Segmented Electrical Stimulation Lead Alignment Groove
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current implantable electrical stimulation systems face challenges in precise alignment and efficient electrical contact between leads and connectors, which can affect the accuracy and effectiveness of electrical stimulation therapies.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates an alignment groove on the lead body and segmented terminals/proxy contacts within the connector lumen, allowing for precise alignment and secure electrical coupling through the use of an alignment protuberance, enhancing the connection between the lead and the connector.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional continuous terminals are used in leads and connectors, then manufacturing is simpler, but alignment precision between lead and connector is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides continuous terminals into multiple segmented terminals arranged circumferentially around the lead body. Each segmented terminal is separated by insulating material, creating discrete contact points that can be precisely aligned with corresponding connector contacts through the alignment groove feature.
2Manufacturing precision
If alignment features are added to improve connection precision, then alignment accuracy improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an alignment groove as an asymmetric geometric feature on the lead body that complements a corresponding protrusion on the connector. This asymmetric design provides a unique orientation reference that ensures precise rotational alignment when the lead is inserted into the connector, eliminating ambiguity in positioning.
3Reliability
If segmented terminals with insulating material are used, then electrical isolation between contacts is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the insulating material directly into the lead body structure, merging the electrical isolation function with the structural support function. The insulating material is positioned between segmented terminals and also serves as part of the lead body's structural framework, reducing the need for separate insulating components and simplifying the manufacturing process.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
An electrical stimulation lead (803, 903) includes a lead body that defines an alignment groove (982) extending distally from a proximal end of the lead body and inwardly from an outer surface of the lead body. The lead also includes electrodes (550, 650) disposed along the distal portion of the lead body, segmented terminals (810, 910) disposed along the proximal portion of the lead and arranged in sets (811) of segmented terminals, and lead conductors electrically coupling the electrodes to the terminals. Each set (811) of segmented terminals includes at least two segmented terminals (810a, 810b) disposed in a circumferential arrangement at a same longitudinal position of the lead. A system can include the lead and a connector (844) for receiving the proximal end of the lead. The connector includes an alignment protuberance (880, 1080) extending into a connector lumen (862, 1062) and configured to be received into the alignment groove (982) of the lead to align the lead with the connector.