Inflator with Varying Mechanical Advantage for Balloon Dilation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dilation systems for anatomical passageways lack easy control over balloon inflation and deflation, particularly for single-operator procedures, and require improved visualization techniques for precise balloon positioning.
Innovation Solution
A dilation catheter system with an inflator that allows for controlled inflation and deflation of a balloon using a plunger and barrel mechanism, combined with an illuminating guidewire for external visualization of the balloon's position within the anatomical passageway.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a balloon dilation system is used for anatomical passageways, then the passageway can be dilated effectively, but the control over balloon inflation and deflation becomes difficult for single-operator procedures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the inflation and deflation functions into a single integrated syringe mechanism. The same syringe that inflates the balloon by injecting fluid also deflates it by withdrawing fluid, eliminating the need for separate control mechanisms and making the system operable by a single operator.
Solution Approach 2:
The syringe mechanism serves multiple functions: it controls both inflation and deflation of the balloon, provides visualization through the transparent barrel, and allows for precise control of fluid volume. This multi-functionality reduces the overall complexity of the device while maintaining ease of operation.
2Measurement precision
If traditional balloon positioning methods are used, then the procedure can be performed, but visualization of the balloon's position within the anatomical passageway is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a transparent or translucent balloon material that allows light to pass through, enabling visualization of the balloon's position and inflation status. The transparent syringe barrel also allows visual monitoring of fluid volume and balloon filling progress, improving measurement precision without adding complex detection systems.
3Manufacturing precision
If precise balloon positioning is required, then the dilation accuracy improves, but the procedure time increases due to difficulty in visualizing and controlling balloon placement
Solution Approach 1:
The transparent syringe barrel provides real-time visual feedback on the volume of fluid being injected into the balloon, allowing the operator to precisely control balloon inflation without trial and error. This immediate feedback mechanism enables accurate positioning and sizing while maintaining efficient procedure timing.
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 precise and controlled dilation of anatomical passageways with improved visualization, facilitating single-operator procedures and enhancing the accuracy of balloon placement and expansion.
Implementation Method 1
a syringe barrel and plunger mechanism, with the syringe barrel being transparent or translucent to enable visualization of the position of the plunger within the syringe barrel
Implementation Method 2
the syringe barrel being transparent or translucent to enable visualization of the position of the plunger within the syringe barrel
Implementation Method 3
an illuminating guidewire for external visualization of the balloon's position within the anatomical passageway
Data Source
AI summary
An inflator comprises a body, a first drive member, and a second drive member. The body defines a reservoir that is configured to hold fluid and includes an outlet. The first drive member is operable to move through the reservoir to drive fluid from the reservoir through the outlet. The second drive member is engaged with the first drive member. The second drive member is movable relative to the body through a first range of motion to actuate the first drive member to drive fluid through the outlet at a first rate. The second drive member is movable relative to the body through a second range of motion following the first range of motion. The first drive member is configured to either drive fluid through the outlet at a second rate or not drive fluid through the outlet as the second drive member moves through the second range of motion.