Sewing Ring Locking Mechanism for Toolless VAD Attachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for implanting ventricular assist devices (VADs) into the heart require tools such as screwdrivers and wrenches, which can complicate the surgical procedure and increase the risk of complications.
Innovation Solution
A toolless system for attaching a VAD to a patient's heart, featuring a sewing ring frame with a locking mechanism that includes a flange, a locking pin, and a biasing element, allowing for secure attachment without the need for external tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional tools (screwdrivers, wrenches) are used to attach the VAD, then the attachment can be secured, but the surgical procedure becomes more complex and the risk of complications increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is designed to be self-actuating through the biasing element that automatically engages the locking pin with the inflow cannula mating member without requiring external tools. The system serves itself by using the biasing force to maintain engagement and the surgical instrument to trigger disengagement when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent removes the need for external surgical tools (screwdrivers, wrenches) from the attachment process. The locking mechanism integrates all necessary components (locking pin, biasing element, flange) into the sewing ring frame itself, extracting the external tool requirement from the system.
2Reliability
If traditional tools are used for attachment, then secure connection can be achieved, but the surgical time increases and efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking pin is pre-positioned in a retracted state within the sewing ring frame, and the biasing element is pre-loaded to provide automatic engagement. This preliminary arrangement allows the locking mechanism to engage automatically once the inflow cannula is inserted, eliminating the need for time-consuming manual tool operation during surgery.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism automatically engages and maintains secure connection without requiring continuous external tool operation. The biasing element provides continuous engagement force, making the system self-sustaining and eliminating surgical time losses associated with tool handling.
3Reliability
If a locking mechanism with multiple components is used, then secure attachment is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking pin, biasing element, flange, and sewing ring frame are merged into a single integrated assembly. These components work together as one unit rather than separate parts, reducing overall complexity while maintaining secure attachment functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The sewing ring frame serves multiple functions: it provides the structural ring for heart attachment, incorporates the locking mechanism, includes the biasing element, and integrates the flange for engagement. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed in the system.
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 toolless system facilitates a more straightforward and less invasive attachment process, reducing the risk of complications and improving surgical efficiency while ensuring secure attachment of the VAD.
Implementation Method 1
a biasing element disposed between the flange and the locking pin
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to an attachment device having a sewing ring frame and a locking element mounted on the sewing ring frame. The locking mechanism includes a flange element projecting from the outer surface of the sewing ring frame and a retractable locking pin projecting towards the interior of the sewing ring frame. The flange is coupled to the locking pin and the biasing element. The locking mechanism is transitionable between a locked configuration in which the locking pin is in an engaged position to an unlocked configuration in which the locking pin is in a disengaged position.