Sensor system
AssigneeMedtronic, Inc.
InventorJohn G. Keimel
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
An improved implantable sensor system is disclosed that includes an array of sensors. Each of the sensors is associated with a protective member that prevents the sensor from interacting with the surrounding environment. At a selected time, the protective member may be disabled, thereby allowing the sensor to begin sensing signals within a living body. In one embodiment, the protective member is formed of a conductive material that can oxidize, is biocompatible, bio-absorbable, and that may be dissolved in solution such as blood upon application of an electric potential. In another embodiment, the protective member is formed of a dissolvable member that dissolves within the body over a predetermined time period.
Claims30
A sensor system, comprising:
- a sensor to sense a biological indicator;
- a protective member located adjacent the sensor to shield the sensor from a surrounding environment for a selectable time period.
A system for sensing a biological agent, comprising:
- at least two sensors;
- and
- at least two protective members, each being associated with a respective one of the sensors to prevent the respective sensor from interacting with a surrounding environment.
A method of sensing signals in a living body, comprising:
- a.) providing a sensor;
- b.) providing a protective member to prevent the sensor from interacting with the living body;
- c.) selectively disabling the protective member;
- and
- d.) obtaining at least one signal from the sensor.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.