Power Loss Analysis of a TET System for High Power Implantable Devices

Efficiency of a transcutaneous energy transfer (TET) system is very important when delivering a substantial amount of power both in terms of heat generation and battery capacity for portable operation. Accurate analysis of the efficiency of different sub-systems within a TET system is important to identify the areas where significant improvements are most likely. A general approach to characterizing and quantifying power losses is presented. The methods are used to identify power loss components in a TET system capable of providing 10 W of power under loose coupling conditions. It has been found the greatest potential for efficiency improvements for this system is associated with power conditioning stage, primary resonant inductor and base/gate drive circuits.