Segmented Medical Device with Interlocking Locking Element
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Solution Overview
Problem
Guidewires and medical devices used in less invasive procedures face challenges in navigating through curved and branched pathways due to excessive flexibility, which compromises control and manipulability.
Innovation Solution
A biocompatible medical device with mechanically interlocked segments, featuring a first segment with a shaped interface and a second segment with a corresponding shaped interface, coupled via a locking element that prevents decoupling by restricting relative movement perpendicular to the axis, allowing for enhanced control and maneuverability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If guidewires are made of flexible materials to navigate curves and branches, then the ability to traverse complex pathways is improved, but control and steerability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The guidewire is divided into multiple rigid segments that can articulate relative to each other. Each segment maintains structural integrity and control responsiveness, while the articulation points between segments enable the wire to navigate curves and branches. This segmentation allows the guidewire to combine the control of rigid structures with the adaptability of flexible configurations.
2Ease of operation
If guidewires are made rigid to improve control, then steerability is improved, but the ability to navigate curves and branches deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The rigid guidewire is segmented into multiple controllable sections that can articulate at defined joints. Each segment maintains rigidity for precise control and steering, while the articulation mechanisms at the joints enable the overall structure to adapt to curved and branched pathways. This allows the guidewire to function as a rigid control structure that can still navigate complex geometries.
3Stability of the object's composition
If segments are mechanically coupled to prevent decoupling, then structural integrity is improved, but the ability to allow controlled movement deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical coupling between segments incorporates dynamic characteristics that allow controlled movement while maintaining structural integrity. The coupling mechanism includes features that permit articulation and relative movement within defined parameters, enabling the guidewire to adapt to curved pathways. Simultaneously, the coupling prevents unintended decoupling or separation, ensuring the segments remain connected during navigation and operation.
Data Source
AI summary
A biocompatible medical device having a segmented element including a first segment having a first shaped interface and a second segment having a second shaped interface configured to operably couple the first shaped interface. When the first shaped interface is engaging the second shaped interface to form a joined segmented element, the first segment and the second segment cannot be decoupled by movement along an axis through the element. The medical device further includes a locking element configured to engage the joined segmented element with a sliding motion to prevent decoupling of the first segment with respect to the second segment by preventing significant relative movement of the segments with a component of the movement perpendicular to the axis.