Wireless Implantable Data Communication via Magnetic Induction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless implantable data communication systems face challenges in efficiently communicating data from implanted devices due to limitations in power consumption, circuit complexity, and compliance with wireless communication regulations, particularly when transmitting complex data across biological barriers.
Innovation Solution
A wireless implantable data communication system using an implantable device with a sensing device generating a characteristic signal, converted into encoded pulses by a signal conversion module, and propagated through an inductor for magnetic coupling to an external receiving device, which reconstructs the signal to monitor internal characteristics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If traditional wireless communication techniques are used in implantable devices, then data communication capability is provided, but power consumption increases and device lifespan decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the traditional communication approach by having the external device transmit data to the implantable device via magnetic induction, rather than having the implantable device transmit data outward. This reversal eliminates the need for high-power transmit antennas and power amplifiers within the implantable device, significantly reducing its power consumption and extending operational lifespan.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces magnetic induction as an intermediary mechanism for data communication. By using magnetic fields as the communication medium between external and implantable devices, the system avoids direct electrical connections and high-power radio frequency transmission, thereby reducing power consumption within the implantable device.
2Adaptability or versatility
If complex data transmission is implemented in implantable devices, then communication capability is improved, but circuit complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts complex communication processing functions from the implantable device and relocates them to the external device. The implantable device only requires simple magnetic induction reception and basic signal processing, while complex modulation, demodulation, and data processing are performed externally, thereby reducing circuit complexity within the implantable device.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent inverts the traditional architecture where the implantable device was the active transmitter. Now the external device serves as the active transmitter and the implantable device as the passive receiver, simplifying the implantable device's circuit requirements while maintaining robust communication capability.
3Loss of information
If implantable devices transmit data externally, then data communication is achieved, but power consumption efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent reverses the data transmission direction so that the external device transmits data to the implantable device rather than the reverse. This inversion allows the implantable device to operate in a low-power reception mode using magnetic induction, eliminating the need for high-power transmission circuits and significantly improving power consumption efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces active electronic transmission mechanisms with passive magnetic induction reception. By using magnetic fields to induce currents in the implantable device's coil, the system achieves data communication without requiring the implantable device to generate high-power electromagnetic signals, thereby improving energy efficiency.
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 system enables efficient communication of intra-body signals with reduced power consumption and complexity, allowing for extended device lifespan and evolution of processing techniques without altering the implanted unit, while maintaining biocompatibility and compliance with regulations.
Implementation Method 1
an inductor operatively coupled to said signal conversion module for propagation therethrough of said encoded signal; and an external receiving device comprising an external inductor for disposal at a distance from said implantable inductor for operative magnetic coupling thereto
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein is a wireless implantable communication system, method and sensing device, wherein an implantable data conversion module is adapted for operative coupling to a distinct or integrated implantable sensing device for the conversion of a characteristic signal for transmission thereof to an external receiver, e.g. by way of an inductive element. Upon positioning an external inductive element in the vicinity of the implanted device, a corresponding signal is induced within the external element allowing for reconstruction of the converted signal, and thereby allowing for recovery of the characteristic signal. Embodiments for the communication of data across a biological barrier, including communications from an external transmitter to an implanted receiver, an implanted transmitter to an external receiver, and an implanted transmitter/receiver pair are also disclosed.