Multi-direction Steerable Catheter Handle Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional catheter control systems offer limited flexibility, requiring complex combinations of actuation to control the magnitude and direction of catheter flex, making it difficult to intuitively steer the distal end of the catheter in desired directions.
Innovation Solution
The development of steerable catheter assemblies with independent control mechanisms for flex magnitude and direction, utilizing multiple pull wires coupled to a cam member, gimbal mechanism, or ball-and-socket mechanisms within a control handle, allowing for precise adjustment of catheter flex through axial and rotational movements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional catheter control systems use multiple pull wires with integrated control, then the catheter can be steered in multiple directions, but the control complexity increases and becomes difficult to operate intuitively
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is segmented into independent magnitude control and direction control mechanisms. The magnitude control adjusts the overall flex amount of the catheter, while the direction control independently adjusts the steering direction. This segmentation allows each control to function separately, making the system easier to operate intuitively while maintaining full steering capability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional catheter control systems require complex combinations of actuation, then limited flexing in two orthogonal axes is achieved, but the operational complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control mechanism is divided into separate magnitude and direction control components. Instead of requiring complex combinations of multiple actuators, the system uses independent controls that can be adjusted separately, reducing the overall device complexity while maintaining the ability to achieve flexing in multiple directions.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system adds an independent dimension of control by separating magnitude and direction adjustments. This allows the operator to control catheter flex in two orthogonal axes without requiring complex coordinated actuation, as each axis can be controlled independently through the segmented control mechanisms.
3Ease of operation
If independent control of catheter flex magnitude and direction is implemented, then ease of operation improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control mechanisms are designed with multi-functionality to reduce overall device complexity. The magnitude control and direction control share common structural elements and control components, allowing them to perform multiple functions within a unified framework. This universality enables independent control of magnitude and direction without proportionally increasing the total device complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein are steerable catheter assemblies and handles for steerable catheter assemblies. Some implementations include a catheter with two or more pull wires that flex the catheter and a control handle coupled to the catheter. The control handle can include a housing, first, second, third, and fourth followers in the housing, and first and second drivers. Rotation of the first driver moves the first and second followers in opposite directions. Rotation of the second driver moves the third and fourth followers in opposite directions.