In a recent report, the intersection of biology and electronics has taken a significant leap forward. Advanced medical technologies are now being developed that integrate silicon-based systems with human physiology. One example is a wireless silicon crystal monitor that can be used like an "OK stretcher," designed to be disposable after use. Another breakthrough involves a chip expected to become the first commercial artificial retina. Additionally, there's a component capable of deeply embedding in the brain to measure waveform data. These innovations were showcased at the International Solid State Circuits Conference (ISSCC) in San Francisco, reinforcing the belief that biology will soon be a major frontier for electronic applications.
Mark McDermott, a researcher at the University of Texas, emphasized the importance of interdisciplinary knowledge, advising engineers to study both electrical engineering and natural sciences. He noted that many engineers are increasingly interested in medical applications, especially as companies like Freescale and Intel continue to explore this field.
At the ISSCC, Arto Nurmikko from Brown University discussed brain implant designs that combine electronics, optics, and anatomy. He described the field as highly interdisciplinary, involving computer science, engineering, biology, and even precision mechanics similar to Swiss watchmaking.
Chris Van Hoof from IMEC highlighted the growing interaction between silicon technology and the human body during a seminar at the conference. He pointed out that these connections are becoming more sophisticated and integrated.
Looking ahead, patients could soon benefit from wearable sensors that allow remote health monitoring without frequent hospital visits. Hyung Kyu Lim of Samsung’s Advanced Technology Research Institute mentioned that healthcare equipment and service robots are key emerging products. However, these systems require high levels of machine intelligence, making them complex and costly.
Toumaz Technology introduced a custom chip at ISSCC that enables wireless monitoring through a disposable sticker. This chip is part of a new generation of smart wearable components aimed at bringing medical monitoring into home environments. Alison Burdett, Toumaz’s technical director, highlighted the growing burden of chronic diseases on global health systems.
A U.S. healthcare company is reportedly collaborating with Toumaz to launch a silicon-based medical patch by 2009. Companies like GE and Philips are also exploring similar projects in their labs.
To enhance efficiency, Toumaz developed custom hardware and protocols for 800-900 MHz wireless networks with data rates up to 50 kbps. The chip consumes only 2.5 mA during communication and 100 μW in its digital control section. Burdett explained that customized Media Access Controllers (MACs) are crucial for managing interference in short-range communications.
Despite being custom-designed, the patch is expected to cost as little as $5 when launched. The chip measures 16 mm² and is manufactured using Infineon Technologies’ 130nm process. Burdett added that while the silicon itself is inexpensive, most costs come from assembly and manufacturing due to the need for new processes.
The chip can connect to various sensors, including electrocardiograms, accelerometers, and glucose, pH, and pressure monitors. It supports switching between three sensors, even though only one can be used at a time.
Designed to be worn like a watch or badge, the device can track body temperature and collect daily data on mental, physical, and social well-being. Field tests with 200 users showed that even a single sensor can detect subtle changes in daily life, according to Hitachi engineers.
The monitoring module is compact, measuring 30 cm³ and running on a ZigBee network with a 32-bit H8S processor.
Silicon Eyes
When it comes to implantable technology, Albrecht Rothermel from the University of Ulm presented a chip that could be the first commercial artificial retina. The university is working with Retina Implant on a 1,600-pixel array. The chip was recently manufactured and based on a 1,450-pixel design from the Stuttgart Microelectronics Institute. It features a 170dB dynamic range and was tested in a multi-week hospital trial.
This artificial retina, made using 0.8μm technology, is just 20μm thick. It uses a wide voltage swing for retinal stimulation and includes a new power architecture and digital controller. Rothermel said the device may help some blind individuals perceive light. — Shanghai Medical Device Industry Association
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