Biocompatible Energization Elements for Implantable Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for compact, safe, and cost-effective biocompatible energization elements for medical devices, particularly those that require self-contained energization means compatible with the size and energy requirements of modern medical devices, such as implantable pacemakers and contact lenses, where existing solutions struggle to provide reliable and efficient energy storage and control.
Innovation Solution
The development of biocompatible energization elements with a gap spacer layer, cathode spacer layer, and a separator layer, where the cathode chemicals, anode chemicals, and electrolyte chemicals are designed for multiple charging and discharging cycles, using materials like lithium iron phosphate and sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, and incorporating a hydrogel separator for enhanced structural integrity and energy management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If traditional energization elements are used in biomedical devices, then energy storage capacity is sufficient, but device size and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The battery is divided into multiple discrete energization elements (first battery element, second battery element, third battery element) connected in series. Each element contains separated components (anode, cathode, electrolyte, separator) arranged in distinct layers. This segmentation allows for compact packaging while maintaining total energy capacity, as each segment can be independently optimized for size and efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a nested structure where the separator layer is positioned between the anode and cathode within each battery element, and multiple battery elements are stacked together within a single device housing. The gap spacer layer creates a nested cavity structure that accommodates the electrolyte while maintaining compact overall dimensions. This nesting approach maximizes energy density within the constrained device volume.
2Volume of moving object
If battery elements are made compact for small medical devices, then device size is reduced, but reliability and safety of energy storage decrease
Solution Approach 1:
A separator layer is introduced as an intermediary component between the anode and cathode in each battery element. This separator prevents direct contact and potential short circuits between the electrodes while still allowing ionic transport through the electrolyte. The gap spacer layer serves as an additional intermediary structure that maintains proper spacing and mechanical stability. These intermediary elements enhance safety and reliability without significantly increasing device volume.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates multiple protective and stabilizing structures before potential failure modes can occur. The separator layer provides beforehand protection against electrode contact and short circuits. The gap spacer layer provides mechanical cushioning and maintains structural integrity during device operation. These preemptive design features ensure reliable energy storage even in the compact configuration required for small medical devices.
3Quantity of substance
If multiple battery elements are used to increase energy capacity, then energy requirements are met, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Each battery element is designed as a universal module with identical structure (anode layer, electrolyte layer, cathode layer, separator layer, gap spacer layer) that can be stacked to achieve different total energy capacities. The standardized modular design allows the same basic structure to serve multiple functions: energy storage, structural support, and safety containment. This universality reduces overall device complexity compared to designing custom configurations for different energy requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple battery elements are merged into a single integrated device structure with shared housing and coordinated component arrangement. The separator layers and gap spacer layers of adjacent elements are aligned and function together as a unified safety and structural system. This merging approach consolidates what could be separate complex assemblies into a single streamlined device, reducing overall complexity while maintaining the required energy capacity through the series-connected multiple elements.
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
The proposed solution provides a compact, reliable, and cost-effective means of energizing medical devices, ensuring safe and efficient energy storage and delivery, suitable for diverse medical applications including contact lenses, by utilizing a layered structure with specific chemical compositions and a hydrogel separator for improved performance and longevity.
Implementation Method 1
The separator layer is placed within the first hole in the gap spacer layer and is adhered to the ridge of cathode spacer layer
Implementation Method 2
The cathode chemicals, anode chemicals and electrolyte chemicals are consistent with multiple charging and discharging cycles of the energization element
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and apparatus to form biocompatible energization elements are described. In some embodiments, the methods and apparatus to form the biocompatible energization elements involve forming cavities comprising active cathode chemistry. The active elements of the cathode and anode are sealed with a laminate stack of biocompatible material. In some embodiments, a field of use for the methods and apparatus may include any biocompatible device or product that requires energization elements.