Portable Controller for Mechanical Circulation Support Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current mechanical circulation support systems for heart failure patients, such as VADs and TAHs, face challenges in providing uninterrupted power and comfortable wearable configurations, particularly due to limitations in battery management and device design.
Innovation Solution
A portable external device for mechanical circulation support systems featuring a hinged housing with redundant power sources, including a primary and backup battery pack, and control electronics, which ensures continuous operation and adaptable form factors for patient comfort.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single battery pack is used in the portable external device, then the device complexity is reduced, but the reliability of uninterrupted power supply to the implantable blood pump deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a backup battery pack alongside the primary battery pack in the portable external device. This backup power source is positioned to automatically take over if the primary battery fails or becomes disconnected, providing beforehand cushioning against power interruption to the implantable blood pump, thereby resolving the contradiction between device complexity and reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a locking mechanism that specifically targets the battery pack connection interface to prevent simultaneous disconnection. This localized quality enhancement at the connection point ensures that even if one battery pack is removed, the other remains securely connected and functional, addressing the reliability concern without requiring complete system redundancy.
2Reliability
If multiple battery packs are secured in the portable external device, then the reliability of power supply is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to increased difficulty in battery management
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a locking mechanism that automatically engages when battery packs are installed in the portable external device. This self-service feature eliminates the need for manual locking operations by the patient, allowing reliable dual battery operation while maintaining ease of operation. The locking mechanism self-activates upon proper battery insertion, preventing simultaneous disconnection without adding operational complexity.
3Strength
If a rigid housing structure is used to protect the battery packs, then the strength and protection are improved, but the adaptability for various wearable configurations deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a hinged housing structure that can transition between open and closed positions, allowing the portable external device to adapt to various wearable configurations such as belt attachment, pocket carrying, or handheld use. The hinged design maintains structural strength when closed for protection while enabling dynamic reconfiguration for different patient needs and activities, resolving the contradiction between strength and adaptability.
Data Source
AI summary
A portable external device for a mechanical circulation support system includes first and second power sources, e.g. batteries and control electronics for redundant uninterrupted operation of an implantable blood pump. The control and power source module may be configured for variable form factors to accommodate a variety of wearable configurations for patient convenience and comfort.