Elastomeric Construct Dynamic Strain Profile Determination
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for determining the dynamic strain profile of elastomeric constructs, such as heart cuffs, are challenging due to the need for in vivo testing, which is impractical and can be confounded by tissue interaction.
Innovation Solution
A method for determining the proper characteristics of an elastomeric construct in an unloaded condition, allowing for the selection of best materials and design to match the dynamic strain characteristics needed for cardiac applications, including a heart cuff system that can be customized for specific heart conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If in vivo testing is used to determine dynamic strain profile of elastomeric constructs, then measurement accuracy can be improved, but device complexity and difficulty of testing increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a physical model that copies the essential mechanical properties and geometry of the human heart, allowing strain profile measurements to be performed on the model rather than requiring complex in vivo testing. This model replicates the deformation characteristics of actual cardiac tissue under various loading conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The physical model serves as an intermediary between the elastomeric construct and actual human tissue. It allows the construct to be tested in a controlled environment that mimics in vivo conditions without requiring direct implantation or complex in vivo measurement systems.
2Loss of information
If in vivo testing is performed, then real tissue interaction data can be obtained, but tissue trauma and reliability issues arise
Solution Approach 1:
The physical model replicates the mechanical response of cardiac tissue without using actual biological tissue. This allows researchers to gather comprehensive data on tissue-construct interactions, strain distribution, and force transfer characteristics while completely avoiding tissue trauma and ethical concerns associated with animal or human testing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent converts the limitation of not having real tissue into a benefit by creating a controlled physical model that eliminates tissue trauma while still providing sufficient mechanical data for construct development and optimization.
3Reliability
If elastomeric construct is designed to provide mechanical support to failing heart, then pump function can be improved, but risk of tissue trauma increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by thoroughly testing and optimizing the elastomeric construct's strain profile on physical models before actual implantation. This allows the construct to be pre-adjusted to match the specific mechanical characteristics of the patient's heart, ensuring optimal support while minimizing the risk of tissue trauma during and after implantation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes by adjusting the elastomeric material properties, construct geometry, and inflation pressures based on data obtained from physical model testing. These parameters are optimized to provide the necessary mechanical support for heart pump function while keeping stresses on the tissue within safe limits.
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 the creation of an ideal cardiac construct with dynamic strain characteristics that optimize mechanical forces applied to the heart, improving pump function while avoiding tissue trauma, and facilitating recovery of myocardial contractile function.
Implementation Method 1
the elastomeric construct has its own dynamic strain profile... the construct will react with a dynamic strain profile that compensates for the deficiencies in the actual dynamic strain profile
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for determining the proper dynamic strain profile of an elastomeric construct. The strain characteristics of a deficient heart are determined and compared to the normal strain characteristics of a healthy heart. A construct having elastomeric elements is provided that can expand along multiple axes. In an unloaded condition remote from the deficient heart, the elastomeric elements are pressurized to determine the pressure differential being experienced. Furthermore, optimal strain characteristics are calculated along a first axis and a second axis as a function of the pressure differential. The first optimal strain characteristic and the second optimal strain characteristic are used to estimate the dynamic strain characteristics that will be applied to the heart. Using an automated drive, the dynamic strain characteristics are compared to the optimal strain characteristics required by the heart to determine if the construct is proper.


