Implantable Pressure Sensor Membrane for Artificial Heart Flow Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing artificial heart systems face challenges in addressing physiological circulatory imbalances, particularly the flow imbalance between pulmonary and systemic circulations, and require effective pressure sensors to measure blood pressure for controlling stroke rate and volume.
Innovation Solution
A biocompatible pressure sensor with a flexible membrane and MEMS technology is integrated into heart prostheses and assist pumps, measuring venous and arterial pressures to control stroke rate and volume through a controller unit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a pressure sensor is integrated into heart prosthesis to measure blood pressure for controlling stroke rate and volume, then the ability to regulate blood flow and compensate for circulatory imbalances is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The pressure sensor is integrated directly into the housing of the heart prosthesis device, merging the sensing function with the existing pump structure. This consolidation allows blood pressure measurement and flow regulation capabilities to be incorporated without adding separate external monitoring equipment, thereby improving adaptability while managing device complexity through functional integration.
2Measurement precision
If a flexible membrane with MEMS sensor is used to measure pressure, then measurement precision is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical pressure sensing mechanisms with a MEMS (microelectromechanical system) sensor integrated into the flexible membrane. This substitution provides higher measurement precision while minimizing the physical size and complexity of the sensing element, as MEMS technology enables accurate pressure detection at a micro-scale within the constrained space of the prosthesis housing.
3Reliability
If biocompatible materials are used for housing and membrane, then reliability and biocompatibility are improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs composite material construction, combining a biocompatible flexible membrane (such as medical-grade polyurethane or silicone) with a rigid biocompatible housing (such as titanium or stainless steel). This composite approach ensures high reliability and biocompatibility by selecting materials specifically suited for each functional requirement, while the modular nature of composite construction allows for standardized manufacturing processes that manage production complexity.
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 solution enables precise regulation of blood flow to match physiological demands, compensating for circulatory imbalances and ensuring optimal operation of artificial hearts and assist pumps.
Implementation Method 1
a pressure transferring medium, arranged in the housing between the membrane and the sensor
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a pressure sensor (100) comprising: a biocompatible housing (110), a biocompatible flexible membrane (120) covering an open portion in the housing (110), a pressure transferring medium, an attachment portion (130), an electrical connection (140), and a pressure sensitive sensor (150).