Release mechanism utilizing shape memory polymer material
US6102933A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 5, 1999 |
| Grant date | Aug 15, 2000 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 5, 2019 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61B2017/12077
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Microfabricated therapeutic actuators are fabricated using a shape memory polymer (SMP), a polyurethane-based material that undergoes a phase transformation at a specified temperature (Tg). At a temperature above temperature Tg material is soft and can be easily reshaped into another configuration. As the temperature is lowered below temperature Tg the new shape is fixed and locked in as long as the material stays below temperature Tg. Upon reheating the material to a temperature above Tg, the material will return to its original shape. By the use of such SMP material, SMP microtubing can be used as a release actuator for the delivery of embolic coils through catheters into aneurysms, for example. The microtubing can be manufactured in various sizes and the phase change temperature Tg is determinate for an intended temperature target and intended use.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.