Thermoset Shape Memory Polymer Variable Stiffness 4D Robotic Catheters
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Date
2022-01-05
Publication Type
Journal Article
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yes
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Abstract
Variable stiffness catheters are typically composed of an encapsulated core. The core is usually composed of a low melting point alloy (LMPA) or a thermoplastic polymer (TP). In both cases, there is a need to encapsulate the core with an elastic material. This imposes a limit to the volume of variable stiffness (VS) material and limits miniaturization. This paper proposes a new approach that relies on the use of thermosetting materials. The variable stiffness catheter (VSC) proposed in this work eliminates the necessity for an encapsulation layer and is made of a unique biocompatible thermoset polymer with an embedded heating system. This significantly reduces the final diameter, improves manufacturability, and increases safety in the event of complications. The device can be scaled to sub-millimeter dimensions, while maintaining a high stiffness change. In addition, integration into a magnetic actuation system allows for precise actuation of one or multiple tools.
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published
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Journal / series
Volume
9 (1)
Pages / Article No.
2103277
Publisher
Wiley-VCH
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Edition / version
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Software
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Date collected
Date created
Subject
variable stiffness; catheters; thermoset polymers; shape memory polymers; composite materials
Organisational unit
03627 - Nelson, Bradley J. / Nelson, Bradley J.
08705 - Gruppe Pané Vidal
02620 - Inst. f. Robotik u. Intelligente Systeme / Inst. Robotics and Intelligent Systems
Notes
Funding
743217 - Soft Micro Robotics (EC)
771565C - Highly Integrated Nanoscale Robots for Targeted Delivery to the Central Nervous System (EC)
771565C - Highly Integrated Nanoscale Robots for Targeted Delivery to the Central Nervous System (EC)