Arced-Trapezoidal Electrolytic Capacitor for ICD Energy Density
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional high voltage capacitors used in implantable medical devices, such as ICDs, face challenges in maximizing energy density per unit volume due to limited anode surface area and inefficient use of space, leading to larger device sizes.
Innovation Solution
The design of an electrolytic capacitor with an arced-trapezoidal housing that increases the anode surface area by optimizing the shape and arrangement of anodes, cathodes, and separators, allowing for a higher energy density without increasing the overall volume, achieved by using an arced-trapezoidal shape for the housing and connecting multiple capacitors in series.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If conventional electrolytic capacitors are used with traditional housing shapes, then the capacitor can be manufactured with standard components, but the anode surface area is limited and device volume is large
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies curvature by using arced-trapezoidal housing shapes with rounded corners instead of conventional rectangular or cylindrical forms. This curved geometry allows for more efficient packing of anode foils and increases the effective anode surface area within the same volume, directly resolving the contradiction between limited surface area and large volume
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from traditional two-dimensional stacking of flat anode foils to a three-dimensional arced-trapezoidal configuration. By utilizing the curved housing geometry, the anode surface is extended into additional spatial dimensions, maximizing surface area within constrained volume without compromising manufacturing feasibility
2Power
If multiple capacitors are connected in series to achieve high voltage, then the desired voltage level is reached, but the overall device volume increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple capacitor units into a single integrated arced-trapezoidal housing structure. Instead of connecting separate cylindrical capacitors in series with significant spacing and insulation requirements, the invention combines multiple anode-cathode-separator stacks within one continuous curved housing, reducing overall volume while maintaining the required series voltage configuration
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements nesting by placing multiple anode-cathode-separator stacks concentrically or adjacently within the arced-trapezoidal housing. The curved geometry allows inner and outer stacks to be closely packed, with each stack nested within the overall structure, maximizing space utilization and minimizing the volume required for high voltage series connections
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
This configuration results in a 36% reduction in capacitor assembly size while maintaining energy density, enabling efficient energy storage and delivery in ICDs with reduced leakage current and deformation, leading to a longer device lifespan.
Implementation Method 1
a solvent-based liquid electrolyte... The electrolytic or ion-producing component of the electrolyte is the salt that is dissolved in the solvent
Implementation Method 2
an etched aluminum foil anode... Compact, high voltage capacitors are utilized as energy storage reservoirs
Data Source
AI summary
An electrolytic capacitor is disclosed having a housing in an arced-trapezoidal shape. Disposed within the housing are one or more anodes, one or more cathodes, one or more separators disposed between anodes that are adjacent anodes cathodes, and an electrolyte disposed around the one or more anodes, the one or more cathodes, and the one or more separators within the housing. The housing of the electrolytic capacitor includes front and back walls shaped as arced-trapezoids and four sidewalls that substantially follow the outline of the front and back walls. The electrolytic capacitor is configured to connect in series with one or more electrolytic capacitors of the same shape to form a capacitor assembly. In the capacitor assembly, electrolytic capacitors are placed such that sidewalls are adjacent to each other to form a D-shaped capacitor assembly.