Design of a millimetric-sized multi-segmented micromotor for intrabody medical devices

Details

Supervisors

Dehez, Bruno

Faculty

Ecole polytechnique de Louvain

Degree label

Master [120] : ingénieur civil électromécanicien, à finalité spécialisée: mécatronique

Abstract

This thesis explores the design and optimization of a multi-segmented micro-motor system for heart pump applications, aiming to address the persistent challenge of hemolysis in current technologies. By leveraging the compact size of the Mirmex prototype, this research investigates the feasibility of aligning multiple micro-motors in series to enhance torque and reduce rotation speed, thereby minimizing blood cell damage. The study focuses on the mechanical design of transmission systems, power supply configurations, and control strategies, using advanced simulations to evaluate performance. Key findings include the identification of the bubble transmission as the optimal solution due to its superior torsion stiffness and the development of effective control methods tailored to the system’s unique requirements. The serial motor system continues to operate efficiently; although losses are significantly higher compared to independent motors, the benefits of the space obtained within the aorta justify its use. However, the approximation model for the serial motor reveals some inaccuracies, particularly in positional offsets caused by the complexity of the torque approximation, which is more intricate than initially assumed. The results demonstrate the potential of this innovative approach to significantly improve heart pump technologies, with recommendations for further research to refine the design and ensure clinical viability.