Stent Coupling Assembly for Secure Delivery Across Varying Sizes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional stent delivery systems require multiple pad diameters to accommodate varying stent sidewall thicknesses, necessitating precise manufacturing tolerances and complicating the process, while existing engagement members can distort or fail to securely hold stents during delivery.
Innovation Solution
A coupling assembly with a rigid plate or sprocket-like stent engagement member and spacers allows a single size to secure a broad range of stent inner diameters within a catheter, using a proximal restraint to transmit push force and minimize distortion, and tilting engagement members to navigate tortuous anatomy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple pad diameters are used to accommodate varying stent sidewall thicknesses, then stent delivery reliability is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling assembly is designed with a universal engagement mechanism that can accommodate stents of varying sidewall thicknesses using a single pad diameter. The engagement members are configured to securely hold different stent types through a standardized interface, eliminating the need for multiple specialized pads while maintaining reliable stent delivery across various stent configurations
2Ease of operation
If conventional engagement members are used, then stent delivery is possible, but stent distortion occurs and secure holding is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling assembly incorporates engagement members with specifically optimized local characteristics at the stent contact points. These engagement members are designed with precise geometric features that distribute contact forces evenly across the stent surface, preventing localized distortion while maintaining secure holding. The local quality of the engagement interface is tailored to protect stent integrity during delivery
3Reliability
If rigid engagement members are used, then stent holding security is improved, but navigation through tortuous anatomy becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling assembly employs engagement members with dynamic characteristics that allow them to adapt to the delivery system's movements through tortuous vasculature. The engagement members can tilt and adjust their orientation while maintaining secure stent engagement, providing both holding security and navigation flexibility. This dynamic capability enables the system to navigate complex anatomy without compromising stent retention
Data Source
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Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
A stent delivery system includes a core member and a coupling assembly rotatably coupled to the core member distal segment. The coupling assembly includes first and second plates and first and second spacers. The first plate is rotatably coupled to the core member and includes an outer surface having three or more projections separated by recesses. The first spacer is coupled to the core member and disposed between the first plate and a proximal restraint. The second plate is rotatably coupled to the core member and includes an outer surface having three or more projections separated by recesses. The second spacer is coupled to the core member and disposed between the first plate and the second plate. A stent extends along the core member distal segment such that an inner surface of the stent is engaged by one or more projections of the first plate or the second plate.