Implantable Device Impedance Module for Lead-Borne Communication
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Solution Overview
Problem
Implantable medical devices (IMDs) face challenges in efficiently communicating with lead-borne medical devices, such as sensors and switching devices, without requiring additional circuitry or interfaces, while maintaining electrical integrity and reducing the number of conductors needed.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of an impedance measurement module within the IMD that generates impedance measurement signals and communication signals using the same source, allowing for the measurement of impedance and communication with lead-borne devices like satellites, which are integrated into the lead structure, thereby utilizing existing circuitry for both functions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If additional circuitry or interfaces are added to enable communication with lead-borne devices, then communication capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The impedance measurement module is designed to perform multiple functions: it measures lead impedance for safety monitoring and simultaneously serves as a communication interface with lead-borne devices. By making the module universal, the patent avoids adding separate communication circuitry, thus improving adaptability without increasing device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the impedance measurement function and communication function into a single integrated module. The same hardware resources (current source, ADC, processor) are shared between impedance measurement and communication tasks, eliminating the need for additional dedicated communication interfaces
2Adaptability or versatility
If more conductors are added to the lead for additional functions, then functionality is improved, but the number of conductors increases
Solution Approach 1:
Existing lead conductors are made multi-functional by using them for both traditional purposes (electrode connections, sensing) and for communication with lead-borne devices. The impedance measurement module utilizes existing conductors to establish communication pathways, avoiding the need for additional dedicated communication conductors
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges communication functionality into existing lead conductors rather than adding separate communication pathways. The same conductors that connect electrodes to the IMD are also used to carry communication signals to and from lead-borne devices, reducing the total number of conductors required
3Device complexity
If the same impedance measurement module is used for both impedance measurement and communication, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision may be affected
Solution Approach 1:
The impedance measurement process is segmented into distinct time intervals separate from communication operations. The IMD performs impedance measurements during dedicated measurement windows and communicates with lead-borne devices during separate communication windows, preventing signal interference and maintaining measurement precision
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs periodic alternation between impedance measurement mode and communication mode. By rhythmically switching between these functions in time-divided manner, the patent allows the same hardware to serve both purposes without compromising the accuracy of either function
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 approach enables reliable communication with lead-borne devices without the need for additional interfaces, reduces the number of conductors required, and ensures the electrical integrity of the lead, allowing for efficient monitoring and therapy delivery.
Implementation Method 1
an impedance measurement module to measure the impedance of an electrical path that includes at least two electrodes
Implementation Method 2
generating, with the source of the impedance measurement module, a communication signal for communication between the implantable medical device and a lead-borne implantable medical device
Data Source
AI summary
Example techniques for communicating between two medical devices are described. One medical device may be an implantable medical device. Another medical device may be a lead-borne implantable medical device. The lead-borne implantable medical device may be referred to as a satellite. The implantable medical device may measure impedance of a path including at least two electrodes, at least one of which is on the lead, using an impedance measurement module. In some example implementations of this disclosure, the implantable medical device may also use the impedance measurement module to communicate with the satellite on the lead.