Wireless Implant Stimulator Circuit for Battery-Free RF Power
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing implantable stimulators rely on subcutaneous batteries or inductive coils for power, which can be cumbersome and limit the flexibility of therapeutic electrical stimulation techniques for chronic conditions.
Innovation Solution
An integrated circuit for an implantable wirelessly powered device that includes a radio-frequency (RF) to direct current (DC) rectifying circuit, a driving circuit for steering stimulating current to electrodes, and a logic control circuit to generate current and set polarity states, all powered solely by extracted DC electrical power.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of moving object
If subcutaneous batteries are used for power, then the device can operate continuously, but the device complexity and patient burden increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the power source from the implantable device by using wireless power transfer through the skin, eliminating the need for subcutaneous batteries and reducing device complexity while maintaining continuous operation capability
Solution Approach 2:
The external power source serves multiple functions: it provides power to the implantable device, communicates configuration data, and enables flexible adjustment of stimulation parameters without requiring surgical intervention
2Ease of operation
If inductive coils are used for power, then wireless power transfer is achieved, but the flexibility of therapeutic electrical stimulation techniques is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic adaptability by allowing the external controller to wirelessly transmit configuration data that adjusts the operational parameters of the implantable device, enabling flexible modification of therapeutic techniques without physical constraints
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables parameter changes by transmitting configuration data that modifies stimulation amplitude, pulse width, and frequency parameters, allowing adaptation to different therapeutic needs while maintaining wireless operation
3Reliability
If physical connections are used for power delivery, then reliable power transfer is achieved, but the flexibility and patient comfort are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical connection system with an electromagnetic field-based wireless power transfer system, eliminating physical cables and connectors while maintaining reliable power delivery through RF energy transmission through the skin
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
Enables efficient and flexible wireless power delivery and configuration data extraction, allowing for precise modulation of neural tissue without the need for physical connections or batteries, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of therapeutic electrical stimulation.
Implementation Method 1
rectify an input RF signal received at the one or more antennas and from an external controller through electric radiative coupling; and extract DC electric power and configuration data from the input RF signal
Implementation Method 2
steer, to each electrode and via the current mirrors, a stimulating current solely from the generated current to modulate neural tissue within the patient's body
Data Source
AI summary
An integrated circuit includes: a radio-frequency (RF) to direct current (DC) rectifying circuit coupled to one or more antenna on an implantable wirelessly powered device, the rectifying circuit configured to: rectify an input RF signal received at the one or more antennas and from an external controller through electric radiative coupling; and extract DC electric power and configuration data from the input RF signal; a logic control circuit connected to the rectifying circuit and a driving circuit, the logic control circuit configured to: generate a current for the driving circuit solely using the extracted DC electrical power; in accordance with the extracted configuration data, set polarity state information for each electrode; and a driving circuit coupled to one or more electrode, the driving circuit comprising current mirrors and being configured to: steer, to each electrode and via the current mirrors, a stimulating current solely from the generated current.