Shape-Memory Vessel Electrode for Variable-Diameter Nerve Contact
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrode devices struggle to effectively enclose vessels of varying diameters, leading to inconsistent treatment outcomes due to inadequate contact, as they require frequent size adjustments and are inefficient in applying energy to nerves.
Innovation Solution
An electrode device comprising a flexible electrode part with a first layer made of shape memory alloy and a second layer of insulating material, guided by a guide part, allowing it to adjust to vessel diameters through temperature-induced curvature changes, ensuring close contact and effective energy application.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If electrodes of various sizes are used to enclose vessels of different diameters, then the contact efficiency with nerves is improved, but the device complexity and operational difficulty increase due to the need to change electrodes frequently
Solution Approach 1:
The electrode part is designed with a first layer made of shape memory alloy that can dynamically change its curvature and diameter in response to temperature changes. This allows the electrode to adapt its size to match different vessel diameters, eliminating the need for multiple fixed-size electrodes while maintaining reliable nerve contact
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes temperature as a control parameter to change the physical state of the shape memory alloy in the first layer. By heating the electrode part to a transformation temperature, the shape memory alloy changes its curvature and diameter, enabling the electrode to conform to vessels of varying sizes and improve contact efficiency with surrounding nerves
2Adaptability or versatility
If the electrode is made to fit vessels of various diameters, then the adaptability is improved, but the manufacturing precision becomes more difficult to maintain
Solution Approach 1:
The electrode part employs a first layer made of shape memory alloy that functions as a flexible structure. This flexible layer can be manufactured with precise initial dimensions and then transformed in vivo to match different vessel diameters, combining manufacturing precision with adaptability
Solution Approach 2:
The electrode part is designed with a nested structure where the first layer (shape memory alloy) and second layer (insulating material) are positioned at different radial distances from the vessel. This nested configuration allows the electrode to maintain proper insulation and electrical properties while adapting to various vessel sizes
3Reliability
If the electrode part is wound tightly around the vessel, then the contact with nerves is improved, but the risk of vessel damage or discomfort increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electrode part applies pressure locally and selectively to the vessel wall and surrounding nerves where contact is needed for effective denervation, while the guide part distributes and controls the overall force application. This localized quality of force application ensures complete nerve contact without excessive compression that could damage the vessel
Solution Approach 2:
The guide part acts as an intermediary between the operator and the electrode part, controlling and mediating the force applied during the winding process. This intermediary structure allows the electrode to be positioned and secured with appropriate contact pressure while preventing excessive force that could harm the vessel
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 can flexibly accommodate vessels of different diameters, providing consistent treatment by maintaining contact and enabling precise nerve denervation or modulation, regardless of anatomical variations.
Implementation Method 1
a first layer that is bent in order for the electrode part to be wound around the vessel
Implementation Method 2
a second layer that is placed on the first layer and is bent in order for the electrode part to be wound in close contact with the vessel
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3A
Figure 3B~4A
AI summary
An electrode device for wrapping a vessel in the body according to an embodiment of the present invention comprise an electrode part that surrounds the vessel and denervates or modulates at least some nerves of the vessel; and a guide part that guides movement of the electrode part, wherein the electrode part includes: a first layer that is bent in order for the electrode part to be wound around the vessel; a second layer that is placed on the first layer and is bent in order for the electrode part to be wound in close contact with the vessel; an electrode that is placed on the second layer and denervates or modulates at least some nerves of the vessel with energy from an energy source generator.