Layered Implantable Antenna Layout for Space-Limited IPG Headers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Implantable pulse generators (IPGs) face space constraints in their headers, limiting the size and communication capabilities of antennas due to the presence of other critical components, necessitating the development of compact antenna assemblies suitable for these devices.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a dielectric antenna body with an antenna trace distributed across multiple transverse layers, coupled with a conductive mounting arm and capacitive features that reduce capacitive coupling and allow for tuning of the antenna's performance, enabling efficient wireless communication within the limited space of an IPG header.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If the antenna is made longer to improve communication capabilities, then the communication range and performance are enhanced, but the available header space is exceeded
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a planar antenna layout to a three-dimensional folded configuration. The antenna trace is routed through multiple layers and folded back on itself, utilizing the vertical dimension within the header to achieve a longer effective antenna length without increasing the footprint area. This allows the antenna to maintain extended communication capabilities while fitting within the constrained header space.
2Length of moving object
If the antenna length is increased to improve communication range, then the communication capabilities are enhanced, but the capacitive coupling between different parts of the antenna increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dielectric material as an intermediary between different segments of the antenna trace. This dielectric medium serves to electrically isolate adjacent portions of the antenna, reducing unwanted capacitive coupling while allowing the antenna to maintain its extended folded configuration. The dielectric acts as a mediator that enables longer antenna length without the harmful effects of increased capacitive interference.
3Adaptability or versatility
If more components are placed in the header to maintain functionality, then the device capabilities are preserved, but the space available for the antenna is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
By utilizing the third dimension (vertical layering) for the antenna configuration, the patent enables the antenna to occupy space that would otherwise be unused vertical volume within the header. This dimensional transition allows critical components to remain in the horizontal plane while the antenna extends vertically through folded traces across multiple layers, effectively increasing antenna space without compromising device functionality.
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 solution allows for a longer antenna length while minimizing capacitive coupling, enhancing communication capabilities within the space-limited environment of IPGs, thereby improving the performance and efficiency of wireless communication in implantable medical devices.
Implementation Method 1
capacitive features that reduce capacitive coupling
Implementation Method 2
enabling efficient wireless communication
Data Source
AI summary
Methods for manufacturing implantable electronic devices include forming an antenna of the implantable electronic device by delivering an antenna trace within a dielectric antenna body. The antenna trace includes a first trace portion disposed in a first transverse layer and defining a first trace path and a second trace portion disposed in a second transverse layer longitudinally offset from the first transverse layer and defining a second trace path. If projected to be coplanar, the first trace path defines a trace boundary and the second trace path is within the trace boundary.