Capacitive Power and Data Coupling for Sensor Guidewires
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current medical devices, such as guidewires and catheters, face challenges in integrating sensors effectively, managing power and data communication, and accurately positioning sensors within the body due to limited space and the need for harmful imaging techniques, which can lead to complications and increased costs.
Innovation Solution
A power and data coupling device that uses a time-varying electric field to transmit power and receive signals from sensors integrated into medical devices, allowing for wireless communication and improved positioning of medical devices within the body without the need for physical connections or harmful imaging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If sensors are integrated into medical devices, then functionality is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines power and data transfer functions into a single integrated system using capacitive coupling. The first conductive surface serves dual purposes: providing power through electric field coupling and transmitting data bidirectionally, eliminating the need for separate power and data connections would otherwise be required
Solution Approach 2:
The capacitive coupling interface performs multiple functions simultaneously: it provides wireless power transfer, bidirectional data communication, and maintains electrical isolation. This multi-functional approach reduces the number of separate components needed in the sensor system
2Reliability
If physical connections are used for power and data transfer, then reliability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical physical connections with a capacitive coupling system that uses electric fields for power and data transfer. This eliminates the need for plugs, connectors, or sliding contacts, allowing the medical device to be inserted and positioned without manual connection operations
Solution Approach 2:
The capacitive coupling acts as an intermediary between the power source and the sensor, transferring energy and information through the electric field without direct physical contact. This intermediate field-based approach maintains reliable power and data transfer while eliminating mechanical connection complexities
3Measurement precision
If conventional imaging techniques are used for positioning, then measurement precision is improved, but object-affected harmful factors increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces radiation-based imaging methods with an electrical field-based sensing system. Sensors integrated into the device measure pressure, temperature, and other physiological parameters directly, eliminating the need for external imaging radiation while providing precise positioning information through the sensed data
Solution Approach 2:
The system converts the potentially harmful radiation-based imaging approach into a beneficial direct sensing approach. By using sensors that measure physiological parameters directly, the system turns the challenge of monitoring device position into an opportunity to gather useful clinical data without radiation exposure
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 solution enables efficient power and data transfer to medical sensors, reduces the complexity of medical devices, and enhances the accuracy of sensor positioning, thereby improving safety and reducing costs associated with improper device placement and imaging procedures.
Implementation Method 1
the first conductive surface radiates a time-varying electric field that is configured to convey power to the second conductive surface
Implementation Method 2
a first conductive surface integrated into a medical device and configured to couple via an electric field with a second conductive surface
Data Source
AI summary
A power and data coupling device for medical sensors comprises a first conductive surface integrated into a medical device and configured to couple via an electric field with a second conductive surface. The second conductive surface is translatable with respect to the first conductive surface. Additionally, the first conductive surface is connected to a power source for providing power, through the electric field, to the second conductive surface. The first conductive surface also radiates a time-varying electric field that is configured to convey power to the second conductive surface. Further, the first conductive surface is connected to a pick-up that is configured to receive signals from the second conductive surface.