Ventricular Cuff Cannula Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current ventricular assist devices face challenges in securely attaching and locking cannulas to the heart, leading to potential disconnection and instability during operation.
Innovation Solution
A cuff system with a coupling mechanism and locking mechanism that includes a clamp and cam system, which secures the cannula in place through a series of detents and a sealing ring, preventing accidental disconnection and ensuring proper alignment with the heart.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a simple attachment mechanism is used, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to potential disconnection
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment mechanism is divided into distinct functional segments: a coupling mechanism with arms that can engage/disengage independently, and a separate locking mechanism with a cam that provides secure fixation. This segmentation allows the device to offer both easy operation for attachment/detachment and high reliability when locked, as each segment performs its specialized function optimally.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanism transitions from a static connection to a dynamic system with multiple states: an engaged state where the coupling arms hold the cannula, and a locked state where the cam mechanism provides rigid fixation. The ability to transition between these states allows the system to balance ease of operation during installation/removal with reliability during operation.
2Reliability
If a secure locking mechanism is added, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism and locking mechanism are merged into a single integrated assembly where the cam locking mechanism works in conjunction with the coupling arms. This merging allows both functions to be achieved within a compact structure, reducing overall device complexity compared to having separate independent mechanisms, while maintaining high reliability through the combined action of engagement and locking.
3Reliability
If a multi-component locking system is used, then reliability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling arms are designed to automatically engage with the cannula grooves during the attachment process, performing the preliminary action of securing the connection before the locking mechanism is activated. This preliminary engagement simplifies the overall operation, as the operator only needs to activate the cam mechanism to complete the secure locking, rather than having to manually position multiple components.
Data Source
AI summary
An implantable system includes a ventricular assist device and a cuff for attachment to a heart. The ventricular assist device includes an inlet cannula. The cuff defines an opening for insertion of the inlet cannula into the opening. The cuff includes an annular fastening member and an attachment member. The annular fastening member is configured to be sutured to heart tissue. The attachment member includes flexible extensions. Each of the flexible extensions is configured to interface with the inlet cannula during insertion of the inlet cannula into the opening so as to cause the flexible extension to flex outward to accommodate passing of the inlet cannula along the opening. Each of the flexible extensions is configured to interface with the inlet cannula to impede extraction of the inlet cannula from the opening.