The use of wearable health devices has more than tripled in recent years due to the ability of these products to collect health data to detect potential health events (e.g., heart attacks), manage chronic diseases, and track physical activity. Wearable technologies have been shown to decrease the number of visits to medical facilities, detect medical conditions, and improve workout efficiency.

The Need

Implantable medical devices like neurostimulators and pacemakers can treat diseases and monitor specific conditions. However, one of the significant challenges preventing their expansion into other diseases is the transfer of data via wireless antennas. Current technologies have limited connectivity due to the material loss of biological tissues, which limits data quality and integrity.

The Technology

This technology is a miniature on-body horn-shaped antenna that provides low-loss communication with implantable biomedical devices. It comprises 3D-printed polylactic acid that can be manufactured to match the electrical properties of tissues. Thus far, the inventors have prototyped the antenna and showed it significantly improved transmission through subcutaneous and deep tissues in laboratory experiments.

Commercial Applications

This invention can be used to improve the connectivity of wireless implantable medical devices.

Benefits/Advantages

This invention improves transmission by up to 14.5 dB compared to radio frequency antennas for implantable devices. The enhanced transmission can allow for implants within deep tissues and optimal connectivity.