Implantable Medical Device Electrode Snap-Fit Isolation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Implantable medical devices (IMDs) with fixation mechanisms attached directly to the body can experience stress at the attachment point, leading to inaccurate or imprecise sensor measurements due to mechanical interference.
Innovation Solution
The IMD design includes a conductive elongated body with an electrode electrically isolated by an insulator, using snap-fit connections to secure the electrode and insulator, which allows for a strong mechanical connection while avoiding direct attachment of the fixation mechanism to the body, thus reducing stress and improving measurement accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the fixation mechanism is attached directly to the body of the IMD, then the mechanical connection is strong and secure, but mechanical stress at the attachment point causes inaccurate or imprecise sensor measurements
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into separate functional components: the fixation mechanism is attached to the battery assembly rather than directly to the body housing, creating distinct stress isolation zones. This segmentation allows the fixation mechanism to provide strong mechanical anchoring while preventing stress transmission to the sensor-containing body, thereby resolving the contradiction between mechanical strength and measurement precision.
2Reliability
If the electrode is electrically isolated from the conductive body, then electrical isolation is achieved, but additional insulator components increase device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
An insulator component is introduced as an intermediary element between the conductive body housing and the electrode assembly. This insulator provides reliable electrical isolation while serving multiple functions including mechanical support and stress distribution. The insulator acts as a mediator that enables electrical isolation without significantly increasing overall device complexity, as it integrates with existing structural elements.
Data Source
AI summary
An implantable medical device (IMD) includes an electrode that forms a first snap-fit attachment area and an insulator that forms a through-hole, a second snap-fit attachment area and a third snap-fit attachment area. The second snap-fit attachment area mates with the first snap-fit attachment area of the electrode. The IMD further includes a body including an elongated conductive housing and a feedthrough wire extending therefrom. The body forms a fourth snap-fit attachment area on one end that mates with the third snap-fit attachment area of the insulator such that the feedthrough wire extends through the through-hole of the insulator. The housing encloses at least one of a battery, a sensor, and an electronic circuit. The insulator functions to electrically isolate the electrode from the housing of the body.