Distributed Transformer for Transcutaneous Power Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current transcutaneous energy transfer systems for implanted medical devices, such as artificial hearts and ventricle assist devices, limit mobility and convenience due to the need for continuous power from electrical cords, as they do not provide mechanisms for flexible power delivery.
Innovation Solution
A distributed transformer component for a transcutaneous energy transfer system that includes a primary winding associated with a power supply and a secondary winding associated with an implanted medical device, connected by a cord that allows power transfer across multiple boundaries, including the skin, enabling flexible and convenient power delivery at various points on or near the body.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a fixed electrical power cord is used to deliver continuous power to the implanted medical device, then reliable power supply is ensured, but the subject's mobility and freedom of movement are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The power delivery system is segmented into multiple transformers distributed along the power cord path. The first transformer is positioned away from the implant site, allowing the subject to move freely while the power source remains stationary. The second transformer is positioned near the implant site to complete the power transfer across the skin boundary. This segmentation resolves the contradiction by separating the stationary power source from the mobile implant.
Solution Approach 2:
A distributed transformer system acts as an intermediary between the stationary power source and the mobile implant. The transformers transfer power wirelessly through electromagnetic coupling, eliminating the need for a physical tether. The first transformer couples to the power cord, and the second transformer couples to the implant, with power transferred through the skin boundary between them.
2Use of energy by moving object
If the power supply is positioned close to the implanted device for efficient power transfer, then power transfer efficiency is improved, but the subject's flexibility and convenience are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The power transfer path is divided into multiple segments with distributed transformers. The first transformer is positioned away from the implant (e.g., in a backpack or on a table), and the second transformer is positioned near the implant. This allows the subject to move freely while maintaining efficient power transfer at each segment boundary.
Solution Approach 2:
The system extends the power transfer in multiple spatial dimensions. Rather than requiring direct proximity in one dimension, the distributed transformers allow power transfer along a extended path through space. The power cord and transformers create a flexible power delivery network that adapts to the subject's movements in three-dimensional space.
3Device complexity
If a single transformer is used for power transfer across the skin boundary, then the system structure is simple, but the separation distance between power source and implant is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The single transformer is divided into multiple distributed transformers along the power path. The first transformer is positioned away from the skin boundary, and the second transformer is positioned at or near the skin boundary. This segmentation allows the power source to be separated from the implant by a much greater distance while maintaining effective power transfer.
Solution Approach 2:
The distributed transformers act as intermediaries that extend the power transfer distance. The first transformer receives power from the cord and transfers it wirelessly to the second transformer, which then transfers power across the skin boundary to the implant. This intermediary approach allows greater separation distance while maintaining system effectiveness.
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 distributed transformer component enhances mobility and convenience by allowing power transfer at various body locations, reducing the need for fixed power sources and improving the quality of life for individuals with implanted medical devices.
Implementation Method 1
a first transformer (280) including a primary winding and a secondary winding, the primary winding associated with a power supply, the first transformer configured to transfer power from the primary winding to the secondary winding across a first boundary
Implementation Method 2
a second transformer (284) including a primary winding and a secondary winding, the secondary winding associated with a medical device implanted within a subject, the second transformer configured to transfer power from the primary winding to the secondary winding across a second boundary that includes at least the skin of the subject
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a distributed transformer or extension cord component for a transcutaneous energy transfer system used to transfer electric power to an implanted medical device. The extension cord component may enable power transfer to occur at various points on or near the body of the subject within whom the medical device is implanted. In this way, the subject may gain greater flexibility and high levels of convenience in connection with use of the transcutaneous energy transfer system.