Blood Pump Controller Power Modules for Hot-Swappable Battery Expansion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing portable power systems for ventricular assist devices are cumbersome and limited in flexibility, requiring multiple cables or a large enclosure, and necessitate disconnection of depleted energy sources before new ones can be connected, which can lead to non-functional periods during failures.
Innovation Solution
A modular energy supply system allowing serial connection of external battery modules with integrated chargers and controllers for flexible capacity expansion and recharging without disconnection, using fiber optic data connections to manage power distribution and prevent misorientation, and incorporating temperature sensors for patient safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If multiple power cables are used to provide power to the VAD, then power supply capacity is improved, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate due to requiring users to manage multiple cables
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple power cables into a single integrated cable assembly that delivers power to the VAD. This merging approach maintains the power supply capacity of multiple cables while eliminating the complexity of managing separate cables, as the integrated design handles power delivery through a unified connection system
2Adaptability or versatility
If a single large enclosure containing both power source and VAS controller is used, then adaptability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to the cumbersome size
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the integrated system into separate functional components: a wearable VAS controller and a separate power source. This segmentation allows the controller to be small and comfortable for wearing while the power source can be larger and worn separately, maintaining adaptability while improving ease of operation and wearability
3Device complexity
If a fixed capacity battery is used, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability deteriorates due to limited options for expanding energy storage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic battery system where the energy storage capacity can be adjusted based on user needs. The system allows users to configure different battery capacities or swap battery modules, providing adaptability in energy storage while maintaining relatively simple device architecture through standardized interfaces and modular design
4Reliability
If depleted energy sources must be disconnected before new ones are connected, then reliability is improved by preventing simultaneous connections, but loss of time increases during energy source transitions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a preliminary action mechanism where the system prepares for energy source transitions in advance. The controller manages the switching process between energy sources through controlled sequencing, allowing for smoother transitions that reduce downtime while maintaining safety through managed connection protocols that prevent simultaneous connections
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and related methods for supplying power to a medical device employ serially-connectable portable batteries. A method of supplying electrical power to a medical device includes discharging a first external battery to output electrical power to a second external battery. Distribution of the electrical power received by the second external battery is controlled to simultaneously charge the second external battery and output electrical power from the second external battery to supply electrical power to the medical device.