Endoprosthesis Delivery System Adjustable Stop Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing endoprosthesis delivery systems face challenges in controlling the deployment of medical devices like stents within body lumens due to slack in the delivery system, which affects precision and control during placement.
Innovation Solution
The system incorporates an adjustable stop mechanism with a shaft and moveable members, including a threaded surface and nut configuration, to manage slack in the delivery wire, ensuring precise movement and control of the outer member during stent deployment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If slack is present in the delivery wire, then the delivery system is easier to operate with less tension requirements, but precision and control during stent deployment are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs a dynamic adjustable stop mechanism that can be positioned at different locations along the delivery wire. The stop is movable between a first position (when slack is present) and a second position (when tension is applied), allowing the system to adapt to different operational phases. This dynamic adjustment resolves the contradiction by providing ease of operation during insertion with the stop in the first position, and precision during deployment when the stop is moved to the second position.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the physical state of the delivery wire from a slack state to a tensioned state during the procedure. By applying force to the proximal end of the delivery wire, the system transitions from a low-tension configuration (easy operation) to a high-tension configuration (precise control), thereby resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and precision through parameter change.
2Manufacturing precision
If the delivery wire is tensioned to eliminate slack, then precision and control during stent deployment are improved, but the force required to operate the system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustable stop mechanism dynamically adjusts the tension requirement based on the operational phase. During insertion, the stop is positioned to allow minimal tension (first position). During deployment, the stop is moved to a second position that eliminates slack and provides precise control. This dynamic positioning resolves the contradiction by minimizing force requirements when needed and providing precision when needed, rather than requiring high force continuously.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary action by positioning the adjustable stop at the first position before insertion, allowing the delivery wire to be inserted with minimal tension. Once the distal end reaches the target location, the stop is moved to the second position to eliminate slack before deployment begins. This preliminary positioning resolves the contradiction by preparing the system for low-force insertion first, then transitioning to high-precision deployment mode.
3Ease of operation
If an adjustable stop mechanism is added to manage slack, then control during deployment is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustable stop mechanism is nested within the existing delivery system structure. The stop is positioned along the delivery wire and can be moved between positions using a simple mechanism that integrates with the proximal end structure. This nesting approach resolves the contradiction by adding the necessary control functionality without significantly increasing overall device complexity, as the stop mechanism shares space and structural elements with the existing delivery system components.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustable stop acts as an intermediary element between the proximal end (operator's hand) and the distal end (stent deployment site). It mediates the transmission of force and position information along the delivery wire, converting simple proximal movements into precise distal positioning. This intermediary function resolves the contradiction by providing enhanced control without requiring complex mechanisms at the distal end, as the stop simplifies the force transmission path.
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 solution enhances user control and precision in placing medical endoprostheses by eliminating or reducing slack, allowing for more accurate positioning of stents within body lumens.
Implementation Method 1
The shaft has a threaded surface, and the first member (e.g., a nut) is moveable in the proximal direction along the threads of the outer surface of the shaft
Data Source
AI summary
Endoprothesis delivery systems and methods for making an using the same. An example medical endoprosthesis delivery system may include an inner member. An outer member may at least partially surround the inner member. The inner member and the outer member may be configured so that an implantable medical endoprosthesis can be disposed therebetween. A coupling device may be coupled to a portion of the outer member so that, when there is substantially no slack in the coupling device, as the coupling device moves in a proximal direction the portion of the outer member moves in the proximal direction. An adjustable stop may be coupled to the coupling device so that, when there is slack in the coupling device, as the adjustable stop is moved in the proximal direction, the amount of slack in the coupling device can be reduced.