On-demand wireless infusion rate control in an implantable micropump for patient-tailored treatment of chronic conditions

Wireless infusion rate control and programmability for an implantable, low power, electrochemical micropump is presented. Flow rate control was achieved through adjustment of the wiper position of a current potentiometer in the wireless receiver (0.6-3.2 mA output current with a resolution of 0.2 mA per step). An off-the-shelf Bluetooth module and Basic Stamp microcontroller kit was used to initiate amplitude-shift keying (ASK) modulation of the inductive power signal. Accurate flow control of two model regimens was achieved on benchtop. Wireless transmission (power transfer and control) was not affected by simulated tissue material placed between the transmitter and receiver.