HK1217307B - Wireless implantable power receiver system and methods - Google Patents

Description

Wireless implantable power receiver systems and methods

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/786,069, filed on March 14, 2013. The foregoing U.S. Provisional Application is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

Background Art

Various devices are used in vivo for a variety of therapeutic applications. For example, devices can be used to deliver stimulation signals, record vital signs, perform pacing or defibrillation procedures, record action potential activity from target tissue, control drug release from time-release capsules or drug pump units, or interact with the auditory system to assist hearing. Typically, a subcutaneous battery-powered implantable pulse generator (IPG) or other charge storage mechanism is used to provide power to the device.

However, once the battery or charge storage element is no longer able to retain a charge, the device utilizing the battery or other charge storage element will no longer function. Thus, for an implanted device, the patient will need to undergo a subsequent surgical procedure to obtain a replacement device. Furthermore, rechargeable IPGs are typically unable to administer therapy while the unit is being charged.

By utilizing the technology contained within the implantable wireless power receiver, which does not rely on batteries or other charge storage devices to operate, the lifespan of the implanted device is no longer limited by the lifespan of the battery or its ability to store charge. Furthermore, the technology facilitates a smaller form factor, which makes the surgical procedure for placing the device more minimally invasive and helps reduce scarring due to the reduced amount of body tissue in contact with the implanted device.

Summary of the Invention

One embodiment of the present disclosure relates to a wireless implantable power receiver for use with a medical stimulation or monitoring device. The wireless implantable power receiver includes one or more inductorless antennas and electronic circuitry. The one or more inductorless antennas are configured to receive radiated energy, and the electronic circuitry is configured to convert the radiated energy received by the one or more inductorless antennas into a DC power source, thereby providing power to the medical stimulation or monitoring device. The DC power source operatively powers the medical stimulation or monitoring device, eliminating the need for battery power or wired power from another power source. In one embodiment, the electronic circuitry configured to generate the DC power further includes a rectifier circuit and a smoothing circuit. The rectifier circuit and the smoothing circuit may be passive and include one or more diodes. The smoothing circuit may also include one or more resistors and one or more capacitors. The electronic circuitry may provide up to 10 volts of DC power to the medical stimulation or monitoring device. The wireless implantable power receiver may be physically integrated within the housing of the medical stimulation or monitoring device. The electronic circuitry may deliver power to multiple sensors of the medical stimulation or monitoring device.

Another embodiment of the present disclosure relates to a wireless implantable power receiver for a medical stimulation or monitoring device. The receiver includes one or more non-inductor antennas configured to receive radiated energy. The receiver also includes electronic circuitry configured to convert the radiated energy received by the one or more non-inductor antennas. The radiated energy can be converted into one of the following: a DC power source to provide power to the medical stimulation or monitoring device; a signal to provide parameter settings to the medical stimulation and monitoring device; a waveform to provide a stimulation signal to tissue; or any combination thereof. The conversion of the energy received by the one or more non-inductor antennas can provide a primary source of power to the medical stimulation or monitoring device. The receiver can be enclosed in a housing shared by the medical stimulation and monitoring devices. The outer diameter of the receiver can be smaller than the inner diameter of a 14-gauge cannula or syringe. The receiver can include conditioning circuitry configured to condition the received energy. At least one of the non-inductor antennas can include a conductive trace on one of the circuits. At least one of the non-inductor antennas can be fabricated as a wire connected to one of the circuits. The one or more non-inductor antennas can have a length ranging from approximately 100 microns to approximately 10 centimeters. The one or more non-inductor antennas can have a thickness ranging from approximately 20 microns to approximately 3 millimeters. The one or more non-inductive antennas receive frequencies from about 300 MHz to about 8 GHz. The parameter settings assigned to the device may include frequency, amplitude, and duration parameters. The receiver may also include electronic circuitry that transmits the signals recorded by the device to a remote system for storage or processing. The remote system may process the signals transmitted by the receiver to generate parameter signals, tissue stimulation signals, or both, which are transmitted to the implantable power receiver for distribution to the elements of the device. A system comprising a plurality of wireless implantable power receivers can generate a power supply greater than 10 volts DC power, wherein the individual wireless implantable power receivers are arranged in series relative to each other.

Another embodiment of the present disclosure relates to a system for use with a medical device. The system includes one or more medical stimulation or monitoring devices. The system also includes one or more non-inductive antennas configured to receive radiated energy. The system also includes electronic circuitry configured to convert the radiated energy received by the one or more non-inductive antennas into: (i) a DC power source to provide power to the one or more medical stimulation or monitoring devices; (ii) a signal to provide parameter settings to the one or more medical stimulation and monitoring devices; (iii) a waveform to provide a stimulation signal to the tissue via a conductor implanted near the tissue; or (iv) any combination thereof. The one or more medical stimulation or monitoring devices are selected from the group consisting of: (a) a glucose monitor; (b) a cardiac device for monitoring, pacing, or defibrillation; (c) one or more internal sensors for measuring vital signs; (d) one or more external sensors for measuring electrical activity, such as an EEG sensor or ECG sensor; (e) a microwire that measures action potential activity; (f) a timed-release capsule or drug-releasing device; (g) a cochlear lead; and (h) a deep brain stimulation device.

Another embodiment relates to a medical device system. The medical device system includes a medical stimulation or monitoring device and a wireless implantable power receiver. The wireless implantable power receiver includes one or more non-inductor antennas and an electronic circuit. The one or more non-inductor antennas are configured to receive radiated energy. The electronic circuit is configured to convert the radiated energy received by the one or more non-inductor antennas into a DC power source to provide power to the medical stimulation or monitoring device. The medical stimulation or monitoring device may not include one or more electrodes configured to apply one or more electrical pulses to neural tissue associated with the spine. The electronic circuit configured to generate the DC power source may also include a rectifier circuit and a smoothing circuit. The rectifier circuit and the smoothing circuit may be passive. The rectifier circuit may also include one or more diodes. The smoothing circuit may also include one or more resistors and one or more capacitors. The wireless implantable power receiver may be configured to provide DC power up to 10 volts. The wireless implantable power receiver may be physically integrated within the body of the medical stimulation or monitoring device. The wireless implantable power receiver may be tethered to the medical stimulation or monitoring device via one or more wires. The wireless implantable power receiver may provide power to multiple sensors within the medical stimulation or monitoring device.

Another embodiment of the present disclosure relates to a method for delivering an electrical signal to power a medical stimulation or monitoring device. The method includes encapsulating an implantable wireless power receiver within the medical stimulation or monitoring device, implanting the receiver and the medical stimulation or monitoring device within tissue, receiving radiated energy and converting it into a DC power source for distribution to the medical stimulation or monitoring device, and operating the medical stimulation or monitoring device without receiving power from a source other than the DC power source. The receiving step can be accomplished using an inductorless antenna. Power can be provided to the medical stimulation or monitoring device without receiving power from a battery for the medical stimulation or monitoring device and without receiving power from a battery in the receiver. The method can also include using radiated energy received by one or more inductorless antennas, converting the radiated energy using electronic circuitry into a parameter input for distribution to the device, and delivering the parameter input to the device. The parameter can have at least three different possible values. The method can also include receiving radiated energy from one or more inductorless antennas, converting the radiated energy using electronic circuitry into an electrical waveform suitable for tissue simulation, and delivering the waveform to the device for distribution to the tissue and stimulating the tissue.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates an implantable power receiver system for supplying power to stimulation electrodes or recording electrodes according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 2A illustrates an example of internal circuitry for an implantable power receiver system to generate DC power, according to an exemplary embodiment.

2B illustrates an example of internal circuitry for an implantable power receiver system to communicate with a device, according to an exemplary embodiment.

2C illustrates another example of internal circuitry for an implantable power receiver system to communicate with a device, according to an exemplary embodiment.

3 illustrates an implantable power receiver system connected to an implantable glucose monitoring device, according to an exemplary embodiment.

4 illustrates an implantable power receiving system placed within the heart via a catheter advanced through an artery for recording vital signs, according to an exemplary embodiment.

5 illustrates a small EEG pad including an implantable power receiver system placed on the surface of the head or implanted under the skin, according to an exemplary embodiment.

6 illustrates a fine lead powered by an implantable power receiver system to record action potential activity from target tissue, according to an exemplary embodiment.

7 illustrates an implantable power receiver system placed at an in vivo location beneath the skin for providing energy to activate tissue, for powering an implanted sensor, or for controlling drug release from an implanted time-release capsule, according to an exemplary embodiment.

8 illustrates an implantable power receiver system that is externally placed on tissue of the body and remotely powered to provide stimulation signals or power to other sensing units, according to an exemplary embodiment.

9 illustrates an implantable power receiver system tethered to a drug pump unit for powering the release of drug, according to an exemplary embodiment.

10 illustrates an implantable power receiver system tethered to a cochlear lead to power a hearing aid device without an implanted battery, according to an exemplary embodiment.

11 shows an implantable power receiver system tethered to a screw lead structure for brain stimulation, according to an exemplary embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The systems, methods, and devices described in this application relate to sending and modulating energy and signals into and through a wireless power receiver that is completely contained within the body of an implantable device. The wireless implantable power receiver may include one or more non-inductive antennas for receiving wireless or radiated energy from a remote source. The wireless implantable power receiver may also include one or more electronic circuits for utilizing the wireless energy and converting the energy into power that is routed to other elements of the device that provide therapeutic functions or monitoring. The wireless implantable power receiver (referred to herein as a "receiver") can be used to power medical devices (e.g., implantable medical stimulation and/or monitoring devices, including devices that provide neural stimulation functions, pacing, identification, telemetry, sensing, or other body monitoring functions, etc.).

Embodiments of the present invention include systems for providing power in a form factor that is capable of being fully contained within the device and, when applicable, with parameter information embedded in one or more analog waveforms. Such systems can also be easily placed within tissue or reside in close contact with target tissue. Furthermore, such systems can reside in locations where electrical signals from electrical radiation coupling are adequately received by the system at various tissue depths. Such systems are preferably wireless and do not use cables or inductive coupling to power the implantable power receiver. Such systems may not use, include, or rely on wired connectors or connector pads (e.g., to provide a physical electrical connection, to provide proximity inductive coupling, etc.).

One embodiment relates to a wireless implantable power receiver comprising one or more inductorless antennas and electronic circuitry. The one or more inductorless antennas are configured to receive radiated energy. The electronic circuitry is configured to convert the radiated energy received by the one or more inductorless antennas into a DC power source to provide power to the device. The medical device may not include a connector for receiving wires or for receiving power from a source other than a DC power source. In some embodiments, the power provided by the DC power source based on the received radiated energy is sufficient to power the medical device without the need for additional power. In an exemplary embodiment, the medical device does not include a long-term battery for energy storage, but instead uses energy received "in real time" at the antenna to power the circuitry and thereby power the primary functions of the medical device.

In some embodiments, the wireless implantable power receiver is not indirectly connected to the leads containing electrodes for stimulating tissue associated with the spine via a thin wire, but instead is fully integrated into an overall system in which the wireless implantable power receiver directly provides power to the component or device that is itself implantable. The wireless implantable power receiver can be directly attached to a component or device (e.g., a medical device) that requires DC power. In other embodiments, the receiver can provide power to multiple sensors distributed throughout the device. In still other embodiments, multiple receivers are arranged in series relative to each other to produce a power supply greater than 10 volts DC power.

Another embodiment relates to a wireless implantable power receiver comprising one or more inductorless antennas configured to receive radiated energy. The receiver may also include electronic circuitry configured to convert the radiated energy received by the one or more inductorless antennas into: (i) a DC power source to provide power to one or more devices; (ii) a signal to provide parameter settings to the device; (iii) a waveform to provide a stimulation signal to tissue; or (iv) any combination thereof. The receiver may not include a wired connector for receiving power.

A wireless implantable power receiver comprises one or more inductorless antennas and electronic circuitry, wherein the one or more inductorless antennas are configured to receive radiated energy, and the electronic circuitry is configured to convert the radiated energy received by the one or more inductorless antennas into a DC power source to provide power to one or more devices, wherein the devices do not include one or more electrodes configured to apply one or more electrical pulses to neural tissue associated with the spine.

Thus, the present invention provides a wireless implantable power receiver system. The system includes a housing, a housing shell, and one or more inductorless antennas configured to receive an input signal containing electrical energy from a remote antenna via electrical radiation coupling. The system also includes one or more circuits electrically connected to the one or more inductorless antennas, the one or more circuits configured to convert the electrical energy contained in the input signal into a DC constant current. In certain embodiments, the housing is shaped and arranged for delivery into a subject's body via an introducer or needle. In another embodiment, a relay antenna physically separate from the remote antenna is used to transmit energy to the implantable power receiver. In yet another embodiment, the implantable power receiver can additionally deliver parameters to the device, or waveforms to the tissue, or both. Distinctively, the invention disclosed herein does not connect to a separate device as detailed in provisional U.S. patent application 61/733,867, which utilizes a connector to provide only power to the attached device. Embodiments of the present invention can provide not only power, but also parameter sets and instructions to circuits (e.g., circuits of a medical stimulation or monitoring device). According to an exemplary embodiment, the receiver circuitry and the medical device circuitry may be contained within the same housing or casing.

Further description of exemplary wireless systems for providing neural stimulation to a patient can be found in these co-pending published PCT applications: PCT/US2012/23029, filed January 28, 2011, PCT/US2012/32200, filed April 11, 2011, PCT/US2012/48903, filed January 28, 2011, PCT/US2012/50633, filed August 12, 2011, and PCT/US2012/55746, filed September 15, 2011, the entire disclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety for all purposes.

In yet another embodiment of the present invention, one or more circuits of the implantable power receiver preferably include only passive components. In another embodiment, the rectification circuit and the smoothing circuit are passive. In still other embodiments, one or more circuits are active (e.g., an active integrated circuit, a field programmable gate array, or another active controller that can be powered for a short period of time and uses the power provided by the receiver circuit to perform its tasks).

In yet another embodiment of the present invention, the implantable power receiver preferably does not include a connector (e.g., a wired connector) or a connector pad (e.g., an inductive pad) to distinguish it from prior art devices. In yet other embodiments, the implantable power receiver does not include a built-in long-term storage battery. In yet other embodiments, neither the receiver nor the medical device powered by the receiver includes a long-term storage battery. In yet other embodiments, the receiver and/or the medical device includes a battery for backup or other secondary purposes, while primary power is provided by the receiver circuitry.

The internal circuitry of the implanted wireless receiver system operates to provide power to the device electronics within the housing and convert incoming wireless energy signals (eg, radiated energy) into electrical waveforms, or distribute them to various portions of the device.

In one embodiment, the internal circuitry may include one or more diodes. It should be noted that the diodes function to rectify wireless signals, such as sinusoidal signals, received by one or more non-inductor antennas. These diodes have a low threshold voltage to maximize the energy available for waveform creation and power generation. Additionally, the circuitry may include charge-balancing microelectronic components to reduce or prevent corrosion, as well as current limiters.

In certain embodiments, the circuit may include one or more inductorless antennas, a rectifier, a charge balancer, a current limiter, a controller, and a device interface. In short, the rectifier functions to rectify the signal received by the one or more inductorless antennas. The rectified signal can be fed to the controller for receiving coded instructions from the RF pulse generator module. The rectified signal can also be fed to a charge balancing element, which is configured to create one or more electrical pulses so that the one or more electrical pulses produce substantially zero net charge (i.e., the pulses are charge balanced). The charge-balanced pulses pass through the current limiter to the device interface. An example of this type of circuit is described in more detail in PCT/US2012/023029, which is fully incorporated by reference. The reader is referred to this published international application for more details. In addition, the reader is referred to published U.S. application 2012/0330384, which is also fully incorporated by reference.

In other embodiments of the claimed invention, the implantable power receiver is not connected to electrodes configured to apply one or more electrical pulses to neural tissue associated with the spinal column.

In yet another embodiment, the wireless implantable power receiver does not include a connector or one or more connector pads.The reader is referred to published international application PCT/US2012/032200 for further details, which is also incorporated by reference.

A telemetry signal can be sent to the implantable power receiver to deliver parameters to the device. The telemetry signal can be transmitted by modulation of a carrier signal. The telemetry signal does not interfere with the received input signal, which is converted to DC power to power the device. In one embodiment, the telemetry signal and the power signal are combined into a single signal; various electronic subsystems utilize the power contained in the signal and extract the digital content of the signal.

The RF pulse generator system may be located outside the body, or implanted within tissue remote from the implanted power receiver. In some embodiments, the RF pulse generator system may store parameters that are sent to the implanted power receiver via a remote antenna.

In preferred embodiments, an implantable power receiver is integrated or embedded within the device, providing power to the device. In other embodiments, the power receiver can be tethered to the device via a wire. The receiver can be tethered to different devices by one or more wires rather than a connector. In still other embodiments, the device is physically integrated within the housing of the medical device.

The implanted power receiver system may include a housing housing one or more non-inductive antennas (e.g., dipole or patch antennas), including internal circuitry including microelectronics for power rectification, and the implanted power receiver system may be connected to an implanted device or a device in close contact with human tissue.

In some embodiments, at least one of the antennas can be constructed as a conductive trace feature included on one of the circuits. In another embodiment, at least one of the antennas can be fabricated as a wire connected to one of the circuits.

In various embodiments, the implantable power receiver is wirelessly powered (and therefore does not require a wired connection) and contains the circuitry necessary to receive pulse instructions and waveforms or other signals from a source outside the body. For example, various embodiments employ a non-inductive, such as a dipole or other one or more antenna configurations, to receive RF power via electrical radiative coupling.

Additionally, an electrical radiation coupling mechanism (e.g., a dipole antenna) can be used to improve the form factor of the wireless implantable power receiver and allow for miniature diameters as small as 30 microns. Other implementations can have diameters less than 1.3 mm, or as small as 300 microns.

Electrical radiative coupling also allows for energy transmission and reception at greater depths with less performance degradation than with inductive coil technology. This can offer advantages over devices that employ inductive coupling, as the performance of such implants is highly dependent on the distance separating the external transmitter coil from the implanted receiver coil.

A variety of energy coupling structures are encompassed by the present invention. Some embodiments have only one non-inductor antenna; other embodiments have one or more non-inductor antennas, or multiple non-inductor antennas of any given width. For example, but not limitation, some embodiments have between three and ten non-inductor antennas, while other embodiments may have more than ten non-inductor antennas. Still other embodiments may have more than 20 non-inductor antennas.

In another embodiment, the one or more inductorless antennas and microelectronic devices may be placed singly or in plural.

The antenna is a non-inductor antenna and is configured to receive an input signal containing electrical energy through electrical radiative coupling. In some embodiments, the radiated energy source is physically separate from the implantable power receiver. That is, the source is remote from the implantable power receiver and the source itself transmits energy wirelessly, e.g., as electromagnetic radiation. Of course, the radiated energy source is located within a certain proximity of the implantable power receiver (but not physically touching or electrically connected via wires) so that the one or more non-inductor antennas can receive the radiated energy.

Embodiments of the present disclosure use electrical coupling and high frequencies to penetrate tissue media without the transmitting antenna being in direct contact with the body, as described in PCT application PCT/US2012/023029 and incorporated by reference.

In various embodiments, an implantable power receiver may be used to receive radiated energy from a remote source and provide power, parameters, and waveforms to a device without using cables or inductive coupling to power the implantable power receiver.

The antenna may be, for example, a dipole antenna. Some embodiments may have only one dipole antenna, while other embodiments may have multiple antennas of any given length. For example, but not limited to, some embodiments may have between two and ten dipole antennas, while other embodiments may have more than 10 dipole antennas or more than 20 dipole antennas.

In other embodiments, the implantable power receiver system may include up to ten non-inductor antennas within the housing, each independently having a length ranging from one quarter centimeter to twelve centimeters.

In some other embodiments, the length of the dipole antenna or the non-inductor antenna may range from about 100 microns to about 10 centimeters. In other embodiments, the length of the non-inductor antenna may range from 0.25 centimeters to 12 centimeters.

In other embodiments, the non-inductor antenna can be composed of any linear non-inductor structure with a thickness ranging from 1 mm to 4 mm. In other embodiments, the non-inductor antenna can be composed of any linear dipole structure with a thickness ranging from about 20 microns to about 3 mm.

The antenna may also be a folded dipole instead of a straight dipole.

In another embodiment, the one or more inductor-free antennas can receive frequencies from about 300 MHz to about 8 GHz. In yet another embodiment, the one or more inductor-free antennas can receive frequencies from about 800 MHz to about 5.8 GHz.

The signal received by the antenna is sent to the rectifier block for rectification. The rectifier's output signal is connected in parallel to a resistor and a DC storage capacitor. The DC storage capacitor helps smooth the rectified waveform and provide a constant power supply to the device. In one embodiment, the electronic circuit configured to generate DC power further includes a rectifier circuit and a smoothing circuit.

The rectifier may comprise one or more diodes.

In another embodiment, the diode may be a Schottky diode, which has instantaneous switching and negligible reverse recovery current. Schottky diodes are often used in RF detectors and mixers, allowing the use of smaller inductors and capacitors with higher efficiency.

The conditioning circuit may include electronic components such as diodes, resistors, and capacitors. The conditioning circuit may use the input energy to provide a waveform to the device for stimulating tissue, as well as help provide power, parameter settings, and other signals to the device. The wireless power receiver may include the conditioning circuit.

The conditioning circuit is configured to rectify the waveform signal received by one or more implanted inductorless antennas. The conditioning circuit may also have charge balancing microelectronics to prevent corrosion of contacts used for stimulation or for recording and exposed to tissue. The conditioning circuit may also include a current limiter that can limit the characteristics of the electrical pulses (e.g., current or duration) to ensure that the charge of each phase remains below a threshold level. To minimize energy reflections from exposed contacts back into the circuit, the conditioning circuit may also include an isolation circuit to block high-frequency signals.

In one embodiment, the implantable power receiver system preferably has an overall diameter that allows it to pass through the lumen of a standard 14 gauge needle, or a smaller needle, such as a 16, 18, 20, or 22 gauge needle.

In other embodiments, the implantable power receiver system can be delivered into the subject's body through a needle, such as, for example, an 18-gauge spinal needle or less, or an endoscope or less than 22-gauge. In still other embodiments, the outer diameter of the receiver is less than the inner diameter of a 14-gauge cannula or syringe.

In still other embodiments, the implantable power receiver may be configured with the sensor or circuitry within a larger housing, or integrated with such a device to which the power receiver is configured to provide power.

In still other embodiments, the implantable power receiver may be tethered by a wire to the body of the device to which it provides power.

Various embodiments of the wireless implantable power receiver system offer significant advantages over traditional wired devices, including ease of insertion, cross-connection, small size, elimination of extension leads for energy delivery, minimally invasive placement, no need for an implantable pulse generator (IPG), and long-term, effective treatment. In contrast to the present invention, larger implantable devices, such as IPG technology, can result in increased scar tissue and tissue reactions that can impact efficacy and safety. With current technology, an IPG is no longer required to deliver treatment.

In another embodiment, once in place, no further skin incisions or placement of expanders, receivers, or implanted pulse generators are required.

In one embodiment, an implantable power receiver can generate current capable of stimulating tissue, providing parameter settings to a device, or generating a DC voltage to power a device without physically connecting to an implantable pulse generator (IPG) or using an inductive coil. This can be advantageous relative to designs that employ an inductive coil to receive RF power through inductive coupling and then transfer the received power to a large IPG device for charging, particularly since such large IPG devices for charging can be as large as 100 mm x 70 mm, occupying from 18 cubic centimeters to over 50 cubic centimeters of space within the body.

In another embodiment, the implantable power receiver may be physically integrated with the device for implantation within the body.

In another embodiment, the receiver can power one or more devices. In another embodiment, the device can include multiple electrodes, for example, up to 100 or more electrodes, which are powered by one or more receivers. In yet another embodiment, the device body can have multiple implantable power receivers, for example, up to 4 or more.

Various implementations may also have an associated lower overall cost compared to existing implantable devices due to the elimination of the implantable pulse generator, and this may lead to: wider adoption of neuromodulation therapies for patients, wider use of sensors and implanted monitors, and local drug delivery mechanisms.

The device may include a stimulator, a telemetry device, a sensor, and a body monitoring device that monitors various physiological processes, including, for example, blood pressure or other vital signs including heart rate, temperature, and respiration. In other embodiments, such a device may monitor changes in physiological indicators such as chemical or biological molecules within an organ, tissue, or bloodstream, and (optionally) may power a subsequent device to release a predetermined amount of a chemical or biological drug in response to the physiological indicator measurement.

In yet other embodiments, the devices may include: recording electrodes, glucose monitors, cochlear implant devices, cardiac devices for monitoring, pacing, and defibrillation, devices for monitoring vital signs, deep brain stimulators, sensors placed outside the body or under the skin, and devices for powering drug release or timed release, and devices for recording action potentials.

In other embodiments, the wireless implantable power receiver includes one or more inductorless antennas configured to receive radiated energy. The wireless implantable power receiver also includes electronic circuitry configured to convert the radiated energy received by the one or more inductorless antennas into: (i) a DC power source to provide power to one or more devices; (ii) a signal to provide parameter settings to the device; (iii) a waveform to provide a stimulation signal to tissue; or (iv) any combination thereof. The device is selected from the group consisting of: (a) a glucose monitor; (b) a cardiac device for monitoring, pacing, or defibrillation; (c) one or more internal sensors for measuring vital signs; (d) one or more external sensors for measuring electrical activity, such as an EEG sensor or ECG sensor; (e) a microwire that measures action potential activity; (f) a timed-release capsule or drug-releasing device; (g) a cochlear lead; or (h) a deep brain stimulation device.

In another aspect, an implantable power receiver system includes a controller module. The controller module includes one or more inductorless antennas and one or more circuits. The one or more inductorless antennas are configured to transmit a signal containing electrical energy to a remote antenna via electrical radiation coupling. The remote antenna, located external to the implantable power receiver, is housed in a module configured to create one or more electrical pulses suitable for parameter input to a device or to generate a signal for tissue stimulation. The one or more inductorless antennas are further configured to receive one or more signals from the remote antenna, extract a feedback signal from the one or more received signals, extract one or more parameters, and adjust the input signal to the device based on the feedback signal. The one or more parameters of the electrical pulses may include the amplitude, duration, or frequency of the one or more electrical signals. In another embodiment, the receiver can provide parameter settings to the device, including frequency, amplitude, and duration parameters. The implantable power receiver can provide power to the controller module.

In another aspect, an implantable power receiver communicates with one or more external devices physically separate from the receiver to facilitate a feedback mechanism for parameter control. For example, the implantable power receiver may further include one or more circuits for transmitting information to a remote antenna of the external device to facilitate a feedback control mechanism for parameter control. For example, the implanted power receiver may send a feedback signal to a second antenna that is indicative of a biological process or a physical state of the monitored device, and the external system may adjust a parameter of a signal sent to the device using the feedback control signal.

In other embodiments, the wireless receiver system may record physiological parameters, such as the electrical activity of the heart. In other embodiments, the wireless receiver system may include electronic circuitry to wirelessly transmit signals recorded by the device for storage in a remote device or for processing.

In other embodiments, the wireless implantable power receiver system includes a remote system that processes signals transmitted by the receiver to generate parameter signals, tissue stimulation signals, or both, which are transmitted to the implantable power receiver for distribution to one or more devices or tissues.

Another embodiment of the present invention provides a method for providing power to an implanted device. The method includes providing an implantable wireless power receiver comprising a housing and a housing housing one or more non-inductive antennas. The antenna is configured to receive an input signal containing electrical energy from a remote antenna through electrical radiation coupling. The remote antenna is physically separated from the implantable receiver. One or more circuits are electrically connected to the one or more non-inductive antennas and configured to convert the electrical energy contained in the input signal into a constant power source, preferably a DC power source. The housing is shaped and arranged for delivery into the body of a subject via an introducer or needle.

Still further embodiments of the present invention provide methods of delivering electrical signals to power a device, comprising encapsulating an implantable wireless power receiver within the device, implanting the receiver and the device within tissue, and receiving radiated energy and converting the radiated energy into DC power for distribution to the device, wherein the device does not include a connector.

In another embodiment, the present invention may also include a method of providing parameters to a device, comprising receiving radiated energy through one or more non-inductive antennas, and converting the radiated energy into parameter input for distribution to the device using electronic circuitry, and delivering the parameter input to the device, wherein the device does not include a connector.

In still other embodiments, the present invention also includes a method of providing a stimulation waveform to tissue, comprising receiving radiated energy from one or more non-inductive antennas, converting the radiated energy into an electrical waveform suitable for tissue simulation using electronic circuitry, delivering the waveform to a device for distribution into tissue, and stimulating the tissue, wherein the device does not include a connector.

The neural tissue associated with the spinal column includes the spinothalamic tract, the dorsal horn of the spinal cord, the dorsal root ganglia, the dorsal roots, the dorsal column fibers, and the peripheral nerve tracts that exit the dorsal column or brainstem.

The wireless implantable power receiver system may (optionally) include electronic circuitry to transmit recorded signals from a device to which the wireless implantable power receiver provides power to a remote system for storage, processing, or both. The remote system processes the received signals to generate parameter signals, tissue stimulation signals, or any combination thereof, which are then transmitted to the implantable power receiver for distribution to one or more devices.

FIG1 illustrates an example of an implantable power receiver 110 that powers a stimulation or recording electrode 100. The electrode 100 is represented by a solid black rectangle at the distal end of the device 120. The receiver 110 is represented by a hatched rectangle at the proximal end of the device 120. In one embodiment, the device 120 may have two electrodes 100 powered by a receiver 110. In another embodiment, the device 120 may have multiple electrodes 100 powered by one or more receivers 110, for example, up to 100 or more. In yet another embodiment, a single power receiver 110 is embedded within the device body 120. In still another embodiment, the device body 20 may have multiple implantable power receivers 110, for example, up to four, more than four, two, and so on.

2A-2C illustrate block diagrams of power generation and parameter control for an implantable power receiver, according to some exemplary embodiments.

In FIG2A , a signal is received by an implanted antenna 200 (e.g., an inductor-free antenna), and the received energy (e.g., power and modulation representing data, power alone, modulation representing data alone, etc.) is sent to a rectifier circuit 230. According to an exemplary embodiment, the rectifier circuit can provide rectification of up to 10 volts of DC power per receiver. Referring to the medical device of FIG1 , this voltage output can be configured based on the depth of the implanted receiver within the tissue. The same overall configuration can be used for multiple receivers. Such multiple receivers can be placed in parallel, and the output power daisy-chained to create a greater maximum power supply to one or more devices. The output signal of rectifier 230 can be connected in parallel with resistor 210 and time-release capacitor 220 to provide a smoothing circuit. In other embodiments, the smoothing circuit may include one or more resistors and one or more capacitors. Capacitor 220 is used to smooth the rectified waveform and help provide a continuous supply of power to the device. Rectifier 230 and the smoothing circuit are part of the regulation circuit. It should be understood that capacitor 220 should not be considered a long-term power source, such as a battery. Thus, FIG. 2A advantageously does not include a battery for powering a medical device attached to the circuit of FIG. 2A .

FIG2B shows a controller 240 that receives the DC power supply from FIG2A as an input. In other words, the energy received at antenna 200 can be used to provide power to the signal processing electronics and controller of FIG2B. The energy received at inductorless antenna 200 can contain a modulation (e.g., AM, FM, etc.) representing a data signal.

In some embodiments, the signal received by the supplemental antenna 200B may be processed by a communication block 250 connected to the controller 240. In other embodiments, the controller 240 may pass the received DC power to the communication block 250 for demodulation and back to the controller.

In addition to supplying DC power to connected devices, the controller 240 can generate data signals, which can be based on the energy received from the DC power and/or the energy received from the antenna 200. The DC power can be distributed to the medical devices. In another embodiment, where the receiver is connected to multiple devices or multiple tissue sites, the design configuration can include a multiplexer 260 to deliver the designed signal to a specific device or tissue. The controller 240 can also provide a MUX control signal to select a specific output channel of the multiplexer 260. In addition, the output of the controller 240 can be sent to a remote site for storage or further processing.

In yet another embodiment, FIG2C shows a configuration in which the system (optionally) includes a signal processing block 280. The signal processing block 280 is powered by the power generation circuit and may also receive input from one or more inductorless antennas 200. The signals received by the antennas are processed by a communication block 290, which is connected to the signal processor 280. The sensor input 270 may be fed into the signal processing unit 280, and once processing is complete, the output of the processing unit 280 may be sent to a remote storage or processing site.

The various configurations shown in Figures 2A-2C can be used with medical stimulation or monitoring devices powered by an implantable power receiver. It is important to note that in Figures 2B and 2C, the DC power can be provided by any suitable power source or by the energy harvesting receiver of Figure 2A.

FIG3 shows another embodiment of one or more implantable power receivers 110 that can be attached by a wire tether 330 to transmit power and data instructions to a sensor system. In this particular embodiment, the receiver 110 is connected to an implantable glucose monitor 310, which includes a sensor for continuously monitoring blood glucose levels. In this configuration, the power receiver 110 is represented by a hatched rectangle.

FIG4 illustrates another embodiment in which one or more implantable power receivers 110 can be placed within a heart 440 via a catheter 430 routed through an artery. In this example, the receiver 110 is shown at the proximal end of the catheter 430, and one or more sensors 420 are shown attached to the heart 440. In this example, the receiver 110 is shown as a hatched rectangle. Once placed, the receiver 110 can be used to record or transmit vital signs, power sensors, and provide signals, such as pacing or defibrillation signals, for distribution to tissues within the heart 440. Examples of vital signs that can be monitored by sensors powered by these implantable receivers 110 include heart rate, temperature, and blood pressure. In other embodiments, the receiver 110 can power sensors that measure both systolic and diastolic blood pressure. Additionally, the system can monitor chemical or biological signals, such as changes in the concentration of molecules found within tissues, organs, or the bloodstream.

In another embodiment, the implantable receiver 110 can be within a lead body connected to an electrode array that is placed within the descending branch of the left or right pulmonary artery (PA). The lead body with the implantable receiver 110 can be marked with a material to allow visualization during placement, such as by fluoroscopy.

In addition to the sensors, implantable receiver 110 may be used to power circuitry that transmits measurement information to an external device for processing and storage.

In another embodiment, the implantable receiver 110 is connected to a lead, which is a flexible, insulated wire that is implanted within the heart 440 to monitor the heart's electrical activity. For example, a typical procedure would involve placing one or more leads within the heart 440, such as the right atrium, right ventricle, or both. In another embodiment, the lead may be placed on or near the sinoatrial node.

In one embodiment, an implantable receiver system can monitor the electrical activity of the heart 440 through implanted leads and, if the rhythm becomes too slow or too fast, deliver electrical signals to the myocardium. In another embodiment, pacing and defibrillation can be performed in the right ventricle, the right atrium, or both. In another embodiment, pacing can be performed on a time scale commensurate with the beating rate of the heart 440.

In yet another embodiment, the implantable receiver system stores parameters for maintaining certain “pacing conditions.” Receiver 110 may also receive parameter signals for pacing or defibrillation.

5 shows another embodiment of an implantable power receiver 110. The receiver 110 can be placed in a plurality of small EEG pads 520 on the surface of the head. In other embodiments, the receiver 110 can also be placed in an ECG sensor (not shown) or implanted under the skin, for example, as part of an ECG wireless sensor system.

The figure illustrates a receiver 110, shown as a hatched circle, connected to a sensor placed on the surface of the head, such as an EEG pad 520. The receiver 110 provides power to the EEG sensor 520 and sends recorded signals of the brain's electrical activity to an external device for processing or display on a monitor.

In yet another embodiment, the receiver 110 can be connected to an ECG device to diagnose conditions such as cardiac arrhythmias. Such arrhythmias may result from abnormalities in the electrical activity of the sinoatrial node, irregular beats from the heart's chambers, abnormal electrical pathways in the heart, or irregularities from underlying coronary artery disease. Such conditions may include, but are not limited to, for example, sinus arrhythmia, sinus tachycardia, sinus bradycardia, sick sinus syndrome, atrial premature beats, supraventricular tachycardia, Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome, atrial flutter and atrial fibrillation, ventricular premature beats, ventricular tachycardia, and ventricular fibrillation.

FIG6 illustrates another embodiment of an implantable power receiver 110. In this example, one or more fine wires 630 can be powered by the receiver 110 to record action potential activity from target tissue (e.g., brain tissue or direct nerve tracts). The figure illustrates the receiver 110, shown as a hatched rectangle, connected to a device 610 from which the fine wires 630 extend.

In one embodiment, the micro-wires 630 can be made from materials including metals, conductive polymers, or other materials with conductive properties.

In another embodiment, micro-wire 630 can be implanted for continuous recording of electrophysiological activity. In this case, receiver 110 can also send the recorded signals to an external device for storage and processing.

FIG7 shows another embodiment of an implantable power receiver 110. In this embodiment, a small implantable power receiver 110 can be located anywhere in the body and placed under the skin to provide power, parameters to a device, provide energy to activate tissue, or any combination thereof. The figure illustrates the receiver 110, shown as a hatched rectangle, attached to a sensor implanted under the skin.

In another embodiment, receiver 110 may be implanted under the skin to power another element to control the release of drug from an implanted time-release capsule or drug pump unit.

FIG8 illustrates another embodiment of an implantable power receiver 110. In this embodiment, receiver 110 can be externally placed on tissue and remotely powered to provide stimulation signals or power other sensing units. In another embodiment, receiver 110 can be externally placed on tissue to control a drug evasion device. The drug evasion device can be implanted in the human body. Receiver 110 is shown as a hatched circle.

FIG9 illustrates an embodiment in which one or more implantable power receivers 110 are tethered to a drug pump unit 910 (circular device) for powering and transmitting data to control drug release. In addition to providing power, the receivers 110 can also deliver signals to the drug pump unit 910 to release a prescribed amount of drug. The receivers 110 are shown as hatched rectangles within the body of the drug pump device 910.

The drug pump unit 910 may contain a pump (a circular device) for storing and delivering the drug, and a catheter 930, or a thin, flexible tube, for delivering the drug to a specific location. The drug pump unit may release the drug via: (1) a non-programmable fixed-rate method, in which the dose can be varied by adjusting the drug concentration, or (2) a programmable method, in which a single or timed dose can be administered, or the infusion rate can be adjusted.

The receiver 110 may provide power and parameters to the drug pump unit to control the amount and rate of drug release.

In another embodiment, a microchip with one or more reservoirs is implanted in tissue. The reservoir is a storage unit for medication. Receiver 110 can receive radiant energy and convert it into power and parameter settings to trigger the opening of specific reservoir chambers to dispense medication.

FIG10 illustrates another embodiment of an implantable power receiver 110 disclosed herein. In this embodiment, the receiver 110 is tethered to a cochlear lead 1010 to power a hearing aid device without the use of an implanted battery. The cochlear lead 1010 can have one or more electrodes 1030 along the length of the flexible body. In this figure, the receiver 110 is shown as a hatched rectangle within the body of the device, and the electrodes 1030 are shown as solid rectangles extending distally along the body of the device.

Receiver 110 can provide power and stimulation signals to cochlear lead 1010. Cochlear lead 1010 has a plurality of electrodes 1030 that can be configured to stimulate the auditory nerve from within the cochlea.

The cochlear system can have a transmitter located outside that sends sound information to a location located inside the device, a cochlear lead 1010, a microphone that captures sound information in the environment, and a signal processing unit that converts the sound into a signal to be sent to the cochlear lead 1010.

In one embodiment of the present invention, a cochlear lead 1010 has an implantable power receiver 110 that receives power and converts it into electrical signals to power the electronics of the cochlear system. The power receiver 110 also converts the signals received by one or more inductorless antennas into digital data set instructions.

In other embodiments, the present invention can improve the form factor of an implanted cochlear lead 1010 .

FIG11 shows another embodiment of an implantable power receiver 110. In this embodiment, the receiver 110 can be tethered to a screw lead structure 1110 for brain stimulation. As shown, the receiver 110 is located adjacent to the distal end of the screw lead structure 1110. The receiver 110 is shown as a hatched rectangle.

A deep brain stimulation (DBS) system may include a lead having one or more electrodes, a neurostimulator (eg, an IPG) having microelectronics, and a power supply. The lead is placed in the brain.

DBS can be useful for various movement disorders, including but not limited to, for example, Parkinson's disease, essential tremor, brachial tremor, and dystonia. In addition, DBS systems can be used to treat various neurological diseases, including but not limited to, for example, Tourette's syndrome, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and major depressive disorder.

Pulses of electrical energy can be used to interfere with and block the electrical signals that cause movement disorders.

Unless otherwise indicated, all numerals of the expression component quantity, characteristic (such as molecular weight), reaction conditions etc. used in the specification and claims should be understood to be modified by the term "about" in all cases. Therefore, unless otherwise indicated, the numerical parameters set forth in the specification and the appended claims are approximate values that may change according to the desired characteristic sought to be obtained by the present invention. At the very least, and without attempting to limit the scope of the application of the doctrine of equivalents to the claims, each numerical parameter should at least be interpreted according to the number of significant figures reported and by applying conventional rounding techniques. Although the numerical range and parameters setting forth the broad scope of the present invention are approximate values, the numerical value set forth in the specific examples is reported as accurately as possible. However, any numerical value inherently comprises some errors, and these errors inevitably result from the standard deviation found in their respective experimental measurements.

The terms "a", "an", "the" and similar references used in the context of describing the present invention (particularly in the context of the following claims) should be interpreted as including both the singular and the plural, unless otherwise specified herein or clearly contradictory to the context. The range of numerical values described herein is intended only to be used as a shorthand method for individually referring to each independent value falling within the range. Unless otherwise specified herein, each independent value is included in the specification as if they were individually listed here. All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order, unless otherwise specified herein or clearly contradictory to the context. The use of any and all examples or exemplary language (e.g., "for example") provided herein is only intended to better illustrate the present invention and is not intended to limit the scope of the present invention claimed in other ways. The language in the specification should not be interpreted as indicating that any unclaimed element is necessary for implementing the present invention.

The groups of optional elements or embodiments of the present invention disclosed herein should not be construed as limitations. Each group member may be referred to and claimed individually, or in any combination with other members of the group or other elements found herein. It is contemplated that, for reasons of convenience and/or patentability, one or more members of a group may be included in the group, or deleted from the group. When any such inclusion or deletion occurs, this specification is deemed to include the group so modified, thus satisfying the written record requirements for all Markush groups used in the appended claims.

Certain embodiments of the present invention are described herein, including the best mode known to the inventors for carrying out the invention. Of course, variations of these described embodiments will become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon reading the foregoing description. The inventors expect that those skilled in the art will employ such variations as appropriate, and the inventors anticipate that the present invention may be practiced other than as specifically described herein. Accordingly, the present invention includes all modifications and equivalents of the subject matter recited in the claims appended hereto as permitted by applicable law. Furthermore, any combination of the above-described elements in all their possible variations is encompassed by the present invention, unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by the context.

The specific embodiments disclosed herein may be further limited in the claims using language such as "consisting of" or "consisting essentially of." When used in a claim, whether used at the time of filing or added upon amendment, the conjunction "consisting of" excludes any elements, steps, or ingredients not specified in the claim. The conjunction "consisting essentially of" limits the scope of the claim to the specified materials or steps and those that do not materially affect the basic and novel characteristic(s). Thus, the embodiments of the claimed invention are inherently or expressly described and enabled herein.

Claims (29)

1. A wireless implantable power receiver, comprising: One or more inductive-free antennas, the one or more inductive-free antennas being configured to receive electrical energy radiated from outside the object without inductive coupling; and Electronic circuitry configured to convert radiated electrical energy received non-inductively coupled by the one or more inductively non-inductive antennas to generate one or more electrical pulses to drive a medical stimulation device using a voltage higher than 2V. The wireless implantable power receiver is a separate and independent device from the medical stimulation device, and The medical stimulation device is powered solely by the converted electrical energy, thus eliminating the need for battery power or wired power from outside the object. 2. The wireless implantable power receiver according to claim 1, wherein the electronic circuit further includes a rectifier circuit and a smoothing circuit. 3. The wireless implantable power receiver according to claim 2, wherein the rectifier circuit and the smoothing circuit are passive. 4. The wireless implantable power receiver of claim 3, wherein the rectifier circuit further comprises one or more diodes. 5. The wireless implantable power receiver of claim 3, wherein the smoothing circuit further comprises one or more resistors and one or more capacitors. 6. The wireless implantable power receiver of claim 1, wherein the electronic circuitry provides up to 10 volts of DC power to the medical stimulation device. 7. The wireless implantable power receiver of claim 1, wherein the electronic circuitry delivers power to a plurality of sensors of the medical stimulation device. 8. A wireless implantable power receiver for a medical stimulation device implanted in a subject, comprising: One or more inductive-free antennas, the one or more inductive-free antennas being configured to receive electrical energy radiated from outside the object without inductive coupling; and Electronic circuitry configured to convert radiated electrical energy received inductively coupled by the one or more inductively non-inductive antennas to power a medical stimulation device implanted in the subject using a voltage higher than 2V, and to provide parameter settings to the medical stimulation device. The wireless implantable power receiver is a separate and independent device from the medical stimulation device, and The medical stimulation device is powered solely by the converted electrical energy, thus eliminating the need for battery power or wired power from outside the object. 9. The wireless implantable power receiver of claim 8, wherein the medical stimulation device is powered solely by the converted electrical energy. 10. The wireless implantable power receiver of claim 8, wherein the receiver includes regulation circuitry configured to regulate the received electrical energy. 11. The wireless implantable power receiver of claim 8, wherein at least one of the inductive antennas comprises a conductive trace on an electronic circuit. 12. The wireless implantable power receiver of claim 8, wherein at least one of the inductorless antennas is manufactured as a wire connected to an electronic circuit. 13. The wireless implantable power receiver of claim 8, wherein one or more inductive antennas have a length ranging from 100 micrometers to 10 centimeters. 14. The wireless implantable power receiver of claim 8, wherein one or more inductive antennas have a thickness ranging from 20 micrometers to 3 millimeters. 15. The wireless implantable power receiver of claim 8, wherein one or more inductive antennas receive frequencies from 300 MHz to 8 GHz. 16. The wireless implantable power receiver of claim 8, wherein the parameter settings assigned to the medical stimulation device include frequency, amplitude, and duration parameters. 17. The wireless implantable power receiver of claim 8, wherein the electronic circuitry is further configured to transmit signals recorded by the medical stimulation device to a remote system for storage or processing. 18. The wireless implantable power receiver of claim 17, wherein the electronic circuitry is further configured to transmit signals recorded by the medical stimulation device to a remote system, such that the remote system, in response to the transmitted signals, generates parameter signals, tissue stimulation signals, or both, and then transmits the generated signals to the implantable power receiver for distribution to elements of the medical stimulation device. 19. A system comprising a plurality of wireless implantable power receivers according to claim 8, wherein each wireless implantable power receiver is arranged in series with respect to each other to generate a power supply of more than 10 volts DC power. 20. A system for use with a medical device, comprising: One or more medical stimulation devices; One or more inductive-free antennas, the one or more inductive-free antennas being configured to receive radiated electrical energy in an inductively coupled manner; and Electronic circuitry configured to convert radiated electrical energy received by the one or more inductively coupled antennas to provide power to the one or more medical stimulation devices implanted in the subject. The one or more medical stimulation devices mentioned above include microwires for measuring action potential activity, and The one or more medical stimulation devices are powered solely by the converted electrical energy, so that the one or more medical stimulation devices do not require battery power or wired power from outside the object. 21. A medical device system, comprising: Medical stimulation devices; and Wireless implantable power receiver, including: (a) One or more inductive-free antennas configured to receive electrical energy radiated from outside the object without inductive coupling; and (b) Electronic circuitry configured to convert radiated electrical energy received by the one or more inductively non-inductive antennas into power supplied to the medical stimulation device implanted in the subject using a voltage higher than 2V. The wireless implantable power receiver is a separate and independent device from the medical stimulation device, and The medical stimulation device is powered solely by the converted electrical energy, thus eliminating the need for battery power or wired power from outside the object. 22. The medical device system of claim 21, wherein the medical stimulation device includes one or more electrodes configured to apply one or more electrical pulses to nerve tissue associated with the spine. 23. The medical device system of claim 21, wherein the electronic circuit further comprises a rectifier circuit and a smoothing circuit. 24. The medical device system of claim 23, wherein the rectifier circuit and the smoothing circuit are passive. 25. The medical device system of claim 24, wherein the rectifier circuit further comprises one or more diodes. 26. The medical device system of claim 24, wherein the smoothing circuit further comprises one or more resistors and one or more capacitors. 27. The medical device system of claim 21, wherein the wireless implantable power receiver is configured to provide up to 10 volts of DC power. 28. The medical device system of claim 21, wherein the wireless implantable power receiver is linked to the medical stimulation device via one or more wires. 29. The medical device system of claim 21, wherein the wireless implantable power receiver provides power to a plurality of sensors within the medical stimulation device.