CA1301254C - Adjustable magnetic supercutaneous device and transcutaneous coupling apparatus - Google Patents
Adjustable magnetic supercutaneous device and transcutaneous coupling apparatusInfo
- Publication number
- CA1301254C CA1301254C CA000532225A CA532225A CA1301254C CA 1301254 C CA1301254 C CA 1301254C CA 000532225 A CA000532225 A CA 000532225A CA 532225 A CA532225 A CA 532225A CA 1301254 C CA1301254 C CA 1301254C
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- magnetic element
- magnetic
- case
- supercutaneous
- transcutaneous
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Expired - Fee Related
Links
Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61N—ELECTROTHERAPY; MAGNETOTHERAPY; RADIATION THERAPY; ULTRASOUND THERAPY
- A61N1/00—Electrotherapy; Circuits therefor
- A61N1/18—Applying electric currents by contact electrodes
- A61N1/32—Applying electric currents by contact electrodes alternating or intermittent currents
- A61N1/36—Applying electric currents by contact electrodes alternating or intermittent currents for stimulation
- A61N1/372—Arrangements in connection with the implantation of stimulators
- A61N1/37211—Means for communicating with stimulators
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61N—ELECTROTHERAPY; MAGNETOTHERAPY; RADIATION THERAPY; ULTRASOUND THERAPY
- A61N1/00—Electrotherapy; Circuits therefor
- A61N1/18—Applying electric currents by contact electrodes
- A61N1/32—Applying electric currents by contact electrodes alternating or intermittent currents
- A61N1/36—Applying electric currents by contact electrodes alternating or intermittent currents for stimulation
- A61N1/372—Arrangements in connection with the implantation of stimulators
- A61N1/375—Constructional arrangements, e.g. casings
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61N—ELECTROTHERAPY; MAGNETOTHERAPY; RADIATION THERAPY; ULTRASOUND THERAPY
- A61N1/00—Electrotherapy; Circuits therefor
- A61N1/18—Applying electric currents by contact electrodes
- A61N1/32—Applying electric currents by contact electrodes alternating or intermittent currents
- A61N1/36—Applying electric currents by contact electrodes alternating or intermittent currents for stimulation
- A61N1/372—Arrangements in connection with the implantation of stimulators
- A61N1/378—Electrical supply
- A61N1/3787—Electrical supply from an external energy source
Abstract
Abstract of the Disclosure An externally worn body device adapted to be magnetically held in a supercutaneous position having a case, having a first surface adapted to be adjacent the supercutaneous position. A magnetic device is attached to the case for magnetically holding the case in the supercutaneous position. The magnetic device is moveable with respect to the distance of the magnetic device from the first surface of the case thereby allowing for adjustability in magnetic field strength at the first surface of the case. The magnetic device may be threadably attached to the case for screwably allowing movement of the magnetic device with respect to the first surface of the case. Optionally, the magnetic device may be affixed to the case once suitable adjustment has been made. The externally worn body device may further include a transmitting device positioned within the case for transmitting an electrical signal intended for transcutaneous reception. The externally worn body device may be combined with an implanted subcutaneous member which contains a magnetic device for providing an appropriate magnetic attraction to the corresponding supercutaneous magnetic device. The subcutaneous member may contain a receiving coil designed to cooperate with the transmitting coil of the externally worn body device for the reception of transcutaneous electrical signals.
Description
~ 30~254 4133lCAN5A
ADJUST~BLE MAGNETIC SUPERCUTANEOUS ~EVICE ~ND
TRANSCUTANEOUS COUPLING APPARATUS
. . . _ . . .
Technical Field This invention relates generally to an apparatus for coupling a member implanted in a body with a member located outside of the body. More particularly the present invention is related to magnetic devices for magnetically holding and aligning the external member supercutaneously with respect to an implanted subcutaneous member.
Background Art There exist many devices in which it is desirable to impart an electrical signal to an internal location in a body. One prime example is to facilitate electrical stimulation of the auditory nerve. In these devices, an electrode is imp]anted in or near the cochlea of a patient and an electrical wire transmits electrical signals to the electrode which may ultimately be interpreted by the patient as representations of sound. Other devices in which it is desirable to impart an electrical signal to an internal location in the body may include heart pacers, neuromuscular stimulators and bone growth stimulators. In each of these devices it may be necessary or desirable to impart a subcutaneous electrical signal In order to impart electrical signals across the skin boundary, usually either a percutaneous plug is used to directly connect the wire or else an external device is located supercutaneously proximate an implanted subcutaneous device. Percutaneous plugs generally are not desirable due to the possibility o~ infection. When an external supercutaneous device and an implanted subcutaneous device are used, information may be transmitted electrically across the skin boundary without requiring a direct through the skin wire connection.
Where an external supercutaneous transmitter is utilized in conjunction with an implanted subcutaneous .~
receiver, it is important to hold the external device close to the skin boundary in order to maintain a known constant physical separation between the external transmitter and the implanted receiver. It is also important to maintain accurate ~ateral alignment of the transmitter and receiver with respect to each other. Errors in either of these positioning constraints can cause deteriorations in the signal being received by the implanted subcutaneous receiver.
One known mechanism for holding an external device in place is with an ear hook designed to mechanically hold the external device to the external ear. Similarly, eye glass frame structures have been used to mechanically hold an external device in place. Ilowever, in both of these cases, misalignment is common due to slippage or mechanical displacement of the mechanical device from its intended position.
Another known mechanism for holding an external device in place is described in the United States Patent No. 4,352,960, Dormer et al, Magnetic Transcutaneous Mount for External Device of an Associated Implant.
In Dormer, a magnetic device is located in an implanted receiver and another magnetic device is located in the external transmitter. Magnetic attraction between these two magnetic devices holds the external transmitter closely against the skin and also closely in lateral alignment. Such a system provides advantages in maintaining critical spacing and alignment of an external transmitter with a subcutaneous receiver.
Because of differences in thickness of different individual skin and differences in sensitivities to pressure against the skin, differing magnetic attractive forces for the external devices worn by differing persons are desirable. If an individual's skin thickness is ~30~2~4 greater than the norm, then the spacing between the magnetic devices is greater. In order to provide the same attractive force between the supercutaneous and subcutaneous magnetic devices, a stronger magnetic device either external or implanted is required. Since the implanted magnetic device cannot be readily changed due to the surgery involved usually in order to change the magnetic force of the supercutaneous magnetic device must be Modified. Also, differences in the actual magnetic attractive force are desirable. This is because the attractive magnetic force on one individual may be comfortable but the same magnetic attractive force on another individual may cause skin irritation and soreness.
It is desirable to be able to vary the magnetic attractive force in order to maintain a comfort level but still adequately hold the external device in place.
Disclosure of Invention The present invention provides an externally worn body device adapted to be magnetically held in a supercutaneous position with respect to the body.
The device inc]udes a case having a first surface adapted to be adjacent the supercutaneous position. The device further has a magnetic device attached to the case for magnetically holding the case in the supercutaneous position, the magnetic device being moveable with respect to the distance of the magentic device from the first surface of the case. In a preferred embodiment, the magnetic device is attached to the case by thread means for screwably allowing the movement of the magnetic device with respect to the first surface of the case.
In another preferred embodiment, the thread means are allowed to be fixed after suitable adjustment has been ~30~254 made, as for example, by the use of an adhesive. In another preferred embodiment, the externally worn body device further includes a transmitting device positioned within the case for transmitting an electrical signal intended for transcutaneous reception.
The present invention also provides a transcutaneous coupling apparatus. A first member is positioned subcutaneously with a first magnetic device positioned within the first member for providing an appropriate magnetic attraction to a corresponding supercutaneous magnetic member. A second member is positioned supercutaneously with a first surface adapted to be positioned adjacent the supercutaneous position.
A second magnetic device is attached to the second member for magnetically holding the second member in the supercutaneous position with the second magnetic device being moveable with respect to the distance of the second magnetic device from the first surface of the second member. In a preferred embodiment, the second magnetic device is attached to the second member by thread means for screwably allowing the movement of the second magnetic device with respect to the first surface of the second member. In another preferred embodiment, the second member further includes mechanism applied to the thread means for affixing the second magnetic device in position once suitable adjustment has been made, as for example, an adhesive. In a still preferred embodiment, th transcutaneous coupling apparatus further includes a transmitting device positioned within the second member for transmitting an electrical signal intended for transcutaneous reception and a receiving device positioned within the first member for receiving the electrical signal.
~30~2~4 In either case, the magnetic attrac-tive force provided by the external device may be adjusted by turning the magentic device located in the externally worn body device and, thus, allowing the distance between the magnetic device and the surface of the externally worn body device closest to supercutaneous position to be adjusted by means of the threaded connection. Once adjusted the threads may be secured and further adjustment rendered in operative. Thus, the present invention provides a device which may be easily adjusted in the field for changes in skin thickness. The present invention provides a device which can be adjusted in the field for changes in magnetic field strength attraction to achieve the desired comfort level of the user. The present invention provides a highly adaptable device which eliminates the stocking of a wide variety of separate devices with differing magnetic field strengths.
Drawings .
The foregoing advantages and operation of the present invention will become more readily apparent from the following description and accompanying drawings in which:
Figure 1 is a side view of a trancutaneous coupling apparatus in place across a cutaneous boundary;
Figure 2 is a cross-section of a transcutaneous coupling apparatus in place across a cutaneous boundary;
and Figure 3 is an exploded view of the external body device portion of the transcutaneous coupling apparatus.
Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiments ... . . _ _ The present invention is an improvement over ~3012S~
67878-~
the magnetic device described in United States Patent No.
4,352,960, Dormer et al, ~agnetic Transcutar.eous Mount for External Device of an Associated Implant.
Eigure 1 illustrates the transcutaneous coupling apparatus 10 of the present invention in place across a cutaneous boundary 12 (skin). An internal device 14 is implanted subcutaneously within the body and the cutaneous boundary 12 is replaced to completely cover the internal device 14. An externally worn body device 16 is illustrated positloned supercutaneously next to the cutaneous boundary 12. In a preferred embodiment, the externally worn body device 16 contains a transmitting device designed to transmit an electrical signal designed for transcutaneous reception. The transmitting device within externally worn body device 16 receives electrical signal to be transmitted from an external processor (not shown) via electrical wire 18. In a preferred embodiment, the internal device 14 contains a receiving mechanism for receiving the transmitted cutaneous electrical signal and sending the received signal along electrical wire 20 to an electrode or other implanted device (not shown) where it can be utilized.
Figure 2 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the same transcutaneous coupling apparatus 10 of Figure 1. The transcutaneous coupling apparatus 10, as in Figure 1, is shown in place across a cutaneous boundary 12. Internal device 14 is shown comprising an electrically conductive coil 22 designed to receive a transmitted electrical signal. Also, positioned within internal device 14 is magnetic device 24. In a preferred embodiment, magnetic device 24 is a permanent magnet and in a still preferred embodiment is a permanent magnet of the rare earth type. Internal device 14 is surgically implanted under the cutaneous boundary 12 in a fixed ~30~254 position. With respect to cochlear implants, usually this is achieved by countersinking the mastoid to receive a lip 26 of the internal device 14.
Externally worn body device 16 consists of a case 28 which in a preferred embodiment is adapted to receive an electrically conductive coil 30 coupled to wire 18 which may operate to transmit an electrical signal intended for transcutaneous reception. Securing electrically conductive coil 30 in place is coil cover 32 which may be mechanically stamped into place or held with a suitable adhesive (not shown). Electrically conductive coil 30 has a hollow core into which is inserted magnetic device 34. Case 28 contains internal threads and magnetic device 34 contains matching external threads such that magnetic device 34 may be screwed into or out of case 28 through the hollow core of coil 30.
Positioned within magnetic device 34 is a magnet 36 selected to provide a suitable appropriate magnetic attraction to magnetic device 24 implanted on the other side of the cutaneous boundary 12. With magnet 36 fixed in relation to magnetic device 34, the spacing of magnet 36 to the surface 38 closest the supercutaneous position may be readily adjus-ted by turning the magnetic device 34 in its threaded relationship Wittl case 28. In a preferred embodiment, it may be desirable to fix or secure the relationship of the magnetic device 34 to case 28 when appropriate adjustment has been made. In a preferred embodiment, this may be achieved by applying an adhesive 40 to the threads of magnetic device 34 and case 28.
Magnet 36, which may be one or more rnagnetic elements, may be held in place within magnetic device 34 by magnet cover 42 which may mechanically snap into place or which may be secured by suitable adhesive (not shown).
~30~25~
Alternatively, magnet 36 may be secured by adhesive (not shown) to magnetic device 34.
Figure 3 illustrates an exploded view of externally worn body device 16. Case 28 is internally threaded and adapted to receive magnetic device 34 containing external threads. The exact positioning of magnetic device 34 within case 28 may be additionally facilitated by a slot 44 in the head of magnetic device 34 to allow the use of a screwdriver or other tool to turn magnetic device 34 in threaded relationship with case 28. Magnetic device 34 receives one or more magnets 36 and is covered by magnet cover 42. Surrounding magnetic device 34 and also received into case 28 is electrically conductive coil 30 which is covered by coil cover 32.
A connector 46 is provided on electrically conductive coil 30 to allow suitable connection to electric wire 18 (shown in Figure 2). Magnetic device 34 may be secured, once adjusted, to case 28 by the use of a suitable adhesive 40 or other securing means to affix magnetic device 34 in fixed relationship with case 28.
ADJUST~BLE MAGNETIC SUPERCUTANEOUS ~EVICE ~ND
TRANSCUTANEOUS COUPLING APPARATUS
. . . _ . . .
Technical Field This invention relates generally to an apparatus for coupling a member implanted in a body with a member located outside of the body. More particularly the present invention is related to magnetic devices for magnetically holding and aligning the external member supercutaneously with respect to an implanted subcutaneous member.
Background Art There exist many devices in which it is desirable to impart an electrical signal to an internal location in a body. One prime example is to facilitate electrical stimulation of the auditory nerve. In these devices, an electrode is imp]anted in or near the cochlea of a patient and an electrical wire transmits electrical signals to the electrode which may ultimately be interpreted by the patient as representations of sound. Other devices in which it is desirable to impart an electrical signal to an internal location in the body may include heart pacers, neuromuscular stimulators and bone growth stimulators. In each of these devices it may be necessary or desirable to impart a subcutaneous electrical signal In order to impart electrical signals across the skin boundary, usually either a percutaneous plug is used to directly connect the wire or else an external device is located supercutaneously proximate an implanted subcutaneous device. Percutaneous plugs generally are not desirable due to the possibility o~ infection. When an external supercutaneous device and an implanted subcutaneous device are used, information may be transmitted electrically across the skin boundary without requiring a direct through the skin wire connection.
Where an external supercutaneous transmitter is utilized in conjunction with an implanted subcutaneous .~
receiver, it is important to hold the external device close to the skin boundary in order to maintain a known constant physical separation between the external transmitter and the implanted receiver. It is also important to maintain accurate ~ateral alignment of the transmitter and receiver with respect to each other. Errors in either of these positioning constraints can cause deteriorations in the signal being received by the implanted subcutaneous receiver.
One known mechanism for holding an external device in place is with an ear hook designed to mechanically hold the external device to the external ear. Similarly, eye glass frame structures have been used to mechanically hold an external device in place. Ilowever, in both of these cases, misalignment is common due to slippage or mechanical displacement of the mechanical device from its intended position.
Another known mechanism for holding an external device in place is described in the United States Patent No. 4,352,960, Dormer et al, Magnetic Transcutaneous Mount for External Device of an Associated Implant.
In Dormer, a magnetic device is located in an implanted receiver and another magnetic device is located in the external transmitter. Magnetic attraction between these two magnetic devices holds the external transmitter closely against the skin and also closely in lateral alignment. Such a system provides advantages in maintaining critical spacing and alignment of an external transmitter with a subcutaneous receiver.
Because of differences in thickness of different individual skin and differences in sensitivities to pressure against the skin, differing magnetic attractive forces for the external devices worn by differing persons are desirable. If an individual's skin thickness is ~30~2~4 greater than the norm, then the spacing between the magnetic devices is greater. In order to provide the same attractive force between the supercutaneous and subcutaneous magnetic devices, a stronger magnetic device either external or implanted is required. Since the implanted magnetic device cannot be readily changed due to the surgery involved usually in order to change the magnetic force of the supercutaneous magnetic device must be Modified. Also, differences in the actual magnetic attractive force are desirable. This is because the attractive magnetic force on one individual may be comfortable but the same magnetic attractive force on another individual may cause skin irritation and soreness.
It is desirable to be able to vary the magnetic attractive force in order to maintain a comfort level but still adequately hold the external device in place.
Disclosure of Invention The present invention provides an externally worn body device adapted to be magnetically held in a supercutaneous position with respect to the body.
The device inc]udes a case having a first surface adapted to be adjacent the supercutaneous position. The device further has a magnetic device attached to the case for magnetically holding the case in the supercutaneous position, the magnetic device being moveable with respect to the distance of the magentic device from the first surface of the case. In a preferred embodiment, the magnetic device is attached to the case by thread means for screwably allowing the movement of the magnetic device with respect to the first surface of the case.
In another preferred embodiment, the thread means are allowed to be fixed after suitable adjustment has been ~30~254 made, as for example, by the use of an adhesive. In another preferred embodiment, the externally worn body device further includes a transmitting device positioned within the case for transmitting an electrical signal intended for transcutaneous reception.
The present invention also provides a transcutaneous coupling apparatus. A first member is positioned subcutaneously with a first magnetic device positioned within the first member for providing an appropriate magnetic attraction to a corresponding supercutaneous magnetic member. A second member is positioned supercutaneously with a first surface adapted to be positioned adjacent the supercutaneous position.
A second magnetic device is attached to the second member for magnetically holding the second member in the supercutaneous position with the second magnetic device being moveable with respect to the distance of the second magnetic device from the first surface of the second member. In a preferred embodiment, the second magnetic device is attached to the second member by thread means for screwably allowing the movement of the second magnetic device with respect to the first surface of the second member. In another preferred embodiment, the second member further includes mechanism applied to the thread means for affixing the second magnetic device in position once suitable adjustment has been made, as for example, an adhesive. In a still preferred embodiment, th transcutaneous coupling apparatus further includes a transmitting device positioned within the second member for transmitting an electrical signal intended for transcutaneous reception and a receiving device positioned within the first member for receiving the electrical signal.
~30~2~4 In either case, the magnetic attrac-tive force provided by the external device may be adjusted by turning the magentic device located in the externally worn body device and, thus, allowing the distance between the magnetic device and the surface of the externally worn body device closest to supercutaneous position to be adjusted by means of the threaded connection. Once adjusted the threads may be secured and further adjustment rendered in operative. Thus, the present invention provides a device which may be easily adjusted in the field for changes in skin thickness. The present invention provides a device which can be adjusted in the field for changes in magnetic field strength attraction to achieve the desired comfort level of the user. The present invention provides a highly adaptable device which eliminates the stocking of a wide variety of separate devices with differing magnetic field strengths.
Drawings .
The foregoing advantages and operation of the present invention will become more readily apparent from the following description and accompanying drawings in which:
Figure 1 is a side view of a trancutaneous coupling apparatus in place across a cutaneous boundary;
Figure 2 is a cross-section of a transcutaneous coupling apparatus in place across a cutaneous boundary;
and Figure 3 is an exploded view of the external body device portion of the transcutaneous coupling apparatus.
Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiments ... . . _ _ The present invention is an improvement over ~3012S~
67878-~
the magnetic device described in United States Patent No.
4,352,960, Dormer et al, ~agnetic Transcutar.eous Mount for External Device of an Associated Implant.
Eigure 1 illustrates the transcutaneous coupling apparatus 10 of the present invention in place across a cutaneous boundary 12 (skin). An internal device 14 is implanted subcutaneously within the body and the cutaneous boundary 12 is replaced to completely cover the internal device 14. An externally worn body device 16 is illustrated positloned supercutaneously next to the cutaneous boundary 12. In a preferred embodiment, the externally worn body device 16 contains a transmitting device designed to transmit an electrical signal designed for transcutaneous reception. The transmitting device within externally worn body device 16 receives electrical signal to be transmitted from an external processor (not shown) via electrical wire 18. In a preferred embodiment, the internal device 14 contains a receiving mechanism for receiving the transmitted cutaneous electrical signal and sending the received signal along electrical wire 20 to an electrode or other implanted device (not shown) where it can be utilized.
Figure 2 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the same transcutaneous coupling apparatus 10 of Figure 1. The transcutaneous coupling apparatus 10, as in Figure 1, is shown in place across a cutaneous boundary 12. Internal device 14 is shown comprising an electrically conductive coil 22 designed to receive a transmitted electrical signal. Also, positioned within internal device 14 is magnetic device 24. In a preferred embodiment, magnetic device 24 is a permanent magnet and in a still preferred embodiment is a permanent magnet of the rare earth type. Internal device 14 is surgically implanted under the cutaneous boundary 12 in a fixed ~30~254 position. With respect to cochlear implants, usually this is achieved by countersinking the mastoid to receive a lip 26 of the internal device 14.
Externally worn body device 16 consists of a case 28 which in a preferred embodiment is adapted to receive an electrically conductive coil 30 coupled to wire 18 which may operate to transmit an electrical signal intended for transcutaneous reception. Securing electrically conductive coil 30 in place is coil cover 32 which may be mechanically stamped into place or held with a suitable adhesive (not shown). Electrically conductive coil 30 has a hollow core into which is inserted magnetic device 34. Case 28 contains internal threads and magnetic device 34 contains matching external threads such that magnetic device 34 may be screwed into or out of case 28 through the hollow core of coil 30.
Positioned within magnetic device 34 is a magnet 36 selected to provide a suitable appropriate magnetic attraction to magnetic device 24 implanted on the other side of the cutaneous boundary 12. With magnet 36 fixed in relation to magnetic device 34, the spacing of magnet 36 to the surface 38 closest the supercutaneous position may be readily adjus-ted by turning the magnetic device 34 in its threaded relationship Wittl case 28. In a preferred embodiment, it may be desirable to fix or secure the relationship of the magnetic device 34 to case 28 when appropriate adjustment has been made. In a preferred embodiment, this may be achieved by applying an adhesive 40 to the threads of magnetic device 34 and case 28.
Magnet 36, which may be one or more rnagnetic elements, may be held in place within magnetic device 34 by magnet cover 42 which may mechanically snap into place or which may be secured by suitable adhesive (not shown).
~30~25~
Alternatively, magnet 36 may be secured by adhesive (not shown) to magnetic device 34.
Figure 3 illustrates an exploded view of externally worn body device 16. Case 28 is internally threaded and adapted to receive magnetic device 34 containing external threads. The exact positioning of magnetic device 34 within case 28 may be additionally facilitated by a slot 44 in the head of magnetic device 34 to allow the use of a screwdriver or other tool to turn magnetic device 34 in threaded relationship with case 28. Magnetic device 34 receives one or more magnets 36 and is covered by magnet cover 42. Surrounding magnetic device 34 and also received into case 28 is electrically conductive coil 30 which is covered by coil cover 32.
A connector 46 is provided on electrically conductive coil 30 to allow suitable connection to electric wire 18 (shown in Figure 2). Magnetic device 34 may be secured, once adjusted, to case 28 by the use of a suitable adhesive 40 or other securing means to affix magnetic device 34 in fixed relationship with case 28.
Claims (14)
1. An externally worn body device adapted to be magnetically held in a supercutaneous position in lateral alignment with a subcutaneous first magnetic element, comprising:
a case having a first surface adapted to be adjacent said supercutaneous position; a second magnetic element attached to said case for magnetically holding said externally worn body device in said supercutaneous position proximate to said subcutaneous first magnetic element, holding said externally worn body device in lateral alignment with said subcutaneous first magnetic element, said magnetic element being axially aligned with said subcutaneous first magnetic element and providing direct axial magnetic attraction to said subcutaneous first magnetic element and being moveable with respect to the distance from said magnetic means to said first surface of said first surface of said case for changing the magnetic field strength attraction between said second magnetic element and said subcutaneous first magnetic element.
a case having a first surface adapted to be adjacent said supercutaneous position; a second magnetic element attached to said case for magnetically holding said externally worn body device in said supercutaneous position proximate to said subcutaneous first magnetic element, holding said externally worn body device in lateral alignment with said subcutaneous first magnetic element, said magnetic element being axially aligned with said subcutaneous first magnetic element and providing direct axial magnetic attraction to said subcutaneous first magnetic element and being moveable with respect to the distance from said magnetic means to said first surface of said first surface of said case for changing the magnetic field strength attraction between said second magnetic element and said subcutaneous first magnetic element.
2. An externally worn body device as in claim 1 wherein said second magnetic element is attached to said case by thread means for screwably allowing movement of said second magnetic element with respect to said first surface of said case.
3. An externally worn body device as in claim 2 which further comprises securing means applied to said thread means for affixing said second magnetic element in position once suitable adjustment has been made.
4. An externally worn body device as in claim 3 wherein said securing means comprises an adhesive.
5. An externally worn body device as in claim 2 which further comprises transmitting means positioned within said case for transmitting an electrical signal intended for transcutaneous reception.
6. An externally worn body device as in claim 2 wherein said magnetic element comprises at least one permanent magnet.
7. A transcutaneous coupling apparatus, comprising, a first member adapted to be positioned subcutaneously; a first magnetic element positioned within said first member for providing an appropriate magnetic attraction to a corresponding supercutaneous magnetic member; a second member having a first surface adapted to be positioned adjacent said supercutaneous position; and a second magnetic element attached to said second member for magnetically holding said second member in said supercutaneous position with said second magnetic element in lateral alignment with said first magnetic element, said second magnetic element being moveable with respect to the distance from said second magnetic element to said first surface of said second member for changing the magnetic field strength attraction between said second magnetic element and said first magnetic element, said second magnetic element being axially aligned with said first magnetic element and providing direct axial magnetic attraction to said first magnetic element.
8. A transcutaneous coupling apparatus as in claim 7 wherein said second magnetic element is attached to said second member by thread means or screwably allowing movement of said second magnetic element with respect to said first surface of said second member.
9. A transcutaneous coupling apparatus as in claim 8 which further comprises securing means applied to said thread means for affixing said second magnetic element in position once suitable adjustment has been made.
10. A transcutaneous coupling apparatus as in claim 9 wherein said securing means comprises an adhesive.
11. A transcutaneous coupling apparatus as in claim 8 in which said second member further comprises transmitting means positioned within said second member for transmitting an electrical signal intended for transcutaneous reception and in which said first member further comprises receiving means positioned within said first member for receiving said electrical signal.
12. A transcutaneous coupling apparatus as in claim 8 wherein said first maynetic element and said second magnetic element each comprise a permanent magnet.
13. A transcutaneous coupling apparatus as in claim 11 wherein said transmitting means comprises an electrically conductive coil having a hollow core.
14. A transcutaneous coupling apparatus as in claim 13 wherein said second magnetic element is moveable within said hollow core of said conductive coil.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US06/850,868 US4736747A (en) | 1986-04-11 | 1986-04-11 | Adjustable magnetic supercutaneous device and transcutaneous coupling apparatus |
| US850,868 | 1986-04-11 |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA1301254C true CA1301254C (en) | 1992-05-19 |
Family
ID=25309321
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA000532225A Expired - Fee Related CA1301254C (en) | 1986-04-11 | 1987-03-17 | Adjustable magnetic supercutaneous device and transcutaneous coupling apparatus |
Country Status (6)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| US (1) | US4736747A (en) |
| EP (1) | EP0241307B1 (en) |
| JP (1) | JPH0728924B2 (en) |
| AU (1) | AU7014787A (en) |
| CA (1) | CA1301254C (en) |
| DE (1) | DE3787915T2 (en) |
Families Citing this family (75)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DE69011753T2 (en) * | 1989-06-07 | 1995-02-16 | Assistance Publique | Transcutaneous connection device. |
| US5350413B1 (en) * | 1990-06-21 | 1999-09-07 | Heart Inst Research Corp | Transcutaneous energy transfer device |
| WO1997005673A1 (en) * | 1995-08-01 | 1997-02-13 | Cochlear Pty. Limited | Electrical connector for therapeutic devices |
| US5741336A (en) * | 1996-08-27 | 1998-04-21 | Fraser; William A. | Magnetically secured hairpieces |
| US5741316A (en) * | 1996-12-02 | 1998-04-21 | Light Sciences Limited Partnership | Electromagnetic coil configurations for power transmission through tissue |
| US20020120332A1 (en) * | 2000-12-21 | 2002-08-29 | Law Tom J. | Method and apparatus for securing external device to patient |
| WO2003081976A2 (en) | 2002-04-01 | 2003-10-09 | Med-El Elektromedizinische Geräte GmbH | Reducing effect of magnetic and electromagnetic fields on an implants magnet and/or electronic |
| AU2003901696A0 (en) * | 2003-04-09 | 2003-05-01 | Cochlear Limited | Implant magnet system |
| US8270647B2 (en) | 2003-05-08 | 2012-09-18 | Advanced Bionics, Llc | Modular speech processor headpiece |
| JP4326844B2 (en) * | 2003-06-10 | 2009-09-09 | 本田技研工業株式会社 | Control device for internal combustion engine |
| AU2003902964A0 (en) * | 2003-06-13 | 2003-06-26 | Cochlear Limited | Adjustment mechanism for a coil magnet |
| US7286881B2 (en) * | 2003-10-02 | 2007-10-23 | Medtronic, Inc. | External power source having an adjustable magnetic core and method of use |
| US7286880B2 (en) * | 2003-10-02 | 2007-10-23 | Medtronic, Inc. | System and method for transcutaneous energy transfer achieving high efficiency |
| US20050075696A1 (en) | 2003-10-02 | 2005-04-07 | Medtronic, Inc. | Inductively rechargeable external energy source, charger, system and method for a transcutaneous inductive charger for an implantable medical device |
| US8428723B2 (en) * | 2004-06-03 | 2013-04-23 | Cochlear Limited | External coil assembly for a transcutaneous system |
| US7932798B2 (en) * | 2005-03-14 | 2011-04-26 | Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V. | System, an inductive power device, an energizable load and a method for enabling a wireless power transfer |
| SE531177C2 (en) | 2007-05-24 | 2009-01-13 | Cochlear Ltd | Distance for implants |
| FR2931076B1 (en) * | 2008-05-15 | 2010-06-25 | Neurelec | IMPLANTABLE SUB-CUTANE DEVICE |
| US8616134B2 (en) | 2009-01-23 | 2013-12-31 | Magnemotion, Inc. | Transport system powered by short block linear synchronous motors |
| US8967051B2 (en) * | 2009-01-23 | 2015-03-03 | Magnemotion, Inc. | Transport system powered by short block linear synchronous motors and switching mechanism |
| US9032880B2 (en) | 2009-01-23 | 2015-05-19 | Magnemotion, Inc. | Transport system powered by short block linear synchronous motors and switching mechanism |
| WO2010105601A2 (en) * | 2009-03-15 | 2010-09-23 | Ralf Siegert | Aid for shimming magnetic discs |
| WO2012010195A1 (en) | 2010-07-19 | 2012-01-26 | Advanced Bionics Ag | Hearing instrument and method of operating the same |
| CA2831138C (en) | 2011-04-04 | 2022-02-15 | Stimwave Technologies Incorporated | Implantable lead |
| US20120294466A1 (en) * | 2011-05-18 | 2012-11-22 | Stefan Kristo | Temporary anchor for a hearing prosthesis |
| KR101668925B1 (en) | 2011-06-07 | 2016-10-24 | 마그네모션, 인코포레이티드 | Versatile control of a linear synchronous motor propulsion system |
| CA2848998A1 (en) | 2011-09-15 | 2013-03-21 | Stimwave Technologies Incorporated | Relay module for implant |
| EP2592848B1 (en) * | 2011-11-08 | 2019-06-26 | Oticon Medical A/S | Acoustic transmission method and listening device. |
| US9031274B2 (en) | 2012-09-06 | 2015-05-12 | Sophono, Inc. | Adhesive bone conduction hearing device |
| US9022917B2 (en) | 2012-07-16 | 2015-05-05 | Sophono, Inc. | Magnetic spacer systems, devices, components and methods for bone conduction hearing aids |
| US9119010B2 (en) | 2011-12-09 | 2015-08-25 | Sophono, Inc. | Implantable sound transmission device for magnetic hearing aid, and corresponding systems, devices and components |
| US9179228B2 (en) | 2011-12-09 | 2015-11-03 | Sophono, Inc. | Systems devices, components and methods for providing acoustic isolation between microphones and transducers in bone conduction magnetic hearing aids |
| US9736601B2 (en) | 2012-07-16 | 2017-08-15 | Sophono, Inc. | Adjustable magnetic systems, devices, components and methods for bone conduction hearing aids |
| US9258656B2 (en) | 2011-12-09 | 2016-02-09 | Sophono, Inc. | Sound acquisition and analysis systems, devices and components for magnetic hearing aids |
| US9210521B2 (en) | 2012-07-16 | 2015-12-08 | Sophono, Inc. | Abutment attachment systems, mechanisms, devices, components and methods for bone conduction hearing aids |
| US9526810B2 (en) | 2011-12-09 | 2016-12-27 | Sophono, Inc. | Systems, devices, components and methods for improved acoustic coupling between a bone conduction hearing device and a patient's head or skull |
| US10383990B2 (en) | 2012-07-27 | 2019-08-20 | Tc1 Llc | Variable capacitor for resonant power transfer systems |
| WO2014018969A2 (en) | 2012-07-27 | 2014-01-30 | Thoratec Corporation | Resonant power transfer system and method of estimating system state |
| EP2878062A4 (en) | 2012-07-27 | 2016-04-20 | Thoratec Corp | Resonant power transmission coils and systems |
| EP2878061B1 (en) | 2012-07-27 | 2023-10-25 | Tc1 Llc | Thermal management for implantable wireless power transfer systems |
| US9287040B2 (en) | 2012-07-27 | 2016-03-15 | Thoratec Corporation | Self-tuning resonant power transfer systems |
| WO2014018971A1 (en) | 2012-07-27 | 2014-01-30 | Thoratec Corporation | Resonant power transfer systems with protective algorithm |
| US10291067B2 (en) | 2012-07-27 | 2019-05-14 | Tc1 Llc | Computer modeling for resonant power transfer systems |
| US9805863B2 (en) | 2012-07-27 | 2017-10-31 | Thoratec Corporation | Magnetic power transmission utilizing phased transmitter coil arrays and phased receiver coil arrays |
| US9254393B2 (en) * | 2012-12-26 | 2016-02-09 | Micron Devices Llc | Wearable antenna assembly |
| WO2014145895A1 (en) | 2013-03-15 | 2014-09-18 | Thoratec Corporation | Malleable tets coil with improved anatomical fit |
| WO2014145664A1 (en) | 2013-03-15 | 2014-09-18 | Thoratec Corporation | Integrated implantable tets housing including fins and coil loops |
| CN105813886B (en) | 2013-09-21 | 2018-04-03 | 麦克纳莫绅有限公司 | Transported for packing with the linear electric machine of other purposes |
| US11412334B2 (en) | 2013-10-23 | 2022-08-09 | Cochlear Limited | Contralateral sound capture with respect to stimulation energy source |
| JP6521992B2 (en) | 2013-11-11 | 2019-05-29 | ティーシー１ エルエルシー | Resonance power transmission system having communication |
| JP6516765B2 (en) | 2013-11-11 | 2019-05-22 | ティーシー１ エルエルシー | Resonant power transmission coil with hinge |
| US10615642B2 (en) | 2013-11-11 | 2020-04-07 | Tc1 Llc | Resonant power transfer systems with communications |
| WO2015134871A1 (en) | 2014-03-06 | 2015-09-11 | Thoratec Corporation | Electrical connectors for implantable devices |
| CN112822620A (en) | 2014-05-27 | 2021-05-18 | 索飞诺股份有限公司 | Systems, devices, components, and methods for reducing feedback between a microphone and a transducer in a bone conduction magnetic hearing assistance device |
| US20150382114A1 (en) * | 2014-06-25 | 2015-12-31 | Marcus ANDERSSON | System for adjusting magnetic retention force in auditory prostheses |
| US10469963B2 (en) * | 2014-08-28 | 2019-11-05 | Cochlear Limited | Suspended components in auditory prostheses |
| CN107106748B (en) * | 2014-09-18 | 2020-05-05 | 心脏器械股份有限公司 | Implant device with wireless energy transfer and external alignment features |
| US10186760B2 (en) | 2014-09-22 | 2019-01-22 | Tc1 Llc | Antenna designs for communication between a wirelessly powered implant to an external device outside the body |
| US9583874B2 (en) | 2014-10-06 | 2017-02-28 | Thoratec Corporation | Multiaxial connector for implantable devices |
| US10130807B2 (en) | 2015-06-12 | 2018-11-20 | Cochlear Limited | Magnet management MRI compatibility |
| US20160381473A1 (en) | 2015-06-26 | 2016-12-29 | Johan Gustafsson | Magnetic retention device |
| US10148126B2 (en) | 2015-08-31 | 2018-12-04 | Tc1 Llc | Wireless energy transfer system and wearables |
| US10917730B2 (en) | 2015-09-14 | 2021-02-09 | Cochlear Limited | Retention magnet system for medical device |
| EP3902100A1 (en) | 2015-10-07 | 2021-10-27 | Tc1 Llc | Resonant power transfer systems having efficiency optimization based on receiver impedance |
| WO2017105511A1 (en) | 2015-12-18 | 2017-06-22 | Advanced Bionics Ag | Cochlear implants having mri-compatible magnet apparatus |
| US10576276B2 (en) | 2016-04-29 | 2020-03-03 | Cochlear Limited | Implanted magnet management in the face of external magnetic fields |
| WO2018057563A1 (en) | 2016-09-21 | 2018-03-29 | Tc1 Llc | Systems and methods for locating implanted wireless power transmission devices |
| US11595768B2 (en) | 2016-12-02 | 2023-02-28 | Cochlear Limited | Retention force increasing components |
| US11197990B2 (en) | 2017-01-18 | 2021-12-14 | Tc1 Llc | Systems and methods for transcutaneous power transfer using microneedles |
| WO2018190813A1 (en) | 2017-04-11 | 2018-10-18 | Advanced Bionics Ag | Cochlear implants with retrofit magnets |
| EP3615132B1 (en) | 2017-04-25 | 2022-09-21 | Advanced Bionics AG | Cochlear implants having impact resistant mri-compatible magnet apparatus |
| US11471679B2 (en) | 2017-10-26 | 2022-10-18 | Advanced Bionics Ag | Headpieces and implantable cochlear stimulation systems including the same |
| EP3735733B1 (en) | 2018-01-04 | 2024-01-17 | Tc1 Llc | Systems and methods for elastic wireless power transmission devices |
| US20210046311A1 (en) | 2018-02-15 | 2021-02-18 | Advanced Bionics Ag | Headpieces and implantable cochlear stimulation systems including the same |
| WO2023135465A1 (en) * | 2022-01-11 | 2023-07-20 | Cochlear Limited | System and method for determining magnetic retention force for medical device |
Family Cites Families (9)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US3419008A (en) * | 1966-02-24 | 1968-12-31 | Paul J. Plishner | Magnetically actuated valve clamp for urethra control |
| US3581742A (en) * | 1968-06-11 | 1971-06-01 | Medical Services Inc | Intermittent positive pressure breathing device |
| US3814156A (en) * | 1971-09-27 | 1974-06-04 | Loctite Corp | Threaded articles with locking or sealing coatings |
| US3952726A (en) * | 1973-12-20 | 1976-04-27 | Gerhard R. Hennig | Medical device |
| US4258705A (en) * | 1978-09-15 | 1981-03-31 | Coloplast A/S | Magnetic system for use in sealing body openings |
| FR2479683A1 (en) * | 1980-04-03 | 1981-10-09 | Knell Otto | Artificial bowel outlet cover - is made in halves screwing together with de-odorising filter in chamber formed between them |
| US4352960A (en) * | 1980-09-30 | 1982-10-05 | Baptist Medical Center Of Oklahoma, Inc. | Magnetic transcutaneous mount for external device of an associated implant |
| US4550731A (en) * | 1984-03-07 | 1985-11-05 | Cordis Corporation | Acquisition circuit for cardiac pacer |
| NL8403174A (en) * | 1984-10-17 | 1986-05-16 | Franciscus Jacobus Maria De Vr | IMPLANTABLE SEALING DEVICE. |
-
1986
- 1986-04-11 US US06/850,868 patent/US4736747A/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
-
1987
- 1987-03-17 CA CA000532225A patent/CA1301254C/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 1987-03-18 AU AU70147/87A patent/AU7014787A/en not_active Abandoned
- 1987-04-10 DE DE87303163T patent/DE3787915T2/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 1987-04-10 EP EP87303163A patent/EP0241307B1/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 1987-04-10 JP JP62087268A patent/JPH0728924B2/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| JPS62246378A (en) | 1987-10-27 |
| DE3787915D1 (en) | 1993-12-02 |
| AU7014787A (en) | 1987-10-15 |
| US4736747A (en) | 1988-04-12 |
| JPH0728924B2 (en) | 1995-04-05 |
| EP0241307A2 (en) | 1987-10-14 |
| EP0241307A3 (en) | 1990-05-30 |
| DE3787915T2 (en) | 1994-05-11 |
| EP0241307B1 (en) | 1993-10-27 |
Similar Documents
| Publication | Publication Date | Title |
|---|---|---|
| CA1301254C (en) | Adjustable magnetic supercutaneous device and transcutaneous coupling apparatus | |
| US4726378A (en) | Adjustable magnetic supercutaneous device and transcutaneous coupling apparatus | |
| US11090498B2 (en) | Implant magnet system | |
| EP1425939B1 (en) | A coupling device for a two-part bone-anchored hearing aid apparatus | |
| US7881800B2 (en) | Cochlear implant having a repositionable implantable housing | |
| US7856986B2 (en) | Magnetic alignment apparatus for a transcutaneous transfer system | |
| AU2011242708B2 (en) | MRI-safe disk magnet for implants | |
| US5906635A (en) | Electromagnetic implantable hearing device for improvement of partial and total sensoryneural hearing loss | |
| US20040133065A1 (en) | Retention apparatus for an external portion of a semi-implantable hearing aid | |
| US20230032218A1 (en) | Headpieces and implantable cochlear stimulation systems including the same | |
| WO2003092326A1 (en) | Mri-compatible cochlear implant | |
| AU2003238608B9 (en) | Implantable device with flexible interconnect to coil | |
| JPS61273100A (en) | Hearing aid | |
| EP4215240A1 (en) | Multipole magnet for medical implant system | |
| EP3219114B1 (en) | Incus short process attachment for implantable floating mass transducer | |
| US7212866B1 (en) | Implantable neurostimulator having data repeater for long range control and data streaming | |
| US11425514B2 (en) | Universal bone conduction and middle ear implant | |
| KR101956849B1 (en) | Bioartificial implant system |
Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| MKLA | Lapsed |