Crystalline Dielectric Capacitors for Compact Therapeutic Pulse Generators
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Therapeutic electrical pulse delivery systems designed for implantation or wearability face challenges due to the size, weight, and durability issues of conventional capacitors, which affect efficiency and mechanical integrity.
Innovation Solution
The use of capacitors with crystalline dielectrics, such as diamond or silicon carbide, which are less susceptible to deformation and degradation, allowing for smaller, lighter, and more durable pulse generators with higher energy density and flexibility in form factor.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If conventional capacitors are used in implantable and wearable devices, then the devices can store and deliver therapeutic energy, but the size and weight of the devices increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical and chemical parameters of the capacitor by using crystalline dielectric materials (such as sapphire, silicon carbide, or diamond) instead of conventional electrolytic or ceramic dielectrics. This material substitution fundamentally alters the energy density and volume-to-weight ratios, enabling compact, lightweight capacitors that maintain high energy storage capability while significantly reducing device weight and size.
2Use of energy by moving object
If conventional capacitors are used in implantable and wearable devices, then the devices can store and deliver therapeutic energy, but the volume of the devices increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent fundamentally changes the dielectric material parameters by employing crystalline structures with superior permittivity and breakdown strength characteristics. This enables the capacitor to achieve higher energy density and lower volume requirements while maintaining the same energy storage capability, directly addressing the volume reduction requirement for implantable and wearable devices.
3Duration of action of stationary object
If conventional capacitors are used in implantable and wearable devices, then the devices can function initially, but durability and mechanical integrity degrade over time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs composite material structures combining crystalline dielectric materials with stable electrode materials (such as metal foils or conductive polymers) to create a capacitor system with enhanced mechanical integrity and chemical stability. This composite approach eliminates the degradation issues associated with conventional electrolytic capacitors, ensuring long-term reliability and durability for implantable and wearable applications.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the material composition parameters by substituting conventional dielectric materials with crystalline structures that possess superior mechanical strength, chemical inertness, and resistance to environmental degradation. This material parameter transformation directly enhances the durability and operational lifespan of the capacitor in demanding implantable and wearable environments.
4Use of energy by moving object
If capacitors with high energy density are used, then the device can be compact and lightweight, but the complexity of manufacturing increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex multi-layer ceramic capacitor manufacturing processes with simpler crystalline dielectric deposition techniques. The crystalline materials can be deposited as single-crystal layers or oriented polycrystalline films using established semiconductor fabrication techniques, simplifying the manufacturing process while achieving high energy density. This substitution of manufacturing approaches reduces complexity compared to traditional high-density capacitor fabrication methods.
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 crystalline dielectric capacitors enable efficient, compact, and durable therapeutic electrical pulse delivery systems capable of delivering high voltage pulses with reduced mass and volume, enhancing energy efficiency and durability.
Implementation Method 1
Capacitors may store energy in an electric field between two electrodes (e.g., a first electrode and a second electrode)
Implementation Method 2
Each of the one or more capacitors may comprise a first electrode, a second electrode and a crystalline dielectric disposed between the first electrode and the second electrode
Data Source
AI summary
Therapeutic electrical pulse delivery systems and therapeutic pulse generators are disclosed. The therapeutic electrical pulse delivery system may include a power source, a pulse generator, and a controller. The pulse generator may be operatively coupled to the power source. The pulse generator may include one or more capacitors. Each of the one or more capacitors may include a first electrode, a second electrode, and a dielectric disposed between the first electrode and the second electrode. The dielectric may include a crystalline dielectric including carbon. The controller may include one or more processors and may be operatively coupled to the power source or the pulse generator. The controller may be configured to charge the one or more capacitors of the pulse generator using the power source and cause the pulse generator to deliver a therapeutic electrical pulse using the charged one or more capacitors.