Development of compact thermal and electrical energy converters left heart assist systems.

The thermal converter for left heart assist systems consists of an engine which converts thermal energy to a flow of pressurized helium and a helium powered actuator/controller which powers and controls a PVAD pusher plate blood pump. The 0.43 L, 0.94 kg engine requires 20 watts of thermal input. In vitro and in vivo testing have demonstrated that the system synchronizes and provides left ventricle relief from 60 to 150 beats/min. The concepts potential for long life is based on: the inert environment for all internal components; the hermetic sealing capability resulting from a linear magnetic coupling blood pump drive; fluid control; and titanium external metal surfaces. Endurance testing has demonstrated that the converter shows promise of providing a high reliability 10 yr life. Many wear and fatigue sensitive components have demonstrated the 10 yr capability during accelerated life testing.