Dual Wireless Transceivers for Implant Authentication
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for secure and reliable communication methods between medical implants and external devices to protect sensitive data and ensure authorized control, as existing technologies lack effective solutions for secure data transfer and authentication in medical implant systems.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of an external device with dual wireless transceivers using different network protocols, such as UWB and Bluetooth, for secure communication with medical implants, including authentication mechanisms based on distance determination and encryption, to facilitate secure data transfer and control operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a single wireless transceiver is used for communication with the implant, then the device complexity is low, but the security and reliability of data transfer cannot be ensured
Solution Approach 1:
The external device is divided into two separate wireless transceivers: a first transceiver using a first network protocol for distance determination and authentication, and a second transceiver using a second network protocol for data transfer. This segmentation allows each transceiver to be optimized for its specific function, with the authentication transceiver ensuring security before the data transfer transceiver communicates with the implant.
Solution Approach 2:
The first wireless transceiver acts as an intermediary authentication layer between the user and the implant. It determines distance and authenticates the user before allowing the second transceiver to transfer data to the implant, creating a mediated security checkpoint that prevents unauthorized access.
2Reliability
If distance determination and authentication mechanisms are implemented, then unauthorized access is prevented, but the communication process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
Distance determination and authentication are performed as preliminary actions before data transfer begins. The first transceiver establishes the user's authorization status and distance metrics in advance, creating a pre-condition for secure communication that simplifies the overall process by filtering unauthorized attempts before they reach the implant.
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors distance between the external device and implant, providing feedback on whether the user remains within the authorized threshold. This feedback mechanism maintains security dynamically without requiring complex re-authentication protocols, as the system automatically detects when the authorized user moves out of range.
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 enhances the security and reliability of data communication between medical implants and external devices, ensuring only authorized access and maintaining the integrity of sensitive information, thereby improving the control and operation of medical implants.
Implementation Method 1
at least one first wireless transceiver configured for communication with the implantable medical device using a first network protocol, for determining a distance between the external device and the implantable medical device
Implementation Method 2
The first wireless transceiver is configured for transcutaneous energy transfer for at least one of: powering an energy consuming component of the implantable medical device, and charging an implantable energy storage unit
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to an apparatus for powering an implant for a human patient and a method for powering an implant for a human patient. Wherein said apparatus comprises an implantable energy source for providing energy to the implant, an energy provider connected to the implantable energy source and connected to an energy consuming part of the implant.