U.S. patent application number 15/449351 was filed with the patent office on 2017-08-24 for system for powering devices from intraluminal pressure changes.
The applicant listed for this patent is DEEP SCIENCE, LLC. Invention is credited to Roderick A. Hyde, Muriel Y Ishikawa, Eric C. Leuthardt, Michael A. Smith, Lowell L. Wood, JR., Victoria Y.H. Wood.
Application Number | 20170241411 15/449351 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 42230277 |
Filed Date | 2017-08-24 |
United States Patent
Application |
20170241411 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Hyde; Roderick A. ; et
al. |
August 24, 2017 |
SYSTEM FOR POWERING DEVICES FROM INTRALUMINAL PRESSURE CHANGES
Abstract
A system for utilizing power extracted from intraluminal
pressure changes may comprise: (a) an intraluminal generator; (b)
an intraluminal pressure change-receiving structure operably
coupled to the intraluminal generator; and (c) a power utilization
device. A system for utilizing power extracted from intraluminal
pressure changes may comprise: (a) means for receiving an
intraluminal pressure change; (b) means for converting an
intraluminal pressure change into energy with an intraluminal
generator; and (c) means for providing the energy to a power
utilization device.
Inventors: |
Hyde; Roderick A.; (Redmond,
WA) ; Ishikawa; Muriel Y; (Livermore, CA) ;
Leuthardt; Eric C.; (St. Louis, MO) ; Smith; Michael
A.; (Phoenix, AZ) ; Wood, JR.; Lowell L.;
(Bellevue, WA) ; Wood; Victoria Y.H.; (Livermore,
CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
DEEP SCIENCE, LLC |
Bellevue |
WA |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
42230277 |
Appl. No.: |
15/449351 |
Filed: |
March 3, 2017 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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12462796 |
Aug 7, 2009 |
9631610 |
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15449351 |
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12462789 |
Aug 7, 2009 |
9526418 |
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12462796 |
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12455669 |
Jun 4, 2009 |
9353733 |
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12462789 |
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12386054 |
Apr 13, 2009 |
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12455669 |
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12315616 |
Dec 4, 2008 |
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12386054 |
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12315631 |
Dec 4, 2008 |
9567983 |
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12315616 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
F03G 7/04 20130101; H02J
5/00 20130101; H02J 7/34 20130101 |
International
Class: |
F03G 7/04 20060101
F03G007/04; H02J 7/34 20060101 H02J007/34; H02J 5/00 20060101
H02J005/00 |
Claims
1.-98. (canceled)
99. A system comprising: an intraluminal generator including an
intraluminal pressure change-receiving structure, the intraluminal
generator configured to generate energy in response to deformation
of the intraluminal pressure change-receiving structure; an energy
storage apparatus operably coupled to the intraluminal generator
and configured to store energy generated by the intraluminal
generator; and a power utilization device operably coupled to at
least one of the intraluminal generator or the energy storage
apparatus.
100. The system of claim 99, wherein the energy storage apparatus
is configured to be at least partially external to a lumen in which
the intraluminal generator is disposed.
101. The system of claim 99, wherein the power utilization device
is configured to be at least partially external to a lumen in which
the intraluminal generator is disposed.
102. The system of claim 99, further comprising a power converter
operably coupled to the intraluminal generator.
103. The system of claim 102, wherein the power converter includes
an AC-to-DC power converter.
104. The system of claim 102, wherein the power converter includes
an DC-to-AC power converter.
105. The system of claim 102, wherein the power converter is also
operably coupled to the energy storage apparatus.
106. The system of claim 102, wherein the power converter is also
operably coupled to the power utilization device.
107. The system of claim 99, wherein the power utilization device
is operably coupled to the intraluminal generator and configured to
receive energy generated by the intraluminal generator.
108. The system of claim 99, wherein the power utilization device
is operably coupled to the energy storage apparatus and configured
to receive stored energy from the energy storage apparatus.
109. A system comprising: an intraluminal pressure change-receiving
structure; an intraluminal generator operably coupled to the
intraluminal pressure change-receiving structure, the intraluminal
generator configured to generate energy in response to deformation
of the intraluminal pressure change-receiving structure; an energy
storage apparatus operably coupled to the intraluminal generator
and configured to store energy generated by the intraluminal
generator; and a power utilization device operably coupled to at
least one of the intraluminal generator or the energy storage
apparatus.
110. The system of claim 109, wherein the energy storage apparatus
is configured to be at least partially external to a lumen in which
the intraluminal generator is disposed.
111. The system of claim 109, wherein the power utilization device
is configured to be at least partially external to a lumen in which
the intraluminal generator is disposed.
112. The system of claim 109, further comprising a power converter
operably coupled to the intraluminal generator.
113. The system of claim 112, wherein the power converter includes
an AC-to-DC power converter.
114. The system of claim 112, wherein the power converter includes
an DC-to-AC power converter.
115. The system of claim 112, wherein the power converter is also
operably coupled to the energy storage apparatus.
116. The system of claim 112, wherein the power converter is also
operably coupled to the power utilization device.
117. The system of claim 109, wherein the power utilization device
is operably coupled to the intraluminal generator and configured to
receive energy generated by the intraluminal generator.
118. The system of claim 109, wherein the power utilization device
is operably coupled to the energy storage apparatus and configured
to receive stored energy from the energy storage apparatus.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] The present application is related to and claims the benefit
of the earliest available effective filing date(s) from the
following listed application(s) (the "Related Applications") (e.g.,
claims earliest available priority dates for other than provisional
patent applications or claims benefits under 35 USC .sctn.119(e)
for provisional patent applications, for any and all parent,
grandparent, great-grandparent, etc. applications of the Related
Application(s)).
RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0002] For purposes of the USPTO extra-statutory requirements, the
present application constitutes a continuation-in-part of the U.S.
patent application having United States Postal Service Express Mail
No. EM 260722709, titled Method for Generation of Power from
Intraluminal Pressure Changes, naming Roderick A. Hyde, Muriel Y.
Ishikawa, Eric C. Leuthardt, Michael A. Smith, Lowell L. Wood, Jr.
and Victoria Y. H. Wood as inventors, filed Dec. 4, 2008, which is
currently co-pending, or is an application of which a currently
co-pending application is entitled to the benefit of the filing
date.
[0003] For purposes of the USPTO extra-statutory requirements, the
present application constitutes a continuation-in-part of U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 12/315,616, titled "Method for
Generation of Power from Intraluminal Pressure Changes", naming
Roderick A. Hyde, Muriel Y. Ishikawa, Eric C. Leuthardt, Michael A.
Smith, Lowell L. Wood, Jr. and Victoria Y. H. Wood as inventors,
filed Dec. 4, 2008, which is currently co-pending, or is an
application of which a currently co-pending application is entitled
to the benefit of the filing date.
[0004] For purposes of the USPTO extra-statutory requirements, the
present application constitutes a continuation-in-part of U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 12/386,054, titled "Method for
Generation of Power from Intraluminal Pressure Changes", naming
Roderick A. Hyde, Muriel Y. Ishikawa, Eric C. Leuthardt, Michael A.
Smith, Lowell L. Wood, Jr. and Victoria Y. H. Wood as inventors,
filed Apr. 13, 2009, which is currently co-pending, or is an
application of which a currently co-pending application is entitled
to the benefit of the filing date.
[0005] For purposes of the USPTO extra-statutory requirements, the
present application constitutes a continuation-in-part of U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 12/455,699, titled "Device for
Generation of Power from Intraluminal Pressure Changes", naming
Roderick A. Hyde, Muriel Y. Ishikawa, Eric C. Leuthardt, Michael A.
Smith, Lowell L. Wood, Jr. and Victoria Y. H. Wood as inventors,
filed Jun. 4, 2009, which is currently co-pending, or is an
application of which a currently co-pending application is entitled
to the benefit of the filing date.
[0006] For purposes of the USPTO extra-statutory requirements, the
present application constitutes a continuation-in-part of the
patent application associated with United States Postal Service
Express Mail No. EM 316812637US, titled "Device for Storage of
Intraluminally Generated Power Pressure Changes", naming Roderick
A. Hyde, Muriel Y. Ishikawa, Eric C. Leuthardt, Michael A. Smith,
Lowell L. Wood, Jr. and Victoria Y. H. Wood as inventors, filed
Aug. 7, 2009, which is currently co-pending, or is an application
of which a currently co-pending application is entitled to the
benefit of the filing date.
[0007] The United States Patent Office (USPTO) has published a
notice to the effect that the USPTO's computer programs require
that patent applicants reference both a serial number and indicate
whether an application is a continuation or continuation-in-part.
Stephen G. Kunin, Benefit of Prior-Filed Application, USPTO
Official Gazette Mar. 18, 2003, available at
http://www.uspto.gov/web/offices/com/sol/og/2003/week11/patbene.htm.
The present Applicant Entity (hereinafter "Applicant") has provided
above a specific reference to the application(s) from which
priority is being claimed as recited by statute. Applicant
understands that the statute is unambiguous in its specific
reference language and does not require either a serial number or
any characterization, such as "continuation" or
"continuation-in-part," for claiming priority to U.S. patent
applications. Notwithstanding the foregoing, Applicant understands
that the USPTO's computer programs have certain data entry
requirements, and hence Applicant is designating the present
application as a continuation-in-part of its parent applications as
set forth above, but expressly points out that such designations
are not to be construed in any way as any type of commentary and/or
admission as to whether or not the present application contains any
new matter in addition to the matter of its parent
application(s).
[0008] All subject matter of the Related Applications and of any
and all parent, grandparent, great-grandparent, etc. applications
of the Related Applications is incorporated herein by reference to
the extent such subject matter is not inconsistent herewith.
BACKGROUND
[0009] Small scale generators for generating energy at levels
suitable for powering devices which are in vivo or ex vivo to a
human or animal are described. Such generators may be implanted in
luminal structures so as to extract power from intraluminal
pressure changes.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
[0010] FIG. 1 shows a high-level block diagram of an intraluminal
power generation system.
[0011] FIG. 2 shows a high-level block diagram of an intraluminal
power generation system.
[0012] FIG. 3 is a high-level logic flowchart of a process.
[0013] FIG. 4 is a high-level logic flowchart of a process.
[0014] FIG. 5 is a high-level logic flowchart of a process.
[0015] FIG. 6 is a high-level logic flowchart of a process.
[0016] FIG. 7 is a high-level logic flowchart of a process.
[0017] FIG. 8 is a high-level logic flowchart of a process.
[0018] FIG. 9 is a high-level logic flowchart of a process.
[0019] FIG. 10 is a high-level logic flowchart of a process.
[0020] FIG. 11 is a high-level logic flowchart of a process.
[0021] FIG. 12 is a high-level logic flowchart of a process.
[0022] FIG. 13 is a high-level logic flowchart of a process.
[0023] FIG. 14 is a high-level logic flowchart of a process.
[0024] FIG. 15 is a high-level logic flowchart of a process.
[0025] FIG. 16 is a high-level logic flowchart of a process.
[0026] FIG. 17 is a high-level logic flowchart of a process.
[0027] FIG. 18 is a high-level logic flowchart of a process.
[0028] FIG. 19 is a high-level logic flowchart of a process.
[0029] FIG. 20 is a high-level logic flowchart of a process.
[0030] FIG. 21 is a high-level logic flowchart of a process.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0031] In the following detailed description, reference is made to
the accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof. In the
drawings, similar symbols typically identify similar components,
unless context dictates otherwise. The illustrative embodiments
described in the detailed description, drawings, and claims are not
meant to be limiting. Other embodiments may be utilized, and other
changes may be made, without departing from the spirit or scope of
the subject matter presented here.
[0032] FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate example environments in which one
or more technologies may be implemented. An intraluminal power
generation device may comprise intraluminal generator 100
configured for disposal within an anatomical lumen 101 defined by a
lumen wall 102. The intraluminal generator 100 may be configured to
convert a varying intraluminal pressure into energy (e.g.
electrical energy, mechanical/elastic energy, chemical energy,
thermal energy).
[0033] The intraluminal generator 100 may include an integrated
pressure change receiving structure 103A configured to receive a
pressure change associated with a fluid pressure within the lumen
101. Alternately, the pressure change receiving structure 103 may
be an external pressure change receiving structure 103B operably
coupled to the intraluminal generator 100 via a coupling 104 to
transfer a received pressure from the pressure change receiving
structure 103B to the intraluminal generator 100 in a form which
the intraluminal generator 100 may convert to energy.
[0034] The intraluminal power generation device may comprise an
energy storage apparatus 105 for storage of energy generated by the
intraluminal generator 100. The energy storage apparatus 105 may be
operably coupled to the intraluminal generator 100 by a coupling
106.
[0035] The intraluminal power generation device may comprise a
power utilization device 107 that may use energy generated by the
intraluminal generator 100 and/or stored in the energy storage
apparatus 105 to carry out a desired function. The power
utilization device 107 may be operably coupled to the intraluminal
generator 100 and/or an energy storage apparatus 105 by a coupling
108.
[0036] FIG. 2 illustrates various configurations of one or more
components of an intraluminal power generation device. The
intraluminal generator 100 may be operably coupled to power
utilization device 107A disposed in a first lumen 101A (e.g. in a
distal relationship to the power utilization device 107A). An
intraluminal generator 100 disposed within in a first lumen 101A
may be operably coupled to power utilization device 107B disposed
in a second lumen 101B. An intraluminal generator 100 disposed
within in a first lumen 101A may be operably coupled to an ex vivo
power utilization device 107C disposed outside an epidermis
layer.
[0037] Referring to FIGS. 1-3 and 21, the intraluminal generator
100 may be agenerator configured for intraluminal disposal. For
example, as shown in FIG. 1, the intraluminal generator 100 may be
disposed (e.g. surgically implanted) within in a lumen 101. The
intraluminal generator 100 may be coupled to the wall of the lumen
101 to maintain the intraluminal generator 100 in place. The
intraluminal generator 100 may comprise biocompatible materials
(e.g. ultra high molecular weight polyethylene, polysulfone,
polypropylene, titanium, and the like) such that the intraluminal
generator 100 may be suitable for disposal within the lumen 101.
The exterior surface of the intraluminal generator 100 may be
configured such that the flow characteristics of a fluid moving
through the lumen 101 are substantially maintained (e.g. the flow
rate of the fluid, the flow dynamics of the fluid, and the like are
not substantially disrupted.) The intraluminal generator 100 may be
a stent-type structure.
[0038] A movement and/or deformation of the pressure change
receiving structure 103 may be translated either directly (e.g. the
intraluminal generator 100 comprises the pressure change receiving
structure 103A) or indirectly (e.g. the pressure change receiving
structure 103B is operably coupled to a generator) into energy
either through the motion of the pressure change receiving
structure 103 and/or the electrical properties of the materials
comprising the pressure change receiving structure 103.
[0039] Referring to FIGS. 1-3 and 21, a change in pressure within
the lumen 101 may be received by a pressure change receiving
structure 103. The pressure change receiving structure 103 may
receive a change in pressure through exposure of a surface of the
pressure change receiving structure 103 to the luminal environment
such that a change in the intraluminal pressure may exert a force
on the pressure change receiving structure 103 thereby resulting in
a movement and/or deformation of the pressure change receiving
structure 103.
[0040] Referring to FIGS. 1-3 and 21, a movement and/or deformation
of the pressure change receiving structure 103 may be translated
either directly (e.g. the intraluminal generator 100 comprises the
pressure change receiving structure 103A) or indirectly (e.g. the
pressure change receiving structure 103B is operably coupled to a
generator) into energy either through the motion of the pressure
change receiving structure 103 and/or the electrical properties of
the materials comprising the pressure change receiving structure
103 and/or the intraluminal generator 100.
[0041] Referring to FIGS. 1-3 and 21, energy generated by the
intraluminal generator 100 in response to the movement and/or
deformation of the pressure change receiving structure 103 may be
provided to one or more devices (e.g. a power utilization device
107) which may require one or more types of energy (e.g.
electromagnetic, kinetic) to perform a function.
[0042] Referring to FIGS. 1-4 and 21, energy generated by the
intraluminal generator 100 in response to the movement and/or
deformation of the pressure change receiving structure 103 may be
transmitted to a power utilization device 107 operably coupled to
the intraluminal generator 100 by an electrical coupling 106 (e.g.
one or more wires).
[0043] Referring to FIGS. 1-4 and 21, energy generated by the
intraluminal generator 100 in response to the movement and/or
deformation of the pressure change receiving structure 103 may be
transmitted to a power utilization device 107 operably coupled to
the intraluminal generator 100 by a coupling 106. One or more of
the intraluminal generator 100 and the power utilization device 107
may comprise one or more of an radiant transmitter (e.g. a
light-emitting diode, a radio transmitter, an acoustical
transmitter) and an radiant receiver (e.g. a photo detector, a
radio receiver, and the like) whereby energy may be transmitted via
radiant signals transceived between the intraluminal generator 100
and the power utilization device 107.
[0044] Referring to FIGS. 1-4 and 21, energy generated by the
intraluminal generator 100 in response to the movement and/or
deformation of the pressure change receiving structure 103 may be
transmitted to a power utilization device 107 operably coupled to
the intraluminal generator 100 by a electromagnetic radiation (EMR)
coupling 106. One or more of the intraluminal generator 100 and the
power utilization device 107 may comprise one or more of an EMR
transmitter (e.g. a radio transmitter) and an EMR receiver (e.g. a
radio receiver) whereby energy may be transmitted via EMR signals
transceived between the intraluminal generator 100 and the power
utilization device 107.
[0045] Referring to FIGS. 1-5 and 21, energy generated by the
intraluminal generator 100 in response to the movement and/or
deformation of the pressure change receiving structure 103 may be
transmitted to a power utilization device 107 operably coupled to
the intraluminal generator 100 by an optical coupling 106. One or
more of the intraluminal generator 100 and the power utilization
device 107 may comprise one or more of an optical transmitter (e.g.
a light-emitting diode, a laser diode and the like) and an optical
receiver (e.g. a photo diode, a photo detector and the like)
whereby energy may be transmitted via EMR signals in the
visible-light spectrum are transceived between the intraluminal
generator 100 and the power utilization device 107.
[0046] Referring to FIGS. 1-5 and 21, energy generated by the
intraluminal generator 100 in response to the movement and/or
deformation of the pressure change receiving structure 103 may be
transmitted to a power utilization device 107 operably coupled to
the intraluminal generator 100 by an optical fiber coupling 106.
One or more of the intraluminal generator 100 and the power
utilization device 107 may comprise one or more of an optical
transmitter (e.g. a light-emitting diode, a laser diode and the
like) and an optical receiver (e.g. a photo diode, a photo detector
and the like) whereby energy may be transmitted via optical signals
transceived between the intraluminal generator 100 and the power
utilization device 107 via the optical fiber coupling 106.
[0047] Referring to FIGS. 1-5 and 21, energy generated by the
intraluminal generator 100 in response to the movement and/or
deformation of the pressure change receiving structure 103 may be
transmitted to a power utilization device 107 operably coupled to
the intraluminal generator 100 by an optical coupling 106. One or
more of the intraluminal generator 100 and the power utilization
device 107 may comprise one or more of an optical transmitter (e.g.
a light-emitting diode, a laser diode and the like) and an optical
receiver (e.g. a photo diode, a photo detector and the like)
whereby energy may be transmitted via optical signals transceived
between the intraluminal generator 100 and the power utilization
device 107.
[0048] Referring to FIGS. 1-4, 6 and 21, energy generated by the
intraluminal generator 100 in response to the movement and/or
deformation of the pressure change receiving structure 103 may be
transmitted to a power utilization device 107 operably coupled to
the intraluminal generator 100 by an electromagnetic radiation
(EMR) coupling 106. One or more of the intraluminal generator 100
and the power utilization device 107 may comprise one or more of an
EMR transmitter and an EMR receiver whereby energy may be
transmitted via EMR signals in the radio-frequency spectrum
transceived between the intraluminal generator 100 and the power
utilization device 107.
[0049] Referring to FIGS. 1-4, 6 and 21, energy generated by the
intraluminal generator 100 in response to the movement and/or
deformation of the pressure change receiving structure 103 may be
transmitted to a power utilization device 107 operably coupled to
the intraluminal generator 100 by an electromagnetic radiation
(EMR) coupling 106. One or more of the intraluminal generator 100
and the power utilization device 107 may comprise one or more of an
EMR transmitter and an EMR receiver whereby energy may be
transmitted via EMR signals in the radio-frequency spectrum
transceived between the intraluminal generator 100 and the power
utilization device 107 at a frequency associated with the power
utilization device 107 so as to avoid interference with a second
power utilization device (not shown).
[0050] Referring to FIGS. 1-4, 6 and 21, energy generated by the
intraluminal generator 100 in response to the movement and/or
deformation of the pressure change receiving structure 103 may be
transmitted to a power utilization device 107 operably coupled to
the intraluminal generator 100 by an electromagnetic radiation
(EMR) coupling 106. One or more of the intraluminal generator 100
and the power utilization device 107 may comprise one or more of an
EMR transmitter and an EMR receiver whereby energy may be
transmitted via EMR signals in the radio-frequency spectrum
transceived between the intraluminal generator 100 and the power
utilization device 107 at a frequency associated with the power
utilization device 107 so as to avoid interference with a power
utilization device implanted in a user (not shown) distinct from
the subject power utilization device 107.
[0051] Referring to FIGS. 1-4, 7 and 21, energy generated by the
intraluminal generator 100 in response to the movement and/or
deformation of the pressure change receiving structure 103 may be
transmitted to a power utilization device 107 operably coupled to
the intraluminal generator 100 by an electromagnetic radiation
(EMR) coupling 106. One or more of the intraluminal generator 100
and the power utilization device 107 may comprise one or more of an
EMR transmitter and an EMR receiver whereby energy may be
transmitted via EMR signals in the infrared-frequency spectrum
transceived between the intraluminal generator 100 and the power
utilization device 107.
[0052] Referring to FIGS. 1-3, 8 and 21, energy generated by the
intraluminal generator 100 in response to the movement and/or
deformation of the pressure change receiving structure 103 may be
transmitted to a power utilization device 107 operably coupled to
the intraluminal generator 100 by an inductive coupling 106. The
intraluminal generator 100 may include circuitry (e.g. a solenoid)
configured to generate a magnetic field. The power utilization
device 107 may include circuitry configured to generate an
electrical current when disposed in a location proximate to the
magnetic field.
[0053] Referring to FIGS. 1-3, 8 and 21, energy generated by the
intraluminal generator 100 in response to the movement and/or
deformation of the pressure change receiving structure 103 may be
transmitted to a power utilization device 107 operably coupled to
the intraluminal generator 100 by a resonant inductive coupling
106. The intraluminal generator 100 and the power utilization
device 107 may include one or more waveguides configured to
transceive evanescent electromagnetic signals. The waveguides may
be configured such that a receiving waveguide is in resonance with
a transmitting waveguide so as to provide evanescent wave coupling
between the waveguides. Upon reception, the evanescent waves may be
rectified into DC power for use in the power utilization device
107.
[0054] Referring to FIGS. 1-3, 8 and 21, a first intraluminal
generator 100 and first power utilization device 107 operably
coupled by a first resonant inductive coupling 106 (as described
above) may be at least partially co-located with a second
intraluminal generator 100 and second power utilization device 107
operably coupled by a second resonant inductive coupling 106 within
one or more anatomical structures. In order to avoid interference
between the first resonant inductive coupling 106 and the second
inductive coupling 106, the waveguides associated with the first
resonant inductive coupling 106 and the waveguides associated with
the second inductive coupling 106 may be configured so as to be in
mutual resonance.
[0055] Referring to FIGS. 1-3, 9 and 21, energy generated by the
intraluminal generator 100 in response to the movement and/or
deformation of the pressure change receiving structure 103 may be
transmitted to a power utilization device 107 operably coupled to
the intraluminal generator 100 by an acoustical coupling 106. One
or more of the intraluminal generator 100 and the power utilization
device 107 may comprise one or more of an acoustical transmitter
(e.g. an acoustic transducer and the like) and an acoustical
receiver (e.g. a hydrophone) whereby energy may be conveyed via
acoustical signals transceived between the intraluminal generator
100 and the power utilization device 107.
[0056] Referring to FIGS. 1-3, 9 and 21, one or more of the
intraluminal generator 100 and the power utilization device 107 may
comprise one or more of an acoustical transmitter (e.g. an acoustic
transducer and the like) and an acoustical receiver (e.g. a
hydrophone) whereby energy may be conveyed via acoustical signals
transceived between the intraluminal generator 100 and the power
utilization device 107 as described above. The one or more
acoustical transmitters and acoustical receivers may be in
resonance (e.g. an acoustical transmitter generates acoustical
waves that are in phase with a movement of the acoustical
receiver).
[0057] Referring to FIGS. 1-3, 9 and 21, one or more of the
intraluminal generator 100 and the power utilization device 107 may
comprise one or more of an acoustical transmitter (e.g. an acoustic
transducer and the like) and an acoustical receiver (e.g. a
hydrophone) whereby energy may be conveyed via acoustical signals
transceived between the intraluminal generator 100 and the power
utilization device 107. The one or more acoustical transmitters and
acoustical receivers may be in resonance (e.g. an acoustical
transmitter generates acoustical waves that are in phase with a
movement of the acoustical receiver) where the Q factor of the
acoustical transmitter and acoustical receiver is at least 10,000.
A transmitter/receiver system may be such as described in "Tunable
high-Q surface-acoustic-wave resonator" by Dmitriev, et al.,
Technical Physics, Volume 52, Number 8, August 2007, pp.
1061-1067(7); U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 20060044078,
"Capacitive Vertical Silicon Bulk Acoustic Resonator" to Ayazi, et
al.; "Acoustic Wave Generation and Detection in Non-Piezoelectric
High-Q Resonators", Lucklum, et al., Ultrasonics Symposium, 2006,
October 2006, Pages: 1132-1135.
[0058] Referring to FIGS. 1-3, 10 and 21, energy generated by the
intraluminal generator 100 in response to the movement and/or
deformation of the pressure change receiving structure 103 may be
transmitted to an at least partially intraluminal (e.g. inside of
lumen 101A) power utilization device 107A via a coupling 106.
[0059] FIGS. 1-3, 10 and 21, energy generated by the intraluminal
generator 100 in response to the movement and/or deformation of the
pressure change receiving structure 103 may be transmitted to an at
least partially extraluminal (e.g. external to a lumen 101A
containing the intraluminal generator 100) power utilization device
107D via a coupling 108.
[0060] FIGS. 1-3, 10 and 21, energy generated by the intraluminal
generator 100 in response to the movement and/or deformation of the
pressure change receiving structure 103 may be transmitted to a
power utilization device 107B via a coupling 108. The power
utilization device 107B may be located within another lumen (e.g. a
lumen 101B which does not contain the intraluminal generator 100).
For example, an intraluminal generator 100 disposed within a
respiratory lumen 101A may provide energy to a power utilization
device 107B disposed within a vascular lumen 101B.
[0061] FIGS. 1-3, 11 and 21, energy generated by the intraluminal
generator 100 in response to the movement and/or deformation of the
pressure change receiving structure 103 may be transmitted to a
power utilization device 107A in a distal position with respect to
the intraluminal generator 100 via a coupling 108. An intraluminal
generator 100 disposed within an aorta may provide energy to a
power utilization device 107A disposed within a distal vein.
[0062] FIGS. 1-3, 11 and 21, energy generated by the intraluminal
generator 100 in response to the movement and/or deformation of the
pressure change receiving structure 103 may be transmitted to a
power utilization device 107C in an ex vivo position (e.g. outside
of a body defined by an epidermal layer 90) such as an ex vivo
blood glucose monitor.
[0063] FIGS. 1-3, 12 and 21, energy generated by the intraluminal
generator 100 in response to the movement and/or deformation of the
pressure change receiving structure 103 may be transmitted to a
power utilization device 107 including an insulin pump (e.g. U.S.
Pat. No. 5,062,841 "Implantable, self-regulating mechanochemical
insulin pump" to Siegel).
[0064] FIGS. 1-3, 12 and 21, energy generated by the intraluminal
generator 100 in response to the movement and/or deformation of the
pressure change receiving structure 103 may be transmitted to a
power utilization device 107 including an neural stimulation
electrode (e.g. U.S. Pat. No. 7,403,821, "Method and implantable
systems for neural sensing and nerve stimulation" to Haugland et
al.)
[0065] FIGS. 1-3, 12 and 21, energy generated by the intraluminal
generator 100 in response to the movement and/or deformation of the
pressure change receiving structure 103 may be transmitted to a
power utilization device 107 including a pharmaceutical dispenser
(e.g. U.S. Pat. No. 5,366,454, "Implantable medication dispensing
device" to Currie, et al.)
[0066] FIGS. 1-3, 13 and 21, energy generated by the intraluminal
generator 100 in response to the movement and/or deformation of the
pressure change receiving structure 103 may be transmitted to a
power utilization device 107 including a chemical sensor (e.g. U.S.
Pat. No. 7,223,237, "Implantable biosensor and methods for
monitoring cardiac health" to Shelchuk).
[0067] FIGS. 1-3, 13 and 21, energy generated by the intraluminal
generator 100 in response to the movement and/or deformation of the
pressure change receiving structure 103 may be transmitted to a
power utilization device 107 including a pH sensor (e.g. U.S. Pat.
No. 6,802,811, "Sensing, interrogating, storing, telemetering and
responding medical implants" to Slepian).
[0068] FIGS. 1-3, 13 and 21, energy generated by the intraluminal
generator 100 in response to the movement and/or deformation of the
pressure change receiving structure 103 may be transmitted to a
power utilization device 107 including an blood sugar monitor (e.g.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,538,616, "Blood sugar level sensing and monitoring
transducer" to Rogoff.)
[0069] FIGS. 1-3, 14 and 21, energy generated by the intraluminal
generator 100 in response to the movement and/or deformation of the
pressure change receiving structure 103 may be transmitted to a
power utilization device 107 including an electromagnetic sensor
(e.g. U.S. Pat. No. 7,425,200, "Implantable sensor with wireless
communication" to Brockway, et al.)
[0070] FIGS. 1-3, 14 and 21, energy generated by the intraluminal
generator 100 in response to the movement and/or deformation of the
pressure change receiving structure 103 may be transmitted to a
power utilization device 107 including an optical source (e.g. U.S.
Pat. No. 7,465,313, "Red light implant for treating degenerative
disc disease" to DiMauro, et al.)
[0071] FIGS. 1-3, 14 and 21, energy generated by the intraluminal
generator 100 in response to the movement and/or deformation of the
pressure change receiving structure 103 may be transmitted to a
power utilization device 107 including an optical sensor (e.g.
European Patent No. EP1764034, "Implantable self-calibrating
optical sensors" to Poore).
[0072] FIGS. 1-3, 15 and 21, energy generated by the intraluminal
generator 100 in response to the movement and/or deformation of the
pressure change receiving structure 103 may be transmitted to a
power utilization device 107 including an ultrasonic source (e.g.
U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2006/0287598, "System of
implantable ultrasonic emitters for preventing restenosis following
a stent procedure" to Lasater, et al.)
[0073] FIGS. 1-3, 15 and 21, energy generated by the intraluminal
generator 100 in response to the movement and/or deformation of the
pressure change receiving structure 103 may be transmitted to a
power utilization device 107 including an ultrasonic sensor (e.g.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,967,986, "Endoluminal implant with fluid flow
sensing capability" to Cimochowski, et al.)
[0074] FIGS. 1-3, 16 and 21, energy generated by the intraluminal
generator 100 in response to the movement and/or deformation of the
pressure change receiving structure 103 may be transmitted to a
power utilization device 107 including a processor (e.g. U.S. Pat.
No. 5,022,395, "Implantable cardiac device with dual clock control
of microprocessor" to Russie).
[0075] FIGS. 1-3, 16 and 21, energy generated by the intraluminal
generator 100 in response to the movement and/or deformation of the
pressure change receiving structure 103 may be transmitted to a
power utilization device 107 including a memory storage device
(e.g. U.S. Pat. No. 6,635,048, "Implantable medical pump with
multi-layer back-up memory" to Ullestad).
[0076] FIGS. 1-3, 16 and 21, energy generated by the intraluminal
generator 100 in response to the movement and/or deformation of the
pressure change receiving structure 103 may be transmitted to a
power utilization device 107 including a communication device (e.g.
U.S. Pat. No. 7,425,200, "Implantable sensor with wireless
communication" to Brockway, et al.)
[0077] FIGS. 1-3, 17 and 21, energy generated by the intraluminal
generator 100 in response to the movement and/or deformation of the
pressure change receiving structure 103 may be transmitted to a
power utilization device 107 including an pressure sensor (e.g.
U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2006/0247724, "Implantable
optical pressure sensor for sensing urinary sphincter pressure" to
Gerber, et al.)
[0078] FIGS. 1-3, 17 and 21, energy generated by the intraluminal
generator 100 in response to the movement and/or deformation of the
pressure change receiving structure 103 may be transmitted to a
power utilization device 107 including a flow sensor (e.g. U.S.
Pat. No. 5,522,394, "Implantable measuring probe for measuring the
flow velocity of blood in humans and animals" to Zurbrugg).
[0079] FIGS. 1-3, 17 and 21, energy generated by the intraluminal
generator 100 in response to the movement and/or deformation of the
pressure change receiving structure 103 may be transmitted to a
power utilization device 107 including a flow modulation device
(e.g. U.S. Pat. No. 7,367,968, "Implantable pump with adjustable
flow rate" to Rosenberg, et al.)
[0080] FIGS. 1-3, 18 and 21, energy generated by the intraluminal
generator 100 in response to the movement and/or deformation of the
pressure change receiving structure 103 may be stored in an energy
storage apparatus 105. The energy storage apparatus 105 may
include, but is not limited to, a capacitive energy storage
apparatus, a mechanical energy storage apparatus, a pressure energy
storage apparatus, a chemical energy storage apparatus, and the
like.
[0081] FIGS. 1-3, 18 and 21, energy generated by the intraluminal
generator 100 in response to the movement and/or deformation of the
pressure change receiving structure 103 may be stored in an energy
storage apparatus 105. The energy that has been stored in the
energy storage apparatus 105 may then be transmitted to a power
utilization device 107.
[0082] FIGS. 1-3, 19 and 21, energy generated by the intraluminal
generator 100 in response to the movement and/or deformation of the
pressure change receiving structure 103 may be further configured
(e.g. rectifying electrical energy, inverting electrical energy,
converting energy from a first form (e.g. mechanical energy) to a
second form (e.g. electrical energy), and the like) by a power
converter 109 for use by a power utilization device 107 (e.g. a
sensor, a pump, an electrode, a memory, a communications device, a
energy storage apparatus, and the like).
[0083] FIGS. 1-3, 19 and 21, energy generated by the intraluminal
generator 100 in response to the movement and/or deformation of the
pressure change receiving structure 103 may be further configured
by an electrical power converter 109 (e.g. "Implantable RF Power
Converter for Small Animal In Vivo Biological Monitoring" by
Chaimanonart, et al.; Proceedings of the 2005 IEEE Engineering in
Medicine and Biology 27th Annual Conference; September 1-4,
2005).
[0084] FIGS. 1-3, 19 and 21, energy generated by the intraluminal
generator 100 in response to the movement and/or deformation of the
pressure change receiving structure 103 may be further configured
by a switched-mode power converter 109 (e.g. U.S. Pat. No.
6,426,628; "Power management system for an implantable device" to
Palm et al.)
[0085] FIGS. 1-3, 19 and 21, energy generated by the intraluminal
generator 100 in response to the movement and/or deformation of the
pressure change receiving structure 103 may be further configured
by an AC-to-DC power converter 109 (e.g. U.S. Pat. No. 7,167,756;
"Battery recharge management for an implantable medical device" to
Torgerson, et al).
[0086] FIGS. 1-3, 20 and 21, energy generated by the intraluminal
generator 100 in response to the movement and/or deformation of the
pressure change receiving structure 103 may be further configured
by a DC-to-AC power converter 109 (e.g. U.S. Pat. No. 6,937,894;
"Method of recharging battery for an implantable medical device" to
Isaac, et al).
[0087] FIGS. 1-3, 20 and 21, energy generated by the intraluminal
generator 100 in response to the movement and/or deformation of the
pressure change receiving structure 103 may be further configured
by a DC-to-DC power converter 109 (e.g. U.S. Pat. No. 7,489,966;
"Independent therapy programs in an implantable medical device" to
Leinders, et al).
[0088] FIGS. 1-3, 20 and 21, energy generated by the intraluminal
generator 100 in response to the movement and/or deformation of the
pressure change receiving structure 103 may be further configured
by an AC-to-AC power converter 109 (e.g. U.S. Pat. No. 5,188,738;
"Alternating current supplied electrically conductive method and
system for treatment of blood and/or other body fluids and/or
synthetic fluids with electric forces" by Kaali, et al).
[0089] FIGS. 1-3, 20 and 21, energy generated by the intraluminal
generator 100 in response to the movement and/or deformation of the
pressure change receiving structure 103 may be further configured
by an frequency power converter 109 (e.g. U.S. Pat. No. 6,829,507;
"Apparatus for determining the actual status of a piezoelectric
sensor in a medical implant" by Lidman, et al).
[0090] The herein described subject matter may illustrate different
components contained within, or connected with, different other
components. It is to be understood that such depicted architectures
are merely exemplary, and that in fact many other architectures can
be implemented which achieve the same functionality. In a
conceptual sense, any arrangement of components to achieve the same
functionality is effectively "associated" such that the desired
functionality is achieved. Hence, any two components herein
combined to achieve a particular functionality can be seen as
"associated with" each other such that the desired functionality is
achieved, irrespective of architectures or intermedial components.
Likewise, any two components so associated can also be viewed as
being "operably connected," or "operably coupled," to each other to
achieve the desired functionality, and any two components capable
of being so associated can also be viewed as being "operably
couplable," to each other to achieve the desired functionality.
Specific examples of operably couplable include but are not limited
to physically mateable and/or physically interacting components
and/or wirelessly interactable and/or wirelessly interacting
components and/or logically interacting and/or logically
interactable components.
[0091] While particular aspects of the present subject matter
described herein have been shown and described, changes and
modifications may be made without departing from the subject matter
described herein and its broader aspects and, therefore, the
appended claims are to encompass within their scope all such
changes and modifications as are within the true spirit and scope
of the subject matter described herein. Furthermore, it is to be
understood that the invention is defined by the appended claims. In
general, terms used herein, and especially in the appended claims
(e.g., bodies of the appended claims) are generally intended as
"open" terms (e.g., the term "including" should be interpreted as
"including but not limited to," the term "having" should be
interpreted as "having at least," the term "includes" should be
interpreted as "includes but is not limited to," etc.). If a
specific number of an introduced claim recitation is intended, such
an intent will be explicitly recited in the claim, and in the
absence of such recitation no such intent is present. For example,
as an aid to understanding, the following appended claims may
contain usage of the introductory phrases "at least one" and "one
or more" to introduce claim recitations. However, the use of such
phrases should not be construed to imply that the introduction of a
claim recitation by the indefinite articles "a" or "an" limits any
particular claim containing such introduced claim recitation to
inventions containing only one such recitation, even when the same
claim includes the introductory phrases "one or more" or "at least
one" and indefinite articles such as "a" or "an" (e.g., "a" and/or
"an" should typically be interpreted to mean "at least one" or "one
or more"); the same holds true for the use of definite articles
used to introduce claim recitations. In addition, even if a
specific number of an introduced claim recitation is explicitly
recited, such recitation should typically be interpreted to mean at
least the recited number (e.g., the bare recitation of "two
recitations," without other modifiers, typically means at least two
recitations, or two or more recitations). Furthermore, in those
instances where a convention analogous to "at least one of A, B,
and C, etc." is used, the convention (e.g., "a system having at
least one of A, B, and C" would include but not be limited to
systems that have A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A
and C together, B and C together, and/or A, B, and C together,
etc.). In those instances where a convention analogous to "at least
one of A, B, or C, etc." is used, in general such a construction is
intended (e.g., "a system having at least one of A, B, or C" would
include but not be limited to systems that have A alone, B alone, C
alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and/or
A, B, and C together, etc.). It will be further understood by those
within the art that virtually any disjunctive word and/or phrase
presenting two or more alternative terms, whether in the
description, claims, or drawings, should be understood to
contemplate the possibilities of including one of the terms, either
of the terms, or both terms. For example, the phrase "A or B" will
be understood to include the possibilities of "A" or "B" or "A and
B."
* * * * *
References