Implantable Medical Device Switch Matrix for ESD Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Implantable medical devices are susceptible to electrostatic discharge damage during handling, which can go unnoticed until after implantation, leading to costly and risky removal procedures.
Innovation Solution
A switch matrix is integrated between external electrode connections and internal circuitry, allowing switches to be opened for electrostatic discharge protection and closed for operational coupling, with remote control capabilities to switch between modes such as treatment, sensing, and MRI modes to manage noise and energy transfer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the electrode connections are permanently connected to the internal circuitry, then operational functionality is maintained, but the device becomes vulnerable to electrostatic discharge damage
Solution Approach 1:
The switch matrix is configured to automatically open switches during implantation and handling operations before electrostatic discharge could occur, and closes them afterward to restore functionality. This preliminary protective action prevents damage while maintaining operational capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The switch matrix dynamically changes the electrical connection state between electrode connections and internal circuitry based on operational mode. Switches open during implantation to protect against electrostatic discharge, then close during operational modes (treatment, sensing, charging, RF communication, MRI) to enable proper device function.
2Reliability
If switches are opened to protect against electrostatic discharge, then device protection is improved, but operational modes requiring electrode coupling cannot be executed
Solution Approach 1:
The switch matrix transitions from a static connection state to a dynamic one, automatically opening switches during implantation to protect against electrostatic discharge, then closing them during various operational modes (treatment, sensing, charging, RF communication, MRI) to enable proper device function.
Solution Approach 2:
The switch matrix serves multiple functions: protecting against electrostatic discharge during implantation, enabling treatment mode by coupling electrodes to stimulation circuitry, enabling sensing mode by coupling electrodes to sensing circuitry, and managing connections during charging, RF communication, and MRI modes. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction between protection and operational versatility.
3Productivity
If electrode connections are continuously coupled to internal circuitry, then operational performance is maintained, but noise and energy transfer from leads to circuitry increases
Solution Approach 1:
The switch matrix dynamically controls the coupling between electrode connections and internal circuitry, opening switches when not in operational modes to minimize noise and energy transfer from leads, and closing switches during operational modes (treatment, sensing) to maintain operational performance.
4Object-affected harmful factors
If switches are opened during treatment mode, then leakage current is prevented, but therapeutic electrical stimulation cannot be delivered
Solution Approach 1:
The switch matrix closes specific switches during treatment mode to enable therapeutic electrical stimulation delivery through electrode connections while opening other switches to prevent leakage current, dynamically optimizing the connection configuration for safe and effective therapy delivery.
Data Source
AI summary
A particular implantable device includes one or more electrode connectors and multiple circuit elements within a housing. The implantable medical device may also include one or more switches, where each switch of the one or more switches is coupled between one or more of the multiple circuit elements and at least one electrode connector of the one or more electrode connectors.