LVAD Controller Modulates Charging Rate via Multi-Source Inputs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current implantable left ventricular assist device (LVAD) systems require human intervention for charging rate decisions, which can lead to safety hazards and reduced patient acceptance due to the need for manual adjustments.
Innovation Solution
An implantable controller within the LVAD system that uses processing circuitry to collect and coordinate inputs from internal and external components, as well as clinician devices, to automate the determination and modulation of charging rates based on various parameters such as temperature and battery capacity, thereby reducing the need for human interaction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual charging rate decisions are implemented, then human control and monitoring are maintained, but safety hazards increase and patient acceptance decreases due to need for continuous human interaction
Solution Approach 1:
The implantable controller automatically determines and adjusts charging rates based on real-time temperature readings from multiple sensors and battery capacity data, without requiring manual human intervention. The system monitors itself and makes autonomous charging decisions, eliminating the need for continuous human oversight while improving safety through automated hazard mitigation
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors temperature from multiple sensors (internal controller temperature, battery temperature, external device temperature) and battery capacity, using this feedback to dynamically adjust the charging rate. This closed-loop feedback mechanism ensures safe operation by automatically reducing charging power when temperature thresholds are approached while maintaining optimal charging when conditions permit
2Reliability
If automated charging rate determination is implemented, then safety and patient acceptance are improved, but system complexity increases due to multiple sensors and processing requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The implantable controller performs multiple functions: it manages LVAD pump operation, monitors battery capacity, processes temperature data from multiple sensors, determines charging rates, and controls wireless power reception. By consolidating these diverse functions into a single multi-functional controller, the system achieves high safety through automated charging management without proportionally increasing overall system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple temperature sensors (internal controller sensor, battery sensor, external device sensor) and their processing functions into a unified charging rate determination system. This merging of sensing and control functions into a single integrated approach simplifies the system architecture compared to having separate independent control systems for each function
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 automation enhances safety and efficacy by minimizing human error, improving patient acceptance, and providing real-time temperature monitoring and notification options to prevent overheating, thus ensuring optimal power management and system performance.
Implementation Method 1
The coils 18 and 20 transfer power by mutual induction of electromagnetic energy over the air and through the body
Data Source
AI summary
A controller implantable within the body of a patient as part of a left ventricular assist device (LVAD) system and a method therefore are provided. According to one aspect, the controller includes processing circuitry configured to receive inputs from at least one of: at least one internal component of the LVAD system, at least one external component of the LVAD system, and at least one clinician's device, and determine a charging rate for charging a battery of the LVAD system internal to the patient based on at least one of the received inputs.