Feedthrough Assembly Metal Oxide Coating Insulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Implantable medical devices face challenges in maintaining long-term electrical insulation between feedthrough pins and ferrules, which can lead to electrical short pathways due to environmental exposure.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of an electrically insulative metal oxide surface coating between the feedthrough pin and the ferrule, in addition to existing insulative plugs and potting materials, to enhance electrical insulation and prevent short pathways.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If insulating plugs and potting materials are used to provide electrical insulation between feedthrough pin and ferrule, then electrical insulation is provided, but long-term reliability deteriorates due to environmental exposure creating electrical short pathways
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies composite materials by combining multiple insulation layers: a metal oxide coating layer (such as alumina, silica, or titania) deposited on the feedthrough pin surface, combined with insulating plugs (glass or ceramic) and potting materials. This multi-layer composite structure provides superior long-term electrical insulation reliability compared to single-material solutions, as each layer contributes different protective properties against environmental exposure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical and chemical parameters of the feedthrough pin surface by depositing a metal oxide coating layer. This coating modifies the surface properties to provide enhanced electrical insulation characteristics and chemical stability, preventing environmental factors from degrading the insulation performance over time. The coating thickness and composition can be optimized to achieve desired insulation properties.
2Reliability
If additional metal oxide surface coating is applied to enhance electrical insulation, then insulation reliability improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple functions into a single integrated feedthrough assembly structure. The metal oxide coating is deposited directly on the feedthrough pin during manufacturing, combining the electrical connection function and insulation function in one component. The insulating plug and potting material are integrated into the same assembly, creating a unified structure that provides both mechanical support and electrical insulation without requiring separate complex subsystems.
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 metal oxide surface coating provides additional and supplementary electrical insulation, effectively reducing the risk of electrical short pathways and maintaining the integrity of the feedthrough assembly over long-term use.
Implementation Method 1
at least one metal oxide surface coating on a portion of at least one of the ferrule sidewall or a surface of the feedthrough pin to provide electrical insulation between the feedthrough pin and the feedthrough ferrule
Data Source
AI summary
Feedthroughs, feedthrough assemblies, and methods of making the same for use in implantable medical devices are provided herein. Feedthroughs provided herein include a feedthrough ferrule, a feedthrough pin, and an electrically insulative metal oxide surface coating disposed on the feedthrough ferrule, disposed on the feedthrough pin, or disposed on both the feedthrough pin and the feedthrough ferrule.