Abstract: An inductive power transfer system associated with an airway implant device is disclosed. A non-implanted portion of the system comprises a mouthpiece or retainer. The mouthpiece includes a power transfer circuit and a power source. The power transfer circuit includes a receive circuit configured to receive a first inductive power transfer from a charging device and to deliver a charging current to the power source. The power transfer circuit also includes a transmit circuit coupled to the power source. The transmit circuit is configured to provide a second inductive power transfer from the mouthpiece to the airway implant. Some embodiments of the non-implanted portion include a charge controller and a lithium polymer battery. Some embodiments of the charging device include a microcontroller for controlling operation of the charging device based on a proximity of the mouthpiece.

Abstract: An airway implant device for maintaining and/or creating an opening in air passageways is disclosed. Methods of using the device are also disclosed. The airway implant device comprises an actuator element to control the opening of an air passageway. Preferably the actuator element is an electroactive polymer element. Energizing of the electroactive polymer element provides support for the walls in order to prevent the collapse of an air passageway. Some embodiments of the invention include a sensor capable of sensing the possible occurrence of an apneic event and activating the actuator element of the airway implant device. Some embodiments include a housing designed to conform to the shape of the palate. Some embodiments include an attachment element to secure the device to tissue. Methods of treating airway disorders such as sleep apnea and snoring with the airway implant device are disclosed herein.