Mirror-Based Visualization for Medical Device Loading
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The challenge in loading transcatheter valve prostheses onto catheter assemblies is the difficulty in ensuring proper connection and visualization of connection points, which can lead to premature detachment and requires handling outside a liquid solution, risking air bubbles and potential damage.
Innovation Solution
A visualization device integrated with a loading tray, featuring a mirror and magnifying glass, allows users to observe all sides of the catheter assembly and valve prosthesis without removing it from the solution, ensuring secure connections without twisting or exposing the assembly to air.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If the catheter assembly is removed from the liquid solution to observe connection points, then the visibility of connection points is improved, but air bubbles are introduced and the assembly may be damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a mirror positioned at the bottom of the loading tray to reflect light and create a reflected image of the connection points on the catheter assembly. This allows the user to view connection points from multiple angles and dimensions without physically manipulating or removing the assembly from the liquid solution, thereby maintaining visibility while avoiding air bubble introduction and damage
Solution Approach 2:
The mirror acts as an intermediary optical element that mediates between the connection points and the user's line of sight. By reflecting light from the connection points, the mirror enables indirect observation without requiring direct line-of-sight access or physical manipulation of the assembly, thus solving the visibility problem while preventing harmful effects
2Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If the catheter assembly is twisted to observe all sides, then the visibility of connection points is improved, but the assembly may be damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The mirror creates a reflected virtual image that provides multi-angle visibility of connection points without requiring physical rotation or twisting of the catheter assembly. This dimensional change in observation perspective allows complete visualization while maintaining assembly integrity
Solution Approach 2:
The mirror creates an optical copy or reflected image of the connection points, allowing the user to observe all sides of the assembly simultaneously through reflection rather than physical manipulation. This copying mechanism enables complete inspection without applying mechanical stress that could damage the assembly
3Stability of the object's composition
If the catheter assembly is held in place by the loading tray, then the stability during loading is improved, but the ability to observe all sides is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The mirror positioned at the bottom of the tray enables vertical dimension observation by reflecting light from connection points that would otherwise be obscured from above. This allows the assembly to remain stable in the tray while all sides remain observable through the reflected image
Solution Approach 2:
The mirror serves as an intermediary that enables observation without requiring movement or repositioning of the stable assembly. The reflected image provides access to all sides of the connection points while the assembly remains securely held in the loading tray
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
Facilitates secure loading of valve prostheses onto catheter assemblies by enabling clear visualization of connection points within the liquid solution, preventing premature detachment and minimizing damage, thus improving the efficiency and safety of the loading process.
Implementation Method 1
A mirror is coupled to the floor of the frame and faces the open top of the reservoir
Implementation Method 2
A magnifying glass may be supported by top edges of the first and second side walls, or by support runners coupled to the top edges of the first and second side walls
Data Source
AI summary
A visualization device for use with a loading tray includes a frame comprising a floor, a first side wall extending generally perpendicular from the floor, and a second side wall extending generally perpendicular from the floor and spaced from the first side wall. The visualization device further includes a mirror abutting the floor of the frame. A magnifying glass may also be supported by top edges of the first and second side walls, or by runners coupled to the top edges of the first and second side walls. The visualization device may be slideably disposed in a reservoir of a loading tray.