Larry D Devor

US Patent:

6741892, May 25, 2004

Filed:

Mar 5, 2001

Appl. No.:

09/799214

Inventors:

Paul M. Meadows - La Crescenta CA
Larry D. Devor - Menifee CA
Stephen L. Goldman - Stevenson Ranch CA

Assignee:

Advanced Bionics Corporation - Sylmar CA

International Classification:

A61N 1375

US Classification:

607116, 607 37, 607 46, 607117

Abstract:

A moveable contact connector system provides easy lead insertion, lead retention, and reliable electrical connection for implantable devices. The connector system may be used with in-line leads commonly found in such applications. Moveable contacts are provided in the connector, which contacts are placed in a first position for easy lead insertion, and in a second position for lead retention. The second position also provides a good electrical connection between the moveable connector contacts and the lead contacts. Multiple means for moving said at least one moveable contact between the first and second positions are described. A first embodiment uses a rotatable cam which is rotated to align the cam lodes with said at least one moveable contact, pushing the movable contacts against the lead contacts. The second and third embodiments use a sliding key to force said at least one moveable contact against the lead contacts.

US Patent:

6609029, Aug 19, 2003

Filed:

Dec 28, 2000

Appl. No.:

09/750634

Inventors:

Carla M. Mann - Los Angeles CA
Larry D. Devor - Menifee CA
Stephen L. Goldman - Stevenson Ranch CA
Donald L. Sandford - Northridge CA
Grace Ying Yang Jang - Calabasas CA

Assignee:

Advanced Bionics Corporation - Sylmar CA

International Classification:

A61N 1375

US Classification:

607 37

Abstract:

A straight-forward and tool-less mechanism is provided for securing lead wires to an implantable neurostimulator, or similar medical device. In one embodiment, a clip lock mechanism is pivotally connected to the enclosure of the medical device, which enclosure also includes at least one receptacle with contacts to the components within the device. The proximal end of the lead wires terminate in a connector, including at least one plug and at least one pin with contacts corresponding to the electrodes or other devices along the distal end of the lead. The pin is inserted into the receptacle, thus completing the connection between the pin and receptacle contacts, and the clip is pivoted over the plug. The plug preferably has depressions that provide a clear visual and tactual indication of the position of the properly placed clip.