Multi-Winding Defibrillator Transformer for Pocket-Sized AED Circuits
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional AEDs are bulky, costly, and complex, limiting their availability and effectiveness in treating sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) outside public access points, primarily due to the design of transformers and high-voltage components that increase size and risk of failure.
Innovation Solution
AED circuits utilizing a multi-winding transformer with isolated sub-circuits and synchronous rectification to generate adjustable bias voltages, reducing component count and size, and enabling a portable, disposable design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If conventional transformers and high-voltage components are used in AEDs, then the device can deliver required defibrillation energy, but the size and weight of the device increases making it bulky and inconvenient for widespread use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the transformer into multiple windings (first winding for bias voltage, second winding for defibrillation energy) that can be independently optimized. This segmentation allows each winding to be designed for its specific function, reducing the overall size compared to a single large transformer while maintaining the required power delivery capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from conventional bulky high-voltage components to a planar integrated circuit implementation. By using printed circuit board traces and integrated high-voltage switches, the design moves from three-dimensional bulky components to a two-dimensional planar layout, dramatically reducing the device footprint and weight while maintaining defibrillation energy delivery.
2Power
If conventional AED design with multiple components is used, then the device can perform defibrillation function, but the device complexity increases leading to higher cost and reduced reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions into a single integrated circuit board design. The transformer windings, high-voltage switches, control logic, and bias voltage generation are all integrated onto one PCB, eliminating the need for separate discrete components and assemblies. This merging reduces component count, lowers cost, and improves reliability by reducing connection points and potential failure modes.
Solution Approach 2:
The first winding of the transformer serves dual purposes: generating the bias voltage required for high-voltage switch operation and providing isolation for the control circuitry. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components, simplifying the overall circuit design and reducing component count while maintaining the required defibrillation energy delivery capability.
3Power
If conventional transformer design is used, then the device can generate required voltages, but the device size increases reducing portability and accessibility
Solution Approach 1:
The transformer is segmented into multiple windings with specific turn ratios optimized for their respective functions. The first winding generates bias voltage at a reduced rate, while the second winding delivers defibrillation energy. This segmentation allows each winding to be minimized in size for its specific purpose, reducing the overall transformer volume compared to a conventional single-winding design.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical/high-voltage transformer design with an integrated circuit approach using printed circuit board traces and solid-state high-voltage switches. This substitution eliminates the need for bulky magnetic cores and windings, reducing the device volume from conventional transformer sizes to a compact planar layout that enables portable AED design.
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 facilitates the development of pocket-sized AEDs that are more reliable, affordable, and widely accessible, increasing survival chances from SCA by ensuring immediate access.
Implementation Method 1
a transformer having a primary winding and a secondary winding, wherein the primary winding is excited to generate a bias voltage through electromagnetic induction
Implementation Method 2
the primary winding is excited to generate a bias voltage through electromagnetic induction, and the bias voltage is rectified through synchronous rectification to provide a regulated DC voltage
Data Source
AI summary
AED pulse generation circuits that provide floating, adjustable, bias voltages for driving a solid-state defibrillation waveform therapy generator circuit are provided. The provided bias voltages allow to reverse polarity of provided electric shock to increase chances of successful defibrillation and survival. In one of the provided configurations, energy stored in the pulse capacitor can be discharged by activating the waveform therapy generator in the high-resistance transconductance region. The circuits can be positioned on a self-contained module potted with an insulating material to reduce unintended interactions with other AED components. Through the use of the disclosed circuits, AED size can be reduced to promote pocketability while simultaneously increasing AED reliability.