26.7 A 280µW 108dB DR Readout IC with Wireless Capacitive Powering Using a Dual-Output Regulating Rectifier for Implantable PPG Recording

The development of advanced neuroprostheses for restoration of function after spinal cord injury (SCI) is one of the most rapidly growing directions for neuroengineering research. Among the most exciting solutions is a networked neuroprosthesis (NNP) system, comprising a distributed network of implanted components to sense and stimulate throughout the body. These systems are being used with SCI individuals to provide grasp and reach functions, but do not presently feature any critical health monitoring. In fact, due to placement proximity of its components to muscles, an NNP platform is ideal for subcutaneous recording of the photoplethysmogram (PPG) signal from muscles, which is promising for implanted blood pressure monitoring. Also, the distributed nature of NNP system components throughout the body is ideal for wireless capacitive powering, a new modality with advantages over inductive links in terms of sensitivity to flexion, misalignment, and E&M interference.