Transcutaneous Energy Transfer Coil Alignment via Visual Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing transcutaneous energy transfer (TET) devices for implantable medical devices face challenges in maintaining efficient energy transfer due to alignment issues between external and internal coils, leading to reduced efficiency and increased exposure time, which can cause tissue damage.
Innovation Solution
A charging device with integrated power supply, electrical circuitry, and communications interface that includes sense coils to provide directional alignment instructions, ensuring optimal alignment between the external TET coil and the implanted medical device's charging coil, thereby enhancing energy transfer efficiency and reducing exposure time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If visual or tactile signs of implantation are used to approximate IPG location, then the operator can locate the general area of the implant, but precise alignment of the TET coil with the charging coil is extremely difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs feedback mechanisms through visual indicators (such as LED lights or display elements) that provide real-time information to the operator about the alignment status between the TET coil and the IPG charging coil. These indicators show whether the coils are properly aligned or misaligned, enabling the operator to adjust the TET coil position accordingly to achieve optimal alignment for efficient energy transfer.
2Productivity
If the external TET coil and implanted coil are not properly aligned, then the operator can still initiate charging, but the efficiency of transcutaneous energy transfer is detrimentally affected
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides feedback to the operator regarding the alignment quality between the TET coil and IPG charging coil through visual indicators. This feedback enables the operator to adjust the TET coil position to achieve optimal alignment, thereby maximizing energy transfer efficiency and minimizing energy loss during the charging process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary alignment indication before the charging process begins. The visual indicators show the alignment status in advance, allowing the operator to correct any misalignment issues before initiating energy transfer. This preliminary action ensures that charging starts with optimal alignment, preventing energy loss from the outset.
3Loss of energy
If the TET device maintains ideal alignment throughout the charging process, then energy transfer efficiency is maximized, but patient movement may cause misalignment over time
Solution Approach 1:
The visual indicators continue to provide real-time feedback throughout the charging process, not just at the beginning. If patient movement causes misalignment during charging, the indicators alert the operator to the degraded alignment status, enabling corrective action to restore optimal positioning and maintain energy transfer efficiency.
4Reliability
If prolonged exposure to electromagnetic fields and heat is required due to poor alignment, then charging can still complete, but damage to human skin and adjacent tissues increases
Solution Approach 1:
The visual indicators provide preliminary alignment guidance before charging begins, ensuring that the TET coil is optimally positioned. This preliminary action prevents the need for prolonged exposure to electromagnetic fields and heat by establishing efficient energy transfer from the start, thereby minimizing tissue heating and potential damage while still ensuring charging completion.
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
The solution improves alignment accuracy and efficiency of energy transfer, reducing the time required for charging and minimizing tissue exposure to electromagnetic radiation and heat.
Implementation Method 1
TET involves the process of inductive coupling between two coils positioned in close proximity to each other on opposite sides of a cutaneous boundary. The external transmitter coil, composed of a plurality of wire windings, is energized by a source of alternating electrical current. This flow of electrical current in the external transmitter coil induces a corresponding current in the windings of the internal receiver coil.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present disclosure involves a charging system for charging an implanted medical system. The charging device includes a replenishable power supply. The charging device includes a coil assembly electrically coupled to the power supply. The coil assembly includes a primary coil and a plurality of sense coils positioned proximate to the primary coil. The charging device includes electrical circuitry operable to: measure an electrical parameter of the coil assembly; and determine a position of the coil assembly relative to a position of the implanted medical device based on the measured electrical parameter. The charging device includes a visual communications interface operable to: receive an input from the electrical circuitry; and visually display on a screen the position of the coil assembly relative to the position of the implanted medical device based on the input received from the electrical circuitry.