Toolless Quick Connect Sewing Ring for VAD Attachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for attaching ventricular assist devices (VADs) to the heart require cumbersome tools and may not securely prevent rotational displacement during implantation, potentially leading to inefficiencies and complications in surgical procedures.
Innovation Solution
A tool-less system featuring a sewing ring frame with a locking mechanism, including a biasing element, slide, and locking pin, which transitions between engaged and disengaged positions to securely attach the VAD, utilizing a mating member system to prevent rotational displacement and ensure a stable attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional tools (screwdrivers, wrenches) are used to attach the VAD, then the attachment can be secured, but the surgical procedure becomes more complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment device is designed to be self-contained with an integrated locking mechanism that automatically secures the VAD to the sewing ring frame without requiring external tools. The biasing element automatically engages the locking pin when the VAD is inserted, making the system self-servicing and eliminating the need for screwdrivers or wrenches during surgery.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism components (locking pin, biasing element, guide member) are merged into a single integrated assembly that is mounted on the sewing ring frame. This consolidation allows the entire locking function to be attached to the VAD in one operation, reducing surgical complexity while maintaining secure attachment.
2Reliability
If traditional attachment methods are used, then the VAD can be mounted, but rotational displacement cannot be effectively prevented
Solution Approach 1:
The locking pin and guide member are configured with asymmetric geometries that engage in a way that prevents rotational movement. The guide member overlaps the slide and the locking pin is disposed between the slide and sewing ring frame in a specific orientation that mechanically constrains rotation, ensuring the VAD remains properly oriented once attached.
3Ease of operation
If a tool-less system is implemented, then surgical procedure is simplified, but the locking mechanism complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism uses a dynamic biasing element that automatically transitions between engaged and disengaged states based on the insertion force applied during surgery. This dynamic behavior allows the complex locking mechanism to operate automatically without requiring surgical intervention or tool manipulation, simplifying the surgical procedure while managing the inherent complexity through automated operation.
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
Facilitates secure and efficient attachment of VADs to the heart, reducing the need for manual tools and preventing rotational displacement, thereby enhancing the reliability and ease of surgical procedures.
Implementation Method 1
a biasing element projecting from the outer surface of the sewing ring frame... The biasing element is movably coupled to the locking pin and the slide and is transitionable between a first configuration in which the first mating member is in an engaged position to a second configuration in which the first mating member is in a disengaged position
Data Source
AI summary
An attachment device has a sewing ring frame and a locking mechanism movably mounted on the sewing ring frame. The locking mechanism includes a biasing element projecting from the outer surface of the sewing ring frame and a slide substantially co-planar to the sewing ring frame. The slide further includes a first mating member. Additionally, the locking mechanism includes at least one guide member overlapping the slide and a locking pin disposed between the slide and the sewing ring frame. The biasing element is movably coupled to the locking pin and the slide and is transitionable between a first configuration in which the first mating member is in a disengaged position to a second configuration in which the first mating member is in an engaged position.