Implantable Auxiliary Connection Using Two-Wire Power and Signal Modes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional hearing aids relying on air conduction are ineffective for individuals with conductive hearing loss, and existing implantable devices face challenges in efficiently interfacing and powering auxiliary devices, leading to bulkier cables and complex data transfer methods.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing a two-wire interface for an implantable stimulator device and auxiliary device, operating in different modes to control battery charging and signal transmission, allowing for simplified power and data management, and enabling the auxiliary device to have its own power source for improved efficiency and reduced cable thickness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional hearing aid using air conduction is used, then it can treat conductive hearing loss, but it is ineffective for individuals with sensorineural hearing loss
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the hearing assistance function into two distinct implantable devices: a stimulator device for sensorineural hearing loss and an auxiliary device for conductive hearing loss. This segmentation allows each device to be optimized for its specific function while working together through the implanted cable, resolving the contradiction by making the system adaptable to different types of hearing loss without compromising effectiveness for either condition.
2Adaptability or versatility
If an implantable auxiliary device is connected via a cable, then it can provide additional functionality, but the cable becomes bulky and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The implanted cable is designed with multi-functionality to resolve the contradiction. It serves as a universal interface that can transmit both power signals and data signals bidirectionally between the stimulator and auxiliary devices. This universal design eliminates the need for separate dedicated cables for different functions, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining full adaptability for various auxiliary device configurations and functions.
3Ease of operation
If the auxiliary device has its own battery, then it can operate independently, but charging the battery adds complexity to the power management
Solution Approach 1:
The power management system employs dynamic switching between two operational modes: a first mode where the auxiliary device battery is charged from the stimulator device, and a second mode where the auxiliary device operates independently using its own battery. This dynamic approach allows the system to adapt to different usage scenarios, providing independent operation when needed while simplifying power management through automated mode transitions based on connection status and power availability.
4Loss of information
If data transfer is enabled over the implanted cable, then communication between devices is achieved, but interference and signal quality deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements periodic action by dynamically switching between data transfer mode and power transfer mode over the implanted cable. Rather than continuously transmitting data which causes interference, the system periodically alternates between receiving data signals from the auxiliary device and providing power to charge its battery. This periodic switching reduces signal interference and maintains data quality while ensuring reliable communication between the stimulator and auxiliary devices.
Data Source
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AI summary
An implantable medical system including an implantable stimulator device and an implantable auxiliary device. An implantable cable electrically connects the implantable stimulator device and the implantable auxiliary device. The implantable auxiliary device has an auxiliary device rechargeable battery and an auxiliary component. The implantable medical system is configured to selectively operate in a first mode or a second mode. The implantable medical system is configured to, based on the mode, control charging the auxiliary device rechargeable battery from the implantable stimulator device over the implantable cable and control transmission of an auxiliary device signal from the auxiliary component to the implantable stimulator device over the implantable cable.