Implantable stimulator with replenishable, high value capacitive power source and method therefor
August 1, 2016. Estimated Expiration Date is calculated based on simple USPTO term provisions. It does not account for terminal disclaimers, term adjustments, failure to pay maintenance fees, or other factors which might affect the term of a patent.Patent References 3209081 3258013 Multimode recharging system for living tissue stimulators Stimulator apparatus for internal body organ Bladder control device and method Capacitive energy source and circuitry for powering medical apparatus Implantable tissue-stimulating prosthesis Implantable externally programmable microprocessor-controlled tissue stimulator Cardiac pacer with battery consumption monitor circuit Non-invasive multiprogrammable tissue stimulator InventorAssigneeApplicationNo. 672328 filed on 08/01/1996US Classes:607/61Energy source outside generator bodyExaminersPrimary: Getzow, Scott M.Attorney, Agent or FirmInternational ClassA61N 001/18AbstractThe implantable stimulator in accordance with the principles of the present invention utilizes a high value, small sized capacitor having at least a capacitive rating of 0.1 farads which is completely contained within the implantable stimulator. This high value, small size capacitor or series of capacitors enables the implantable stimulator to deliver, on a controlled and continual basis, electric stimulation pulses to targeted tissues over at least an 8 hour period. Further, the capacitive power source is replenished via an external, RF coupled device on a daily or other long term periodic basis. During the replenishing cycle, the energy contained in the battery of the external transmitter is transferred to the internal capacitive power source in the implantable stimulator. The method includes providing, on an exclusive basis, power to an implantable stimulator via a high value capacitive source during at least an 8 hour cycle of substantially continual delivery of electric stimulation pulses to targeted tissue. The method includes incorporating and containing a capacitive device in the implantable stimulator wherein the capacitive device has a capacitive rating of at least 0.1 farads. The capacitive device captures and stores a pre-determined amount of coulombs of electrical energy. This electrical energy is utilized to power the implantable stimulator during at least an 8 hour cycle during substantial continual delivery of electric stimulation pulses, all based upon energy stored by the capacitive device. Longer cycles (exceeding 24 hours) may be possible. The replenishment unit can be programmed to interrogate the implant and reprogram the implant upon detection of a lower power status signal. Also, automatic as well as manually commanded replenishment routines are established between the replenishment unit and the implant. Data transmission, error detection routines are established for the programming of the implant.Other References
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