Homogenization methods in simulations of transcutaneous energy transmitters

Transcutaneous Energy Transmitters (TET) are usually devices composed of two pancake coils to transfer wireless energy through an inductive link from outside to inside the body of a patient. The simulation of the misalignment between the coils must be performed in 3-dimensions, e.g. with Finite Elements (FE). This paper introduces a homogenization method to minimize the expensive 3D FE computation in the frequency domain. Moreover, the meshing process of the non-homogeneous TET geometry is lightened. The results of this technique are compared with those obtained by considering regular stranded TET coils, showing improvements, mainly at kilohertz frequencies, the typical TET operating frequency range.status: publishe