Active Implant Memory Writing via Proximity Security
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing active implantable medical devices face challenges in secure and efficient remote memory reprogramming via long-range telemetry due to security concerns and limited mobility, particularly when a clinician is located several kilometers away from the patient.
Innovation Solution
A communication system involving a wireless proximity intermediate device and multiple unlocking tools ensures secure memory writing by enabling long-range telemetry with a first security barrier through network connection and a second barrier via proximity sensors, requiring patient authorization with tools within a short distance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If long-range telemetry is used for remote memory writing, then clinician mobility and patient convenience are improved, but security risks increase due to potential hacking
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a proximity sensor as an intermediary security mechanism between the long-range telemetry system and the implantable device. The proximity sensor detects when a programming device is in close proximity to the patient, and only enables memory writing when proximity is confirmed. This intermediary layer maintains security by requiring physical presence verification while allowing long-range telemetry to function for data transmission and monitoring.
2Reliability
If inductive telemetry is used for secure communication, then security is improved through close proximity requirement, but patient mobility is reduced and data transfer rate is slow
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the telemetry functions into two distinct modes: long-range telemetry for high-speed data transmission and monitoring, and short-range proximity-based telemetry for secure memory writing operations. This segmentation allows each mode to optimize its specific function - long-range telemetry provides high productivity for data transfer, while proximity telemetry provides enhanced security for critical writing operations.
3Productivity
If long-range telemetry is used for memory writing, then data transfer speed is improved, but security control is weakened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic security control where the enabled communication mode changes based on the operational context. For memory writing operations, the system dynamically switches to requiring proximity verification through sensors. For data reading and monitoring, long-range telemetry is permitted. This dynamic adaptation allows the system to maintain high data transfer rates when security risks are lower while enforcing stricter security controls when writing to memory.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enhances security and mobility for remote memory writing operations by preventing direct network access and ensuring patient consent, optimizing the process even when the clinician is far from the patient.
Implementation Method 1
at least one proximity sensor; a first external non-implantable unlocking tool, distinct from the intermediate proximity device, which is configured to emit a signal detectable by the proximity sensor
Implementation Method 2
the intermediate proximity device being configured to communicate wirelessly with the implantable medical device
Implementation Method 3
configured to receive write instructions and data transmitted by the main remote writing device via a network connection
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a system (1, 2) and a method for improving the security of a memory write operation of an implantable active medical device (100) by long-distance telemetry, in particular by network connection (300) with a primary writing device (200). The system (1, 2) and the method according to the present invention comprise a proximity intermediate device (110) enabling communication between the implantable active medical device (100) and the primary writing device (200) and at least one unlocking tool (120, 140) allowing access to the implantable active medical device (100).