Smart Polymer Coated Implantable Probe for Dynamic EM Field Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional implantable biomedical devices lack the ability to dynamically control electromagnetic fields post-implantation, as their electromagnetic field profiles are predetermined and cannot adapt to changes in the patient's body, and their invasive nature makes replacement difficult.
Innovation Solution
The development of an implantable biomedical probe with a substrate and metallic coils, coated with a smart polymer layer that changes magnetic susceptibility in response to optical stimuli, allowing for dynamic modulation of the electromagnetic field by shining light at specific locations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional implantable biomedical devices are used, then the device structure is simple and fabrication is straightforward, but the electromagnetic field profile is predetermined and cannot be adjusted post-implantation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by incorporating a smart polymer layer that can dynamically change its magnetic susceptibility in response to optical stimuli (light irradiation). This allows the electromagnetic field profile to be adjusted post-implantation without replacing the device. The smart polymer layer transitions from a static component to a dynamic control element, enabling real-time modulation of the electromagnetic field characteristics based on external light signals.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by utilizing the photo-responsive properties of the smart polymer layer, which changes its magnetic susceptibility parameter when exposed to light. This parameter change enables dynamic control of the electromagnetic field profile without altering the physical structure of the device. The magnetic susceptibility of the smart polymer can be modulated between different states (e.g., high and low susceptibility) through optical stimulation, thereby adjusting the electromagnetic field characteristics.
2Reliability
If the device is implanted close to the targeted region to achieve effective treatment, then the treatment efficacy is improved, but the invasive nature of the implantation makes replacement difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the self-service principle by enabling the implanted device to adjust and optimize its own electromagnetic field profile through external optical control. The smart polymer layer allows the device to adapt to changing physiological conditions and treatment requirements without requiring surgical intervention or replacement. This self-adjustment capability extends the functional lifespan of the device and eliminates the need for replacement even if treatment parameters need to be modified.
Solution Approach 2:
The dynamics principle addresses the replacement issue by providing a mechanism for post-implantation adaptation. Since the smart polymer layer can be controlled externally via light, the device can be reconfigured for different treatment scenarios without removal or replacement. This dynamic controllability transforms a permanently fixed implant into an adaptable system that can serve multiple treatment purposes over time.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the electromagnetic field profile is predetermined at design time, then the device fabrication is straightforward, but the device cannot react to changes in the patient's body
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the composite materials principle by combining conventional metallic coils with a smart polymer layer that has photo-responsive magnetic properties. This composite structure integrates the simplicity of traditional electromagnetic coil fabrication with the adaptability of advanced functional materials. The metallic coils provide the basic electromagnetic field generation, while the smart polymer layer adds the capability to modulate the field profile dynamically, achieving both fabrication simplicity and adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The parameter changes principle is implemented through the smart polymer layer's ability to change its magnetic susceptibility in response to light. This allows the device to react to changes in the patient's body by adjusting the electromagnetic field parameters (intensity, distribution, focal point) without requiring complex fabrication processes. The base device can be manufactured using standard techniques, and the adaptive functionality is added through the photo-responsive material layer.
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
Enables dynamic control of electromagnetic fields within the body, enhancing treatment efficacy by adjusting the electromagnetic field profile in real-time, and facilitating easier post-implantation adjustments without the need for invasive replacement.
Implementation Method 1
A respective metallic coil is configured to generate an electromagnetic field in response to an alternating current flowing through the metallic coil
Implementation Method 2
The smart polymer layer can include at least one photo-switching magnetic material that changes magnetic susceptibility in response to optical stimuli
Data Source
AI summary
One embodiment provides an implantable biomedical probe. The probe can include a substrate and one or more metallic coils positioned above the substrate. A respective metallic coil is configured to generate an electromagnetic field in response to an alternating current flowing through the metallic coil. The probe can further include a smart polymer layer positioned above the metallic coils. The smart polymer layer can include at least one photo-switching magnetic material that changes magnetic susceptibility in response to optical stimuli.