Rotatable Lead Connector Coupling for Noise-Free Implant Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing implantable medical leads face challenges during implantation due to tangling of test device cables and introduction of noise during rotation, which complicates the determination of optimal electrode position and depth.
Innovation Solution
The implantable medical lead is designed with a rotational electrical coupling that allows different portions to rotate relative to each other, maintaining electrical connection and reducing noise, enabling continuous signal monitoring during rotation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the implantable medical lead is rotated during implantation to advance the distal electrode into tissue, then the electrode can be positioned at the desired depth and location, but the test device cables become tangled and noise is introduced into the electrical signals
Solution Approach 1:
The lead is divided into rotatable segments that can rotate independently relative to each other. The lead body includes a first portion and a second portion that can rotate relative to one another, allowing the distal electrode to be advanced into tissue without rotating the entire lead assembly, thereby preventing cable tangling and signal noise.
Solution Approach 2:
The lead incorporates dynamic rotational joints that enable controlled rotation of specific portions of the lead during implantation. These rotational joints allow the lead to adapt its configuration dynamically, facilitating electrode positioning while maintaining electrical connection stability and preventing cable entanglement.
2Measurement precision
If the lead is rotated frequently to test electrode position, then adequate positioning can be verified, but the procedure time and effort increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The rotational electrical coupling enables continuous electrical signal transmission throughout the lead rotation process. This allows real-time monitoring of electrode position signals without interrupting the rotation, eliminating the need to stop and test repeatedly, thereby reducing procedure time while maintaining positioning precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary rotational electrical coupling mechanism that mediates between the rotating lead portions and the stationary test device. This intermediary maintains continuous electrical connection during rotation, enabling uninterrupted signal monitoring and reducing the need for repeated testing.
3Reliability
If a fixed electrical connection is used between test device and electrode, then electrical stability is maintained, but the lead cannot be rotated during implantation
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical connection system is made dynamic through rotational joints that maintain electrical continuity while allowing relative rotation between lead portions. The rotational electrical coupling includes conductive elements that remain electrically connected despite rotational movement, providing both stability and adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical parameters of the electrical connection to accommodate rotation. The rotational electrical coupling uses conductive materials and geometric configurations that maintain electrical conductivity across a range of rotational positions, transforming the connection from rigid to rotationally flexible while preserving electrical stability.
Data Source
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AI summary
An implantable medical lead includes a lead body, an electrode, a lead electrical connector, and a rotational electrical coupling. The lead electrical connector is configured to establish electrical communication between a test device and the electrode. The rotational electrical coupling includes a first conductive component electrically connected to the electrode and a second conductive component electrically connected to the first conductive component. The second conductive component is configured to establish electrical communication with the test device. The rotational electrical coupling is configured to facilitate rotation of the first conductive component relative to the second conductive component.