A Review of Innovative Electromagnetic Technologies for a Totally Artificial Heart

A total artificial heart (TAH) represents a challenge in medical science to provide a survival perspective for patients with severe cardiac problems. Although cardiac transplantation represents the optimal therapeutic solution for end-stage heart failure, its application is limited by organ shortages. However, innovative technologies that can fit the operation and constraints of a physical heart are now under experimentation, making the target of a reliable and minimally invasive TAH much closer. The electromagnetic devices involved in system supply and actuation could potentially improve patient quality of life and expectancy. The purpose of this paper is to provide an overview of the operating principle, ratings, and key performance of the main electromagnetic components, with a particular focus on actuators that emulate the pumping effect of the heart ventricles. Linear oscillating actuators are very promising for their compactness and straightforward integration; therefore, an exhaustive overview considering both the single and the dual-mover configurations is worth being carried out. Taking a cue on the projects under development and after a detailed literature investigation, the pros and cons of the different solutions are discussed with the purpose of providing a critical analysis of the state-of-the-art.