Implanted TETS Coil Misalignment Detection for Hermetic Package Heating
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Solution Overview
Problem
High levels of heating in the hermetic package of an implanted transcutaneous energy transfer system (TETS) coil occur when the external coil becomes misaligned, exceeding thermal requirements.
Innovation Solution
A method and controller for monitoring power transfer between the implanted and external TETS coils, detecting power loss, and generating alerts to align the coils or indicate foreign objects, with mechanisms to adjust or suspend power transfer based on misalignment thresholds and time periods.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of stationary object
If power transfer is maintained between misaligned coils, then continuous power supply is ensured, but excessive heating of the hermetic package occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously monitors power transfer efficiency and provides feedback to the controller. When misalignment is detected through monitoring power loss, the controller adjusts power transfer accordingly, reducing or suspending it to prevent overheating while maintaining continuous operation when properly aligned
Solution Approach 2:
The power transfer system dynamically adjusts its operation based on real-time alignment conditions. The controller modulates power transfer levels - maintaining full power when coils are properly aligned, reducing power when minor misalignment is detected, and suspending power when severe misalignment occurs, thereby adapting to changing conditions
2Temperature
If power transfer is reduced or suspended to prevent heating, then thermal safety is maintained, but continuous power supply is interrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The system takes preliminary action by detecting misalignment through power loss monitoring before excessive heating occurs. By identifying alignment issues early and adjusting power transfer proactively, the system prevents thermal damage while minimizing interruptions to power supply
3Ease of operation
If misalignment detection and alert systems are implemented, then proper alignment is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-diagnosis by monitoring its own power transfer efficiency. The controller detects misalignment conditions through built-in monitoring of power loss and automatically generates alerts or adjusts operation, eliminating the need for external alignment tools or complex manual detection systems
Solution Approach 2:
The controller serves multiple functions - it manages power transfer, monitors alignment through power loss detection, generates alerts to users, and adjusts operation dynamically. This multi-functionality consolidates what could be separate complex systems into a single integrated controller, reducing overall device complexity
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
Effectively manages coil misalignment and foreign object presence to prevent overheating of the hermetic package, ensuring safe and efficient power transfer.
Implementation Method 1
Implanted TETS coils for wireless power transfer
Data Source
AI summary
A method of monitoring heating of a hermetic package of an implanted transcutaneous energy transfer system (TETS) coil, the method includes monitoring a power transfer between the implanted TETS coil and an external TETS coil; detecting an amount of power lost during the power transfer; determining if the amount of power lost during the power transfer is above a first predetermined threshold; if the power lost is above the first predetermined threshold, determining if a misalignment between the implanted TETS coil and the external TETS coil is greater than a predetermined distance; and if the misalignment is greater than the predetermined distance, generating an alert to align the external TETS coil with the implanted TETS coil.