Open AccessThermoset Shape Memory Polymer Variable Stiffness 4D Robotic Catheters
Author(s) -
Mattmann Michael,
De Marco Carmela,
Briatico Francesco,
Tagliabue Stefano,
Colusso Aron,
Chen XiangZhong,
Lussi Jonas,
Chautems Christophe,
Pané Salvador,
Nelson Bradley
Publication year - 2022
Publication title -
advanced science
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 5.388
H-Index - 100
ISSN - 2198-3844
DOI - 10.1002/advs.202103277
Subject(s) - thermosetting polymer , materials science , stiffness , thermoplastic , miniaturization , composite material , design for manufacturability , rigidity (electromagnetism) , polymer , mechanical engineering , nanotechnology , engineering
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.