Multi-lead-element stimulation lead with junction coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current implantable electrical stimulation systems face limitations in manufacturing flexibility and cost-effectiveness, particularly in designing leads with multiple elements, as existing methods often require replacing entire leads when malfunctioning parts are identified, and there is a need for more efficient methods to couple distal and proximal lead elements.
Innovation Solution
The development of implantable electrical stimulation leads with a multi-lead-element design, where a distal lead element is coupled to multiple proximal lead elements via a junction, allowing for separate manufacturing and replacement of individual elements, and incorporating a circuit arrangement to electrically connect conductive wires, enhancing manufacturing flexibility and reducing costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If traditional single-lead designs are used, then manufacturing and assembly are simpler, but replacement of malfunctioning components requires replacing the entire lead, increasing cost and reducing manufacturing flexibility
Solution Approach 1:
The lead body is divided into multiple separate lead elements (first lead element, second lead element, third lead element) that can be manufactured independently and assembled into a complete lead. Each lead element contains specific electrodes and conductive wires, allowing selective replacement of malfunctioning elements without discarding the entire lead assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple lead elements are nested within a common insulator that provides structural support and electrical insulation. The lead elements are positioned in longitudinal alignment within the insulator, creating a compact integrated structure that maintains the benefits of simplicity while enabling modular replacement capability.
2Ease of repair
If multi-element lead designs are implemented, then selective replacement of malfunctioning elements is enabled, but the manufacturing process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The lead is segmented into replaceable lead elements that can be manufactured separately using standardized processes. Each element contains conductive wires, electrodes, and insulation that can be produced through consistent manufacturing techniques, then assembled into the final multi-element lead structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The common insulator serves multiple functions: providing electrical insulation between lead elements, offering mechanical support for all elements, and enabling longitudinal alignment of multiple elements. This universal component simplifies the assembly process despite the multi-element configuration.
3Reliability
If entire leads are replaced when malfunctioning parts are detected, then reliability is maintained, but cost increases and manufacturing efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the lead into independent replaceable elements, the system maintains reliability through selective replacement of only the malfunctioning element rather than the entire lead. This segmentation enables quality control at the element level and allows defective elements to be identified and replaced individually, improving manufacturing efficiency and reducing waste.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular lead element design enables discarding only the specific malfunctioning element while recovering and retaining functional elements. This approach reduces material waste and manufacturing costs compared to replacing entire leads, while maintaining system reliability through replacement of the defective component.
Data Source
AI summary
A lead for providing electrical stimulation of patient tissue includes a distal lead element, at least two proximal lead elements, and a junction coupling the distal lead element to each of the at least two proximal lead elements. The distal lead element includes a plurality of electrodes and a plurality of conductive wires coupled to the plurality of electrodes and extending along a longitudinal axis of the distal lead element. Each of the at least two proximal lead elements includes a plurality of terminals and a plurality of conductive wires coupled to the plurality of terminals and extending along a longitudinal axis of the proximal lead element. The junction includes a circuit arrangement electrically coupling each of the conductive wires of the distal lead element to at least one of the conductive wires of at least one of the at least two proximal lead elements.