Wireless Charger Inductive Coil for Implantable Device Powering
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing implantable medical devices, such as cochlear implants, require periodic power recharging, and current methods rely on closely coupled coils for transcutaneous power transfer, which can be cumbersome and inefficient, especially for fully implantable devices that operate independently without external components.
Innovation Solution
A wireless charger system with a rechargeable power supply and an inductive coil that can both receive and transmit power, allowing for efficient power transfer from an auxiliary charger to the implantable power supply, and also functions as an external accessory, simplifying the charging process and eliminating the need for continuous headpiece coil proximity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If closely coupled coils are used for transcutaneous power transfer, then power can be transferred to implantable devices, but the system becomes cumbersome and requires continuous external device proximity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the power transfer function from the traditional external headpiece device and relocates it to an implantable power supply within the implantable device itself. This allows the external headpiece to be removed or used independently without requiring continuous coupling for power transfer, resolving the contradiction between reliable power transfer and charging convenience.
Solution Approach 2:
The implantable power supply serves multiple functions: it provides power during device operation and also receives power for recharging when the headpiece is not in use. This multi-functionality allows the system to maintain reliable power transfer while eliminating the need for continuous external device proximity, improving ease of operation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If implantable power supply is used to enable independent operation, then device independence is improved, but power recharging becomes more complex without external components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the power transfer coil and power management circuitry within the implantable device itself, merging the functions of power reception and power distribution into a single integrated system. This reduces charging system complexity while maintaining device independence, as the implantable unit can autonomously manage its power supply and recharging without requiring complex external charging infrastructure.
3Duration of action of moving object
If headpiece coil is not continuously required for operation, then device autonomy is improved, but power recharging efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The implantable power supply is pre-charged to sufficient capacity to enable extended operational duration without the headpiece. The system performs preliminary power storage during periods when the headpiece is available, allowing the device to operate independently for extended periods while maintaining efficient power recharging capability when the headpiece is present.
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
Enables efficient and convenient power recharging of implantable medical devices, enhancing their operational independence and user experience by using a single inductive coil for both power transfer and reception, and integrating charging functionality into a wearable device.
Implementation Method 1
an inductive coil configured to transcutaneously transfer power from the charger power supply to the implantable power supply
Implementation Method 2
configured to detect and receive, via the inductive coil, power from the auxiliary charger for recharging of the charger power supply
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
An implantable medical device, comprising an implantable component having a rechargeable power supply and an external wireless charger. The wireless charger has a rechargeable power supply, and an inductive coil configured to transcutaneously transfer power from the charger power supply to the implantable power supply, and configured to detect and receive, via the inductive coil, power from an auxiliary charger for recharging of the charger power supply.