Handle Slack Pocket Layout for Tangle-Free Medical System Lines
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Solution Overview
Problem
Medical device delivery systems with multiple actuators face complexity, require larger handles and thicker catheters, and are prone to tangling and malfunction due to multiple system lines.
Innovation Solution
A slack storage system with series of slack pockets that isolate slack loops, allowing tensioned system lines to dispense slack without tangling, using retainers like adhesives or mechanical fasteners to hold loops in place.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple system lines are added to control multiple actuators, then proper procedural timing and operation sequence are improved, but device complexity increases and risk of tangling increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system line is divided into multiple segments with slack pockets created at regular intervals along its length. Each slack pocket acts as an independent compartment that isolates specific portions of the system line, preventing them from tangling with each other while allowing the line to be tensioned for actuator control.
Solution Approach 2:
Slack pockets serve as intermediary structures between the system line and the tensioning mechanism. These pockets provide a designated storage space for excess line length, mediating between the need for line tension to actuate components and the need to prevent tangling of multiple line segments.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple system lines are added to control multiple actuators, then proper procedural timing and operation sequence are improved, but risk of malfunction from tangling and knotting increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system line is divided into multiple segments with slack pockets created at regular intervals along its length. Each slack pocket acts as an independent compartment that isolates specific portions of the system line, preventing them from tangling with each other while allowing the line to be tensioned for actuator control.
Solution Approach 2:
Slack pockets are pre-formed along the system line before deployment, creating predetermined storage compartments that prepare the line to receive and hold excess length without causing tangling during the actuation sequence.
3Adaptability or versatility
If larger handles and thicker catheters are used to accommodate additional system lines, then multiple actuators can be controlled, but device complexity and profile increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple slack pockets are nested within the existing catheter and handle structure, utilizing available internal space to store excess system line without requiring the catheter to be thicker or the handle to be larger. The pockets are arranged to fit within the existing device geometry.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of increasing the radial dimension (thickness) of the catheter or handle to accommodate more system lines, the solution utilizes the longitudinal dimension by creating multiple discrete slack pockets along the length of the system line, allowing multiple actuators to be controlled without increasing the overall device profile.
Data Source
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AI summary
According to an example of the present disclosure, an apparatus to store slack in a system line for a medical device is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a plurality of slack pockets arranged in series. The system line is configured to form a slack loop into each slack pocket, the plurality of slack pockets isolating the slack loops from each other. The plurality of slack pockets are configured such that when tension is applied to the system line, slack is dispensed by each slack loop straightening from each slack pocket without tangling with another one of the slack loops.