Self-Detaching Link for Embolic Coil Delivery

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional methods for delivering detachable implantable devices, such as embolic coils, face challenges with premature deployment or jamming during catheter insertion, and require additional control mechanisms for detachment.

Innovation Solution

A detachable link system using first and second engaging members, where the first engaging member expands or contracts to lock and unlock, allowing secure delivery through a catheter and self-detachment upon exit, minimizing premature detachment and jamming risks.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Speed

If mechanical interlocks are used to detach coils from pusher wires, then quick detachment is achieved, but additional control mechanisms (control wires) are required to deploy the coil

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedetachment speedVSAvoidcontrol mechanisms

Core Design Contradiction:

SpeedVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent removes the control wire mechanism from the system by using a self-detaching link design. The link automatically detaches when the catheter is advanced beyond a certain point, eliminating the need for separate control wires while maintaining quick detachment capability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The detachable link performs its own detachment function without requiring external control mechanisms. The geometric design of the link and catheter interaction enables automatic detachment, making the system self-sufficient.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

2Measurement precision

If electrolytic release is used to detach the coil from the pusher, then accurate coil placement is enabled, but rapid detachment does not occur due to the time required for electrolysis

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecoil placement accuracyVSAvoiddetachment speed

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSSpeed

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the electrolytic release mechanism with a purely mechanical self-detaching link. This mechanical design eliminates the time delay inherent in electrolysis while maintaining the ability to place the coil accurately at the target site.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Ease of operation

If conventional mechanical interlocks are used, then detachment is achieved, but premature detachment or jamming during delivery occurs

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedetachment functionVSAvoiddelivery stability

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The detachable link has different geometric properties at different locations that enable it to remain locked during delivery and automatically detach at the target site. The local variations in geometry create distinct functional states (locked vs. unlocked) without requiring complex control mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The link transitions dynamically from a locked state during delivery to an unlocked state at the target site. This dynamic behavior is achieved through the interaction between the link geometry and the catheter, allowing the system to adapt its state based on the delivery phase.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS9155649B2Spring detach joint for delivering a detachable implantable device

Publication Date: 2015.10.13 BOSTON SCIENTIFIC SCIMED INC

AI summary

Methods and systems for delivering an implantable device to a target site, using a detachable link. The system can include an embolic coil mated to a delivery wire via a detachable link comprising first and second engaging members. When the detachable link is delivered through a catheter, the first and second engaging members are configured to self-detach.