CA1102414A - Enclosure system for body implantable electrical systems - Google Patents
Enclosure system for body implantable electrical systemsInfo
- Publication number
- CA1102414A CA1102414A CA302,564A CA302564A CA1102414A CA 1102414 A CA1102414 A CA 1102414A CA 302564 A CA302564 A CA 302564A CA 1102414 A CA1102414 A CA 1102414A
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- cup
- enclosure
- components
- body implantable
- main wall
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Expired
Links
Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61N—ELECTROTHERAPY; MAGNETOTHERAPY; RADIATION THERAPY; ULTRASOUND THERAPY
- A61N1/00—Electrotherapy; Circuits therefor
- A61N1/18—Applying electric currents by contact electrodes
- A61N1/32—Applying electric currents by contact electrodes alternating or intermittent currents
- A61N1/36—Applying electric currents by contact electrodes alternating or intermittent currents for stimulation
- A61N1/372—Arrangements in connection with the implantation of stimulators
- A61N1/375—Constructional arrangements, e.g. casings
Landscapes
- Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Biomedical Technology (AREA)
- Nuclear Medicine, Radiotherapy & Molecular Imaging (AREA)
- Radiology & Medical Imaging (AREA)
- Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
- Animal Behavior & Ethology (AREA)
- General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- Public Health (AREA)
- Veterinary Medicine (AREA)
- Electrotherapy Devices (AREA)
- Table Devices Or Equipment (AREA)
Abstract
ENCLOSURE SYSTEM FOR BODY
IMPLANTABLE ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS
ABSTRACT OF THE DISCLOSURE
An improved body implantable electrical stimulator assembly of the type having interconnected electrical components housed within a preformed enclosure. A cup is provided in which the components are finally assembled, the cup being configured to fit within the enclosure. Preferably, the enclosure is formed of a plurality of members at least one of which has a main wall and a side wall joined at a radius.
The cup is similarly formed of a main wall and a side wall, the main wall being generally coextensive with at least a major portion of the enclosure member main wall. The cup engages the enclosure in a manner such that its movement within the enclosure is limited. Movement of the components within the cup is restrained.
IMPLANTABLE ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS
ABSTRACT OF THE DISCLOSURE
An improved body implantable electrical stimulator assembly of the type having interconnected electrical components housed within a preformed enclosure. A cup is provided in which the components are finally assembled, the cup being configured to fit within the enclosure. Preferably, the enclosure is formed of a plurality of members at least one of which has a main wall and a side wall joined at a radius.
The cup is similarly formed of a main wall and a side wall, the main wall being generally coextensive with at least a major portion of the enclosure member main wall. The cup engages the enclosure in a manner such that its movement within the enclosure is limited. Movement of the components within the cup is restrained.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION:
sody implantable electrical stimulators are well known to the prior art, the most co~mon being the cardiac pace-maker. The electrical components forming such stimulators have been housed in a matrix of molded material which supports the components and shields them from the body environment.
More recently, the electrical components forming the stimulator have been housed within a rigid enclosure formed of a plurality of preformed members which are typically welded together to complete the enclosure.
Some of the problems attending the use of a preformed rigid enclosure for a body implantable electrical stimulator are the need to electrically insulate the components from the enclosure, isolation of the components against shock and vibration, and securement of the components within the enclosure. These problems have been addressed by molding the assembled electrical components within a matrix of material to support the components relative to each other and provide an isolation between the components and the enclosure, with the molded matrix then being secured to the enclosure, as by an adhesive.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION:
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The present invention provides a cup in which the components of a body implantable electrical stimulator may ~e assembled, the cup being configured to fit within a preformed electrical stimulator enclosure. The components are secured within the cup, and the cup is provided with means for mechanically limiting its movement within the enclosure. Thus, the necessity of molding the assembled components i5 eliminated as is the need to secure the component
sody implantable electrical stimulators are well known to the prior art, the most co~mon being the cardiac pace-maker. The electrical components forming such stimulators have been housed in a matrix of molded material which supports the components and shields them from the body environment.
More recently, the electrical components forming the stimulator have been housed within a rigid enclosure formed of a plurality of preformed members which are typically welded together to complete the enclosure.
Some of the problems attending the use of a preformed rigid enclosure for a body implantable electrical stimulator are the need to electrically insulate the components from the enclosure, isolation of the components against shock and vibration, and securement of the components within the enclosure. These problems have been addressed by molding the assembled electrical components within a matrix of material to support the components relative to each other and provide an isolation between the components and the enclosure, with the molded matrix then being secured to the enclosure, as by an adhesive.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION:
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The present invention provides a cup in which the components of a body implantable electrical stimulator may ~e assembled, the cup being configured to fit within a preformed electrical stimulator enclosure. The components are secured within the cup, and the cup is provided with means for mechanically limiting its movement within the enclosure. Thus, the necessity of molding the assembled components i5 eliminated as is the need to secure the component
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mold within the enclosure. The componen~s may be secured within the cup by an encapsula~ing ma~erial which substantially fills the cup, or by elements which engage one or more components to mecha~ically maintain them in position. In a preferred embodiment, the enclosure is formed of a plurality of members at least one of which has a main wall and a side wall joined at a radius. The cup is formed of a main wall and a side wall, the cup main wall being generally coextensive with at least a major portion of the enclosure member main wall with the cup side wall encircling the components. The cup is further provided with means engaging the enclosure member radius to limit movement of the cup within ~he enclosure. The cup ' side wall may be provided with an an~enna coil form when an antenna is required by the stimulator in question.
Thus, in accordance with a broad aspect of the invention~
there is provided~ in a body implantable stimulator of the t~pe having interconnected components housed within a preformed enclosure, the improve-ment which comprises insulating and isolating cup means formed of a resilient, non-conductive material and configured to accept said components and substan-tially fill said enclosure, said cup means further comprising resilient means for maintaining at least one of said components in a preselected position ;- 20 within said cup means.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE D~AWINGS:
FIGURE 1 is an exploded view illustrating a two member pre-formed enclosure and the cup of the present invention.
FIGURE 2 illustrates a cross-section of a preferred embodiment of the cup of the present invention and its cooperation with enclosure members of FIGURE 1.
FIGURE 3 illustrates another preferred embodiment of the cup ; of the present invention.
- FIGURE 4 is a view taken along the line 4-4 in FIGURE 3.
FIGURES 5 AND 6 illustrate the cooperation of the embodiment
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mold within the enclosure. The componen~s may be secured within the cup by an encapsula~ing ma~erial which substantially fills the cup, or by elements which engage one or more components to mecha~ically maintain them in position. In a preferred embodiment, the enclosure is formed of a plurality of members at least one of which has a main wall and a side wall joined at a radius. The cup is formed of a main wall and a side wall, the cup main wall being generally coextensive with at least a major portion of the enclosure member main wall with the cup side wall encircling the components. The cup is further provided with means engaging the enclosure member radius to limit movement of the cup within ~he enclosure. The cup ' side wall may be provided with an an~enna coil form when an antenna is required by the stimulator in question.
Thus, in accordance with a broad aspect of the invention~
there is provided~ in a body implantable stimulator of the t~pe having interconnected components housed within a preformed enclosure, the improve-ment which comprises insulating and isolating cup means formed of a resilient, non-conductive material and configured to accept said components and substan-tially fill said enclosure, said cup means further comprising resilient means for maintaining at least one of said components in a preselected position ;- 20 within said cup means.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE D~AWINGS:
FIGURE 1 is an exploded view illustrating a two member pre-formed enclosure and the cup of the present invention.
FIGURE 2 illustrates a cross-section of a preferred embodiment of the cup of the present invention and its cooperation with enclosure members of FIGURE 1.
FIGURE 3 illustrates another preferred embodiment of the cup ; of the present invention.
- FIGURE 4 is a view taken along the line 4-4 in FIGURE 3.
FIGURES 5 AND 6 illustrate the cooperation of the embodiment
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~2q~4 of ~IGURES 3 and 4 with an enclosure member.
FIGURES 7 and 8 illustrate a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
FIGURE 9 illustrates still another preferred embodimen~ of the present invention.
FIGURE 10 illustrates an enclosure member to which the cup of the present invention may be adapted.
FIGUR~ 11 illustrates an adaptation of the cup Oe the present invention to the enclosure member of FIGURE 10.
FIGURE 12 illustrates a cross-section taken along line 12-12 in FIGURE 11.
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DET~ILED DESRIPTION OP THE DRAWINGS:
" , _ FIGURE 1 is an exploded view illustrating the concept of the present invention. An electrical stimulator enclosure is formed of first and second preformed members 10 and 11 which have generally circular main walls 15 and cylindrical side walis 16. The enclosure is formed by placing the side walls 16 together and jolning them, as by welding. Enclosures of thls type are known to the prior artJ an example being that disclosed in United States Patent No. 4,057,068 issued November 8, 1977, which is co-owned with the present application. As illustrated in FIG~RE 1, members 10 and 11 are identical. Within the context of the present invention, however, only one of the m:embers 10 and ll need have a main wall and a side wall. ~he members 10 and ]l may be any desired shape, but preferably, have a generally cylindri-. .
cal side wall. Within the cylindrical side wall, provision may be made for electrical communication with components housed within the enclosure in a manner similar to that of the abovementioned United States patent, for example. `
A cup 12 is illustrated in FIGURE 1 having a main wall 13 and side;
wall 14, the cup being configured to fit within and substantially fill the enclosure formed by the members 10 and 11. The componen~s forming the electrical s~imulator
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~2q~4 of ~IGURES 3 and 4 with an enclosure member.
FIGURES 7 and 8 illustrate a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
FIGURE 9 illustrates still another preferred embodimen~ of the present invention.
FIGURE 10 illustrates an enclosure member to which the cup of the present invention may be adapted.
FIGUR~ 11 illustrates an adaptation of the cup Oe the present invention to the enclosure member of FIGURE 10.
FIGURE 12 illustrates a cross-section taken along line 12-12 in FIGURE 11.
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DET~ILED DESRIPTION OP THE DRAWINGS:
" , _ FIGURE 1 is an exploded view illustrating the concept of the present invention. An electrical stimulator enclosure is formed of first and second preformed members 10 and 11 which have generally circular main walls 15 and cylindrical side walis 16. The enclosure is formed by placing the side walls 16 together and jolning them, as by welding. Enclosures of thls type are known to the prior artJ an example being that disclosed in United States Patent No. 4,057,068 issued November 8, 1977, which is co-owned with the present application. As illustrated in FIG~RE 1, members 10 and 11 are identical. Within the context of the present invention, however, only one of the m:embers 10 and ll need have a main wall and a side wall. ~he members 10 and ]l may be any desired shape, but preferably, have a generally cylindri-. .
cal side wall. Within the cylindrical side wall, provision may be made for electrical communication with components housed within the enclosure in a manner similar to that of the abovementioned United States patent, for example. `
A cup 12 is illustrated in FIGURE 1 having a main wall 13 and side;
wall 14, the cup being configured to fit within and substantially fill the enclosure formed by the members 10 and 11. The componen~s forming the electrical s~imulator
-4-may be assembled wi~hin the cup 12, the cup 12 then being placed within the member 11, the member 10 being placed over the cup and into engagement with the member 11, members 10 and 11 then being secured to each other, as by welding, for example. The cup 12, as illustrated in FIG. 1, greatly facilitates assembly of the components forming the electrical stimulator, and eliminates the otherwise required step of molding the assembled components. Additionally, the cup assists in the electrical insulation of the components rom the enclosure and serves to isolate the components rom shock and vibration. In a preferred embodiment, to be discussed below, the cup siae wall may also be provided with an antenna coil form when the use of an antenna is required.
In addition to assisting assembly of the stimulator components and insulating and isolating them from the ~` enclosure, the cup which forms a portion of the present invention also serves to secure the components in position within the enclosure. The components are secured within the - cup ln a manner to be described more fully below. Additionally, ~ 20 the cup is provided with means for mechanically limiting its `` movement within the enclosure, thereby limiting movement of the components relative to the enclosure.
A pre~erred system for limiting the movement of the - cup relative to the enclosure is illustrated in FIG~ 2 which is a cross-section of an assembled enclosure o~ the type illustrated in FIG. 1, with a preferred cup embodiment positioned therein. As illustrated, members 10 and 11 each have a main - wall 15 which is generally circular (see FIG. 1~, and side wall 16, the main wall 15 and side wall 16 being joined to each other at a radius 17 The abutment of the side wall 16 o~ members 10 and 11 may be joined together as by weldingf
In addition to assisting assembly of the stimulator components and insulating and isolating them from the ~` enclosure, the cup which forms a portion of the present invention also serves to secure the components in position within the enclosure. The components are secured within the - cup ln a manner to be described more fully below. Additionally, ~ 20 the cup is provided with means for mechanically limiting its `` movement within the enclosure, thereby limiting movement of the components relative to the enclosure.
A pre~erred system for limiting the movement of the - cup relative to the enclosure is illustrated in FIG~ 2 which is a cross-section of an assembled enclosure o~ the type illustrated in FIG. 1, with a preferred cup embodiment positioned therein. As illustrated, members 10 and 11 each have a main - wall 15 which is generally circular (see FIG. 1~, and side wall 16, the main wall 15 and side wall 16 being joined to each other at a radius 17 The abutment of the side wall 16 o~ members 10 and 11 may be joined together as by weldingf
-5-for e~ample. Within the enclosure formed by the members 10 and 11~ there i5 positioned a cup having a main wall 18 and a side wall 19. The cup is provided with a radiu~ 20 at the outside junction of the main wall 18 and side wall 19, which is in substantial conformity with the radius 17 of the member 11. When urged into position, the radius 20 - engages the radius 17 to mechanically prevent movement of the ~- cup within the enclosure formed by the members 10 and 11, and, through friction, restricts rotation of the cup relative to the enclosure. Radius 20 is urged against the radius 17 ~ by a force imparted to the cup, or its contents, by the member ; 10 when the side walls 16 are in abutment and is maintained in that position for so long as the enclosure remains closed.
Preferably, the cup is made of a resilient or flexible material capable of conforming the radius 20 to the radius 17 under the influence of the force lmparted to the cup via the member 10, while resisting deformation under that force which might relieve the engagement between the radius 20 and the radius 17. Polypropylene has bee~ found to be a suitable material for the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 2, as well as the - other embodiments illustrated herein.~ Other materials having the required properties may also be used, Nylonl for example.
The outer surace of the side wall 19 may be provided with a recess 21 above the radius 20 and running around its periphery to act as an antenna coil form. That is, an antenna may be wound or otherwise constructed within the recess 21 when the presence of an antenna is necessary to the operation of the electrical stimulaior in question.
Referring now to FIG. 3, there is illustrated a side - 30 view of another pre~erred embodiment of the cup forming a part of the present invention. The cup of FIGo 3 has a main wall 25 and a side wall 26. Extending from the junction of the main wall 25 and side wall 26 are a plurality of finger-like members 27 (see FIG~ 4) which function in a manner similar to the radius 20 in the embodiment of FIG. 2 to limit movement 5 of the cup within the enclosure. The outer surface of the side wall 26 may be pro~ided with a recess 28 to function as an antenna coil form when appropriate. The recess 28 may be equidistant from the main wall 25. As illustrated, however, the recess 28 is skewed relative to the main wall 25. Thàt is, a plane throu~h the recess 28 is skewed rela~
tive to the plane of the main wall 25. In this manner, an antenna within the recess 28 will be closer ta the main wall .
of enclosure member 10 in one location and claser to the main :- wall of enclosure member 11 in another location so as to - 15 increase its sensiti~ity beyond that which might otherwise be possible if the recess 28 were equidistant in all places ;-~ from the main wall 25 and, thus~ the main walls of the members 10 and 11. Additionally, the skewing of the recess 28 provides a larger antenna coil diameter than would be the case if the recess 28 were equidistant from the main wall 25.
Referring now to FIGS. 5 and 6, the yooperation of , the finger members 27 with the radius 17 of one of the enclosure members is illustrated. ~he cup of FIG. 3 is ; positioned within the enclosure member 11, the members 27 engage the inner surface of the radius I7, and maintain the - main wall 25 of the cup spaced from the main wall 15 of the enclosure member 11~ A force is imparted to the cup, or its contents, by the enclosure member 10 when the side wall -- 16 o~ the enclosure members 10 and 11 are in abutment. This force causes the members 27 to deform and resiliently engage ~, ~
the inner surface of the radius 17 (see FIG. 6~ thereby limiting both lateral and rotational movement o~ the cup within the enclosure. The resilient nature of the cup material causes the members 27 to continually engage the inner surface o~ the radius 17 and maintain the motion limitation provided thereby.
To this point, there has been described preferred embodiments of a cup member in which the electrical components that embody the implantable st:imulator may be assembled and ` 10 which cooperates with the members forming an enclosure for the stimulator to limit movement of the cup member within the enclosure. FIGS. 7 and 8 illustrate a preferred embodiment for restraining the movement of at least some of the components forming the electrical stimulator~ FIGS.7 and 8 show a partial cross-section of a cup member having a main wall 30 and a side wall 31. The junction of the main wall 30 and side wall 31 may be provided with a radius 20 or members 27 as described above with reference to FIGS. 2-6. The inner surface of the main wall 30 is provided with a recess 32 of a size which will accept one of the stimulator ~lectrical components. Extending from the main wall 30 and over the recess 32 is a spring tab 33 which may be unitary with the main wall 30. An electrical component Cl (see FIGo 8) may be inserted within the recess by engaging it agaisnt the spring tab 33 tO push it out of blocking relation relative to the recess 32 and putting the component Cl within the recess 32. Spring tab 33 will then engage the componen~ Cl and urge it against the r~cess wall in a manner which will maintain the component Cl within the recess. Electrical components of the type employed within .
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a body implantable electrical stimulator are manufactured to nominal dimensions within a stated tolerance range. The recess 32 is made large enough to accept all components within the given tolerance range and the spring tab 33 will engage all components within the tolerance range to urge them against the wall o~ the recess 32. Therefore, not only does the cooperation between the recess 32 and spring tab 33 maintain a component in position within the cup, the cooperation of ~ those elements accomodates parts of varying dimensions within ; 10 a known tolerance range (tolerance accumu.lation). One or .~ more recesses 32 and spring tabs 33 may be provided within . .
`. the main wall 30 to accomodate one or more major components ~ of the stimulator to secure and maintain them in position :. within the cup, the cup being limited in its movement within : 15 the enclosure formed by members 10 and 11, as stated above.
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Therefore, componen-ts secured within the cup as illustrated with reference to component Cl are secured against movement within the enclosure as well.
Referring now to FIG. 9, there is shown an alternative . 20 embodiment for securing the assembled electrical components .
within a cup. The cup is formed of a main~wall 35 and a . side wall 36 whose junction may be provided with a radius 20 or finger members 27 as described above with reference to FIGS. 2-6. ~Components C2~C5 are assembled within the cup - 25 and the cup is substantially filled w.ith an encapsulating material 37 which for~.s a matrix surrounding the components C2-C5 to hold them in position relative to each other and secure them within the cup. The cup is then positioned within the enclosure formed by members lQ and 11 with the components , 9_ C2-C5 being maintained in position relative to the cup and the enclosure.
The encapsulating materlal 37 may be silicone rubber or another similar material suitable or use in a body implantable device.
As discussed above, the United States Patent No, 4,057,068 makes provision for electrical communication with the enclosed electrical stimulator.
In the United States patent No. 4,057,068, this is accomplished through the use of a recess within one of the side walls of the enclosure member. A
similar but alternative enclosure member is illustrated in FIGURE 10 which has a main wall 40 and a side wall 41 ioined at a radius such ~s that illus-trated in FIGURES 2J 5 and 6. The side wall 41 is generally cylindrical, having platforms 42 and 43 through which electrical communication may be made.
The enclosure may be completed with a plate welded to the end of the side wall 41 or with a complimentary mcmber having a side wall corresponding to the side wall 41 of the same or a different height than the side wall 41. A
cup for use in an enclosure formed at least in part by a member such as that illustrated in FIGUR~ 10 is illustrated in FIGURE 11. The cup of FIGURE 11 includes a main wall 42 which is generally coextensive with at least a major portion of the main wall 40 of the member of FIW RE 10. A side wall 43 extends from the main wall 42 and encircles an area in which the electrical components are ~o be assembled. The main wall contains a portion 42a which extends beyond that area encircled by the side wall 43. The junction between the main wall 42 and side wall 43 may be provided with a radius 20 or finger memkers 27 as illustrated in FIGURES 2-6. Preferably, the finger members 27 of FIGURES 3-6 extend from the junction of the main wall 42 and side wall 43 as well as from the main wall portion 42a to engage the radius between the main wall 40 and side wall 41 of the enclosure member of FIGURE 10 as described above. Additionally spring tabs 45 and 46 may be provided to engage the platforms 42 and 43, respectively, the spring tab 45 urging the cup member ' ' .
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away from the platform 42 while the spring t~b 46 engages the platform 43 to assist in preven~ing rotation of the cup member within the enclosure member. The spring tab 46 may be used in combination with the main wall portion 42a, or as an alternative to it for the purpose of preventing rotation.
` The spring tabs 45 and 46 facilitate and enhance the engagement between the : radius 20 or finger members 27 with the inner surface of radius 17, as discussed `~ above with reference to FIGURES 2-6. The major functions of the present invention, however, may be accomplished through the use of the radius 20 and/
or finger members 27 without the use of the spring tabs. Within the context of the United States Patent No. 4~057~068J the spring tab 46 may be angled to cooperate with t}le reverse side of platform 31 illustrated in FIGURES
5-7 of the Uni*ed States Patent No. 4,057,068 for the purpose essentially as described herein, with or withoutthe main wall portion 42a.
Obviously many modifications and variations of the present invention are possible in light of the above teachings. For example, the configuration of the main wall and side wall of the cup member described herein may be configured to be accomodated within any enclosure formed of two or more members whether generally cylindrical or otherwise. The cup member need not totally fill the enclosure, but should preferably substantially fill the enclosure to minimize wasted space .
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within the enclosure and maximize the contact between the enclosure member radius and the cup member radius engaging . means. In addition, the use of spring tabs such as 45 and- 46 may or may not be necessary within the context o~ a .~ 5 particular enclosure configuration, that decision being :: within the skill of one ordinarily skilled in the art having ..
~; reference to the teachings herein. Accordingly 9 within the scope of the appended claims, the invention may be practiced other than as specificslly de=cribed.
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Preferably, the cup is made of a resilient or flexible material capable of conforming the radius 20 to the radius 17 under the influence of the force lmparted to the cup via the member 10, while resisting deformation under that force which might relieve the engagement between the radius 20 and the radius 17. Polypropylene has bee~ found to be a suitable material for the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 2, as well as the - other embodiments illustrated herein.~ Other materials having the required properties may also be used, Nylonl for example.
The outer surace of the side wall 19 may be provided with a recess 21 above the radius 20 and running around its periphery to act as an antenna coil form. That is, an antenna may be wound or otherwise constructed within the recess 21 when the presence of an antenna is necessary to the operation of the electrical stimulaior in question.
Referring now to FIG. 3, there is illustrated a side - 30 view of another pre~erred embodiment of the cup forming a part of the present invention. The cup of FIGo 3 has a main wall 25 and a side wall 26. Extending from the junction of the main wall 25 and side wall 26 are a plurality of finger-like members 27 (see FIG~ 4) which function in a manner similar to the radius 20 in the embodiment of FIG. 2 to limit movement 5 of the cup within the enclosure. The outer surface of the side wall 26 may be pro~ided with a recess 28 to function as an antenna coil form when appropriate. The recess 28 may be equidistant from the main wall 25. As illustrated, however, the recess 28 is skewed relative to the main wall 25. Thàt is, a plane throu~h the recess 28 is skewed rela~
tive to the plane of the main wall 25. In this manner, an antenna within the recess 28 will be closer ta the main wall .
of enclosure member 10 in one location and claser to the main :- wall of enclosure member 11 in another location so as to - 15 increase its sensiti~ity beyond that which might otherwise be possible if the recess 28 were equidistant in all places ;-~ from the main wall 25 and, thus~ the main walls of the members 10 and 11. Additionally, the skewing of the recess 28 provides a larger antenna coil diameter than would be the case if the recess 28 were equidistant from the main wall 25.
Referring now to FIGS. 5 and 6, the yooperation of , the finger members 27 with the radius 17 of one of the enclosure members is illustrated. ~he cup of FIG. 3 is ; positioned within the enclosure member 11, the members 27 engage the inner surface of the radius I7, and maintain the - main wall 25 of the cup spaced from the main wall 15 of the enclosure member 11~ A force is imparted to the cup, or its contents, by the enclosure member 10 when the side wall -- 16 o~ the enclosure members 10 and 11 are in abutment. This force causes the members 27 to deform and resiliently engage ~, ~
the inner surface of the radius 17 (see FIG. 6~ thereby limiting both lateral and rotational movement o~ the cup within the enclosure. The resilient nature of the cup material causes the members 27 to continually engage the inner surface o~ the radius 17 and maintain the motion limitation provided thereby.
To this point, there has been described preferred embodiments of a cup member in which the electrical components that embody the implantable st:imulator may be assembled and ` 10 which cooperates with the members forming an enclosure for the stimulator to limit movement of the cup member within the enclosure. FIGS. 7 and 8 illustrate a preferred embodiment for restraining the movement of at least some of the components forming the electrical stimulator~ FIGS.7 and 8 show a partial cross-section of a cup member having a main wall 30 and a side wall 31. The junction of the main wall 30 and side wall 31 may be provided with a radius 20 or members 27 as described above with reference to FIGS. 2-6. The inner surface of the main wall 30 is provided with a recess 32 of a size which will accept one of the stimulator ~lectrical components. Extending from the main wall 30 and over the recess 32 is a spring tab 33 which may be unitary with the main wall 30. An electrical component Cl (see FIGo 8) may be inserted within the recess by engaging it agaisnt the spring tab 33 tO push it out of blocking relation relative to the recess 32 and putting the component Cl within the recess 32. Spring tab 33 will then engage the componen~ Cl and urge it against the r~cess wall in a manner which will maintain the component Cl within the recess. Electrical components of the type employed within .
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a body implantable electrical stimulator are manufactured to nominal dimensions within a stated tolerance range. The recess 32 is made large enough to accept all components within the given tolerance range and the spring tab 33 will engage all components within the tolerance range to urge them against the wall o~ the recess 32. Therefore, not only does the cooperation between the recess 32 and spring tab 33 maintain a component in position within the cup, the cooperation of ~ those elements accomodates parts of varying dimensions within ; 10 a known tolerance range (tolerance accumu.lation). One or .~ more recesses 32 and spring tabs 33 may be provided within . .
`. the main wall 30 to accomodate one or more major components ~ of the stimulator to secure and maintain them in position :. within the cup, the cup being limited in its movement within : 15 the enclosure formed by members 10 and 11, as stated above.
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Therefore, componen-ts secured within the cup as illustrated with reference to component Cl are secured against movement within the enclosure as well.
Referring now to FIG. 9, there is shown an alternative . 20 embodiment for securing the assembled electrical components .
within a cup. The cup is formed of a main~wall 35 and a . side wall 36 whose junction may be provided with a radius 20 or finger members 27 as described above with reference to FIGS. 2-6. ~Components C2~C5 are assembled within the cup - 25 and the cup is substantially filled w.ith an encapsulating material 37 which for~.s a matrix surrounding the components C2-C5 to hold them in position relative to each other and secure them within the cup. The cup is then positioned within the enclosure formed by members lQ and 11 with the components , 9_ C2-C5 being maintained in position relative to the cup and the enclosure.
The encapsulating materlal 37 may be silicone rubber or another similar material suitable or use in a body implantable device.
As discussed above, the United States Patent No, 4,057,068 makes provision for electrical communication with the enclosed electrical stimulator.
In the United States patent No. 4,057,068, this is accomplished through the use of a recess within one of the side walls of the enclosure member. A
similar but alternative enclosure member is illustrated in FIGURE 10 which has a main wall 40 and a side wall 41 ioined at a radius such ~s that illus-trated in FIGURES 2J 5 and 6. The side wall 41 is generally cylindrical, having platforms 42 and 43 through which electrical communication may be made.
The enclosure may be completed with a plate welded to the end of the side wall 41 or with a complimentary mcmber having a side wall corresponding to the side wall 41 of the same or a different height than the side wall 41. A
cup for use in an enclosure formed at least in part by a member such as that illustrated in FIGUR~ 10 is illustrated in FIGURE 11. The cup of FIGURE 11 includes a main wall 42 which is generally coextensive with at least a major portion of the main wall 40 of the member of FIW RE 10. A side wall 43 extends from the main wall 42 and encircles an area in which the electrical components are ~o be assembled. The main wall contains a portion 42a which extends beyond that area encircled by the side wall 43. The junction between the main wall 42 and side wall 43 may be provided with a radius 20 or finger memkers 27 as illustrated in FIGURES 2-6. Preferably, the finger members 27 of FIGURES 3-6 extend from the junction of the main wall 42 and side wall 43 as well as from the main wall portion 42a to engage the radius between the main wall 40 and side wall 41 of the enclosure member of FIGURE 10 as described above. Additionally spring tabs 45 and 46 may be provided to engage the platforms 42 and 43, respectively, the spring tab 45 urging the cup member ' ' .
.; ,~
away from the platform 42 while the spring t~b 46 engages the platform 43 to assist in preven~ing rotation of the cup member within the enclosure member. The spring tab 46 may be used in combination with the main wall portion 42a, or as an alternative to it for the purpose of preventing rotation.
` The spring tabs 45 and 46 facilitate and enhance the engagement between the : radius 20 or finger members 27 with the inner surface of radius 17, as discussed `~ above with reference to FIGURES 2-6. The major functions of the present invention, however, may be accomplished through the use of the radius 20 and/
or finger members 27 without the use of the spring tabs. Within the context of the United States Patent No. 4~057~068J the spring tab 46 may be angled to cooperate with t}le reverse side of platform 31 illustrated in FIGURES
5-7 of the Uni*ed States Patent No. 4,057,068 for the purpose essentially as described herein, with or withoutthe main wall portion 42a.
Obviously many modifications and variations of the present invention are possible in light of the above teachings. For example, the configuration of the main wall and side wall of the cup member described herein may be configured to be accomodated within any enclosure formed of two or more members whether generally cylindrical or otherwise. The cup member need not totally fill the enclosure, but should preferably substantially fill the enclosure to minimize wasted space .
~ .' .
within the enclosure and maximize the contact between the enclosure member radius and the cup member radius engaging . means. In addition, the use of spring tabs such as 45 and- 46 may or may not be necessary within the context o~ a .~ 5 particular enclosure configuration, that decision being :: within the skill of one ordinarily skilled in the art having ..
~; reference to the teachings herein. Accordingly 9 within the scope of the appended claims, the invention may be practiced other than as specificslly de=cribed.
"~,' .
. . :
;: ' .' ' .
:~:
''' ' '.
..~ ' ' ;: - . . :. . :
Claims (9)
PROPERTY OR PRIVILEGE IS CLAIMED ARE DEFINED AS FOLLOWS:
1. In a body implantable stimulator of the type having interconnected components housed within a preformed enclosure, the improvement which comprises insulating and isolating cup means formed of a resilient, non-conductive material and configured to accept said components and substantially fill said enclosure, said cup means further comprising resilient means for maintaining at least one of said components in a preselected position within said cup means.
2. The body implantable stimulator of claim 1 wherein said cup means further comprises means engaging said enclosure for mechanically limiting movement of said cup means within said enclosure.
3. The body implantable stimulator of claim 2 wherein said engaging means comprises a plurality of extending members.
4. The body implantable stimulator of claim 2 wherein said engaging means comprises radius means.
5. The body implantable stimulator of claim 1 wherein said component position maintaining means comprises an encapsulating material substantially filling said cup means.
6. The body implantable stimulator of claim 1 wherein said component position maintaining means comprises tab means engaging at least some of said components.
7. The body implantable stimulator of claim 1 wherein the inner surface of said cup means is provided with at least one recess configured to accept one of said components, said component position maintaining means comprising means unitary with said cup means resiliently engaging said one component to maintain it within a recess while allowing for differences in size in the component within said recess.
8. The body implantable stimulator of claim 1 wherein said enclos-ure is formed by a plurality of joined members to define a main wall and a side wall meeting at a junction, said cup means includes a main wall generally co-extensive with the enclosure main wall, and said cup means further comprises a side wall provided with antenna coil form means.
9. The body implantable stimulator of claim 8 wherein said antenna coil form means lies generally within a plane which is skewed relative to said cup means main wall.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US79363877A | 1977-05-04 | 1977-05-04 | |
| US793,638 | 1977-05-04 |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA1102414A true CA1102414A (en) | 1981-06-02 |
Family
ID=25160426
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA302,564A Expired CA1102414A (en) | 1977-05-04 | 1978-05-03 | Enclosure system for body implantable electrical systems |
Country Status (7)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| JP (1) | JPS53137593A (en) |
| AU (1) | AU520235B2 (en) |
| CA (1) | CA1102414A (en) |
| DE (1) | DE2819500A1 (en) |
| FR (1) | FR2389384B1 (en) |
| GB (1) | GB1600636A (en) |
| SE (1) | SE439879B (en) |
Families Citing this family (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GB2124495B (en) * | 1982-07-27 | 1986-10-15 | Telectronics Pty Ltd | Prosthetic package and method of making same |
Family Cites Families (4)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US3357434A (en) * | 1964-04-06 | 1967-12-12 | Avco Corp | Inductively linked receiver |
| GB1354014A (en) * | 1971-09-24 | 1974-06-05 | Devices Ltd | Implantable cardiac pacer and method of construction |
| US3888260A (en) * | 1972-06-28 | 1975-06-10 | Univ Johns Hopkins | Rechargeable demand inhibited cardiac pacer and tissue stimulator |
| US4041956A (en) * | 1976-02-17 | 1977-08-16 | Coratomic, Inc. | Pacemakers of low weight and method of making such pacemakers |
-
1978
- 1978-04-18 JP JP4579978A patent/JPS53137593A/en active Granted
- 1978-04-18 AU AU35215/78A patent/AU520235B2/en not_active Expired
- 1978-05-03 DE DE19782819500 patent/DE2819500A1/en not_active Ceased
- 1978-05-03 FR FR7813110A patent/FR2389384B1/fr not_active Expired
- 1978-05-03 CA CA302,564A patent/CA1102414A/en not_active Expired
- 1978-05-03 SE SE7805095A patent/SE439879B/en not_active IP Right Cessation
- 1978-05-04 GB GB17811/78A patent/GB1600636A/en not_active Expired
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| SE7805095L (en) | 1978-11-05 |
| AU520235B2 (en) | 1982-01-21 |
| DE2819500A1 (en) | 1978-11-09 |
| FR2389384B1 (en) | 1982-03-26 |
| JPS6211866B2 (en) | 1987-03-14 |
| GB1600636A (en) | 1981-10-21 |
| SE439879B (en) | 1985-07-08 |
| AU3521578A (en) | 1979-10-25 |
| JPS53137593A (en) | 1978-12-01 |
| FR2389384A1 (en) | 1978-12-01 |
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| MKEX | Expiry |