Cochlear Implant Magnet System for MRI Compatibility and Adjustable Force
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional cochlear implants with MRI-compatible magnet apparatuses face challenges due to reduced magnetic material, leading to decreased magnetic attraction force as skin flap thickness increases, and the need for varying magnetic strength over time.
Innovation Solution
A cochlear implant design featuring a magnet system with a non-magnetic spacer and a hermetically sealed case containing at least one magnet, allowing for in-situ post-implantation retrofitting to adjust magnetic strength.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If MRI-compatible magnet apparatus with reduced magnetic material is used, then MRI compatibility is improved, but magnetic attraction force decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The magnet apparatus is segmented into multiple discrete magnets arranged in a specific configuration within the frame, allowing each magnet to be optimized for MRI compatibility while collectively providing sufficient magnetic attraction force through their combined effect
Solution Approach 2:
The magnet apparatus uses composite construction with non-magnetic or MRI-compatible materials for the frame and housing, combined with magnets that have reduced magnetic material content but are strategically positioned to maintain adequate attraction force while being MRI-compatible
2Stability of the object's composition
If skin flap thickness increases over time, then tissue growth occurs, but magnetic attraction force decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The magnet apparatus is designed with adjustable magnetic strength capabilities, allowing the magnetic attraction force to be dynamically increased over time to compensate for the increasing skin flap thickness and maintain proper headpiece alignment
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic strength parameter of the magnet apparatus can be changed or adjusted after implantation to compensate for changes in skin flap thickness, ensuring that the magnetic attraction force remains sufficient for proper positioning
3Adaptability or versatility
If magnet strength needs to be adjusted post-implantation, then patient needs change, but device modification becomes necessary
Solution Approach 1:
The magnet apparatus is segmented into replaceable or adjustable components, allowing individual magnets or magnetic assemblies to be modified or replaced to adjust the overall magnetic strength without requiring complete device replacement
Solution Approach 2:
The magnet apparatus is designed with multi-functionality to serve both initial implantation requirements and future adjustment needs, incorporating features that allow magnetic strength modification while maintaining the same basic device structure
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 solution enables effective adjustment of magnetic strength to compensate for changes in skin flap thickness and patient needs, ensuring consistent and optimal alignment between the cochlear implant and the headpiece.
Implementation Method 1
positioning magnets that are attracted to one another, and that maintain the position of the headpiece transmitter over the implant receiver
Data Source
AI summary
A magnet system including a non-magnetic spacer, a hermetically sealed case, and at least one magnet located within the hermetically sealed case as well as associated cochlear implants and associated methods.