Therapeutic pulse generator with crystalline capacitor

Abstract

A therapeutic electrical pulse delivery system and a therapeutic pulse generator are disclosed. The therapeutic electrical pulse delivery system may include a power source, a pulse generator, and a controller. The pulse generator is operably coupled to the power source. The pulse generator may include one or more capacitors. Each of the one or more capacitors may include a first electrode, a second electrode, and a dielectric disposed between the first electrode and the second electrode. The dielectric may include a crystalline dielectric comprising carbon. The controller may include one or more processors and be operably coupled to the power source or the pulse generator. The controller may be configured to charge the one or more capacitors of the pulse generator using the power source, and cause the pulse generator to deliver therapeutic electrical pulses using the charged one or more capacitors.

Description

[0001] Related Applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Serial No. 63 / 356,239, filed on June 28, 2022, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0003] In particular, the present disclosure relates to therapeutic electrical pulse delivery systems and devices. Background Art

[0004] Therapeutic electrical pulse delivery systems and devices typically use capacitors to store energy and deliver therapeutic pulses or electric shocks to patients. A capacitor can store energy in an electric field between two electrodes (e.g., a first electrode and a second electrode). A capacitor can release stored energy faster than a battery or other power source. In addition, the energy stored by a capacitor can have a higher voltage than the energy stored and provided by a typical battery or other power source, while occupying a smaller volume. Therefore, capacitors can be used to provide high voltage pulses or electric shocks in therapeutic electrical pulse delivery systems and devices.

[0005] While in a laboratory or hospital setting, the size, shape, weight, and durability of capacitors in a therapeutic electrical pulse delivery system may not be a significant issue. However, for therapeutic electrical pulse delivery systems and devices designed to be implanted in a patient or worn by a patient, concerns about size, shape, weight, and durability become significant. Capacitors that require bulky shapes and housings may increase the size and weight of implantable and wearable devices. In addition, capacitors that may be subject to mechanical and / or electromechanical deformation may reduce the efficiency of therapeutic electrical pulse delivery systems and devices over time. Therefore, capacitors and / or pulse generators that can deliver high voltage therapeutic pulses in a small, low weight form factor and have high durability may be desirable. Summary of the invention

[0006] As described herein, one or more capacitors (e.g., diamond or silicon carbide capacitors) comprising a crystalline dielectric may be used to achieve therapeutic electrical pulse delivery systems and devices having a small, low-weight form factor and increased durability. Capacitors comprising a crystalline dielectric may reduce the mass and volume required for the capacitor to achieve a given capacitance. Additionally, crystalline dielectric capacitors may be designed into many different form factors and may be less sensitive to electromechanical deformation and degradation. Thus, the therapeutic electrical pulse delivery systems and devices described herein may provide increased energy efficiency, durability, and shape variability.

[0007] The present invention particularly describes a therapeutic electrical pulse delivery system, which includes a power source; a pulse generator and a controller. The pulse generator may be conductively coupled to the power source. The pulse generator may include one or more capacitors. Each of the one or more capacitors may include a first electrode, a second electrode, and a crystalline dielectric disposed between the first electrode and the second electrode. The crystalline dielectric may include carbon. The controller may include one or more processors and may be operably coupled to the power source or the pulse generator. The controller may be configured to charge the one or more capacitors of the pulse generator using the power source and cause the pulse generator to deliver therapeutic electrical pulses using the charged one or more capacitors.

[0008] In general, in one aspect, the present disclosure describes a therapeutic pulse generator comprising an input, a charge reservoir, and an output. The input may be operable to be coupled to a power source. The charge reservoir may be operable to be coupled to the input to receive and store energy provided by the power source. The charge reservoir may include one or more capacitors. Each of the one or more capacitors may include a first electrode, a second electrode, and a crystalline dielectric disposed between the first electrode and the second electrode. The crystalline dielectric may include carbon. The output may be operable to be coupled to the charge reservoir to deliver therapeutic electrical pulses using the energy stored in the charge reservoir.

[0009] Advantages and additional features of the subject matter of the present disclosure are set forth in the following detailed description, and in part will become apparent to those skilled in the art from that description or may be learned by practicing the subject matter of the present disclosure as described herein, including the following detailed description, claims, and accompanying drawings.

[0010] It should be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description present embodiments of the subject matter of the present disclosure and are intended to provide an overview or framework for understanding the nature and characteristics of the subject matter of the present disclosure as claimed. The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the subject matter of the present disclosure, and the accompanying drawings are incorporated into and constitute a part of this specification. The accompanying drawings show various embodiments of the subject matter of the present disclosure and are used together with the specification to explain the principles and operations of the subject matter of the present disclosure. In addition, the drawings and descriptions are intended to be illustrative only and are not intended to limit the scope of the claims in any way. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] The following detailed description of specific embodiments of the present disclosure may be best understood when read in conjunction with the following drawings, in which:

[0012] Figure 1 is a conceptual diagram illustrating one embodiment of a therapeutic electrical pulse delivery system in conjunction with a patient;

[0013] Figure 2 is a conceptual diagram illustrating another embodiment of a therapeutic electrical pulse delivery system in conjunction with a patient;

[0014] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 and Figure 2 A schematic block diagram of the electronic components of a therapeutic electrical pulse delivery system;

[0015] Figure 4 yes Figures 1 to 3 Schematic block diagram of a pulse generator of a therapeutic electrical pulse delivery system.

[0016] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 A top view of an embodiment of a capacitor of a pulse generator;

[0017] Figure 6 yes Figure 4 A top view of another embodiment of a capacitor of a pulse generator;

[0018] Figure 7 yes Figure 4 A top view of another embodiment of a capacitor of a pulse generator;

[0019] Figure 8 yes Figure 4 A top view of another embodiment of a capacitor of a pulse generator;

[0020] Fig. 9 is a top view of one embodiment of a stacked arrangement of capacitors.

[0021] The schematic diagrams are not necessarily drawn to scale. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0022] Reference will now be made in more detail to various embodiments of the subject matter of the present disclosure, one or more of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. The same numbers used in the accompanying drawings refer to the same components and steps. However, it should be understood that the use of numbers to refer to components in a given figure is not intended to limit the components marked with the same numbers in another figure. In addition, the use of different numbers to refer to components in different figures is not intended to indicate that the components with different numbers cannot be the same or similar to the components with other numbers.

[0023] Generally speaking, therapeutic electrical pulse delivery systems include electrolytic capacitors. Electrolytic capacitors are generally considered to provide a reasonable compromise between the main considerations in the design of therapeutic electrical pulse delivery systems (e.g., discharge energy and duration, charging time, energy efficiency, volume, mass, durability, etc.). However, electrolytic capacitors may have limitations that provide opportunities for improvement.

[0024] One limitation may include the voltage limitations of electrolytic capacitors. Electrolytic capacitors may operate at several hundred volts, but are typically stacked in series to achieve the voltage and energy requirements of the therapeutic electrical pulse delivery system. Therefore, the high voltage requirements of the therapeutic electrical pulse delivery system may result in a larger device to accommodate multiple capacitors connected in series. In contrast, capacitors including crystalline dielectrics (e.g., crystalline capacitors) may be compatible with higher voltages and may use fewer capacitors to achieve the same or higher voltages as electrolytic capacitors. Crystalline dielectrics may have high dielectric strengths that may allow energy to be stored in capacitors at higher voltages with a reduced dielectric volume compared to electrolytic capacitors. Therefore, a single crystalline capacitor may also be smaller than a single electrolytic capacitor and still operate at a higher voltage than an electrolytic capacitor. Therefore, a therapeutic electrical pulse delivery system and / or pulse generator including a crystalline capacitor may be smaller and may allow therapeutic pulses to be delivered at higher voltages with a smaller capacitance compared to a therapeutic electrical pulse delivery system and / or pulse generator including an electrolytic capacitor. In addition, the voltage of such a therapeutic electrical pulse delivery system may be adjusted as the thickness of the crystalline dielectric changes.

[0025] Another limitation of electrolytic capacitors may include electromechanical deformation and degradation. Electrolytic capacitors typically include an electrolyte and a housing that holds the electrolyte. The electrolyte used in electrolytic capacitors may expand and contract with use. Such expansion and contraction may cause the capacitor to deform, which may increase charging time. In contrast, crystalline capacitors do not require or include an electrolyte. Therefore, crystalline capacitors may not be susceptible to the same deformation and degradation as electrolytic capacitors.

[0026] As used herein, the term "crystalline dielectric" may refer to a dielectric material having a crystalline structure including carbon. Crystalline dielectrics may include, for example, diamond, silicon carbide, or other crystalline materials including carbon. Crystalline dielectrics may also include one or more dopants, such as, for example, boron, silicon, oxygen, chromium, lanthanum, phosphorus, niobium, indium, etc. As used herein, the term "crystalline capacitor" may refer to a capacitor including a crystalline dielectric. Crystalline dielectrics can reduce the amount of required dielectrics, and therefore can reduce the mass and volume required to store a given amount of energy. In addition, crystalline dielectrics may be less dense than dielectrics used in electrolytic capacitors (such as, for example, tantalum oxide). In addition, because crystalline dielectrics can be deposited in a planar structure, a crystalline capacitor comprising only a metal (e.g., an electrode) and a crystalline dielectric can be constructed. Therefore, the need for an electrolyte and any volume required to accommodate such an electrolyte can be eliminated. Therefore, electrolyte leakage may not occur in a crystalline capacitor.

[0027] Further, because the crystalline capacitor may include only metal and dielectric components, shape flexibility and variation within the therapeutic electrical pulse delivery system is increased. The crystalline capacitor may include stacked dielectric layers that may provide three-dimensional shape flexibility by changing the shape of the layers in the stack and / or the shape of the electrodes on which the crystalline dielectric is deposited. For example, a crystalline capacitor may define a strip around the edge of a therapeutic electrical pulse delivery system or device. Such a strip crystalline capacitor may enter a space that might otherwise be used less efficiently. Additionally, a strip crystalline capacitor may follow a curve or wrap around a corner of a device. A strip capacitor may also be wound or rolled into a spiral shape.

[0028] According to one aspect, a therapeutic electrical pulse delivery system is provided. The therapeutic electrical pulse delivery system may include a power source, a pulse generator, and a controller. The pulse generator may be operably coupled to the power source. The pulse generator may include one or more capacitors. Each of the one or more capacitors may include a first electrode, a second electrode, and a dielectric disposed between the first electrode and the second electrode. The dielectric may include a crystalline dielectric. The controller may include one or more processors and may be operably coupled to the power source or the pulse generator. The controller may be configured to charge the one or more capacitors of the pulse generator using the power source, and cause the pulse generator to deliver therapeutic electrical pulses using the charged one or more capacitors.

[0029] The pulse generator may include any suitable number of capacitors. In one or more embodiments, the one or more capacitors consist of a single capacitor. The use of crystalline capacitors may allow a single capacitor to have a maximum voltage and capacitance to deliver therapeutic electrical pulses at a desired voltage. The use of a single capacitor may allow the size and cost of the pulse generator and therapeutic electrical pulse delivery system to be reduced compared to devices and systems using multiple electrolytic capacitors.

[0030] Although the one or more capacitors of the pulse generator may consist of a single capacitor, an arrangement including multiple capacitors may allow for a variety of pulse generator arrangements and / or dynamic therapeutic electrical pulse delivery. The one or more capacitors may be arranged to be charged in parallel and deliver therapeutic electrical pulses in parallel. In other words, each of the one or more capacitors may be arranged so that a terminal of each capacitor is coupled to a first voltage node and another terminal of each capacitor is coupled to a second voltage node. The capacitors arranged to deliver therapeutic electrical pulses in parallel may provide redundancy that allows the pulse generator to continue delivering therapeutic electrical pulses as long as one capacitor has not failed and can deliver therapeutic electrical pulses.

[0031] In one or more embodiments, one or more capacitors may be arranged to charge in parallel and deliver therapeutic electrical pulses in series. The pulse generator may include an input terminal that is operatively coupled to a power source and configured to charge one or more capacitors in parallel. The input terminal may include one or more switches to allow power to be received from a power source to charge one or more capacitors. The input terminal may be controlled by a controller to charge one or more capacitors. For example, the controller may be configured to open and close one or more switches of the input terminal. The switch of the input terminal may include, for example, one or more relays, transistors, digital switches or other switching devices.

[0032] The pulse generator may also include an output terminal that is operatively coupled to one or more capacitors and configured to deliver therapeutic electrical pulses from the one or more capacitors. The output terminal may include one or more switches to allow the delivery of therapeutic electrical pulses using one or more capacitors. The output terminal may be controlled by a controller to deliver therapeutic electrical pulses. For example, the controller may be configured to open and close one or more switches of the output terminal. The switches of the output terminal may include, for example, one or more relays, transistors, digital switches, or other switching devices.

[0033] In one or more embodiments, the output can be static so that the therapeutic electrical pulses are delivered from the capacitors in the same arrangement each time. In other words, the output can be configured to deliver therapeutic electrical pulses from capacitors in series, parallel, or a combination of series and parallel. In one or more other embodiments, the output can be dynamic so that therapeutic electrical pulses can be delivered from different combinations and arrangements of one or more capacitors. In other words, the output can be configured to selectively deliver therapeutic electrical pulses from one or more capacitors in series, parallel, or a combination of series and parallel.

[0034] For example, the output end may include a plurality of switches that may be opened or closed in various arrangements to deliver therapeutic electrical pulses from one or more capacitors. In one or more embodiments, a series of gradually increasing therapeutic electrical pulses may be delivered by three capacitors. A series of gradually increasing therapeutic electrical pulses may include therapeutic electrical pulses delivered by three capacitors in parallel. A series of gradually increasing therapeutic electrical pulses may include another therapeutic electrical pulse delivered by two capacitors in parallel with each other of the three capacitors and a third capacitor of the three capacitors arranged in series with the two capacitors. A series of gradually increasing therapeutic electrical pulses may include another therapeutic electrical pulse delivered by three capacitors in series. Although three capacitors are used as an example, it should be understood that various arrangements of two capacitors or four or more capacitors may also be utilized.

[0035] One or more capacitors may take on a variety of shapes. For example, at least one of the one or more capacitors may include one or more windings defined by a first electrode, a second electrode, and a dielectric. Also, for example, the first electrode, the second electrode, and the dielectric of at least one of the one or more capacitors may define a curved shape. Additionally, one or more capacitors may conform to the shape of the therapeutic electrical pulse delivery system or a substrate of the therapeutic electrical pulse delivery system. In one embodiment, the therapeutic electrical pulse delivery system may include a substrate including a groove located in at least one surface of the substrate, and one or more capacitors may conform to the shape of the groove.

[0036] The one or more capacitors may have any suitable maximum voltage to provide the therapeutic electrical pulses. Each of the one or more capacitors may have a separate maximum voltage that may be the same or different than the separate maximum voltages of the other capacitors in the one or more capacitors. At least one of the one or more capacitors may have a maximum voltage of, for example, at least 100 volts, at least 300 volts, at least 1000 volts, at least 2000 volts, or any voltage therebetween. In one or more embodiments, at least one of the one or more capacitors may have a maximum voltage of at least 1000 volts.

[0037] The one or more capacitors may have any suitable maximum capacitance to provide therapeutic electrical pulses. Each of the one or more capacitors may have a separate maximum capacitance that may be the same or different from the separate maximum capacitance of the other capacitors in the one or more capacitors. At least one of the one or more capacitors may have a maximum capacitance of, for example, at least 15 farads, at least 40 farads, at least 300 farads, or any capacitance therebetween. In one or more embodiments, at least one of the one or more capacitors may have a maximum capacitance of at least 300 farads.

[0038] The pulse generator may be configured to deliver electrical pulses having any suitable voltage. The pulse generator may be configured to deliver electrical pulses having a voltage of, for example, at least 100 volts, at least 300 volts, at least 1000 volts, at least 2000 volts, or any voltage therebetween. In one or more embodiments, the pulse generator may be configured to deliver electrical pulses having a voltage of at least 1000 volts. The pulse generator may include a boost converter to increase or increase the voltage received from the power source. The boost converter may be configured to increase the voltage received from the power source to the treatment pulse voltage. The output voltage of the boost converter may be adjustable based on the desired treatment pulse voltage. For example, the controller may be configured to adjust the output voltage of the boost converter based on the desired treatment pulse voltage.

[0039] The therapeutic electrical pulse delivery system may include a housing. The pulse generator may be disposed in the housing. In one or more embodiments, the housing may include a wearable device, such as, for example, a vest, a cuff, a headgear, etc. In one or more embodiments, the housing may include a vest. The therapeutic electrical pulse delivery system may include any suitable medical device. In one or more embodiments, an implantable medical device includes the therapeutic electrical pulse delivery system.

[0040] According to one aspect, a therapeutic pulse generator is provided. The therapeutic pulse generator may include an input, one or more capacitors, and an output. The input may be capable of being operably coupled to a power source. The one or more capacitors may be coupled to the input to receive and store energy provided by the power source. Each of the one or more capacitors may include a first electrode, a second electrode, and a crystalline dielectric disposed between the first electrode and the second electrode. The crystalline dielectric may include carbon. For example, the crystalline dielectric may include SiC. The output may be operably coupled to the one or more capacitors to deliver therapeutic electrical pulses using the energy stored in the one or more capacitors.

[0041] The pulse generator may include any suitable number of capacitors. In one or more embodiments, the one or more capacitors consist of a single capacitor. The use of crystalline capacitors may allow a single capacitor to have a maximum voltage and capacitance to deliver therapeutic electrical pulses at a desired voltage. The use of a single capacitor may allow the size and cost of the pulse generator to be reduced compared to devices and systems using multiple electrolytic capacitors.

[0042] Although the one or more capacitors of the pulse generator may consist of a single capacitor, an arrangement including multiple capacitors may allow for a variety of pulse generator arrangements and / or dynamic therapeutic electrical pulse delivery. One or more capacitors may be arranged to be charged in parallel and deliver therapeutic electrical pulses in parallel. In other words, each of the one or more capacitors may be arranged so that a terminal of each capacitor is coupled to a first voltage node and another terminal of each capacitor is coupled to a second voltage node. In one or more embodiments, one or more capacitors may be arranged to be charged in parallel and deliver therapeutic electrical pulses in series.

[0043] The input may be configured to charge one or more capacitors in parallel. The input may include one or more switches to allow power to be received from a power source to charge one or more capacitors. The input may be controllable to charge one or more capacitors. For example, one or more switches may be opened or closed by a controller to control the charging of one or more capacitors. The switches at the input may include, for example, one or more relays, transistors, digital switches, or other switching devices.

[0044] The output may be configured to deliver therapeutic electrical pulses from one or more capacitors. The output may include one or more switches to allow the delivery of therapeutic electrical pulses using one or more capacitors. The output may be controllable by a controller to deliver therapeutic electrical pulses. For example, one or more switches of the output may be opened or closed by a controller to control the delivery of therapeutic electrical pulses. The switches of the output may include, for example, one or more relays, transistors, digital switches, or other switching devices.

[0045] In one or more embodiments, the output can be static so that the therapeutic electrical pulses are delivered from the capacitors in the same arrangement each time. In other words, the output can be configured to deliver therapeutic electrical pulses from capacitors in series, parallel, or a combination of series and parallel. In one or more other embodiments, the output can be dynamic so that therapeutic electrical pulses can be delivered from different combinations and arrangements of one or more capacitors. In other words, the output can be configured to selectively deliver therapeutic electrical pulses from one or more capacitors in series, parallel, or a combination of series and parallel.

[0046] For example, the output end may include a plurality of switches that may be opened or closed in various arrangements to deliver therapeutic electrical pulses from one or more capacitors. In one or more embodiments, a series of gradually increasing therapeutic electrical pulses may be delivered by three capacitors. A series of gradually increasing therapeutic electrical pulses may include therapeutic electrical pulses delivered by three capacitors in parallel. A series of gradually increasing therapeutic electrical pulses may include another therapeutic electrical pulse delivered by two capacitors in parallel with each other of the three capacitors and a third capacitor of the three capacitors arranged in series with the two capacitors. A series of gradually increasing therapeutic electrical pulses may include another therapeutic electrical pulse delivered by three capacitors in series. Although three capacitors are used as an example, it should be understood that various arrangements of two capacitors or four or more capacitors may also be utilized.

[0047] One or more capacitors may take on a variety of shapes. For example, at least one of the one or more capacitors may include one or more windings defined by a first electrode, a second electrode, and a dielectric. Also, for example, the first electrode, the second electrode, and the dielectric of at least one of the one or more capacitors may define a curved shape. Additionally, one or more capacitors may conform to the shape of the therapeutic electrical pulse delivery system or a substrate of the therapeutic electrical pulse delivery system. In one embodiment, the therapeutic electrical pulse delivery system may include a substrate including a groove located in at least one surface of the substrate, and one or more capacitors may conform to the shape of the groove.

[0048] The one or more capacitors may have any suitable maximum voltage to provide the therapeutic electrical pulses. Each of the one or more capacitors may have a separate maximum voltage that may be the same or different than the separate maximum voltages of the other capacitors in the one or more capacitors. At least one of the one or more capacitors may have a maximum voltage of, for example, at least 100 volts, at least 300 volts, at least 1000 volts, at least 2000 volts, or any voltage therebetween. In one or more embodiments, at least one of the one or more capacitors may have a maximum voltage of at least 1000 volts.

[0049] The one or more capacitors may have any suitable maximum capacitance to provide therapeutic electrical pulses. Each of the one or more capacitors may have a separate maximum capacitance that may be the same or different from the separate maximum capacitance of the other capacitors in the one or more capacitors. At least one of the one or more capacitors may have a maximum capacitance of, for example, at least 15 farads, at least 40 farads, at least 300 farads, or any capacitance therebetween. In one or more embodiments, at least one of the one or more capacitors may have a maximum capacitance of at least 300 farads.

[0050] The use of a crystalline dielectric 126 in one or more capacitors 116 may also allow the capacitor to have a greater energy density than a typical capacitor (e.g., an electrolytic capacitor) used in a pulse generator. One or more capacitors 116 may have a higher maximum voltage than an electrolytic capacitor having a volume less than or equal to that of an electrolytic capacitor. Thus, one or more capacitors 116 may have a greater energy density because the energy density of a capacitor is proportional to the square of the maximum voltage of the capacitor. At least one of the one or more capacitors may have an energy density of at least 10 joules per cubic centimeter, at least 30 joules per cubic centimeter, at least 50 joules per cubic centimeter, at least 70 joules per cubic centimeter, or at least 100 joules per cubic centimeter.

[0051] The pulse generator may be configured to deliver electrical pulses having any suitable voltage. The pulse generator may be configured to deliver electrical pulses having a voltage of, for example, at least 100 volts, at least 300 volts, at least 1000 volts, at least 2000 volts, or any voltage therebetween. In one or more embodiments, the pulse generator may be configured to deliver electrical pulses having a voltage of at least 1000 volts. The pulse generator may include a boost converter to increase or increase the voltage received from the power source. The boost converter may be configured to increase the voltage received from the power source to the treatment pulse voltage. The output voltage of the boost converter may be adjustable based on the desired treatment pulse voltage. For example, the controller may be configured to adjust the output voltage of the boost converter based on the desired treatment pulse voltage.

[0052] Figure 1 One embodiment of a therapeutic electrical pulse delivery system comprising a crystalline capacitor as described herein is depicted in FIG. Figure 1 A conceptual diagram illustrating a therapeutic electrical pulse delivery system 100 in conjunction with a patient 10 is shown. Figure 1 As depicted, therapeutic electrical pulse delivery system 100 includes a housing 102 defining an exterior of an implantable medical device. Therapeutic electrical pulse delivery system 100 may be or may be included in any suitable implantable medical device, such as, for example, an implantable pulse generator, an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator, an implantable myocardial contractility modulator, an implantable neural stimulator, an implantable mechanical assist device, etc.

[0053] The therapeutic electrical pulse delivery system 100 may also include one or more leads 104 to deliver the therapeutic electrical pulses to the desired treatment area of ​​the patient 10. The lead 104 may include one or more electrodes (not shown) to facilitate delivery of the therapeutic electrical pulses to the desired treatment area. In one or more embodiments, the therapeutic electrical pulse delivery system 100 may include one or more electrodes without any leads. For example, when the therapeutic electrical pulse delivery system 100 can be implanted at the desired treatment area, leads may not be required to deliver the therapeutic electrical pulses.

[0054] In addition to implantable medical devices, the therapeutic electrical pulse delivery system 100 may be a wearable or other non-implantable device, or may be contained in a wearable or other non-implantable device. An example of a therapeutic electrical pulse delivery system 100 contained in a vest 103 is shown in FIG. Figure 2 Other wearable devices may include cuffs, skin patches, etc. A wearable therapeutic electrical pulse delivery system using a capacitor including a crystalline dielectric may have reduced size and weight compared to therapeutic electrical pulse delivery systems using other types of capacitors, such as electrolytic capacitors.

[0055] A schematic block diagram of the electronic components of the therapeutic electrical pulse delivery system 100 is shown in Figure 3 The electronic components of the therapeutic electrical pulse delivery system 100 may be disposed in a housing 102 to be implanted in a patient 10, such as Figure 1 As shown, or provided in a wearable device such as Figure 2 The therapeutic electrical pulse delivery system 100 may include a power source 106, a pulse generator 108, and a controller 110.

[0056] The power source 106 is operably coupled to the pulse generator 108 to provide energy to charge the pulse generator 108. Generally speaking, the power source 106 can be a voltage source. The power source 106 can be configured to provide energy at a voltage greater than zero volts to about five volts. In some examples, the power source 106 is configured to provide energy at a voltage of about two volts to about four volts (e.g., about three volts). Therefore, the current provided to the pulse generator 108 by the power source 106 can vary based on the charging state of the pulse generator. The power source 106 may include any suitable energy storage and / or power delivery device. The power source 106 may include one or more, for example, batteries, electrochemical cells, fuel cells, supercapacitors, switches, controllers, battery management systems or other energy storage and / or power delivery devices.

[0057] The pulse generator 108 may be operably coupled to the power source 106. The pulse generator 108 may be configured to receive energy from the power source 106 within a nominal voltage range of the power source 106. A schematic block diagram of one embodiment of the pulse generator or therapy pulse generator 108 is shown in FIG. Figure 4 1. The pulse generator 108 may be operatively coupled to or operatively coupled to the power source 106 via an input 112. The input 112 may include a switch to allow control of receiving energy from the power source 106. Alternatively, the input 112 may be operatively coupled to an external switch. The external switch may generally be part of the pulse generator 108 or included in the power source 106. The switch, whether internal or external to the pulse generator, may include any suitable device or devices. The switch may include, for example, one or more transistors, an electromechanical switch, a flip-flop, etc.

[0058] The pulse generator 108 may include one or more capacitors 116. Each of the one or more capacitors 116 may include a first electrode 122, a second electrode 124, and a crystalline dielectric 126 disposed between the first electrode 122 and the second electrode 124, such as by Figures 5 to 8 1, 116-2, 116-3, 116-4 (collectively referred to as capacitors 116) are shown in FIG. 1. Crystalline dielectric 126 may include carbon. In other words, each of one or more capacitors 116 may be a crystalline capacitor.

[0059] The use of a crystalline dielectric may allow capacitor 116 to take on a variety of shapes and designs. Capacitor 116 may take on a variety of shapes and designs because the crystalline dielectric may be disposed in a layer on one or both of electrodes 122, 124. In some configurations, the crystalline dielectric is deposited in a layer on one or both of electrodes 122, 124. Some examples of shapes that capacitor 116 may take include: Figures 5 to 8The capacitors 116-1, 116-2, 116-3, 116-4 are depicted. In one example, Figure 5 As shown in the capacitor 116-1 of FIG. 1 , the electrodes 122, 124 may be substantially flat with the crystalline dielectric 126 disposed between the electrodes. Capacitors such as capacitor 116-1 may be formed by providing alternating layers of metal and crystalline material (e.g., diamond, silicon carbide, etc.) to form the electrodes 122, 124 and the crystalline dielectric. In another example, the electrodes 122, 124 may be curved with the crystalline dielectric 126 disposed between them, as shown by Figure 6 In yet another example, the electrodes 122, 124 may be bent at one or more angles, with the crystalline dielectric 126 disposed therebetween, as shown by Figure 7 In other words, capacitor 116 can conform to the shape of various housings or substrates. In yet another example, electrodes 122, 124 can be wound around an axis with crystalline dielectric 126 disposed between them, as shown by Figure 8 A capacitor such as capacitor 116 - 4 may be formed by placing a crystalline material on a metal foil or sheet and winding the metal foil to form one or more windings defined by a first electrode 122 , a second electrode 124 , and a crystalline dielectric 126 .

[0060] Additionally, capacitor 116 may include Fig. 9 The stack arrangement 117 may include a plurality of capacitors 116-1 (see Figure 5 ), wherein an additional crystalline dielectric 128 is disposed between each of the plurality of capacitors 116-1. Although shown with capacitor 116-1, a capacitor having any suitable shape (e.g., Figures 6 to 8 The capacitors 116 - 2 , 116 - 3 , 116 - 4 ) form a stacked arrangement 117 with an additional crystalline dielectric 128 disposed therebetween.

[0061] The pulse generator 108 may include an output 118 operatively coupled to one or more capacitors to deliver therapeutic electrical pulses using energy stored in the one or more capacitors. The output 118 may include a switch to allow control of the delivery of therapeutic electrical pulses from the one or more capacitors 116. The switch may include any suitable one or more devices to control the delivery of therapeutic electrical pulses. The switch may include, for example, one or more transistors, electromechanical switches, flip-flops, etc.

[0062] The pulse generator 108 may also include a boost converter 114. The boost converter 114 may be configured to increase the voltage of the energy received from the power source 106. In one or more embodiments, the output voltage of the power source 106 may be lower than the desired voltage for delivering the therapeutic electrical pulses. In such embodiments, the boost converter 114 may increase the voltage provided by the power source 106. In one or more embodiments, the boost converter 114 may be adjustable to allow the pulse generator 108 to deliver the therapeutic electrical pulses at various voltages. For example, the boost converter 114 may be configured to adjust the output voltage based on a command or signal received from the controller 110. The boost converter 114 may include any suitable one or more devices to boost or increase the voltage provided by the power source 106. The boost converter 114 may include, for example, one or more of a direct current (DC)-DC converter, a switch, a transistor, a transformer, an inductor, and the like.

[0063] The energy transfer from the power source 106 to the pulse generator 108 may be controlled by the controller 110. The controller 110 may be operably coupled to the power source 106 and / or the pulse generator 108. The controller 110 may be configured to charge one or more capacitors 116 of the pulse generator 108 using the power source 106 and cause the pulse generator 108 to deliver therapeutic electrical pulses using the charged one or more capacitors 116. To charge the one or more capacitors 116, the controller 110 may be configured to close a switch associated with the input 112 and / or the power source 106 to allow current to flow from the power source 106 to the pulse generator 108. To deliver therapeutic electrical pulses, the controller 110 may be configured to close a switch associated with the output 118 of the pulse generator 108. Additionally, the controller 110 may be configured to open the switch of the input 112 or the power source 106 before closing the switch of the output 118. When the switch of output 118 is closed, energy stored in capacitor 116 may flow through the output to one or more leads / electrodes 104 and ultimately to a therapy delivery site of patient 10 .

[0064] The controller 110 may include any suitable analog or digital circuitry to charge one or more capacitors 116 and deliver therapeutic electrical pulses. The controller may include, for example, one or more processors, logic gates, operational amplifiers, transistors, analog-to-digital converters, sensors, or other circuits or devices that control the power source 106 and / or the pulse generator 108. The controller 110 may include a data storage device for data storage and access to a processing program or routine that may be used to implement techniques, processes, and algorithms for charging one or more capacitors 116 and delivering therapeutic electrical pulses. For example, the processing program or routine may include programs or routines for pulse delivery timing, pulse delivery triggering, opening and closing switches, determining output voltage, adjusting output voltage, filtering background noise, computational mathematics, matrix mathematics, Fourier transforms, compression algorithms, calibration algorithms, inversion algorithms, signal processing algorithms, normalization algorithms, deconvolution algorithms, averaging algorithms, standardization algorithms, comparison algorithms, vector mathematics, or any other processing required to implement one or more embodiments as described herein.

[0065] The controller 110 may also include a communication interface for communicating with one or more external devices. The communication interface may include any suitable hardware or device for providing wired or wireless communication with one or more external devices. For example, the communication interface may include one or more of a receiver, a transmitter, a transceiver, an Ethernet port, a universal serial bus (USB) port, a cable, a controller, or other devices for facilitating wired or wireless communication. The communication interface may use any suitable one or more protocols to facilitate communication. For example, the communication interface may utilize Ethernet, Recommended Standard 232, a universal asynchronous receiver transmitter or a universal synchronous asynchronous receiver transmitter (UART / USART), USB, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, near field communication (NCF), etc. The communication interface may allow communication between the therapeutic electric pulse delivery system 100 and a computing device.

[0066] The invention is defined in the claims. However, a non-exhaustive list of non-limiting embodiments is provided below. Any one or more of the features of these embodiments may be combined with any one or more features of another embodiment, implementation or aspect described herein.

[0067] Embodiment Ex1: A therapeutic electrical pulse delivery system, comprising: a power source; a pulse generator, the pulse generator being operatively coupled to the power source, the pulse generator comprising one or more capacitors, each of the one or more capacitors comprising: a first electrode; a second electrode; and a crystalline dielectric, the crystalline dielectric being disposed between the first electrode and the second electrode, the crystalline dielectric comprising carbon; a controller, the controller comprising one or more processors and being operatively coupled to the power source or the pulse generator, the controller being configured to: charge the one or more capacitors of the pulse generator using the power source; and cause the pulse generator to deliver therapeutic electrical pulses using the charged one or more capacitors.

[0068] Embodiment Ex2: A therapeutic electrical pulse delivery system according to Embodiment Ex1, wherein the pulse generator further comprises: an input end, which is operatively coupled to the power source and is configured to charge the one or more capacitors in parallel; and an output end, which is operatively coupled to the one or more capacitors and is configured to selectively deliver the therapeutic electrical pulses from the one or more capacitors in series, parallel, or a combination of series and parallel.

[0069] Embodiment Ex3: A therapeutic electrical pulse delivery system according to Embodiment Ex1, wherein the one or more capacitors consist of a single capacitor.

[0070] Embodiment Ex4: The therapeutic electrical pulse delivery system according to any one of Embodiments 1 or 2, wherein the one or more capacitors include a plurality of capacitors in a stacked arrangement.

[0071] Embodiment Ex5: The therapeutic electrical pulse delivery system according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the first electrode, the second electrode, and the crystalline dielectric of at least one of the one or more capacitors define a curved shape.

[0072] Embodiment Ex6: According to any one of the preceding embodiments, the therapeutic electrical pulse delivery system further comprises a substrate comprising a groove located in at least one surface of the substrate, wherein the one or more capacitors conform to the shape of the groove.

[0073] Embodiment Ex7: The therapeutic electrical pulse delivery system according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein at least one of the one or more capacitors has a maximum voltage of at least 1000 volts.

[0074] Embodiment Ex8: The therapeutic electrical pulse delivery system according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the pulse generator is configured to deliver the electrical pulses having a voltage of at least 1000 volts.

[0075] Embodiment Ex9: A therapeutic electrical pulse delivery system according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the crystalline dielectric comprises diamond.

[0076] Embodiment Ex10: The therapeutic electrical pulse delivery system according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein at least one of the one or more capacitors has an energy density of at least 10 joules per cubic centimeter.

[0077] Embodiment Ex11: According to any one of the preceding embodiments, the therapeutic electrical pulse delivery system further comprises a housing, wherein the pulse generator is disposed in the housing.

[0078] Embodiment Ex12: A therapeutic electrical pulse delivery system according to Embodiment Ex11, wherein the housing comprises a vest.

[0079] Embodiment Ex13: An implantable medical device comprising the therapeutic electrical pulse delivery system according to any one of Embodiments Ex1 to Ex11.

[0080] Embodiment Ex14: A therapeutic pulse generator, comprising: an input end, which is capable of being operably coupled to a power source; one or more capacitors, which are coupled to the input end to receive and store energy provided by the power source, each of the one or more capacitors comprising: a first electrode; a second electrode; and a crystalline dielectric, which is arranged between the first electrode and the second electrode, and the crystalline dielectric comprises carbon; and an output end, which is operably coupled to the one or more capacitors to deliver therapeutic electrical pulses using the energy stored in the one or more capacitors.

[0081] Embodiment Ex15: A therapeutic pulse generator according to Embodiment Ex14, wherein the input end is configured to charge the one or more capacitors in parallel, and the output end is configured to selectively deliver the therapeutic electric pulses from the one or more capacitors in series, parallel, or a combination of series and parallel.

[0082] Embodiment Ex16: A therapeutic pulse generator according to embodiment Ex14, wherein the one or more capacitors consist of a single capacitor.

[0083] Embodiment Ex17: A therapeutic pulse generator according to any one of Embodiments Ex14 or Ex15, wherein the one or more capacitors include a plurality of capacitors in a stacked arrangement.

[0084] Embodiment Ex18: A therapeutic pulse generator according to any one of Embodiments Ex14 to Ex17, wherein the first electrode, the second electrode, and the crystalline dielectric of at least one of the one or more capacitors define a curved shape.

[0085] Embodiment Ex19: According to any one of embodiments Ex14 to Ex18, the therapeutic pulse generator further comprises a substrate, the substrate comprising a groove located in at least one surface of the substrate, wherein the one or more capacitors conform to the shape of the groove.

[0086] Embodiment Ex20: A therapeutic pulse generator according to any one of Embodiments Ex14 to Ex19, wherein at least one of the one or more capacitors has a maximum voltage of at least 1000 volts.

[0087] Embodiment Ex21: A therapeutic pulse generator according to any one of Embodiments Ex14 to Ex20, wherein the pulse generator is configured to deliver electrical pulses having a voltage of at least 1000 volts.

[0088] Embodiment Ex22: A therapeutic pulse generator according to any one of Embodiments Ex14 to Ex21, wherein the crystalline dielectric comprises diamond.

[0089] Embodiment Ex23: A therapeutic pulse generator according to any one of Embodiments Ex14 to Ex22, wherein at least one of the one or more capacitors has an energy density of at least 10 joules per cubic centimeter.

[0090] Embodiment Ex24: A therapeutic pulse generator according to any one of embodiments Ex14 to Ex23, the therapeutic pulse generator further comprising a boost converter operatively coupled to the input terminal and the one or more capacitors to boost the voltage received from the power source. Unless otherwise specified, all scientific and technical terms used herein have the meanings commonly used in the art. The definitions provided herein are intended to facilitate understanding of certain terms frequently used herein and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.

[0091] As used herein, the singular forms "a / an" and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. As used in this specification and the appended claims, the term "or" is generally used in its sense, including "and / or", unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. The term "and / or" refers to one or all of the listed elements or a combination of any two or more of the listed elements.

[0092] The words "preferred" and "preferably" refer to embodiments of the present disclosure that may provide certain benefits in certain circumstances. However, other embodiments may also be preferred under the same or other circumstances. In addition, the recitation of one or more preferred embodiments does not mean that other embodiments are not useful, and is not intended to exclude other embodiments from the scope of the present invention.

[0093] Unless otherwise expressly stated, it is not intended that any method described herein be construed as requiring that its steps be performed in a particular order. Therefore, in the event that a method claim does not actually recite the order in which its steps are to be followed or the steps are not otherwise specifically stated in the claims or specification to be limited to a particular order, no particular order is intended to be inferred. Any recited single or multiple features or aspects in any claim may be combined or substituted with any other recited features or aspects in any other claim or claims.

[0094] It is obvious to those skilled in the art that various modifications and changes can be made to the technology of the present invention without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. Because those skilled in the art can make modifications, combinations, sub-combinations and changes to the disclosed embodiments that incorporate the spirit and essence of the technology of the present invention, the technology of the present invention should be interpreted as including all things within the scope of the attached claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A therapeutic electrical pulse delivery system, comprising: Power source; a pulse generator operatively coupled to the power source, the pulse generator comprising one or more capacitors, each of the one or more capacitors comprising: a first electrode; a second electrode; and a crystalline dielectric disposed between the first electrode and the second electrode, the crystalline dielectric comprising carbon; and a controller comprising one or more processors and operatively coupled to the power source or the pulse generator, the controller being configured to: charging the one or more capacitors of the pulse generator using the power source; and The pulse generator is caused to deliver therapeutic electrical pulses using the charged one or more capacitors.

2. The therapeutic electrical pulse delivery system of claim 1, wherein the pulse generator further comprises: an input operatively coupled to the power source and configured to charge the one or more capacitors in parallel; and An output terminal is operatively coupled to the one or more capacitors and is configured to selectively deliver the therapeutic electrical pulses from the one or more capacitors in series, parallel, or a combination of series and parallel.

3. The therapeutic electrical pulse delivery system of claim 1, wherein the one or more capacitors consist of a single capacitor.

4. The therapeutic electrical pulse delivery system of claim 1, wherein the one or more capacitors comprise a plurality of capacitors in a stacked arrangement.

5. The therapeutic electrical pulse delivery system of claim 1, wherein the first electrode, the second electrode, and the crystalline dielectric of at least one of the one or more capacitors define a curved shape.

6. The therapeutic electrical pulse delivery system of claim 1, further comprising a substrate comprising a groove in at least one surface of the substrate, wherein the one or more capacitors conform to the shape of the groove.

7. The therapeutic electrical pulse delivery system of claim 1, wherein at least one of the one or more capacitors has a maximum voltage of at least 1000 volts.

8. The therapeutic electrical pulse delivery system of claim 1, wherein the pulse generator is configured to deliver the electrical pulses having a voltage of at least 1000 volts.

9. The therapeutic electrical pulse delivery system of claim 1, wherein the crystalline dielectric comprises diamond.

10. The therapeutic electrical pulse delivery system of claim 1, wherein at least one of the one or more capacitors has an energy density of at least 10 joules per cubic centimeter.

11. The therapeutic electrical pulse delivery system of claim 1, further comprising a housing, wherein the pulse generator is disposed in the housing.

12. The therapeutic electrical pulse delivery system of claim 11, wherein the housing comprises a vest.

13. An implantable medical device comprising the therapeutic electrical pulse delivery system according to claim 1.

14. A therapeutic pulse generator, comprising: an input operatively coupled to a power source; one or more capacitors coupled to the input terminal to receive and store energy provided by the power source, each of the one or more capacitors comprising: a first electrode; a second electrode; and a crystalline dielectric disposed between the first electrode and the second electrode, the crystalline dielectric comprising carbon; and An output operatively coupled to the one or more capacitors for delivering therapeutic electrical pulses using energy stored in the one or more capacitors.

15. A therapeutic pulse generator according to claim 14, wherein the input end is configured to charge the one or more capacitors in parallel, and the output end is configured to selectively deliver the therapeutic electrical pulses from the one or more capacitors in series, parallel, or a combination of series and parallel.

16. The therapeutic pulse generator of claim 14, wherein the one or more capacitors consist of a single capacitor.

17. The therapeutic pulse generator of claim 14, wherein the one or more capacitors comprise a plurality of capacitors in a stacked arrangement.

18. The therapeutic pulse generator of claim 14, wherein the first electrode, the second electrode, and the crystalline dielectric of at least one of the one or more capacitors define a curved shape.

19. The therapy pulse generator of claim 14, further comprising a substrate comprising a groove in at least one surface of the substrate, wherein the one or more capacitors conform to a shape of the groove.

20. The therapeutic pulse generator of claim 14, wherein at least one of the one or more capacitors has a maximum voltage of at least 1000 volts.

21. The therapeutic pulse generator of claim 14, wherein the pulse generator is configured to deliver the electrical pulses having a voltage of at least 1000 volts.

22. The therapeutic pulse generator of claim 14, wherein the crystalline dielectric comprises diamond.

23. The therapeutic pulse generator of claim 14, wherein at least one of the one or more capacitors has an energy density of at least 10 joules per cubic centimeter.

24. The therapy pulse generator of claim 14, further comprising a boost converter operatively coupled to the input and the one or more capacitors to boost a voltage received from the power source.

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