Reversible Tissue Lock Mechanism With Pivoting Grips
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional lock delivery systems for use in tissues are difficult to use and not reversible, making it challenging to secure and release lock mechanisms in position.
Innovation Solution
A reversible lock delivery system comprising a lock mechanism with pivotable bodies and a pushable rod mechanism, allowing the lock to transition between unlocked and locked configurations using a lock delivery catheter, enabling securement and release of tethers in tissues like the mitral valve.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional lock delivery system is used, then the lock mechanism can be secured in position, but it cannot be moved or released
Solution Approach 1:
The lock mechanism incorporates movable bodies (first and second bodies) that can pivot between locked and unlocked configurations. The first body pivots about a first pivot point and the second body pivots about a second pivot point, allowing dynamic transition between states. This enables the lock to be both secure when locked and reversible when needed, resolving the contradiction between reliability and adaptability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a lock mechanism is made reversible, then it can be moved between configurations, but it becomes more complex to operate
Solution Approach 1:
A pushable rod acts as an intermediary mechanism to simplify operation. The rod can be pushed to advance and engage with the lock mechanism, causing the first and second bodies to pivot simultaneously. This intermediary element translates a simple pushing motion into the complex coordinated movement required for reversible locking, maintaining ease of operation while enabling reversibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The pushable rod is received within a lumen of the lock delivery catheter, creating a nested structure. The rod can slide longitudinally within the confined space of the catheter, allowing the unlocking mechanism to be compact and easy to operate without requiring external complex mechanisms.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the lock mechanism uses multiple pivotable bodies, then it achieves reversible functionality, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The lock mechanism is divided into separate functional components: a casing, a first body with first gripping portion, a second body with second gripping portion, and a pushable rod. Each segment has a specific function and can be independently analyzed. The first and second bodies are spaced-apart and pivot independently about their respective pivot points, reducing the complexity of each individual component while achieving complex overall functionality.
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
The system effectively secures and releases tethers in tissues, providing a reversible and efficient method for cardiovascular valve repair by allowing the lock mechanism to pivot between configurations, facilitating the tightening and loosening of tissue sections.
Implementation Method 1
The first body may comprise a first spring arranged spaced-apart from the first actuating arm, and the second body may comprise a second spring arranged spaced-apart from the second actuating arm
Data Source
AI summary
A lock delivery system is disclosed. The lock mechanism is reversible between an unlocked configuration and a locked configuration. The lock mechanism may comprise a casing, and a first body and a second body arranged spaced-apart in the casing. The first body may comprise a first gripping portion extending to a first actuating arm, and a first spring arranged spaced-apart from the first actuating arm. The second body may comprise a second gripping portion extending to a second actuating arm, and a second spring arranged spaced-apart from the second actuating arm. The first and second bodies are each pivotable about a respective first pivot point and second pivot point so as to move the lock mechanism between an unlocked configuration and a locked configuration. A lock delivery catheter may be used as a means to move the lock mechanism between the unlocked configuration and the locked configuration.