| abstract |
Systems capable of providing force and displacement outputs sufficient to actuate remote mechanisms to enhance catheter capabilities include both low-force and remote actuation arrangements. The remote actuation and low-force actuation systems may be used for catheter distal end deflection, sensor deployment, feedback controlled movement, fluid delivery rate and directional control applications as well as catheter retention mechanism deployment. Remote actuation mechanism may employ phase change based, magnetic based or hydraulic based. Low-force remote actuation structures include a coaxially-extending pull wire, a reaction member, and a remote mechanism responsive to the pull force. |