Energy Source External Of Generator Or Body Patents (Class 607/33)
  • Patent number: 7815563
    Abstract: A detecting system of the position and the posture of a capsule medical device includes a main body of the capsule medical device that is inserted in a living body, a coil in a capsule that is arranged to the main body of the capsule medical device and forms a resonant circuit, a magnetic field generating device that is arranged around the living body and generates the Alternating magnetic field for generating an induced magnetic field in the coil in the capsule, and a plurality of magnetic field detecting devices that detect the strength of the induced magnetic field generated by the coil in the capsule by the magnetic field generated by the magnetic field generating device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2010
    Assignee: Olympus Corporation
    Inventors: Isao Aoki, Akio Uchiyama, Kenichi Arai, Kazushi Ishiyama, Shin Yabukami
  • Publication number: 20100228308
    Abstract: Systems including an implantable receiver-stimulator and an implantable controller-transmitter are used for leadless electrical stimulation of body tissues. Cardiac pacing and arrhythmia control is accomplished with one or more implantable receiver-stimulators and an external or implantable controller-transmitter. Systems are implanted by testing external or implantable devices at different tissue sites, observing physiologic and device responses, and selecting sites with preferred performance for implanting the systems. In these systems, a controller-transmitter is activated at a remote tissue location to transmit/deliver acoustic energy through the body to a receiver-stimulator at a target tissue location. The receiver-stimulator converts the acoustic energy to electrical energy for electrical stimulation of the body tissue. The tissue locations(s) can be optimized by moving either or both of the controller-transmitter and the receiver-stimulator to determine the best patient and device responses.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 4, 2009
    Publication date: September 9, 2010
    Applicant: EBR Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark W. Cowan, Debra S. Echt, Richard E. Riley, Axel F. Brisken
  • Patent number: 7782190
    Abstract: A wireless communication method and protocol, and wireless devices and systems for stimulation, are provided for communication between a wireless device and a charging device. During active wireless charging, communications (data transmission) from the wireless device to the charging device occurs via pulse loading the receive antenna of the receiving device. Because switching regulation in the receiving device may interfere with the communications, the switching regulation is disabled during a communications window. To further reduce the likelihood of misinterpretation of signals detected in the charging device resulting from the switching regulation or noise, the data bit rate of the pulse loading communications is maintained higher than the switching regulation frequency.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2010
    Assignee: Advanced Neuromodulation Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Gregory R Martin, Gregg Turi, Marc Shanko, Rami Elghandour, Thomas Palma, William L Winstrom
  • Patent number: 7769466
    Abstract: A medical apparatus includes an extracorporeal power source that transmits electrical power via a radio frequency signal to a medical device implanted inside an animal. The extracorporeal power source has a Class-E amplifier with a choke and a semiconductor switch connected in series between a source of a supply voltage and circuit ground. An output node of the amplifier is formed between choke and the switch and connected to a transmitter antenna. A shunt capacitor couples the amplifier's output node to the circuit ground. Controlled operation of the switch produces bursts of the radio frequency signal that are pulse width modulated to control the amount of energy being sent to the implanted medical device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2010
    Assignee: Kenergy, Inc.
    Inventors: Stephen Denker, Cherik Bulkes, Arthur J. Beutler
  • Publication number: 20100160994
    Abstract: Aspects according to the present invention provide a method and implant suitable for implantation inside a human body that includes a power consuming means responsive to a physiological requirement of the human body, a power source and a power storage device. The power source comprises a sheathed piezoelectric assembly that is configured to generate an electrical current when flexed by the tissue of the body and communicate the generated current to the power storage device, which is electrically coupled to the power source and to the power consuming means.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 4, 2008
    Publication date: June 24, 2010
    Applicant: BOARD OF REGENTS, THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS SYSTEM
    Inventors: Marc D. Feldman, Shaochen Chen, Li-Hsin Han, Carlos A. Aguilar, Arturo A. Ayon, C. Mauli Agrawal, David M. Johnson, Devang N. Patel, Steven R. Bailey, Brian A. Korgel, Doh C. Lee
  • Patent number: 7736312
    Abstract: An acoustic monitoring system that is able to verify the success or failure of the positional adjustment of a valve without the need for additional energy during non-invasive reprogramming is provided. The acoustic monitoring system includes a programmer for generating a sequence of commands to adjust the valve mechanism, and for receiving acoustic signals for analysis, a transmitter to implement the command and adjust the valve, and a sensor for detecting an acoustic signal generated from the valve during execution of the commands. A method for using the acoustic monitoring system is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2010
    Assignee: Codman & Shurtleff, Inc.
    Inventors: Terri K. Taylor, Meir Rosenberg, Rainuka Gupta, Stephen Ferrer Wilson, Pierre S. Ostiguy, Bertil Romner, Alan J. Dextradeur
  • Publication number: 20100137936
    Abstract: An implantable medical device is configured so that all of the major components including a housing and attached leads are disposed within the vasculature of a patient. A tether extends from the housing of the device to an implant location where the tether is secured to tissue outside of the vasculature. In this manner, an intravascular medical device may be implanted at a location remote from final placement, delivered via the vasculature and anchored at the initial entry point.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2009
    Publication date: June 3, 2010
    Applicant: Medtronic, Inc.
    Inventors: Charles L. Dennis, George J. Klein, Ursula Gebhardt, Kenneth M. Anderson, Glenn C. Zillmer
  • Patent number: 7720547
    Abstract: A medical device adapted for implantation into a patient receives electrical power from an extracorporeal power supply. The medical device has a first receiver for a first wireless signal, a power circuit that extracts energy from the first wireless signal to power the medical device, and a feedback signal generator that transmits a second wireless signal indicating a magnitude of energy extracted from the first wireless signal. The extracorporeal power supply includes a source of electrical power and a power transmitter that emits the first wireless signal. A second receiver enables the extracorporeal power supply to receive the second wireless signal. A feedback controller manipulates the first wireless signal in response to the second wireless signal to ensure that sufficient electrical energy is provided to the medical device without wasting electrical power from the source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2010
    Assignee: Kenergy, Inc.
    Inventors: Stephen Denker, Cherik Bulkes, Arthur J. Beutler
  • Patent number: 7720546
    Abstract: Optimal power switching circuitry for use in a closed system such as a TET system including an internal device separated from an external device by a boundary. The internal and external devices being powered by separate power sources. During telemetric communication from the external device to the internal device an external RF energy source is produced. If the power supplied by the external RF energy source produced during communication from the external device to the internal device exceeds that required for powering of the internal device, then the power switching circuitry cuts off power to the internal power source and instead draws power from the external RF energy source thereby conserving power consumed from the internal power source. The power switching circuitry may be implemented using either passive components (e.g., diodes) or active components (e.g., an analog switch).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2010
    Assignee: Codman Neuro Sciences Sárl
    Inventors: Alec Ginggen, Rocco Crivelli
  • Publication number: 20100114216
    Abstract: A therapy or monitoring system may implement one or more techniques to mitigate interference between operation of a charging device that charges a first implantable medical device (IMD) implanted in a patient and a second IMD implanted in the patient. In some examples, the techniques may include modifying an operating parameter of the charging device in response to receiving an indication that a second IMD is implanted in the patient. The techniques also may include modifying an operating parameter of the second IMD in response to detecting the presence or operation of the charging device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 30, 2009
    Publication date: May 6, 2010
    Applicant: Medtronic, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul G. Krause, William T. Donofrio, Gerald P. Arne, James D. Reinke, David J. Peichel, Timothy Davis, John E. Burnes
  • Publication number: 20100114234
    Abstract: Techniques for controlling one or more modular circuits (“satellites”) that are intended for placement in a subject's body. The one or more satellites are controlled by sending signals over a bus that includes first and second conduction paths. Also coupled to the bus in system embodiments is a device such as a pacemaker that provides power and includes control circuitry. Each satellite includes satellite circuitry and one or more effectors that interact with the tissue. The satellite circuitry is coupled to the bus, and thus interfaces the controller to the one or more effectors, which may function as actuators, sensors, or both. The effectors may be electrodes that are used to introduce analog electrical signals (e.g., one or more pacing pulses) into the tissue in the local areas where the electrodes are positioned (e.g., heart muscles) or to sense analog signals (e.g., a propagating depolarization signal) within the tissue.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 23, 2009
    Publication date: May 6, 2010
    Applicant: Proteus Biomedical, Inc.
    Inventor: Mark J. Zdeblick
  • Patent number: 7711435
    Abstract: A storable implantable medical device assembly. An implantable medical device has a secondary coil operatively coupled to therapeutic componentry. A container holds the implantable medical device, the container having a first face. The implantable medical device being arranged in the container such that the secondary coil is positioned within a distance of the first face. The distance allows charging of the implantable medical device without disturbing the container. The first face of the container having indicia representative of a lateral location on the first face aligned with the secondary coil of the implantable medical device. The may then be utilized to place an external antenna in order to charge the implantable medical device without disturbing the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2010
    Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.
    Inventor: Mark E Schommer
  • Patent number: 7682745
    Abstract: A medical device includes a rechargeable lithium-ion battery for providing power to the medical device. The lithium-ion battery includes a positive electrode comprising a current collector and an active material comprising a material selected from the group consisting of LiCoO2, LiMn2O4, LiNixCoyNi(1?x?y)O2, LiAlxCoyNi(1?x?y)O2, LiTixCoyNi(1?x?y)O2, and combinations thereof. The lithium-ion battery also includes a negative electrode having a current collector and an active material including a lithium titanate material. The current collector of the negative electrode includes a material selected from the group consisting of aluminum, titanium, and silver. The battery is configured for cycling to near-zero-voltage conditions without a substantial loss of battery capacity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2010
    Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.
    Inventors: William G. Howard, Craig L. Schmidt, Erik R. Scott
  • Publication number: 20100069992
    Abstract: 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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 23, 2009
    Publication date: March 18, 2010
    Applicant: Boston Scientific Neuromodulation Corporation
    Inventors: Daniel Aghassian, Jordi Parramon, Joey Chen
  • Patent number: 7672732
    Abstract: An apparatus for powering an implant includes first energy interface elements, a removeably attachable holding device and a first energy source, such as a battery. An energy conversion circuit converts first energy into second energy which is transmitted within the body of the patient to the implant. Also, an apparatus for providing information to an implant that includes first energy interface elements and a housing that includes a processor operatively coupled to the first energy interface elements and an energy source operatively coupled to the processor. The processor is structured to generate an information signal and cause the signal to be transmitted within the body of the patient for delivery to the implant. Associated methods are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2010
    Assignee: University of Pittsburgh - Of the Commonwealth System of Higher Education
    Inventors: Mingui Sun, Robert J. Sclabassi, Daliang L. Li, Jun Zhao, Steven Hackworth
  • Publication number: 20100049269
    Abstract: 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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 3, 2009
    Publication date: February 25, 2010
    Inventors: Binh C. Tran, Robert S. Harguth, Bin Mi, Keith R. Maile
  • Patent number: 7660620
    Abstract: The invention is directed to techniques in which magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is coordinated with the operation of an implantable medical device (IMD). By using an IMD to sense conditions, MRI can be improved because the sensed conditions can accurately define timing for application of electromagnetic radiation bursts. Moreover, by applying stimulation pulses specifically to coordinate the electromagnetic radiation bursts, the MRI may also be improved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2010
    Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.
    Inventors: Volkert A. Zeijlemaker, Steven D. Goedeke
  • Patent number: 7650187
    Abstract: An assembly for wireless energy communication to an implanted device comprises an external belt (7) accommodating a wearer control (1) followed by controller (2), a battery pack (4), an inverter (3), a transmission coil (8) connected in parallel by a plurality of capacitors, and an infrared transceiver 9. Provided furthermore is an implanted device comprising a receiver coil (11) having the same dimensions as the transmission coil (8), a rectifier following said receiver coil (11), an infrared transceiver (10) followed by a controller and an sensor assembly (17) assigned thereto as well as a battery pack (16) for powering said implanted device via an energy manager (14).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 19, 2010
    Assignee: Deutsches Zentrum für Luft-und Raumfahrt e.V.
    Inventors: Robin Gruber, Thomas Schmid
  • Publication number: 20090326601
    Abstract: 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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 4, 2009
    Publication date: December 31, 2009
    Applicant: EBR Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Axel F. Brisken, Mark W. Cowan, Debra S. Echt, Richard E. Riley
  • Publication number: 20090326597
    Abstract: An implantable medical device includes a solar cell configured to provide energy to recharge a power source such as a battery. The power source is coupled to a control circuit of the medical device and provides power to the circuit. The solar cell may be coupled to the power source via a wire and may be distanced from a housing of the medical device. The solar cell may also be attached to the housing or may be disposed in the housing. The medical device may be implanted in the body of a host such that a surface of the solar cell is provided under a layer of skin of the host. The translucent property of skin allows the solar cell to receive light or infrared radiation from outside the body. The solar cell converts the received energy and provides the converted energy to the power source for recharging.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 23, 2009
    Publication date: December 31, 2009
    Applicant: IXYS Corporation
    Inventor: Nathan Zommer
  • Patent number: 7623827
    Abstract: A transmission circuit for an RF inductive link, particularly for an implanted device such as a cochlear implant. In a preferred form, the transmission circuit 1 includes a transmitter coil 24 and a damping device, including an auxiliary coil 4 and switch 6. The switch is operated to close the coil circuit when data zeros are transmitted. This has the advantage of improving modulation depth without placing stress on the RF driver output switches.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2009
    Assignee: Cochlear Limited
    Inventor: Ibrahim Ibrahim
  • Patent number: 7610092
    Abstract: Systems including an implantable receiver-stimulator and an implantable controller-transmitter are used for leadless electrical stimulation of body tissues. Cardiac pacing and arrhythmia control is accomplished with one or more implantable receiver-stimulators and an external or implantable controller-transmitter. Systems are implanted by testing external or implantable devices at different tissue sites, observing physiologic and device responses, and selecting sites with preferred performance for implanting the systems. In these systems, a controller-transmitter is activated at a remote tissue location to transmit/deliver acoustic energy through the body to a receiver-stimulator at a target tissue location. The receiver-stimulator converts the acoustic energy to electrical energy for electrical stimulation of the body tissue. The tissue locations(s) can be optimized by moving either or both of the controller-transmitter and the receiver-stimulator to determine the best patient and device responses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 27, 2009
    Assignee: EBR Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark W. Cowan, Debra S. Echt, Richard E. Riley, Axel F. Brisken
  • Patent number: 7606621
    Abstract: 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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 20, 2009
    Assignee: EBR Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Axel F. Brisken, Mark W. Cowan, Debra S. Echt, Richard E. Riley
  • Publication number: 20090259273
    Abstract: Techniques for using telemetry signal strength for positioning a primary recharge coil of a recharging unit at a location proximate to an Implantable Medical Device (IMD) in preparation to recharge a rechargeable power source of the IMD are disclosed. An antenna of the recharging unit is positioned proximate to the IMD, a telemetry session is initiated between the two devices, and a value indicative of the telemetry signal strength is obtained. Using a known correspondence between telemetry signal strength and recharge coupling efficiency for the IMD/recharging unit pair, the telemetry signal strength value is used to determine whether adequate recharge coupling may be achieved between the pair of devices. If so, a recharge session may be established. Otherwise, the antenna is repositioned and the process is repeated. The correspondence between telemetry signal strength and recharge coupling efficiency for the device pair may be developed empirically or using modeling.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 10, 2008
    Publication date: October 15, 2009
    Applicant: Medtronic, Inc.
    Inventors: Giselle Suraya Figueiredo, John W. Forsberg, Jeffrey T. Keacher, Alex C. Toy, Erik G. Widman
  • Publication number: 20090248106
    Abstract: Optical-based wireless systems for electrophysiological stimulation are provided. One or more small implantable devices, referred to as trigger pods, receives infrared light transmitted from an optical transmitter and converts the light into electrical energy, which is then used to generate electrical impulses. The impulses are used for biomedical applications, such as cardiac pacing and neurostimulation for pain relief. Because the trigger pods are battery-less and rely solely on the incident optical signals for power, they can be highly miniaturized for ease of deployment into the body of a patient. The optical signals can also be used for data/signal transmission in addition to power transmission for greater control of the electrical stimulation. Systems having optical fibers and implantable transmitters are also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 24, 2009
    Publication date: October 1, 2009
    Inventor: Michael D. Black
  • Publication number: 20090216292
    Abstract: In some embodiments, the power generator for converting mechanical energy to electrical energy is described 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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 25, 2009
    Publication date: August 27, 2009
    Inventors: Benjamin David Pless, Carl Lance Boling, Barbara Gibb, Adolf van der Heide, Brett M. Wingeier
  • Publication number: 20090204170
    Abstract: A wireless electrostimulation system can comprise a wireless energy transmission source, and an implantable cardiovascular wireless electrostimulation node. A receiver circuit comprising an inductive antenna can be configured to capture magnetic energy to generate a tissue electrostimulation. A tissue electrostimulation circuit, coupled to the receiver circuit, can be configured to deliver energy captured by the receiver circuit as a tissue electrostimulation waveform. Delivery of tissue electrostimulation can be initiated by a therapy control unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 29, 2009
    Publication date: August 13, 2009
    Applicant: Cardiac Pacemakers, Inc.
    Inventors: Roger Hastings, John A. Becker, Michael J. Pikus, Daniel M. Lafontaine, Kevin D. Edmunds
  • Patent number: 7570994
    Abstract: Defibrillator assemblies and methods to wirelessly transfer energy from an external source to a battery or other rechargeable power source within the defibrillator assembly. The transfer of energy may be through a non-contact interface on a defibrillator cradle or a docking station that mounts the defibrillator. The rate of energy transfer may be equal to the energy drain caused by self-discharge and automated self-testing. Accordingly, since the rate of energy transfer is lower than that required to run the defibrillator system continuously, several wireless methods of energy transfer may be used. In addition, the defibrillator assembly may communicate diagnostic and non-diagnostic data to the external source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 4, 2009
    Assignee: Medtronic Physio-Control Corp.
    Inventors: Paul S. Tamura, Daniel Yerkovich, Patrick F. Kelly, Richard Nova, Joseph Bradley Williamson, Stephen B. Johnson, Gary DeBardi
  • Patent number: 7532933
    Abstract: Various configurations of systems that employ leadless electrodes to provide pacing therapy are provided. In one example, a system that provides multiple sites for pacing of myocardium of a heart includes wireless pacing electrodes that are implantable at sites proximate the myocardium using a percutaneous, transluminal, catheter delivery system. Each of the electrodes contains a source of electrical energy for pacing the myocardium and is adapted to receive electromagnetic energy from a source outside the myocardium. The system also includes a source adapted for placement outside the myocardium and that uses locally measured electrocardiograms to synchronize pacing of the heart by sending electromagnetic commands to the electrodes to pace the myocardium surrounding the electrodes. Also disclosed is various configurations of such systems, wireless electrode assemblies, and delivery catheters for delivering and implanting the electrode assemblies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2009
    Assignee: Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc.
    Inventors: Roger N. Hastings, William J. Drasler, Daniel M. Lafontaine, Anupama Sadasiva, Scott R. Smith
  • Patent number: 7519421
    Abstract: An abnormally rapid ventricular cardiac rate that results from atrial fibrillation can be reduced by stimulating a vagal nerve of the heart. An apparatus for such stimulation includes a power transmitter that emits a radio frequency signal. A stimulator, implanted in a blood vessel adjacent the vagal nerve, has a pair of electrodes and an electrical circuit thereon. The electrical circuit receives the radio frequency signal and derives an electrical voltage from the energy of that signal. The electrical voltage is applied in the form of pulses to the pair of electrodes, thereby stimulating the vagal nerve. The pattern of that stimulating pulses can be varied in response to characteristics of the atrial fibrillation or the ventricular contractions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2009
    Assignee: Kenergy, Inc.
    Inventors: Stephen Denker, Cherik Bulkes, Arthur J. Beutler
  • Patent number: 7471986
    Abstract: Systems and methods for automatically powering and communicating with an implantable medical device through an inductive link are disclosed. A preferred embodiment comprises an inductive coil or set of such coils. One coil may be mounted or installed on or near the bed of a patient as a component of a transmission module. Another coil may a component of an implantable medical device. The coils are energized by a resonant circuit to generate an electromagnetic field in the vicinity of the bedside. Without any action on the patient's part, the implantable device receives the inductively transmitted energy to power its immediate operation or recharge its battery, thereby extending its longevity, potentially indefinitely. The inductive link also enables data transfer communication between the transmission module and implantable device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Assignee: Cardiac Pacemakers, Inc.
    Inventor: John D. Hatlestad
  • Publication number: 20080269828
    Abstract: The present invention refers to a device used to recharge the battery of electronic cardiac implants, like implanted pacemakers and defibrillators. It can be used to recharge the battery after an emergency requirement, such as: defibrillation or in diagnosis and or reprogramming of implants, during which no energy is demanded from the internal battery, seeing that the energy feed becomes guaranteed (accepted) by the proposed device. The invention is composed by three essential components: a generator (A), a transmitter unit (B) and a receptor coil (C). The generator is destined to produce an energy signal with determined amplitude and frequency and that is carried across through a coaxial cable to the transmitter unit (B). The emitted magnetic field is captured by the receptor coil (C) that is implanted inside the human body, generating a voltage with the absence of the Gibbs phenomenon.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 25, 2006
    Publication date: October 30, 2008
    Inventor: Antonio Manuel Sequeira Abreu
  • Patent number: 7437644
    Abstract: A closed system such as a TET system in which self-testing of all components of the implantable medical device whose malfunction could negatively impact on the proper operation of the closed system is automatically and periodically performed without triggering from an external device. In addition, a closed system including automatic, periodic self-testing of the implantable medical device in which, whenever practical, testing of the components is synchronized with telemetric communication of the external device whereby an external RF field generated by the external device is used to supply necessary power to perform self-testing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2008
    Assignee: Codman Neuro Sciences Sárl
    Inventors: Alec Ginggen, Rocco Crivelli
  • Patent number: 7428438
    Abstract: An exemplary system for providing power to a rechargeable battery in an implantable stimulator includes a first coil configured to emit a first magnetic field, a coil in the stimulator configured to receive the first magnetic field, and a zero volt recovery (ZVR) circuit in the stimulator configured to use the first magnetic field to cause the coil in the stimulator to be tuned to a frequency of a second magnetic field. The second magnetic field is used to provide the power to recharge the battery. An exemplary method of providing power to recharge a battery in an implantable stimulator includes transmitting a first magnetic field used to provide the power to recharge the battery, transmitting a second magnetic field; and using the second magnetic field to cause a coil in the stimulator to be tuned to a frequency of the first magnetic field.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2008
    Assignee: Boston Scientific Neuromodulation Corporation
    Inventors: Jordi Parramon, Goran N. Marnfeldt, Rafael Carbunaru, Robert D. Ozawa
  • Publication number: 20080208293
    Abstract: 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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 8, 2008
    Publication date: August 28, 2008
    Applicant: BOSTON SCIENTIFIC NEUROMODULATION CORPORATION
    Inventors: Jordi Parramon, Matthew I. Haller
  • Patent number: 7386347
    Abstract: An electric stimulator for alpha-wave derivation is characterized in that frequency selected from a range of 1 Hz to 50 Hz, preferably, 7 Hz to 14 Hz, and an output voltage are applied to auricle of a patient's ears to derive alpha-waves, and that cycle and intensity of stimulation are varied depending upon body temperature and blood sugar. Prompt reaction may be obtained by directly applying the voltage to the ears, and the reaction may continue when stimulation is extended. In addition, it is suitable to treat various diseases having common cause due to stress or arousal reaction in the human body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2008
    Inventors: Jong-Pil Chung, Sung-Min Kang, Ye-Won Kim, Chong-Hyun Lee
  • Patent number: 7379775
    Abstract: 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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2008
    Assignee: Boston Scientific Neuromodulation Corporation
    Inventors: Jordi Parramon, Matthew I. Haller
  • Publication number: 20080103556
    Abstract: A housing for an implantable medical device includes a first portion formed from a first material and a second portion formed from a second material. The first material and the second material comprise titanium and the first material has a higher resistivity than the second material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2006
    Publication date: May 1, 2008
    Inventors: Bernard Q. Li, John J. Grevious, Timothy J. Davis, Leroy Perz, Chris J. Paidosh
  • Patent number: 7349741
    Abstract: A cochlear implant sound processor is powered by a rechargeable battery that is permanently integrated into the sound processor. The sound processor contains an inductive coil that may be tuned to an external charging coil for battery recharging. The electronic circuits and coil of the sound processor are housed in a material transparent to RF signals. The sound processor may be placed in a recharging base station in which the sound processor is positioned in a space surrounded by the inductive charging coil embedded in a material transparent to RF signals. The inductive charging coil sends power to the coil inside the processor and thereby recharges the battery. An alternative embodiment utilizes contacts in the sound processor case and aligned terminals in the recharging base station that allow direct charging of the battery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2008
    Assignee: Advanced Bionics, LLC
    Inventors: Albert A Maltan, David Miller, William V Harrison
  • Patent number: 7337002
    Abstract: An implantable medical electronic tissue stimulating device is formed of two hermetically sealed, fluid impervious housings, one containing an electronic pulse generator and the other a battery power supply. The two are adapted to be mechanically and electrically coupled together through a coupler/connector whereby current from the battery in one sealed housing is fed to the electronic pulse generator in the other sealed housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2008
    Assignee: Cardiac Pacemakers, Inc.
    Inventors: Leonard J. Gramse, Robert J. Hanowski
  • Publication number: 20080027500
    Abstract: An external charger for an implantable medical device, comprises a housing, an alternating current (AC) coil and substrate contained within the housing, and one or more electronic components mounted to the substrate. The AC coil is configured for wirelessly transmitting magnetic charging energy to the implantable medical device. The AC coil is disposed in a first plane, with the magnetic charging energy having a field directed perpendicular to the first plane. At least a portion of the substrate has a surface extending along a second plane that is substantially perpendicular to the first plane.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 28, 2006
    Publication date: January 31, 2008
    Applicant: Advanced Bionics Corporation
    Inventor: Joey Chen
  • Patent number: 7310556
    Abstract: An implantable device electrically stimulates an organ of an animal in response to a trigger event. Between trigger event that device receives a wireless signal, such as a radio frequency signal, and stores energy from the signal in a plurality of capacitors. The capacitors are located within a electrical lead that extends to a stimulation electrode attached to the organ. That electrical lead has a hollow outer insulating tube with a pair of conductors extending longitudinally therein. The plurality of capacitors are connected between the pair of conductors. Thus the electrical lead serves as both a conductor of a stimulation current to the electrode and a housing for the plurality of capacitors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2007
    Assignee: Kenergy, Inc.
    Inventor: Cherik Bulkes
  • Patent number: 7308316
    Abstract: A storable implantable medical device assembly. An implantable medical device has a secondary coil operatively coupled to therapeutic componentry. A container holds the implantable medical device, the container having a first face. The implantable medical device being arranged in the container such that the secondary coil is positioned within a distance of the first face. The distance allows charging of the implantable medical device without disturbing the container. The first face of the container having indicia representative of a lateral location on the first face aligned with the secondary coil of the implantable medical device. The may then be utilized to place an external antenna in order to charge the implantable medical device without disturbing the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2007
    Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.
    Inventor: Mark E. Schommer
  • Publication number: 20070282383
    Abstract: It is necessary to periodically replace a cell of an implantable-type cardiac pacemaker device, which causes suffering to a patient as often as a cell is replaced. Thus, it is an object of the present invention to dispense with cell replacement of the cardiac pacemaker device. A cardiac pacemaker device of the present invention has an antenna and a battery built-in, and an electric power is transmitted to the built-in antenna from outside a body by an electromagnetic wave to store the electric power in the battery. With the use of the electric power stored in the battery, a main body of the pacemaker device can operate. If necessary, the electric power can be supplied wirelessly from outside and a surgery for exchanging a cell becomes unnecessary; therefore, a patient's suffering can be relieved.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 17, 2007
    Publication date: December 6, 2007
    Applicant: Semiconductor Energy Laboratory Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Jun Koyama
  • Patent number: 7283874
    Abstract: An implantable stimulation system comprises an implantable stimulator and a control device. The control device is configured to transmit acoustic waves to the implantable stimulator, and the implantable stimulator is configured to transform the acoustic waves into electrical current, and generate stimulation energy based on the electrical current. For example, the electrical current can be transformed into electrical energy that can be used to generate the stimulation energy. Or the electrical current can contain signals used to directly or indirectly control the generation of the stimulation energy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2007
    Assignee: Remon Medical Technologies Ltd.
    Inventor: Avi Penner
  • Patent number: 7272445
    Abstract: In general, the invention is directed to a patient programmer for an implantable medical device. The patient programmer may include one or more of a variety of features that may enhance performance, support mobility and compactness, or promote patient convenience.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2007
    Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.
    Inventors: William C. Phillips, Mark E. Schommer, John W. Forsberg, Alex C. Toy, David P. Olson
  • Patent number: 7254449
    Abstract: Systems and methods for providing a power signal to one or more implantable devices include a number of dynamic range amplifiers each having a multiplicity of output drivers. Each of the output drivers is configured to generate an output signal. The systems and methods further include control circuitry configured to select at least one of the amplifiers to provide a number of output signals used to generate the power signal that is to be provided to the one or more implantable devices. The control circuitry is further configured to disable the output drivers corresponding to a remaining number of amplifiers. A matching circuit is configured to generate the power signal based on the output signals provided by the at least one selected amplifier. The systems and methods further include means to transmit the power signal to the one or more implantable devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2007
    Inventor: Rankiri Tissa Karunasiri
  • Patent number: 7248926
    Abstract: A status indicator is provided for use with a medical device that employs a power transmitting coil. In one embodiment, the status indicator comprises a receiving coil and feedback element. The feedback element, such as a light emitting diode (LED) or liquid crystal display (LCD), is electrically coupled to the receiving coil. In another embodiment a status indicator is incorporated into the medical device, which status indicator comprises a feedback element and electronic circuitry for detecting device function and program selection. The circuitry and feedback element are incorporated into the medical device such as on the earhook of a behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2007
    Assignee: Advanced Bionics Corporation
    Inventors: Carla Mann Woods, Michael A Faltys, Lee F Hartley
  • Patent number: 7225032
    Abstract: External power source, charger, system and method for transcutaneous energy transfer. An implantable medical device has a first housing having operational componentry for providing the therapeutic output. A secondary housing is mechanically coupled to the first housing having a secondary coil operatively coupled to the componentry, the secondary coil capable of receiving energy from the external source. A magnetically shielding material is positioned between the secondary coil and the first housing. An external power source has an external housing. A primary coil carried in the external housing, the primary coil being capable of inductively energizing the secondary coil when the housing is externally placed in proximity of the secondary coil with a first surface of the housing positioned closest to the secondary coil, the first surface of the housing being thermally conductive surface. An energy absorptive material carried within the external housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2007
    Assignee: Medtronic Inc.
    Inventors: Andrew L. Schmeling, William C. Phillips, David P. Olson, Oscar Jimenez
  • Patent number: 7212110
    Abstract: A wireless communication method and protocol, and wireless devices and systems for stimulation, are provided for communication between a wireless device and a charging device. During active wireless charging, communications (data transmission) from the wireless device to the charging device occurs via pulse loading the receive antenna of the receiving device. Because switching regulation in the receiving device may interfere with the communications, the switching regulation is disabled during a communications window. To further reduce the likelihood of misinterpretation of signals detected in the charging device resulting from the switching regulation or noise, the data bit rate of the pulse loading communications is maintained higher than the switching regulation frequency.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2007
    Assignee: Advanced Neuromodulation Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Gregory R. Martin, Gregg Turi, Marc Shanko, Rami Elghandour, Thomas Palma, William L. Winstrom