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Wireless Power Transfer to Millimeter-Sized Gastrointestinal Electronics Validated in a Swine Model
Abubakar Abid1,2,3, Jonathan M O'Brien3, Taylor Bensel2,4
1Department of Electrical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA.
Scientific Reports
|April 28, 2017
Summary
Wireless power transfer using mid-field antennas can now power gastrointestinal electronics. This technology enables long-term gastrointestinal device function without batteries, improving biocompatibility and clinical applications.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Medical Devices
- Wireless Power Transfer
Background:
- Gastrointestinal (GI) electronics require long-term power solutions.
- Batteries compromise biocompatibility and longevity of GI devices.
- Wireless powering presents a viable alternative for gastrointestinal electronics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the feasibility of mid-field wireless powering for gastrointestinal electronics.
- To design and test antennas for efficient power transfer within the GI tract.
- To assess power transmission efficiency and safety in vivo.
Main Methods:
- Simulations and ex vivo measurements to design 1.2 GHz mid-field antennas.
- In vivo characterization in anesthetized pigs with endoscopic antenna placement (esophagus, stomach, colon).
- Measurement of transmission efficiencies and received power levels.
Main Results:
- Achieved in vivo transmission efficiencies of -41.2 dB (esophagus), -36.1 dB (stomach), and -34.6 dB (colon).
- Delivered power levels of 37.5 μW (esophagus), 123 μW (stomach), and 173 μW (colon).
- Ensured radiation exposure levels remained below safety thresholds.
Conclusions:
- Mid-field wireless powering is feasible for gastrointestinal electronics.
- Sufficient power levels can be delivered to various GI locations wirelessly.
- This technology supports the development of advanced, long-term gastrointestinal medical devices.
