Torque Device with Spring-Loaded Actuator for Guidewire Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional torque devices for medical guidewires require two-handed operability, are not intuitive, and can cause damage to the guidewire due to inadequate gripping and misuse, especially when navigating through complex vascular structures.
Innovation Solution
A torque device with a push-to-release configuration, featuring a housing and slidable actuator with a resilient biasing member, allowing for one-handed operation and secure gripping of the guidewire through a non-circular lumen design that provides multiple points of contact, minimizing the risk of kinking and damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional torque devices are used, then two-handed operability is provided, but the device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate due to the need for loosening and repositioning during procedures
Solution Approach 1:
The torque device incorporates a spring-loaded button mechanism that automatically secures the guidewire when the button is released. The spring force maintains constant gripping pressure without requiring manual adjustment, allowing the device to self-regulate and eliminate the need for two-handed operability to maintain secure grip during procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The device transitions from a static gripping mechanism to a dynamic one where the button can be depressed to release and released to secure the guidewire. This dynamic operation allows single-handed control while maintaining secure attachment, resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and device complexity.
2Reliability
If traditional torque devices are used, then gripping force is applied, but guidewire damage occurs due to inadequate gripping and over-tightening
Solution Approach 1:
The spring-loaded mechanism provides a controlled and consistent gripping force that prevents both inadequate gripping and over-tightening. The spring constant is designed to apply sufficient force to secure the guidewire reliably while maintaining force within safe limits to prevent kinking or damage, thus changing the force parameter to an optimal range.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring element acts as a cushioning mechanism that absorbs excess force and prevents over-tightening before it can damage the guidewire. The spring's elastic properties provide a built-in safety mechanism that limits maximum gripping force, protecting the guidewire from damage while ensuring adequate securement.
3Productivity
If traditional torque devices are used, then repositioning is required during procedures, but loss of time occurs due to repeated loosening and repositioning
Solution Approach 1:
The spring-loaded button mechanism maintains constant gripping pressure throughout the procedure, eliminating the need for repeated loosening and repositioning. The device automatically adapts to maintain secure attachment as the guidewire is advanced, allowing continuous single-handed operation and significantly reducing procedural time.
4Ease of operation
If traditional torque devices are used, then two-handed operability is required, but ease of operation deteriorates when navigating complex vascular structures
Solution Approach 1:
The dynamic button mechanism allows the practitioner to quickly transition between securing and releasing the guidewire with one hand, providing adaptability to complex procedural needs while maintaining ease of operation. The spring-loaded design responds dynamically to procedural requirements without requiring two-handed coordination.
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
Enables intuitive, one-handed operation of the torque device, reducing the risk of guidewire damage and procedural complexity, while allowing for effective manipulation of the guidewire during medical procedures.
Implementation Method 1
The resilient member biases the actuator from a first position in which the first and second portions of the lumen and second and third portions of the lumen are aligned, toward a second position in which the first and second portions of the lumen are misaligned
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3A~3B
Figure 4A~5
AI summary
A torque device for selectively gripping a medical guidewire. The device includes a housing, an actuator slidably mounted on the housing, and a resilient member biasing the actuator. A lumen dimensioned to receive the guidewire extends through the housing and actuator. The resilient member biases the actuator from a first position in which the lumen portions are aligned, toward a second position in which the lumen portions are misaligned. The actuator may include a catch that interferes with a stop of the housing to retain the actuator within the housing. The actuator may be oblong or otherwise shaped to maintain the lumen portions in substantial alignment in a longitudinal direction. Preferably, at least a portion of the lumen is teardrop-shaped in cross-section. The housing may include circumferentially or longitudinally extending ribs defining an outer grasping surface. Frusto-conical cavities may be defined at entry and exit ends of the lumen.