Cuff Sensor Communication Device for Bone Healing Implants
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wireless communication systems for implanted bone sensors face challenges in establishing efficient and compact connections for data and power transfer, due to complex radio frequency emissions and the need for effective charging and communication systems that are both straightforward and reliable.
Innovation Solution
The development of cuff and bandage-type external devices with integrated electronic circuits and antennas that provide optimal placement and configuration for sensor communication devices, allowing for close proximity to implanted sensors, and featuring adjustable antennas and display feedback for maximizing signal communication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If wireless communication is used for implanted bone sensors, then transdermal connections are avoided and patient comfort is improved, but signal transmission efficiency and power delivery are reduced due to complex radio frequency pathways through tissue
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an external charging and communication device that couples to the implanted sensor through the skin, serving as an intermediary that enables wireless power and data transfer without requiring transdermal wires. This mediator resolves the contradiction by providing reliable power and communication while maintaining patient comfort and avoiding invasive connections.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical transdermal wire connections with a wireless electromagnetic field-based system. The external device uses electromagnetic induction or radiation to transfer power and data through the skin, eliminating the need for physical penetrating connections while maintaining reliable communication and power delivery.
2Ease of operation
If external charging and communication devices are made compact and straightforward, then ease of use is improved, but the ability to optimize signal pathways and maintain reliable wireless connections is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The external device incorporates adjustable or reconfigurable antenna elements that can dynamically optimize their configuration based on the position and orientation of the implanted sensor. This dynamic adjustment capability allows the device to maintain reliable signal pathways while keeping the overall device design compact and user-friendly.
Solution Approach 2:
The system includes feedback mechanisms that monitor signal strength and connection quality, automatically adjusting device parameters such as antenna orientation, transmission power, or frequency to optimize the wireless connection. This feedback loop ensures reliable communication while maintaining device simplicity for the user.
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 improved data transfer and power delivery to implanted sensors, enhancing the monitoring of bone healing processes and reducing the risk of infection through sensitive and timely detection, thereby optimizing patient health outcomes.
Implementation Method 1
Wireless communication signals may have complicated pathways for efficient radio frequency emissions
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention discloses methods and apparatus for fostering wireless communication to and from orthopedic implants. Cuff and bandage devices provide a means of supporting a device which coordinates and optimizes communication with orthopedic implants. The devices support methods which can provide feedback to a user to optimize the signal strength and signal to noise aspects of wireless connections to and from orthopedic implants.