Reconfigurable Capacitor Network for Implantable Device Power Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
The miniaturization of implantable medical devices (IMDs) is hindered by the need for complex circuitry that increases power consumption and footprint, despite advancements in technology, as conventional therapy stimulation waveforms require high energy for capture thresholds.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of dynamically configured therapy stimulation waveforms with a stepped/ramped leading edge, utilizing a plurality of capacitors stacked in alterable configurations and coupled through a delivery bridge, with a controller and switching circuit to optimize energy discharge and reduce power consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional therapy stimulation waveforms are used, then capture thresholds are achieved, but power consumption is high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the capacitor configuration changeable from static to dynamic. The system transitions from fixed series/parallel configurations to dynamically reconfigurable arrangements where capacitors can be switched between different configurations during charging and discharging phases, enabling optimized power delivery and reduced power consumption while maintaining capture thresholds.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by varying the electrical configuration parameters of the capacitor network. By changing the series/parallel arrangement of capacitors, the voltage and current parameters are dynamically adjusted to optimize the stimulation waveform, achieving capture at lower power consumption levels through optimized voltage distribution and current control.
2Adaptability or versatility
If complex circuitry is used to improve technological capability, then device functionality increases, but device footprint increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a multi-functional capacitor network that serves multiple purposes: energy storage, waveform shaping, voltage regulation, and power optimization. The same reconfigurable capacitor array performs all these functions without requiring separate dedicated circuits, thereby reducing the overall device footprint while maintaining enhanced functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements merging by combining multiple circuit functions into a single integrated capacitor network. Instead of using separate circuits for charging, discharging, waveform generation, and power management, the system merges these functions into one reconfigurable capacitor array controlled by a unified control mechanism, reducing component count and footprint.
3Adaptability or versatility
If complex circuitry is used to improve technological capability, then device functionality increases, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by implementing a reconfigurable capacitor network that can dynamically switch between different series and parallel configurations during operation. This dynamic reconfiguration allows the system to optimize power delivery efficiency and reduce overall power consumption while providing enhanced waveform control and therapeutic versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by varying the electrical configuration of the capacitor network to optimize power efficiency. By changing the series/parallel arrangement, the system adjusts voltage and current parameters to match therapeutic requirements, achieving both enhanced functionality and reduced power consumption through optimized parameter selection.
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 approach reduces the capture thresholds for therapy, thereby expending less power than conventional waveforms, increasing the longevity of IMDs and improving their miniaturization and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The therapy delivery circuit includes a plurality of capacitors that are stacked in one of multiple dynamically-alterable configurations and coupled to a delivery bridge for delivery of the therapy
Data Source
AI summary
Recent advancements in power electronics technology have provided opportunities for enhancements to circuits of implantable medical devices. The enhancements have contributed to increasing circuit miniaturization and an increased efficiency in the operation of the implantable medical devices. The therapy delivery circuits and techniques of the disclosure facilitate generation of a therapy stimulation waveform that may be shaped based on the patient's physiological response to the stimulation waveform. The generated therapy stimulation waveforms include a stepped leading-edge that may be shaped having a varying slope and varying amplitudes associated with each of the segments of the slope. Unlike the truncated exponential waveform delivered by the conventional therapy delivery circuit which is based on the behavior of the output capacitors (i.e., i=C(dV/dt)), the stimulation waveform of the present disclosure may be dynamically shaped as a function of an individual patient's response. The dynamically shaped therapy stimulation waveforms facilitate achieving lower capture thresholds which reduces the device's supply consumption thereby increasing longevity of the device and facilitate a reduction of tissue damage.