Implantable device with improved battery recharging and powering configuration
US6067474A · kind A · utility
Assignees
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 31, 1998 |
| Grant date | May 23, 2000 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 31, 2018 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02P70/50
- WIPO fieldElectrical machinery, apparatus, energy
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
An implantable system, such as a neural stimulator or a cochlear implant system, includes a rechargeable battery configuration having improved recharging and lifetime characteristics. The battery is housed within the implant's case and has first and second electrode plates. Each electrode plate has a plurality of slits that extend across a substantial portion of the plate's surface area. The slits in the electrode plates reduce the magnitude of eddy currents induced in the plates by external ac magnetic fields allowing faster battery recharging times. Alternatively, the electrode plates are wrapped in a spiral configuration such that, in the plane of the spiral, the electrode plates have a small cross-sectional area and no closed current loops. Additionally, the implant device may be housed in a case formed of a high-resistivity material and a circuit included in the implant device is configured to avoid large current loops that would result in eddy current heating. As a backup option, the circuitry of the implant device may optionally be powered from an external battery that inductively couples energy to the same coil that is used to charge the internal battery. In one embodiment,…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.