Tunneler Resilient Separation Prevention Device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Tunneler devices used for securing catheters during implantation procedures often detach during the tunneling process, increasing procedure duration and risking air introduction into the catheter.
Innovation Solution
A tunneler device with a resilient separation prevention device that deflects inwardly for easy insertion into the catheter lumen and biases outwardly to securely engage with the catheter, preventing detachment, featuring a cone-shaped design and threaded cap for secure attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a simple extension segment is used to engage the catheter, then the device structure remains simple, but detachment occurs during tunneling procedure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by transforming the connection mechanism from a simple passive extension segment to an active resilient separation prevention device that changes its physical state. The device transitions between a compressed low-profile state for insertion and an expanded state for secure engagement, dynamically adjusting its parameters to ensure reliable connection without permanent structural complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The resilient separation prevention device embodies dynamics by being movable between at least two positions: a compressed position during insertion that minimizes profile, and an expanded position during engagement that maximizes securement. This dynamic behavior allows the device to adapt to different operational phases, providing reliability only when needed while maintaining simplicity during insertion
2Reliability
If the connecting device is securely engaged to prevent detachment, then connection reliability improves, but insertion difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device utilizes dynamic transformation between compressed and expanded states to resolve the contradiction. During insertion, the resilient separation prevention device is compressed to a low profile, facilitating easy passage through the catheter lumen. Once inserted, it expands to engage the inner surface, providing secure connection. The dynamic state change enables both easy insertion and reliable engagement without compromise
Solution Approach 2:
The method applies preliminary action by compressing the resilient separation prevention device to a low-profile configuration before insertion. This preliminary preparation reduces the device's cross-sectional dimension, making insertion easier. After successful insertion, the device is released from compression and expands automatically to provide secure engagement, separating the insertion and engagement actions in time
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
The tunneler device effectively secures the catheter, reducing detachment risks and shortening procedure time by ensuring a stable connection throughout the tunneling process.
Implementation Method 1
a resilient separation prevention device supported on the connecting device and configured to be deflected inwardly towards the connecting device during insertion of the connecting device into the lumen of the catheter to facilitate insertion of the connecting device into the catheter and urged towards a non-deflected position in engagement with the lumen of the catheter to prevent separation of the tunneler device and the catheter
Data Source
AI summary
A tunneler device is provided which includes a handle, a shaft extending distally from the handle, a connecting device including a body supported on a distal end of the shaft configured to be received within a lumen of a catheter, and a resilient separation prevention device supported on the connecting device. The resilient separation prevention device is inwardly deflectable towards the connecting device upon insertion of the connection device into the lumen of the catheter and biased towards a non-deflected position in engagement with an inner surface of the catheter to prevent retraction of the connecting device from the catheter.