Methods for securing strand ends and the resulting devices

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing self-expanding stents face challenges in securely fastening the ends of strands, particularly when made from nickel-titanium wires, as existing methods do not effectively manage strand alignment and welding, leading to potential instability and reduced efficacy in anatomical structures.

Innovation Solution

The use of coupling structures that are not part of the strands, specifically designed to be welded to the ends of nickel-titanium strands, ensuring alignment and stability through laser welding, with the number and placement of these structures corresponding to the number of strands, and positioned either axially aligned or offset around the circumference, to create a secure and uniform stent configuration.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If existing methods are used to fasten strand ends in self-expanding stents, then the device can be manufactured, but the strand alignment and welding are ineffective leading to instability

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestrand fastening stabilityVSAvoidstrand alignment precision

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a coupling structure as an intermediary component that mediates between the strand ends. This coupling structure includes a coupling region with internal threading that receives and secures the strand ends, providing a reliable fastening mechanism that overcomes the limitations of direct welding methods.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The invention segments the fastening function into distinct components: the strand ends, the coupling structure, and the coupling region. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently, with the coupling structure specifically designed to provide precise alignment and secure fastening of the strand ends.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Reliability

If coupling structures are added to secure strand ends, then stability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestent end stabilityVSAvoidnumber of components

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The coupling structure is designed to be integrated with the strand construction, merging the fastening function into the existing device architecture. The coupling region is formed as part of the strand structure itself, reducing the need for entirely separate components while still providing enhanced stability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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

This approach enhances the stability and uniformity of the stent ends, ensuring secure fastening and maintaining structural integrity, even when subjected to axial compression, thereby improving the performance and reliability of the stent within anatomical structures.

Implementation Method 1

securing the coupling structure to the first strand end portion by laser welding; securing the coupling structure to the second strand end portion by laser welding

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectLaser welding: Laser Beam Welding

Data Source

PatentEP3150177B1Methods for securing strand ends and the resulting devices

Publication Date: 2021.06.02 IDEV TECHNOLOGIES INC

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AI summary

Methods for securing strand ends of devices configured for insertion into an anatomical structure, and the resulting devices.