Threaded Connector Assembly for Implantable Leads
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional connector systems for implantable electrical stimulation leads have a large lateral profile, which can compromise patient comfort and clinical efficacy, and lack efficient sealing mechanisms to prevent fluid ingress.
Innovation Solution
A threaded connector assembly featuring a lead with a non-parallel proximal tip aperture and a connector with a corresponding fastener aperture, utilizing a threaded fastener for secure attachment while minimizing the overall profile and providing a fluid-resistant seal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If conventional connector systems are used for implantable electrical stimulation leads, then the connection is secure, but the lateral profile becomes large which compromises patient comfort and clinical efficacy
Solution Approach 1:
The lead is inserted into and nested within the connector body, with the proximal tip receiving the threaded fastener that also engages with the connector. This nesting arrangement allows the lead to be housed within the connector's internal volume rather than requiring external attachment mechanisms, thereby reducing the lateral profile while maintaining secure connection through the threaded fastener engagement.
2Volume of moving object
If conventional connector systems are used for implantable electrical stimulation leads, then the connection is secure, but the overall device size increases which affects patient comfort
Solution Approach 1:
The lead assembly is nested within the connector body, with the proximal tip of the lead receiving the threaded fastener that engages with the connector interior. This nested configuration minimizes the overall device volume by utilizing the internal space of the connector rather than requiring external attachment structures, thereby reducing the implant size while maintaining secure connection.
3Reliability
If conventional connector systems are used, then connection is established, but fluid ingress into the lead lumen cannot be prevented
Solution Approach 1:
A separate sealing element is introduced as an intermediary component between the lead and the connector. This sealing element is positioned within the connector body to prevent bodily fluids from entering the lead lumen, while allowing the lead to be securely connected through the threaded fastener mechanism. The seal acts as a mediator that blocks fluid pathways without interfering with the mechanical connection.
Data Source
AI summary
A connector assembly includes a lead with a lead body having proximal and distal portions. The lead body defines a longitudinal axis. Terminals are disposed along the proximal portion and a proximal tip is attached thereto. The proximal tip defines an aperture that is non-parallel to the longitudinal axis. The connector assembly further includes a connector having a connector body, a connector lumen, and connector contacts disposed within the connector body. The connector body includes a fastener aperture proximal to all of the connector contacts and intersecting the connector lumen. The fastener aperture and the aperture of the proximal tip align when the proximal portion is fully received within the connector lumen. At least one of the apertures includes internal threading. The connector assembly also includes a threaded fastener for insertion into the apertures to secure the lead to the connector.