Ultrasound based wireless power

Abstract

Implantable medical devices (IMDs) are used by over 25 million US citizens every year as cardiac pacemakers, neurostimulators, sensors and many other applications. Currently, IMDs run on miniature, low power batteries- however, there is an urgent need for more power to operate large arrays of implants. In this research, we have developed a novel method of wirelessly transferring power into the human body using a standard medical ultrasound transmitter. The implanted receiver, which is called CPUT, is able to convert the ultrasound into electrical power and store it in a safe and highly efficient manner. Thus we can provide large amounts of power to IMDs inside the body without the hassle of bulky batteries or wires.