Stent Marker Lateral Extensions Force Distribution

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current stent designs face issues with bending and deformation due to concentrated pushing forces at the proximal and distal ends, particularly in longer stents, which can lead to structural damage and instability during implantation and deployment.

Innovation Solution

The introduction of markers with lateral extensions that distribute pushing forces more evenly across the stent structure, reducing the concentration of force on directly connected structural members and minimizing bending and deformation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If traditional markers without lateral extensions are used, then the stent structure is simpler, but the pushing force is concentrated on directly connected structural members causing bending and deformation

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveresistance to bending and deformationVSAvoidmarker structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The marker is divided into multiple functional segments: a connecting portion that attaches to the stent structure and lateral extensions that distribute force. This segmentation allows the pushing force to be distributed across multiple structural members rather than concentrating it at a single attachment point, thereby reducing bending and deformation while maintaining structural integrity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The lateral extensions project outward from the connecting portion in a direction perpendicular to the stent's longitudinal axis. This dimensional extension creates additional contact points with the stent structure, transforming a one-dimensional force transmission path into a multi-dimensional force distribution system that reduces stress concentration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Length of moving object

If longer stents are used to treat larger vessels, then the coverage area is increased, but the pushing force causes more bending and deformation

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestent lengthVSAvoidstructural stability during implantation
Core Design Contradiction:
Length of moving objectVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The marker structure is segmented into a connecting portion and lateral extensions, creating multiple force distribution pathways. This segmentation is particularly beneficial for longer stents where the pushing force would otherwise cause excessive bending, as the distributed marker structure provides additional support points along the stent's length.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The lateral extensions are positioned at specific locations on the marker to optimize force distribution. By strategically placing extensions at different radial positions, the design creates localized reinforcement zones that prevent bending and deformation in critical areas of the stent structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Data Source

PatentUS7763066B2Stent with an end member having a lateral extension
Publication Date: 2010.07.27 COOK MEDICAL TECHNOLOGIES LLC
  • US7763066B2 patent drawing
  • US7763066B2 patent drawing
  • US7763066B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A marker and pushing member are provided with lateral extensions connected to a connecting portion. The connecting portion connects the marker/pushing member to a proximal or distal end of the stent. The lateral extensions distribute forces applied to the marker/pushing member so that part of the force is applied to the connecting member and part of the force is applied to a portion of the stent structure that is not directly connected to the connecting member.