ME Backscatter Links for Miniature Implant Data and Power
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless power and data delivery systems for miniature bioelectronic implants face challenges such as power efficiency, spatial distribution limitations, and data transfer complexity, particularly for multi-mote systems with varying alignments and positions within the body.
Innovation Solution
A passive, power-efficient backscattering communication system using magnetoelectric (ME) films that modulate resonance frequency for data transmission, combined with closed-loop power control and bidirectional communication, enabling simultaneous power and data transfer with high efficiency and flexibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If wireless power delivery is used to decrease device size and invasiveness, then device miniaturization is achieved, but power transfer efficiency and data transmission capability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional electromagnetic inductive coupling with magnetoelectric (ME) coupling mechanism. The external transmitter generates a magnetic field that directly induces electric fields in the ME film of the implantable device, enabling more efficient wireless power transfer to miniaturized devices without requiring large coils or batteries.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the unique magnetoelectric properties of the ME film material, which can convert magnetic field energy to electric field energy with high efficiency. By changing the coupling mechanism from purely electromagnetic to magnetoelectric, the system achieves improved power transfer efficiency despite device miniaturization.
2Volume of moving object
If miniature implantable devices are used, then invasiveness is reduced, but data transfer capability and programming flexibility worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional electromagnetic communication with magnetoelectric backscattering communication. The implantable device modulates the ME film's resonance frequency in response to magnetic field stimuli, encoding data that is detected by external magnetic field sensors, enabling reliable bidirectional communication for programming and data transfer.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes resonance frequency modulation of the ME film as the basis for data encoding. By tuning the ME film to specific resonant frequencies and detecting these frequency shifts externally, the system achieves reliable wireless communication for programming multiple channels and retrieving data from miniaturized implants.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multi-mote systems are implemented to increase stimulation channels, then application versatility improves, but spatial distribution and alignment flexibility deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables a single external transmitter to simultaneously power and communicate with multiple implantable devices (motles) distributed throughout the body. Each mote can be individually programmed and controlled, allowing versatile multi-site stimulation applications while maintaining spatial flexibility and ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements bidirectional communication where each implantable device can send feedback signals to the external transmitter, enabling the system to identify, address, and control multiple devices independently. This feedback mechanism allows for individual programming of each mote's stimulation parameters regardless of spatial position or alignment.
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 system achieves a 5% peak power transfer efficiency and 62.3-kbps maximum data rate with a 6-cm distance, supporting flexible deployment of miniaturized implants with improved specificity and reduced infection risks, suitable for applications like multisite spinal cord stimulation and nerve injury rehabilitation.
Implementation Method 1
passive, power-efficient backscattering communication system using magnetoelectric (ME) films that modulate resonance frequency for data transmission
Implementation Method 2
modulate resonance frequency for data transmission
Implementation Method 3
wireless power delivery is desired where an external transmitter delivers power to a miniature implanted mote
Data Source
AI summary
Exemplary embodiments of this disclosure include apparatus, systems and methods utilizing a passive, power-efficient backscattering communication system that enables transmitting data wirelessly between implantable magnetoelectric (ME) devices and an external base station. Certain embodiments encode the transmitted data through modulating the resonance frequency of a ME film by digitally tuning its electric loading conditions.