Implantable device system

Abstract

To obtain an implantable device system capable of performing stable communication.SOLUTION: In an implantable device system, an extracorporeal device 2 comprises an electromagnetic and vector potential generation / reception device 21, and an implantable device 1 comprises an electromagnetic and vector potential generation / reception device 14 that receives a vector potential generated by the electromagnetic and vector potential generation / reception device 21. The extracorporeal device 2 further comprises: a communication circuit 23 that generates a modulation signal indicating transmission data; and a drive circuit 22 that drives the electromagnetic and vector potential generation / reception device 21 while modulating the vector potential on the basis of the modulation signal, and causes the electromagnetic and vector potential generation / reception device 21 to generate a modulated vector potential. The implantable device 1 comprises a communication circuit 13 that demodulates the modulated vector potential to extract the modulation signal, generates transmission data, and outputs the transmission data to a specific functional unit 11.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to implantable device systems. [Background technology]

[0002] Various implantable devices have been proposed for the purpose of electrical stimulation therapy to living organisms and monitoring biological information (see, for example, Patent Documents 1 and 2). Electromagnetic induction, magnetic resonance, ultrasound, etc. are used to supply power to and communicate with such implantable devices. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2017-164192 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2023-040095 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] When the implantable device is equipped with a housing made of a biocompatible metal such as titanium or a cobalt alloy, or an electromagnetic shield for noise suppression, the internal electronic components are placed in an electromagnetically shielded environment due to the electromagnetic shielding properties, making it difficult to communicate with the implantable device based on the above-mentioned electromagnetic induction, magnetic field resonance, etc.

[0005] The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and has an object to provide an implantable device system that can stably communicate with an implantable device. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] An implantable device system according to the present invention comprises an implantable device equipped with a specific function unit that performs a specific function, and an extracorporeal device. The extracorporeal device comprises an electromagnetic and vector potential generation and sensing device, and the implantable device comprises an electromagnetic and vector potential generation and sensing device that senses the vector potential generated by the electromagnetic and vector potential generation and sensing device. The extracorporeal device further comprises a first communication circuit that generates a modulated signal indicative of transmission data, and a drive circuit that drives the electromagnetic and vector potential generation and sensing device while modulating the vector potential based on the modulated signal, causing the electromagnetic and vector potential generation and sensing device to generate a modulated vector potential. The implantable device also comprises a second communication circuit that demodulates the modulated vector potential to extract the modulated signal, generates transmission data, and outputs it to the specific function unit.

[0007] An implantable device system according to the present invention comprises an implantable device equipped with a specific function unit that performs a specific function, and an extracorporeal device. The extracorporeal device comprises an electromagnetic and vector potential generation and sensing device, and the implantable device comprises an electromagnetic and vector potential generation and sensing device that senses the vector potential generated by the electromagnetic and vector potential generation and sensing device. The extracorporeal device further comprises a first communication circuit that generates a modulated signal indicative of transmission data, and a drive circuit that drives the electromagnetic and vector potential generation and sensing device while modulating the vector potential based on the modulated signal, causing the electromagnetic and vector potential generation and sensing device to generate a modulated vector potential, and the implantable device comprises a second communication circuit that demodulates the modulated vector potential and extracts the modulated signal. Furthermore, the electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device comprises a solenoid coil extending along the curved coil axis, and generates a vector potential with the solenoid coil, the electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device comprises a wire extending in the direction of the vector potential and senses the vector potential with the wire, and the extracorporeal device is positioned so that the wire is located on the inside of the curvature. Also, the implantable device transmits monitoring data collected by the specific function unit to the second electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device via the second communication circuit, and causes the second electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device to generate electromagnetic and vector potentials corresponding to the monitoring data.

[0008] A communication method according to the present invention generates a modulated signal indicative of transmission data in an extracorporeal device, generates a modulated vector potential while modulating the vector potential based on the modulated signal in an electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device, senses the vector potential generated by the electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device in an implantable device, demodulates the sensed vector potential to extract a modulated signal, generates transmission data and outputs it to a specific function unit, generates an electromagnetic and vector potential corresponding to the monitoring data collected by the specific function unit in a second electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device in the implantable device, and senses the electromagnetic and vector potential generated by the second electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device in the extracorporeal device in a first electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to the present invention, an implantable device system capable of stably communicating with an implantable device can be obtained. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of an implantable device system according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing an example of the electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device 21 and the electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device 14 in FIG. 1. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a perspective view illustrating the vector potential generated by the electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device 21 and sensed by the electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device 14 in FIG. 1. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing another configuration example of the electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device 14. [Figure 5]FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing yet another configuration example of the electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device 14. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing another configuration example of the electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device 14. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing a configuration of an implantable device system according to the second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the power supply unit 12A according to the first embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a perspective view showing an example of an electromagnetic and vector potential generation and sensing device 21 and an electromagnetic and vector potential generation and sensing device 14 in embodiment 3. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of an electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device 14 in embodiment 3 of the present invention. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing an example of an electromagnetic and vector potential generation and sensing device 21 and an electromagnetic and vector potential generation and sensing device 14 in embodiment 4. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of an electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device 14 in embodiment 5 of the present invention. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a perspective view showing an example of an electromagnetic and vector potential generation and sensing device 21 and an electromagnetic and vector potential generation and sensing device 14 in embodiment 5. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of an electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device 14 in embodiment 6 of the present invention. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of the arrangement of the electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device 14 in an implantable device in an implantable device system pertaining to embodiment 7. [Figure 16]FIG. 16 is a perspective view showing an example of an electromagnetic and vector potential generation and sensing device 21 and an electromagnetic and vector potential generation and sensing device 14 in embodiment 8. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an example of a solenoid coil 41 of an electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device 21 in embodiment 9. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0012] Embodiment 1

[0013] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of an implantable device system pertaining to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. For example, as shown in FIG. 1, the implantable device system comprises an implantable device 1 and an extracorporeal device 2. The implantable device 1 is a device (electronic device) that is implanted in a living organism (such as a human body or an animal), and comprises a specific function unit 11 that performs specific functions (such as treatment functions such as electrical stimulation therapy and medication, auxiliary functions that assist biological functions such as a pacemaker, and monitoring functions that measure and monitor specific biological information). Signals sensed by an electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device 14 described below are transmitted to this specific function unit 11 via a communication circuit 13 described below, and the specific function is carried out by the specific function unit 11. At the same time, monitoring data collected by various sensors provided in the specific function unit 11 is transmitted via the communication circuit 13 to the electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device 14, and signals generated by the electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device 14 are transmitted to the extracorporeal device 2.

[0014] For example, this implantable device 1 is a bioimplantable medical device such as an artificial retina device, an artificial cochlear device, an artificial heart device, various electrical stimulation devices (pacemakers, defibrillators, sleep apnea syndrome treatment devices, tremor treatment devices, diabetes treatment devices using radiofrequency irradiation, etc.), an implantable metronidonic PDT (photodynamic therapy) device, a drug delivery system, an implantable intraosseous fluid modulator for osteoporosis treatment, a resonant heating stent device, an oxidation-reduction potential measuring device for monitoring the status of the microflora in the gastrointestinal tract, a glucose monitoring device, etc.

[0015] The extracorporeal device 2 also performs wireless communication with the implantable device 1 in a non-contact manner.

[0016] In addition to the specific function unit 11, the implantable device 1 also includes a power supply unit 12, a communication circuit 13, and an electromagnetic and vector potential generation and sensing device 14. The power supply unit 12 supplies power to the specific function unit 11 and the communication circuit 13 using existing methods. The implantable device 1 also includes a housing 1a with electromagnetic shielding properties, and as shown in FIG. 1, the electromagnetic and vector potential generation and sensing device 14, the communication circuit 13, and the like are disposed within the housing 1a.

[0017] The extracorporeal device 2 includes an electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device 21, a drive circuit 22, a communication circuit 23, and a controller 24.

[0018] The electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device 21 generates a vector potential using an electromagnetic and solenoid coil, and the electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device 14 senses the vector potential generated by the electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device 21. Furthermore, the electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device 14 senses the electromagnetic and vector potential generated by the electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device 21, and generates an electromagnetic signal.

[0019] Fig. 2 is a perspective view showing an example of the electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device 21 and the electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device 14 in Fig. 1. Fig. 3 is a perspective view that explains the vector potential that is generated by the electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device 21 in Fig. 1 and sensed by the electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device 14.

[0020] In this embodiment, as shown in Figures 2 and 3, for example, the electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device 21 includes one or more solenoid coils 41 extending along a curved coil axis, and the electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device 14 includes wires 51 extending in the direction of the vector potential VP(t) generated in the solenoid coils 41. Here, the wires 51 are linear conductors.

[0021] Furthermore, as shown in, for example, FIGS. 2 and 3, the extracorporeal device 2 (that is, the solenoid coil 41) is arranged so that one or more wires 51 are located in the inner direction of the curvature of the coil axis of the solenoid coil 41.

[0022] When a plurality of solenoid coils 41 are used, the plurality of solenoid coils 41 are electrically connected in series or in parallel. When a plurality of wires 51 are used, the plurality of wires 51 are electrically connected in series or in parallel.

[0023] As shown in FIG. 3, the solenoid coil 41 is disposed so that its coil axis (the winding centerline of the solenoid coil 41) extends within a plane 1P perpendicular to the wire 51. Here, the coil axis is shaped like an open curve, and the angle as seen from the wire 51 at each position on the coil axis from one end of the solenoid coil 41 to the other end monotonically increases or decreases. Therefore, the solenoid coil 41 forms an opening in the inward direction of the curve. For example, a living body is placed in the opening so that the solenoid coil 41 is placed along the body surface, and thereby the implantable device 1 (wire 51) is placed in the inward direction of the curve of the solenoid coil 41.

[0024] The coil shaft is preferably shaped like an arc with the wire 51 at its center, and the solenoid coil 41 is preferably arranged so that the wire 51 is located at the center of curvature of the coil shaft.

[0025] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the central angle θ of the arc of the coil axis (the central angle of a sector with the arc as its periphery) is set to 180 degrees or less. Because the sensed vector potential increases in proportion to this central angle θ, it is preferable that this central angle θ is large. This central angle θ is set to any angle greater than 0 degrees and less than 360 degrees, and may further be (a) any angle greater than 0 degrees and less than 180 degrees, (b) any angle greater than 0 degrees and less than 90 degrees, (c) any angle greater than 0 degrees and less than 45 degrees, or (d) any angle greater than 0.5 degrees and less than 360 degrees, or further, (e) any angle greater than 0.5 degrees and less than 180 degrees, (f) any angle greater than 0.5 degrees and less than 90 degrees, (g) any angle greater than 0.5 degrees and less than 45 degrees, or (h) any angle greater than 0.5 degrees and less than 25 degrees, or (i) any angle greater than 2 degrees. and may be any angle less than 360 degrees, (j) any angle greater than or equal to 2 degrees and less than 180 degrees, (k) any angle greater than or equal to 2 degrees and less than 90 degrees, (l) any angle greater than or equal to 2 degrees and less than 45 degrees, (m) any angle greater than or equal to 2 degrees and less than 25 degrees, or (n) any angle greater than or equal to 5 degrees and less than 360 degrees, (o) any angle greater than or equal to 5 degrees and less than 180 degrees, (p) any angle greater than or equal to 5 degrees and less than 90 degrees, (q) any angle greater than or equal to 5 degrees and less than 45 degrees, or (r) any angle greater than or equal to 5 degrees and less than 25 degrees.

[0026] It should be noted that the ideal curve for the shape of the coil axis is an arc that is part of a circle, but for convenience of manufacturing and arrangement, it does not necessarily have to be an arc; an ellipse or some other smoothly curved shape will suffice, and if wire 51 is arranged in the concave (inward) direction, a relatively large vector potential can be sensed.

[0027] Here, the AC current induced in the wire 51 will be described. For example, as shown in FIG. 3, a vector potential VP(t) is generated parallel to the direction of the current flowing through the solenoid coil 41. The vector potential VP(t) decreases with increasing distance from the solenoid coil 41, but because the solenoid coil 41 is wound around a curved coil axis, the vector potential VP(t) concentrates in the inward direction of the wire 51, increasing the intensity of the vector potential VP(t). An electric field is generated as the vector potential VP(t) changes over time, and a current I(t) corresponding to this electric field flows through the wire 51.

[0028] At the same time, the direction of magnetic flux leaking from both ends of one or more solenoid coils 41, which extend along the curved coil axis of the electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device 21, also interlinks with the longitudinal direction of wire 51, and therefore an induced current is induced inside wire 51.

[0029] In other words, a vector potential is generated throughout the entire space inside the living body, and its time derivative becomes an electric field, which can be applied evenly to the space inside the living body. At this time, if there is a metal wire inside the living body, a voltage proportional to the dot product of the vector in the length direction of the metal wire and the vector potential is generated. Therefore, this method can supply power and signals to the inside of the living body.

[0030] Furthermore, the vector potential VP(t) and the induced current simultaneously appear in the wire 51, which makes it possible to supply power to an implantable device located inside the living body and also to transmit / transmit power at lower power than with conventional methods such as magnetic coupling, thereby realizing efficient and stable power transmission and / or signal communication at the same time.

[0031] Furthermore, draw-out lead wires 511a and 512a are connected to both ends of line segment wire 51. Specifically, one end of wire 51 is connected to the other end of draw-out lead wire 511a, one end of draw-out lead wire 511a is connected to the other input terminal of tuning circuit 70, and one output terminal of tuning circuit 70 is connected to the other input terminal of communication circuit 13 (described below) or distributor 81, etc. Meanwhile, one end of draw-out lead wire 512a is connected to the other end of wire 51, the other end of draw-out lead wire 512a is connected to one input terminal of tuning circuit 70, and the other output terminal of tuning circuit 70 is connected to, for example, communication circuit 13 (described below) or one end of distributor 81, etc.

[0032] The tuning circuit 70 is a circuit that adjusts the output impedance so that the potential difference between the output terminals is maximized. Although it is preferable that the tuning circuit 70 includes a resonant circuit, it is not necessary that the tuning circuit 70 include a resonant circuit.

[0033] Furthermore, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, compared to a cylindrical vector potential device, the vector potential is stronger at the center of curvature of the arc of the coil axis of the solenoid coil 41, and the further away from that center of curvature, the weaker the vector potential. However, because the wire 51 is located near the center of curvature of the arc of the coil axis of the solenoid coil 41, and the strength of the vector potential VP(t) is higher than the vector potential strength at the locations of the draw-out lead wires 511a, 512a, which are further away from the center of curvature of the arc of the coil axis, a potential difference arises due to the difference in vector potential strength, and a current flows or a potential difference occurs between the wire 51 and the draw-out lead wires 511a, 512a. Furthermore, in the communication circuit 13, which will be described later, the potential difference or current between its input terminal and output terminal is detected and demodulated, a modulated signal is extracted, and transmission data is generated and output to the specific function unit 11.

[0034] Furthermore, implantable devices that use such vector potential coils can be further enhanced with the function of measuring and storing long-term physical data, such as measurement data of cardiac function and measurement data of myocardial strain, and by deriving this data simultaneously with transmission and reception and power transmission and reception (in this specification, “·” means “or / and”), they can also be used in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases such as heart disease and diabetes.

[0035] FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing another example configuration of the electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device 14. The wire 51 of the electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device 14 need not be linear, and as another modification, it may be in the form of multiple discontinuous line segments, as shown in FIG. 4, for example. It is also preferable that these line-segment-shaped wires 51 have different lengths. As shown in FIG. 4, the wire 51 includes two line segments 51a and 51b, and line segments 51a and 51b are formed so as to be on a single straight line. Furthermore, one end of line segment 51a is connected to the other end of draw-out lead wire 511b, one end of draw-out lead wire 511b is connected to the other input terminal of tuning circuit 70, and one output terminal of tuning circuit 70 is connected to the other input terminal of, for example, the communication circuit 13 or distributor 81, which will be described below. On the other hand, one end of line segment 51b is connected to the other end of lead wire 512b, one end of lead wire 512b is connected to one input terminal of tuning circuit 70, and the other output terminal of tuning circuit 70 is connected to one input terminal of, for example, communication circuit 13 or distributor 81 described below.

[0036] The other ends of the line segments 51a and 51b are electrically open.

[0037] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the magnitude of the current is proportional to the length of the line segment, so the length of line segment 51a is made shorter than the length of line segment 51b, although line segment 51a may be longer than line segment 51b.

[0038] Furthermore, a potential difference occurs between the voltage E1(t) generated on the wire 51a and the voltage E2(t) generated on the wire 51b due to a change in the vector potential VP(t) over time, and reception is performed by detecting this voltage difference. In order to further increase this voltage difference, it is further preferable to insert a tuning circuit 70 between the line segments 51a, 51b and a circuit such as the communication circuit 13 or the distributor 81.

[0039] Fig. 5 is a perspective view showing yet another example configuration of the electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device 14. Furthermore, as another variation of the wires 51 of the electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device 14, they may be in the form of multiple discontinuous line segments, as shown in Fig. 5. Furthermore, it is preferable that these line-segment shaped wires 51 have different lengths.

[0040] 5, wire 51 includes two line segments 51a-1 and 51b-1, and line segments 51a-1 and 51b-1 are formed to be on a single straight line. One end of line segment 51a-1 is connected to the other end of lead wire 511c, one end of lead wire 511c is connected to the other input terminal of tuning circuit 70, and one output terminal of tuning circuit 70 is connected to the other input terminal of a circuit such as communication circuit 13 or distributor 81. The other end of line segment 51a-1 is connected to one end of capacitance section C1 (e.g., stray capacitance), and the other end of capacitance section C1 is connected to reference potential point #1. For example, reference potential point #1 is the side wall of the housing of the implantable device.

[0041] Meanwhile, one end of line segment 51b-1 is connected to the other end of lead wire 512c, which is in turn connected to one input terminal of tuning circuit 70, and the other output terminal of tuning circuit 70 is connected to one input terminal of a circuit such as communication circuit 13 or distributor 81. The other end of line segment 51b-1 is connected to one end of capacitance unit C2 (e.g., stray capacitance), and the other end of capacitance unit C2 is connected to reference potential point #2. Reference potential point #1 and reference potential point #2 may be located at locations with different vector potential strengths. The housing and line segments 51a-1 and 51b-1 may be made of different materials. For example, the housing may be made of metal, and line segments 51a-1 and 51b-1 may be made of SnO, ITO, conductive plastic, conductive rubber, or the like.

[0042] In addition, in this modified example, a potential difference occurs between the input terminal and output terminal of a circuit such as communication circuit 13 or distributor 81, between voltages E1(t) generated on wiring 51a-1 and E2(t) generated on wiring 51b-1, as in the example shown in Fig. 4. A higher output value than in the embodiment shown in Fig. 3 can be expected, and the embodiment shown in Fig. 4 makes it less likely for the potentials of circuits such as communication circuit 13 or distributor 81 to change with changes in the reference potential, making it less likely for the potentials to be out of phase. To further increase the potential difference, it is preferable to insert a tuning circuit 70 between a circuit such as communication circuit 13 or distributor 81 and line segment 51a-1 or line segment 51b-1.

[0043] FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing another example configuration of the electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device 14. Furthermore, as another modified example of the wire 51 of the electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device 14, for example, a shape as shown in FIG. 6 may be used. As shown in FIG. 6, one end of the wire 51a-2 is connected to one end of a draw-out lead wire 511d through an eccentric hole 55a drilled in a conductive large-area body 55 (for example, the wall of the housing), and the other end of the wire 51a-2 is open. The other end of the draw-out lead wire 511d is connected to one input terminal of a tuning circuit 70, and the other output terminal of the tuning circuit 70 is connected to one end of a circuit such as the communication circuit 13 or a distributor 81. Furthermore, the other end of the draw-out lead wire 512d is drawn out from this large-area body 55. One end of the lead wire 512d is connected to the other input terminal of the tuning circuit 70, and one output terminal of the tuning circuit 70 is connected to the other end of a circuit such as the communication circuit 13 or the distributor 81. The large-area element 55 is implanted in the body, but is preferably grounded to the outside of the body via conductive body tissue, for example, by a discharge band worn on the wrist. The lead wires 511d and 512d have different lengths. The large-area element 55 and the wire 51a-2 may be made of the same or different materials. In particular, when the large-area element 55 is integrated with the outer wall of the housing as shown in FIG. 15 below, it is preferable to select a conductive material that does not affect the human body, while selecting a different, inexpensive material with good conductivity for the wire 51a-2.

[0044] Furthermore, the electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device 21 includes a ferromagnetic member 41A shaped to follow the coil axis of the solenoid coil 41. This ferromagnetic member 41A has a shape that follows the coil axis of the solenoid coil 41. The ferromagnetic member 41A is made of a conductive ferromagnetic material (for example, a metallic magnetic material such as permalloy), and one coil end of the solenoid coil 41 is electrically connected to one end 41A1 of the ferromagnetic member 41A. This allows two wires to be laid together, from the other coil end of the solenoid coil 41 and the other end of the ferromagnetic member 41A that is close to that other coil end, to the drive circuit 22, simplifying the laying of the two wires.

[0045] Specifically, for example, the solenoid coil 41 is formed by winding a thin copper wire around a thick ferromagnetic wire serving as a ferromagnetic member 41A formed in an arc shape. For example, as shown in FIG. 3, one end of this thin copper wire is electrically connected to the ferromagnetic member 41A (end 41A1), and the other end is connected to one terminal 42. The ferromagnetic member 41A also serves as a current path, and the other end 41A2 of the ferromagnetic member 41A is connected to the other terminal 43. Note that a paramagnetic member of a similar shape may be used instead of the ferromagnetic member 41A. In the case of a ferromagnetic material, the vector potential is enhanced according to the effective magnetic permeability.

[0046] The wire 51 may also be a ferromagnetic member, that is, a member made of a conductive ferromagnetic material (for example, a metallic magnetic material such as permalloy).

[0047] Returning to FIG. 1 , the communication circuit 23 of the extracorporeal device 2 generates a modulated signal that serves as transmission data to be transmitted from the extracorporeal device 2 to the implantable device 1. The drive circuit 22 drives the electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device 21 while modulating the vector potential based on the modulated signal, causing the electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device 21 to generate a modulated vector potential. For example, the communication circuit 23 receives transmission data supplied from the controller 24, generates a modulated signal indicating the transmission data, and supplies this to the drive circuit 22. Meanwhile, in the implantable device 1, the communication circuit 13 is applied with a voltage induced in the wire 51, demodulates the modulated vector potential from the waveform of that voltage, extracts the modulated signal, generates transmission data, and outputs it to the specific function unit 11.

[0048] Furthermore, the drive circuit 22 of the extracorporeal device 2 generates an AC voltage with a predetermined waveform (sine wave, square wave, triangular wave, etc.) and a predetermined frequency (for example, about 1 kHz to several hundred MHz), and applies this to the solenoid coil 41 of the electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device 21.

[0049] Furthermore, the controller 24 of the extracorporeal device 2 controls the drive circuit 22 and the communication circuit 23, and transmits data to the implantable device 1 at a predetermined timing (schedule). The controller 24 may also be connected to a user interface device (display device or input device) and a storage device (not shown), and may display data received from the implantable device 1 on the display device or store it in the storage device, and may also transmit data to the implantable device 1 in accordance with user operations detected by the input device.

[0050] Next, the operation of the implantable device system according to the first embodiment will be described.

[0051] In the extracorporeal device 2, the controller 24 supplies transmission data to the communication circuit 23. The communication circuit 23 generates a modulation signal indicating the transmission data and outputs it to the drive circuit 22. The drive circuit 22 drives the electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device 21 while modulating the vector potential based on the modulation signal, causing the electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device 21 to generate a modulated vector potential.

[0052] On the other hand, in the implantable device 1, the electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device 14 senses the vector potential and applies a voltage corresponding to the vector potential to the communication circuit 13, and the communication circuit 13 demodulates the voltage (i.e., the modulated vector potential) to extract the modulated signal, generates transmission data, and outputs it to the specific function unit 11.

[0053] Note that data transfer from the implantable device 1 to the extracorporeal device 2 may be performed via the electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device 14 and the electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device 21 by load modulation or the like.

[0054] As described above, the implantable device system pertaining to Embodiment 1 comprises an implantable device 1 equipped with a specific function unit 11 that performs a specific function, and an extracorporeal apparatus 2. The extracorporeal apparatus 2 comprises an electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device 21, and the implantable device 1 comprises an electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device 14 that senses the vector potential generated by the electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device 21.

[0055] Furthermore, the extracorporeal device 2 is equipped with a communication circuit 23 that generates a modulated signal indicating the transmission data, and a drive circuit 22 that drives the electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device 21 while modulating the vector potential based on the modulated signal, causing the electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device 21 to generate a modulated vector potential. On the other hand, the implantable device 1 is equipped with a communication circuit 13 that demodulates the modulated vector potential, extracts the modulated signal, generates transmission data, and outputs it to the specific function unit 11.

[0056] The vector potential is less susceptible to the influence of substances (such as the housing 1a) that exist between the implantable device 1 and the extracorporeal apparatus 2, and this allows stable communication with the implantable device 1.

[0057] Embodiment 2

[0058] In the second embodiment, both power supply and data transfer from the extracorporeal apparatus 2 to the implantable device 1 are performed using vector potential.

[0059] In the second embodiment, the drive circuit 22 of the extracorporeal device 2 combines the power transmission signal with the communication signal from the communication circuit 23, and then supplies the combined signal to the electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device 21.

[0060] 7 is a block diagram showing the configuration of an implantable device system according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention. For example, as shown in FIG. 7, in Embodiment 2, implantable device 1 includes distributor 81 and power supply unit 12A.

[0061] In the second embodiment, the power supply unit 12A supplies power supply power to the specific function unit 11 and the like based on the vector potential sensed by the electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device 14.

[0062] 8 is a block diagram showing the configuration of power supply unit 12A in embodiment 1. In embodiment 1, power supply unit 12A includes an AC / DC converter 91, a secondary battery 92, and a power supply management unit 93.

[0063] The AC / DC converter 91 is a circuit that converts AC power output from the electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device 14 in response to the sensed vector potential into DC power. The power supply management unit 93 is a circuit that supplies power to the specific function unit 11 and charges the secondary battery 92 with DC power supplied from the AC / DC converter 91, and also supplies power to the specific function unit 11 with DC power supplied from the secondary battery 92. The secondary battery 92 is provided as needed, and need not be provided if there is no particular need.

[0064] In the second embodiment, the supply of power from the extracorporeal apparatus 2 to the implantable device 1 based on the vector potential and the transmission of transmission data from the extracorporeal apparatus 2 to the implantable device 1 based on the vector potential are either (a) carried out in parallel or (b) carried out in separate time periods. During the period in which the vector potential is modulated based on the transmission data, the distributor 81 applies the output voltage of the electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device 14, which is based on the sensed vector potential, to the communication circuit 13.

[0065] The above-mentioned period may be set in advance, or may be detected by distributor 81 based on changes in amplitude or frequency of the output voltage of the electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device 14.

[0066] When power supply and data transfer are carried out during separate periods, distributor 81 operates as a changeover switch, and during the power supply period, of power supply unit 12A and communication circuit 13, the output voltage of the electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device 14 based on the sensed vector potential is applied only to power supply unit 12A, and during the data transfer period, of power supply unit 12A and communication circuit 13, the output voltage of the electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device 14 based on the sensed vector potential is applied only to communication circuit 13.

[0067] When power supply and data transfer are carried out in parallel, the distributor 81 applies, for example, the component of the output voltage of the electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device 14 that corresponds to the carrier wave to the power supply unit 12A, and applies the component of the output voltage of the electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device 14 that corresponds to the modulated signal to the communications circuit 13A.

[0068] The rest of the configuration and operation of the implantable device system according to the second embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted.

[0069] As described above, in the second embodiment, vector potential is used to both supply power and transfer data from the extracorporeal device 2 to the implantable device 1. Vector potential is less susceptible to the influence of substances (such as the housing 1a) that exist between the implantable device 1 and the extracorporeal device 2, and has better energy transmission efficiency than radio waves, electromagnetic induction, sound waves, and the like, making it possible to stably supply power to the implantable device 1 and transfer data to it.

[0070] Embodiment 3.

[0071] Fig. 9 is a perspective view showing an example of an electromagnetic and vector potential generation and sensing device 21 and an electromagnetic and vector potential generation and sensing device 14 in embodiment 3. Fig. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of an electromagnetic and vector potential generation and sensing device 14 in embodiment 3 of the present invention.

[0072] 9 and 10, the electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device 14 includes multiple wires 51 and lead wires 101, 102 that electrically connect the wires 51 together, and each of the lead wires 101, 102 has a loop shape that is wound approximately halfway around, and is arranged so that the winding surface (a plane approximately parallel to the lead wires 101, 102) faces the opening of the solenoid coil 41 and is approximately parallel to the wire 51. Here, it is preferable that the number of multiple wires 51 is an even number.

[0073] 9, one end of draw-out lead wire 511f is connected to the other end of first lead wire 101-1, and the other end of draw-out lead wire 511f is connected to one input terminal of tuning circuit 70. Furthermore, the other end of draw-out lead wire 512f is connected to one end of sixth wire 51-6, and one end of draw-out lead wire 512f is connected to the other input terminal of tuning circuit 70.

[0074] One end of the first lead wire 101-1 is connected to the other end of the first wire 51-1, one end of the first wire 51-1 is connected to the other end of the first lead wire 102-1, and one end of the first lead wire 102-1 is connected to the other end of the second wire 51-2.

[0075] Furthermore, the 1D shape formed by the first lead wire 101-1 and the first wire 51-1 is substantially symmetrical to the 2D shape formed by the first or second wire 51-1 or 51-2 and the first lead wire 102-1. Therefore, if the direction of the magnetic flux passing through the 1D-shaped loop is parallel to the direction of the magnetic flux passing through the 2D-shaped loop, the electromotive forces induced by these magnetic fluxes will be opposite to each other.

[0076] Next, the other end of the second lead wire 101-2 is connected to one end of the second wire 51-2, one end of the second lead wire 101-2 is connected to the other end of the third wire 51-3, and one end of the third wire 51-3 is connected to the other end of the second lead wire 102-2.

[0077] The 3D shape formed by the second lead wire 101-2 and the second wire 51-2 is substantially symmetrical to the 4D shape formed by the second or third wire 51-2 or 51-3 and the second lead wire 102-2.

[0078] In this way, a plurality of lead wires 101 are electrically connected in series with the same number of lead wires 102, and the D-shapes formed by each of them are provided in pairs.

[0079] Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 8, multiple wires 51 are densely arranged (while being insulated from one another) at the center of curvature of the coil axis of solenoid coil 14, and the strength of the vector potential at the position where wires 51 are arranged is higher than at the positions where lead wires 101 and 102 are arranged.

[0080] Furthermore, since the leakage magnetic flux BL also interlinks with the loop formed by the wire 51 and the lead wires 101 and 102, stable power transmission can be provided by simultaneously utilizing the leakage magnetic flux BL and the vector potential. In other words, since the direction in which the voltage due to the leakage magnetic flux BL is generated in the wire 51 is the same as the direction in which the vector potential is generated, the two are added together. Furthermore, when there is another external magnetic signal (external noise), it is canceled by the first and third D-shaped loops or the second and fourth D-shaped loops. In other words, the magnetic field introduced by the differential mode is strengthened, but the magnetic field introduced by the common mode is canceled. Therefore, the third embodiment is resistant to external noise.

[0081] Furthermore, while the transmission and reception of power using such magnetic and vector potential generation device 21 and electromagnetic and vector potential generation and sensing device 14 is susceptible to the influence of arrangement conditions such as the relative position and angle between the receiving and receiving side and the transmitting and transmitting side, an implantable device is less susceptible to such influences, since the position of the transmitting and receiving, power transmitting and receiving parts does not change, particularly after implantation, and arrangement conditions such as position and angle do not change. Furthermore, since the efficiency of transmission and transmission drops significantly if the position or angle of the transmitting and transmitting side device changes slightly relative to the fixed receiving and receiving side, it is expected that erroneous transmission and transmission can be avoided and safety improved compared to conventional non-contact transmission and reception devices.

[0082] The rest of the configuration and operation of the implantable device system according to the third embodiment is the same as that of any of the other embodiments, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted.

[0083] Embodiment 4

[0084] FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing an example of an electromagnetic and vector potential generation and sensing device 21 and an electromagnetic and vector potential generation and sensing device 14 in embodiment 4.

[0085] In the fourth embodiment, as shown in FIG. 11, the electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device 14 includes an electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device 14a and an electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device 14b.

[0086] Furthermore, the electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device 14a and the electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device 14b are arranged so that they form an angle Φ with respect to each other. Here, since the cosine components in two perpendicular directions are picked up for angle Φ, any angle is acceptable as long as communication or power supply is possible.

[0087] Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 11, in the fourth embodiment, the electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device 14a includes multiple wires 51-1, 51-2, and 51-3, and the magnetic and vector potential sensing device 14b includes multiple wires 51e, 51f, and 51g.

[0088] 11, one end of the first lead wire 101-1 is connected to the other end of the first wire 51e, and the other end of the first lead wire 101-1 is connected to one end of the second wire 51f. The other end of the wire 51f is connected to one end of the second lead wire 102-1. The other end of the second lead wire 102-1 is connected to one end of the third wire 51g.

[0089] Furthermore, the 1D shape formed by the first lead wire 101-1, the first wire 51e, and the second wire 51f is substantially symmetrical to the 2D shape formed by the second wire 51f, the third wire 51g, and the second lead wire 102-1. Therefore, if the direction of the magnetic flux passing through the 1D-shaped loop is parallel to the direction of the magnetic flux passing through the 2D-shaped loop, the electromotive forces induced by these magnetic fluxes will be opposite to each other.

[0090] Furthermore, it is preferable that the leads 101-1 and 102-1 and the wires 51e, 51g, and 51f are formed within a single first plane.

[0091] Similarly, the other end of the third lead wire 103-1 connected to the wire 51-1 is connected to one end of the fourth wire 51-2. The other end of the wire 51-2 is connected to one end of the fourth lead wire 104-1. The other end of the fourth lead wire 1041 is connected to one end of the sixth wire 51-3.

[0092] Furthermore, the 3D shape formed by the third lead wire 103-1, the fourth wire 51-1, and the fifth wire 51-2 is substantially symmetrical to the 4D shape formed by the fifth wire 51-2, the sixth wire 51-3, and the fourth lead wire 104-1. Therefore, if the direction of the magnetic flux passing through the 3D-shaped loop is parallel to the direction of the magnetic flux passing through the 4D-shaped loop, the electromotive forces induced by these magnetic fluxes will be opposite to each other.

[0093] Furthermore, it is preferable that the lead wires 103-1 and 104-1 and the wires 51-1, 51-2, and 51-3 are formed in a single second plane. Furthermore, the above-mentioned first plane and this second plane may be the same plane or different planes.

[0094] One end of the wire 51e is connected to the other end of the lead wire 511g, and the other end of the wire 51g is connected to the other end of the lead wire 512g. One end of the wire 51-1 is connected to the other end of the lead wire 513g, and the other end of the wire 51-3 is connected to the other end of the lead wire 514g.

[0095] One end of the lead wires 511g, 512g, 513g, and 514g is connected to one input end of a power selector circuit 72. The power selector circuit 72 has the function of selectively detecting the output between the lead wires 511g and 512g or the output between the lead wires 513g and 514g, and arbitrarily selecting the electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device 14a, 14b with the larger output, and also has the function of adding together the outputs picked up from both the electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing devices 14a, 14b. The output of the power selector circuit 72 is preferably connected to an output circuit 71, which matches the frequency of the input signal and amplifies or detects it.

[0096] By doing this, the two electromagnetic and vector potential generation and sensing devices 14a and 14b are connected in parallel, and the output of either one can be selected by the power selector circuit 72. Therefore, even if the direction of the vector potential generated by the magnetic and vector potential generation device 21 is not parallel to the direction of the electromagnetic and vector potential generation and sensing device 14, it is possible to transmit and receive a certain degree of power. This increases the degree of freedom when using the magnetic and vector potential generation device 21.

[0097] 11, two magnetic and vector potential sensing devices 14a, 14b are used, but it is also possible to arrange two or more magnetic and vector potential sensing devices 14. Furthermore, it is also possible to arrange multiple magnetic and vector potential sensing devices 14 in different planes.

[0098] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device 14a and the electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device 14b each include three wires 51, but this is an example, and each may include one or another plurality of wires 51.

[0099] The rest of the configuration and operation of the implantable device system according to the fourth embodiment is the same as that of any of the other embodiments, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted.

[0100] Embodiment 5

[0101] Fig. 12 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of an electromagnetic and vector potential generation and sensing device 14 in accordance with embodiment 5 of the present invention. Fig. 13 is a perspective view showing an example of an electromagnetic and vector potential generation and sensing device 21 and an electromagnetic and vector potential generation and sensing device 14 in accordance with embodiment 5.

[0102] In the third embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 12 and 13, for example, the electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device 14 includes a plurality of wires 51 and lead wires 101 that electrically connect the wires 51 together, and each lead wire 101 has a loop shape wound approximately one turn, and is arranged so that the winding surface (a plane approximately parallel to the lead wire 101) faces the opening of the solenoid coil 41 and is approximately parallel to the wire 51. Note that in FIGS. 12 and 13, one end of each of the multiple wires 51 is connected to one another, but the other ends of each may also be connected to one another in a similar manner. Note that the loop shape of the lead wires 101 may be approximately circular, approximately rectangular, or some other shape.

[0103] By arranging the lead wires 101 in this manner, even if there is leakage magnetic flux BL that penetrates the housing 1a among the magnetic flux generated in the solenoid coil 41, the leakage magnetic flux BL is less likely to link, and voltage caused by the leakage magnetic flux BL is less likely to be induced in the lead wires 101. Furthermore, the multiple wires 51 are arranged densely (while being insulated from each other) at the center of curvature of the coil axis of the solenoid coil 14, and the strength of the vector potential at the position where the wires 51 are arranged is higher than at the position where the lead wires 101 are arranged.

[0104] The rest of the configuration and operation of the implantable device system according to the third embodiment is the same as that of any of the other embodiments, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted.

[0105] Embodiment 6

[0106] FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of an electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device 14 in embodiment 6 of the present invention.

[0107] In Embodiment 6, as shown in FIG. 14 , the electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device 14 includes multiple wires 51 along the X direction, lead wires 101, 102 that electrically connect the wires 51 to each other, and draw-out lead wires 511e and 512e that connect to the tuning circuit 70, and each of the lead wires 101, 102 has a loop shape that is wound approximately halfway around, and is arranged so that the winding surface (a plane approximately parallel to the lead wires 101, 102) faces the opening of the solenoid coil 41 and is approximately parallel to these multiple wires 51.

[0108] 14, the other end of lead wire 511e is connected to one end of first wire 51-1 and one end of lead wire 511e is connected to the other input terminal of tuning circuit .

[0109] Next, the other end of the first wire 51 is connected to one end of the first lead wire 101-1, and the other end of the first lead wire 101-1 is connected to one end of the second wire 51-2. Next, the other end of the second wire 51-2 is connected to one end of the first lead wire 102-1, and the other end of the first lead wire 102-1 is connected to one end of the third wire 51-3.

[0110] Therefore, the first D shape consisting of the first lead wire 101-1, the first wire 51-1 or the second wire 51-2 is approximately symmetrical to the second D shape consisting of the second wire 51-2, the first lead wire 102-1 or the third wire 51-3.

[0111] Furthermore, the other end of the third wire 51-3 is connected to one end of the second lead wire 101-2, and the other end of the second lead wire 101-2 is connected to one end of the fourth wire 51-4. Furthermore, the other end of the fourth wire 51-4 is connected to one end of the second lead wire 102-2, and the other end of the second lead wire 102-2 is connected to one end of the fifth wire 51-5.

[0112] Therefore, the 3D shape consisting of the second lead wire 101-2, the third wire 51-3 or the fourth wire 51-4 is approximately symmetrical to the 4D shape consisting of the fourth wire 51-4, the fifth wire 51-5 or the second lead wire 102-2.

[0113] The other end of fifth wire 51-5 is connected to one end of lead wire 512e, which is connected to one input terminal of tuning circuit .

[0114] In this way, the plurality of lead wires 101 are provided in pairs, electrically connected in series with the same number of lead wires 102. In other words, in this embodiment, for the plurality of wires 51, the total number of lead wires 101, 102 is one less than the number of wires 51.

[0115] Therefore, since wire 51 is located near the center of curvature of the arc of the coil axis of solenoid coil 41, and as shown in the position-vector potential strength characteristics shown in FIG. 14 , the strength of the vector potential VP(t) is higher than the vector potential strength at the positions of lead wires 101 and 102, which are away from the center of curvature of the arc of the coil axis, a potential difference arising from the difference in vector potential strength causes a current to flow in wire 51 and lead wires 101 and 102, or a potential difference is generated.

[0116] Furthermore, with this structure, even if there is leakage magnetic flux BL among the magnetic flux generated by the solenoid coil 41 that passes through the housing 1a, the leakage magnetic flux BL is less likely to interlink, and voltage caused by the leakage magnetic flux BL is less likely to be induced in the lead wires 101 and 102.

[0117] As described above, the structure of the electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device 14 in Embodiments 5 and 6 is an advantageous configuration when receiving only communication signals, while the structure of the electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device 14 in Embodiments 3 and 4 is an advantageous configuration when transmitting power as well, and therefore a configuration that makes use of the advantages of both is also an aspect of the present invention.

[0118] That is, by further providing a movable part or switching circuit on which the lead wires 101, 102 are placed, the connection of the lead wires 101, 102 can be switched as needed, so that, for example, the lead wire 101 shown in embodiment 3 or 4 can be used during communication, and the lead wires 101, 102 can be used as in embodiment 5 or 6 during power transmission. This allows signals to be sent and received using vector potential without being affected by the leakage magnetic flux BL during communication, and allows stable and fast charging by utilizing the leakage magnetic flux BL during power transmission.

[0119] The rest of the configuration and operation of the implantable device system according to the sixth embodiment is the same as that of any of the other embodiments, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted.

[0120] Embodiment 7

[0121] Figure 15 is a diagram showing an example of the placement of an electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device 14 in an implantable device in an implantable device system according to Embodiment 7. In Embodiment 7, if the implantable device 1 is, for example, a pacemaker as shown in Figure 15, the implantable device 1 comprises an internal circuit 61 including a power supply unit 12 and part of the specific function unit 11 (controller portion), and leads 62 for applying electrical stimulation to the atria and ventricles, and the electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device 14 is placed inside the implantable device 1 on the body surface side.

[0122] Furthermore, when the electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device 21 is placed along the surface of the human body in accordance with the curvature of the solenoid coil 41, the wire 51 of the electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device 14 may be placed so that it is parallel to the direction of the vector potential generated in the solenoid coil 41.

[0123] Furthermore, it is preferable that the wire 51 of the electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device 14 be set at the center of curvature of the arc of the coil axis of the solenoid coil 41, where the vector potential is strongest, and it is preferable that the internal circuits 61 and 32 be placed in an area where the vector potential is weak, for example, on both sides of the electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device 14.

[0124] Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 15 , in the seventh embodiment, a different configuration example of the electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device 14 shown in FIG. 6 above may be used. That is, the wall of the housing is integrated with the large-area body 55. Of course, FIG. 15 shows only one example of the seventh embodiment, and other examples are also possible, for example, the wall of the housing and the large-area body 55 are formed separately. Note that the other configurations and operations of the implantable device system according to the seventh embodiment are the same as those of any of the other embodiments, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted.

[0125] Embodiment 8

[0126] FIG. 16 is a perspective view showing an example of an electromagnetic and vector potential generation and sensing device 21 and an electromagnetic and vector potential generation and sensing device 14 in Embodiment 8. In Embodiment 8, as shown in FIG. 16, for example, the solenoid coil 41 of the electromagnetic and vector potential generation and sensing device 21 is wound along a linear coil axis. Note that in Embodiment 4, multiple solenoid coils 41 are arranged, and these multiple solenoid coils 41 are electrically connected in series or in parallel.

[0127] The rest of the configuration and operation of the implantable device system according to the eighth embodiment is the same as that of any of the other embodiments, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted.

[0128] Embodiment 9

[0129] FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an example of a solenoid coil 41 of an electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device 21 according to the ninth embodiment. In the ninth embodiment, as shown in FIG. 17, for example, the solenoid coil 41 is wound along a linear coil axis, but is wound so that the inclination angles A0 to A5 of the winding direction (the angles between the coil axis direction and the winding direction) gradually change along the direction of the coil axis. Specifically, the inclination angle at the center of the solenoid coil 41 is 90 degrees, and the inclination angle decreases the further away from the center (A0>A1>A2>A3>A4>A5). As a result, the above-described vector potential can be sensed efficiently in the implantable device 1, just like a solenoid coil 41 with a curved coil axis.

[0130] The rest of the configuration and operation of the implantable device system according to the ninth embodiment is the same as that of any of the other embodiments, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted.

[0131] It should be noted that various changes and modifications to the above-described embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Such changes and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the subject matter and without diminishing its intended advantages. In other words, it is intended that such changes and modifications be included within the scope of the claims.

[0132] For example, in the above first to fifth embodiments, the electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device 14 senses the vector potential using the wire 51, but instead, it may sense the vector potential using a coil such as a solenoid coil.

[0133] Furthermore, the number of solenoid coils 41 and the number of wires 51 in the first to fifth embodiments are not limited to those described above. [Industrial Applicability]

[0134] The present invention is applicable, for example, to implantable devices. [Explanation of symbols]

[0135] 1. Implantable Devices 2 Extracorporeal devices 11 Specific function section 12A power supply section 13 Communication circuit (an example of a second communication circuit) 14 Electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device (an example of a second electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device) 21 Electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device (an example of the first electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device) 22 Drive circuit 23 Communication circuit (an example of a first communication circuit) 41 Solenoid coil 41A Ferromagnetic material 51 Wire 55 large area body 55a eccentric hole 70 Tuning Circuit 71 Output circuit 72 Power selector circuit 101,102 Lead wire 511a, 512a, 511b, 512b, 511c, 512c, 511d, 512d, Lead wire

Claims

1. an implantable device having a specific functional part that performs a specific function; an extracorporeal device; the extracorporeal device includes a first electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device; the implantable device comprises a second electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing apparatus; the second electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device senses the electromagnetic and vector potential generated by the first electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device, the first electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device senses the electromagnetic and vector potential generated by the second electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device, the extracorporeal device comprises a first communication circuit that generates a modulated signal indicative of transmission data, and a drive circuit that drives the first electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device while modulating the vector potential based on the modulated signal, causing the first electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device to generate the modulated electromagnetic and vector potential; the implantable device comprises a second communication circuit that demodulates the modulated electromagnetic and vector potential to extract the modulated signal, generates the transmission data, and outputs the transmission data to the specific function unit; the implantable device transmits the monitoring data collected by the specific function unit to the second electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device via the second communication circuit, and causes the second electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device to generate electromagnetic and vector potentials corresponding to the monitoring data; An implantable device system comprising:

2. an implantable device having a specific functional part that performs a specific function; an extracorporeal device; the extracorporeal device includes a first electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device; the implantable device comprises a second electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing apparatus; the second electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device senses the electromagnetic and vector potential generated by the first electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device, the first electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device senses the electromagnetic and vector potential generated by the second electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device, the extracorporeal device comprises a first communication circuit that generates a modulated signal indicative of transmission data, and a drive circuit that drives the first electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device while modulating the vector potential based on the modulated signal, causing the first electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device to generate the modulated electromagnetic and vector potential; the implantable device comprises a second communication circuit that demodulates the modulated electromagnetic and vector potential to extract the modulated signal, generates the transmission data, and outputs the transmission data to the specific function unit; the implantable device transmits monitoring data collected by the specific function unit to the second electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device via the second communication circuit, and causes the second electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device to generate electromagnetic and vector potentials corresponding to the monitoring data, the first electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device comprises a solenoid coil extending along a curved coil axis, and the vector potential is generated by the solenoid coil; the second electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device comprises a wire extending along the direction of the vector potential, and senses the vector potential with the wire; the extracorporeal device is disposed so that the wire is positioned on the inside of the curvature; An implantable device system comprising:

3. the implant device further comprises a tuning circuit; the tuning circuit is a circuit electrically connected to the wire and adjusts the output impedance so that the potential difference between the output terminals of the tuning circuit is maximized; 3. The implantable device system according to claim 2,

4. the implant device further comprises two exit leads connected to opposite ends of the wire; One end of one of the two lead wires is connected to one end of the wire; The other end of the one lead wire is connected to the tuning circuit, One end of the other of the two lead wires is connected to the other end of the wire, the other end of the other lead wire is connected to the tuning circuit; 4. The implantable device system according to claim 3,

5. the wire includes a first line segment and a second line segment extending on a single straight line; one end of the first line segment is connected to the tuning circuit; The other end of the first line segment is open, one end of the second line segment is connected to the tuning circuit; the other end of the second line segment is open; 4. The implantable device system according to claim 3,

6. the wire includes a first line segment and a second line segment extending on a single straight line; one end of the first line segment is connected to the tuning circuit; the other end of the first line segment is connected to a first reference potential point via a first capacitance section, one end of the second line segment is connected to the tuning circuit; The other end of the second line segment is connected to a second reference potential point via a second capacitance section.

4. The implantable device system according to claim 3,

7. 3. The implantable device system of claim 2, wherein the implant device further comprises a conductive large-area body, an eccentric hole formed in the large-area body, a first extraction lead wire connected to one end of the wire through the eccentric hole, and a second extraction lead wire extracted from the large-area body.

8. 8. The implantable device system of claim 7, wherein the length of the first lead wire is different from the length of the second lead wire.

9. 8. The implantable device system of claim 7, wherein the material of the large-area body is different from the material of the wire.

10. 3. The implantable device system according to claim 2, wherein the first electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device comprises a ferromagnetic member shaped along the coil axis of the solenoid coil.

11. the second electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device comprises a plurality of wires that sense the vector potential, the plurality of wires are densely arranged at the center of curvature of the coil axis of the solenoid coil; 3. The implantable device system according to claim 2,

12. the implantable device comprises a housing having electromagnetic shielding properties; the second electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device and the second communication circuit are disposed within the housing; 3. The implantable device system according to claim 1 or 2,

13. the second electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device comprises a plurality of wires that sense the vector potential, and a plurality of lead wires that electrically connect the wires to each other, the wire is disposed at a position where the intensity of the vector potential is higher than the positions at which the plurality of lead wires are disposed; 3. The implantable device system according to claim 1 or 2,

14. 14. The implantable device system of claim 13, wherein the plurality of lead wires are connected to the plurality of wires so as to cancel out external noises from each other.

15. 3. The implantable device system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the second electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device is a coil that is wound along a linear coil axis and that is wound so that the inclination angle of the winding direction gradually changes along the direction of the coil axis.

16. the implantable device comprises a power supply unit that supplies power supply power to the specific function unit based on the vector potential sensed by the second electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device, the supply of power from the extracorporeal device to the implantable device based on the vector potential and the transmission of transmission data from the extracorporeal device to the implantable device based on the vector potential are (a) performed in parallel or (b) performed in separate periods; 3. The implantable device system according to claim 1 or 2,

17. A communication method between an extracorporeal device and an implantable device having a specific function unit that performs a specific function, generating a modulated signal indicative of transmission data in the extracorporeal device, and modulating the electromagnetic and vector potential based on the modulated signal in a first electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device, while generating the modulated electromagnetic and vector potential; a second electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device in the implantable device senses the electromagnetic and vector potential generated by the first electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device; demodulating the sensed vector potential to extract the modulated signal, generating the transmission data, and outputting it to the specific function unit; in the implantable device, generating electromagnetic and vector potentials corresponding to the monitoring data collected by the specific function unit in the second electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device; in the extracorporeal device, the first electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device senses the electromagnetic and vector potential generated by the second electromagnetic and vector potential generating and sensing device; A communication method characterized by:

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