[Actuator design and control exemplified by a urologic implant]

The state of the art concerning the use of actuators and sensors and the intelligent microprocessor-based control will be discussed on the basis of a novel urological implant, a fine tuned, sensor controlled artificial sphincter. A set of powerful actuators with a reaction time lower than 10 ms have been realised due to an appropriate design of components. This has been achieved at a supply voltage of 4.2 V and a power input lower than 0.1 mW. An optimal reliability as well as the comfort in operating the implant by the physician and the patient was gained by the use of different data technologies being adapted to the implanted system.