TLDR:
- Implantable biomedical devices are becoming smaller and utilizing wireless technology.
- A new wireless charging device developed by Penn State scientists can harvest energy from magnetic field and ultrasound sources simultaneously.
Implantable biomedical devices, such as pacemakers and insulin pumps, are advancing in terms of size and wireless technology. However, powering these next-gen implants remains a challenge. Penn State scientists have developed a new wireless charging device that can harvest energy from both magnetic field and ultrasound sources simultaneously, converting it into electricity to power the implants. This breakthrough could significantly improve powering capability for implants while still being safe for human tissue. The device is capable of generating 300% higher power than current state-of-the-art devices, enabling the miniaturization of battery-free bioelectronic devices and the development of distributed networks of sensors and actuators throughout the body.
Traditionally, implants like pacemakers are powered by batteries and charged using cables, raising concerns about limited lifespan and the need for invasive surgeries to replace them. By enabling wireless charging or powering for implants, their lifespan can be extended without the risks associated with battery replacement surgeries. The new wireless charging technology developed by Penn State researchers creates a significant leap in the field by combining two energy sources in a single generator with high efficiency and safety limits for human tissue. This groundbreaking technology has implications not only for next-generation medical implants but also for applications like wireless sensor networks in smart buildings.