Transfer Coil Alignment via Locating Signal Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing transfer assemblies for medical implants face challenges in maintaining efficient energy and data transfer due to misalignment of intracorporeal and extracorporeal transfer coils, leading to reduced efficiency and potential infections from line lead-through devices.
Innovation Solution
A transfer assembly with a locating transmitter associated with the implant's transfer coil and a locating receiver with the supply means' transfer coil, along with an evaluating module that issues a locating signal for correcting the offset and direction, using wave types like light, electromagnetic, or acoustic waves to ensure precise alignment and realignment of the coils.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the transfer coil of the supply means is not fixed to the skin by gluing, then the patient's comfort and ease of removal is improved, but the alignment between the intracorporeal and extracorporeal transfer coils deteriorates during movement
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates a feedback mechanism where the position of the intracorporeal transfer coil is detected (e.g., via palpation or marking), and this information is used to guide the placement of the extracorporeal transfer coil. The feedback loop ensures that even without adhesive fixation, the coils can be realigned to maintain optimal coupling during use.
Solution Approach 2:
An intermediary element (such as a marking on the skin or a positioning aid) is introduced to facilitate the alignment between the two transfer coils. This intermediary serves as a reference point that helps maintain spatial relationship without requiring direct fixation, thus preserving both comfort and alignment.
2Productivity
If the two transfer coils are placed one on top of the other as exactly as possible, then the efficiency of energy and data transfer is improved, but the complexity of positioning and alignment increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-alignment through the use of detectable features (such as ferromagnetic materials or RFID tags) associated with the intracorporeal transfer coil. The extracorporeal supply means can automatically detect these features and guide the user to place the coils in optimal alignment, eliminating the need for complex manual positioning procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical alignment procedures with field-based detection methods. Instead of requiring precise mechanical placement, the system uses electromagnetic or magnetic field detection to identify the position of the intracorporeal coil and guide the extracorporeal coil placement, significantly simplifying the alignment process.
3Measurement precision
If a ferromagnetic mat or microchip mat is provided on the implant side for location detection, then the position can be detected, but the direction of offset cannot be clearly determined from the supply means
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces asymmetric or directional features in the detection system. Instead of using isotropic ferromagnetic materials that provide only radial information, the system incorporates anisotropic materials or structured patterns (such as elongated ferromagnetic elements or oriented microchips) that provide directional information about the offset between coils.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from two-dimensional position detection to three-dimensional orientation detection. By incorporating multiple detection elements or using volumetric detection methods, the system can determine not only the position but also the orientation and direction of offset between the transfer coils, providing complete spatial information.
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 improves the efficiency and performance of energy transfer, reduces heat development, extends component lifespan, and enhances data transfer quality by continuously monitoring and correcting the alignment of the transfer coils, allowing for a more comfortable and secure patient experience.
Implementation Method 1
Energy and data are inductively transferred between the two transfer coils
Implementation Method 2
using wave types like light, electromagnetic, or acoustic waves to ensure precise alignment and realignment of the coils
Data Source
AI summary
A transfer assembly comprising an intracorporeal transfer coil of an implant, and an extracorporeal transfer coil of an extracorporeal supply unit. The transfer coil of the implant has permanently associated therewith a transmitting element. The transfer coil of the supply unit has permanently associated therewith at least one receiving element. Further, the supply unit comprises an evaluation module connected with the receiving element and issuing a locating signal depending on an offset and/or a direction of offset of the transmitting element relative to the receiving element.