Abstract:
A connector circuit assembly for use in an implantable medical device, and a method of making the assembly that includes a core portion formed of a thermoplastic material using either an injection molding process or a machining process. This core portion is adapted to be fitted with at least one electrically-conductive circuit component such as a connector member, a set-screw block, or a conductive jumper member. In one embodiment of the invention, the core portion includes multiple receptacles or other spaces that are adapted to be loaded with the various circuit components. The core assembly is positioned into a second-shot mold assembly, and a second thermoplastic material is injected into the mold so that the second thermoplastic material extends over and adheres to the core portion and the circuit component.
Abstract:
A connector assembly for coupling to an implantable medical device includes a core element formed of a first thermoplastic material shaped to receive a connector member for receiving a lead. The connector assembly further includes a circuit member positioned adjacent to the core element. The circuit member includes a portion extending along the core element to the connector member and an antenna structure extending over a portion of the core element outer surface.
Abstract:
The disclosure describes an axial lead connector assembly for an implantable medical device (IMD). The lead connector assembly facilitates electrical connection between an implantable medical lead and circuitry contained within the housing of an IMD. A connector header defines an axial stack bore to receive an axial stack of in-line connector components. The connector components define a common lead bore to receive a proximal end of an implantable lead. The in-line stack of connector components may include seals, electrical connector elements, a strain relief, and a locking device, each of which defines a passage that forms part of the lead bore.
Abstract:
An improved circuit assembly for use in an implantable medical device, and a method of making the assembly is disclosed. The circuit assembly includes a core portion formed of a thermoplastic material using either an injection molding process or a machining process. This core portion is adapted to be fitted with at least one electrically-conductive circuit component such as a connector member, a set-screw block, or a conductive jumper member. In one embodiment of the invention, the core portion includes multiple receptacles or other spaces that are adapted to be loaded with the various circuit components. Core portion may further be provided with groove and ridge members designed to position and retain the circuit components at predetermined locations around the various surfaces of the core portion. One or more of the circuit components may be welded or soldered together to form electrical contacts. Next, this loaded core assembly is prepared for an overmolding process by loading bushings into apertures of the various conductive circuit components to prevent these apertures from receiving thermoplastic material during the overmold process. The prepared and loaded core assembly is positioned into a second-shot mold assembly, and a second-shot of thermoplastic material is injected into the mold. This thermoplastic material is heated to a temperature at, or above, the melting point of the material to create a bond between the core portion and the overmold material. To achieve this, the ratio of the mass of the core element as compared to that of the overmold material is made as small as possible so that the heat energy from the mold is able to adequately heat the core portion. Bonding may further be enhanced by providing ridges on the surface of the core portion that are melted during the overmold process, and/or by pre-heating the core portion prior to injecting the second shot of thermoplastic material into the mold.
Abstract:
Apparatus and method according to the disclosure relate to minimizing gaps between a substantially planar cardiac-sensing electrode and a shroud member utilizing a so-called interference-fit. For example, a relatively recessed area or aperture formed in an exemplary resin-based shroud member has slightly reduced dimensions relative to the electrode and requires compression forces during assembly (e.g., manually or in an automated process including a press, a tool or other means). The interference-fit promotes a very tight fit (or seal) between the metallic electrode and the resin-based shroud member and, importantly, minimizes gaps. Additionally, discrete interference structures promote fluid tight seals between the electrode and a recess or aperture adapted to receive the electrode.
Abstract:
A sectional interconnect ribbon for use in a connector assembly for an implantable medical device is formed of two ore more separately-formed sections which are mechanically joined together to form an integral assembly. The sectional interconnect ribbon, as well as at least one connection element, is embedded within the connector assembly.
Abstract:
An implantable medical device of the type formed of a hermetically sealed enclosure attached on a enclosure attachment surface thereof to a module attachment surface of a pre-formed header module is disclosed. The pre-formed header module is attached to the enclosure attachment surface through use of a retention structure extending away from the enclosure surface into proximity with a portion of the pre-formed header module when the enclosure and module attachment surfaces are aligned with respect to one another. The retention structure comprises a bendable member that is bent from an initial position allowing the pre-formed header module to be seated with respect to the hermetically sealed enclosure to a retention position making an attachment against a bend engaging portion of the pre-formed header module. The bendable member is the free end portion of an attachment tab having a tab base attached at a predetermined location of the hermetically sealed enclosure such that the upstanding attachment tab extends in a predetermined direction away from the enclosure surface and the free end of the attachment tab is bendable laterally with respect to the predetermined direction against the bend engaging portion. Adhesive is then applied to the retention mechanism and the space between the enclosure attachment surface and the module attachment surface.
Abstract:
A connector circuit assembly for use in an implantable medical device, and a method of making the assembly that includes a core portion formed of a thermoplastic material using either an injection molding process or a machining process. This core portion is adapted to be fitted with at least one electrically-conductive circuit component such as a connector member, a set-screw block, or a conductive jumper member. In one embodiment of the invention, the core portion includes multiple receptacles or other spaces that are adapted to be loaded with the various circuit components. The core assembly is positioned into a second-shot mold assembly, and a second thermoplastic material is injected into the mold so that the second thermoplastic material extends over and adheres to the core portion and the circuit component.
Abstract:
A connector block providing electrical coupling to electronic componentry of an implantable medical device. The implantable medical device has a case containing the electronic componentry. A preformed electrically conductive “wireform” mounted with respect to a structurally rigid polymer frame forming a plurality of electrical contacts. Potting is formed in situ with liquid thermoset polymer substantially filling any voids in the connector block and forming a thermoset polymer gasket between the connector block and the case.