초록 ▼

A system is provided for optically communicating with an implantable device. In one embodiment, the system includes an implantable device having a large memory and an external unit which downloads information from the memory for analysis and display. The implantable device includes a light-emitting

A system is provided for optically communicating with an implantable device. In one embodiment, the system includes an implantable device having a large memory and an external unit which downloads information from the memory for analysis and display. The implantable device includes a light-emitting diode (LED) and a modulator for driving the LED. Although various frequencies can be used, frequencies which experience relatively little attenuation through body tissue are presently preferred. The external device includes a photo-multiplier tube (PMT) and a demodulator for equalizing and demodulating the detection signal produced by the PMT in response to detected light. A high bandwidth channel (perhaps as much as 500 Mbits/sec) is created by these components. This channel advantageously allows for a substantially reduced download time.

대표청구항 ▼

[ What is a claimed is:] [1.]1. An implantable device capable of supporting a high-bandwidth optical communications link with an external device, wherein the implantable device comprises:a memory configured to store data for later retrieval;a photo-emitter configured to generate light having a trans

[ What is a claimed is:] [1.]1. An implantable device capable of supporting a high-bandwidth optical communications link with an external device, wherein the implantable device comprises:a memory configured to store data for later retrieval;a photo-emitter configured to generate light having a transmission frequency;a modulator coupled to receive data from the memory and configured to convert the data into an electrical signal for driving the photo-emitter;a receiver coil configured to generate an induced current in response to a communication signal from the external device;a current sensor configured to detect the induced current in the receiver coil and to convert the induced current into a detected signal;a demodulator coupled to the current sensor to receive the detected signal and configured to convert the detected signal into an operational signal for the implantable device; anda microprocessor coupled to the demodulator and the memory, wherein the microprocessor receives the operational signal from the demodulator, collects the data for transmission to the external device, and stores the collected data in the memory.