Transcutaneous energy transmission with temperature and power double closed-loop control

Thermal hazards caused by transcutaneous energy transmission (TET) have resulted in skin burns and led to a global recall of rechargeable neuromodulation devices in recent clinical practice. This paper presents a double closed-loop TET scheme consisting of an outer temperature control loop and an inner received power control loop. The transmit power from the external coils is adjusted according to the received power from the implanted coils to charge the implanted battery while maintaining stable energy transmissions. The charging power for the battery is adjusted according to the implant temperature to control the heat production and prevent overheating. In vitro and in vivo experiments verify the safety and efficiency of the TET controller which provides a viable solution for charging implantable medical devices. ©, 2014, Press of Tsinghua University. All right reserved.