Abstract

Provided herein are devices, systems, and methods for assessing, treating, and for developing new treatments for pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) using pulmonary artery pressure (PAP) values and/or cardiac output (CO) estimates.

IPC Classes  ?

• A61B 5/0215 - Measuring pressure in heart or blood vessels by means inserted into the body
• A61B 5/00 - Measuring for diagnostic purposes Identification of persons
• A61B 5/02 - Detecting, measuring or recording for evaluating the cardiovascular system, e.g. pulse, heart rate, blood pressure or blood flow
• A61B 5/029 - Measuring blood output from the heart, e.g. minute volume
• G16H 20/10 - ICT specially adapted for therapies or health-improving plans, e.g. for handling prescriptions, for steering therapy or for monitoring patient compliance relating to drugs or medications, e.g. for ensuring correct administration to patients
• G16H 50/20 - ICT specially adapted for medical diagnosis, medical simulation or medical data miningICT specially adapted for detecting, monitoring or modelling epidemics or pandemics for computer-aided diagnosis, e.g. based on medical expert systems

Abstract

A computer implemented method, system and device are provided. The method transmits an energizing signal from an external antenna, coupled to a local external device (LED), to an implanted antenna of a passive implanted medical device (PIMD). The energizing signal is transmitted while the external antenna is at first and second positions. The method receives, at the external antenna, first and second energy transfer characteristic (ETC) values associated with the first and second positions, respectively. The method is under control of one or more processors configured with program instructions. The method analyzes the first and second ETC values to determine a difference therebetween. The method provides an energy transfer level (ETL) indicator based on the difference between the first and second ETC values. The ETL indicator provides feedback regarding a degree of energy transfer associated with at least one of the first and second positions.

IPC Classes  ?

• H02J 50/90 - Circuit arrangements or systems for wireless supply or distribution of electric power involving detection or optimisation of position, e.g. alignment
• A61B 5/00 - Measuring for diagnostic purposes Identification of persons
• H01Q 1/24 - SupportsMounting means by structural association with other equipment or articles with receiving set
• H02J 7/00 - Circuit arrangements for charging or depolarising batteries or for supplying loads from batteries
• H02J 50/12 - Circuit arrangements or systems for wireless supply or distribution of electric power using inductive coupling of the resonant type
• H02J 50/40 - Circuit arrangements or systems for wireless supply or distribution of electric power using two or more transmitting or receiving devices
• H02J 50/80 - Circuit arrangements or systems for wireless supply or distribution of electric power involving the exchange of data, concerning supply or distribution of electric power, between transmitting devices and receiving devices

Abstract

A computer implemented method, system and device are provided. The method transmits an energizing signal from an external antenna, coupled to a local external device (LED), to an implanted antenna of a passive implanted medical device (PIMD). The energizing signal is transmitted while the external antenna is at first and second positions. The method receives, at the external antenna, first and second energy transfer characteristic (ETC) values associated with the first and second positions, respectively. The method is under control of one or more processors configured with program instructions. The method analyzes the first and second ETC values to determine a difference therebetween. The method provides an energy transfer level (ETL) indicator based on the difference between the first and second ETC values. The ETL indicator provides feedback regarding a degree of energy transfer associated with at least one of the first and second positions.

IPC Classes  ?

• H02J 50/90 - Circuit arrangements or systems for wireless supply or distribution of electric power involving detection or optimisation of position, e.g. alignment
• A61B 5/00 - Measuring for diagnostic purposes Identification of persons
• H01Q 1/24 - SupportsMounting means by structural association with other equipment or articles with receiving set
• H02J 50/12 - Circuit arrangements or systems for wireless supply or distribution of electric power using inductive coupling of the resonant type
• H02J 50/80 - Circuit arrangements or systems for wireless supply or distribution of electric power involving the exchange of data, concerning supply or distribution of electric power, between transmitting devices and receiving devices
• H02J 7/00 - Circuit arrangements for charging or depolarising batteries or for supplying loads from batteries
• H02J 50/40 - Circuit arrangements or systems for wireless supply or distribution of electric power using two or more transmitting or receiving devices

Abstract

Provided herein are devices, systems, and methods for assessing, treating, and for developing new treatments for pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) using pulmonary artery pressure (PAP) values and/or cardiac output (CO) estimates.

IPC Classes  ?

• A61B 5/0215 - Measuring pressure in heart or blood vessels by means inserted into the body
• G16H 50/20 - ICT specially adapted for medical diagnosis, medical simulation or medical data miningICT specially adapted for detecting, monitoring or modelling epidemics or pandemics for computer-aided diagnosis, e.g. based on medical expert systems
• A61B 5/029 - Measuring blood output from the heart, e.g. minute volume
• A61B 5/02 - Detecting, measuring or recording for evaluating the cardiovascular system, e.g. pulse, heart rate, blood pressure or blood flow
• A61B 5/00 - Measuring for diagnostic purposes Identification of persons
• G16H 20/10 - ICT specially adapted for therapies or health-improving plans, e.g. for handling prescriptions, for steering therapy or for monitoring patient compliance relating to drugs or medications, e.g. for ensuring correct administration to patients

Abstract

Provided herein are methods and systems for the treatment of cardiovascular conditions, including pulmonary hypertension (PH), in subjects that are being treated with a treatment regimen that includes a phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE-5) inhibitor.

IPC Classes  ?

• A61K 31/495 - Heterocyclic compounds having nitrogen as a ring hetero atom, e.g. guanethidine or rifamycins having six-membered rings with two nitrogen atoms as the only ring hetero atoms, e.g. piperazine
• A61K 31/4985 - Pyrazines or piperazines ortho- or peri-condensed with heterocyclic ring systems
• A61K 31/519 - PyrimidinesHydrogenated pyrimidines, e.g. trimethoprim ortho- or peri-condensed with heterocyclic rings
• A61B 5/00 - Measuring for diagnostic purposes Identification of persons
• A61B 5/0215 - Measuring pressure in heart or blood vessels by means inserted into the body

Abstract

Provided herein are devices, systems, and methods for assessing, treating, and for developing new treatments for pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) using pulmonary artery pressure (PAP) values and/or cardiac output (CO) estimates.

IPC Classes  ?

• A61B 5/02 - Detecting, measuring or recording for evaluating the cardiovascular system, e.g. pulse, heart rate, blood pressure or blood flow
• A61B 5/0215 - Measuring pressure in heart or blood vessels by means inserted into the body
• G16H 50/20 - ICT specially adapted for medical diagnosis, medical simulation or medical data miningICT specially adapted for detecting, monitoring or modelling epidemics or pandemics for computer-aided diagnosis, e.g. based on medical expert systems
• A61B 5/029 - Measuring blood output from the heart, e.g. minute volume
• A61B 5/00 - Measuring for diagnostic purposes Identification of persons
• G06F 19/00 - Digital computing or data processing equipment or methods, specially adapted for specific applications (specially adapted for specific functions G06F 17/00;data processing systems or methods specially adapted for administrative, commercial, financial, managerial, supervisory or forecasting purposes G06Q;healthcare informatics G16H)

Abstract

Wireless sensors configured to record and transmit data as well as sense and, optionally, actuate to monitor physical properties of an environment and, optionally, effect changes within that environment. In one aspect, the wireless sensor can have a power harvesting unit; a voltage regulation unit, a transducing oscillator unit, and a transmitting coil. The voltage regulation unit is electrically coupled to the power harvesting unit and is configured to actuate at a minimum voltage level. The transducing oscillator unit is electrically coupled to the voltage regulation unit and is configured to convert a sensed physical property into an electrical signal. Also, the transmitting coil is configured to receive the electrical signal and to transmit the electrical signal to an external antenna.

IPC Classes  ?

• A61B 19/00 - Instruments, implements or accessories for surgery or diagnosis not covered by any of the groups A61B 1/00-A61B 18/00, e.g. for stereotaxis, sterile operation, luxation treatment, wound edge protectors(protective face masks A41D 13/11; surgeons' or patients' gowns or dresses A41D 13/12; devices for carrying-off, for treatment of, or for carrying-over, body liquids A61M 1/00)
• A61B 5/00 - Measuring for diagnostic purposes Identification of persons
• H02J 7/02 - Circuit arrangements for charging or depolarising batteries or for supplying loads from batteries for charging batteries from AC mains by converters

Abstract

Aspects and embodiments of the present invention provide a system for obtaining, processing and managing data from an implanted sensor. In some embodiments, a patient or other persons can use a flexible antenna to obtain data from the implanted sensor. The flexible antenna includes at least one transmit loop and at least one receive loop. The transmit loop is adapted to propagate energizing signals to the implanted sensor. The receive loop is adapted to detect a response signal from the implanted sensor. The transmit loop includes a capacitor formed by a discontinuous area. The capacitor is adapted to allow the loop to be tuned. The flexible antenna can communicate with a patient device that collects the data from the implanted sensor, creates a data file and transmits the data file to a remote server over a network. A physician or other authorized person may access the remote server using an access device.

IPC Classes  ?

• G08B 1/08 - Systems for signalling characterised solely by the form of transmission of the signal using electric transmission

Abstract

A delivery system for fixation of an implant assembly having an intracorporeal device at a deployment site using an anchoring structure. This invention provides an implant assembly having an anchor for fixation within a vessel. The anchoring structure adapted to be delivered via a catheter.

IPC Classes  ?

• A61B 5/02 - Detecting, measuring or recording for evaluating the cardiovascular system, e.g. pulse, heart rate, blood pressure or blood flow

Abstract

An implant assembly is implanted in vivo within a vascular system in the implant assembly has a diameter greater than a vessel and compliance characteristics such that, upon release, the implant assembly forms an interference fit is between the anchor structure and the vessel wall, thereby preventing further distal movement.

IPC Classes  ?

• A61B 5/02 - Detecting, measuring or recording for evaluating the cardiovascular system, e.g. pulse, heart rate, blood pressure or blood flow

Abstract

A method for providing an in-vivo assessment of relative movement of an implant that is positioned in a living being is provided wherein a first assembly and a second assembly are positioned within the living being. The first assembly includes a passive electrical resonant circuit that is configured to be selectively electromagnetically coupled to an ex-vivo source of RF energy and, in response to the electromagnetic coupling, generates an output signal characterized by a frequency that is dependent upon a distance between the first assembly and the second assembly at the time of the electromagnetic coupling.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01R 27/04 - Measuring real or complex resistance, reactance, impedance, or other two-pole characteristics derived therefrom, e.g. time constant in circuits having distributed constants
• A61B 5/055 - Detecting, measuring or recording for diagnosis by means of electric currents or magnetic fieldsMeasuring using microwaves or radio waves involving electronic [EMR] or nuclear [NMR] magnetic resonance, e.g. magnetic resonance imaging
• A61B 5/00 - Measuring for diagnostic purposes Identification of persons
• A61B 5/05 - Detecting, measuring or recording for diagnosis by means of electric currents or magnetic fieldsMeasuring using microwaves or radio waves
• H01Q 7/00 - Loop antennas with a substantially uniform current distribution around the loop and having a directional radiation pattern in a plane perpendicular to the plane of the loop
• A61B 5/07 - Endoradiosondes

Abstract

The present invention determines the resonant frequency of a sensor by adjusting the phase and frequency of an energizing signal until the frequency of the energizing signal matches the resonant frequency of the sensor. The system energizes the sensor with a low duty cycle, gated burst of RF energy having a predetermined frequency or set of frequencies and a predetermined amplitude. The energizing signal is coupled to the sensor via magnetic coupling and induces a current in the sensor which oscillates at the resonant frequency of the sensor. The system receives the ring down response of the sensor via magnetic coupling and determines the resonant frequency of the sensor, which is used to calculate the measured physical parameter. The system uses a pair of phase locked loops to adjust the phase and the frequency of the energizing signal.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01R 27/32 - Measuring attenuation, gain, phase shift, or derived characteristics of electric four-pole networks, i.e. two-port networksMeasuring transient response in circuits having distributed constants
• G01R 35/00 - Testing or calibrating of apparatus covered by the other groups of this subclass
• G01R 23/12 - Arrangements for measuring frequency, e.g. pulse repetition rateArrangements for measuring period of current or voltage by converting frequency into phase shift

Abstract

A wireless sensor having a primary passive electrical resonant circuit that has an intrinsic electrical property that is variable in response to a characteristic of a patient and a secondary passive electrical resonant circuit. In one aspect, the primary passive resonant circuit can be positioned into a tuned position in response to the actuation of the secondary passive electrical resonant circuit. In a further aspect, in the tuned position, the primary passive electrical resonant circuit, in response to an energizing signal produced by an ex-vivo source of RF energy, is configured to generate a sensor signal characterized by a resonant frequency that is indicative of the characteristic.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01R 35/00 - Testing or calibrating of apparatus covered by the other groups of this subclass

Abstract

A coupling loop or antenna is provided that can be used with a system that determines the resonant frequency of a sensor by adjusting the phase and frequency of an energizing signal until the frequency of the energizing signal matches the resonant frequency of the sensor. In one embodiment orientation features are provided for positioning the coupling loop relative to the sensor to maximize the coupling between the sensor and the coupling loop.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01R 27/28 - Measuring attenuation, gain, phase shift, or derived characteristics of electric four-pole networks, i.e. two-port networksMeasuring transient response

Abstract

Disclosed are hypertension systems and related methods that include a blood pressure sensor located or implanted under the skin of a patient, and electronics, which may have the size and shape of a wrist watch, for example, that monitors the blood pressure of the patient by communicating with the implanted sensor.

IPC Classes  ?

• A61B 5/0215 - Measuring pressure in heart or blood vessels by means inserted into the body
• A61B 5/021 - Measuring pressure in heart or blood vessels
• A61B 5/03 - Measuring fluid pressure within the body other than blood pressure, e.g. cerebral pressure

Abstract

A method of manufacturing a sensor for in vivo applications includes the steps of providing two wafers of an electrically insulating material. A recess is formed in the first wafer, and a capacitor plate is formed in the recess of the first wafer. A second capacitor plate is formed in a corresponding region of the second wafer, and the two wafers are affixed to one another such that the first and second capacitor plates are arranged in parallel, spaced-apart relation.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01G 7/00 - Capacitors in which the capacitance is varied by non-mechanical meansProcesses of their manufacture
• A61B 5/0215 - Measuring pressure in heart or blood vessels by means inserted into the body
• A61B 5/00 - Measuring for diagnostic purposes Identification of persons
• A61N 1/365 - Heart stimulators controlled by a physiological parameter, e.g. by heart potential

Abstract

A coupling loop or antenna is provided that can be used with a system that determines the resonant frequency of a sensor by adjusting the phase and frequency of an energizing signal until the frequency of the energizing signal matches the resonant frequency of the sensor. In one embodiment multiple energizing loops energize an implanted sensor and a sensor coupling loop connected to an input impedance that is at least two times greater than the inductance of the sensor coupling loop receives the sensor signal.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01R 27/28 - Measuring attenuation, gain, phase shift, or derived characteristics of electric four-pole networks, i.e. two-port networksMeasuring transient response

Abstract

Wireless sensors configured to record and transmit data as well as sense and, optionally, actuate to monitor physical properties of an environment and, optionally, effect changes within that environment. In one aspect, the wireless sensor can have a power harvesting unit; a voltage regulation unit, a transducing oscillator unit, and a transmitting coil. The voltage regulation unit is electrically coupled to the power harvesting unit and is configured to actuate at a minimum voltage level. The transducing oscillator unit is electrically coupled to the voltage regulation unit and is configured to convert a sensed physical property into an electrical signal. Also, the transmitting coil is configured to receive the electrical signal and to transmit the electrical signal to an external antenna.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01R 27/28 - Measuring attenuation, gain, phase shift, or derived characteristics of electric four-pole networks, i.e. two-port networksMeasuring transient response

Abstract

This application relates to an apparatus and system for sensing strain on a portion of an implant positioned in a living being. In one aspect, the apparatus has at least one sensor assembly that can be mountable thereon a portion of the implant and that has a passive electrical resonant circuit that can be configured to be selectively electromagnetically coupled to an ex-vivo source of RF energy. Each sensor assembly, in response to the electromagnetic coupling, can be configured to generate an output signal characterized by a frequency that is dependent upon urged movement of a portion of the passive electrical resonant circuit and is indicative of strain applied thereon a portion of the respective sensor assembly.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01R 27/02 - Measuring real or complex resistance, reactance, impedance, or other two-pole characteristics derived therefrom, e.g. time constant

Abstract

A communication system for communicating with an implanted wireless sensor is provided. A transmit antenna element can propagate an energizing signal onto a communication medium and a receive antenna element can recover a responsive implanted sensor response signal. The antenna box includes a power amplifier for amplifying the energizing signal and timing regeneration circuitry for detecting an end to signals and outputting control signals for selecting mode operation. The antenna box can receive the energizing signal from the antenna cable in a transmit mode and provide the implanted sensor response signal to the antenna cable in a receive mode. The antenna box can communicate with an electronic box and/or conversion box that provide and receive signals and provide power via the antenna cable.

IPC Classes  ?

• G08B 13/14 - Mechanical actuation by lifting or attempted removal of hand-portable articles

Abstract

The present invention determines the resonant frequency of a sensor by adjusting the phase and frequency of an energizing signal until the frequency of the energizing signal matches the resonant frequency of the sensor. The system energizes the sensor with a low duty cycle, gated burst of RF energy having a predetermined frequency or set of frequencies and a predetermined amplitude. The energizing signal is coupled to the sensor via magnetic coupling and induces a current in the sensor which oscillates at the resonant frequency of the sensor. The system receives the ring down response of the sensor via magnetic coupling and determines the resonant frequency of the sensor, which is used to calculate the measured physical parameter. The system uses a pair of phase locked loops to adjust the phase and the frequency of the energizing signal.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01R 27/32 - Measuring attenuation, gain, phase shift, or derived characteristics of electric four-pole networks, i.e. two-port networksMeasuring transient response in circuits having distributed constants
• G01R 23/12 - Arrangements for measuring frequency, e.g. pulse repetition rateArrangements for measuring period of current or voltage by converting frequency into phase shift
• H03L 7/06 - Automatic control of frequency or phaseSynchronisation using a reference signal applied to a frequency- or phase-locked loop

Abstract

The present invention determines the resonant frequency of a sensor by adjusting the phase and frequency of an energizing signal until the frequency of the energizing signal matches the resonant frequency of the sensor. The system energizes the sensor with a low duty cycle, gated burst of RF energy having a predetermined frequency or set of frequencies and a predetermined amplitude. The energizing signal is coupled to the sensor via magnetic coupling and induces a current in the sensor which oscillates at the resonant frequency of the sensor. The system receives the ring down response of the sensor via magnetic coupling and determines the resonant frequency of the sensor, which is used to calculate the measured physical parameter. The system uses a pair of phase locked loops to adjust the phase and the frequency of the energizing signal.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01R 27/04 - Measuring real or complex resistance, reactance, impedance, or other two-pole characteristics derived therefrom, e.g. time constant in circuits having distributed constants
• G01R 35/00 - Testing or calibrating of apparatus covered by the other groups of this subclass

Abstract

A pressure cavity is durable, stable, and biocompatible and configured in such a way that it constitutes pico to nanoliter-scale volume. The pressure cavity is hermetically sealed from the exterior environment while maintaining the ability to communicate with other devices. Micromachined, hermetically-sealed sensors are configured to receive power and return information through direct electrical contact with external electronics. The pressure cavity and sensor components disposed therein are hermetically sealed from the ambient in order to reduce drift and instability within the sensor. The sensor is designed for harsh and biological environments, e.g. intracorporeal implantation and in vivo use. Additionally, novel manufacturing methods are employed to construct the sensors.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01L 7/00 - Measuring the steady or quasi-steady pressure of a fluid or a fluent solid material by mechanical or fluid pressure-sensitive elements

Abstract

The present invention determines the resonant frequency of a sensor by adjusting the phase and frequency of an energizing signal until the frequency of the energizing signal matches the resonant frequency of the sensor. The system energizes the sensor with a low duty cycle, gated burst of RF energy having a predetermined frequency or set of frequencies and a predetermined amplitude. The energizing signal is coupled to the sensor via magnetic coupling and induces a current in the sensor which oscillates at the resonant frequency of the sensor. The system receives the ring down response of the sensor via magnetic coupling and determines the resonant frequency of the sensor, which is used to calculate the measured physical parameter. The system uses a pair of phase locked loops to adjust the phase and the frequency of the energizing signal.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01R 23/08 - Arrangements for measuring frequency, e.g. pulse repetition rateArrangements for measuring period of current or voltage by converting frequency into an amplitude of current or voltage using response of circuits tuned off resonance
• G01R 27/26 - Measuring inductance or capacitanceMeasuring quality factor, e.g. by using the resonance methodMeasuring loss factorMeasuring dielectric constants

Abstract

The present invention determines the resonant frequency of a wireless sensor by adjusting the phase and frequency of an energizing signal until the frequency of the energizing signal matches the resonant frequency of the sensor. The system energizes the sensor with a low duty cycle, gated burst of RF energy having a predetermined frequency. The system receives the ring down response of the sensor and determines the resonant frequency of the sensor, which is used to calculate a physical parameter. The system uses a pair of phase locked loops to adjust the phase and the frequency of the energizing signal. The system identifies false locks by detecting an unwanted beat frequency in the coupled signal, as well as determining whether the coupled signal exhibits pulsatile characteristics that correspond to a periodic physiological characteristic, such as blood pressure.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01R 23/12 - Arrangements for measuring frequency, e.g. pulse repetition rateArrangements for measuring period of current or voltage by converting frequency into phase shift

Abstract

A wireless sensor for indicating a physical state within an environment includes a housing defining a hermetically sealed cavity. A structure located within the cavity of the housing has elements providing capacitance, the elements being arranged such that the distance and thereby the capacitance of the structure changes when a physical state of the environment changes. The structure has a resonant frequency based at least in part on the capacitance of the structure when in the presence of a fluctuating electromagnetic field. When the sensor is positioned within an environment and is subjected to a fluctuating electromagnetic field, the resonant frequency indicates the physical state of the environment.

IPC Classes  ?

• A61B 5/02 - Detecting, measuring or recording for evaluating the cardiovascular system, e.g. pulse, heart rate, blood pressure or blood flow
• A61B 5/00 - Measuring for diagnostic purposes Identification of persons
• A61B 5/07 - Endoradiosondes

Abstract

Aspects and embodiments of the present invention provide a system for obtaining, processing and managing data from an implanted sensor. In some embodiments, a patient or other persons can use a flexible antenna to obtain data from the implanted sensor. The flexible antenna includes at least one transmit loop and at least one receive loop. The transmit loop is adapted to propagate energizing signals to the implanted sensor. The receive loop is adapted to detect a response signal from the implanted sensor. The transmit loop includes a capacitor formed by a discontinuous area. The capacitor is adapted to allow the loop to be tuned. The flexible antenna can communicate with a patient device that collects the data from the implanted sensor, creates a data file and transmits the data file to a remote server over a network. A physician or other authorized person may access the remote server using an access device.

IPC Classes  ?

• G08B 1/08 - Systems for signalling characterised solely by the form of transmission of the signal using electric transmission
• G08B 23/00 - Alarms responsive to unspecified undesired or abnormal conditions
• H01Q 7/00 - Loop antennas with a substantially uniform current distribution around the loop and having a directional radiation pattern in a plane perpendicular to the plane of the loop
• H03J 3/04 - Arrangements for compensating for variations of physical values, e.g. temperature

Abstract

Disclosed are methods for attaching an integrated circuit to a substrate, and in particular, a fused silica substrate, along with apparatus fabricated using the methods. Exemplary apparatus comprises a glass substrate, a metallic layer disposed on the substrate, and an integrated circuit eutectically bonded to the glass substrate via the metallic layer. The integrated circuit and fused silica substrate form part of a hermetic sensor. In an exemplary sensor, a first trench is formed in a first substrate. A second trench that is deeper than the first trench is formed in the first substrate. A first plurality of electrodes are formed in the first trench. An integrated circuit is attached to the first substrate within the second trench using a solder preform. The integrated circuit may be attached to the first substrate by depositing a Cr/Au film onto either the integrated circuit or first substrate, depositing a Cr/Ni/Au film onto either the first substrate or integrated circuit, placing the an Au/Sn solder preform onto the Cr/Ni/Au film, positioning the integrated circuit on top of the soldered preform so that it contacts the Cr/Au film, and heating the assembly.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01L 27/14 - Devices consisting of a plurality of semiconductor or other solid-state components formed in or on a common substrate including semiconductor components sensitive to infrared radiation, light, electromagnetic radiation of shorter wavelength or corpuscular radiation and specially adapted either for the conversion of the energy of such radiation into electrical energy

Abstract

Aspects of the present invention determine the resonant frequency of a sensor by obtaining sensor signals in response to three energizing signals, measuring the phase of each sensor signal, and using a group phase delay to determine the resonant frequency. The phase difference between the first and second signal is determined as a first group phase delay. The phase difference between the second and third signal is determined as a second group phase delay. The first group phase delay and second group phase delay are compared. Based on the comparison, the system may lock on the resonant frequency of the sensor or adjust a subsequent set of three energizing signals.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01R 23/12 - Arrangements for measuring frequency, e.g. pulse repetition rateArrangements for measuring period of current or voltage by converting frequency into phase shift
• G01R 35/00 - Testing or calibrating of apparatus covered by the other groups of this subclass

Abstract

The present invention determines the resonant frequency of a sensor by adjusting the phase and frequency of an energizing signal until the frequency of the energizing signal matches the resonant frequency of the sensor. The system energizes the sensor with a low duty cycle, gated burst of RF energy having a predetermined frequency or set of frequencies and a predetermined amplitude. The energizing signal is coupled to the sensor via magnetic coupling and induces a current in the sensor which oscillates at the resonant frequency of the sensor. The system receives the ring down response of the sensor via magnetic coupling and determines the resonant frequency of the sensor, which is used to calculate the measured physical parameter. The system uses a pair of phase locked loops to adjust the phase and the frequency of the energizing signal.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01R 23/12 - Arrangements for measuring frequency, e.g. pulse repetition rateArrangements for measuring period of current or voltage by converting frequency into phase shift
• G01R 35/00 - Testing or calibrating of apparatus covered by the other groups of this subclass

Abstract

The present invention determines the resonant frequency of a sensor by adjusting the phase and frequency of an energizing signal until the frequency of the energizing signal matches the resonant frequency of the sensor. The system energizes the sensor with a low duty cycle, gated burst of RF energy having a predetermined frequency or set of frequencies and a predetermined amplitude. The energizing signal is coupled to the sensor via magnetic coupling and induces a current in the sensor which oscillates at the resonant frequency of the sensor. The system receives the ring down response of the sensor via magnetic coupling and determines the resonant frequency of the sensor, which is used to calculate the measured physical parameter. The system uses a pair of phase locked loops to adjust the phase and the frequency of the energizing signal.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01R 23/12 - Arrangements for measuring frequency, e.g. pulse repetition rateArrangements for measuring period of current or voltage by converting frequency into phase shift
• G01R 35/00 - Testing or calibrating of apparatus covered by the other groups of this subclass

Abstract

An exemplary pressure cavity is disclosed that is durable, stable, and biocompatible and configured in such a way that it constitutes pico to nanoliter-scale volume. The exemplary pressure cavity is hermetically sealed from the exterior environment while maintaining the ability to communicate with other devices. Micromachined, hermetically-sealed sensors are configured to receive power and return information through direct electrical contact with external electronics. The pressure cavity and sensor components disposed therein are hermetically sealed from ambient pressure in order to reduce drift and instability within the sensor. The sensor is designed for harsh and biological environments, e.g., intracorporeal implantation and in vivo use. Additionally, novel manufacturing methods are employed to construct the sensors.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01L 9/00 - Measuring steady or quasi-steady pressure of a fluid or a fluent solid material by electric or magnetic pressure-sensitive elementsTransmitting or indicating the displacement of mechanical pressure-sensitive elements, used to measure the steady or quasi-steady pressure of a fluid or fluent solid material, by electric or magnetic means
• G01L 9/12 - Measuring steady or quasi-steady pressure of a fluid or a fluent solid material by electric or magnetic pressure-sensitive elementsTransmitting or indicating the displacement of mechanical pressure-sensitive elements, used to measure the steady or quasi-steady pressure of a fluid or fluent solid material, by electric or magnetic means by making use of variations in capacitance
• G01L 9/06 - Measuring steady or quasi-steady pressure of a fluid or a fluent solid material by electric or magnetic pressure-sensitive elementsTransmitting or indicating the displacement of mechanical pressure-sensitive elements, used to measure the steady or quasi-steady pressure of a fluid or fluent solid material, by electric or magnetic means by making use of variations in ohmic resistance, e.g. of potentiometers of piezo-resistive devices

Abstract

The present invention determines the resonant frequency of a wireless sensor by adjusting the phase and frequency of an energizing signal until the frequency of the energizing signal matches the resonant frequency of the sensor. The system energizes the sensor with a low duty cycle, gated burst of RF energy having a predetermined frequency. The system receives the ring down response of the sensor and determines the resonant frequency of the sensor, which is used to calculate a physical parameter. The system uses a pair of phase locked loops to adjust the phase and the frequency of the energizing signal. The system identifies false locks by detecting an unwanted beat frequency in the coupled signal, as well as determining whether the coupled signal exhibits pulsatile characteristics that correspond to a periodic physiological characteristic, such as blood pressure.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01R 23/12 - Arrangements for measuring frequency, e.g. pulse repetition rateArrangements for measuring period of current or voltage by converting frequency into phase shift

Abstract

The present invention determines the resonant frequency of a sensor by adjusting the phase and frequency of an energizing signal until the frequency of the energizing signal matches the resonant frequency of the sensor. The system energizes the sensor with a low duty cycle, gated burst of RF energy having a predetermined frequency or set of frequencies and a predetermined amplitude. The energizing signal is coupled to the sensor via magnetic coupling and induces a current in the sensor which oscillates at the resonant frequency of the sensor. The system receives the ring down response of the sensor via magnetic coupling and determines the resonant frequency of the sensor, which is used to calculate the measured physical parameter. The system uses a pair of phase locked loops to adjust the phase and the frequency of the energizing signal.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01R 27/04 - Measuring real or complex resistance, reactance, impedance, or other two-pole characteristics derived therefrom, e.g. time constant in circuits having distributed constants
• G01R 35/00 - Testing or calibrating of apparatus covered by the other groups of this subclass

Abstract

A method of manufacturing a sensor for in vivo applications includes the steps of providing two wafers of an electrically insulating material. A recess is formed in the first wafer, and a capacitor plate is formed in the recess of the first wafer. A second capacitor plate is formed in a corresponding region of the second wafer, and the two wafers are affixed to one another such that the first and second capacitor plates are arranged in parallel, spaced-apart relation.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01R 3/00 - Apparatus or processes specially adapted for the manufacture of measuring instruments

Abstract

A coupling loop or antenna is provided that can be used with a system that determines the resonant frequency of a sensor by adjusting the phase and frequency of an energizing signal until the frequency of the energizing signal matches the resonant frequency of the sensor. The coupling loop includes multiple loops. Preferably two tuned loops are used for transmitting the energizing signal to the sensor and an un-tuned loop is used for receiving the sensor signal from the sensor. Orientation features on the housing for the coupling loop and the sensor are provided to assist in positioning the coupling loop relative to the sensor to maximize the coupling between the sensor signal and the coupling loop.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01R 27/28 - Measuring attenuation, gain, phase shift, or derived characteristics of electric four-pole networks, i.e. two-port networksMeasuring transient response
• H01Q 21/00 - Antenna arrays or systems
• A61N 1/00 - ElectrotherapyCircuits therefor

Abstract

The present invention determines the resonant frequency of a sensor by adjusting the phase and frequency of an energizing signal until the frequency of the energizing signal matches the resonant frequency of the sensor. The system energizes the sensor with a low duty cycle, gated burst of RF energy having a predetermined frequency or set of frequencies and a predetermined amplitude. The energizing signal is coupled to the sensor via magnetic coupling and induces a current in the sensor which oscillates at the resonant frequency of the sensor. The system receives the ring down response of the sensor via magnetic coupling and determines the resonant frequency of the sensor, which is used to calculate the measured physical parameter. The system uses a pair of phase locked loops to adjust the phase and the frequency of the energizing signal.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01R 23/12 - Arrangements for measuring frequency, e.g. pulse repetition rateArrangements for measuring period of current or voltage by converting frequency into phase shift
• G01R 35/00 - Testing or calibrating of apparatus covered by the other groups of this subclass

Abstract

A delivery system for fixation of an implant assembly having an intracorporeal device at a deployment site using an anchoring structure. This invention provides an implant assembly having a an anchor for fixation within a vessel. The anchoring structure adapted to be delivered via a catheter.

IPC Classes  ?

• A61B 5/02 - Detecting, measuring or recording for evaluating the cardiovascular system, e.g. pulse, heart rate, blood pressure or blood flow

Abstract

An implant assembly is implanted in vivo within a vascular system in which a vessel divides at a furcation into two sub-vessels, each sub-vessel having a diameter smaller than the diameter of said vessel. An implant assembly is released into a vessel such as a pulmonary arterial vessel of a patient. The implant assembly has a diameter smaller than or substantially equal to the inner diameter of the vessel and larger than the inner diameter of each of the sub-vessels. The implant assembly is configured so that it moves downstream within the vessel along with the flow of blood. When the implant assembly reaches a furcation where the vessel divides, the implant assembly is too large and not sufficiently compliant to fit through either of the smaller branch vessels. The implant assembly thus lodges at the furcation, prevented from moving downstream by being too large and stiff to fit into the branch vessels, and prevented from moving upstream by the flow of blood through the arteries. Alternatively, the implant assembly has a diameter greater than a vessel and compliance characteristics such that, upon release, the implant assembly travels down a narrowing vessel until an interference fit is created between the anchor structure and the vessel wall, thereby preventing further distal movement.

IPC Classes  ?

• A61B 5/02 - Detecting, measuring or recording for evaluating the cardiovascular system, e.g. pulse, heart rate, blood pressure or blood flow

Abstract

A method of manufacturing a hermetically-sealed chamber with an electrical feedthrough includes the step of hermetically fixing an electrode to a substrate in a predetermined location on the substrate. A passage is formed through the substrate through the predetermined location such that at least a portion of the electrode is exposed to the passage. The passage is then at least partially filled with an electrically conductive material. A housing is then formed including the substrate such that the housing defines a chamber, with the electrode being disposed within the housing and the chamber being hermetically sealed. The electrode within the chamber can be placed in electrical communication with an exterior electrical component by way of the electrically conductive material in the passage.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01L 21/00 - Processes or apparatus specially adapted for the manufacture or treatment of semiconductor or solid-state devices, or of parts thereof