Multi-stranded Trackable Guidewire Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing guidewires face challenges in integrating trackable sensors with high signal strength due to electrical and mechanical constraints, such as limited space and the need for additional structural elements, which affects their conductivity and mechanical strength, especially in narrow vasculature environments.
Innovation Solution
A guidewire design featuring a plurality of wires arranged in a predetermined pattern to provide both electrical conductivity and mechanical strength, with insulated wires and electrical conductors disposed within, allowing for efficient coupling of sensing devices while minimizing space occupation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If trackable sensors of high signal strength are incorporated into guidewires, then tracking capability is improved, but the guidewire diameter increases and available space for other components is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the electrical conductor and structural support functions into a single integrated wire structure. The guidewire uses conductive wires that provide both electrical conductivity for the trackable sensor and mechanical structural support, eliminating the need for separate structural elements and reducing overall guidewire diameter while maintaining tracking capability.
2Strength
If additional structural elements are added to provide mechanical strength, then guidewire strength is improved, but the space available for electrical conductors and other components is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements multi-functional wires that simultaneously provide electrical conductivity and mechanical structural support. The same conductive wires that carry electrical signals also serve as structural elements providing tensile strength and guidewire integrity, eliminating the need for separate structural components and maximizing available space within the guidewire.
3Reliability
If shielded electrical connections are used to reduce noise, then signal quality is improved, but the number of wires increases and real estate in the guidewire is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the electrical conductor and structural support functions into a single integrated wire structure. The guidewire uses conductive wires that provide both electrical conductivity for the trackable sensor and mechanical structural support, eliminating the need for separate structural elements and reducing overall guidewire diameter while maintaining tracking capability.
Data Source
AI summary
A trackable guidewire is presented. The guidewire includes a plurality of wires arranged in a predetermined pattern to form a body of the guidewire, where the plurality of wires is configured to simultaneously provide electrical conductivity of signals and mechanical strength. A guidewire assembly is also presented, where the guidewire assembly includes a guidewire, where the guidewire includes a plurality of wires arranged in a predetermined pattern to form a body of the guidewire, and the plurality of wires is configured to simultaneously provide electrical conductivity of signals and mechanical strength, and one or more sensing devices, where the one or more sensing devices are operatively coupled to the guidewire. Methods of making the guidewire and the guidewire assembly are also contemplated in conjunction with the present technique.