithms to achieve precise bend angle control. The robotic system can accurately position the catheter tip by controlling the deflection of pull wires through electronic actuation rather than direct manual manipulation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the control parameter from simple linear displacement in push-pull mechanisms to multi-dimensional robotic joint positions and pull wire tensions. This allows for precise control of the bend angle by adjusting multiple parameters simultaneously, enabling accurate positioning of the catheter tip in three-dimensional space.
2Device complexity
If manual push-pull control is used, then the control mechanism is simple, but the ability to finely adjust the bend angle is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes manual mechanical control with an automated robotic system that uses electronic actuators, sensors, and control software. This replacement enables fine adjustment of the bend angle through precise electronic control of pull wire tensions, achieving manufacturing-level precision in catheter tip positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The robotic control system incorporates sensors that provide real-time feedback on the catheter tip position and orientation. This feedback loop allows the control system to make continuous fine adjustments to achieve the desired bend angle with high precision, overcoming the limitations of simple manual control mechanisms.
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
Enables precise and controlled deflection of the catheter tip, improving the ability of clinicians to navigate and position the catheter accurately within the body, enhancing the effectiveness of medical procedures.
Implementation Method 1
The linear actuation mechanism converts a rotation motion of the control mechanism to a precise linear motion
Data Source
AI summary
A catheter assembly comprises a catheter, a handle, disposed at a proximal part of the catheter, a pull wire, extending from a distal part of the catheter, proximally through the catheter to the handle, and a control handle assembly, disposed at the handle, and configured to be operated: (i) in a gross-tensioning manner that grossly adjusts tension on the pull wire, and (ii) in a fine-tensioning manner that finely adjusts the tension on the pull wire. Other embodiments are also described.