Selective Fluid Barrier Valve Actuator Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid barrier valve devices for medical procedures are limited in accommodating a range of interventional device diameters and require manual stabilization to prevent slippage, leading to inefficiencies and potential leakage during device insertion and withdrawal.
Innovation Solution
A selective fluid barrier valve device comprising a housing, actuator, sleeve, and wire members that can be moved between configurations to control fluid flow, allowing for the use of medical devices with varying diameters and reducing the need for manual stabilization through a mechanism that automatically adjusts to prevent fluid leakage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional elastomeric valves with small slits are used, then fluid leakage is minimized during device exchange, but the valve can only accommodate interventional devices with outside diameters within a small range
Solution Approach 1:
The valve mechanism transitions from a static elastomeric component to a dynamic system with movable elements. The actuator-driven mechanism adjusts the valve configuration based on the inserted device diameter, allowing the valve to adapt its sealing geometry dynamically rather than relying on a fixed small slit design.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve system changes its geometric parameters (opening size, sealing surface area, valve configuration) in response to different device diameters. This allows the same valve mechanism to accommodate a wide range of device sizes while maintaining effective fluid barrier function through parameter adjustment rather than using a fixed design.
2Reliability
If manual stabilization is applied to prevent valve slippage, then valve performance is improved, but procedural efficiency decreases due to additional manual intervention required
Solution Approach 1:
The valve mechanism incorporates self-stabilizing features through its design, where the actuator-driven adjustment and mechanical configuration automatically maintain proper positioning and prevent slippage without requiring continuous manual intervention. The system serves itself by maintaining stability through its inherent mechanical design rather than external operator input.
Solution Approach 2:
Manual stabilization operations are replaced by an automated actuator mechanism that performs the stabilization function mechanically. The actuator system automatically adjusts and secures the valve position, eliminating the need for manual stabilization while maintaining or improving valve performance.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the valve is designed to accommodate various device diameters, then adaptability is improved, but the complexity of the valve mechanism increases
Solution Approach 1:
The valve mechanism is designed as a universal system that performs multiple functions: it seals against various device diameters, automatically adjusts to different configurations, and maintains fluid barrier function across different operational states. This multi-functionality is achieved through the actuator-driven mechanism that can adapt its geometry rather than requiring multiple specialized components.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve mechanism employs a nested structure where the actuator, sleeve, and sealing elements are arranged in concentric or hierarchical configurations. This nesting allows compact packaging of the adaptive mechanism while maintaining the ability to accommodate various device diameters through coordinated movement of nested components rather than requiring separate complex assemblies.
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 effectively manages fluid leakage and stabilizes medical devices during procedures, accommodating a range of diameters and enhancing procedural efficiency by automatically adjusting to prevent fluid passage when necessary.
Implementation Method 1
A wire member has a first end attached to the housing and a second end attached to the actuator. The wire member extends between the housing and the sleeve and through a first opening defined by the housing.
Data Source
AI summary
Selective fluid barrier valve devices and methods of treatment are described herein. An embodiment of a selective fluid barrier valve device comprises a housing, an actuator, a sleeve, a wire member, and a connector. The sleeve defines a passageway that extends through the sleeve. The actuator is moveable between a first position and a second position. When the actuator is in the first position, the sleeve is in a first configuration such that fluid can pass through the passageway defined by the sleeve. When the actuator is in a second position, the sleeve is in a second configuration such that fluid is prevented from passing through the passageway defined by the sleeve.