Slotted Steering Tool for Medical Lumens
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing steering tools for medical devices through body lumens lack flexibility and precision in bending, particularly for small diameters, and require multiple parts and complex assembly processes.
Innovation Solution
A steering tool comprising internal and external tubes with slotted ends that allow longitudinal axial movement, enabling controlled bending and steerability, with adjustable slot geometry and alignment features for precise manipulation, and optional integration with handles for enhanced control and functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If traditional steering tools are used, then basic steering function is provided, but flexibility and precision in bending are insufficient particularly for small diameters
Solution Approach 1:
The tube is segmented by introducing slots that divide the continuous tube structure into sections. These slots allow the tube to bend more precisely and flexibly, particularly for small diameter applications, while maintaining structural integrity through the distributed slot configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The slots are positioned specifically near the distal end of the tube where bending is most required. This local modification provides enhanced flexibility and bending precision at the critical region while maintaining the structural strength of the proximal portion of the tube.
2Ease of operation
If multiple parts are used in steering tools, then steering functionality is achieved, but device complexity and assembly process become complex
Solution Approach 1:
The steering functionality is merged into a single tube structure by integrating slots directly into the tube wall. This eliminates the need for separate steering components such as pull wires or external control mechanisms, reducing the number of parts while maintaining full steerability.
Solution Approach 2:
The slotted tube structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural support, enables bending and steering, and allows for torque transmission. This multi-functionality is achieved within a single component, eliminating the need for multiple specialized parts.
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 tool provides enhanced steerability, flexibility, and torqueability with reduced part complexity, allowing precise navigation through body lumens of varying diameters and shapes, facilitating applications like drug delivery and fiber optic guidance with improved stability and ease of use.
Implementation Method 1
The longitudinal axial movement causes bending of the distal ends of the tubes
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
Figure 4~5A
AI summary
A steering tool (200) includes an internal tube (12) disposed inside an external tube (14). The internal and external tubes are arranged for longitudinal axial movement relative to one another. A distal end of the internal tube is fixedly joined to a distal end of the external tube. At least one of the internal and external tubes is slotted near the distal end thereof, and the longitudinal axial movement causes bending of the distal ends of the tubes.