Junction Box Clip Assembly for Sterile Catheter Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current mechanical circulatory support devices face challenges in maintaining the position of the catheter and blood pump within the sterile field, as the junction box can cause movement and dislodgment, increasing patient risk and procedural complexity.
Innovation Solution
A percutaneous circulatory support device with a clip assembly secured to the junction box, allowing for secure attachment to a bed sheet, drape, or bed rail, and a flexible clip design to manage cords and catheters, preventing dislodgment and maintaining sterility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a junction box is used to contain electrical connections and components, then the device functionality is improved, but the catheter and blood pump may move or dislodge from the sterile field
Solution Approach 1:
The junction box is divided into two functional segments: a fixed portion attached to the catheter shaft and a movable clip assembly that can be independently positioned and secured to the sterile field. This segmentation allows the junction box to maintain electrical functionality while the clip assembly provides stable positioning without interfering with catheter navigation.
Solution Approach 2:
The clip assembly acts as an intermediary between the junction box and the sterile field environment. It provides the attachment function to secure the junction box to drapes, sheets, or other sterile field elements, while the catheter shaft maintains its independent navigation capability. This intermediary resolves the conflict between needing a fixed junction box for functionality and allowing catheter movement for positioning.
2Reliability
If the junction box is secured firmly to prevent movement, then position stability is improved, but cords may fall out of the sterile field
Solution Approach 1:
The clip assembly is designed with dynamic characteristics, allowing it to be easily opened and closed to accommodate cord insertion and removal. The clip can be firmly secured to prevent junction box movement, yet operators can quickly access and manage cords by opening the clip. This dynamic design resolves the contradiction between firm securing for stability and easy access for cord management.
3Reliability
If a clip assembly is added to secure the junction box, then position stability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The clip assembly utilizes a flexible, thin-walled structure that can be formed from a single piece of material or simple components. This flexible design provides the necessary securing function while minimizing structural complexity. The clip can be easily manufactured and attached to the junction box without requiring complex mechanisms or multiple parts.
Data Source
AI summary
Mechanical circulatory support devices with cord management systems are disclosed. An example percutaneous circulatory support device comprises a catheter including an elongate shaft and a percutaneous blood pump positioned at a distal end of the elongate shaft. A junction box is secured to the elongate shaft proximal of the percutaneous blood pump, and a clip assembly is disposed on an outer surface of the junction box.