Shape memory segmented detachable coil

Abstract

The shape memory segmented detachable coil assembly includes a plurality of hollow, tubular coil segments, and a plurality of connector members, with adjacent coil segments connected together by the connector members. The connector members are currently preferably hollow, tubular connector members that are advantageously detachable from selected portions of the coil segments by application of energy to one or more selected connector members. A heat activation member is used for heating one or more selected connector members to disconnect selected portions of the coil assembly. The heat activation member typically can be advanced axially through or over the coil assembly, and currently preferably comprises a fiber optic, although the heat activation member can also comprise a heat pipe, or a device for generating heat by RF energy or electrical resistance.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.