Interventional Guidewire Torque Device Perpendicular Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current guidewire torque devices require excessive manipulation and force parallel to the wire axis, diverting attention and increasing the risk of unwanted movement during medical procedures, necessitating improved control mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A guidewire assembly with a housing, actuator, clamp, and return spring system that allows for single-handed, blind operation with perpendicular force application, enabling secure and precise control of the guidewire without diverting attention from the procedure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If current torque devices are used to control the guidewire, then the guidewire can be positioned, but excessive manipulation and force parallel to the wire axis are required, diverting attention and increasing the risk of unwanted movement
Solution Approach 1:
The torque device changes the direction of applied force from parallel to the guidewire axis to perpendicular to the guidewire axis. The actuator applies compression force perpendicular to the guidewire, which is then converted by the clamp mechanism into rotational torque around the guidewire axis, eliminating the need for axial manipulation
Solution Approach 2:
The clamp acts as an intermediary mechanism that converts the perpendicular compression force from the actuator into rotational torque. The clamp's asymmetric geometry and engagement with the guidewire create a mechanical advantage that transforms linear perpendicular force into rotational motion around the guidewire axis
2Measurement precision
If current torque devices are used, then the guidewire can be positioned, but release of the secure hand position is required to adjust positioning, which could result in unexpected advancement or retraction
Solution Approach 1:
The device enables self-adjustment through the actuator mechanism. The operator can reposition the torque device by simply applying perpendicular force to the actuator with the same hand that is holding the guidewire, without needing to release the guidewire or use the other hand, thus maintaining continuous secure positioning
Solution Approach 2:
The device transitions from a static clamped position to a dynamic adjustable position through the actuator mechanism. The spring-loaded clamp allows for easy engagement and disengagement, enabling the operator to dynamically adjust the torque device position along the guidewire while maintaining secure hold during each positioning phase
3Ease of operation
If excessive force parallel to the guidewire axis is applied, then the torque device can manipulate the guidewire, but the risk of unwanted movement and complications increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device applies force in a different dimension (perpendicular to the guidewire axis) rather than parallel to it. This dimensional change eliminates the harmful axial forces that cause unwanted advancement or retraction of the guidewire in the patient, while still achieving effective torque control through the perpendicular compression-to-rotation conversion mechanism
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 precise, single-handed control of the guidewire with reduced risk of unintended movement, allowing continuous secure positioning and repositioning without the need for visual cues or additional hands.
Implementation Method 1
a return spring that supplies pressure to uncouple the clamp from the wire
Implementation Method 2
a compression mechanism that is actuated by a finger in a direction substantially perpendicular to an axis of the guidewire
Data Source
AI summary
An interventional guidewire assembly with improved guidewire control includes a guidewire and a housing having a first opening that accommodates the guidewire and a second opening. The assembly further includes an actuator that passes through the second opening that is actuated by a finger in a direction substantially perpendicular to an axis of the guidewire. The assembly further includes a clamp operably coupled to the actuator that compresses the guidewire to couple the guidewire to the housing when pressure is applied to the actuator. The assembly further includes a return spring that supplies pressure to remove the clamp from the guidewire.