Implantable device with microprocessor control
First Claim
1. A programmable implantable body function assistance device comprising:
- a microprocessor for executing stored instructions in a sequence directed by a program counter,ROM means for providing a fixed set of instructions to said microprocessor,RAM means for providing a programmable set of instructions, andprogrammable patch register means interconnecting said microprocessor, said program counter and said RAM means for causing instructions stored in said RAM means to be executed when said program counter corresponds to a programmed count in said patch register.
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Accused Products
Abstract
An improved body function assistance device is provided wherein a microprocessor controls the response of the device to various external physiological events and internal timer events. The microprocessor is adapted for use with the limited energy supply available from a battery by activating internal logic components of the processor only in response to selected events and to perform an operating routine corresponding to the "wakeup" event. At the end of the operating routine, a new set of wakeup events is selected and the internal logic components are deactivated. A further reduction in the average operating current is obtained by providing a plurality of counting rates to minimize the number of state changes during counting cycles. The microprocessor may be provided with a fixed operating routine or may be provided with the capability of actually introducing program changes in the implanted device.
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Citations
6 Claims
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1. A programmable implantable body function assistance device comprising:
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a microprocessor for executing stored instructions in a sequence directed by a program counter, ROM means for providing a fixed set of instructions to said microprocessor, RAM means for providing a programmable set of instructions, and programmable patch register means interconnecting said microprocessor, said program counter and said RAM means for causing instructions stored in said RAM means to be executed when said program counter corresponds to a programmed count in said patch register. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3)
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4. A method for reprogramming an implanted body function assistance device, including the steps of:
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transferring a selected set of microprocessor operating instructions to selected RAM locations for storage, transferring a selected first program count to a patch register for storage, executing instructions stored in ROM locations until said first program count is reached; and thereafter executing instructions stored in said RAM locations, including an instruction to continue executing instructions stored in ROM beginning at a second program count.
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5. A method for minimizing current consumption by a microprocessor controlling an implanted body function assistance device, comprising the steps of:
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storing a complete set of microprocessor operating instructions in ROM, and storing in RAM locations only instructions correcting said ROM instructions. - View Dependent Claims (6)
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Specification