Pre-curved Electrode Array Loading Tool Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for loading pre-curved electrode arrays onto stylets are cumbersome and often result in damage to the electrode arrays during the loading process, which complicates the implantation of cochlear prostheses for sensorineural hearing loss treatment.
Innovation Solution
A loading tool with a docking assembly, channel assembly, and connecting member is used to facilitate the loading of pre-curved electrode arrays onto stylets, allowing for secure retention and alignment without the need for complete straightening of the electrode array, thereby reducing the risk of damage during the loading process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If pre-curved electrode arrays are loaded onto straight stylets using current methods, then the electrode arrays can be inserted into the cochlea, but the loading process is cumbersome and often results in damage to the electrode arrays
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a curved stylet as an intermediary tool that matches the pre-curved configuration of the electrode array. This curved stylet serves as a mediator between the loading tool and the electrode array, allowing the array to be loaded onto a stylet that already has the correct curvature, thereby eliminating the need to force a straight stylet onto a curved array and preventing damage during the loading process
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-curving the stylet before loading the electrode array. The curved stylet is prepared in advance with the appropriate curvature to match the electrode array, so that when the array is loaded onto the stylet, no additional bending or forcing is required, thus preventing damage and simplifying the loading operation
2Productivity
If pre-curved electrode arrays are loaded onto stylets, then they can be implanted into the cochlea, but complete straightening of the electrode array is required which increases the risk of damage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the conventional approach by using a curved stylet instead of a straight stylet. Instead of forcing the electrode array to conform to a straight stylet (which requires complete straightening and creates damage risk), the stylet is pre-curved to match the natural configuration of the electrode array, allowing the array to remain curved throughout the loading and implantation process
3Ease of operation
If conventional loading methods are used, then electrode arrays can be loaded onto stylets, but the process is time-consuming and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The curved stylet acts as an intermediary that simplifies the loading process by pre-configuring the stylet to match the electrode array's curvature. This eliminates the need for complex straightening operations and reduces loading time, making the entire implantation process more efficient and less time-consuming
Data Source
AI summary
Exemplary systems for loading a pre-curved electrode array onto a stylet include a loading tool and a stylet retainer. The loading tool includes a docking assembly comprising a plurality of wing members that form a receptacle configured to receive a proximal portion of the stylet, a channel assembly comprising a channel configured to receive and allow passage therethrough of the pre-curved electrode array, the channel further configured to receive a distal portion of the stylet, and a connecting member configured to connect the channel assembly to the docking assembly. The stylet retainer is configured to couple to the loading tool to retain the stylet within the loading tool while the pre-curved electrode array is loaded onto the stylet. Corresponding methods are also described.