Wireless Energy Transmission Systems for Implantable Artificial Hearts

Abstract

　Transcutaneous energy transmission (TET) systems can wirelessly supply energy to implantable ventricular assist devices. The energy is transmitted by a transcutaneous transformer through the mutual inductance of two coils i.e. one placed inside the body and the other outside the body. This paper focuses on mechanisms and key features of three types of transcutaneous transformers that were developed by the author. In addition, the impact of electromagnetism on human tissue surrounding air-core-type transcutaneous transformers, and electronic equipment in living organisms were investigated.