Triboelectric energy generators for self powered medical implants
Based on intense research efforts in the fields of technology development and materials science, a new generation of medical devices has flourished. But this medical technology still relies on conventional energy sources (bulky ba...
Based on intense research efforts in the fields of technology development and materials science, a new generation of medical devices has flourished. But this medical technology still relies on conventional energy sources (bulky batteries). These batteries typically have shorter lifetimes than the implant itself, meaning limitations on patients´ activities, infections and additional surgeries. In an ideal scenario, active implantable medical devices (AIMDs) would be powered using integrated and fully implantable energy suppliers, not needed to be recharged or replaced. An integrated implantable energy harvesting device to power AIMDs is the crucial missing component that would unlock this future.
TriboMed aims to implement triboelectric energy generators (TENGs) for powering AIMDs, taking vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) as proof-of-concept. I will show that TENGs can be produced at larger scale, while being miniaturized and tuned, supplying energy levels suitable for driving stimulation implants. By coupling to a supercapacitor, I aim to develop a fully integrated energy autonomous VNS implant on a conformable and biocompatible substrate. My approach is timely and innovative because it responds to the increasing needs of energy harvesting and comes when the maturity level reached by thin films technologies allows to start working on device integration.
My background in materials science and my current experience in device technology provides me with the tools necessary for the successful development of TriboMed. I have the privilege to be working at the forefront of the biomedical research, affording insight into the latest achievements and emerging requirements of VNS technology. TriboMed will unlock the use of triboelectricity for feeding other AIMDs and beyond, on the Internet of Things. Turning the medical implants into self-powered systems will broaden the acceptance of the neuromodulation therapies, with a life-changing impact on a very large patient population.ver más
Seleccionando "Aceptar todas las cookies" acepta el uso de cookies para ayudarnos a brindarle una mejor experiencia de usuario y para analizar el uso del sitio web. Al hacer clic en "Ajustar tus preferencias" puede elegir qué cookies permitir. Solo las cookies esenciales son necesarias para el correcto funcionamiento de nuestro sitio web y no se pueden rechazar.
Cookie settings
Nuestro sitio web almacena cuatro tipos de cookies. En cualquier momento puede elegir qué cookies acepta y cuáles rechaza. Puede obtener más información sobre qué son las cookies y qué tipos de cookies almacenamos en nuestra Política de cookies.
Son necesarias por razones técnicas. Sin ellas, este sitio web podría no funcionar correctamente.
Son necesarias para una funcionalidad específica en el sitio web. Sin ellos, algunas características pueden estar deshabilitadas.
Nos permite analizar el uso del sitio web y mejorar la experiencia del visitante.
Nos permite personalizar su experiencia y enviarle contenido y ofertas relevantes, en este sitio web y en otros sitios web.