Artificial muscles to control the flow in hollow organs

• Research unit: INNOSUISSE
• Project number: 9712.2;4 PFLS-LS

Short description (English)

Artificial muscles to control the flow in hollow organs

Short description (French)

Artificial muscles to control the flow in hollow organs

Abstract (English)

The aim of the present study is to develop a module based on artificial muscle technology (called ¿shutter¿) able to change its inner diameter upon request. The key component of the artificial muscle is the nitinol fiber. A microcomputer powered by a pace maker like battery handles nitinol activation. One or more shutters would be placed around hollow organs in order to control the flow of fluids inside said organs. Applications are to control the flow of an artero-venous fistula and replace urinary sphincters to treat severe incontinence..

Abstract (French)

The aim of the present study is to develop a module based on artificial muscle technology (called ¿shutter¿) able to change its inner diameter upon request. The key component of the artificial muscle is the nitinol fiber. A microcomputer powered by a pace maker like battery handles nitinol activation. One or more shutters would be placed around hollow organs in order to control the flow of fluids inside said organs. Applications are to control the flow of an artero-venous fistula and replace urinary sphincters to treat severe incontinence..