Reversible Tissue Lock Mechanism With Catheter Repositioning

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional lock delivery systems for use in tissues are difficult to use and not reversible, making it impossible to move the lock mechanism once it is secured in position.

Innovation Solution

A reversible lock delivery system comprising a lock mechanism with a casing, first and second bodies pivotable about respective pivot points, and a lock delivery catheter with a pushable rod to move the lock mechanism between unlocked and locked configurations.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a conventional lock delivery system is used to secure a lock mechanism in position, then the lock mechanism is firmly held in place, but it cannot be moved or repositioned once secured

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelocking reliabilityVSAvoidreversibility
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The lock mechanism employs dynamic components including pivotable bodies (first and second bodies that can rotate about pivot points) and movable actuating arms that respond to forces applied through the delivery catheter. This dynamic design allows the mechanism to transition between locked and unlocked states, enabling repositioning while maintaining secure locking when engaged.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes the state parameter of the lock mechanism from locked to unlocked by applying force through the pushable rod within the delivery catheter. This force transmission causes the actuating arms to move and the bodies to pivot, thereby changing the mechanical state of the lock to enable repositioning or removal.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Ease of operation

If a lock mechanism is designed to be easily movable and repositionable, then it can be adjusted freely, but it may not secure firmly in the desired position

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproverepositionabilityVSAvoidlocking reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The mechanism uses dynamic pivotable bodies and movable actuating arms that can be easily repositioned by applying force through the delivery catheter, yet when locked, the interlocking teeth and rigid structure provide firm security. The dynamic design enables both ease of repositioning and reliable locking.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The lock mechanism is divided into separate functional components including first and second bodies with gripping portions, actuating arms, and interlocking teeth. This segmentation allows independent movement and adjustment of components to achieve repositioning while maintaining secure engagement when locked in position.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Adaptability or versatility

If a lock delivery system uses a complex mechanism to achieve reversible locking, then it can be moved and secured, but the system becomes difficult to operate

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovereversibilityVSAvoidoperational simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The delivery catheter with pushable rod serves as an intermediary tool that simplifies operation. By applying linear force through the catheter, the operator can easily actuate the complex pivotable bodies and actuating arms, making the reversible locking mechanism simple to operate despite its mechanical complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The system combines multiple functions into integrated components: the delivery catheter serves as both the delivery vehicle and the actuating mechanism, while the first and second bodies with their gripping portions and actuating arms are combined into a unified lock mechanism that achieves reversible locking through coordinated movement of its parts.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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 allows for secure and reversible locking and unlocking of tissues, facilitating applications such as cardiovascular valve repair by enabling the tightening of tissue sections.

Implementation Method 1

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.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentEP4516242A1Lock delivery system
Publication Date: 2025.03.05 VESALIUS CARDIOVASCULAR INC
  • EP4516242A1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP4516242A1 patent drawingFigure 3
  • EP4516242A1 patent drawingFigure 4A~4B

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.