Wireless RF Power Transfer for Implantable Medical Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current electronic medical systems with implantable devices for electrical stimulation require multiple surgeries, are bulky due to integrated control units and batteries, and pose challenges with battery replacement and compatibility with medical imaging, as well as containing hazardous materials.
Innovation Solution
An electronic medical system with wireless power supply transfer using an external RF power transmitter and an implantable medical device equipped with a receiver antenna and RF power receiver module, eliminating the need for batteries and reducing surgical procedures by enabling remote power delivery via electromagnetic coupling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of moving object
If an electrochemical energy storage element (battery) is used to power the implantable medical device, then the device can operate independently, but the device volume increases and requires replacement surgery when the battery is depleted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the energy storage function from the implantable medical device by removing the battery entirely. Instead, the device receives power wirelessly through an RF power receiver module that converts electromagnetic energy from an external transmitter into electrical power for operating the control unit and electrodes. This eliminates the volume occupied by the battery while maintaining continuous operational capability.
2Ease of operation
If a battery is implanted in the device, then the device can be fully implantable, but the device contains hazardous materials requiring special disposal procedures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the battery containing hazardous materials (heavy metals, chemicals) from the implantable device. The energy storage function is replaced by wireless power transfer through an RF receiver module, which contains no hazardous substances. This maintains full implantability while eliminating environmental and health risks associated with battery disposal.
3Ease of operation
If the control unit and battery are integrated in the implantable device, then the device can be implanted, but the device requires multiple surgeries for electrode placement and device implantation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the power supply system into two independent components: an external RF power transmitter and an implantable RF power receiver module. This allows the implantable device to be fully functional (with control unit and electrodes) without requiring a battery, enabling single-surgery implantation. The external transmitter can be applied or removed without surgery, providing flexibility for testing and adjustment.
4Use of energy by moving object
If a battery is used for power supply, then the device can store energy, but the device cannot be used during Magnetic Resonant Imaging tests
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the electrochemical battery system with an electromagnetic power transfer system. The implantable device receives power wirelessly through an RF receiver module that converts electromagnetic energy from an external transmitter. This eliminates interference with MRI imaging, as the system uses RF frequencies that do not conflict with MRI's magnetic field operations, while maintaining continuous energy supply capability.
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 solution reduces patient discomfort, minimizes the need for surgeries, avoids hazardous materials, and allows for efficient power transfer, enhancing the operational efficiency and safety of the medical treatment system.
Implementation Method 1
an external RF power transmitter configured to emit a first energy signal via an electromagnetic coupling
Implementation Method 2
an RF power receiver module operatively connected to the at least one receiver antenna, the RF power module being configured to extract a second energy signal having a power of at least 1 mW
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic medical system is described. The system comprises an external RF power transmitter configured to emit a first power signal via an electromagnetic coupling, said RF power transmitter being configured to emit said first energy signal with a power no greater than 1W. The system further comprises an implantable medical device comprising: at least one receiver antenna configured to receive said first energy signal via an electromagnetic coupling; an RF power receiver module configured to extract a second energy signal having a power of at least 1 mW and to be powered by said second energy signal; a power actuator module, operatively connected to the RF power receiver module, powered by said second energy signal. The power actuator module is configured to deliver a medical treatment to at least a target tissue of a patient on the basis of a control signal generated by the RF power receiver module.