Transmission Module Wire Locking and Sealing for Compact Implants
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Solution Overview
Problem
The increasing number of modules in implantable pulse generators for nerve stimulation leads to larger dimensions and connection failures due to external forces, affecting surgical outcomes and user experience.
Innovation Solution
A transmission module with an integral bracket, connecting members, and a locking member that securely holds multiple wires, preventing bending or pulling, and includes a sealing sleeve to maintain compact assembly and waterproofing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate flexible waterproof sealing rings are used to achieve isolation and sealing between modules, then sealing reliability is improved, but the assembly dimension increases as the number of modules increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple sealing functions into a single unified sealing structure rather than using separate sealing rings for each module. The sealing assembly combines waterproof sealing, isolation, and mechanical support functions into one integrated component that maintains sealing reliability while reducing overall assembly dimension.
Solution Approach 2:
The sealing assembly is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it provides waterproof sealing, electrical isolation between modules, mechanical support for wire connections, and structural alignment. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for multiple separate components, reducing assembly dimension while maintaining all necessary functions.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate modules are used for nerve stimulation, then stimulation functionality is improved, but the assembly dimension becomes larger affecting surgical outcome
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple stimulation modules into a single integrated transmission module assembly. The integral bracket structure houses multiple connecting members and wiring channels in a compact configuration, allowing multiple stimulation functions to be achieved within a reduced overall dimension suitable for surgical implantation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent optimizes the spatial arrangement of multiple modules by transitioning from a linear or distributed layout to a three-dimensional integrated structure. The integral bracket utilizes vertical and radial spacing to accommodate multiple connecting members and wires, achieving compact packaging that reduces the footprint while maintaining all stimulation functions.
3Ease of operation
If wires are subjected to external forces, then flexibility is improved, but the connection between wires and modules may fail
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a locking member that pre-secures wires to the integral bracket before external forces are applied. The locking structure creates mechanical interlocking and distribution of stress that prevents connection failure under external loading, while the wiring channels provide predetermined stress paths that maintain flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the wire management system into separate functional elements: wiring channels for flexible routing, connecting members for electrical connection, and a locking member for mechanical security. This segmentation allows each component to optimize its specific function while working together to provide both flexibility and connection reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
A transmission module includes a contact assembly including an integral bracket provided with spaced-apart partition-grooves and connecting members each disposed in one of the partition-grooves, first wires each electrically connected to one or more connecting members, an external tube, and a locking member. The integral bracket has an accommodation hole, and an extension member is inserted from the rear end of the transmission module into the accommodation hole. The external tube is sleeved outside the contact assembly. The locking member is sealingly connected to a second front end of the external tube. The locking member has a first through hole, first wires pass through the first through hole of the locking member and are drawn out from a first front end of the transmission module, and the locking member tightly holds the first wires. The partition-grooves are provided on the integral bracket and used for fixing the connecting members.