Segmented Clamp Unit Blocks for Artificial Valve Crimping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing compression devices for artificial heart valve replacement are complex, costly, difficult to clean, and pose challenges in manufacturing and sterilization, with issues related to the martensitic transformation of nickel-titanium shape-memory alloy stents during the crimping process.
Innovation Solution
A compression device with a simple structure featuring clamp unit blocks connected by comb-shaped connecting arms, allowing for easy cooling and crimping of the artificial valve replacing device, with a guide structure to ensure synchronized movement and equal force distribution, reducing manufacturing costs and improving sanitation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a complex crimping mechanism with wedge-shaped blocks and sliding structures is used, then the compression function is achieved, but the device complexity increases and manufacturing cost rises
Solution Approach 1:
The compression device is divided into multiple independent clamp unit blocks (at least three) that can be separately manufactured and then assembled. Each block has a simplified structure with a compression surface, eliminating the need for complex sliding mechanisms while achieving the required compression function through their collective arrangement in a compressing channel.
2Ease of operation
If the device structure is made complex to achieve compression function, then the compression capability is improved, but the ease of cleaning and sterilization deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the compression device into simple, modular clamp unit blocks with smooth surfaces and no hidden crevices, the structure becomes easily cleanable and sterilizable. The simplified design eliminates complex sliding structures and peripheral components that would trap debris and make cleaning difficult.
3Ease of manufacture
If the device size is reduced for simpler structure, then the manufacturing cost decreases, but the compression effectiveness may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
Each clamp unit block is designed with a specifically shaped compression surface that concentrates force locally on the stent. The arrangement of multiple blocks around the compressing channel ensures uniform distribution of compression force, achieving precise and effective compression despite the simplicity and small size of individual components.
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 device is easier to operate, reduces manufacturing and maintenance costs, facilitates cleaning, and ensures even force distribution during crimping, enhancing the quality and stability of the artificial valve replacement process.
Implementation Method 1
clamp unit blocks (1), wherein the number of the clamp unit blocks (1) is at least three, the clamp unit blocks (1) are connected with each other in sequence and enclose a compressing channel (2)
Implementation Method 2
the clamp unit blocks comprise a connecting portion and comb-shaped connecting arms fixed on both sides of the connecting portion; the clamp unit blocks are glidingly connected with each other by adjacent connecting arms
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention discloses a compression device for artificial valve replacing device that comprises at least two clamp unit blocks connecting with each other in sequence and enclosing a compressing channel. The compression device further comprises a guide structure for leading all clamp unit blocks to retract towards the center of the compressing channel. In this invention, when the artificial valve replacing device is placed in the compressing channel, the inner wall of the compressing channel props against the peripheral wall of the artificial valve replacing device. When the clamp unit blocks are retracting towards the center of the compressing channel under the action of outside force, the inner wall of the compressing channel applies the force directing to the center of the compressing channel. The device has the low manufacturing cost and is convenient to clean due to the simple structure, fully satisfying the requirements for operation sanitation in use. Therefore, the production and maintenance costs are reduced and the expense shifted to consumers is lowered.