Deflectable Insertion Tube With Articulated Sections
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Solution Overview
Problem
The anatomy of the sinus makes it challenging to insert tools, such as cameras or balloon catheters, into the correct location with the correct orientation, and external forces from the nostril complicate the insertion process.
Innovation Solution
A flexible insertion tube with a plurality of articulated sections and a ribbon running through its lumen, allowing the distal portion to be flexed using a control handle, enabling precise configuration and tool passage into the sinus.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a rigid tube is used for insertion, then structural stability is maintained, but the ability to navigate complex sinus anatomy and reach correct locations is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The tube is divided into multiple articulated sections that can move relative to each other, allowing the distal portion to flex and adapt to the sinus anatomy while the proximal portion remains stable for control
Solution Approach 2:
Different portions of the tube have different properties: the distal portion is articulated and flexible to navigate anatomy, while the proximal portion is more rigid for structural stability and control
2Adaptability or versatility
If the tube is made flexible to navigate anatomy, then adaptability to sinus structure is improved, but control precision and stability during insertion are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The articulated sections allow controlled flexibility where needed while maintaining rigidity in control portions, enabling precise manipulation through the control handle
Solution Approach 2:
The ribbon acts as an intermediary element that transmits control forces from the control handle to the articulated sections, enabling precise control of the flexible distal portion
3Manufacturing precision
If the distal portion is made deflectable to reach correct locations, then insertion accuracy is improved, but the complexity of the tube structure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The tube is segmented into articulated sections with simple hinge-like connections, achieving deflection capability through modular design rather than complex continuous curvature mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The ribbon provides a simple yet effective mechanism for controlling the articulated sections, using a thin flexible element to transmit control forces through the tube 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
Facilitates accurate and controlled insertion of medical tools into the sinus by allowing flexible adjustment of the tube's configuration, overcoming anatomical challenges and external forces.
Implementation Method 1
A flexible insertion tube with a plurality of articulated sections and a ribbon running through its lumen, allowing the distal portion to be flexed using a control handle
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatus described herein includes a tube, shaped to define a tube lumen and including a distal portion that has a plurality of articulated sections. The apparatus further includes a ribbon that passes longitudinally through the tube lumen and is connected to a distalmost one of the articulated sections, and a control handle disposed at a proximal end of the tube, the control handle being configured to flex the distal portion of the tube by pulling the ribbon. Other embodiments are also described.