Prosthesis Compression via Rotatable Sheet Mechanism
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Stent members and other prosthetic devices require compression for navigation through narrow body vessels, but certain materials, like biodegradable polymers, risk permanent setting when stored in a compressed state, and existing methods may not ensure proper expansion or handling in sterile environments.
Innovation Solution
A device with a cylindrical housing and rotatable parts, featuring a flexible rectangular sheet for controlled compression, with projections to limit rotation and prevent over-compression, along with a detent mechanism and tactile/visual signals for correct operation, allowing for intuitive and sterile compression of prostheses.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If the prosthesis is compressed using conventional methods, then it can be inserted into narrow body vessels, but the material may suffer permanent setting or damage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the compression parameter from fixed/conventional to controlled/adjustable by implementing a rotatable component that allows precise control over the compression process, enabling the operator to stop compression at the optimal point before material damage occurs
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a dynamic, adjustable compression mechanism where the second component can rotate relative to the first component, transforming the static compression process into a dynamic one that can be controlled and stopped at any point to prevent over-compression
2Length of moving object
If the prosthesis is compressed to fit narrow vessels, then it can be delivered to the target site, but it may not fully expand upon insertion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism through the rotatable component that provides tactile or visual indication when the optimal compression level is reached, ensuring that the prosthesis is compressed sufficiently for delivery but not so much that it cannot fully expand at the target site
3Ease of operation
If the prosthesis is compressed before storage, then it can be handled conveniently, but tissue-based devices may be damaged or fail to expand properly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary compression action at the point of use rather than during storage, allowing the prosthesis to be stored in its natural state and only compressed when needed for delivery, thus maintaining tissue-based device integrity while still enabling convenient handling at the time of procedure
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
Enables controlled and efficient compression of prostheses, ensuring immediate expansion and reducing the risk of material damage, while allowing on-site compression in a sterile environment, ensuring the prosthesis fits into introducer systems without causing damage.
Implementation Method 1
respective parts of the flexible member being attached to the first and second relatively rotatable parts such that, upon relative rotation thereof, the size of the space is reduced so as to be capable of compressing the prosthesis
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4~9
AI summary
A prosthesis (100) is compressed in a device (10) by being wrapped in a flexible sheet (60) inside a cartridge (12), the opposite edges of the sheet being led out through a longitudinal slit (40) in the cartridge and attached respectively to the outer surface of cartridge (12) and the inner surface of a surrounding shell (50); subsequent relative rotation of the shell (50) pulls the sheet (60) outwardly of the cartridge causing compression of the prosthesis. Stop projections (72,73) are provided to limit the rotation to less than one complete revolution. End pieces (14,16) of the device have tubes (22,32) aligned with the prosthesis when compressed and a pusher rod (90), Fig 4, is pushed through the tubes to push the prosthesis into an introducer sheath (36). The or each end piece (14,16) may incorporate a ratchet mechanism (120) to prevent rotation in the wrong direction.