Interference-Fit Connector Blocks for Implantable Pulse Generator Headers

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Solution Overview

Problem

Implantable medical systems face challenges in adapting to various industry standards for connector ports, requiring multiple pre-made subassemblies and leading to increased complexity and potential adulterant entry into the connector bore.

Innovation Solution

A connector port subassembly featuring a core with interference-fitting connector blocks and seal rings that adapt to different standards, including a dual-material seal ring design with high and low durometer components to ensure secure fit and prevent adulterant entry through windows, allowing for customizable configurations within a single header.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple pre-made connector port subassemblies are used to comply with various industry standards, then adaptability to different standards is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveadaptability to industry standardsVSAvoidcomplexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The connector port subassembly is designed with a universal core subassembly that can accommodate multiple industry standards (IS-1, IS4, DF4) through interchangeable connector blocks. This single subassembly design serves multiple functions by supporting different connector configurations without requiring separate pre-made subassemblies for each standard, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining adaptability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The connector port subassembly is divided into modular components: a core subassembly, connector blocks, and seal rings. The connector blocks can be selectively assembled into the core subassembly to match different industry standards. This segmentation allows flexibility in configuration while simplifying the overall system by using a common core structure across all standards.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple pre-made connector port subassemblies are used to comply with various industry standards, then adaptability to different standards is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveadaptability to industry standardsVSAvoidmanufacturing complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The core subassembly serves as a universal base that can be used across all industry standards, reducing the number of unique parts that need to be manufactured. Only the connector blocks vary by standard, simplifying the manufacturing process by maintaining a common production line for the core component while allowing for standardized variations in the connector blocks.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

By segmenting the connector port subassembly into a standardized core and variable connector blocks, the manufacturing process is simplified. The core subassembly can be mass-produced once and reused, while only the connector blocks need to be manufactured in different configurations, reducing overall manufacturing complexity compared to producing entirely separate subassemblies for each standard.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

3Reliability

If windows are provided in the core subassembly for electrical interface, then electrical connectivity is improved, but vulnerability to adulterant entry increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveelectrical connectivityVSAvoidadulterant entry

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

Seal rings are introduced as intermediary components that fit within the connector bore and seal around the windows. These seal rings act as a barrier between the electrical interface (which requires open windows for connectivity) and the external environment (which could introduce adulterants). The seal rings maintain electrical connectivity through the windows while preventing contaminant entry, thus resolving the contradiction between reliability and protection against harmful factors.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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 solution reduces the number of required connector port subassemblies, enhances adaptability to multiple industry standards, and effectively prevents contaminant entry, thereby simplifying manufacturing and ensuring reliable connections.

Implementation Method 1

one or more seal rings configured to interference fit within the connector bore and eliminate adulterant entry into the connector bore through the one or more windows

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectInterference fit: Mechanical Fastener

Implementation Method 2

one or more connector blocks configured to interference fit within the connector bore

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectInterference fit: Mechanical Fastener

Data Source

PatentUS11918821B2Connector for use in overmolded header of implantable pulse generator

Publication Date: 2024.03.05 CARDIAC PACEMAKERS INC

AI summary

Various aspects of the present disclosure are directed toward apparatuses, systems, and methods that may include a connector port subassembly. The connector port subassembly may include one or more connector blocks configured to interference fit within a connector bore, one or more windows through the core subassembly to the one or more connector blocks, and one or more seal rings configured to interference fit within the connector bore and eliminate adulterant entry into the connector bore through the one or more windows.