Entries |
Document | Title | Date |
20080200968 | BIOTHERMAL POWER SOURCE FOR IMPLANTABLE DEVICES - An implantable, rechargeable assembly comprised of an implantable device disposed within a living organism, an electrical storage device connected to the implantable device, and a thermoelectric charging assembly operatively connected to the electrical storage device. The thermoelectric charging assembly has devices for transferring thermal energy between the living organism and a thermoelectric module, for generating an electrical current from the thermal energy, for charging the electrical storage device with the electrical current, for determining the extent to which the electrical storage device is being charged with the electrical current, and for generating a signal whenever the extent to which the electrical storage device is being charged with the electrical current falls below a specified value. | 08-21-2008 |
20080208293 | VOLTAGE CONVERTER FOR IMPLANTABLE MICROSTIMULATOR USING RF-POWERING COIL - A combination, voltage converter circuit for use within an implantable device, such as a microstimulator, uses a coil, instead of capacitors, to provide a voltage step up and step down conversion functions. The output voltage is controlled, or adjusted, through duty-cycle modulation. In accordance with one aspect of the invention, applicable to implantable devices having an existing RF coil through which primary or charging power is provided, the existing RF coil is used in a time-multiplexing scheme to provide both the receipt of the RF signal and the voltage conversion function. This minimizes the number of components needed within the device, and thus allows the device to be packaged in a smaller housing or frees up additional space within an existing housing for other circuit components. In accordance with another aspect of the invention, the voltage up/down converter circuit is controlled by a pulse width modulation (PWM) low power control circuit. Such operation allows high efficiencies over a wide range of output voltages and current loads. | 08-28-2008 |
20080281380 | MEDICAL SYSTEM WITH GALVANIC SEPARATION - A medical system with a medical device and with a supply unit. The supply unit is designed to be separably connected to the medical device and to supply the medical device with electric energy without interruption. The medical system has an isolating transformer and a changeover device, wherein the changeover device is connected to the isolating transformer and to the medical device and is designed to connect the medical device or the supply unit to an electric supply network via the isolating transformer as desired. | 11-13-2008 |
20080300660 | Power generation for implantable devices - An implantable, rechargeable medical system comprised of an implanted device, a power storage device connected to the implantable device, and a charging device operatively connected to the electrical storage device. The charging device can be thermoelectric and have components for transferring thermal energy from an intracranial heat accumulator to an extra-cranial heat sink, for generating an electrical current from the thermal energy transfer, for charging the electrical storage device using the electrical current, for measuring power generation, usage and reserve levels, for measuring temperatures of the intracranial and extra-cranial components, for physically disrupting heat transfer and charging operations, and for generating signals relevant to the status of temperature and electricity transfer in relation to energy generation criteria. The system may also have long-range and short range wireless power harvesting capability as well as movement, and photovoltaic charging capability. Components may be dual purpose, being used for receiving wireless energy as well as for accomplishing other operations such as sensing or stimulating. Specialized accessories assist with providing enhanced wireless power charging. | 12-04-2008 |
20080312720 | MULTI-ELEMENT ACOUSTIC RECHARGING SYSTEM - An acoustic energy delivery system for delivering acoustic energy to an implantable medical device (“IMD”). The system includes an IMD having a power source and an energy delivery device. The energy delivery device includes a controller and an array of ultrasonic elements electrically coupled to the controller and configured to deliver acoustic energy to the IMD. Methods of delivering acoustic energy to an IMD are also disclosed. | 12-18-2008 |
20080319512 | Apparatus, System, and Method for Transcutaneously Transferring Energy - An apparatus for transcutaneously transferring an amount of energy to an implantable orthopaedic device includes a primary coil. The primary coil has a resonant frequency matched to a resonant frequency of a secondary coil, which may form part of the implantable orthopaedic device. The primary coil may have an aperture configured to receive a portion of a patient's body or may include a substantially “C”-shaped core. A power circuit may be coupled with the primary coil to provide power to the coil. The apparatus may also include a wireless receiver, a measuring device, and/or a display. | 12-25-2008 |
20090054952 | SYSTEM FOR TRANSMITTING ELECTRICAL CURRENT TO A BODILY TISSUE - In some embodiments, an apparatus includes a substrate, a power source, a connector, electrical circuitry, and an electrode assembly. The substrate has a first surface and a second surface different than the first surface. The power source has a positive terminal and a negative terminal Each of the positive terminal and the negative terminal are coupled to the substrate. The power source is configured to provide power to an external stimulator coupled to the apparatus. The connector is disposed proximate to the first surface of the substrate and is electrically coupled to at least one of the positive terminal and the negative terminal of the power source. The connector is configured to electrically couple the external stimulator to the power source. The electrical circuitry is coupled to the substrate. The electrical circuitry is configured to electrically couple the connector to at least one of the positive terminal and the negative terminal of the power source. At least one of the connector or the electrical circuitry is configured to prevent a short circuit of the electrical circuit. The electrode assembly is coupled to the second surface of the substrate. At least one electrode of the electrode assembly is configured to contact bodily tissue and to facilitate transmission of an electrical current through the bodily tissue. | 02-26-2009 |
20090069869 | ROTATING FIELD INDUCTIVE DATA TELEMETRY AND POWER TRANSFER IN AN IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE SYSTEM - An improved implantable medical device system having dual coils in one of the devices in the system is disclosed. The dual coils are used preferably in an external device such as an external controller or an external charger. The dual coils are wrapped around axes that are preferably orthogonal, although other non-zero angles could be used as well. When used to transmit, the two coils are driven (for example, with FSK-modulated data when the transmitting data) out of phase, preferably at 90 degrees out of phase. This produces a magnetic field which rotates, and which reduces nulls in the coupling between the external device and the receiving coil within the implanted device. Moreover, implementation of the dual coils to transmit requires no change in the receiver circuitry of the implanted device. Should the device with dual coils also receive transmissions from the other device (e.g., the implanted device), the two coils are used in conjunction with optional receiver circuitry which likewise phase shifts the received modulated data signals from each coil and presents their sum to typical demodulation circuitry. | 03-12-2009 |
20090082835 | Apparatus and Methods For Charging An Implanted Medical Device Power Source - Apparatus and methods for charging an implanted medical device. | 03-26-2009 |
20090112291 | CLOSED LOOP LONG RANGE RECHARGING - A charging system for an implantable medical device having a secondary coil. The charging system includes an external power source having at least one primary coil, a modulation, circuit operatively coupled to the primary coil and capable of driving it in a manner characterized by a charging parameter, and a sensor in communication with the modulation circuit and capable of sensing a condition indicating a need to adjust the charging parameter during a charging process. The parameter may be varied so that data sensed by the sensor meets a threshold requirement, which may be based on a patient preference, a government regulation, a recommendation promulgated by a health authority and/or a requirement associated with another device carried by the patient. In one embodiment, the regulation dictates maximum magnetic field exposure, and a field limiting circuit is employed to adjust the charging process. | 04-30-2009 |
20090132009 | DETERMINATION OF STIMULATION OUTPUT CAPABILITIES THROUGHOUT POWER SOURCE VOLTAGE RANGE - Techniques for determining whether a medical device will be able to deliver stimulation according to a particular program throughout a voltage range of a power source of the medical device are described. According to some examples, the medical device simulates a power source voltage level lower than a present voltage level of the power source, and delivers stimulation according to the program while simulating the lower power source voltage level. Whether medical device will be able to deliver stimulation according to the program when the power source is actually at the lower voltage level is determined based on an electrical parameter measured during the delivery of stimulation while simulating the lower voltage level. The simulation and determination for a program may be performed, as an example, when the program is created or modified. | 05-21-2009 |
20090157147 | Implantable Transponder Systems and Methods - A method and system for providing electrical stimulation to tissue includes implanting one or more battery-free microtransponders having spiral antennas into tissue. Energy is provided wirelessly to the plurality of microtransponders. Tissue is stimulated using the energy. | 06-18-2009 |
20090157148 | Spacers For Use With Transcutaneous Energy Transfer System - A transcutaneous energy transfer system, method and kit for an implantable medical device having componentry for providing a therapeutic output and a secondary coil operatively coupled to the componentry and is adapted to be implanted at a location in a patient. An external power source has a primary coil contained in a housing. The external power source is capable of providing energy to the implantable medical device when the primary coil of the external power source is placed in proximity of the secondary coil of the implantable medical device. A holder is adapted to be externally positioned with respect to the patient at a spot in proximity of the location of the implantable medical device and secured at the location. A spacer, removably coupled to the holder, has an opening receiving the protrusion. A plurality of spacers can be used. The number is spacers is selectable based on the size of the protrusion. | 06-18-2009 |
20090192575 | THERMAL MANAGEMENT OF IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICES - Systems and techniques for thermal management of implantable medical devices. In one aspect an implantable device includes an active component configured to perform medical activities, a charging component configured to convert energy from outside a body in which the implantable device is implanted into potential energy, and a thermal barrier between the charging component and the active portion. The thermal barrier thermally isolates the charging component from the active portion so that thermal resistance between the charging component and the active component is above the thermal resistance between the charging component and the body. | 07-30-2009 |
20090204178 | POWERING IMPLANTABLE RESTRICTION SYSTEMS USING LIGHT - Various powering devices are provided for transferring and/or generating energy from numerous sources to a communicating member implanted in a patient. The energy transferred to or generated by the communicating member can be used to provide power to an implantable restriction system configured to form a restriction in a pathway. | 08-13-2009 |
20090204179 | POWERING IMPLANTABLE RESTRICTION SYSTEMS USING TEMPERATURE - Various powering devices are provided for transferring and/or generating energy from numerous sources to a communicating member implanted in a patient. The energy transferred to or generated by the communicating member can be used to provide power to an implantable restriction system configured to form a restriction in a pathway. | 08-13-2009 |
20090204180 | System for implanting a microstimulator - A system for implanting a microstimulator uses an insulated electrical conductor connected to an electrical stimulator and fed through a metal hypodermic needle to locate the best position for stimulation, followed by the insertion of a metal encased micro stimulator. | 08-13-2009 |
20090210035 | System for powering medical implants - A medical implant is powered by inductive coupling to a transmitter utilizing a large number of frequencies in order to minimize the amount of electromagnetic interference at any single frequency. The frequencies are generated by a resonant circuit rapidly tunable by changing the inductance. | 08-20-2009 |
20090222066 | PRINTED CIRCUIT BOARD COMMUNICATION COIL FOR USE IN AN IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE SYSTEM - Disclosed is an improved external controller useable in an implantable medical device system. The communication coil in the external controller is formed in a printed circuit board (PCB), i.e., by using the various tracing layers and vias of the PCB. As illustrated, the PCB coil is formed at a plurality of trace layers in the PCB, and comprises a plurality of turns at some or all of the layers. The communication coil may wrap around the other circuitry used in the external controller, which circuitry may be mounted to the front and/or back of the PCB. The geometry of the coil is specially tailored to maximize its inductance, and hence maximize its ability to communicate in the sub-4 MHz range which is not significantly attenuated by the human body. | 09-03-2009 |
20090264965 | OPTIMIZING SIZE OF IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICES BY ISOLATING THE POWER SOURCE - A wireless cardiac stimulation device comprising an implantable transmitter module housing a transmitter and a separately implantable battery module housing a battery for powering the transmitter and other device electronics via a subcutaneously routable electrical cable connecting the module is disclosed. The transmitter module contains a transmitter enclosure which comprises one or more ultrasound transducers. Having separate transmitter and battery modules allows implantation of the transmitter module closer to the target receiver implanted in tissue. A discrete battery module also enables easy replacement of the battery without disturbing the transmitter, which is highly desirable. | 10-22-2009 |
20090264966 | Device for Inductive Charging of Implanted Electronic Devices - Devices suitable for charging implanted electronic devices are provided. A device suitable for charging one or more implanted electronic devices, specifically implanted ophthalmic devices, may include a wearable frame, one or more conductive coils, and a power source to provide a current to the conductive coil. When placed in proximity to an implanted device having a second conductive coil, the current in the conductive coil causes an induced current in the second conductive coil, which may be used to power the implanted electronic device. | 10-22-2009 |
20090270951 | RECHARGE SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DEEP OR ANGLED DEVICES - Techniques are disclosed for recharging an Implantable Medical Device (IMD). In one embodiment, a first external coil is positioned on one side of a patient's body, such as on a front side of the torso in proximity to the IMD. A second external coil is positioned on an opposite side of the patient's body, such as on the back of the torso. A recharging device generates a current in each of the coils, inductively coupling the first and the second coils to the secondary recharge coil of the IMD. According to another aspect, each of the two external coils may wrap around a portion of the patient's body, such as the torso or head, and are positioned such that the IMD lies between the coils. According to this aspect, current generated in the coils inductively couples to a second recharge coil that is angled within the patient's body. | 10-29-2009 |
20090276014 | EXTERNAL POWER SOURCE, SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PREDICTING HEAT LOSS OF IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE DURING INDUCTIVE RECHARGING BY EXTERNAL PRIMARY COIL - External power source, system for controlling and method for predicting heat loss of implantable medical device during inductive recharging by an external primary coil. A primary coil inductively couples energy to a secondary coil when energized and placed in proximity of the secondary coil. Control circuitry, operatively coupled to said primary coil, determines the energy absorbed in said tissue based on a total applied power by said external power source, power lost in said electronic circuitry, power lost in said electronic circuitry, power lost in said primary coil and power applied to said rechargeable power source and controlling said total applied power based upon said energy absorbed in said tissue. | 11-05-2009 |
20090276015 | TIME TO NEXT RECHARGE SESSION FEEDBACK WHILE RECHARGING AN IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE, SYSTEM AND METHOD THEREFORE - A system and method for determining, during a recharge session, an amount of time until a subsequent recharge session is required to charge a rechargeable power source of an implantable medical device. A model allows a determination of the time until recharge without suspending charging during the recharge session by basing the determination on an initial measured battery voltage and a present current into the rechargeable power source. Alternatively, charging is suspended during the recharge session, and voltage measurements are taken, after which time charging is resumed, without patient input or suspending the recharge session. | 11-05-2009 |
20090276016 | CONCENTRIC PRIMARY COILS FOR INDUCTIVELY CHARGING AN IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE, EXTERNAL POWER SOURCE AND METHOD - An external antenna with a plurality of concentric primary coils recharges an implantable medical device with a secondary coil when the primary coils are placed in proximity of the secondary coil. Selection circuitry determines which of the plurality of concentric primary coils has the most efficient coupling with the secondary coil and drive circuitry drives the selected primary coil with an oscillating current. During a recharge session, selection circuitry periodically checks at least some of the primary coils to determine whether the primary coil with the most efficient connection has changed. An antenna housing may hold the primary coils in a rigid planar relationship with each other or the primary coils may shift with respect to each other, forming a cup-shape around a bulge in the skin created by the implantable medical device. | 11-05-2009 |
20090281600 | IMPLANTABLE BIOMEDICAL DEVICE INCLUDING AN ELECTRICAL ENERGY GENERATOR - Disclosed is an implantable biomedical device that incorporates an electrical energy generator. The electrical energy generator harvests kinetic energy from voluntary motor activity of a human or animal and converts the kinetic energy to usable electrical energy which is used to power the biomedical device. In certain embodiments, the electrical energy generator includes a housing, an electrical conductor, an electromagnetically active mass, springs connecting the mass to the housing, and electrically circuitry to generate a usable source of electrical power for the biomedical device. | 11-12-2009 |
20090281601 | EXTERNAL PRESENTATION OF ELECTRICAL STIMULATION PARAMETERS - The invention is directed to a trial stimulation system and, more particularly, an indicator device within the trial stimulation system that measures and indicates energy amplitude levels for electrical stimulation therapy delivered to a patient. Specifically, the indicator device simultaneously indicates energy amplitude levels, such as electrical voltage, current, power, and electrical charge, as well as the polarity for each electrode in real-time without affecting the therapy delivered to the patient. For example, the indicator device may activate a number of lights in an array of lights in proportion to the measured energy amplitude level for each electrode and may activate a green LED or a red LED when a corresponding electrodes acts as a source or sink, respectively. In this manner, the indicator device allows a clinician to visualize the electrical fields produced by each electrode and, therefore, may assist stimulation steering, trouble shooting, and lead placement. | 11-12-2009 |
20090292341 | Method for Controlling Telemetry in an Implantable Medical Device Based on Power Source Capacity - An implantable microstimulator configured for implantation beneath a patient's skin for tissue stimulation to prevent and/or treat various disorders, uses a self-contained power source. Periodic or occasional replenishment of the power source is accomplished, for example, by inductive coupling with an external device. A bidirectional telemetry link allows the microstimulator to provide information regarding the system's status, including the power source's charge level, and stimulation parameter states. Processing circuitry automatically controls the applied stimulation pulses to match a set of programmed stimulation parameters established for a particular patient. The microstimulator preferably has a cylindrical hermetically sealed case having a length no greater than about 27 mm and a diameter no greater than about 3.3 mm. A reference electrode is located on one end of the case and an active electrode is located on the other end. The case is externally coated on selected areas with conductive and non-conductive materials. | 11-26-2009 |
20090319006 | IMPLANTABLE TRANSDUCER DEVICES - Receiver-stimulators comprise a nearly isotropic transducer assembly, demodulator circuitry, and at least two tissue contacting electrodes. Use of near isotropic transducers allows the devices to be implanted with less concern regarding the orientation relative to an acoustic energy source. Transducers or transducer elements having relatively small sizes, typically less than ½ the wavelength of the acoustic source, enhance isotropy. The use of single crystal piezoelectric materials enhance sensitivity. | 12-24-2009 |
20090326611 | Method of Powering Implanted Devices by Direct Transfer of Electrical Energy - In order to transfer electrical energy to an implemented medical device ( | 12-31-2009 |
20100010582 | MEDICAL SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR SETTING PROGRAMMABLE HEAT LIMITS - An external charger transmits energy to charge an implanted medical device. A sensor measures a parameter that is correlated to a temperature that is adjacent to the external charger. This parameter is indicative of the temperature or an amount of heat that is generated during the charging of the implanted medical device by the external charger. The temperature is compared to a user programmable temperature threshold and based on the comparison, the charge rate or output power of the external charger or input power of the implanted medical device is adjusted to reduce the heat generated by the charging. The user programmable temperature threshold is set to an optimum charge rate whereby the temperature that is generated during charging of the implanted medical device by the external charger feels comfortable to the user. | 01-14-2010 |
20100023092 | ENERGY TRANSFER AMPLIFICATION FOR INTRABODY DEVICES - Apparatus for driving current in a power circuit of a medical device inserted into a body of a subject includes a power transmitter, which is adapted to generate, in a vicinity of the body, an electromagnetic field having a predetermined frequency capable of inductively driving the current in the power circuit. A passive energy transfer amplifier, having a resonant response at the frequency of the electromagnetic field is placed in proximity to the medical device so as to enhance the current driven in the power circuit by the electromagnetic field. | 01-28-2010 |
20100023093 | ENERGY TRANSFER AMPLIFICATION FOR INTRABODY DEVICES - Apparatus for driving current in a power circuit of a medical device inserted into a body of a subject includes a power transmitter, which is adapted to generate, in a vicinity of the body, an electromagnetic field having a predetermined frequency capable of inductively driving the current in the power circuit. A passive energy transfer amplifier, having a resonant response at the frequency of the electromagnetic field is placed in proximity to the medical device so as to enhance the current driven in the power circuit by the electromagnetic field. | 01-28-2010 |
20100070003 | Systems configured to power at least one device disposed in a living subject, and related apparatuses and methods - Embodiments disclosed herein are directed to systems configured to power at least one device disposed in a living subject, apparatuses configured to be disposed in a living subject and export power stored in an energy-storage device, and related methods of powering at least one device disposed in the living subject. | 03-18-2010 |
20100076523 | METHOD OF PREVENTING OVER-DISCHARGE OF BATTERY - A medical device includes a rechargeable lithium-ion battery for providing power to the medical device. The lithium-ion battery includes a positive electrode including a current collector and a first active material, a negative electrode including a current collector and a second active material, and an auxiliary electrode including a current collector and a third active material. The auxiliary electrode is configured for selective electrical connection to one of the positive electrode and the negative electrode. The first active material, second active material, and third active material are configured to allow doping and undoping of lithium ions. The third active material exhibits charging and discharging capacity below a corrosion potential of the current collector of the negative electrode and above a decomposition potential of the first active material. | 03-25-2010 |
20100076524 | INDUCTIVELY RECHARGEABLE EXTERNAL ENERGY SOURCE, CHARGER, SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR A TRANSCUTANEOUS INDUCTIVE CHARGER FOR AN IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE - A mechanism for transferring energy from an external power source to an implantable medical device is disclosed. An antenna is positioned in proximity of the implantable medical device. The position of a core of the antenna is adjusted relative to the implantable medical device while the antenna is maintained substantially stationary. A frequency of transmission of a power source is adjusted, and the antenna is driven at the adjusted frequency to transfer energy transcutaneously to the implantable medical device. In one embodiment, the frequency of transmission is selected based on an amplitude of a signal in the antenna. | 03-25-2010 |
20100100158 | Percutaneous electrode assemblies, systems, and methods for providing highly selective functional or therapeutic neuromuscular stimulation - Percutaneous electrode assemblies, systems, and methods make possible the providing of short-term therapy or diagnostic testing by providing electrical connections between muscles or nerves inside the body and stimulus generators or recording instruments carried outside the body. The percutaneous electrodes include a flexible body having an electrically conductive region, a tissue penetrating region, and a percutaneous lead electrically coupled to the electrically conductive region. An anchoring element is positioned on the flexible body to resist movement of the electrically conductive region within tissue. An introducer is sized and configured to receive the flexible body and shield the anchoring element from contact with tissue while the electrically conductive region is placed to a desired position within tissue, and accommodates advancement of the anchoring element beyond the interior lumen for contact with tissue to resist movement of the electrically conductive region placed in the desired position. | 04-22-2010 |
20100106225 | Transcutaneous Power And/Or Data Transceiver - A device for communicating electric signals across the skin layer ( | 04-29-2010 |
20100114252 | DETERMINATION OF STIMULATION OUTPUT CAPABILITIES THROUGHOUT POWER SOURCE VOLTAGE RANGE - Techniques for determining whether a medical device will be able to deliver stimulation according to a particular program throughout a useable voltage range of a power source of the medical device are described. According to some examples, the medical device charges a charge pump to a level sufficient to provide a stimulation output according to a stimulation program, determines a length of time that the charge pump charges at the present power source voltage level, and determines a time between stimulation pulses of the stimulation program. Whether the medical device will be able to deliver stimulation according to the program when the power source is at a power source voltage level lower than the present voltage level is determined based on the length of time the charge pump charges at the present voltage level of the power source and the time between stimulation pulses. | 05-06-2010 |
20100114253 | PASSIVE CHARGE OF IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE UTILIZING EXTERNAL POWER SOURCE AND METHOD - External power source for an implantable medical device implanted in a patient, the implantable medical device having a secondary coil operatively coupled to therapeutic componentry and method therefore. A modulation circuit is operatively coupled to a power source. A plurality of primary coils are operatively coupled to the modulation circuitry and physically associated with an article into which the patient may come into proximity. The modulation circuit drives at least one of the plurality of primary coils. A sensor is coupled to modulation circuit and is adapted to sense proximity of a component related to the implantable medical device. The modulation circuit commences operation to drive at least one of the plurality of primary coils when the sensor senses proximity with the component related to the implantable medical device. | 05-06-2010 |
20100137948 | EXTERNAL CHARGER WITH ADJUSTABLE ALIGNMENT INDICATOR - Electrical energy is transcutaneously transmitted at a plurality of different frequencies to an implanted medical device. The magnitude of the transmitted electrical energy respectively measured at the plurality of frequencies. One of the frequencies is selected based on the measured magnitude of the electrical energy (e.g., the frequency at which the measured magnitude of the electrical energy is the greatest). A depth level at which the medical device is implanted within the patient is determined based on the selected frequency. For example, the depth level may be determined to be relatively shallow if the selected frequency is relatively high, and relatively deep if the selected frequency is relative low. A charge strength threshold at which a charge strength indicator generates a user-discernible signal can then be set based on the determined depth level. | 06-03-2010 |
20100145413 | METHODS AND DEVICES FOR TREATING NEUROPATHY AND LOSS OF PROTECTIVE SENSATION - Certain embodiments described herein are directed to methods for treating loss of protective sensation. In certain embodiments, loss of protective sensation may be restored by application of an effective amount of a pulsed current at, for example, an effective pulse frequency. Devices and systems designed to treat loss of protective sensation are also described. | 06-10-2010 |
20100211134 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR SUPPLYING ENERGY TO A MEDICAL DEVICE - In a method and apparatus for controlling transmission of wireless energy to a medical device ( | 08-19-2010 |
20100217351 | APPARATUS FOR STIMULATING LIVING BODY - Disclosed is an apparatus for stimulating living body including a light source unit which irradiates an optical signal for generating an electrical signal; a photovoltaic cell unit which generates an electrical signal using a received optical signal; and an electrode unit which stimulates living body using the electrical signal, wherein the photovoltaic cell unit and the electrode unit are implanted in the living body. The apparatus for stimulating living body may be manufactured in a flexible form, so that it may extend the range of choice for site to be implanted for the apparatus. Further, the adoption of the photovoltaic cell unit avoids the need of surgical operation for the change of battery. | 08-26-2010 |
20100217352 | ENERGY TRANSFER CONTROL ADAPTED TO A MEDICAL DEVICE SYSTEM - The disclosed invention varies the width of the energy pulses with constant frequency and constant amplitude to regulate the amount of energy transferred from an energy transmitting device placed outside a patient to an energy receiver inside the patient. The pulse width is achieved with a modulation technique, PWMT, to control the amount of energy transferred from the external energy transmitting coil in the system to the implanted receiver. The PWMT is used to digitally vary the amount of power from the power amplifier that drives the transmitting coil. Compared to previous analog systems a PWM system is a great deal more efficient and can easily be controlled from a digital domain system such as a microprocessor. | 08-26-2010 |
20100217353 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR CONTROLLING SUPPLY OF ENERGY TO AN IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE - A method and system for supplying energy to an electrically operable, medical device ( | 08-26-2010 |
20100217354 | Active Medical Implant - An active medical implant, in particular a medical electronic device having a power supply which has a mechanical vibrator or rotor which is induced to vibrate and/or rotate by movements of the patient wearing the implant and/or external excitation and is energetically connected to an electronic consumer and/or an energy storage mechanism, such that a portion of the kinetic energy generated by the vibration and/or rotation is input into the consumer and/or energy storage mechanism. | 08-26-2010 |
20100222848 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR SUPPLYING ENERGY TO A MEDICAL DEVICE - In a method and apparatus for supplying wireless energy to a medical device ( | 09-02-2010 |
20100222849 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR SUPPLYING ENERGY TO A MEDICAL DEVICE - In a method and apparatus for supplying wireless energy to a medical device ( | 09-02-2010 |
20100234921 | Battery recharge management for implantable medical device - An implantable medical device having an implantable power source such as a rechargeable lithium ion battery. The implantable medical device includes a recharge module that regulates the recharging process of the implantable power source using closed-loop feedback control. The recharge module includes a recharge regulator, a recharge measurement device monitoring at least one recharge parameter, and a recharge regulation control unit for regulating the recharge energy delivered to the power source in response to the recharge measurement device. The recharge module adjusts the energy provided to the power source to ensure that the power source is being recharged under safe levels. | 09-16-2010 |
20100234922 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR SUPPLYING ENERGY TO A MEDICAL DEVICE - In a method and apparatus for supplying wireless energy to a medical device ( | 09-16-2010 |
20100234923 | APPARATUS, SYSTEM, AND METHOD FOR TRANSCUTANEOUSLY TRANSFERRING ENERGY - An apparatus for transcutaneously transferring an amount of energy to an implantable orthopaedic device includes a primary coil. The primary coil has a resonant frequency matched to a resonant frequency of a secondary coil, which may form part of the implantable orthopaedic device. The primary coil may have an aperture configured to receive a portion of a patient's body or may include a substantially “C”-shaped core. A power circuit may be coupled with the primary coil to provide power to the coil. The apparatus may also include a wireless receiver, a measuring device, and/or a display. | 09-16-2010 |
20100241194 | ACCESSORY APPARATUS FOR IMPROVED RECHARGING OF IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE - An apparatus configured to be placed about an implantable medical device having a face with a geometric center offset from a center of a recharge coil of the device includes first and second opposing major exterior surfaces, and a continuous exterior side surface joining the first and second opposing major exterior surfaces. A cavity is defined between, and an opening is formed by, the first and second major surfaces and the continuous side surface. The opening is in communication with the cavity and is configured to allow the device to access the cavity. An asymmetric region, adjacent to the cavity, is formed between a portion of the first and second major surfaces and the continuous side surface. The asymmetric region is configured to shift the geometric center of the combined apparatus and device, when the device is received in the cavity, towards the center of the recharge coil. | 09-23-2010 |
20100249888 | Intravascular implant anchors having remote communication and/or battery recharging capabilities - A medical implant system comprises an implant proportioned for implantation within a blood vessel, a lead coupled to the implant, and an anchor coupled to the lead, the anchor configurable in a radially compressed position so as to be positioned in the blood vessel, and a radially expanded position for engagement with the wall of blood vessel. The anchor functions as an antenna for telemetric communication with an extracorporeal device and/or as a receiver for inductive recharging of secondary cells in the implant using an extracorporeal charging device. | 09-30-2010 |
20100268305 | ALIGNMENT INDICATION FOR TRANSCUTANEOUS ENERGY TRANSFER - System for transcutaneous energy transfer. An implantable medical device, adapted to be implanted in a patient, has componentry for providing a therapeutic output. The implantable medical device has an internal power source and a secondary coil operatively coupled to the internal power source. An external power source, having a primary coil, provides energy to the implantable medical device when the primary coil of the external power source is placed in proximity of the secondary coil of the implantable medical device and thereby generates a current in the internal power source. An alignment indicator reports the alignment as a function of the current generated in the internal power source with a predetermined value associated with an expected alignment between the primary coil and secondary coil. | 10-21-2010 |
20100274325 | IMPLANTABLE MICROSTIMULATOR HAVING A BATTERY UNIT AND METHODS OF USE THEREFOR - An implantable microstimulator arrangement includes at least one implantable microstimulator unit; an implantable battery unit separate from the implantable microstimulator unit(s); and at least one lead coupling the microstimulator unit(s) to the battery unit. The microstimulator unit(s) are operated to treat body tissue. | 10-28-2010 |
20100305662 | Techniques for Controlling Charging of Batteries in an External Charger and an Implantable Medical Device - Disclosed are charging algorithms implementable in an external charger for controlling the charging of both an external battery in the external charger and an implant battery in an implantable medical device. Because full-powered simultaneous charging of both batteries can generate excessive heat in the external charger, the various charging algorithms are designed to ensure that both batteries are ultimately charged, but in a manner considerate of heat generation. In some embodiments, the charging algorithms prevent simultaneous charging of both batteries by arbitrating which battery is given charging precedence at a given point in time. In other embodiments, the charging algorithms allow for simultaneous charging of both batteries, but with at least one of the batteries being only weakly charged at low power levels. In other embodiments, the temperature generated in the external charger is monitored and used to control the charging algorithm. In these embodiments, if a safe temperature is exceeded, then the charging algorithms change to new temperature-reducing schemes which still allow for both batteries to be ultimately charged. | 12-02-2010 |
20100305663 | IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE SYSTEM HAVING SHORT RANGE COMMUNICATION LINK BETWEEN AN EXTERNAL CONTROLLER AND AN EXTERNAL CHARGER - Disclosed is an improved system for providing charging information during the powering of a medical implantable device by an external changer. In the disclosed system, relevant charging information originates in the external charger, or is transmitted to the external charger from the implant during charging. The charging information is transferred from the external charger to an external controller using a short range communication link that is not orientation dependent (i.e., omni-directional), such as one employing a Bluetooth™ or Zibgee™ protocol for example. Once received, the external controller can convey the charging information to the patient or clinician, such as by displaying the charging information on the graphical user interface of the external controller. Additionally, the short range communication link between the external controller and the external charger allows the external charger to be controlled by the external controller, which adds system flexibility and convenience. | 12-02-2010 |
20100312310 | POWER LINK FOR IMPLANTABLE DEVICES - A power transfer system for an implanted device, such as an implanted medical device. The implanted device and a power transfer device each include a coil with a magnetically permeable core, so that operatively the coils are magnetically coupled, so as to improve the efficiency of power transfer. The coil resides in an electrically conductive implant case | 12-09-2010 |
20100331917 | MOLDABLE CHARGER WITH SUPPORT MEMBERS FOR CHARGING AN IMPLANTABLE PULSE GENERATOR - Electrical energy is transcutaneously transmitted from an external charger to an implanted medical device. The external charger includes a charging head that is selectively shaped to conform to the surface of a patient to enhance charge efficiency and patient comfort. The charging head has a plurality of malleable support members extending through the charging head for affixing the flexible charging head in the selected shape, while the flexible charging head conforms to the surface of the patient. The charging head may also include one or more sensors for determining the shape of a charging coil in the charging head, which cause the charge of the coil to be adjusted based on the coil shape. | 12-30-2010 |
20100331918 | MOLDABLE CHARGER WITH CURABLE MATERIAL FOR CHARGING AN IMPLANTABLE PULSE GENERATOR - Electrical energy is transcutaneously transmitted from an external charger to an implanted medical device. The external charger includes a charging head comprising a flexible material that is selectively shaped to conform to the surface of a patient to enhance charge efficiency and patient comfort. The flexible material is curable to become inflexible and embody a fixed shape and may comprise, for example, a thermoplastic for being re-shaped and re-cured multiple times, or a thermoset plastic that maintains a permanent shape and cannot be re-cured to form another shape. The charging head may also include one or more sensors for determining the shape of a charging coil in the charging head, which cause the charge of the coil to be adjusted based on the coil shape. | 12-30-2010 |
20100331919 | MOLDABLE CHARGER HAVING HINGED SECTIONS FOR CHARGING AN IMPLANTABLE PULSE GENERATOR - Electrical energy is transcutaneously transmitted from an external charger to an implanted medical device. The external charger includes a charging head comprising a plurality of pivotable hinged sections for selectively shaping the charging head to conform to a surface of a patient. The external charger further includes an alternating current (AC) charging coil housed in the charging head for transcutaneously transmitting electrical energy to the implanted medical device. The charging head may also include one or more sensors for determining the shape of a charging coil in the charging head, which cause the charge of the coil to be adjusted based on the coil shape. | 12-30-2010 |
20100331920 | MOLDABLE CHARGER WITH SHAPE-SENSING MEANS FOR AN IMPLANTABLE PULSE GENERATOR - Electrical energy is transcutaneously transmitted from an external charger to an implanted medical device. The external charger includes a charging head that is selectively shapeable to conform to the surface of a patient to enhance charge efficiency and patient comfort. An alternating current charging coil is housed in the charging head and configured for transcutaneously transmitting electrical energy to the implanted medical device. The shape of the coil is changeable as the charging head is shaped, and at least one sensor determines changes in the shape of the charging coil and causes the charge of the coil to be adjusted based on the coil shape. | 12-30-2010 |
20110004278 | External Charger for a Medical Implantable Device Using Field Sensing Coils to Improve Coupling - By incorporating magnetic field sensing coils in an external charger, it is possible to determine the position of an implantable device by sensing the reflected magnetic field from the implant. In one embodiment, two or more field sensing coils are arranged to sense the reflected magnetic field. By comparing the relative reflected magnetic field strengths of the sensing coils, the position of the implant relative to the external charger can be determined. Audio and/or visual feedback can then be communicated to the patient to allow the patient to improve the alignment of the charger. | 01-06-2011 |
20110022124 | MULTIPLEXED MULTI-ELECTRODE NEUROSTIMULATION DEVICES - Implantable stimulation devices are provided. Aspects of the devices include a multiplexed multi-electrode component configured for neural stimulation. The multiplexed multi-electrode component includes two or more individually addressable satellite electrode structures electrically coupled to a common conductor. The satellite structures include a hermetically sealed integrated circuit controller operatively coupled to one or more electrodes. Also provided are systems that include the devices of the invention, as well as methods of using the systems and devices in a variety of different applications. | 01-27-2011 |
20110022125 | INDUCTIVELY RECHARGEABLE EXTERNAL ENERGY SOURCE, CHARGER, SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR A TRANSCUTANEOUS INDUCTIVE CHARGER FOR AN IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE - Techniques for transcutaneous transferral of energy to an implantable medical device are disclosed. An embodiment includes a system comprising an implantable medical device having a secondary coil. An external device is provided to transcutaneously transfer energy to the secondary coil. The external device comprises a housing having a side adapted to be positioned in proximity to the secondary coil when the external device is transferring energy to the secondary coil. A temperature sensor is coupled to the side to determine a temperature indicative of heat to which the patient is being exposed during the transfer of energy. A control circuit is adapted to control the transfer of energy to the secondary coil based on the temperature. For instance, the control circuit may limit transfer of energy by controlling times at which transfer of energy occurs or controlling an amplitude of a signal within the external device. | 01-27-2011 |
20110022126 | Trigeminal Nerve Stimulation Systems and Methods of Use - The present invention discloses systems and methods for stimulation of the trigeminal nerve via indirect application of micro-current from a self-contained frequency/static-charged device. The device is treated with a process that allows it to store and dispense a low-level charge. The device can be directly or indirectly infused with a frequency from an external charging system; embedded with a charge-sustaining supplement and infused with a frequency that can be transferred from an external charging system, or embedded with a frequency generating and sustaining component, without infusion from an external charging system. The device operates independently once infused or embedded with operational frequency. The device is positioned near one or more trigeminal access point such as intra-oral, temple, or neck. The device may be used to increase strength, flexibility, balance, calm heart rate, and help control pain. Usage encourages neural plasticity, establishing sustainable new connections between nerve cells. | 01-27-2011 |
20110046699 | SELF-REGULATING TRANSCUTANEOUS ENERGY TRANSFER - A rechargeable battery system and method are disclosed, in which an implantable medical device (IMD) regulates its transfer of energy from a separate charger unit. For recharging, a charger unit is brought into proximity to the implanted device. An oscillating current is generated in a primary coil, located in the charger. By inductive coupling through an oscillating magnetic field, an alternating current is generated in a secondary coil, which is implanted in or near the implanted device. The alternating current then passes through a half-wave or full-wave rectifier to form a one-sided current, then passes through a regulator to form an essentially direct current, which is in turn directed to the rechargeable battery in the implanted device. The secondary coil has a controllable damped resonant frequency, which can be dynamically tuned away from the driving frequency of the primary coil by a variable resistor and/or by varying a duty cycle of a rapidly switched electrical element. If a control loop in the implant senses that more power is being received at the second coil than is actually being used to recharge the battery, the control loop temporarily changes the variable resistance. When this happens, the resonant frequency of the secondary coil is detuned slightly away from the driving frequency, so that less of the incoming power is absorbed by the secondary coil. Alternatively, the secondary coil may be temporarily short-circuited. With less or no excess power entering the circuitry of the implant, the problem of overheating is mitigated. | 02-24-2011 |
20110071597 | External Charger Usable with an Implantable Medical Device Having a Programmable or Time-Varying Temperature Set Point - An improved external charger for charging the battery within or providing power to an implantable medical device is disclosed. The improved external charger includes circuitry for detecting the temperature of the external charger and for controlling charging to prevent exceeding a maximum temperature. The external charger in some embodiments includes a user interface for allowing a patient to set the external charger's maximum temperature. The user interface can be used to select either constant maximum temperatures, or can allow the user to choose from a number of stored charging programs, which programs can control the maximum temperature to vary over time. Alternatively, a charging program in the external charger can vary the maximum temperature set point automatically. By controlling the maximum temperature of the external charger during charging in these manners, the time needed to charge can be minimized while still ensuring a temperature that is comfortable for that patient. | 03-24-2011 |
20110077718 | ELECTROMAGNETIC POWER BOOSTER FOR BIO-MEDICAL UNITS - An on-body power booster module includes an electromagnetic power harvesting unit, a continuous wave generator, and a transmitter module. The electromagnetic power harvesting unit is operably coupled to convert magnetic field energy into a voltage. The continuous wave generator is powered by the voltage and is operably coupled to generate a continuous wave signal. The transmitter module is powered by the voltage and is operably coupled to wirelessly transmit the continuous wave signal as wireless power to an implanted bio-medical unit. | 03-31-2011 |
20110077719 | ELECTROMAGNETIC POWER BIO-MEDICAL UNIT - A bio-medical unit includes a power harvesting module, a processing module, memory, and one or more functional modules. The power harvesting module is operable to receive magnetic field energy and convert the magnetic field energy into a supply voltage. The power harvesting module powers the processing module, memory, and the one or more functional modules via the supply voltage. | 03-31-2011 |
20110077720 | BATTERY RECHARGE MANAGEMENT FOR IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE - An implantable medical device having an implantable power source such as a rechargeable lithium ion battery. The implantable medical device includes a recharge module that regulates the recharging process of the implantable power source using closed-loop feedback control. The recharge module includes a recharge regulator, a recharge measurement device monitoring at least one recharge parameter, and a recharge regulation control unit for regulating the recharge energy delivered to the power source in response to the recharge measurement device. The recharge module adjusts the energy provided to the power source to ensure that the power source is being recharged under safe levels. | 03-31-2011 |
20110087307 | Efficient External Charger for an Implantable Medical Device Optimized for Fast Charging and Constrained by an Implant Power Dissipation Limit - An improved external charger for a battery in an implantable medical device (implant), and technique for charging the battery using such improved external charger, is disclosed. In one example, simulation data is used to model the power dissipation of the charging circuitry in the implant at varying levels of implant power. A power dissipation limit is chosen to constrain the charging circuitry from producing an inordinate amount of heat to the tissue surrounding the implant, and duty cycles are determined for the various levels of input intensities to ensure that the power limit is not exceeded. A maximum simulated average battery current determines the optimal (i.e., quickest) battery charging current, and at least an optimal value for a parameter indicative of that current, for example, the voltage across the battery charging circuitry, is determined and stored in the external charger. During charging, the actual value for that parameter is reported from the implant to the external charger, which in turn adjusts the intensity and/or duty cycle of the magnetic charging field consistent with the simulation to ensure that charging is as fast as possible, while still not exceeding the power dissipation limit. | 04-14-2011 |
20110093048 | External Charger for a Medical Implantable Device Using Field Inducing Coils to Improve Coupling - By incorporating magnetic field-inducing position determination coils (PDCs) in an external charger, it is possible to determine the position of an implantable device by actively inducing magnetic fields using the PDCs and sensing the reflected magnetic field from the implant. In one embodiment, the PDCs are driven by an AC power source with a frequency equal to the charging coil. In another embodiment, the PDCs are driven by an AC power source at a frequency different from that of the charging coil. By comparing the relative reflected magnetic field strengths at each of the PDCs, the position of the implant relative to the external charger can be determined. Audio and/or visual feedback can then be communicated to the patient to allow the patient to improve the alignment of the charger. | 04-21-2011 |
20110125222 | Transdermal Photonic Energy Transmission Devices and Methods - An output assembly comprises at least one light detector configured for placement under skin near a temporal bone so as to couple with a behind the ear unit coupled with the Pinna. The area of the at least one detector may comprise an area to couple with a light source. As the area of the detector under the skin can be large the at least one detector under the skin can couple efficiently with a light source. An input transducer assembly can be configured to transmit light energy to the output assembly with the multiplexed optical signal through the skin tissue. The multiplexed optical signal may comprise a pulse width modulated signal so as to decrease the effect of non-linearities of the light source and light detector and provide quality sound to the user. | 05-26-2011 |
20110137380 | FLEXIBLE ANTENNA MODULE FOR WIRELESS ENERGY TRANSMISSION - This invention provides a flexible antenna module for wireless energy transmission, which uses an antenna size controlling device to adjust the antenna's size to conform a living body's outer portion wearing the flexible annular antenna. An antenna energy transmission control module is provided to adjust the power for driving the flexible annular antenna according to the deformation of the flexible annular antenna. This invention can adjust both the antenna size to fit the individual and the power for driving the antenna. The individual can use the present antenna module under a comfortable, safe and reliable circumstance. | 06-09-2011 |
20110166630 | HOLSTER FOR CHARGING PECTORALLY IMPLANTED MEDICAL DEVICES - A system for recharging an implantable medical device. The system comprises a holster that may be donned in multiple respective configurations for charging implanted medical devices implanted at various locations within the patient's body. The system may further comprise a charging unit having an antenna on the patient's right side, a second configuration for charging a pectorally implanted medical device on the patient's left side, or a third configuration for use as a waist belt for charging a pectorally implanted medical device on either side of the patient. | 07-07-2011 |
20110172742 | SMART CHARGER ALIGNMENT INDICATOR - Electrical energy is transmitted to charge the implanted medical device, and an electrical parameter (e.g., a steady-state voltage) indicating a rate at which the implanted medical device is charged by the electrical energy is detected. A threshold (e.g., by modifying a stored threshold value) at which the charge strength indicator generates a user-discernible signal is adjusted based on the detected electrical parameter. | 07-14-2011 |
20110190853 | IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICES AND SYSTEMS HAVING POWER MANAGEMENT FOR RECHARGE SESSIONS - Implantable devices and related systems utilize power management features in conjunction with a recharge circuit that includes a coil and capacitance. The reactance such as the capacitance and/or inductance may be variable such that in the event of an overcharge condition, the reactance may be varied to change the resonant frequency of the circuit of the coil from the recharge frequency to another frequency to reduce the power being received. Other power management features may additionally or alternatively be employed. For instance, the device may send an uplink telemetry signal to an external device to request that recharge power be decreased. The device may switch additional resistance into the circuit of the coil to reduce the Q of the circuit. As another example, the device may clamp the circuit of the coil to ground. | 08-04-2011 |
20110208269 | Battery Protection and Zero-Volt Battery Recovery System for an Implantable Medical Device - Circuitry useable to protect and reliably charge a rechargeable battery, even from a zero-volt state, is disclosed, and is particularly useful when employed in an implantable medical device. The circuit includes two charging paths, a first path for trickle charging the battery at a relatively low current when the battery voltage is below a threshold, and a second path for charging the battery at relatively higher currents that the battery voltage is above a certain threshold. A passive diode is used in the first trickle-charging path which allows trickle charging even when the battery voltage is too low for reliable gating, while a gateable switch (preferably a PMOS transistor) is used in the second higher-current charging path when the voltage is higher and the switch can therefore be gated more reliably. A second diode between the two paths ensures no leakage to the substrate through the gateable switch during trickle charging. The load couples to the battery through the switch, and preferably through a second switch specifically used for decoupling the load. | 08-25-2011 |
20110276111 | External Charger with Customizable Magnetic Charging Field - Improved external chargers for charging an implantable medical device, and particularly useful in charging a plurality of such devices, are disclosed. Each of the various embodiments include a plurality of field customization coils for customizing the magnetic charging field generated by the external charger such that the magnetic charging field is not radially symmetric. For example, one embodiment includes a primary coil with a plurality of field customization coils distributed radially with respect to the coil. The generated magnetic charging field can be rendered radially asymmetric by selectively activating or disabling the field customization coils in response to data quantifying the coupling between the various implants and the field customization coils in the charger. If there is a relatively high coupling between a particular implant and a particular customization coil for example, that customization coil can be activated to counter the magnetic charging field at that location, while still maintaining a relatively high magnetic charging field at the location of other implants that may have lower couplings. | 11-10-2011 |
20110282415 | Wearable wireless power transmitter - Described embodiments include a system, an apparatus, and a method. A described system includes a portable power receiver configured to wirelessly receive electrical or radiant power from a wireless power transmitter source, and configured to be carried by a health care provider proximate to a first body portion of the health care provider. The system also includes a portable power-output device configured to interact with a power-receiving device connected to a handheld medical device, and configured to be carried by the health care provider proximate to a second body portion of the health care provider. If interacting, the electrical or radiant power is transferred from the portable power-output device to the power-receiving device. The system further includes a connective structure configured to transfer the electrical or radiant power between the portable power receiver and the portable power-output device. | 11-17-2011 |
20110301669 | Alignment Indication for Transcutaneous Energy Transfer - System for transcutaneous energy transfer. An implantable medical device, adapted to be implanted in a patient, has componentry for providing a therapeutic output. The implantable medical device has an internal power source and a secondary coil operatively coupled to the internal power source. An external power source, having a primary coil, provides energy to the implantable medical device when the primary coil of the external power source is placed in proximity of the secondary coil of the implantable medical device and thereby generates a current in the internal power source. An alignment indicator reports the alignment as a function of the current generated in the internal power source with a predetermined value associated with an expected alignment between the primary coil and secondary coil. | 12-08-2011 |
20110307034 | Renal Denervation and Stimulation Employing Wireless Vascular Energy Transfer Arrangement - Devices, systems, and methods provide for intravascular or extravascular delivery of renal denervation therapy and/or renal control stimulation therapy. Wireless vascular thermal transfer apparatuses and methods provide for one or both of production of current densities sufficient to ablate renal nerves and terminate renal sympathetic nerve activity, and production of current densities sufficient to induce endothelium dependent vasodilation of the renal artery bed. A common apparatus may be used for both renal ablation and control of renal function locally after renal denervation. | 12-15-2011 |
20120004709 | Charging System for an Implantable Medical Device Employing Magnetic and Electric Fields - A base station for passively recharging a battery in an implant without patient involvement is disclosed. The base station can be hand held or may comprise equipment configured to be placed at a fixed location, such as under a bed, on or next to a wall, etc. The base station can generate electric and magnetic fields (E-field and B-field) that couple with an antenna and a receiving coil within the implant to generate a charging current for charging the implant's battery. No handling or manipulation on part of the patient is necessary; the implant battery is passively charged whenever the patient is within range of either the magnetic or electric charging fields generated by base station. Charging using the B-field occurs when the IPG is at a relatively short distance from the base station, while charging using the E-field occurs at longer distances. Back telemetry from the implant can inform the base station whether B-field or E-field charging is indicated, and is preferred if possible for its ability to transfer higher amounts of power to the implant. | 01-05-2012 |
20120035687 | IMPLANTABLE ELECTRICAL STIMULATOR - Disclosed herein is an implantable electrical stimulator which includes two stimulating electrodes, a system-on-chip and an inductive coil. The system-on-chip can apply electric stimulation to the dorsal root ganglion via the stimulating electrodes. An external power supply can wirelessly charge the system-on-chip through the inductive coil. | 02-09-2012 |
20120089202 | Flexible Coil Design for Implantable Device - A coupling coil is described for transcutaneous coupling of energy and communications signal in an implantable implant system. The coupling coil has a defined coil plane and multiple concentric curved planar surfaces of conductor and insulation laminate which are arranged perpendicular to the coil plane. | 04-12-2012 |
20120172948 | Implantable Medical Device with Single Coil for Charging and Communicating - A combination charging and telemetry circuit for use within an implantable device, such as a microstimulator, uses a single coil for both charging and telemetry. In accordance with one aspect of the invention, one or more capacitors are used to tune the single coil to different frequencies, wherein the coil is used for multiple purposes, e.g., for receiving power from an external source and also for the telemetry of information to and from an external source. | 07-05-2012 |
20120197351 | MEDICAL DEVICE RECHARGE SYSTEMS USING A CONTROLLER IN WIRELESS COMMUNICATION WITH A SEPARATE RECHARGE DEVICE - Medical device recharging systems include a controller and a separate recharge device that communicate wirelessly together to provide recharging to an implantable medical device. Either the controller or the recharge device may also communicate wirelessly with the implantable medical device to obtain recharge status and other information. There may be multiple recharge devices present within communication range of the controller, and the controller may determine which recharge device to activate depending upon proximity of each recharge device to the implantable medical device. The controller may allow the recharge device that is active at any given time to change so that the patient having the implantable medical device can move about in the area where the recharge devices are located while recharging continues. | 08-02-2012 |
20120197352 | Charging and Communication System for a Battery-Powered Microstimulator - A system and method are provided for both recharging and communicating with a stimulator having a rechargeable battery, which stimulator is implanted deeply in the body, in particular where the stimulator is a microstimulator, the system includes a base station and an external device, for instance a chair pad. The chair pad may contain an antenna/charging coil and a booster coil. The antenna/charging coil can be used for charging the rechargeable battery and also for communicating with the stimulator using frequency shift keying and on-off keying. The booster coil can be used to recharge a battery depleted to zero volts. The base station connected to the chair pad may be used to power the antenna/charging coil and the booster coil. | 08-02-2012 |
20120203306 | SYSTEMS FOR REMOTE GENERATION OF ELECTRICAL SIGNAL IN TISSUE BASED ON TIME-REVERSAL ACOUSTICS - A time-reversal acoustics system includes a transmitter configured to send a high intensity acoustic waveform signal focused on an implantable receiver. The receiver includes a piezoelectric transducer configured to convert received acoustic energy to an electrical signal used to energize an internal electrical circuit. Such circuit may be used to operate at least one tissue stimulating electrode, at least one sensor such as an ECG sensor, charge an internal battery or perform another useful function. The system of the invention may be used as a wireless cardiac pacemaker or a neurostimulator. | 08-09-2012 |
20120239117 | WIRELESS ENERGY TRANSFER WITH RESONATOR ARRAYS FOR MEDICAL APPLICATIONS - A medical device-powering wireless receiver for use with a first electromagnetic resonator coupled to a power supply. The wireless receiver includes a load configured to power the medical device using electrical power, and a second electromagnetic resonator adapted to be housed within the medical device and configured to be coupled to the load, at least one other electromagnetic resonator configured with the first electromagnetic resonator and the second electromagnetic resonator in an array of electromagnetic resonators to distribute power over an area, wherein the second electromagnetic resonator is configured to be wirelessly coupled to the array to provide resonant, non-radiative wireless power to the second electromagnetic resonator from the first electromagnetic resonator. | 09-20-2012 |
20120239118 | Techniques for Controlling Charging of Batteries in an External Charger and an Implantable Medical Device - Disclosed are charging algorithms implementable in an external charger for controlling the charging of both an external battery in the external charger and an implant battery in an implantable medical device. Because full-powered simultaneous charging of both batteries can generate excessive heat in the external charger, the various charging algorithms are designed to ensure that both batteries are ultimately charged, but in a manner considerate of heat generation. In some embodiments, the charging algorithms prevent simultaneous charging of both batteries by arbitrating which battery is given charging precedence at a given point in time. In other embodiments, the charging algorithms allow for simultaneous charging of both batteries, but with at least one of the batteries being only weakly charged at low power levels. In other embodiments, the temperature generated in the external charger is monitored and used to control the charging algorithm. | 09-20-2012 |
20120277829 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CHARGING A POWER CELL IN AN IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE - Apparatus and methods for charging a power cell in an implantable medical device (“IMD”) are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, a method includes providing an electrical pulse to an inductor external to the IMD. A frequency of an oscillation signal induced in the inductor by the current pulse is measured. The inductor is driven with an oscillating signal having a frequency based on the measured frequency of the oscillation signal. The power cell is charged using current induced in the IMD by the driving of the inductor. | 11-01-2012 |
20130018440 | POWERING OF AN IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL THERAPY DELIVERY DEVICE USING FAR FIELD RADIATIVE POWERING AT MULTIPLE FREQUENCIES - A particular implantable device may include one or more antennas configured to receive a first far field radiative signal and a second far field radiative signal. The one or more antennas may be configured to receive the first far field radiative signal in a first frequency band and to receive the second far field radiative signal in a second frequency band. The implantable device may include a voltage rectifier configured to rectify the received first far field radiative signal and the received second far field radiative signal to provide a rectified voltage signal. The implantable device may further include a charge storage element operative to receive the rectified voltage signal and to store charge responsive to the rectified voltage signal. The implantable device may also include a therapy delivery unit powered by the charge storage element. The therapy delivery unit may be operative to deliver a therapy to a patient. | 01-17-2013 |
20130023958 | Devices and Methods for Visually Indicating the Alignment of a Transcutaneous Energy Transfer Device Over an Implanted Medical Device - 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. | 01-24-2013 |
20130030502 | SYSTEMS CONFIGURED TO POWER AT LEAST ONE DEVICE DISPOSED IN A LIVING SUBJECT, AND RELATED APPARATUSES AND METHODS - Embodiments disclosed herein are directed to systems configured to power at least one device disposed in a living subject, apparatuses configured to be disposed in a living subject and export power stored in an energy-storage device, and related methods of powering at least one device disposed in the living subject. | 01-31-2013 |
20130041429 | External Charger for a Medical Implantable Device Using Field Inducing Coils to Improve Coupling - By incorporating magnetic field-inducing position determination coils (PDCs) in an external charger, it is possible to determine the position of an implantable device by actively inducing magnetic fields using the PDCs and sensing the reflected magnetic field from the implant. In one embodiment, the PDCs are driven by an AC power source with a frequency equal to the charging coil. In another embodiment, the PDCs are driven by an AC power source at a frequency different from that of the charging coil. By comparing the relative reflected magnetic field strengths at each of the PDCs, the position of the implant relative to the external charger can be determined. Audio and/or visual feedback can then be communicated to the patient to allow the patient to improve the alignment of the charger. | 02-14-2013 |
20130046361 | MOLDABLE CHARGER WITH SHAPE-SENSING MEANS FOR AN IMPLANTABLE PULSE GENERATOR - Electrical energy is transcutaneously transmitted from an external charger to an implanted medical device. The external charger includes a charging head that is selectively shapeable to conform to the surface of a patient to enhance charge efficiency and patient comfort. An alternating current charging coil is housed in the charging head and configured for transcutaneously transmitting electrical energy to the implanted medical device. The shape of the coil is changeable as the charging head is shaped, and at least one sensor determines changes in the shape of the charging coil and causes the charge of the coil to be adjusted based on the coil shape. | 02-21-2013 |
20130073003 | Devices, Methods, and Systems for Harvesting Energy in the Body - In some embodiments, the power generator for converting mechanical energy to electrical energy may include a compressible element adapted and configured to be placed in an environment having a variable compressive force such as varying ambient pressures. The compressible element may be compressed by a force applied by the variable pressure to the compressible element. The power generator may further include a transducer that may be coupled to the compressible element and that may convert mechanical energy from the compression of the compressible element to electrical energy. In some embodiments, the power generator may be adapted to be an implantable power generator for converting mechanical energy from a patient to electrical energy, such that the compressible element adapted and configured to be placed between two adjacent tissue layers of the patient and to be compressed by a force applied from the two adjacent tissue layers to the compressible element. | 03-21-2013 |
20130073004 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR A SMALL POWER SOURCE FOR AN IMPLANTABLE DEVICE - One example includes a battery that includes a stack of at least one substantially planar anode and at least one substantially planar cathode, wherein the stack defines a contoured exterior, and a battery housing enclosing the stack, the battery housing defining a battery housing exterior, wherein the contoured exterior of the stack is shaped to conform to a contoured interior of the battery housing that approximately conforms to the battery housing exterior, the battery produced by the process of modeling, using fluid dynamics, an exterior of a biocompatible housing and shaping the battery housing to conform to at least some of the exterior of the biocompatible housing. | 03-21-2013 |
20130073005 | External Device for Communicating with an Implantable Medical Device Having Data Telemetry and Charging Integrated in a Single Housing - An improved embodiment of an external device for an implantable medical device system is described herein, where the external device has both circuitry for charging the implantable medical device and circuitry for telemetering data to and from the medical implant contained within a single housing. The external device in one embodiment includes orthogonal radiators in which both the radiators are used for data transfer, and in which at least one of the radiators is used for power transfer. Having charging and data telemetry circuitry fully integrated within a single external device conveniences both patient and clinician. | 03-21-2013 |
20130096650 | Position-Determining External Charger for an Implantable Medical Device - An improved external charger for an implantable medical device is disclosed in which charging is at least partially controlled based on a determined position of the external charger, which position may be indicative of the pressure between the external charger and a patient's tissue. The improved external charger includes one or more position determination elements, e.g., an accelerometer or gyrometer, and control circuitry for controlling the external device in accordance with the determined position. The determined position of the external charger can be used to control charging, for example, by suspending charging, by adjusting the intensity of charging, by adjusting a maximum set point temperature for the external charger, or issuing an alert via a suitable user interface. By so controlling the external charger on the basis of the determined position, the external charger is less likely to create potentially problematic or uncomfortable conditions for the user. | 04-18-2013 |
20130096651 | Charger Alignment in an Implantable Medical Device System Employing Reflected Impedance Modulation - The disclosed means of determining alignment between an external charger and an implantable medical device (IMD) involves the use of reflected impedance modulation, i.e., by measuring at the external charger reflections arising from modulating the impedance of the charging coil in the IMD. During charging, the charging coil in the IMD is pulsed to modulate its impedance. The difference in the coil voltage (ΔV) produced at the external charger as a result of these pulses is assessed and is used by the external charger to indicate coupling. If the magnitude of ΔV is above a threshold, the external charger considers the coupling to the IMD to be adequate, and an alignment indicator in the external charger is controlled accordingly. The magnitude of Vcoil can be assessed in addition to ΔV to determine alignment with the IMD with improved precision, and/or to further define a high quality alignment condition. | 04-18-2013 |
20130096652 | Closed Loop Charger for an Implantable Medical Device System Employing Reflected Impedance Modulation - The disclosed system for providing closed loop charging between an external charger and an implantable medical device such as an IPG involves the use of reflected impedance modulation, i.e., by measuring at the external charger reflections arising from modulating the impedance of the charging coil in the IPG. During charging, the charging coil in the IPG is periodically pulsed to modulate its impedance. The magnitude of the change in the coil voltage produced at the external charger ΔV as a result of these pulses is assessed and is used by the controller circuitry in the external charger as indicative of the coupling between the external charger and the IPG. The external charger adjusts its output power (e.g., Icharge) in accordance with the magnitude of ΔV, thus achieving closed loop charging without the need of telemetering coupling parameters from the IPG. | 04-18-2013 |
20130096653 | EXTERNAL CHARGING DEVICE FOR CHARGING AN IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE AND METHODS OF REGULATING DUTY CYCLE OF AN EXTERNAL CHARGING DEVICE - In one embodiment, an external charging device for recharging an implanted medical device, comprises: a battery for powering the external charging device; a coil for radiating RF power; drive circuitry for driving the coil according to a duty cycle; circuitry for generating a signal that is indicative of an amount of current flowing through the coil; and control circuitry for controlling the drive circuitry, wherein the control circuitry is operable to process the signal from the circuitry for generating to detect when a coil of the implantable medical device temporarily ceases absorbing RF power, the control circuitry modifying the duty cycle in response to detection of the coil of the implantable medical device temporarily ceasing absorbing RF power. | 04-18-2013 |
20130123880 | DETECTOR-BASED AORTIC STIMULATION - Apparatus is provided, including (1) an external device, configured for placement outside of a body of a subject and to sense a factor of the subject, and to generate a signal in response to the sensed factor, and (2) an implant, which comprises a wireless receiver for receiving the signal, and at least one electrode, the implant configured to drive the electrode to apply current to an aortic and/or vagal site of the subject in response to the signal. | 05-16-2013 |
20130123881 | External Charger for an Implantable Medical Device System Having a Coil for Communication and Charging - Disclosed in an improved medical implantable device system including an improved external charger that is able to communicate with an external controller and IPG using the communication protocol (e.g., FSK) used to implement communications between the external controller and the implant. The external controller as modified uses its charging coil to charge the implant, and also to communicate with the other devices in the system. As such, the external charger is provided with transceiver circuitry operating in accordance with the protocol, and also includes tuning circuitry to tune the coil as necessary for communications or charging. Communication or charging access to the charging coil in the external charger is time multiplexed. The disclosed system allows charging information to be provided to the user interface of the external controller so that it can be reviewed by the user, who may take corrective action if necessary. Also disclosed are schemes for synchronizing and arbitrating communications between the devices in the system. | 05-16-2013 |
20130123882 | DIPOLAR ANTENNA SYSTEM AND RELATED METHODS - Some embodiments include a dipolar antenna system to electrically power an implantable miniature device and/or to stimulate bioelectrically excitable tissue. Other related systems and methods are also disclosed. | 05-16-2013 |
20130158631 | AUTOMATIC POWER REGULATION FOR TRANSCUTANEOUS ENERGY TRANSFER CHARGING SYSTEM - Methods and systems for controlling power output from an external power source in a transcutaneous energy transfer (TET) system are provided to prevent inadvertent energy transfer when no secondary coil is present. The system operates by transmitting power transcutaneously from an external primary coil and determining whether a response from a secondary coil implanted within a patient is detected. If no response is detected, the power output of the primary coil is decreased. The decrease in power output can be accomplished by operating the primary coil at a lower average power level, which can include variations in power level, duty cycle, etc. The system can also be configured to periodically repeat the process in order to continue searching for a coupled secondary coil. | 06-20-2013 |
20130165997 | Pressure-Sensitive External Charger for an Implantable Medical Device - An improved external charger for an implantable medical device is disclosed in which charging is at least partially controlled based on a sensed pressure impingent on its case, which pressure is indicative of the pressure between the external charger and a patient's tissue. The improved external charger includes pressure detection circuitry coupled to one or more pressure sensors for controlling the external device in accordance with the sensed impingent pressure. The sensed pressure can be used to control charging, for example, by suspending charging, by adjusting a maximum set point temperature for the external charger based on the measured pressure, or by issuing an alert via a suitable user interface. By so controlling the external charger on the basis of the measured pressure, the external charger is less likely to create potentially problematic or uncomfortable conditions for the user. | 06-27-2013 |
20130178915 | HIGH POWER ULTRASOUND WIRELESS TRANSCUTANEOUS ENERGY TRANSFER (US-TET) SOURCE - A bio-implantable energy capture and storage assembly is provided. The assembly includes an acoustic energy transmitter and an acoustic energy receiver. The acoustic energy receiver also functions as an energy converter for converting acoustic energy to electrical energy. An electrical energy storage device is connected to the energy converter, and is contained within a bio-compatible implant for implantation into tissue. The acoustic energy transmitter is separate from the implant, and comprises a substantially 2-dimensional array of transmitters. | 07-11-2013 |
20130197608 | HEAT DISPERSION FOR IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICES - An implantable medical device that includes electrical circuitry for providing a therapy to a patient. The device also includes a housing forming an inner chamber that is adapted for receiving, at least a portion of the electrical circuitry. The device further includes a thermally conductive material that is configured to disperse heat from a first portion of the implantable medical device that is located in proximity to a heat generating component of the electrical circuitry, to a second portion of the implantable medical device that is not located in proximity to said heat generating component. The thermally conductive material is a discrete component separate from the electrical circuitry and the housing. | 08-01-2013 |
20130197609 | IMPLANTABLE WIRELESS ACCOUSTIC STIMULATORS WITH HIGH ENERGY CONVERSION EFFICIENCIES - Receiver-stimulator with folded or rolled up assembly of piezoelectric components, causing the receiver-stimulator to operate with a high degree of isotropy are disclosed. The receiver-stimulator comprises piezoelectric components, rectifier circuitry, and at least two stimulation electrodes. Isotropy allows the receiver-stimulator to be implanted with less concern regarding the orientation relative the transmitted acoustic field from an acoustic energy source. | 08-01-2013 |
20130211479 | Alignment Indication for Transcutaneous Energy Transfer - System for transcutaneous energy transfer. An implantable medical device, adapted to be implanted in a patient, has componentry for providing a therapeutic output. The implantable medical device has an internal power source and a secondary coil operatively coupled to the internal power source. An external power source, having a primary coil, provides energy to the implantable medical device when the primary coil of the external power source is placed in proximity of the secondary coil of the implantable medical device and thereby generates a current in the internal power source. An alignment indicator reports the alignment as a function of the current generated in the internal power source with a predetermined value associated with an expected alignment between the primary coil and secondary coil. | 08-15-2013 |
20130245721 | External Controller/Charger System for an Implantable Medical Device Capable of Automatically Providing Data Telemetry Through a Charging Coil During a Charging Session - An external controller/charger system for an implantable medical device is disclosed, in which the external controller/charger system provides automatic switching between telemetry and charging without any manual intervention by the patient. The external controller/charger system includes an external controller which houses a telemetry coil and an external charging coil coupled to the external controller. Normally, a charging session is carried out using the external charging coil, and a telemetry session is carried out using the telemetry coil. However, when a patient requests to carry out telemetry during a charging session, the external charging coil is used instead of the internal telemetry coil. | 09-19-2013 |
20130253613 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR ELECTRICAL STIMULATION USING HEADPHONE AUDIO - Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS), a method of stimulating nerves using electrical current applied through the skin for therapeutic purposes, has been in use since the late 1970's, as have electronic units for self-administration of TENS therapy. With the recent increase in popularity of mobile devices capable of audio playback (smart phones, portable computing devices, MP3 players etc.), most TENS users already carry consumer electronic equipment capable of providing power and control to another device via its audio port. A TENS unit designed to: (a) be coupled with an audio playback capable device, (b) make use of its power and (c) rely on it for user interaction, provides a smaller, less expensive and more convenient portable treatment solution. This approach can be extended to other electrotherapy forms utilizing similar power budgets: Microcurrent Electrical Nerve Stimulation (MENS), Percutaneous Tibial Nerve Stimulation (PTNS), Electrical Muscle Stimulation/Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation (EMS/NMES). | 09-26-2013 |
20130253614 | Molding Device to Precisely Hold a Recharge Antenna - A method of making a custom mold and the custom mold itself having a first layer, a second layer, and a tail that are formed around the bulging area of an implantable medical device (IMD) are presented. The moldable material during hardening is flattened to form a docking platform for the flat planar bottom of an external antenna. The final apparatus of an antenna support may have all the custom contours of the patient's body around the implanted IMD. An optional tape patch and/or bandage may help maintain a proper placement of the external antenna over the IMD depending on amount of mobility the patient wishes to have during charging. An alternate embodiment uses magnets to secure an external antenna over a metallic segment of an IMD. | 09-26-2013 |
20130261703 | POWERING MULTIPLE IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL THERAPY DELIVERY DEVICES USING FAR FIELD RADIATIVE POWERING AT MULTIPLE FREQUENCIES - A system includes a first implantable medical device configured to receive a first far field radiative signal at a first frequency from an external transmitter to charge a first charge storage device. The first implantable medical device includes a first therapy delivery unit powered by the first charge storage device. The first therapy delivery unit delivers a first therapy to a first target tissue of a patient. The system also includes a second implantable medical device configured to receive a second far field radiative signal at a second frequency from the external transmitter to charge a second charge storage device. The second implantable medical device includes a second therapy delivery unit powered by the second charge storage device. The second therapy delivery unit delivers a second therapy to a second target tissue of the patient. | 10-03-2013 |
20130261704 | External Charger for a Medical Implantable Device Using Field Sensing Coils to Improve Coupling - By incorporating magnetic field sensing coils in an external charger, it is possible to determine the position of an implantable device by sensing the reflected magnetic field from the implant. In one embodiment, two or more field sensing coils are arranged to sense the reflected magnetic field. By comparing the relative reflected magnetic field strengths of the sensing coils, the position of the implant relative to the external charger can be determined. Audio and/or visual feedback can then be communicated to the patient to allow the patient to improve the alignment of the charger. | 10-03-2013 |
20130268029 | Implantable Transponder Systems and Methods - A method and system for providing electrical stimulation to tissue includes implanting one or more battery-free micro-transponders having spiral antennas into tissue. Energy is provided wirelessly to the plurality of micro-transponders. Tissue is stimulated using the energy. | 10-10-2013 |
20130274828 | OPERATION AND ESTIMATION OF OUTPUT VOLTAGE OF WIRELESS STIMULATORS - A controller-transmitter transmits acoustic energy through the body to an implanted acoustic receiver-stimulator. The receiver-stimulator converts the acoustic energy into electrical energy and delivers the electrical energy to tissue using an electrode assembly. The receiver-stimulator limits the output voltage delivered to the tissue to a predetermined maximum output voltage. In the presence of interfering acoustic energy sources output voltages are thereby limited prior to being delivered to the tissue. Furthermore, the controller-transmitter estimates the output voltage that is delivered to the tissue by the implanted receiver-stimulator. The controller-transmitter measures a query spike voltage resulting from the electrical energy delivered to the tissue by the receiver-stimulator, and computes a ratio of the predetermined maximum output voltage and a maximum query spike voltage. The maximum query spike voltage is computed by detecting a query spike voltage plateau. Based on this ratio, the controller-transmitter uses a measured query spike voltage to estimate the output voltage delivered by the receiver-stimulator to tissue. | 10-17-2013 |
20130274829 | NEUROSTIMULATION DEVICE HAVING FREQUENCY SELECTIVE SURFACE TO PREVENT ELECTROMAGNETIC INTERFERENCE DURING MRI - An implantable medical device comprises an antenna configured for wirelessly receiving energy of a first frequency from an external device, electronic circuitry configured for performing a function in response to the receipt of the received energy, and a biocompatible housing containing the electronic circuitry and antenna. The housing includes a substrate structure and a two-dimensional array of elements disposed on the substrate structure. The array of elements and substrate structure are arranged in a manner that creates a frequency selective surface capable of reflecting at least a portion of energy of a second frequency incident on the housing, while passing at least a portion of energy of the first frequency incident on the housing to the antenna. | 10-17-2013 |
20130289662 | RECHARGE OF AN IMPLANTABLE DEVICE IN THE PRESENCE OF OTHER CONDUCTIVE OBJECTS - Techniques are disclosed for controlling the transcutaneously transfer of energy to an implantable medical device (IMD) that is in proximity to a conductive object that conducts current in the presence of an electromagnetic field. Various techniques are disclosed for estimating or determining the levels of heat dissipation associated with the object during the transfer of energy. If too much heat is being dissipated, the transfer of energy may be adjusted so that heating remains below acceptable levels. | 10-31-2013 |
20130304158 | TRANSCUTANEOUS ENERGY TRANSFER MODULE WITH INTEGRATED CONVERSION CIRCUITY - An implantable transcutaneous energy transfer device secondary coil module includes a housing, a secondary coil, power conditioning circuitry, and a low voltage, high power connector. The transcutaneous energy transfer secondary coil is disposed outside the housing and is configured to receive a time-varying magnetic field provided by a transcutaneous energy transfer primary coil, and to convert the time-varying magnetic field into a high voltage, alternating current electric signal within the coil. The power conditioning circuitry is mounted within the housing and is electrically coupled to the secondary coil. The power conditioning circuitry including electronics for converting the high voltage, alternating current electric signal from the secondary coil into a high power, low voltage direct current electric signal. The low voltage, high power connector electrically coupled to the power conditioning circuitry and extending outside the housing for connecting the secondary coil module to a power bus for delivering power to implanted devices. | 11-14-2013 |
20130331910 | Power Architecture for an Implantable Medical Device Having a Non-Rechargeable Battery - An improved architecture for an implantable medical device using a primary battery is disclosed which reduces the need for boosting the voltage of the primary battery, and hence reduces the power draw in the implant. The architecture includes a boost converter for boosting the voltage of the primary battery and for supplying that boosted voltage to certain of the circuit blocks, which is particularly useful if the battery voltage is necessarily lower than the minimal input power supply voltage necessary for the circuit blocks to operate. However, circuitry capable of operation even at low battery voltages—including the telemetry tank circuitry and the compliance voltage generator—receives the battery voltage directly without boosting, thus saving power. | 12-12-2013 |
20140005752 | HIGH FREQUENCY NEUROMODULATION SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR REDUCING ENERGY REQUIREMENTS | 01-02-2014 |
20140012352 | External Charger for a Medical Implantable Device Using Field Inducing Coils to Improve Coupling - By incorporating magnetic field-inducing position determination coils (PDCs) in an external charger, it is possible to determine the position of an implantable device by actively inducing magnetic fields using the PDCs and sensing the reflected magnetic field from the implant. In one embodiment, the PDCs are driven by an AC power source with a frequency equal to the charging coil. In another embodiment, the PDCs are driven by an AC power source at a frequency different from that of the charging coil. By comparing the relative reflected magnetic field strengths at each of the PDCs, the position of the implant relative to the external charger can be determined. Audio and/or visual feedback can then be communicated to the patient to allow the patient to improve the alignment of the charger. | 01-09-2014 |
20140025140 | Self-Affixing External Charging System for an Implantable Medical Device - An external charging system for charging or powering an implantable medical device is disclosed which is self-affixing to the patient without the need for a holding device. The charging system can comprise two modules attached to opposite ends of a flexible member. The flexible member is bendable, and when bent will firmly hold its position on the patient. The two modules can comprise a coil module containing a charging coil, and an electronics module including a user interface and the necessary electronics for activating the charging coil to produce a magnetic charging field. Wires can couple the charging coil in the coil module to the electronics in the electronics modules. The entire assembly can be encased in a water proof sleeve having a high-friction surface, which protects the charging system and helps the charging system to adhere to the patient. | 01-23-2014 |
20140039579 | Method for Controlling Energy Delivery as a Function of Degree of Coupling - A method for delivering energy as a function of degree coupling may utilize an external unit configured for location external to a body of a subject and at least one processor associated with the implant unit and configured for electrical communication with a power source. The method may determine a degree of coupling between the primary antenna and a secondary antenna associated with the implant unit, and regulate delivery of power to the implant unit based on the degree of coupling between the primary antenna and the secondary antenna. | 02-06-2014 |
20140046404 | IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE CHARGING - A particular method of providing power to an implantable medical device includes providing a first signal to a primary coil that is inductively coupled to a secondary coil of an implantable medical device. The method also include determining a first alignment difference between a voltage corresponding to the first signal and at least one of a current corresponding to the first signal and a component voltage at a component of a primary coil circuit. The method further includes determining a frequency sweep range based on the first alignment difference. The method also includes performing a frequency sweep over the frequency sweep range. | 02-13-2014 |
20140046405 | Pressure-Sensitive External Charger for an Implantable Medical Device - An improved external charger for an implantable medical device is disclosed in which charging is at least partially controlled based on a sensed pressure impingent on its case, which pressure is indicative of the pressure between the external charger and a patient's tissue. The improved external charger includes pressure detection circuitry coupled to one or more pressure sensors for controlling the external device in accordance with the sensed impingent pressure. The sensed pressure can be used to control charging, for example, by suspending charging, by adjusting a maximum set point temperature for the external charger based on the measured pressure, or by issuing an alert via a suitable user interface. By so controlling the external charger on the basis of the measured pressure, the external charger is less likely to create potentially problematic or uncomfortable conditions for the user. | 02-13-2014 |
20140052219 | Transcutaneous Power Conveyance Device - Some embodiments of the present disclosure may include a device for conveying power from a location external to a subject to a location within the subject The device may include a flexible carrier, an adhesive on a first side of the carrier, a coil of electrically conductive material associated with the flexible carrier, and a mechanical connector extending from a second side of the carrier opposite the adhesive. The mechanical connector may be configured to be received by and retained by a receiver associated with a housing configured for mounting on the carrier. | 02-20-2014 |
20140074185 | METHOD OF MINIMIZING INTERRUPTIONS TO IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE RECHARGING - A system and method of controlling the charging of the battery of a medical device using a remote inductive charger, with the method utilizing both a relatively fast closed-loop charging control based on a proxy for a target power transmission value in conjunction, and a slower closed-loop control based on an actual measured transmission value to control a charging power level for charging the medical device. | 03-13-2014 |
20140074186 | NEURAL STIMULATION DEVICES AND SYSTEMS FOR TREATMENT OF CHRONIC INFLAMMATION - A system for treating chronic inflammation may include an implantable microstimulator, a wearable charger, and optionally an external controller. The implantable microstimulator may be implemented as a leadless neurostimulator implantable in communication with a cervical region of a vagus nerve. The microstimulator can address several types of stimulation including regular dose delivery. The wearable charger may be worn around the subject's neck to rapidly (<10 minutes per week) charge an implanted microstimulator. The external controller may be configured as a prescription pad that controls the dosing and activity of the microstimulator. | 03-13-2014 |
20140148875 | EXTERNAL UNIT FOR IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE COUPLED BY CORD - User interface for external power source, recharger, for an implantable medical device. At least some of patient controls and display icons of an energy transfer unit are common with at least some of the patient controls and the display icons of a patient control unit. An energy transfer unit is operable by the patient with less than three operative controls to control energy transfer from the external energy transfer unit to the implantable medical device. An external antenna having a primary coil can inductively transfer energy to a secondary coil of the implantable medical device when the external antenna is externally placed in proximity of the secondary coil. An energy transfer unit has an external telemetry coil allowing the energy transfer unit to communicate with the implantable medical device through the internal telemetry coil in order to at least partially control the therapeutic output of the implantable medical device. | 05-29-2014 |
20140155959 | ENERGY TRANSFER CONTROL ADAPTED TO A MEDICAL DEVICE SYSTEM - The disclosed invention varies the width of the energy pulses with constant frequency and constant amplitude to regulate the amount of energy transferred from an energy transmitting device placed outside a patient to an energy receiver inside the patient. The pulse width is achieved with a modulation technique, PWMT, to control the amount of energy transferred from the external energy transmitting coil in the system to the implanted receiver. The PWMT is used to digitally vary the amount of power from the power amplifier that drives the transmitting coil. Compared to previous analog systems a PWM system is a great deal more efficient and can easily be controlled from a digital domain system such as a microprocessor. | 06-05-2014 |
20140163648 | Medical Device Recharge Systems Using a Controller in Wireless Communication with a Separate Recharge Device - Medical device recharging systems include a controller and a separate recharge device that communicate wirelessly together to provide recharging to an implantable medical device. Either the controller or the recharge device may also communicate wirelessly with the implantable medical device to obtain recharge status and other information. There may be multiple recharge devices present within communication range of the controller, and the controller may determine which recharge device to activate depending upon proximity of each recharge device to the implantable medical device. The controller may allow the recharge device that is active at any given time to change so that the patient having the implantable medical device can move about in the area where the recharge devices are located while recharging continues. | 06-12-2014 |
20140200631 | Efficient External Charger for Charging a Plurality of Implantable Medical Devices - An external charger for a battery in an implantable medical device (implant), and technique for charging batteries in multiple implants using such improved external charger, is disclosed. During charging, values for a parameter measured in the implants are reported from the implants to the external charger. The external charger infers from the magnitudes of the parameters which of the implants has the highest (hot) and lowest (cold) coupling to the external charger. The intensity of the magnetic charging field is optimized for the cold implant to ensure that it is charged with a maximum (fastest) battery charging current. The duty cycle of the magnetic charging field is also optimized for the hot implant to ensure that it does not exceed a power dissipation limit. As a result, charging is optimized to be fast for all of the implants, while still safe from a tissue heating perspective. | 07-17-2014 |
20140222112 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR VISUALLY INDICATING THE ALIGNMENT OF A TRANSCUTANEOUS ENERGY TRANSFER DEVICE OVER AN IMPLANTED MEDICAL DEVICE - 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. | 08-07-2014 |
20140249603 | Battery Charger Circuit for Battery Powered Implantable Neurostimulation Systems - An implantable device includes a stimulation electronic circuit, a battery, a receiver configured to receive energy from a source external to the implantable stimulation device, and a battery charger circuit configured to use the energy to charge the battery and power the stimulation electronic circuit, the battery charger circuit including a load switch for connecting/disconnecting the battery, the load switch being controlled by the stimulation electronic circuit. | 09-04-2014 |
20140277287 | Efficient External Charger for an Implantable Medical Device Optimized for Fast Charging and Constrained by an Implant Power Dissipation Limit - An external charger for a battery in an implantable medical device and charging techniques are disclosed. Simulation data is used to model the power dissipation of the charging circuitry in the implant at varying levels of implant power. A power dissipation limit constrains the charging circuitry from producing an inordinate amount of heat to the tissue surrounding the implant, and duty cycles of a charging field are determined so as not to exceed that limit. A maximum simulated average battery current determines the optimal (i.e., quickest) battery charging current, and at least an optimal value for a parameter indicative of that current is determined and stored in the external charger. During charging, the actual value for that parameter is determined, and the intensity and/or duty cycle of the charging field are adjusted to ensure that charging is as fast as possible, while still not exceeding the power dissipation limit. | 09-18-2014 |
20140330348 | IMPLANT RECHARGER HANDSHAKING SYSTEM AND METHOD - Systems, methods, and devices for wireless recharging of an implanted device. In response to receiving identification information from an implanted device, a charger can set an electrical field to a first field strength and receive first field strength information from the implanted device. The charger can then set the electrical field to a second field strength and receive second field strength information from the implanted device. This information relating to the first and second field strengths can be used to determine whether to recharge the implanted device. | 11-06-2014 |
20140343634 | Self Resonant Transmitting Device - A device for powering an implant within a body of a subject from a location external to the subject, wherein the implant requires a threshold rate of power increase in order to operate in at least one mode, may include an antenna configured to wirelessly transmit energy to the implant. The device may also include a power storage unit configured to store energy from a power source incapable of delivering the threshold rate of power increase to enable the implant unit to operate in the at least one mode and a power release unit configured to release a pulse of energy from the power storage unit to the antenna after the power storage unit collects an amount of energy sufficient to enable the implant unit to operate in the at least one mode. | 11-20-2014 |
20150039056 | Insert Tool for Selectively Powering an Implant Unit - An implant unit delivery tool is disclosed having an implant tool and an implant activator. The implant tool may be configured to retain an implant unit during an implantation procedure in which the implant unit is fixated to tissue. The implant activator may be associated with the implant tool. Additionally, the implant activator may be configured to selectively transfer power to the implant unit during the implantation procedure to cause modulation of at least one nerve in the body of a subject prior to final fixation of the implant unit to the tissue. | 02-05-2015 |
20150057722 | NEURAL STIMULATION DEVICES AND SYSTEMS FOR TREATMENT OF CHRONIC INFLAMMATION - A system for treating chronic inflammation may include an implantable microstimulator, a wearable charger, and optionally an external controller. The implantable microstimulator may be implemented as a leadless neurostimulator implantable in communication with a cervical region of a vagus nerve. The microstimulator can address several types of stimulation including regular dose delivery. The wearable charger may be worn around the subject's neck to rapidly (<10 minutes per week) charge an implanted microstimulator. The external controller may be configured as a prescription pad that controls the dosing and activity of the microstimulator. | 02-26-2015 |
20150073507 | SUPPLY NOISE REJECTION IN IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICES - The present invention provides an implantable medical device having at least two electrodes coupled to the device housing. The electrodes may be configured for sensing physiological signals such as cardiac signals and alternatively for providing an electrical stimulation therapy such as a pacing or defibrillation therapy. In accordance with aspects of the disclosure, the device housing provides a hermetic enclosure that includes a first housing section that is hermetically coupled to a second housing section. At least one of the at least two electrodes is coupled to an exterior surface of the first housing section that encloses the battery components of the device. The first housing section is electrically insulated from the cathode and anode of the battery. | 03-12-2015 |
20150073508 | IMPLANT SLEEP APNEA TREATMENT DEVICE INCLUDING AN ANTENNA - A sleep apnea treatment device may include a flexible carrier configured to be implanted in a body of a subject. The device may also include at least one electrode disposed on the flexible carrier, the at least one electrode being configured to modulate nerve fibers of the subject. A flexible antenna may be disposed on the flexible carrier, the flexible antenna electrically connected to the at least one electrode in a manner permitting at least some energy received by the flexible antenna to be transferred to the at least one electrode. The flexible antenna may include: at least a first conductive trace arranged on a first side of the flexible carrier, the at least a first conductive trace defining at least a first elongated space between portions thereof; and at least a second conductive trace arranged on a second side of the flexible carrier, the at least a second conductive trace defining at least a second elongated space between portions thereof, wherein the at least a first conductive trace is at least partially offset from the at least a second conductive trace such that portions of the first conductive trace overly the at least a second elongated space and wherein portions of the second conductive trace underlay the at least a first elongated space. | 03-12-2015 |
20150073509 | REMOVABLE HEAT MANAGEMENT FOR RECHARGE COILS - Devices, systems, and techniques for managing heat generated in coils for wireless energy transmission are disclosed. Inductive coupling between two coils (e.g., a primary coil and a secondary coil) may be used to recharge the power source of an implantable medical device. A phase change material may be thermally coupled to the primary coil to absorb heat generated during the inductive coupling and reduce temperature increases of the primary coil. In one example, the phase change material may be configured to absorb heat from an energy transfer coil. A housing may be configured to contain the phase change material and a coupling mechanism may be configured to removably attach the housing to the energy transfer coil. | 03-12-2015 |
20150094786 | AUTONOMOUS INTRACORPOREAL CAPSULE WITH FREQUENCY CONVERSION ENERGY HARVESTING - The energy harvester module of the capsule comprises: a primary oscillating structure subjected to an external low-frequency stress; a secondary oscillating structure comprising an elastic element and able to vibrate in high-frequency resonance; and an electrostatic structure with a first electrode coupled to the primary structure and a second electrode coupled to the secondary structure. The electrodes exert a mutual attraction between them driving the secondary structure away from its stable equilibrium position with tensioning of the elastic element, up to a limit beyond which the secondary structure is released by relaxation effect to vibrate at a resonance frequency. A transducer coupled to the secondary structure converts these high frequency vibration movements into electrical energy. | 04-02-2015 |
20150100110 | Controlled Stimulation Delivery from Neurostimulator - A system for providing neurostimulation includes an external device (“external exciter”) and an implanted device. The external exciter includes an energy source which inductively powers the implanted device. Examples of such external exciters include devices having at least one of: ultrasonic transducers, Radio Frequency (RF) transmitters, and solar cells. The implanted device includes circuitry that limits its maximum energy output to a predetermined saturation threshold such that excess stimulation from the external exciter does not raise the output of the implanted device beyond the saturation threshold. The output signal of the external exciter is then pulse-width modulated in order to produce a desired amount of output stimulation from the implanted device to stimulate the bioelectrically excitable tissue at a desired level. | 04-09-2015 |
20150127069 | HIGH EFFICIENCY MAGNETIC LINK FOR IMPLANTABLE DEVICES - Systems and devices for a high-efficiency magnetic link for implantable devices are disclosed herein. These devices can include a charging coil located in the implantable device and a charging coil located in a charge head of a charger. The charging coils can each include an elongate core and wire windings wrapped around a longitudinal axis of the elongate core. The charging coil of the charge head can be attached to a rotatable mount, which can be used to align the longitudinal axis of the charging coil of the charge head with longitudinal axis of the implantable device such that the axes of the charging coils are parallel. | 05-07-2015 |
20150142082 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS OF BIOFEEDBACK USING NERVE STIMULATION - Devices, systems and methods are disclosed that are used to treat a medical condition, by electrical stimulation of a nerve or nerve ganglion, used in conjunction with biofeedback. The system comprises a stimulator that applies electrical impulses sufficient to modulate a nerve at a target site within the patient. A sensor measures a physiological output from the patient, such as heart rate variability, and a property of the stimulation signal is varied based on the physiological output. | 05-21-2015 |
20150142083 | NEUROSTIMULATOR SYSTEM AND SIMULATION LEAD - In an embodiment, a neurostimulator system includes a pulse generator module and a power source and control module. The pulse generator module includes an electrical stimulation lead and electrodes and is configured to be implanted within a body of a subject, to provide a therapy to the subject, and to receive power wirelessly from a source remote from the pulse generator module. And the power source and control module is configured to be located external to the body of the subject, to cause the pulse generator module to affect the therapy, and to provide power wirelessly to the pulse generator module. | 05-21-2015 |
20150290465 | SLEEP DISORDERED BREATHING TREATMENT APPARATUS - Some embodiments of the disclosure may include a device for wirelessly powering an implant unit in a body of a subject from a location outside of the body of the subject, wherein the implant unit includes a secondary antenna for wirelessly receiving energy. The device may include a primary antenna configured to be located external to the body of the subject, a circuit electrically connected to the primary antenna, and at least one processor electrically connected to the primary antenna and the circuit. The at least one processor may determine a resonant frequency mismatch between a first resonant frequency associated with the primary antenna and a second resonant frequency associated with the secondary antenna associated with the implant unit; and apply an adjustment to at least one component of the circuit to cause a change in the first resonant frequency associated with the primary antenna and a reduction in the resonant frequency mismatch. | 10-15-2015 |
20150321017 | REMOTE RF POWER SYSTEM WITH LOW PROFILE TRANSMITTING ANTENNA - An antenna assembly includes: an antenna including: a metal signal layer having a radiating surface; and a feed port; and a waveguide surrounding the antenna and configured to guide electromagnetic energy transmitted from the radiating surface in a direction away from the antenna; and a controller module connected to the feed port and configured to drive the antenna to transmit electromagnetic energy from the radiating surface; wherein the antenna, waveguide, and controller module are configured such that, when the controller module drives the antenna, the transmitted electromagnetic energy matches a reception characteristic of an implantable device and is sufficient for the implantable device to create one or more electrical pulses of sufficient amplitude to stimulate neural tissue of a patient, solely using electromagnetic energy received from the antenna, when the implantable device is located at least 10 centimeters away from the antenna. | 11-12-2015 |
20150328469 | CHARGER FOR IMPLANT - A system for supplying energy to an implantable medical device when implanted in a patient's body can comprise an internal charger arranged to be implanted in the patient's body, the internal charger comprising a first coil. The system can further comprise an external charger arranged to wirelessly transmit energy to supply power to the internal charger, using a second coil. The system also comprises a wireless feedback system arranged to transmit feedback information from the internal charger to the external charger. The feedback information is based on information from at least one Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) transmitter. Hereby a user of the system can optimize the position of the external power supply in relation to the internal power supply based on the received feedback information. This in turn will result in a better and more robust energy transfer to the implanted medical device. | 11-19-2015 |
20150360037 | LEADS, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS USING EXTERNAL PRIMARY AND INTERNAL SECONDARY POWER SOURCES - An electrical stimulation system includes an implantable control module for implantation in a body of a patient and having an antenna, a secondary power source, and a processor coupled to the antenna and the secondary power source. The control module provides electrical stimulation current to an electrical stimulation lead for stimulation of patient tissue. The system also includes a primary power source to be worn or carried by the patient external to the body of the patient and to deliver power to the control module through the antenna. The control module preferentially utilizes power directly from the primary power source for the electrical stimulation current when the primary power source is available. The system can also include an electrical stimulation lead, a lead extension, or an external programming unit. | 12-17-2015 |
20160001084 | Electrical contacts on a medical device patch - A device for conveying power from a location external to a subject to a location within the subject may include a flexible carrier and an adhesive on a first side of the carrier. A coil of electrically conductive material may be associated with the flexible carrier. A mechanical connector may be associated with the carrier opposite the adhesive, wherein the mechanical connector is configured to retain a housing and permit the housing to rotate relative to the flexible carrier. At least one electrical portion may be associated with the carrier in a manner permitting electrical connection to be maintained between the flexible carrier and the housing as the housing is rotated. | 01-07-2016 |
20160008602 | CIRCUIT FOR AN IMPLANTABLE DEVICE | 01-14-2016 |
20160015987 | ULTRA-THIN IMPLANTABLE ENERGY SOURCE - The invention relates to an implantable energy source comprising at least one energy storage sub-system ( | 01-21-2016 |
20160023004 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR SUPPLYING ENERGY TO A MEDICAL DEVICE - In a method and apparatus for supplying wireless energy to a medical device ( | 01-28-2016 |
20160030754 | Automatic On-Off Charger for an Implantable Medical Device - An external charger for an implantable medical device is disclosed which can automatically detect an implant and generate a charging field. The technique uses circuitry typically present in an external charger, such as control circuitry, a Load Shift Keying (LSK) demodulator, and a coupling detector. An algorithm in the control circuitry periodically issues charging fields of short duration in a standby mode. If the coupling detector detects the presence of a conductive material, the algorithm issues a listening window during which a charging field is generated. If an LSK reply signal is received at the LSK demodulator, the external charger can charge the implant in a normal fashion. If a movement signature is detected at the LSK demodulator indicative of a predetermined user movement of the external charger, a charging field is issued for a set timing period, to at least partially charge the IPG battery to restore LSK communications. | 02-04-2016 |
20160059021 | Charging System for an Implantable Medical Device Employing Magnetic and Electric Fields - A base station for passively recharging a battery in an implant without patient involvement is disclosed. The base station can be hand held or may comprise equipment configured to be placed at a fixed location, such as under a bed, on or next to a wall, etc. The base station can generate electric and magnetic fields (E-field and B-field) that couple with an antenna and a receiving coil within the implant to generate a charging current for charging the implant's battery. No handling or manipulation on part of the patient is necessary; the implant battery is passively charged whenever the patient is within range of either the magnetic or electric charging fields generated by base station. Charging using the B-field occurs when the IPG is at a relatively short distance from the base station, while charging using the E-field occurs at longer distances. | 03-03-2016 |
20160072328 | METHOD OF IMPROVING BATTERY RECHARGE EFFICIENCY BY STATISTICAL ANALYSIS - A system and method for using statistical analysis of information obtained during a rechargeable battery charging session, wherein the method is for optimizing one or more parameters that are used for controlling the charging of a rechargeable battery during the charging session. | 03-10-2016 |
20160082272 | Photovoltaic Generation Device and System and Application Thereof to an Implantable Medical Device - A photovoltaic device including a CIGS photovoltaic module having a so-called top surface, intended to be exposed to light radiation; and a light emitting diode emitting light at a wavelength of less than 600 nm and transparent to radiation in the near infrared, attached to the top surface of the photovoltaic module. A photovoltaic generation system having: at least one such photovoltaic device; a system of switches to selectively connect the photovoltaic module to the light emitting diode or to a terminal supplying an external load; and a control circuit for controlling the system of switches. An electrical system having: such a photovoltaic generation system; a battery connected to the supply terminal; and at least one electronic circuit connected to the battery in order to be powered. An implantable medical device having such an electronic system. | 03-24-2016 |
20160101291 | APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR CHARGING AN IMPLANTED MEDICAL DEVICE POWER SOURCE - Apparatus and methods for charging an implanted medical device. | 04-14-2016 |
20160114173 | EXTERNAL CHARGER WITH ADJUSTABLE ALIGNMENT INDICATOR - Electrical energy is transcutaneously transmitted at a plurality of different frequencies to an implanted medical device. The magnitude of the transmitted electrical energy respectively measured at the plurality of frequencies. One of the frequencies is selected based on the measured magnitude of the electrical energy (e.g., the frequency at which the measured magnitude of the electrical energy is the greatest). A depth level at which the medical device is implanted within the patient is determined based on the selected frequency. For example, the depth level may be determined to be relatively shallow if the selected frequency is relatively high, and relatively deep if the selected frequency is relative low. A charge strength threshold at which a charge strength indicator generates a user-discernible signal can then be set based on the determined depth level. | 04-28-2016 |
20160114180 | ULTRATHIN MICROCHIP STRUCTURE - An ultrathin microchip structure at least includes a flexible base material. The flexible base material includes an installation surface and a printed surface at an upper surface and a lower surface thereof, respectively. The installation surface is provided with one set or multiple sets of integrated circuits. Each of the integrated circuits at least includes a chip and at least one set of transceiver antenna. One or both of the installation surface and the printed surface of the flexible base material is/are applied with a nanometer film layer having characteristics of being waterproof, dustproof, wear resistant, and penetrable by the RF signal, thereby effectively simplifying the present invention as an ultrathin microchip. | 04-28-2016 |
20160156282 | FIBROUS TRIBOELECTRIC GENERATOR AND ELECTRONIC STIMULATOR USING THE FIBROUS TRIBOELECTRIC GENERATOR AND CLOTHES USING THE ELECTRONIC STIMULATOR | 06-02-2016 |
20160166836 | ELECTRICAL STIMULATION SYSTEM WITH OPERATING ROOM CABLE/WOUND BANDAGE AND METHODS OF MAKING AND USING | 06-16-2016 |
20160166837 | BATTERY AND ELECTRONICS INTEGRATION IN AN IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE | 06-16-2016 |
20160193472 | Closed Loop Charger for an Implantable Medical Device System Employing Reflected Impedance Modulation | 07-07-2016 |
20160199657 | ATTACHMENT DEVICES AND ASSOCIATED METHODS OF USE WITH A NERVE STIMULATION CHARGING DEVICE | 07-14-2016 |
20160250475 | Rechargeable-Battery Implantable Medical Device Having a Primary Battery Active During a Rechargeable-Battery Undervoltage Condition | 09-01-2016 |
20160250484 | HINGED RESONANT POWER TRANSFER COIL | 09-01-2016 |
20160250485 | IMPLANT RECHARGER HANDSHAKING SYSTEM AND METHOD | 09-01-2016 |
20180021587 | IMPLANTABLE PULSE GENERATOR SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PROVIDING FUNCTIONAL AND/OR THERAPEUTIC STIMULATION OF MUSCLES AND/OR NERVES AND/OR CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM TISSUE | 01-25-2018 |