Insertion Tool for Implantable Lead Connector

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Solution Overview

Problem

Connecting implantable leads to medical devices can be challenging due to frictional forces between terminal connectors and connector ports, which may damage internal components and hinder proper system functioning.

Innovation Solution

An insertion tool with a cylindrical body, potentially made of different materials with varying axial strength, is used to securely hold the lead and apply longitudinal force to overcome resistance, allowing the connector to be plugged into the medical device's port, and then split or peel off for removal, avoiding damage to the lead.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Force

If longitudinal force is applied directly to the lead to overcome frictional resistance during connection, then the connector can be inserted into the connection port, but internal components of the lead may be damaged

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelongitudinal forceVSAvoiddamage to internal components

Core Design Contradiction:

ForceVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The insertion tool acts as an intermediary device between the operator and the lead. It has a lumen that receives the lead and allows application of longitudinal force to the connector without directly manipulating the lead itself. This mediator structure protects the lead's internal components from damage while still enabling the necessary force to overcome frictional resistance during connection.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Strength

If the insertion tool is made of strong material to withstand connection forces, then it can effectively insert the connector, but the tool becomes difficult to remove from the lead

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaxial strengthVSAvoidremoval of insertion tool

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The insertion tool incorporates materials with different axial strengths in different regions or layers. The outer structure may be made of stronger material to withstand connection forces, while inner layers or specific sections use materials with lower axial strength that allow the tool to be easily removed from the lead after insertion is complete. This local variation in material properties resolves the contradiction between needing strength for insertion and ease of removal afterward.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

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

This method facilitates secure and damage-free connection of implantable leads to medical devices, ensuring proper functioning by managing frictional forces and allowing for easy removal of the insertion tool without damaging the leads.

Implementation Method 1

frictional forces between terminal connectors and connector ports

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Implementation Method 2

the insertion tool frictionally engages the lead

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Data Source

PatentUS10456587B2Terminal connector insertion tool aid

Publication Date: 2019.10.29 CARDIAC PACEMAKERS INC

AI summary

Aspects of the present disclosure are directed toward methods, systems, and apparatuses that include an insertion tool configured to removeably secure to an implantable lead. The implantable lead may be connected to an implantable medical device by applying longitudinal force to the insertion tool. The insertion tool may subsequently be removed.