Actuatable Lead Connector With Biased Tabs for One-Handed Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing operating room cable assemblies for implantable electrical stimulation systems are cumbersome and require two hands to operate, making it difficult for surgical personnel to load and lock leads, which can lead to inefficiencies during procedures.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates a lead connector with a simpler locking-unlocking mechanism featuring a first and second biased tab, allowing for single-handed operation, where the tabs are configured to move between unlock and lock positions to securely engage and disengage leads within the connector.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a traditional lead connector mechanism is used, then the lead can be securely retained, but the connector requires two hands to operate and is cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the locking function from a complex multi-component mechanism and consolidates it into a single integrated tab element. The tab incorporates both the locking engagement feature and the actuation mechanism, eliminating the need for separate locking components and reducing overall device complexity while maintaining secure lead retention.
Solution Approach 2:
The tab is designed to perform multiple functions: it provides lateral engagement with the lead, axial retention through friction, and acts as the actuation lever for loading and unloading. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate components for each function, allowing single-handed operation while maintaining secure retention.
2Reliability
If a secure locking mechanism is implemented, then the lead is firmly retained, but the operation becomes more difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The tab is pre-configured in a locked position that automatically engages with the lead upon insertion. The lateral engagement feature is positioned to make immediate contact with the lead, providing secure retention without requiring additional manual intervention. The spring mechanism is pre-loaded to maintain constant retention force throughout the procedure.
Solution Approach 2:
The tab incorporates a spring mechanism that provides dynamic adjustment of retention force. The spring maintains constant pressure on the lead throughout insertion and operation, adapting to variations in lead position and orientation. This dynamic retention system ensures reliable lead security while requiring minimal operational effort from the user.
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 design enhances operational efficiency by allowing for quicker and easier loading and locking of leads, reducing procedural time and minimizing the risk of errors during surgical implantations of electrical stimulation systems.
Implementation Method 1
The lead connector includes at least one spring disposed between the first biased tab and the housing and configured to bias the first biased tab to the lock position
Data Source
AI summary
An operating-room cable-assembly for an electrical-stimulation system includes a lead connector with a lead passageway defined in a housing. Contacts disposed in the housing engage terminals of a lead when the lead is operationally-inserted into the lead passageway. A first biased tab is disposed in a first tab lumen defined in the housing. The first biased tab has a first end exposed to an outer surface of the housing and an opposing second end exposed to the lead passageway. The first biased tab moves to an unlock position and is biased to return to a lock position. When in the lock position, the first biased tab is biased to exert a force against an inserted lead sufficient to resist axial movement of the lead relative to the lead connector.