A flexible omnidirectional rotating magnetic array for MRI-safe transdermal wireless energy harvesting through flexible electronics

Sci Adv. 2023 Aug 18;9(33):eadi5451. doi: 10.1126/sciadv.adi5451. Epub 2023 Aug 16.

Abstract

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-safe implantable wireless energy harvester offers substantial benefits to patients suffering from brain disorders, hearing impairment, and arrhythmias. However, rigid magnets in cutting-edge systems with limited numbers of rotation axis impose high risk of device dislodgement and magnet failure. Here, a flexible omnidirectional rotating magnetic array (FORMA) and a flexible MRI-safe implantable wireless energy-harvesting system have been developed. Miniaturized flexible magnetic balls 1 millimeter in diameter achieved by molding three-dimensional printed templates can rotate freely in elastomer cavities and supply a magnetic force of 2.14 Newtons at a distance of 1 millimeter between an implantable receiver and a wearable transceiver. The system can work stably under an acceleration of 9g and obtain a power output of 15.62 decibel milliwatts at a transmission frequency of 8 megahertz. The development of the FORMA may lead to life-long flexible and batteryless implantable systems and offers the potential to promote techniques for monitoring and treating acute and chronic diseases.

MeSH terms

  • Electronics*
  • Humans
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Prostheses and Implants*