VAD Connector Cable Layout to Prevent Twisting and Misconnection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ventricular assist devices (VADs) face challenges with non-implanted power supplies that are cumbersome and prone to misconnection, twisting, and ingress of contaminants, which affect patient comfort and system reliability.
Innovation Solution
The development of connector assemblies with flat cross-section cables, symmetrical conductor arrangements, and latching mechanisms to ensure secure and reliable connections between external components and implanted devices, using magnetic or mechanical latching to prevent misorientation and contamination.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional round cables are used for power supply connection, then flexibility is maintained, but twisting occurs and connection reliability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by changing the cable cross-section from a traditional round shape to a flat shape with specific dimensional ratios (width-to-depth ratio between 2:1 and 10:1). This asymmetric flat geometry prevents the cable from twisting while maintaining flexibility, directly resolving the contradiction between connection reliability and patient comfort.
2Reliability
If non-symmetrical conductor arrangement is used, then manufacturing is simpler, but misconnection risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs asymmetry in the conductor arrangement within the flat cable, positioning conductors at specific locations (e.g., one conductor closer to the top surface than the bottom surface). This asymmetric positioning within the symmetric flat geometry prevents misconnection while maintaining manufacturing simplicity, resolving the contradiction between connection accuracy and ease of manufacture.
3Reliability
If open connector design is used, then assembly is easier, but contamination risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a flat cable structure that acts as a flexible barrier, and incorporates sealed connector designs where the flat cable geometry itself provides protection against contaminants. The flat structure enables easier sealing compared to traditional round cables, reducing contamination risk while managing connector structure complexity.
4Ease of operation
If traditional power supply components are used, then device complexity is lower, but mobility and comfort are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple external power supply components (battery, controller, cable) into a more integrated system. The flat cable design allows for cleaner integration between components, reducing the bulk and complexity of external components while improving patient mobility and comfort during daily activities.
Data Source
AI summary
Mechanical circulatory support systems that employ a connector cable for transmitting power and data are disclosed. A mechanical circulatory support system includes a ventricular cuff, a ventricular assist device, an external module, and a connector cable. The ventricular cuff is configured for attachment to a heart. The ventricular assist device is configured for attachment to the ventricular cuff and includes a housing, a rotor, a stator assembly, and control electronics. The external module includes an internal battery and is configured to power and control operation of the mechanical circulatory support system. Power and data are transmitted from the external module to the ventricular assist device over the connector cable. The connector cable includes two redundant pairs of electrical conductors.