Segmented Knot Constraint for Controlled Stent Deployment
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing medical device delivery systems face challenges in selectively deploying expandable devices, such as stents and stent-grafts, with precise control over deployment rates and characteristics.
Innovation Solution
A medical device deployment apparatus featuring a constraint with multiple interlocking strands forming distinct knot rows, each unraveling at different deployment rates, allowing for selective and controlled deployment of medical devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a single uniform constraint structure is used for device deployment, then the device structure is simple, but the deployment control precision is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The constraint is divided into multiple discrete knot rows (first knot row, second knot row, third knot row) spaced along the constraint structure. Each knot row can be disrupted independently to initiate unraveling at different deployment rates, enabling precise control over the deployment process while maintaining a relatively simple overall constraint architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
Different knot rows are configured with different unraveling characteristics and deployment rates. The first knot row unravels at a first deployment rate, the second knot row at a second deployment rate, and the third knot row at a third deployment rate. This local differentiation allows precise control at specific locations along the constraint without requiring complete structural complexity throughout.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple knot rows with different deployment rates are implemented, then the deployment adaptability is improved, but the constraint structure complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The constraint is segmented into multiple functional knot rows that can be selectively disrupted. Each knot row serves as an independent control element that can be activated separately, providing multiple deployment scenarios and rates without requiring a completely complex multi-component system.
Solution Approach 2:
The same basic knot row structure is reused multiple times along the constraint, with each instance serving the universal function of constraining the device while potentially unraveling at different rates. This multi-functional approach provides deployment adaptability without proportionally increasing overall structural complexity.
3Manufacturing precision
If the constraint unraveling is initiated by disrupting strands, then the deployment control is precise, but the operation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Specific strands are extracted as control elements from the overall constraint structure. By targeting and disrupting individual strands associated with specific knot rows, the system achieves precise deployment control through simple mechanical actions rather than complex control mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The constraint structure is designed to automatically unravel in a controlled manner once a strand is disrupted. The unraveling process is self-propagating through the knot row structure, eliminating the need for continuous external control or complex actuation mechanisms while maintaining precise deployment.
Data Source
AI summary
Various aspects of the present disclosure are directed toward medical device deployment apparatuses, systems, and methods that include a constraint configured to releasably constrain the medical device. The constraint may be unraveled at different rates.