Catheter Deflection Detection and Drip Chamber Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrophysiology catheters face challenges in assessing deflection occurrence and direction, and there is a risk of air introduction due to depleted irrigation fluid reservoirs, which can be fatal.
Innovation Solution
A guiding sheath assembly with bi-directional puller wires and deflection sensors, including piezoelectric pressure sensors, to detect deflection and provide visual or audio cues, and a drip chamber that automatically seals when empty.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If deflection control is implemented using puller wires and shuttles, then the shaft can be deflected to various directions, but it becomes difficult to assess the occurrence and degree of deflection
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback by placing sensors (such as strain gauges or position sensors) on the puller wires and shuttles to detect deflection occurrence and degree. This feedback is transmitted to the control system, which then provides real-time information to the operator about the shaft's deflection state, enabling precise assessment and control of catheter position.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces purely mechanical deflection control with an integrated sensor-based detection system. Instead of relying solely on mechanical feedback from the operator, electronic sensors detect puller wire tension and shuttle position, converting mechanical states into electrical signals for precise measurement and display of deflection parameters.
2Reliability
If irrigation fluid is delivered from a remote IV bag through lumened tubing, then cooling and lesion depth are improved, but air can enter the tubing when the reservoir empties causing fatal air embolism
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by placing a sensor in the irrigation tubing that detects when the IV bag reservoir becomes empty or when air enters the fluid line. The system proactively alerts the operator before air can reach the patient, allowing preventive action to be taken such as replacing the IV bag or pausing irrigation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses feedback mechanisms where sensors continuously monitor the irrigation fluid reservoir level and detect air bubbles in the tubing. This real-time feedback is transmitted to the control system and displayed to the operator, enabling continuous monitoring and immediate response to prevent air embolism while maintaining effective irrigation cooling.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple shuttles and puller wires are used for bi-directional deflection control, then shaft maneuverability is enhanced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing the control system to handle multiple puller wires and shuttles through a single integrated control mechanism. The control handle incorporates a universal interface that can manage bi-directional deflection using coordinated movement of multiple shuttles, reducing the operational complexity despite the increased number of mechanical components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges multiple control functions into an integrated control system where multiple shuttles and puller wires are coordinated through a unified control mechanism. The sensors and control electronics are combined into a single system that processes information from all components simultaneously, simplifying the user interface and control logic despite the complex mechanical structure.
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 control and indication of deflection direction, preventing air introduction by sealing the drip chamber, enhancing safety and maneuverability during procedures.
Implementation Method 1
The first deflection sensor includes a piezoelectric pressure sensor
Data Source
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AI summary
A guiding sheath assembly has an elongated shaft, and a control handle with a control knob and a shuttle configured for translation in response to manipulation of the control knob. The assembly includes a puller wire extending along the shaft and responsive to translation of the shuttle to deflect the shaft. The puller wire has a stop at its proximal end wherein a deflection sensor is affixed to stop subject to compression between to generate a signal in response to distortion between the first shuttle and the first stop. A catheter having a control handle and a control knob for manipulation of a deflection puller wire whose proximal end is affixed to a stop anchored in the control handle housing includes a strain gauge affixed to the stop configured to detect deformation resulting from actuation of the puller wire in deflecting the catheter shaft. A drip chamber.