Transcutaneous Energy Transfer System Performance Evaluation

Abstract

A transcutaneous energy transfer (TET) system has been developed to power implantable devices such as artificial hearts, defibrillators, and electrical stimulators. Transcutaneous coupling of power to these implanted devices remains a favorable alternative as percutaneous lines are avoided in order to eliminate the potential of infection and allow patient mobility. In vitro, in vivo, ex vivo, and human cadaver studies of the electrohydraulic ventricular assist device TET have demonstrated that power can be transmitted over a range of skin thicknesses of 3-15 mm and can tolerate radial misalignments of up to 20 mm. Sensitivity to coil separation and radial misalignment variations has been addressed by the development of an auto-tuning TET. The system has only a 10% attenuation in secondary coil voltage when metallic objects are in contact with the primary coil. The system has demonstrated a power transfer efficiency of 60-80% for power demands from 5 to 70 W. The TET secondary coil will provide an output voltage of 10-25 V for current demands from 0.5 to 4.0 A. TET chronic studies in porcine models have demonstrated no adverse effect to the tissue when up to 40 W of power can be delivered to an implanted load without the tissue-contacting surface of the coil exceeding 42 degrees C. In conclusion, the TET is a feasible alternative for tether-free power transmission.