Powering Healthcare Exploring the Role, Advances, and Future of Medical Battery Technology
Importance of Battery Performance
For medical devices to function safely and effectively, their power sources need to meet stringent performance standards to ensure stability, longevity, and reliability. Some key qualities that medical batteries must possess include:
- Consistent output voltage - Medical devices require a steady voltage to operate correctly without fluctuations that could disrupt performance or cause errors.
- Long stable lifespan - Batteries must maintain sufficient power levels for the intended life of the device without prematurely shutting down. Replacing batteries in some implanted devices requires invasive surgery.
- Minimal self-discharge - Self-discharge rates should be low so batteries retain their charge even when devices are not in active use for long periods between treatments or hospital visits.
- Wide temperature tolerance - Implantable and wearable devices experience varying internal body temperatures, requiring batteries that can withstand temperature swings without performance issues.
- Safety - Medical Batteries must not leak, catch fire or explode even at end of life, as toxic chemical leakage could damage body tissues or organs.
Advancements in Medical Battery Technology
Research is ongoing to develop new battery chemistries and designs optimized specifically for medical applications. Some innovations aim to:
- Increase energy density - By packing more power into smaller volumes, devices can be smaller and more comfortable for patients. Thinner batteries also extend the capabilities of implantable devices.
- Lengthen lifespans - Developing longer-lasting batteries prevents frequent surgeries to replace depleted power sources in implants like pacemakers. It also reduces costs associated with battery replacements.
- Enable recharging - Rechargeable battery technologies preserve device functionality longer by eliminating frequent battery changes. Inductive charging through the skin is an active area of research.
- Improve stability - Novel electrolytes, materials, and manufacturing methods yield batteries with stable output over extreme temperature fluctuations and storage periods.
- Enhance safety - Safer battery chemistries prevent thermal runaway if damaged. Hermetic seals eliminate chemical leakage concerns even at end of life.
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