U.S. patent application number 13/930787 was filed with the patent office on 2014-01-02 for side-loading connectors for use with intravascular devices and associated systems and methods.
The applicant listed for this patent is VOLCANO CORPORATION. Invention is credited to David H. Burkett, Joe Burnett, Mark Richardson.
Application Number | 20140005573 13/930787 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 49778841 |
Filed Date | 2014-01-02 |
United States Patent
Application |
20140005573 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Burkett; David H. ; et
al. |
January 2, 2014 |
Side-Loading Connectors for Use With Intravascular Devices and
Associated Systems and Methods
Abstract
Intravascular devices, systems, and methods are disclosed. In
some embodiments, side-loading electrical connectors for use with
intravascular devices are provided. The side-loading electrical
connector has at least one electrical contact configured to
interface with an electrical connector of the intravascular device.
A first connection piece of the side-loading electrical connector
is movable relative to a second connection piece between an open
position and a closed position, wherein in the open position an
elongated opening is formed between the first and second connection
pieces to facilitate insertion of the electrical connector between
the first and second connection pieces in a direction transverse to
a longitudinal axis of the intravascular device and wherein in the
closed position the at least one electrical contact is electrically
coupled to the at least one electrical connector received between
the first and second connection pieces.
Inventors: |
Burkett; David H.;
(Temecula, CA) ; Richardson; Mark; (Escondido,
CA) ; Burnett; Joe; (Carlsbad, CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
VOLCANO CORPORATION |
San Diego |
CA |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
49778841 |
Appl. No.: |
13/930787 |
Filed: |
June 28, 2013 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
61665706 |
Jun 28, 2012 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
600/585 ;
29/825 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61B 5/6851 20130101;
A61M 25/09 20130101; A61B 8/0891 20130101; Y10T 29/49117 20150115;
A61M 2025/09183 20130101; A61B 5/0066 20130101; A61B 5/0215
20130101; A61B 2562/227 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
600/585 ;
29/825 |
International
Class: |
A61M 25/09 20060101
A61M025/09 |
Claims
1. A guidewire, comprising: a flexible elongate member having a
proximal portion and a distal portion; a mounting structure
positioned within a flexible element coupled to the distal portion
of the flexible elongate member, the mounting structure configured
to have at least one sensing component mounted thereto; at least
one sensing component mounted to the mounting structure; a proximal
core fixedly attached to the mounting structure and extending
proximally from the mounting structure; wherein the flexible
elongate member and the flexible element each have an outer
diameter of 0.035'' or less.
2. The guidewire of claim 1, wherein the flexible element comprises
a ribbon coil.
3. The guidewire of claim 2, wherein the ribbon coil is embedded in
a polymer tubing, the polymer tubing having a thickness between
about 0.0005'' and about 0.003''.
4. The guidewire of claim 1, wherein the proximal core includes a
first section that is fixedly attached to the mounting structure
and a second section extending proximally from the first section,
wherein the first section is formed of a first material and the
second section is formed of a second material different than the
first material.
5. The guidewire of claim 4, wherein the proximal core further
includes a third section extending proximally from the second
section, wherein the third section is formed of a third material
different than the second material.
6. The guidewire of claim 5, wherein the third material is the same
as the first material.
7. The guidewire of claim 5, wherein the first material is a shape
memory alloy, the second material is stainless steel, and the third
material is a shape memory alloy.
8. The guidewire of claim 1, wherein the at least one sensing
component mounted to the mounting structure includes at least one
electronic component and wherein the guidewire further includes at
least one conductor having a proximal section and a distal section,
wherein the distal section of the at least one conductor is coupled
to the at least one electronic component and the proximal section
of the at least one conductor is coupled to at least one conductive
element, wherein the at least one conductor has a non-circular
cross-sectional profile.
9. The guidewire of claim 8, wherein the at least one conductor has
a rounded, rectangular cross-sectional profile.
10. The guidewire of claim 8, wherein the at least one conductor
consists of three conductors and the at least one conductive
element consists of three conductive elements.
11. The guidewire of claim 1, wherein the at least one conductive
element comprises a coil.
12. The guidewire of claim 11, wherein a wire forming the coil has
a rectangular cross-sectional profile.
13. The guidewire of claim 11, wherein a wire forming the coil has
a circular cross-sectional profile.
14. The guidewire of claim 11, wherein a wire forming the coil has
a semi-circular cross-sectional profile with a rounded portion of
the semi-circular cross-sectional profile extending outwardly.
15. The guidewire of claim 11, wherein a wire forming the coil has
a semi-circular cross-sectional profile with a rounded portion of
the semi-circular cross-sectional profile extending inwardly.
16. The guidewire of claim 11, wherein the proximal section of the
at least one conductor is soldered to an inner portion of the
coil.
17. The guidewire of claim 11, wherein the coil is at least
partially embedded within a polymer tubing.
18. The guidewire of claim 11, further comprising an insulating
layer positioned between the coil and a proximal portion of the
core.
19. A method of assembling a guidewire, comprising: providing a
polymer tubing having a conductive coil embedded therein; removing
a first portion of the polymer tubing to expose a first portion of
the conductive coil; electrically coupling a proximal portion of a
first conductor to the first portion of the conductive coil,
wherein a distal portion of the first conductor is coupled to at
least one sensing component.
20. The method of claim 19, wherein electrically coupling the
proximal portion of the first conductor to the first portion of the
conductive coil comprises soldering the first portion of the first
conductor to the first portion of the conductive coil.
21. The method of claim 19, wherein removing the first portion of
the polymer tubing comprises laser ablating the polymer.
22. The method of claim 21, wherein the polymer is ablated such
that the first portion of the conductive coil extends between about
0.0001'' and about 0.0005'' above the polymer.
23. The method of claim 19, further comprising: removing a second
portion of the polymer tubing to expose a second portion of the
conductive coil; and electrically coupling a proximal portion of a
second conductor to the second portion of the conductive coil,
wherein a distal portion of the second conductor is coupled to at
least one sensing component.
24. The method of claim 23, further comprising: electrically
isolating the first portion of the conductive coil from the second
portion of the conductive coil.
25. The method of claim 24, wherein electrically isolating the
first portion of the conductive coil from the second portion of the
conductive coil comprises forming an opening in a sidewall of the
polymer tubing that severs a portion of the conductive coil
positioned between the first and second portions of the conductive
coil.
26. The method of claim 19, further comprising: coupling the
polymer tubing to a proximal portion of an intravascular device.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] The present application claims priority to and the benefit
of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/665,706, filed Jun.
28, 2012, which is hereby incorporated by reference herein in its
entirety.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] The present disclosure relates to intravascular devices,
systems, and methods. In some embodiments, the intravascular
devices are guidewires that include one or more electronic
components.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Heart disease is very serious and often requires emergency
operations to save lives. A main cause of heart disease is the
accumulation of plaque inside the blood vessels, which eventually
occludes the blood vessels. Common treatment options available to
open up the occluded vessel include balloon angioplasty, rotational
atherectomy, and intravascular stents. Traditionally, surgeons have
relied on X-ray fluoroscopic images that are planar images showing
the external shape of the silhouette of the lumen of blood vessels
to guide treatment. Unfortunately, with X-ray fluoroscopic images,
there is a great deal of uncertainty about the exact extent and
orientation of the stenosis responsible for the occlusion, making
it difficult to find the exact location of the stenosis. In
addition, though it is known that restenosis can occur at the same
place, it is difficult to check the condition inside the vessels
after surgery with X-ray.
[0004] A currently accepted technique for assessing the severity of
a stenosis in a blood vessel, including ischemia causing lesions,
is fractional flow reserve (FFR). FFR is a calculation of the ratio
of a distal pressure measurement (taken on the distal side of the
stenosis) relative to a proximal pressure measurement (taken on the
proximal side of the stenosis). FFR provides an index of stenosis
severity that allows determination as to whether the blockage
limits blood flow within the vessel to an extent that treatment is
required. The normal value of FFR in a healthy vessel is 1.00,
while values less than about 0.80 are generally deemed significant
and require treatment.
[0005] Often intravascular catheters and guidewires are utilized to
measure the pressure within the blood vessel. To date, guidewires
containing pressure sensors or other electronic components have
suffered from reduced performance characteristics compared to
standard guidewires that do not contain electronic components. For
example, the handling performance of previous guidewires containing
electronic components have been hampered, in some instances, by the
limited space available for the core wire after accounting for the
space needed for the conductors or communication lines of the
electronic component(s), the stiffness of the rigid housing
containing the electronic component(s), and/or other limitations
associated with providing the functionality of the electronic
components in the limited space available within a guidewire.
Further, due to its small diameter, in many instances the proximal
connector portion of the guidewire (i.e., the connector(s) that
facilitate communication between the electronic component(s) of the
guidewire and an associated controller or processor) is fragile and
prone to kinking, which destroys the functionality of the
guidewire. Further still, many physicians complain about an
inability to reestablish a good connection between the proximal
connector and the guidewire even when the guidewire remains fully
functional. For these reasons, surgeons are reluctant to remove the
proximal connector from the guidewire during a procedure for fear
of breaking the guidewire or not having a good connection when
reattaching the proximal connector. However, having the guidewire
coupled to the proximal connector further limits the
maneuverability and handling of the guidewire.
[0006] Accordingly, there remains a need for improved connectors
for use with intravascular devices (e.g., catheters and guidewires)
that include one or more electronic components.
SUMMARY
[0007] Embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to
intravascular devices, systems, and methods.
[0008] In one embodiment, an intravascular system is provided. The
system includes an intravascular device having a flexible elongate
member having a proximal portion and a distal portion, at least one
electronic component secured to the distal portion of the flexible
elongate member, and at least one electrical connector secured to
the proximal portion of the flexible elongate member, wherein the
at least one electrical connector is electrically coupled to the at
least one electronic component secured to the distal portion of the
flexible elongate member. The system also includes a connector
having at least one electrical contact configured to interface with
the at least one electrical connector of the intravascular device.
The connector includes a first connection piece and a second
connection piece, wherein the first connection piece is movable
relative to the second connection piece between an open position
and a closed position. In the open position, an elongated opening
is formed between the first and second connection pieces to
facilitate insertion of the at least one electrical connector
between the first and second connection pieces in a direction
transverse to a longitudinal axis of the intravascular device. In
the closed position, the at least one electrical contact is
electrically coupled to the at least one electrical connector
received between the first and second connection pieces.
[0009] In some embodiments, the first connection piece is movable
relative to the second piece about a pivot axis. In some
embodiments, the first connection piece is translatable relative to
the second connection piece. Further, in some instances a bias
element, such as a spring, urges the first and second connection
pieces towards the closed position. In some arrangements, the
second connection piece includes a recess sized and shaped to
receive a portion of the intravascular device that includes the at
least one electrical connector. In some embodiments, the first
piece includes at least one visual indicator for aligning the at
least one electrical contact of the connector with the at least one
electrical connector of the intravascular device. The visual
indicator is a light in some instances. In some particular
instances, the light is configured to illuminate when a proper
electrical coupling is achieved between the at least one electrical
contact and the at least one electrical connector. In other
instances, the light is configured to illuminate a first color when
a proper electrical coupling is achieved between the at least one
electrical contact and the at least one electrical connector and
configured to illuminate a second color when the proper electrical
coupling between the at least one electrical contact and the at
least one electrical connector is not achieved.
[0010] In another embodiment, a method is provided. The method
includes providing a connector having at least one electrical
contact; moving the connector to an open position such an elongated
opening is defined between a first component of the connector and a
second component of the connector; inserting a connection portion
of an intravascular device into the elongated opening and between
the first and second components of the connector by moving the
intravascular device in a direction transverse to a longitudinal
axis of the intravascular device; and moving the connector to a
closed position to electrically couple the at least one electrical
contact of the connector to at least one electrical connector of
the connection portion of the intravascular device positioned
between the first and second components of the connector. In some
instances, the at least one electrical connector is electrically
connected to an electronic component positioned at a distal portion
of the intravascular device such that the at least one electrical
contact is electrically coupled to the electronic component when
the at least one electrical contact is electrically coupled to the
at least one electrical connector of the connection portion of the
intravascular device. In some instances, the electronic component
is a pressure sensing component. In some instances, the electronic
component is an intravascular imaging component. For example, the
intravascular imaging component may include one or more ultrasound
transducer(s) and/or optical coherence tomography (OCT) imaging
element(s). In some embodiments, the method also includes aligning
at least one visual marker of the connector with the at least one
electrical connector of the connection portion of the intravascular
device.
[0011] In yet another embodiment, a connector for an intravascular
system is provided. The connector includes a first connection piece
and a second connection piece movably coupled to the first
connection piece and having at least one electrical contact secured
thereto. The second connection piece is movable relative to the
first connection piece between an open position and a closed
position, wherein in the open position an elongated opening is
formed between the first and second connection pieces to facilitate
insertion of a connection portion of an intravascular device
between the first and second connection pieces in a direction
transverse to a longitudinal axis of the intravascular device and
wherein in the closed position the at least one electrical contact
is electrically coupled to the connection portion of the
intravascular device received between the first and second
connection pieces.
[0012] Additional aspects, features, and advantages of the present
disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed
description.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0013] Illustrative embodiments of the present disclosure will be
described with reference to the accompanying drawings, of
which:
[0014] FIG. 1 is a diagrammatic perspective view of an
intravascular system according to an embodiment of the present
disclosure.
[0015] FIG. 2 is a diagrammatic side view of an intravascular
device of the intravascular system of FIG. 1 according to an
embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0016] FIG. 3 is a diagrammatic side view of an intravascular
device of the intravascular system of FIG. 1 similar to that of
FIG. 2, but illustrating another embodiment of the present
disclosure.
[0017] FIG. 4 is a diagrammatic side view of a proximal connector
portion of an intravascular device according to an embodiment of
the present disclosure.
[0018] FIG. 5 is a diagrammatic perspective view of a connector of
the intravascular system of FIG. 1 according to an embodiment of
the present disclosure.
[0019] FIG. 6 is a diagrammatic top view of the connector of FIG.
5.
[0020] FIG. 7 is a diagrammatic bottom view of the connector of
FIGS. 5 and 6.
[0021] FIG. 8 is a diagrammatic side view of the connector of FIGS.
5-7.
[0022] FIG. 9 is a diagrammatic side view of the connector of FIGS.
5-8 similar to that of FIG. 8, but from the opposite side of the
connector.
[0023] FIG. 10 is a diagrammatic rear view of the connector of
FIGS. 5-9.
[0024] FIG. 11 is a diagrammatic perspective front view of the
connector of FIGS. 5-10 shown in an open position and receiving an
intravascular device according to an embodiment of the present
disclosure.
[0025] FIG. 12 is a diagrammatic side view of the connector of
FIGS. 5-11 in the open position and receiving the intravascular
device.
[0026] FIG. 13 is a diagrammatic perspective view of a connector of
the intravascular system of FIG. 1 according to another embodiment
of the present disclosure.
[0027] FIG. 14 is a diagrammatic top view of the connector of FIG.
13.
[0028] FIG. 15 is a diagrammatic perspective front view of a
connector of the intravascular system of FIG. 1 according to yet
another embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0029] FIG. 16 is a diagrammatic perspective rear view of the
connector of FIG. 15.
[0030] FIG. 17 is a diagrammatic perspective rear view of the
connector similar to that of FIG. 16, but with inner components of
the connector illustrated.
[0031] FIG. 18 is a diagrammatic top view of the connector of FIGS.
15-17.
[0032] FIG. 19 is a diagrammatic top view of the connector similar
to that of FIG. 18, but with the inner components of the connector
illustrated.
[0033] FIG. 20 is a diagrammatic bottom view of the connector of
FIGS. 15-19.
[0034] FIG. 21 is a diagrammatic bottom view of the connector
similar to that of FIG. 20, but with the inner components of the
connector illustrated.
[0035] FIG. 22 is a diagrammatic side view of the connector of
FIGS. 15-21.
[0036] FIG. 23 is a diagrammatic side view of the connector similar
to that of FIG. 22, but with inner components of the connector
illustrated.
[0037] FIG. 24 is a diagrammatic side view of the connector of
FIGS. 15-23 similar to that of FIG. 22, but from the opposite side
of the connector.
[0038] FIG. 25 is a diagrammatic side view of the connector similar
to that of FIG. 24, but with inner components of the connector
illustrated.
[0039] FIG. 26 is a diagrammatic rear view of the connector of
FIGS. 15-25.
[0040] FIG. 27 is a diagrammatic front view of the connector of
FIGS. 15-26.
[0041] FIG. 28 is a diagrammatic perspective front view of the
connector of FIGS. 15-27 shown in an open position and receiving an
intravascular device according to an embodiment of the present
disclosure.
[0042] FIG. 29 is a diagrammatic side view of the connector of
FIGS. 15-28 in the open position and receiving the intravascular
device.
[0043] FIG. 30 is a diagrammatic perspective front view of the
connector of FIGS. 15-29 shown in a closed position and receiving
an intravascular device according to an embodiment of the present
disclosure.
[0044] FIG. 31 is a diagrammatic side view of the connector of
FIGS. 15-31 in the closed position and receiving the intravascular
device.
[0045] FIG. 32 is a diagrammatic perspective front view of a
connector of the intravascular system of FIG. 1 according to yet
another embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0046] FIG. 33 is a diagrammatic perspective rear view of the
connector of FIG. 32.
[0047] FIG. 34 is a diagrammatic top view of the connector of FIGS.
32 and 33.
[0048] FIG. 35 is a diagrammatic top view of the connector similar
to that of FIG. 34, but with the inner components of the connector
illustrated.
[0049] FIG. 36 is a diagrammatic bottom view of the connector of
FIGS. 32-35.
[0050] FIG. 37 is a diagrammatic bottom view of the connector
similar to that of FIG. 36, but with the inner components of the
connector illustrated.
[0051] FIG. 38 is a diagrammatic side view of the connector of
FIGS. 32-37.
[0052] FIG. 39 is a diagrammatic side view of the connector similar
to that of FIG. 38, but with inner components of the connector
illustrated.
[0053] FIG. 40 is a diagrammatic side view of the connector of
FIGS. 32-39 similar to that of FIG. 38, but from the opposite side
of the connector.
[0054] FIG. 41 is a diagrammatic side view of the connector similar
to that of FIG. 40, but with inner components of the connector
illustrated.
[0055] FIG. 42 is a diagrammatic rear view of the connector of
FIGS. 32-41.
[0056] FIG. 43 is a diagrammatic rear view of the connector similar
to that of FIG. 42, but with inner components of the connector
illustrated.
[0057] FIG. 44 is a diagrammatic top view of the connector of FIGS.
32-43 shown in an open position and receiving an intravascular
device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0058] FIG. 45 is a diagrammatic side view of the connector of
FIGS. 32-44 in the open position and receiving the intravascular
device.
[0059] FIG. 46 is a diagrammatic perspective front view of the
connector of FIGS. 32-45 shown in a closed position and receiving
an intravascular device according to an embodiment of the present
disclosure.
[0060] FIG. 47 is a diagrammatic side view of the connector of
FIGS. 32-46 in the closed position and receiving the intravascular
device.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0061] For the purposes of promoting an understanding of the
principles of the present disclosure, reference will now be made to
the embodiments illustrated in the drawings, and specific language
will be used to describe the same. It is nevertheless understood
that no limitation to the scope of the disclosure is intended. Any
alterations and further modifications to the described devices,
systems, and methods, and any further application of the principles
of the present disclosure are fully contemplated and included
within the present disclosure as would normally occur to one
skilled in the art to which the disclosure relates. In particular,
it is fully contemplated that the features, components, and/or
steps described with respect to one embodiment may be combined with
the features, components, and/or steps described with respect to
other embodiments of the present disclosure. For the sake of
brevity, however, the numerous iterations of these combinations
will not be described separately.
[0062] As used herein, "flexible elongate member" or "elongate
flexible member" includes at least any thin, long, flexible
structure that can be inserted into the vasculature of a patient.
While the illustrated embodiments of the "flexible elongate
members" of the present disclosure have a cylindrical profile with
a circular cross-sectional profile that defines an outer diameter
of the flexible elongate member, in other instances all or a
portion of the flexible elongate members may have other geometric
cross-sectional profiles (e.g., oval, rectangular, square,
elliptical, etc.) or non-geometric cross-sectional profiles.
Flexible elongate members include, for example, intravascular
catheters and intravascular guidewires. In that regard,
intravascular catheters may or may not include a lumen extending
along its length for receiving and/or guiding other instruments. If
the intravascular catheter includes a lumen, the lumen may be
centered or offset with respect to the cross-sectional profile of
the device.
[0063] In most embodiments, the flexible elongate members of the
present disclosure include one or more electronic, optical, or
electro-optical components. For example, without limitation, a
flexible elongate member may include one or more of the following
types of components: a pressure sensor, a temperature sensor, an
imaging element, an optical fiber, an ultrasound transducer, a
reflector, a minor, a prism, an ablation element, an rf electrode,
a conductor, and/or combinations thereof. Generally, these
components are configured to obtain data related to a vessel or
other portion of the anatomy in which the flexible elongate member
is disposed. Often the components are also configured to
communicate the data to an external device for processing and/or
display. In some aspects, embodiments of the present disclosure
include imaging devices for imaging within the lumen of a vessel,
including both medical and non-medical applications. However, some
embodiments of the present disclosure are particularly suited for
use in the context of human vasculature. Imaging of the
intravascular space, particularly the interior walls of human
vasculature can be accomplished by a number of different
techniques, including ultrasound (often referred to as
intravascular ultrasound ("IVUS") and intracardiac echocardiography
("ICE")) and optical coherence tomography ("OCT"). In other
instances, infrared, thermal, or other imaging modalities are
utilized. Further, in some instances the flexible elongate member
includes multiple electronic, optical, and/or electro-optical
components (e.g., pressure sensors, temperature sensors, imaging
elements, optical fibers, ultrasound transducers, reflectors,
mirrors, prisms, ablation elements, rf electrodes, conductors,
etc.).
[0064] The electronic, optical, and/or electro-optical components
of the present disclosure are often disposed within a distal
portion of the flexible elongate member. As used herein, "distal
portion" of the flexible elongate member includes any portion of
the flexible elongate member from the mid-point to the distal tip.
As flexible elongate members can be solid, some embodiments of the
present disclosure will include a housing portion at the distal
portion for receiving the electronic components. Such housing
portions can be tubular structures attached to the distal portion
of the elongate member. Some flexible elongate members are tubular
and have one or more lumens in which the electronic components can
be positioned within the distal portion.
[0065] The electronic, optical, and/or electro-optical components
and the associated communication lines are sized and shaped to
allow for the diameter of the flexible elongate member to be very
small. For example, the outside diameter of the elongate member,
such as a guidewire or catheter, containing one or more electronic,
optical, and/or electro-optical components as described herein are
between about 0.0007'' (0.0178 mm) and about 0.118'' (3.0 mm), with
some particular embodiments having outer diameters of approximately
0.014'' (0.3556 mm) and approximately 0.018'' (0.4572 mm)). As
such, the flexible elongate members incorporating the electronic,
optical, and/or electro-optical component(s) of the present
application are suitable for use in a wide variety of lumens within
a human patient besides those that are part or immediately surround
the heart, including veins and arteries of the extremities, renal
arteries, blood vessels in and around the brain, and other
lumens.
[0066] "Connected" and variations thereof as used herein includes
direct connections, such as being glued or otherwise fastened
directly to, on, within, etc. another element, as well as indirect
connections where one or more elements are disposed between the
connected elements.
[0067] "Secured" and variations thereof as used herein includes
methods by which an element is directly secured to another element,
such as being glued or otherwise fastened directly to, on, within,
etc. another element, as well as indirect techniques of securing
two elements together where one or more elements are disposed
between the secured elements.
[0068] Referring now to FIG. 1, shown therein is an intravascular
system 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In
that regard, the intravascular system includes an intravascular
device 102 and a connector 104. Referring now to FIG. 2, a side
view of the intravascular device 102 is provided. As shown, the
intravascular device 102 includes a flexible elongate member 106
having a distal portion 107 adjacent a distal end 108 and a
proximal portion 109 adjacent a proximal end 110. A component 112
is positioned within the distal portion 107 of the flexible
elongate member 106 proximal of the distal tip 108. Generally, the
component 112 is representative of one or more electronic, optical,
or electro-optical components. In that regard, the component 112 is
a pressure sensor, a temperature sensor, an imaging element, an
optical fiber, an ultrasound transducer, a reflector, a mirror, a
prism, an ablation element, an rf electrode, a conductor, and/or
combinations thereof. The specific type of component or combination
of components can be selected based on an intended use of the
intravascular device. In some instances, the component 112 is
positioned less than 10 cm, less than 5, or less than 3 cm from the
distal tip 108. In some instances, the component 112 is positioned
within a housing of the intravascular device 102. In that regard,
the housing is a separate component secured to the flexible
elongate member 106 in some instances. In other instances, the
housing is integrally formed as a part of the flexible elongate
member 106.
[0069] The intravascular device 102 also includes a connection
portion 114 adjacent the proximal portion 109 of the device. In
that regard, the connection portion 114 is spaced from the proximal
end 110 of the flexible elongate member 106 by a distance 116.
Generally, the distance 116 is between 0% and 50% of the total
length of the flexible elongate member 106. While the total length
of the flexible elongate member can be any length, in some
embodiments the total length is between about 1300 mm and about
4000 mm, with some specific embodiments have a length of 1400 mm,
1900 mm, and 3000 mm. Accordingly, in some instances the connection
portion 114 is positioned at the proximal end 110. In that regard,
FIG. 3 illustrates an embodiment of an intravascular device 120
where the connection portion 114 is positioned at the proximal end
110. In other instances, the connection portion 114 is spaced from
the proximal end 110. For example, in some instances the connection
portion 114 is spaced from the proximal end 110 between about 0 mm
and about 1400 mm. In some specific embodiments, the connection
portion 114 is spaced from the proximal end by a distance of 0 mm,
300 mm, and 1400 mm.
[0070] The connection portion 114 is configured to facilitate
communication between the intravascular device 102, 120 and another
device. More specifically, in some embodiments the connection
portion 114 is configured to facilitate communication of data
obtained by the component 112 to another device, such as a
computing device or processor. Accordingly, in some embodiments the
connection portion 114 is an electrical connector. In such
instances, the connection portion 114 is configured to provide an
electrical connection to one or more electrical conductors that
extend along the length of the flexible elongate member 102 and are
electrically coupled to the component 112. In some instances, the
connection portion 114 includes one or more electrical connectors
as described in U.S. Patent Application No. 61/665,697, titled
"INTRAVASCULAR DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS," filed Jun. 28, 2012,
which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. In other
embodiments, the connection portion 114 includes an optical
connector. In such instances, the connection portion 114 provides
an optical connection to one or more optical communication pathways
(e.g., fiber optic cable) that extend along the length of the
flexible elongate member 106 and are optically coupled to the
component 112. Further, in some embodiments the connection portion
114 provides both electrical and optical connections to both
electrical conductor(s) and optical communication pathway(s)
coupled to the component 112. In that regard, it should again be
noted that component 112 is comprised of a plurality of elements in
some instances. In some instances, the connection portion 114 is
configured to provide a physical connection to another device,
either directly or indirectly. In other instances, the connection
portion 114 is configured to facilitate wireless communication
between the intravascular device 102 and another device. Generally,
any current or future developed wireless protocol(s) may be
utilized. In yet other instances, the connection portion 114
facilitates both physical and wireless connection to another
device.
[0071] As noted above, in some instances the connection portion 114
provides a connection between the component 112 of the
intravascular device 102, 120 and an external device. Accordingly,
in some embodiments one or more electrical conductors, one or more
optical pathways, and/or combinations thereof extend along the
length of the flexible elongate member 106 between the connection
portion 114 and the component 112 to facilitate communication
between the connection portion 114 and the component 112.
Generally, any number of electrical conductors, optical pathways,
and/or combinations thereof can extend along the length of the
flexible elongate member 106 between the connection portion 114 and
the component 112. In some instances, between one and ten
electrical conductors and/or optical pathways extend along the
length of the flexible elongate member 106 between the connection
portion 114 and the component 112. For the sake of clarity and
simplicity, the embodiments of the present disclosure described
below include three electrical conductors and, therefore, the
connection portion 114 is described as having three separate
electrical connections corresponding to the three electrical
conductors.
[0072] For example, as shown in FIG. 4, in some instances the
connection portion 114 includes conductive portions 122, 124, and
126 that are separated from one another and the main body of the
flexible elongate member 106 by insulating portions 128, 130, 132,
and 134. In that regard, the conductive portions 122, 124, and 126
are formed of a conductive material and are portions of a hypotube,
a coil, and/or combinations thereof in some instances. It is
understood that the total number of communication pathways and/or
the number of electrical conductors and/or optical pathways is
different in other embodiments and, therefore, the number of
conductive portions (or optical connectors) included in connection
portion is different as well. More specifically, the number of
communication pathways and the number of electrical conductors and
optical pathways extending along the length of the flexible
elongate member 106 is determined by the desired functionality of
the component 112 and the corresponding elements that define
component 112 to provide such functionality. As a result, the
number and type of connections provided by connection portion 114
are likewise determined by the desired functionality of the
component 112, the corresponding elements that define component 112
to provide such functionality, and the communication needs for such
elements.
[0073] Referring now to FIGS. 5-12, shown therein are additional
details of the connector 104. In that regard, FIG. 5 is a
diagrammatic perspective view of the connector 104; FIG. 6 is a
diagrammatic top view of the connector 104; FIG. 7 is a
diagrammatic bottom view of the connector 104; FIG. 8 is a
diagrammatic side view of the connector 104 from a first side; FIG.
9 is a diagrammatic side view of the connector 104 from a second
side opposite the first side; FIG. 10 is a diagrammatic rear view
of the connector 104; FIG. 11 is a diagrammatic perspective front
view of the connector 104 shown in an open position and receiving
the intravascular device 102; and FIG. 12 is a diagrammatic side
view of the connector 104 and the intravascular device 102 in the
arrangement of FIG. 11.
[0074] Connector 104 is configured to interface with the connection
portion 114 of the intravascular device 102 to facilitate
communication between the intravascular device 102 and a separate
component, such as a processing system. In particular, the
connector 104 is configured to facilitate communication between one
or more electronic components of the intravascular device 102 that
are electrically coupled to the connection portion 114 and a
separate component, such as a processing system associated with the
one or more electronic components. As shown in FIG. 5, the
connector 104 includes an upper connection piece 140 and a lower
connection piece 142. In the illustrated embodiment, the upper
connection piece 140 is movable with respect to the lower
connection piece 142 about a pivot pin 144. In some instances, the
pivot pin 144 is fixedly secured to the lower connection piece 142.
Further, the pivot pin 144 extends through a portion of the upper
connection piece 140 and/or engages a structural feature of the
upper connection piece (e.g., recess(es), clamp(s), snap-fit
element(s), projection(s), etc.) to ensure that the upper
connection piece 140 pivots about the pivot pin 144. In some
embodiments, the upper connection piece 140 is biased towards
either an open position (for receiving the connection portion 114
of the intravascular device 102) or closed position (for
electrically coupling to the connection portion 114 of the
intravascular device 102) by a bias element. For example, in some
instances the bias element is configured to bias the connection
piece 140 towards a closed position such that a user can release
the connector 104 after insertion of the intravascular device and
the bias element will maintain the connector 104 in electrical
contact with the connection portion 114 of the intravascular
device. In some instances, the bias element is a spring. In some
particular instances, at least a portion of the spring is wrapped
around the pivot pin 144. In that regard, the pivoting motion of
the upper connection piece 140 relative to the lower connection
piece 142, and the structural arrangements to facilitate such
motion, operates in a manner to a clothes pin or a chip clip.
[0075] As noted above, the connector 104 is configured to interface
with the connection portion 114 of the intravascular device 102 to
facilitate communication between the intravascular device 102 and a
separate component, and, in particular, the connector 104 is
configured to facilitate communication between one or more
electronic components of the intravascular device 102 (that are
electrically coupled to the connection portion 114) and a separate
component, such as a processing system associated with the one or
more electronic components. To that end, the connector 104 includes
a communication cable 146 extending therefrom. The communication
cable 146 is configured to carry signals between the connector 104
and the separate component. In the illustrated embodiment, the
cable 146 is configured to carry electrical signals and includes
one or more electrical conductors extending along its length to
facilitate such electrical communication. However, the type of
communication cable utilized is dependent on the type of
electronic, optical, and/or electro-optical components that are
incorporated into the intravascular device 102. In that regard, the
communication cable 146 may include one or more of an electrical
conductor, an optical fiber, and/or combinations thereof. In some
instances, the cable 146 is configured to be plugged into an
interface of a processing system. In that regard, the interface is
a patient interface module (PIM) in some instances.
[0076] As shown in FIG. 6, for example, the cable 146 extends
through an opening on the back side of the lower connection piece
142. The upper connection piece 140 includes a projection or
protrusion 148 in its upper surface that defines a corresponding
recess or opening thereunder for receiving at least a portion of
the cable 146. In that regard, in some instances one or more
electrical conductors of the cable 146 are positioned within the
recess or opening defined by the protrusion 148. Further, the one
or more electrical conductors of the cable 146 are electrically
coupled to one or more electrical contacts associated with the
connector 104. In that regard, in some embodiments the electrical
contacts are fixedly secured to the upper connection piece 140. In
some such instances, the one or more electrical conductors of the
cable 146 are soldered to the electrical contacts of the upper
connection piece. However, in other embodiments, the electrical
contacts are fixedly secured to the lower connection piece 142. In
some instances, gold plated copper alloy contacts are utilized.
However, it is understood that any suitable electrical contacts can
be utilized by the connector 104.
[0077] In some instances, the cable 146 is replaced with a wireless
connection (e.g., a wireless antenna). In that regard, it is
understood that various communication pathways between the
connector 104 and another component of the intravascular system may
be utilized, including physical connections (including electrical,
optical, and/or fluid connections), wireless connections, and/or
combinations thereof.
[0078] As shown in FIGS. 5, 8, 9, 11, and 12, the lower connection
piece 142 includes a recess 150 that is sized and shaped to receive
the intravascular device 102 therein. In particular, the recess 150
is sized and shaped to receive the connection portion 114 of the
intravascular device 102. In that regard, the width of the recess
150 is typically sized to be slightly larger than the diameter of
the connection portion 114 of the intravascular device 102. The
recess 150 helps to maintain the connection portion 114 of the
intravascular device 102 in position within the connector 104. To
help ensure that the connection portion 114 of the intravascular
device 102 is properly aligned with the electrical contacts of the
connector 104, the upper connection piece 140 includes visual
markers 152, 154, and 156 that provide an indication of the
location of the electrical contacts and, therefore, where the
electrical contacts or connectors of the connection portion 114 of
the intravascular device 102 should be aligned. For example, as
shown in FIG. 11, the visual markers 152, 154, and 156 are
configured to be aligned with the conductive portions 122, 124, and
126, respectively, of connection portion 114 to facilitate
connection of the connector 104 to the intravascular device
102.
[0079] In the illustrated embodiment, the visual markers 152, 154,
and 156 are arrows. However, it is understood that any type of
visual markers may be utilized including, without limitation,
projections, recesses, colors, shapes, and/or combinations thereof.
In that regard, in some embodiments the visual markers are
color-coded to match correspondingly colored visual markers
associated with the electrical contacts or connectors of the
intravascular device 102. Further, as discussed below with respect
to FIGS. 13 and 14, in some embodiments of the present disclosure
the connector 104 includes an active element to provide an
indication of whether a proper connection between the connector and
the connection portion 114 of the intravascular device 102 has been
achieved. The active element may provide a visual signal, an
audible signal, and/or combinations thereof representing a
connection between the connector 104 and the connection portion
114. For example, in some instances a first indicator (e.g., a
first color, symbol, sound, combinations thereof, etc.) is
associated with no connection or an improper connection, while a
second indicator (e.g., a second color, symbol, sound, combinations
thereof, etc.) is associated with a proper electrical connection.
It is understood that the two indicators simply need to be
distinguishable from one another. Accordingly, in some instances,
one of the indicators provides no indication at all (i.e., a null
or zero value indicator). Generally, any combination of
distinguishable indicators may be used. Further, in some instances,
the active element may have intermediate indicator positions
indicating partial connection(s) between the connector 104 and the
connection portion 114. In one particular example, the active
element has a first indicator (e.g., a first color (e.g., red),
symbol, sound, combinations thereof, etc.) when no connection is
made, a second indicator (e.g., a second color (e.g., yellow),
symbol, sound, combinations thereof, etc.) when a partial
connection is made, and a third indicator (e.g., a third color
(e.g., green), symbol, sound, combinations thereof, etc.) when a
full connection is made. Above, the active element has been
described as being applicable to the overall connection between the
connector 104 and the connection portion 114. However, in other
embodiments, an active element is provided for each connection
between a conductor of the connector 104 and a conductor of the
connection portion 114. Further still, in some embodiments at least
some portions of the connector 104 are formed of a clear or
translucent material that allows visual verification that the
contacts of the connector 104 are aligned with the contacts of
intravascular device 102.
[0080] The connector 104 is configured to receive the intravascular
device 102 in a side-loading fashion. More specifically, the
connector 104 is configured to receive the connection portion 114
of the intravascular device 102 in a direction that is transverse
to the longitudinal axis of the intravascular device. For example,
referring more specifically to FIGS. 11 and 12, connector 104 is
configured to receive the connection portion 114 in the direction
of arrow 160 that extends transverse or perpendicular to the
longitudinal axis 162 of the intravascular device 102. In that
regard, upper connection piece 140 and lower connection piece 142
are shown in an open position such that an elongated opening 164 is
formed between the upper and lower connection pieces 140, 142 to
facilitate insertion of the connection portion 114 between the
upper and lower connection pieces in a direction 160 transverse to
the longitudinal axis 162 of the intravascular device 102. In that
regard, the opening 164 provides access to the recess 150 in the
lower connection piece 142 that is configured to receive the
intravascular device 102 such that the intravascular device 102 can
be inserted into opening 164 in the direction 160 transverse to the
longitudinal axis 162 of the intravascular device 102 and seated
within the recess 150. With the intravascular device 102 positioned
between the upper and lower connection pieces 140, 142, the upper
and lower connection pieces are moved from the open position to a
closed position. In the closed position, the intravascular device
102 is held between the upper and lower connection pieces 140, 142
such that the connector 104 is in electrical communication with the
connection portion 114. In that regard, the upper connection pieces
140, 142 are biased towards the closed position by a bias element
in some instances. Further, in some instances the connector 104
includes a locking element for securing the upper and lower
connection pieces 140, 142 in the closed position. Generally, any
type of mechanical locking mechanism may be used. In that regard,
in some instances a locking mechanism is utilized to secure the
connector 104 to the open position.
[0081] To load the intravascular device 102 within the connector
104 the connector 104 may be moved relative to the intravascular
device 102, the intravascular device 102 may be moved relative to
the connector 104, and/or combinations thereof. The side-loading
functionality of the connector 104 provides easy electrical
coupling and releasing of the connector 104 to the intravascular
device 102. Also, the side-loading approach is less likely to lead
to kinking or unwanted bending of the connection portion 114 that
causes unwanted structural damage to the intravascular device 102.
Further, when the connection portion 114 is spaced from the
proximal end of the intravascular device 102, there is no need to
feed the proximal end of the intravascular device through the
connector 104 to electrically couple the connector to the
intravascular device. As a result of these advantages, surgical
procedures are improved from both a workflow standpoint as well as
a quality of service standpoint, as users are more inclined to
decouple the connector 104 from the intravascular device 102 when
advancing the intravascular device within a patient, which provides
better control of the intravascular device.
[0082] Referring now to FIGS. 13 and 14, shown therein is a
connector 170 according to another embodiment of the present
disclosure. In that regard, connector 170 includes some features
similar to connector 104 described above. However, connector 170
includes an active element for indicating a connection state of the
connector 170. Connector 170 is configured to interface with the
connection portion 114 of the intravascular device 102 to
facilitate communication between the intravascular device 102 and a
separate component, such as a processing system. In particular, the
connector 170 is configured to facilitate communication between one
or more electronic components of the intravascular device 102 that
are electrically coupled to the connection portion 114 and a
separate component, such as a processing system associated with the
one or more electronic components. As shown in FIG. 13, the
connector 170 includes an upper connection piece 180 and a lower
connection piece 182. In the illustrated embodiment, the upper
connection piece 180 is movable with respect to the lower
connection piece 182 about a pivot pin 184. In some instances, the
pivot pin 184 is fixedly secured to the lower connection piece 182.
Further, the pivot pin 184 extends through a portion of the upper
connection piece 180 and/or engages a structural feature of the
upper connection piece (e.g., recess(es), clamp(s), snap-fit
element(s), projection(s), etc.) to ensure that the upper
connection piece 180 pivots about the pivot pin 184.
[0083] In some embodiments, the upper connection piece 180 is
biased towards either an open position (for receiving the
connection portion 114 of the intravascular device 102) or closed
position (for electrically coupling to the connection portion 114
of the intravascular device 102) by a bias element. For example, in
some instances the bias element is configured to bias the
connection piece 180 towards a closed position such that a user can
release the connector 170 after insertion of the intravascular
device and the bias element will maintain the connector 170 in
electrical contact with the connection portion 114 of the
intravascular device. In some instances, the bias element is a
spring. In some particular instances, at least a portion of the
spring is wrapped around the pivot pin 184. In that regard, the
pivoting motion of the upper connection piece 180 relative to the
lower connection piece 182, and the structural arrangements to
facilitate such motion, operates in a manner to a clothes pin or a
chip clip.
[0084] As noted above, the connector 170 is configured to interface
with the connection portion 114 of the intravascular device 102 to
facilitate communication between the intravascular device 102 and a
separate component, and, in particular, the connector 104 is
configured to facilitate communication between one or more
electronic components of the intravascular device 102 (that are
electrically coupled to the connection portion 114) and a separate
component, such as a processing system associated with the one or
more electronic components. To that end, the connector 170 includes
a communication cable 186 extending therefrom. The communication
cable 186 is configured to carry signals between the connector 170
and the separate component. In the illustrated embodiment, the
cable 186 is configured to carry electrical signals and includes
one or more electrical conductors extending along its length to
facilitate such electrical communication. However, the type of
communication cable utilized is dependent on the type of
electronic, optical, and/or electro-optical components that are
incorporated into the intravascular device 102. In that regard, the
communication cable 186 may include one or more of an electrical
conductor, an optical fiber, and/or combinations thereof. In some
instances, the cable 186 is configured to be plugged into an
interface of a processing system. In that regard, the interface is
a patient interface module (PIM) in some instances.
[0085] As shown in FIG. 14, for example, the cable 186 extends
through an opening on the back side of the lower connection piece
182. The upper connection piece 180 includes a projection or
protrusion 188 in its upper surface that defines a corresponding
recess or opening thereunder for receiving at least a portion of
the cable 186. In that regard, in some instances one or more
electrical conductors of the cable 186 are positioned within the
recess or opening defined by the protrusion 188. Further, the one
or more electrical conductors of the cable 186 are electrically
coupled to one or more electrical contacts associated with the
connector 170. In that regard, in some embodiments the electrical
contacts are fixedly secured to the upper connection piece 180. In
some such instances, the one or more electrical conductors of the
cable 186 are soldered to the electrical contacts of the upper
connection piece. However, in other embodiments, the electrical
contacts are fixedly secured to the lower connection piece 182. In
some instances, gold plated copper alloy contacts are utilized.
However, it is understood that any suitable electrical contacts can
be utilized by the connector 170.
[0086] In some instances, the cable 186 is replaced with a wireless
connection (e.g., a wireless antenna). In that regard, it is
understood that various communication pathways between the
connector 170 and another component of the intravascular system may
be utilized, including physical connections (including electrical,
optical, and/or fluid connections), wireless connections, and/or
combinations thereof.
[0087] As shown in FIGS. 13 and 14, the lower connection piece 182
includes a recess 190 that is sized and shaped to receive the
intravascular device 102 therein. In particular, the recess 190 is
sized and shaped to receive the connection portion 114 of the
intravascular device 102. In that regard, the width of the recess
190 is typically sized to be slightly larger than the diameter of
the connection portion 114 of the intravascular device 102. The
recess 190 helps to maintain the connection portion 114 of the
intravascular device 102 in position within the connector 170. To
help ensure that the connection portion 114 of the intravascular
device 102 is properly aligned with the electrical contacts of the
connector 170, the upper connection piece 180 includes visual
markers 192, 194, and 196 that provide an indication of the
location of the electrical contacts and, therefore, where the
electrical contacts or connectors of the connection portion 114 of
the intravascular device 102 should be aligned. For example,
similar to the visual markers 152, 154, and 156 of connector 104
shown in FIG. 11, the visual markers 192, 194, and 196 are
configured to be aligned with the conductive portions 122, 124, and
126, respectively, of connection portion 114 to facilitate
connection of the connector 170 to the intravascular device
102.
[0088] In the illustrated embodiment, the visual markers 192, 194,
and 196 are arrows. However, it is understood that any type of
visual markers may be utilized including, without limitation,
projections, recesses, colors, shapes, and/or combinations thereof.
In that regard, in some embodiments the visual markers are
color-coded to match correspondingly colored visual markers
associated with the electrical contacts or connectors of the
intravascular device 102. Further, in the illustrated embodiment
the connector 170 includes an active element 198 to provide an
indication of whether a proper connection between the connector 170
and the connection portion 114 of the intravascular device 102 has
been achieved. The active element may provide a visual signal, an
audible signal, and/or combinations thereof representing a
connection between the connector 170 and the connection portion
114. In the illustrated embodiment, active element 198 is a light
emitting diode (LED) that illuminates when a proper connection is
achieved between the connector 170 and the connection portion 114.
For example, in some instances the active element 198 is off when
no connection or an improper connection and illuminates when a
proper connection is made. In other instances, the active element
198 illuminates a first color (e.g., red) when no connection or an
improper connection is made and illuminates a second, different
color (e.g., green) when a proper connection is made. In yet other
instances, the active element 198 illuminates a first color (e.g.,
red) when no connection or an improper connection is made,
illuminates a second, different color (e.g., yellow) when a partial
connection is made, and illuminates a third, different color (e.g.,
green) when a full proper connection is made. The active element
198 has been described as being applicable to the overall
connection between the connector 170 and the connection portion
114. However, in other embodiments, a separate active element is
provided for each connection between a conductor of the connector
170 and a conductor of the connection portion 114.
[0089] Referring now to FIGS. 15-31, shown therein is a connector
200 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. In
that regard, FIG. 15 is a diagrammatic perspective front view of
the connector 200; FIG. 16 is a diagrammatic perspective rear view
of the connector 200; FIG. 17 is a diagrammatic perspective rear
view of the connector 200 similar to that of FIG. 16, but with
inner components of the connector 200 illustrated; FIG. 18 is a
diagrammatic top view of the connector 200; FIG. 19 is a
diagrammatic top view of the connector 200 similar to that of FIG.
18, but with the inner components of the connector 200 illustrated;
FIG. 20 is a diagrammatic bottom view of the connector 200; FIG. 21
is a diagrammatic bottom view of the connector 200 similar to that
of FIG. 20, but with the inner components of the connector 200
illustrated; FIG. 22 is a diagrammatic side view of the connector
200; FIG. 23 is a diagrammatic side view of the connector 200
similar to that of FIG. 22, but with inner components of the
connector 200 illustrated; FIG. 24 is a diagrammatic side view of
the connector 200 similar to that of FIG. 22, but from the opposite
side of the connector 200; FIG. 25 is a diagrammatic side view of
the connector 200 similar to that of FIG. 24, but with inner
components of the connector 200 illustrated; FIG. 26 is a
diagrammatic rear view of the connector 200; FIG. 27 is a
diagrammatic front view of the connector 200; FIG. 28 is a
diagrammatic perspective front view of the connector 200 shown in
an open position and receiving an intravascular device; FIG. 29 is
a diagrammatic side view of the connector 200 in the open position
and receiving the intravascular device; FIG. 30 is a diagrammatic
perspective front view of the connector 200 shown in a closed
position and receiving an intravascular device; and FIG. 31 is a
diagrammatic side view of the connector 200 in the closed position
and receiving the intravascular device.
[0090] As shown in FIG. 15, the connector 200 includes an upper
component 202 and a lower component 204. As discussed below, the
upper and lower components 202 and 204 are slidable with respect to
one another to facilitate insertion of an intravascular device into
the connector 200 and subsequent engagement of the connector with
the received intravascular device that results in one or more
electrical connections between the intravascular device and the
connector. In the illustrated embodiment, the upper component 202
includes an upper surface 206 with gripping features 208 extending
therefrom. In that regard, the gripping features 208 are generally
representative of any type of structure (e.g., projection(s),
recess(es), combinations thereof, etc.), texture (e.g., roughened,
knurled, patterned, combinations thereof, etc.) and/or combinations
thereof configured to provide an interface to assist a user in
translating the upper component 202 relative to the lower component
204. In the illustrated embodiment, the gripping features 208 are
rounded projections extending upward from the upper surface 206 of
the upper component 202, as shown in FIG. 24. Further, the gripping
features 208 extend across a width of the upper component 202 in a
direction that is transverse to the longitudinal axis of the upper
component 202, as shown in each of FIGS. 15-19. As discussed below,
the upper component 202 is configured to translate with respect to
the lower component 204 along (or parallel to) the longitudinal
axis of the upper component between open and closed positions such
that the connector 200 is configured to receive the connection
portion of an intravascular device, such as connection portion 114
of intravascular device 102, in a direction that is transverse to
the longitudinal axis of the intravascular device. In that regard,
the gripping features 208 extend parallel to the longitudinal axis
of the intravascular device when the intravascular device is
received within and engaged with the connector 200. In some
embodiments, the lower component 204 includes one or more gripping
features similar to gripping features 208 of upper component 202.
In that regard, the lower component 204 may have the same, fewer,
or more gripping features than the upper component 202, in the same
or a different arrangement, and/or with the same or different
structural profiles.
[0091] To guide the movement of the upper component 202 with
respect to the lower component 204, the upper component 202
includes projections 210 that are received within corresponding
slots or openings 212 of the lower component, as best seen in FIGS.
17, 23, 25, 29, and 31. In that regard, the openings 212 are formed
in the outer side surfaces of the lower component 204 and extend
along the length of the lower component in a direction parallel to
the longitudinal axis of the lower component. The projections 210
extend inwardly from an inner side surface of the upper component
202 such that when the upper and lower components 202, 204 are
assembled together the projections 210 are received within the
openings 212. The projections 210 are sized and shaped to be
slidably received within the openings 212 such that the projections
210 can translate along the length of the openings 212 when the
upper component 202 is translated relative to the lower component
204. In some instances, the opposing ends of the openings 212 serve
as stops to limit travel of the upper component 202 relative to the
lower component 204. In that regard, the projection 210 will
contact a first end of the opening when the upper component 202 is
in the fully opened position (See, e.g., FIG. 29) and will contact
a second end of the opening opposite the first end when the upper
component is in the fully closed position (See, e.g., FIG. 31). In
some embodiments, the connector 200 includes a spring detent to
lightly lock the mechanism in the closed position. In that regard,
the spring detent biases the upper component 202 of the connector
200 toward the closed position through at least part of the sliding
motion between the upper and lower components.
[0092] As shown in FIGS. 17, 19, 21, 23, 25, and 28-31, the upper
component 202 includes electrical contacts 214, 216, 218, 220, and
222. In that regard, the electrical contacts 214, 216, 218, 220,
and 222 are configured to engage corresponding electrical contacts
of an intravascular device, such as conductive portions 122, 124,
and 126 of connection portion 114 of the intravascular device 102.
For example, in the illustrated embodiment electrical contact 214
is configured to be electrically coupled to conductive portion 122,
electrical contacts 216 and 218 are configured to be electrically
coupled to conductive portion 124, and electrical contacts 220 and
222 are configured to be electrically coupled to conductive portion
126. It is understood, however, that any arrangement of electrical
connection between the connector 200 and an intravascular device
may be utilized. In that regard, the connector 200 may include any
number of electrical contacts (e.g., 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, or
more electrical contacts), may include a single contact for each of
one or more conductive portions of the intravascular device, may
include multiple contacts for each of one or more conductive
portions of the intravascular device, and/or combinations thereof.
Further, in the illustrated embodiment the electrical contacts 214,
216, 218, 220, and 222 are split, open-comb electrical contacts. In
that regard, each of the electrical contacts 214, 216, 218, 220,
and 222 is configured to receive a conductive portion of an
intravascular device therein such that some of the teeth of the
open-comb electrical contact will be positioned above the
conductive portion and others of the teeth of the open-comb
electrical contact will be positioned below the conductive portion.
This arrangement provides a secure and reliable electrical
connection between the electrical contact of the connector 200 and
the corresponding conductive portion of the intravascular device.
Further, as discussed below with respect to FIGS. 28-31, the
open-comb electrical contacts are particularly well-suited to
facilitate proper electrical connection between the connector 200
and an intravascular device positioned within the lower component
204 when the upper component 202 is translated relative to the
lower component 204 from the open position towards the closed
position. Further, the open-comb configuration allows for the
intravascular device to be rotated with respect to the connector
while maintaining a proper connection. Thus, the open-comb
configuration allows a user (e.g., surgeon) to keep the connector
200 connected to the intravascular device while the intravascular
device is moved or advanced through the vasculature with little
resistance to rotational movement of the intravascular device. In
other words, the intravascular device can be moved through the
vascular, undergoing various twists and turns, without the
connector 200 needing to move with rotations of the intravascular
device. Also, the open-comb configuration helps ensure good
electrical contact due to the multiple fingers for each of the
contacts. In addition, the open end of the open-comb configuration
provides a good guide for ensuring that the intravascular device is
correctly positioned when the upper component is closed onto the
intravascular. While various advantages of the open-comb
configuration have been described, it is understood that any
appropriately sized electrical contacts can be utilized, including
a single contact or a plurality of contacts.
[0093] Similar to the connectors 104 and 170 discussed above, the
connector 200 is configured to interface with a connection portion
of an intravascular device to facilitate communication between the
intravascular device and a separate component. In particular, the
connector 200 is configured to facilitate communication between one
or more electronic components of the intravascular device (that are
electrically coupled to the connection portion) and a separate
component, such as a processing system associated with the one or
more electronic components. To that end, the connector 200 includes
a communication cable (not shown) that is configured to carry
signals between the connector 200 and the separate component. In
particular, the cable is configured to carry electrical signals and
includes one or more electrical conductors extending along its
length to facilitate such electrical communication. However, the
type of communication cable utilized is dependent on the type of
electronic, optical, and/or electro-optical components that are
incorporated into the intravascular device. In that regard, the
communication cable may include one or more of an electrical
conductor, an optical fiber, and/or combinations thereof. In some
instances, the cable is configured to be plugged into an interface
of a processing system. In that regard, the interface is a patient
interface module (PIM) in some instances.
[0094] As best shown in FIGS. 17 and 19, the upper component 202
includes a support structure 224 that has openings 226 and 228
extending therethrough that facilitate passage of the cable
therethrough. In particular, the openings 226 and 228 are
configured to allow the cable to extend through the upper component
202 from the coupling of the electrical conductors of the cable to
the electrical contacts 214, 216, 218, 220, and 222. In some
instances, the electrical conductors of the cable are soldered to
the electrical contacts 214, 216, 218, 220, and 222 of the upper
connection piece. The openings 226 and 228 are generally aligned
with an opening 230 of the lower component 204. In that regard, the
cable extends through opening 230 in some embodiments. The
arrangement of the openings 226, 228, and 230 allows the upper
component 202 to translate with respect to the lower component 204
without damaging the electrical couplings between the electrical
conductors of the cable and the electrical contacts 214, 216, 218,
220, and 222 of the upper component and without creating unwanted
kinking/bending of the cable. While in the illustrated embodiment,
the electrical contacts 214, 216, 218, 220, and 222 are fixedly
secured to the upper component 202, in other embodiments, the
electrical contacts are fixedly secured to the lower component 204
and the lower component includes necessary recesses, openings,
and/or passages to facilitate connection of the communication cable
to the contacts and passing of the cable out of the connector.
[0095] As best shown in FIGS. 23, 25, 29, and 31, the lower
component 204 includes a recess 232 that is sized and shaped to
receive an intravascular device. In particular, the recess 232 is
sized and shaped to receive a connection portion of the
intravascular device. In the illustrated embodiment, the width of
the recess 232 tapers from wider to narrower as the recess extends
into the lower component 204. In that regard, the recess 232
includes a surface 234 and an opposing surface 236 that generally
define the recess 232. The recess 232 is configured to maintain the
connection portion of the intravascular device in position within
the connector 200. In particular, the surface 236 is configured to
maintain the intravascular device within the recess 232 as the
upper component 202 is advanced relative to the lower component 204
and into engagement with the intravascular device. Accordingly, in
some embodiments the surface 236 extends generally perpendicular to
the longitudinal axis of the lower component to prevent the
intravascular device from sliding up surface 236 and out of the
recess 232 as the electrical contacts of the upper component 202
are advanced into electrical engagement with the intravascular
device. In some particular embodiments, the surface 236 extends at
an angle between about 60 degrees and about 120 degrees relative to
the longitudinal axis of the lower component 204. In other
embodiments, the surface 236 extends at an angle outside of this
range (either smaller or larger). In the illustrated embodiment,
the surface 236 extends at an angle of about 85 degrees relative to
the longitudinal axis of the lower component, while the surface 234
extends at an angle of about 135 degrees relative to the
longitudinal axis of the lower component (See, e.g., FIG. 23).
[0096] In some embodiments, such as the illustrated embodiment, the
recess 232 has discontinuities as it extends across the width of
the lower component. In particular, as shown in FIG. 28 of the
illustrated embodiment, the lower component 204 includes outer
portions 238 and 240 that define the outer boundaries of the recess
232. The outer portions 238 and 240 include surfaces 234 and 236 as
discussed above. Further, the lower component 204 also includes
supports 242, 244 having recess portions 246, 248, respectively. In
that regard, the recess portions 246 and 248 are portions of recess
232 and are configured to receive the intravascular device. In some
embodiments, the recess portions 246 and 248 include tapered
surfaces similar to surfaces 234 and 236 discussed above. However,
in other embodiments the recess portions 246 and 248 comprise only
the bottom portion of the recess 232 that is sized and shaped to
receive the intravascular device. For example, as shown in FIGS. 28
and 30, the recess portion 246 and 248 have a maximum length along
the longitudinal axis of the lower component 204 that is much
smaller than the maximum length of the recess 232 at the outer
portions 238 and 240. It is understood that, in other embodiments,
the arrangement of the recess 232 as defined by outer portions 238,
240 is similar to that defined by supports 242, 244 and/or vice
versa.
[0097] To help ensure that the connection portion of the
intravascular device is properly aligned with the electrical
contacts of the connector 200, the upper and/or lower component(s)
202, 204 may include one or more visual markers (active and/or
passive) and/or be at least partially formed of a clear or
translucent material as discussed above with respect to connectors
104 and 170. Further, in the illustrated embodiment, the lower
component 204 includes openings 250, 252, 254, 256, and 258 that
extend through the lower surface of the lower component in general
alignment with where the conductive portions of the intravascular
device should be positioned when received by the connector 200.
Accordingly, in some instances a user can look through the opening
to confirm proper positioning of the intravascular device within
the connector 200. For example, when intravascular device 102 is
utilized with connector 200, conductive portion 120 can be
visualized through opening 250, conductive portion 122 can be
visualized through at least one of openings 252 and 254, and
conductive portion 124 can be visualized through at least one of
openings 256 and 258.
[0098] Referring more specifically to FIGS. 28-31, shown therein is
a transition of the connector 200 from the open positioned to the
closed position. In that regard, the connector 200 is shown in the
open position in FIGS. 28 and 29. As shown, the connector 200 is
configured to receive the intravascular device 102 in a
side-loading fashion. More specifically, the recess 232 in the
lower component 204 is revealed when the upper component 202 is
retracted to the open position such that the intravascular device
102 can be seated within the recess by moving the intravascular
device 102 in a direction transverse to its longitudinal axis. To
load the intravascular device within the connector 200, the
connector 200 may be moved relative to the intravascular device
102, the intravascular device 102 may be moved relative to the
connector 200, and/or combinations thereof. With the intravascular
device 102 positioned within the recess 232 of the lower component,
the upper component 202 is translated with respect to the lower
component 204 by projections 210 sliding along guide slots 212 to
the closed position illustrated in FIGS. 30 and 31. In the closed
position, the intravascular device 102 is held between the upper
and lower components 202 and 204 such that the connector 200 is in
electrical communication with the connection portion 114 of the
intravascular device. In particular, as the upper component 202 is
advanced towards the closed position the split teeth of the
open-comb electrical contacts 214, 216, 218, 220, and 222 engage
the connection portion 114 of the intravascular device 102. In that
regard, the bottom of the recess 232 is positioned relative to the
electrical contacts 214, 216, 218, 220, and 222 such that the
intravascular device will be aligned with the electrical contacts
214, 216, 218, 220, and 222 in the vertical direction when the
intravascular device is seated within the recess. Accordingly, with
the intravascular device 102 seated in the recess such that the
conductive portions 120, 122, and 124 of the connection portion 114
are aligned both horizontally and vertically with respect to the
electrical contacts of the connector 200, advancement of the upper
component 202 to the closed position electrically couples the
connector 200 to the intravascular device 102.
[0099] Referring now to FIGS. 32-47, shown therein is a connector
300 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. In
that regard, FIG. 32 is a diagrammatic perspective front view of
the connector 300; FIG. 33 is a diagrammatic perspective rear view
of the connector 300; FIG. 34 is a diagrammatic top view of the
connector 300; FIG. 35 is a diagrammatic top view of the connector
300 similar to that of FIG. 34, but with the inner components of
the connector 300 illustrated; FIG. 36 is a diagrammatic bottom
view of the connector 300; FIG. 37 is a diagrammatic bottom view of
the connector 300 similar to that of FIG. 36, but with the inner
components of the connector 300 illustrated; FIG. 38 is a
diagrammatic side view of the connector 300; FIG. 39 is a
diagrammatic side view of the connector 300 similar to that of FIG.
38, but with inner components of the connector 300 illustrated;
FIG. 40 is a diagrammatic side view of the connector 300 similar to
that of FIG. 38, but from the opposite side of the connector 300;
FIG. 41 is a diagrammatic side view of the connector 300 similar to
that of FIG. 40, but with inner components of the connector 300
illustrated; FIG. 42 is a diagrammatic rear view of the connector
300; FIG. 43 is a diagrammatic rear view of the connector similar
to that of FIG. 42, but with inner components of the connector
illustrated; FIG. 44 is a diagrammatic top view of the connector
300 shown in an open position and receiving an intravascular
device; FIG. 45 is a diagrammatic side view of the connector 300 in
the open position and receiving the intravascular device; FIG. 46
is a diagrammatic perspective front view of the connector 300 in a
closed position and receiving an intravascular device; and FIG. 47
is a diagrammatic side view of the connector 300 in the closed
position and receiving the intravascular device.
[0100] As shown in FIG. 32, the connector 300 includes an upper
component 302 and a lower component 304. As discussed below, the
upper and lower components 302 and 304 are slidable with respect to
one another to facilitate insertion of an intravascular device into
the connector 300 and subsequent engagement of the connector with
the received intravascular device that results in one or more
electrical connections between the intravascular device and the
connector. In that regard, the upper component 302 includes
electrical contacts 314, 316, 318, 320, and 322, as shown in FIGS.
35-37, 39, 41, and 44-47. The electrical contacts 314, 316, 318,
320, and 322 are configured to engage corresponding electrical
contacts of an intravascular device, such as conductive portions
122, 124, and 126 of connection portion 114 of the intravascular
device 102. For example, in the illustrated embodiment electrical
contact 314 is configured to be electrically coupled to conductive
portion 122, electrical contacts 316 and 318 are configured to be
electrically coupled to conductive portion 124, and electrical
contacts 320 and 322 are configured to be electrically coupled to
conductive portion 126. It is understood, however, that any
arrangement of electrical connection between the connector 200 and
an intravascular device may be utilized. In that regard, the
connector 200 may include any number of electrical contacts (e.g.,
1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, or more electrical contacts), may include a
single contact for each of one or more conductive portions of the
intravascular device, may include multiple contacts for each of one
or more conductive portions of the intravascular device, and/or
combinations thereof. Further, in the illustrated embodiment the
electrical contacts 314, 316, 318, 320, and 322 are split,
open-comb electrical contacts. In that regard, each of the
electrical contacts 314, 316, 318, 320, and 322 is configured to
receive a conductive portion of an intravascular device therein
such that some of the teeth of the open-comb electrical contact
will be positioned above the conductive portion and others of the
teeth of the open-comb electrical contact will be positioned below
the conductive portion. This arrangement provides a secure and
reliable electrical connection between the electrical contact of
the connector 300 and the corresponding conductive portion of the
intravascular device. Further, as discussed below with respect to
FIGS. 44-47, the open-comb electrical contacts are particularly
well-suited to facilitate proper electrical connection between the
connector 300 and an intravascular device positioned within the
lower component 304 when the upper component 302 is translated
relative to the lower component 304 from the open position towards
the closed position. However, any appropriately sized electrical
contacts can be utilized, including a single contact or a plurality
of contacts.
[0101] Similar to the connectors 104, 170, and 200 discussed above,
the connector 300 is configured to interface with a connection
portion of an intravascular device to facilitate communication
between the intravascular device and a separate component. In
particular, the connector 300 is configured to facilitate
communication between one or more electronic components of the
intravascular device (that are electrically coupled to the
connection portion) and a separate component, such as a processing
system associated with the one or more electronic components. To
that end, the connector 300 includes a communication cable (not
shown) that is configured to carry signals between the connector
300 and the separate component. In particular, the cable is
configured to carry electrical signals and includes one or more
electrical conductors extending along its length to facilitate such
electrical communication. However, the type of communication cable
utilized is dependent on the type of electronic, optical, and/or
electro-optical components that are incorporated into the
intravascular device. In that regard, the communication cable may
include one or more of an electrical conductor, an optical fiber,
and/or combinations thereof. In some instances, the cable is
configured to be plugged into an interface of a processing system.
In that regard, the interface is a patient interface module (PIM)
in some instances.
[0102] The upper and lower components 302 and 304 of the connector
300 are configured to allow the cable to extend from the couplings
between the electrical conductors of the cable to the electrical
contacts 314, 316, 318, 320, and 322 out through an opening 330 in
a side of the lower component 304, as shown in FIGS. 40 and 41 for
example. The arrangement of the upper and lower components 302 and
304, including opening 330, allows the upper component 302 to
translate with respect to the lower component 304 without damaging
the electrical couplings between the electrical conductors of the
cable and the electrical contacts 314, 316, 318, 320, and 322 of
the upper component and without creating unwanted kinking/bending
of the cable. While in the illustrated embodiment, the electrical
contacts 314, 316, 318, 320, and 322 are fixedly secured to the
upper component 302, in other embodiments, the electrical contacts
are fixedly secured to the lower component 304.
[0103] As best shown in FIGS. 35, 37, 39, 41, 45, and 47, the upper
component 302 includes a structure 324 that has openings 326 and
328 extending therethrough. Further, to facilitate passage of the
cable out of the connector 300, the upper component 302 includes an
opening 330, as shown, for example, in FIGS. 33, 35, 37, 40, 41,
and 44-47. In the illustrated embodiment, the opening 330 extends
through an end or side of the connector 300. Accordingly, this
configuration allows the cable to come out of the connector 300 in
the same direction as an intravascular device received by the
connector. This is beneficial in some instances where the user
(e.g., surgeon) wants to leave the connector 300 coupled to the
intravascular device while performing a procedure. In other
embodiments, the opening 330 is positioned elsewhere around the
perimeter of the connector 300. As best shown in FIGS. 38-41, 45,
and 47, the lower component 304 includes a recess 332 that is sized
and shaped to receive an intravascular device. In particular, the
recess 332 is sized and shaped to receive a connection portion of
the intravascular device. In the illustrated embodiment, the width
of the recess 332 tapers from wider to narrower as the recess
extends into the lower component 304. In that regard, the recess
332 includes a surface 334 and an opposing surface 336 that
generally define the recess 332. The recess 332 is configured to
maintain the connection portion of the intravascular device in
position within the connector 300. In particular, the surface 336
is configured to maintain the intravascular device within the
recess 332 as the upper component 302 is advanced relative to the
lower component 304 and into engagement with the intravascular
device. Accordingly, in some embodiments the surface 336 extends
generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the lower
component to prevent the intravascular device from sliding up
surface 336 and out of the recess 332 as the electrical contacts of
the upper component 302 are advanced into electrical engagement
with the intravascular device. In some particular embodiments, the
surface 336 extends at an angle between about 60 degrees and about
120 degrees relative to a longitudinal axis of the lower component
304 (e.g., a longitudinal axis extending left-to-right in each of
FIGS. 38-41, 45, and 47). In other embodiments, the surface 336
extends at an angle outside of this range (either smaller or
larger). In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 45, for example, the
surface 336 extends at an angle of about 85 degrees relative to a
longitudinal axis of the lower component extending left-to-right in
the drawing, while the surface 334 extends at an angle of about 135
degrees relative to the longitudinal axis of the lower
component.
[0104] In some embodiments, the recess 332 has discontinuities as
it extends across the width of the lower component. For example, as
shown in FIG. 44 of the illustrated embodiment, the lower component
304 includes outer portions 338 and 340 that define the outer
boundaries of the recess 332. The outer portions 338 and 340
include surfaces 334 and 336 as discussed above. Further, the lower
component 304 also includes supports 342, 344, 346, and 348 having
recessed portions that are part of recess 332 and are configured to
receive the intravascular device. In some embodiments, the recessed
portions of the supports 342, 344, 346, and 348 include tapered
surfaces similar to surfaces 334 and 336 discussed above. However,
in other embodiments the recessed portions comprise only the bottom
portion of the recess 332 that is sized and shaped to receive the
intravascular device. It is understood that, in other embodiments,
the arrangement of the recess 332 as defined by outer portions 338,
340 is similar to that defined by supports 342, 344, 346, and 348
and/or vice versa. In some embodiments, the spacings between the
supports 342, 344, 346, and 348 are sized and shaped to allows the
electrical contacts 314, 316, 318, 320, and 322 of the upper
component 302 to move between the open and closed positions of the
connector 300 as discussed below.
[0105] Referring again to FIGS. 35, 37, 39, 41, 45, and 47, to
guide the movement of the upper component 302 with respect to the
lower component 304, the openings 326 and 328 in the structure 324
of the upper component 302 receive projections or rods 350, 352 of
the lower component 304. In that regard, as shown, the rods 350,
352 are sized and shaped to be slidably received within the
openings 326, 328, respectively, such that the upper component 302
can translate along the length of the rods 350, 352. In some
instances, the opposing ends of the rods 350, 352 include one or
more structure features (e.g., projection, wall, etc.) to serve as
a stop to limit the travel of the upper component 302 relative to
the lower component 304. In some embodiments, the connector 300
includes a locking mechanism (e.g., projection and detent
arrangement) to hold the connector in the closed position. Further,
in some embodiments the connector 300 includes one or more bias
elements (e.g., spring(s)) to urge the connector towards either the
open or closed position.
[0106] To help ensure that the connection portion of the
intravascular device is properly aligned with the electrical
contacts of the connector 300, the upper and/or lower component(s)
302, 304 may include one or more visual markers (active and/or
passive) as discussed above with respect to connectors 104, 170,
and 200. Further, in the illustrated embodiment, the lower
component 304 includes openings 354, 356, 358, 360, and 362 that
extend through the lower surface of the lower component in general
alignment with the electrical contacts 314, 316, 318, 320, and 322
of the upper component 302 and, therefore, in general alignment
with where the conductive portions of the intravascular device
should be positioned when received by the connector 300.
Accordingly, in some instances a user can look through the opening
to confirm proper positioning of the intravascular device within
the connector 300, as shown in FIG. 36 for example. In that regard,
when intravascular device 102 is utilized with connector 300,
conductive portion 120 can be visualized through opening 354,
conductive portion 122 can be visualized through at least one of
openings 356 and 358, and conductive portion 124 can be visualized
through at least one of openings 360 and 362. Also, the openings
354, 356, 358, 360, and 362 facilitate drainage of fluid out of the
bottom of the connector 300.
[0107] Referring more specifically to FIGS. 44-47, shown therein is
a transition of the connector 300 from the open positioned to the
closed position. In that regard, the connector 300 is shown in the
open position in FIGS. 44 and 45. As shown, the connector 300 is
configured to receive the intravascular device 102 in a
side-loading fashion. More specifically, the recess 332 in the
lower component 304 is revealed when the upper component 302 is
retracted to the open position such that the intravascular device
102 can be seated within the recess by moving the intravascular
device 102 in a direction transverse to its longitudinal axis. To
load the intravascular device 102 within the connector 300, the
connector 300 may be moved relative to the intravascular device
102, the intravascular device 102 may be moved relative to the
connector 300, and/or combinations thereof. With the intravascular
device 102 positioned within the recess 332 of the lower component,
the upper component 302 is translated with respect to the lower
component 304 by sliding along rods 350, 352 to the closed position
illustrated in FIGS. 46 and 47. In the closed position, the
intravascular device 102 is held between the upper and lower
components 302 and 304 such that the connector 300 is in electrical
communication with the connection portion 114 of the intravascular
device. In particular, as the upper component 302 is advanced
towards the closed position the split teeth of the open-comb
electrical contacts 314, 316, 318, 320, and 322 engage the
connection portion 114 of the intravascular device 102. In that
regard, the bottom of the recess 332 is positioned relative to the
electrical contacts 314, 316, 318, 320, and 322 such that the
intravascular device will be aligned with the electrical contacts
314, 316, 318, 320, and 322 in the vertical direction when the
intravascular device is seated within the recess. Accordingly, with
the intravascular device 102 seated in the recess such that the
conductive portions 120, 122, and 124 of the connection portion 114
are aligned both horizontally and vertically with respect to the
electrical contacts of the connector 300, advancement of the upper
component 302 to the closed position electrically couples the
connector 300 to the intravascular device 102.
[0108] Persons skilled in the art will also recognize that the
apparatus, systems, and methods described above can be modified in
various ways. Accordingly, persons of ordinary skill in the art
will appreciate that the embodiments encompassed by the present
disclosure are not limited to the particular exemplary embodiments
described above. In that regard, although illustrative embodiments
have been shown and described, a wide range of modification,
change, and substitution is contemplated in the foregoing
disclosure. It is understood that such variations may be made to
the foregoing without departing from the scope of the present
disclosure. Accordingly, it is appropriate that the appended claims
be construed broadly and in a manner consistent with the present
disclosure.
* * * * *