Implantable Heart Compression With Magnetic Coupling Durability
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Long-lasting heart failure is increasing despite advancements in cardiology, and existing external and implantable mechanical heart compression devices face challenges due to mechanical strain and the need for frequent maintenance, necessitating a durable and minimally moving parts solution.
Innovation Solution
An implantable device with few moving parts, using ceramic or carbon materials, is designed to apply external force on the heart muscle, comprising pump devices with magnetic operation, fixation to sternum or vertebrae, and wireless energy transmission for long-term functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If implantable mechanical heart compression devices are used, then heart pump function is improved, but mechanical strain and durability are worsened due to enormous strain from 31 million beats per year
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical drive systems with magnetic coupling technology. An external drive unit generates magnetic fields that interact with magnetic elements in the implantable compression element, eliminating the need for mechanical connections and reducing mechanical strain on implantable components. This substitution of mechanical systems with magnetic fields directly addresses the durability issue caused by enormous mechanical strain from 31 million heart beats per year.
2Reliability
If implantable mechanical heart compression devices are used, then heart pump function is improved, but maintenance frequency is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
By replacing mechanical drive systems with magnetic coupling, the patent eliminates wear-prone mechanical components such as gears, bearings, and seals that would require maintenance. The magnetic coupling system has no physical contact between moving parts, dramatically reducing maintenance needs and improving ease of repair for long-term implantable operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic coupling system operates without mechanical wear, allowing the device to maintain its functionality autonomously over extended periods without external intervention or maintenance. The system essentially serves itself by utilizing magnetic fields that do not degrade through use, eliminating the need for periodic maintenance of mechanical components.
3Ease of operation
If external chest compression devices are used, then acute heart failure is alleviated, but long-term treatment capability is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the compression system into two separate components: an external drive unit that generates magnetic fields and an implantable compression element that applies force to the heart. This segmentation allows the simple external device to provide long-term treatment through the implantable component, combining the simplicity of external operation with the durability of implantable technology for extended treatment duration.
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 device effectively supports heart function by applying external force, reducing mechanical strain and maintenance needs, with wireless energy transmission ensuring long-term operation and durability.
Implementation Method 1
The operating device could use magnetic power. According to one embodiment the operating device is the implantable device wherein the first part comprises coils and said second part comprises magnets. The device could then be operated by successive energizing of said coils which in connection with the magnets creates movements.
Implementation Method 2
said second part exerts, directly or indirectly, force on an external part of said heart muscle
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to an implantable device for improving the pump function of the heart of a human patient by applying an external force on the heart muscle. The device is provided with a first part having a first surface comprising a ceramic material, and a second part having a second surface comprising a ceramic material.