Shape Memory Implant Insertion With Nested Jaws
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing instrumentation for shape memory implants is cumbersome, prone to damage, and inefficient in transitioning stored mechanical energy during implantation, leading to difficulties in fixation and potential damage to the implants.
Innovation Solution
An implant insertion device with jaws and a slider that maintains the shape memory implant in its insertion shape, allowing preloading and sterilization, and controls the release of mechanical energy into tissue or bone.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If metal forceps are used to hold and insert the shape memory implant, then the implant can be securely grasped, but the forceps are large which hinders implantation and require sterilization between uses
Solution Approach 1:
The delivery device incorporates a series of nested components including an outer sheath, inner pusher, and jaw mechanism that fit within each other. The implant itself is nested within the closed jaws, which are nested within the delivery device. This nested structure allows the entire assembly to be inserted through a small incision while maintaining secure grasp of the implant.
Solution Approach 2:
The delivery device is divided into multiple functional segments: an outer sheath for protection, an inner pusher for advancement, expandable jaws for grasping, and a release mechanism. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function while keeping the overall device compact for minimally invasive insertion.
2Ease of manufacture
If plastic disposable tools are used to maintain the implant in second shape, then the implant can be preloaded and sterilized, but the implant sticks to the instrumentation due to frictional engagement
Solution Approach 1:
The delivery device features dynamic, movable jaws that can transition between open and closed states, and an inner pusher that can move relative to the outer sheath. This dynamic design allows the jaws to open wide for easy implant loading, then close securely for maintenance during insertion, and finally release smoothly at the target site without the implant sticking.
Solution Approach 2:
The inner pusher acts as an intermediary between the operator and the implant, allowing the implant to be advanced without direct contact with the outer sheath. The movable jaws serve as intermediaries that can adapt their grip, reducing frictional engagement compared to fixed plastic tools.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the implant fits inside a passage substantially the same diameter as the implant, then the instrumentation allows preloading, but this creates abrupt and sudden release of stored mechanical energy
Solution Approach 1:
The delivery device employs dynamic components including an expandable jaw mechanism and a movable inner pusher within an outer sheath. These dynamic elements allow for controlled, gradual release of the implant by enabling the jaws to open progressively as the implant is deployed, rather than sudden release.
Solution Approach 2:
The device is segmented into multiple controllable sections that can be activated in sequence. The inner pusher can advance the implant while the jaws remain closed, then the jaws can open in a controlled manner, allowing the operator to manage the energy release process step-by-step rather than all at once.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the implant fits inside a passage substantially the same diameter as the implant, then the instrumentation allows preloading, but this results in entanglement during release making extraction difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The delivery device features dynamically movable jaws that can open and close, and an inner pusher that can move independently within the outer sheath. This dynamic design allows the jaws to open wide for easy extraction after implant deployment, preventing entanglement that would occur with fixed-diameter passages.
Solution Approach 2:
The nested structure allows the inner pusher to be withdrawn independently from the outer sheath after the implant is deployed. This independent movement capability enables clean extraction of the delivery device components without the implant or components becoming entangled, as each nested element can be removed in sequence.
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 simplifies the implantation process, prevents damage to the implants, and ensures controlled energy release, enhancing fixation efficacy.
Implementation Method 1
A shape memory implant that requires mechanical constraint stores mechanical energy due to elastic (recoverable) deformation, and then releases the stored mechanical energy when the constraint is removed
Data Source
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AI summary
An implant insertion device is designed for use with a shape memory implant movable between an unconstrained shape and an insertion shape. The implant insertion device maintains the shape memory implant in its insertion shape until the delivery of the shape memory implant into tissue or bone. Upon the release of the shape memory implant from the implant insertion device, the shape memory implant attempts to move from its insertion shape to its unconstrained shape, thereby releasing mechanical energy into the tissue or bone.