Variable-Impedance Sensor Array with Switch Control for Medical Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing medical devices, such as stents, face challenges in providing a simple and cost-effective method to distinguish between measurements from multiple sensors implanted in the body, while ensuring accurate positioning and data collection without invasive procedures.
Innovation Solution
A medical device with a system of variable-impedance sensors connected through an electrical measurement circuit, where switches control the current supply to each sensor, allowing for successive configurations to isolate and measure each sensor's contribution to the electromagnetic field emitted, enabling qualitative information on sensor values without complex multiplexing or RFID limitations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple RFID chips are used as sensors in the medical device, then the device can respond to electromagnetic query fields with unique identification codes, but the number of sensors is limited due to increased price and structural complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the measurement function by dividing the sensor array into multiple independent sensing elements that share common electrical pathways. Each sensor can be individually addressed through row-column decoding, allowing multiple sensors to be implemented without proportionally increasing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the measurement circuit universal by using shared column lines and control logic that can address any sensor in the array. The same electrical infrastructure serves multiple sensors simultaneously, eliminating the need for dedicated circuitry for each sensor element.
2Measurement precision
If a multiplexer is used to control switches for each sensor in the stent, then individual sensor measurements can be obtained, but the stent structure becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is segmented into row control and column control units that operate independently. This segmentation allows addressing of individual sensors through coordinate-based selection rather than requiring a separate multiplexer for each sensor, reducing structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds a spatial dimension to sensor addressing by organizing sensors in a two-dimensional array with row and column coordinates. This dimensional approach replaces the need for complex sequential multiplexing with simpler orthogonal control lines.
3Measurement precision
If sensors are distributed on the stent surface to monitor tissue state, then accurate data collection is achieved, but the method to distinguish measurements from multiple sensors becomes complex and invasive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where row control signals and column control signals interact to selectively activate specific sensors. The control system receives feedback about which sensors are active and adjusts subsequent measurements accordingly, enabling clear distinction between multiple sensor readings.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces row control lines and column control lines as intermediary elements between the power source and the sensors. These intermediaries act as switches that can selectively connect any sensor to the measurement circuit without requiring direct individual wiring for each sensor.
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 approach allows for precise, non-invasive monitoring of sensor values and correct implantation verification, reducing device complexity and cost, while enhancing the ability to collect and interpret data from multiple sensors effectively.
Implementation Method 1
an antenna for emitting an electromagnetic field according to the impedance of the electrical measurement circuit
Implementation Method 2
at least two variable-impedance sensors according to a detected physical quantity
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a medical device (12) comprising an electrical measurement circuit (16), in which are connected at least two variable-impedance sensors (22), the impedance of which varies according to a detected physical quantity, an electrical power source (18) for supplying power to the electrical measurement circuit (16), an antenna (18) for emitting an electromagnetic field according to the impedance of the electrical measurement circuit (16), each of the sensors (22) being associated with a switch (24) for interrupting the current supply of the sensor (22) in said measurement circuit (16), the medical device (12) additionally comprising a system (26) for controlling the switches (24) in order to successively control the opening or the closing of the switches (24), according to determined configurations. The medical device (12) may in particular be applied to the human body or implanted within the human body.