Biocompatible Fuel Cell Energization Elements for Implantable Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Medical devices require compact, reliable, and cost-effective energization elements that can efficiently power semiconductor components, posing challenges due to their small size and specific energy demands, particularly in biocompatible and implantable devices where traditional energization methods are inadequate.
Innovation Solution
The development of biocompatible energization elements using fuel cells with novel structural designs and layer stacking techniques, including anode and cathode spacer layers, membrane layers, and enzymatic solutions, to create a compact and controlled energization system suitable for biomedical devices like contact lenses.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If traditional energization methods are used in biomedical devices, then the devices can be powered, but the devices become too large and cannot meet size requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The fuel cell is divided into multiple thin layers (anode layer, cathode layer, membrane layer, spacer layers) stacked together. This segmentation allows the energization element to be compact while maintaining functional separation of components, resolving the contradiction between small size and adequate energy supply capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a layered structure where smaller functional components are nested within the overall fuel cell structure. The membrane layer is positioned between electrode layers, and cavities are formed within the stacked structure to contain electrolyte solutions, creating a compact nested arrangement that maximizes energy density within minimal volume.
2Use of energy by moving object
If chemical components are contained in fuel cells for biomedical devices, then energy supply is improved, but containment and control of chemical components becomes challenging
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates localized cavities within the fuel cell structure to contain specific chemical components (anode electrolyte solution, cathode electrolyte solution). Each cavity is spatially separated and locally controlled, allowing precise containment of reactive chemicals while maintaining overall device reliability for biomedical applications.
Solution Approach 2:
The membrane layer acts as an intermediary barrier between the anode and cathode compartments, controlling the interaction between chemical components. This intermediary structure enables energy generation through controlled electrochemical reactions while preventing direct mixing of reactants, thus ensuring reliable containment and control of chemical components.
3Adaptability or versatility
If fuel cells are designed for biomedical devices, then biocompatibility is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fuel cell is constructed from multiple discrete layers that can be manufactured separately and then assembled through stacking. This segmentation simplifies manufacturing by allowing each layer to be optimized and produced using appropriate techniques, then combined to form the complete biocompatible device.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from planar two-dimensional electrode structures to a three-dimensional stacked configuration. This dimensional change allows for more efficient packing of functional components, improved biocompatibility through optimized layer arrangements, and streamlined manufacturing through sequential lamination processes.
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 approach enables the creation of efficient, compact, and reliable energization elements that can power biomedical devices, providing enhanced containment and control of chemical components, thus addressing the energy needs of medical devices while ensuring biocompatibility and safety.
Implementation Method 1
The membrane element within the energization elements may be formed with novel methods and may comprise novel materials. In some embodiments, the methods and apparatus to form the biocompatible energization elements involve forming a membrane element of the energization element. The active elements including anodes, cathodes and fuel cell solutions may be electrochemically connected
Implementation Method 2
A membrane layer may be cut to a size and shape that it may fit into the second hole and be larger than the first hole. The anode solution may comprise a first enzyme. In some examples the anode solution comprises glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase. In some examples the anode solution comprises α-glucan phosphorylase
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 into a fuel cell. The active elements of a cathode, anode, membrane and fuel storage 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.