Catheter Handle Auto-Locking Mechanism for Position Maintenance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing catheter actuators provide limited steering travel and require manual maintenance to hold the distal end in position, which can be inadequate for medical procedures and inconvenient for operators.
Innovation Solution
A catheter actuation handle with an auto-locking mechanism that includes a grip portion, actuator, and auto-locking mechanism, which automatically holds the deflected distal end in place without operator input, using components like washers, bushings, screws, and tensioning members to maintain the desired position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual actuation is used to control catheter distal end position, then operator control is direct and responsive, but operator workload increases and position maintenance becomes inconvenient
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator incorporates an auto-locking mechanism that automatically maintains the distal end position without requiring continuous manual input. Once the operator positions the distal end using the actuator, the locking mechanism engages to hold the position, allowing the operator to perform other tasks without constantly monitoring or adjusting the actuator.
2Ease of operation
If actuator size is limited for thumb and index finger manipulation, then handle ergonomics are improved, but steering travel range becomes inadequate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a locking mechanism that adds a temporal dimension to the actuation system. Instead of requiring continuous manual pressure in the same spatial dimension, the system locks the actuator at desired positions, effectively extending the functional range through time-based position holding rather than spatial expansion.
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 auto-locking mechanism allows for increased steering travel and maintains the distal end position without manual intervention, enhancing operational efficiency and reducing operator workload during medical procedures.
Implementation Method 1
a tensioning member, such as a spring or a belleville washer, that applies a force to the actuator to return the actuator to a neutral position
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention is a catheter actuation handle for deflecting a distal end of a tubular catheter body, the handle including an auto-locking mechanism. The handle comprises upper and lower grip portions, an actuator, and an auto-locking mechanism. The auto-locking mechanism is adapted to hold a deflected distal end of the catheter in place without input from the operator. When the distal end of the catheter is deflected from its zero position, it typically will seek a return to its zero position, and as a result exerts a force on the actuator. The auto-locking mechanism acts by providing a second force that resists this force from the distal end and holds the distal end in place. As a result, the operator does not need to maintain contact with the buttons to maintain the distal end 18 in a set position once placed there by actuating the actuator.