Pulse generator and stimulating electrode matched with same

Abstract

The invention provides a pulse generator and a stimulating electrode matched with the pulse generator. The pulse generator comprises a main control board, a connection circuit board and a first connection module. The electrical stimulation pulse is transmitted to the stimulation electrode through the connection circuit and the first connection module. The first connecting module comprises a plurality of first contact pins, the stimulating electrode comprises a plurality of second contact pins, and the plurality of first contact pins correspond to the plurality of second contact pins respectively. The first end of each first contact pin is fixedly connected to the connection circuit board, each first contact pin is matched with the corresponding second contact pin in an inserted mode, and the second end of each first contact pin is provided with a jack used for receiving the corresponding second contact pin; or, the first end of each first pin is fixedly connected to the connection circuit board, and the second end of each first pin is used for being inserted into the jack of the corresponding second pin. That is to say, indirect connection between the first pin and the connection circuit board through a traditional switching component is not needed. And the connection reliability of the connection circuit board and the first pin is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to the field of medical devices, and in particular, to a pulse generator and a stimulation electrode adapted therefor. Background Art

[0002] Electrical stimulation of nerve pain relief is a common medical technology that achieves analgesic effects by delivering electrical stimulation signals to key parts of the patient's body. An electrical pulse stimulation system that applies electrical pulse stimulation generally includes a pulse generator for emitting electrical signals and a nerve stimulation electrode that delivers the electrical pulses from the pulse generator to key parts. The common connection method between the stimulation electrode and the pulse generator is to insert the electrode input end of the stimulation electrode into the electrode receiving component in the pulse generator.

[0003] The common electrode receiving component has a complex structure, which makes it difficult to assemble the pulse generator, and the reliability of the connection between the electrode receiving component and the main control board that performs the pulse transmission function in the pulse generator is not high. Therefore, reducing the difficulty of assembling the pulse generator and improving the reliability of the connection between the electrode receiving component and the main control board are technical problems that need to be solved urgently by those skilled in the art. Summary of the invention

[0004] The present disclosure aims to provide a neural stimulation system to simplify the structure of a pulse generator, reduce production costs, improve assembly efficiency, and improve the reliability of the pulse generator.

[0005] In a first aspect, the present disclosure provides a pulse generator, which is applicable to an electrical stimulation system, and the electrical stimulation system also includes a stimulation electrode. The pulse generator is used to generate an electrical stimulation pulse, and the electrical stimulation pulse is delivered to a target tissue via the stimulation electrode. The pulse generator includes a housing and a main control board, a connection circuit board and a first connection module located in the housing. The main control board is configured to generate an electrical stimulation pulse, and the electrical stimulation pulse is transmitted to the stimulation electrode via the connection circuit and the first connection module. The first connection module includes a plurality of first pins, and the stimulation electrode includes a plurality of second pins, and the plurality of first pins correspond to the plurality of second pins respectively. The first end of each first pin is fixedly connected to the connection circuit board, each first pin is plugged and matched with the corresponding second pin, and the second end of each first pin is provided with a socket for receiving the corresponding second pin; or, the first end of each first pin is fixedly connected to the connection circuit board, and the second end of each first pin is used to insert the socket of the corresponding second pin. That is to say, there is no need for indirect connection between the first pin and the connection circuit board via any form of switching components (such as switching wires), and at the same time, the plug connection between the first pin and the second pin realizes the electrical connection between the first pin and the stimulation electrode.

[0006] In a traditional neurostimulation system, after the electrode lead is connected to the neurostimulator, the electrical stimulation pulse generated by the control board of the neurostimulator needs to be transmitted to the electrode lead through a flexible circuit board, a switching wire and a switching contact. Specifically, the electrode receiving component of the neurostimulator needs to be welded and connected to the flexible circuit board connected to the control board that performs the pulse transmission function in the neurostimulator through a set of switching wires. The switching wire is connected to the flexible circuit board at one end and to the switching contact of the electrode receiving component for contacting the electrode lead at the other end. That is, the electrode receiving component and the flexible circuit board are indirectly connected through the switching wire. Such an indirect connection not only creates considerable difficulty for the assembly work, but also affects the stability of the connection between the switching wire and the switching contact, thereby affecting the stability of the electrode lead receiving the electrical stimulation pulse.

[0007] The first connection module provided by the present disclosure is equivalent to the electrode receiving component of the traditional neurostimulator. The first pin is fixedly connected to the connection circuit board at the first end and connected to the stimulation electrode at the second end, thereby realizing the combination of the traditional transfer contact and the transfer wire. This simplifies the structure of the pulse generator, improves the connection reliability between the connection circuit board and the first pin, and improves the production efficiency of the neurostimulation system.

[0008] In an exemplary embodiment, the connection circuit board includes a pulse output terminal for connecting to the first connection module, and the pulse output end face of the pulse output terminal is fixedly connected to the first pin. The first connection module also includes a first pin receiving portion, each first pin is partially embedded in the first pin receiving portion, the first pin receiving portion has a first surface, the first surface is arranged to face the pulse output end face, the first surface and the pulse output end face are plane, the first end of each first pin is exposed to the first surface, and the length of each first pin extending from the first surface is the same.

[0009] In order to realize multi-line parallel processing and production, the first connection module needs to be able to be produced separately. At the same time, in order to ensure that all first pins can contact the corresponding pulse output terminals on the pulse output end face at the same time, it is necessary to realize that the surface where the endpoints of the first ends of all first pins are located is flat with the pulse output end face. In order to increase the production speed, the first surface and the pulse output end face are both set to be flat, and it is only necessary to make the length of each first pin extending from the first surface the same. At this time, the surface where the endpoints of the first ends of all first pins are located is also flat, and the first end of each first pin can contact the pulse output end face at the same time, thereby improving production efficiency.

[0010] In an exemplary embodiment, the inner diameter of the plug hole of the first plug pin is equal to the outer diameter of the second plug pin; or the outer diameter of the first plug pin is equal to the inner diameter of the plug hole of the second plug pin, so as to provide a larger contact area and ensure the connection effect.

[0011] In an exemplary embodiment, the pulse output end includes a plurality of pulse output terminals, each of which is suitable for connecting to a corresponding first pin, and the pulse output terminal is recessed on the surface of the pulse output end to facilitate firm welding of the pulse output terminal with the first pin.

[0012] In an exemplary embodiment, the first pin receiving portion further has a second surface, the second end of each first pin is exposed to the second surface, the length of each first pin exposed to the second surface is the same, and the plug-in mating length of each second pin and the first pin is the same, so that each first pin and the corresponding second pin can be connected at the same time.

[0013] In an exemplary embodiment, the pulse output end includes a plurality of pulse output terminals, each pulse output terminal is adapted to be connected to the first end of the corresponding first pin, and the plurality of pulse output terminals are distributed in multiple layers along the circumferential direction on the pulse output end surface. Specifically, the plurality of pulse output terminals include multiple layers of annular pulse output terminal layers from the inside to the outside, that is, in two adjacent layers, the inner layer is surrounded by the outer layer.

[0014] Since the pulse output end face is opposite to the first surface, the first pin on the first surface and the pulse output terminal on the pulse output end face are welded and connected, that is, the welding point between the first pin and the pulse output terminal is located on the projection of the first surface on the pulse output end face. This makes full use of the space on the pulse output end face, reduces the density of the welding points between the first pin and the pulse output terminal, and reduces the possibility of unexpected electrical connection between multiple welding points, while taking into account the fixation of the first connecting module to the connecting circuit board and meeting the small size requirement of the pulse generator.

[0015] In an exemplary embodiment, the pulse generator further includes a supporting device, the supporting device is located in the housing and fixed to the housing, the supporting device has a first receiving slot, the first receiving slot is used to receive the first connecting module, the supporting device has a supporting rod extending along the first direction in the first receiving slot; the connecting circuit board includes a pulse output terminal for connecting to the first connecting module; the pulse output terminal includes a first through hole along the first direction, and the first connecting module also includes a second through hole along the first direction; the first through hole and the second through hole allow the supporting rod to be inserted. Wherein, the supporting rod is an irregular shape in the circumferential direction, the first through hole and the second through hole are formed to be the same as the circumferential shape of the supporting rod, and when the supporting rod is inserted into the first through hole and the second through hole, the pulse output terminal and the first connecting module will not undergo undesired circumferential rotation. By providing the supporting rod, the pulse generator can simultaneously support the pulse output terminal and the first connecting module in the first direction.

[0016] In an exemplary embodiment, the first pin receiving portion has a second through hole, and the second through hole is suitable for receiving the limiting rod of the stimulation electrode. When the limiting rod is inserted into the second through hole, each first pin is plugged and matched with the corresponding second pin. The inner surface of the second through hole has a limiting groove, and the limiting groove is suitable for receiving the limiting protrusion formed on the outer surface of the limiting rod. In other words, the plugging angle between the limiting rod and the second through hole is unique. The limiting rod extends beyond each second pin in the axial direction, so that after the limiting rod is accurately plugged into the second through hole, the first pin can be accurately plugged into the corresponding second pin.

[0017] In an exemplary embodiment, when the jack is located at the first pin, the depth of the jack is less than the length of the first pin, so as to ensure that the second pin does not interfere with the connection circuit board and to ensure the connection reliability between the first pin and the connection circuit board.

[0018] In a second aspect, the present disclosure further provides a stimulation electrode adapted for the pulse generator as described above, the stimulation electrode comprising an electrode body, at least one wire and a second connection module. Each wire extends along the length direction of the electrode body, and one end extends outside the electrode body, and the other end is connected to the stimulation electrode for delivering a pulse output contact of a stimulation current to a target site.

[0019] The second connection module is suitable for docking with the first connection module of the pulse generator. The second connection module includes a plurality of second pins, which correspond to the plurality of first pins in the pulse generator respectively. The length of each second pin is the same. The second pin is separated from the electrode body. The first end of each second pin is connected to one end of a wire extending from the electrode body, and the second end of each second pin is used to insert into the socket of the corresponding first pin, or the second end of each second pin is provided with a socket for receiving the corresponding first pin, wherein the height of the second end of each second pin is flush.

[0020] The traditional electrode lead has multiple pulse input contacts distributed circumferentially on the side surface of the input end, and the inner surface of each pulse input contact is connected to a wire extending completely inside the electrode body of the electrode lead. In order to prevent the wire from loosening inside the electrode body, the length of each wire needs to be precisely controlled. During the production process, each wire needs to be welded and connected to the corresponding pulse input contact immediately after the wiring is completed in the electrode body of the electrode lead. Before welding, the wire needs to be cut to a suitable length to complete the welding with the corresponding pulse input contact. Once one end of the wire is cut too short, it will affect the welding effect between the pulse input contact and the wire, and affect the flatness of the outer surface of the multiple pulse input contacts on the side surface of the electrode body of the electrode lead. Therefore, the traditional problem of wire length accuracy is a difficulty that must be considered when processing traditional electrode leads.

[0021] In this embodiment, since the length of each second pin is the same and the height of the second end of each second pin is flush, it means that after one end of the multiple wires extend from the electrode body, all the wires can be uniformly cut at one time, so that the length of one end of each wire extending from the electrode body is the same, and the second pin is separated from the electrode body. Naturally, there is no need to consider the flatness of the side surface of the stimulation electrode body after the wire is connected to the second pin (pulse input contact) and the wire length accuracy.

[0022] In an exemplary embodiment, a plurality of wires extend from the end of the electrode body, thereby further reducing the difficulty of processing the stimulation electrode.

[0023] In an exemplary embodiment, the second connection module further includes a second pin receiving portion, which is adapted to receive a plurality of second pins, the plurality of second pins extending from the second pin receiving portion have the same length, and the mating length of each second pin at one end of the plurality of second pins and the corresponding first pin is the same, so that the plurality of second pins can be mated with the corresponding first pins at the same time.

[0024] In an exemplary embodiment, the second connection module has a shielding component, which surrounds the second pin receiving portion and forms a second receiving groove together with the second pin receiving portion, and the depth of the second receiving groove is greater than or equal to the axial length of the first connection module. When the second connection module is docked with the first connection module, the shielding component completely covers the outer surface of the first connection module, thereby achieving shielding against external electromagnetic waves.

[0025] In an exemplary embodiment, when the second connection module is docked with the first connection module, the projection of the shielding component on a plane perpendicular to the first direction partially overlaps with the projection of the first receiving slot in the pulse generator on a plane perpendicular to the first direction, so as to avoid the influence of electromagnetic interference from the external space on the connection between the first connection module and the pulse output end of the connection circuit board.

[0026] In an exemplary embodiment, the stimulation electrode further includes a fixing assembly, the fixing assembly includes a fixing screw and a fixing screw receiving portion for receiving the fixing screw, the fixing screw receiving portion has a first through hole, the fixing screw receiving portion is sleeved on the outer surface of the electrode body through the first through hole, the fixing screw receiving portion can move along the axial direction of the electrode body, the fixing screw receiving portion also has a second through hole, the second through hole is connected to the first through hole, the shielding component can move along the axial direction of the electrode body, and surrounds the fixing screw receiving portion in the circumferential direction, and the shielding component has a through hole that allows the fixing screw to partially pass through, so as to realize the movement and fixation of the shielding component on the electrode body. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0027] In order to more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the following briefly introduces the drawings required for use in the embodiments. It should be understood that the following drawings only illustrate some embodiments of the present disclosure, not all.

[0028] It should be understood that the same or similar reference numerals are used in the drawings to represent the same or similar elements (members or components).

[0029] It should be understood that the drawings are merely schematic and that the sizes and proportions of elements (components or components) in the drawings are not necessarily accurate.

[0030] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the structure of an electrical stimulation system in an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0031] Figure 2A for Figure 1 A partial perspective structural schematic diagram of the electrical stimulation system is shown in FIG.

[0032] Figure 2B for Figure 2A Enlarged schematic diagram of part C.

[0033] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the partial structure of a traditional neurostimulator is shown.

[0034] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of a local state of a pulse generator in an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0035] Figure 5A for Figure 4 An exploded schematic diagram of the schematic diagram shown in .

[0036] Figure 5B A partial exploded schematic diagram of a pulse generator in an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0037] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the structure of a stimulation electrode in an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0038] Figure 7 A schematic diagram of the structure of a stimulation electrode in an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0039] Figure 8 A schematic diagram of the partial structure of a stimulation electrode and a pulse generator in an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0040] Fig. 9 A schematic diagram showing the state changes of the stimulation electrodes in one embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0041] The following will be combined with the drawings in the embodiments of the present disclosure to clearly and completely describe the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present disclosure. Obviously, the described embodiments are only part of the embodiments of the present disclosure, not all of the embodiments.

[0042] like Figure 1 As shown, in an exemplary embodiment, the present disclosure provides an electrical stimulation system suitable for implantation in a patient's body to apply electrical stimulation to a target area to achieve an analgesic effect. The electrical stimulation system includes a pulse generator 10 and a stimulation electrode 20. The input end of the stimulation electrode 20 is connected to the pulse generator 10. The pulse generator 10 is used to generate electrical stimulation pulses, which are delivered to the target tissue via the stimulation electrode 20, thereby achieving electrical stimulation of the target area.

[0043] In this embodiment, the electrical stimulation system is an implantable stimulation system. Further, the electrical stimulation system is an implantable neural stimulation system. In other embodiments, the electrical stimulation system may be a semi-implantable stimulation system.

[0044] In an exemplary embodiment, if Figure 2A-2B As shown, a pulse generator 10 is provided. The pulse generator 10 includes a housing 11 and a main control board 12, a connecting circuit board 14 and a first connecting module 16 located in the housing 11. The main control board 12 is configured to generate an electrical stimulation pulse, which is transmitted to the stimulation electrode 20 via the connecting circuit board 14 and the first connecting module 16. The first connecting module 16 includes a plurality of first pins 162, each of which is a long straight structure. The stimulation electrode 20 includes a plurality of second pins 262, each of which is a long straight structure, which is connected to a corresponding wire in the stimulation electrode 20, and the other end of each wire is connected to the stimulation electrode 20 for delivering a pulse output contact of the stimulation current to the target site. The plurality of first pins 162 correspond to the plurality of second pins 262, respectively. The first end 1621 of each first pin 162 is fixedly connected to the connecting circuit board 14, and the second end 1622 of each first pin 162 is provided with a socket 1623 for receiving the corresponding second pin 262; or, the first end of each first pin is fixedly connected to the connecting circuit board, and each first pin is plugged into and matched with the corresponding second pin. The second end of each first pin is used to insert into the socket of the corresponding second pin. In other words, there is no need for an indirect connection between the first pin 162 and the connecting circuit board 14 via any form of switching components (such as switching wires), and at the same time, the plug-in connection between the first pin 162 and the second pin 262 realizes the electrical connection between the first pin 162 and the stimulation electrode 20.

[0045] In contrast, traditional neurostimulation systems (such as Figure 3As shown in the figure, after the electrode lead 30 is connected to the neurostimulator 40, the electrical stimulation pulse generated by the control board 42 of the neurostimulator 40 needs to pass through the flexible circuit board 44, the transfer wire 46 and the electrode receiving component 48 in sequence before reaching the electrode lead 30. Specifically, the electrode receiving component 48 needs to be welded and connected to the flexible circuit board 44 connected to the control board 42 through a set of transfer wires 46. One end of the transfer wire 46 is connected to the flexible circuit board 44, and the other end is connected to the transfer contact 482 of the electrode receiving component 48 (for contacting the electrode lead 30), which results in an indirect connection between the electrode receiving component 48 and the flexible circuit board 44. This indirect connection method not only significantly increases the difficulty of assembly work, but also has a negative impact on the stability of the connection between the transfer wire 46 and the transfer contact 482, thereby reducing the stability of the electrode lead 30 receiving the electrical stimulation pulse.

[0046] Refer to Figure 2 and Figure 3 In the present disclosure, the first pin 162 is fixed to the connecting circuit board 14 through the first end 1621 and connected to the stimulation electrode 20 through the second end 1622, integrating the functions of the traditional transfer contact 482 and the transfer wire 46, thereby simplifying the structure of the pulse generator, enhancing the connection reliability between the connecting circuit board and the first pin, and ultimately effectively improving the production efficiency of the neural stimulation system.

[0047] For example, taking the jack on the first pin 162 as an example (the jack is in the first pin 162 of the long straight structure), the jack 1623 extends from the second end 1622 to the inside along the axial direction of the first pin 162, but does not penetrate the first pin 162. The length of each jack 1623 receiving the second pin 262 is the same, and when the jack is located at the second pin, its structure is also the same. The jack does not penetrate the first pin, which ensures that there is enough contact area between the first end of the first pin and the connecting circuit board, thereby ensuring the reliability of the connection between the first pin and the connecting circuit board.

[0048] In addition, the jack-plug docking method has unique advantages. Even if the stimulation electrode 20 is partially withdrawn from the first connection module 16, as long as the length of each jack receiving pin remains consistent, the stimulation current delivered by each pulse output contact in the stimulation electrode 20 can be continuously output, and the signal strength and type remain stable.

[0049] In an exemplary embodiment, if Figure 4As shown, the connection circuit board 14 includes a pulse output end 142 for connecting to the first connection module 16. The pulse output end 142 includes a substrate made of an insulating material and a plurality of pulse output terminals 1424 made of a conductive material. Each pulse output terminal 1424 is suitable for connecting to a corresponding first pin 162. Specifically, each pulse output terminal 1424 is suitable for connecting to the first end 1621 of the corresponding first pin 162. The pulse output end 142 has a pulse output end face 1422 facing the first connection module, and a plurality of pulse output terminals 1424 are distributed on the pulse output end face 1422. Each pulse output terminal 1424 is an extension of one end of a guide wire (not shown) for transmitting an electrical stimulation signal extending in the connection circuit board 14 on the pulse output end face 1422. The first pin 162 is fixedly connected to the pulse output end face 1422, specifically, each first pin 162 is connected to a corresponding pulse output terminal 1424. For example, it can be welded, clamped, plugged, etc.

[0050] like Figure 5A As shown, multiple pulse output terminals 1424 are electrically isolated from each other, and each pulse output terminal 1424 is recessed on the pulse output end surface 1422. The recessed depth of the pulse output terminal 1424 accommodates at least part of the first pin. Preferably, the first end 1621 of the first pin is a hemispherical surface, and the recessed shape of the pulse output terminal 1424 on the pulse output end surface 1422 is a hemispherical concave surface that matches the first end 1621 of the first pin. This facilitates the secure welding of the first pin 162 with the first pin.

[0051] The first connection module 16 also includes a first pin receiving portion 165, and each first pin 162 is partially embedded in the first pin receiving portion 165. The first connection module 16 has a first surface 1651, and the first surface 1651 is configured to face the pulse output end face 1422. The first end 1621 of each first pin is exposed to the first surface 1651, and the first surface 1651 and the pulse output end face 1422 are planar. The first surface 1651 and the pulse output end face 1422 are opposite to each other, and each first pin extends from the first surface 1651 by the same length (not shown). The connecting circuit board 14 includes a pulse output terminal 142 for connecting to the first connection module 16, and the pulse output terminal 142 includes a pulse output end face 1422, and the first pin is fixedly connected to the pulse output terminal 1424. For easy observation, Figure 5A The connecting circuit board 14 and the first connecting module 16 shown in the figure are shown at different angles, which does not affect the connection between the first surface 1651 and the pulse output end surface 1422.

[0052] From the production perspective, in order to achieve multi-line parallel processing and production, the first connection module 16 can be produced separately. At the same time, in order to ensure that all first pins 162 can contact the corresponding pulse output terminal 1424 on the pulse output end face 1422 at the same time, it is necessary to match the surface where the endpoints of the first ends 1621 of all first pins 162 are located with the pulse output end face 1422. By setting the first surface 1651 and the pulse output end face 1422 as planes, and the length of each first pin 162 extending from the first surface 1651 is the same, there is no need to adjust the position of the endpoint of each first pin 162 separately to adapt to the curvature of the pulse output end face. At this time, the surface where the endpoints of the first ends 1621 of all first pins 162 are located is a plane, and all first pins 162 can contact the corresponding pulse output terminal 1424 on the pulse output end face 1422 at the same time. This further improves the production efficiency of the pulse generator.

[0053] Furthermore, the inner diameter of the plug hole 1623 of the first plug pin 162 is equal to the outer diameter of the second plug pin 262; or, the outer diameter of the first plug pin is equal to the inner diameter of the plug hole of the second plug pin, so as to provide a larger contact area and ensure the connection effect.

[0054] Further, see again Figure 2B The first connection module 16 also has a second surface 1652, and the second end 1622 of each first plug pin 162 is exposed to the second surface 1652. The length of each first plug pin 162 exposed to the second surface 1652 is the same, and the plug-in matching length of each second plug pin 262 is the same as that of the first plug pin 162. This allows each first plug pin 162 to always contact the second plug pin 262 corresponding to it.

[0055] Further, see again Figure 4 The plurality of pulse output terminals 1424 are distributed in multiple layers along the circumferential direction on the pulse output end surface 1422. Specifically, the plurality of pulse output terminals include multiple layers of annular pulse output terminal layers from the inside to the outside, that is, in two adjacent layers, the inner layer is surrounded by the outer layer.

[0056] Replay Figure 3In the conventional structure shown, the transfer contact 482 of the conventional electrode receiving component 48 is connected to the flexible circuit board 44 through the transfer wire 46 on its side surface. When the electrode receiving component 48 is connected to the flexible circuit board 44, in order to ensure the connection stability between the transfer wire 46 and the flexible circuit board 44, avoid affecting the fixed connection between the electrode receiving component 48 and the flexible circuit board 44, and take into account the overall size of the neurostimulator, the connection points between the transfer wire 46 and the flexible circuit board 44 are usually set on the circumferential outside of the projection of the electrode receiving component 48 on the flexible circuit board 44, and in one layer (as shown in area A in the figure). However, this setting method will increase the risk of undesirable electrical connections between multiple connection points due to the too dense distribution of the connection points.

[0057] Back to Figure 4 Since the pulse output end face 1422 is opposite to the first surface 1651, the first pin 162 on the first surface 1651 and the pulse output terminal 1424 of the pulse output end face 1422 are welded and connected, that is, the welding point between the first pin 162 and the pulse output terminal 1424 is located on the projection of the first surface 1651 on the pulse output end face 1422. In this way, the space on the pulse output end face 1422 can be fully utilized, the density of the welding points between the first pin 162 and the pulse output terminal 1424 can be reduced, and the possibility of unexpected electrical connection between multiple welding points can be reduced, while taking into account the fixed connection between the first connection module 16 and the connection circuit board 14, and meeting the small size design requirements of the pulse generator.

[0058] like Figure 5B As shown, in an exemplary embodiment, the pulse generator further includes a support device 13, the support device is located in the housing and fixed to the housing (not shown), the support device 13 has a first receiving slot 131, the first receiving slot 131 is used to receive the first connecting module 16, and the support device 13 has a support rod extending along the first direction in the first receiving slot 131; the connecting circuit board 14 includes a pulse output terminal 142 for connecting to the first connecting module 16; the pulse output terminal 142 includes a first through hole 1425 along the first direction, and the first connecting module 16 also includes a second through hole 166 along the first direction; the first through hole 1425 and the second through hole 166 allow the support rod 132 to be inserted. Wherein, the support rod 132 is an irregular shape in the circumferential direction, the first through hole 1425 and the second through hole 166 are formed to be the same as the circumferential shape of the support rod 132, and when the support rod 132 is inserted into the first through hole 1425 and the second through hole 166, the pulse output terminal 142 and the first connecting module 16 will not undergo undesired circumferential rotation. By providing the support rod 132, the pulse generator can simultaneously support the pulse output end 142 and the first connection module 162 in the first direction. Figure 5BThe middle supporting device 13 and the first connecting module 16 are shown at different angles, but the two first directions in the figure are actually the same direction, which does not affect the connection relationship between the first surface 1651 and the pulse output end surface 1422 .

[0059] In an exemplary embodiment, if Figure 2B As shown, the first connection module 16 has a second through hole 166, and the second through hole 166 is suitable for receiving the limiting rod 29 of the stimulation electrode 20. When the limiting rod 29 is inserted into the second through hole 166, each first plug pin 162 is plugged and matched with the corresponding second plug pin 262. The inner surface of the second through hole 166 has a limiting groove 1662, and the limiting groove limits the limiting protrusion 292 on the outer surface of the rod 29, that is, the plugging angle between the limiting rod 29 and the second through hole 166 is unique. The limiting rod 29 extends beyond each second plug pin 262 in the axial direction to ensure that after the limiting rod 29 is accurately plugged into the second through hole 166 of the limiting hole, the first plug pin 162 and the corresponding second plug pin 262 can be accurately docked.

[0060] like Figure 2A , Figure 2B and Figure 6 As shown, the present disclosure also provides a stimulation electrode 20 adapted to the pulse generator 10 as described above, the stimulation electrode 20 comprises an electrode body 22, at least one wire 28 and a second connection module 26. Each wire 28 extends along the length direction of the electrode body 22, and one end of each wire 28 extends outside the electrode body 22, and the other end is connected to the stimulation electrode 20 for delivering a pulse output contact of a stimulation current to a target site.

[0061] The second connection module 26 is suitable for docking with the first connection module 16 of the pulse generator 20. The second connection module 26 includes a plurality of second pins 262. The plurality of second pins 262 respectively correspond to the plurality of first pins 162 in the pulse generator 20. The length of each second pin 262 is the same, and the second pins 262 are separated from the electrode body 22.

[0062] The first end 2621 of each second pin 262 is connected to one end of the wire 28 extending from the electrode body 22, and the second end 2622 of each second pin 262 is used to be inserted into the socket 1623 of the corresponding first pin 162, or the second end of each second pin is provided with a socket for receiving the corresponding first pin, wherein the height of the second end 2622 of each second pin 262 is flush.

[0063] The traditional electrode lead has multiple pulse input contacts distributed circumferentially on the side surface of the input end, and the inner surface of each pulse input contact is connected to a wire extending completely inside the electrode body of the electrode lead. To prevent the wire from loosening inside the electrode body, the length of each wire must be precisely controlled. During the production and processing process, after the wire is extended and wired inside the electrode body, it needs to be cut to a suitable length immediately so that it can be welded and connected to the corresponding pulse input contact. If one end of the wire is cut too short, it will affect the welding effect between the pulse input contact and the wire, as well as the flatness of the outer surface of the multiple pulse input contacts on the side surface of the electrode body of the electrode lead. Therefore, the precision control of the wire length is a difficult problem that must be solved in the processing of traditional electrode leads.

[0064] In this embodiment, since the length of each second pin 262 is the same, and the height of the second end 2622 of each second pin 262 is flush, it means that after one end of the plurality of wires 28 extends from the electrode body 22, all the wires 28 can be uniformly cut at one time, so that the length of one end of each wire 28 extending from the electrode body 22 is the same. In addition, the second pin 262 is separated from the electrode body 22, so there is no need to consider the flatness of the side surface of the stimulation electrode body after the wire is connected to the second pin (pulse input contact), and the wire length accuracy.

[0065] Exemplarily, a plurality of wires 28 extend from the end of the electrode body 22, which simplifies the overall structure of the stimulation electrode 20 and further reduces the difficulty of processing the stimulation electrode.

[0066] Furthermore, if Figure 6 As shown, the second connection module 26 also includes a second pin receiving portion 265, which is suitable for receiving a plurality of second pins 262. The plurality of second pins 262 extend from the second pin receiving portion 265 to the same length, and each second pin 262 has the same mating length as the corresponding first pin 162. This ensures that the plurality of second pins 262 can be mated with the corresponding first pin 162 at the same time.

[0067] Furthermore, if Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the second connection module 26 has a shielding component 267, which surrounds the second pin receiving portion 265 and forms a second receiving groove 269 together with the second pin receiving portion 265, and the depth of the second receiving groove 269 is greater than or equal to the axial length of the first connection module 16. When the second connection module 26 is connected to the first connection module 16, the shielding component 267 completely covers the outer surface of the first connection module 16, thereby achieving shielding against external electromagnetic waves.

[0068] Furthermore, if Figure 8As shown, when the second connection module is docked with the first connection module 16, the projection of the shielding component 267 on the plane perpendicular to the first direction partially overlaps with the projection of the first receiving slot 131 in the pulse generator on the plane perpendicular to the first direction (see the gray area in the figure). This is to avoid interference of electromagnetic waves from the external space on the connection between the first connection module 16 and the connection circuit board 14 for delivering stimulation signals. When the second connection module partially withdraws from the first connection module 16, the overlap of the projection of the shielding component 267 and the first receiving slot 131 can also prevent the connection circuit board 14 and the first connection module 16 from being exposed to electromagnetic waves from the external space too early.

[0069] Furthermore, if Fig. 9 As shown, the stimulation electrode 20 has a fastening assembly 23, which includes a fastening screw 231 and a fastening screw receiving portion 232 for receiving the fastening screw 231. The fastening screw receiving portion 232 has a first through hole, and the fastening screw receiving portion is sleeved on the outer surface of the electrode body 22 through the first through hole, and the fastening screw receiving portion 232 can move along the axial direction of the electrode body 22. The fastening screw receiving portion 232 has a second through hole, and the extension direction of the second through hole is perpendicular to the extension direction of the first through hole, and the second through hole is connected to the first through hole. The inner surface of the second through hole has a thread, which is convenient for the fastening screw 231 to be inserted. As the fastening screw 231 is screwed deeper, the end of the fastening screw 231 abuts the outer surface of the electrode body 22, and the fastening assembly 23 is stationary relative to the electrode body 22. The shielding component 267 is movable along the axial direction of the electrode body 22 and surrounds the fastening screw receiving portion 232 in the circumferential direction. The outer surface of the shielding component 267 has a through hole that allows the set screw 231 to partially pass through. After passing through the through hole, the set screw 231 enters the second through hole and the end abuts the outer surface of the electrode body 22. At this time, the shielding component 267 is stationary relative to the electrode body 22.

[0070] In order to maintain good visibility when the second connection module is inserted into the first connection module, the shielding component cannot block the plugging process in any form before the second connection module is inserted into the first connection module. Therefore, by using the cooperation between the fastening component and the shielding component, the shielding component can be moved and fixed on the surface of the electrode body.

[0071] It should be understood that the term “including” and its variations used in the present disclosure are open inclusions, ie, “including but not limited to.” The term “one embodiment” means “at least one embodiment,” and the term “another embodiment” means “at least one additional embodiment.”

[0072] The above is only a specific embodiment of the present disclosure, but the protection scope of the present disclosure is not limited thereto. Any changes or substitutions that can be thought of by any technician familiar with the technical field within the technical scope disclosed in the present disclosure should be included in the protection scope of the present disclosure. Therefore, the protection scope of the present disclosure should be based on the protection scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A pulse generator, applicable to an electrical stimulation system, wherein the electrical stimulation system further comprises a stimulation electrode, wherein the pulse generator is used to generate an electrical stimulation pulse, wherein the electrical stimulation pulse is delivered to a target tissue via the stimulation electrode, wherein: The pulse generator includes a shell and a main control board, a connecting circuit board and a first connecting module located in the shell. The main control board is configured to generate the electrical stimulation pulse, and the electrical stimulation pulse is transmitted to the stimulation electrode via the connecting circuit board and the first connecting module. The first connecting module includes a plurality of first pins, and the stimulation electrode includes a plurality of second pins, and the plurality of first pins correspond to the plurality of second pins respectively, wherein: The first end of each first pin is fixedly connected to the connecting circuit board, each first pin is plugged into and matched with the corresponding second pin, and the second end of each first pin is provided with a socket for receiving the corresponding second pin; or, the first end of each first pin is fixedly connected to the connecting circuit board, and the second end of each first pin is used to insert into the socket of the corresponding second pin.

2. The pulse generator according to claim 1, characterized in that The connecting circuit board includes a pulse output terminal for connecting to the first connecting module, and the pulse output end face of the pulse output terminal is fixedly connected to the first pin; the first connecting module also includes a first pin receiving portion, each first pin is partially embedded in the first pin receiving portion, the first pin receiving portion has a first surface, the first surface is arranged to face the pulse output end face, the first surface and the pulse output end face are plane, the first end of each first pin is exposed to the first surface, and the length of each first pin extending from the first surface is the same.

3. The pulse generator according to claim 2, characterized in that The first pin receiving portion also has a second surface, the second end of each first pin is exposed to the second surface, the length of each first pin exposed to the second surface is the same, and the plug-in mating length of each second pin is the same as that of the first pin.

4. The pulse generator according to claim 2, characterized in that: The inner diameter of the insertion hole of the first pin is equal to the outer diameter of the second pin; or the outer diameter of the first pin is equal to the inner diameter of the insertion hole of the second pin.

5. The pulse generator according to claim 2, characterized in that: The pulse output end includes a plurality of pulse output terminals, each of which is suitable for connecting to a corresponding first pin, and the pulse output terminal is recessed on the pulse output end surface.

6. The pulse generator according to claim 2, characterized in that: The pulse output end comprises a plurality of pulse output terminals, each of which is suitable for connecting to the first end of a corresponding first pin, and the plurality of pulse output terminals are distributed in multiple layers along the circumferential direction on the pulse output end surface.

7. The pulse generator according to claim 1, characterized in that: The pulse generator also includes a supporting device, which is located in the shell and fixed to the shell, and the supporting device has a supporting rod extending along a first direction; the connecting circuit board includes a pulse output terminal for connecting to the first connecting module; the pulse output terminal includes a first through hole along the first direction, and the first connecting module also includes a second through hole along the first direction; the first through hole and the second through hole allow the support rod to be inserted.

8. The pulse generator according to claim 7, characterized in that The first pin receiving portion has a second through hole, and the second through hole is suitable for receiving the limiting rod of the stimulation electrode. When the limiting rod is inserted into the second through hole, each first pin is plugged into and matched with the corresponding second pin; the inner surface of the second through hole has a limiting groove, and the limiting groove is suitable for receiving the limiting protrusion formed on the outer surface of the limiting rod. The limiting rod extends axially beyond each second pin.

9. The pulse generator according to claim 1, characterized in that: When the jack is located at the first pin, the depth of the jack is less than the length of the first pin.

10. A stimulation electrode adapted for use with a pulse generator as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that: The stimulation electrode comprises: Electrode body; at least one wire extending along the length direction of the electrode body and having one end extending outside the electrode body; and The second connection module is suitable for docking with the first connection module of the pulse generator, and the second connection module includes a plurality of second pins, and the plurality of second pins correspond to the plurality of first pins in the pulse generator respectively, and each second pin has the same length, and the second pin is separated from the electrode body, wherein, The first end of each second pin is connected to one end of a wire extending from the electrode body, and the second end of each second pin is used to insert into the socket of the corresponding first pin, or the second end of each second pin is provided with a socket for receiving the corresponding first pin, wherein the height of the second end of each second pin is flush.

11. The stimulation electrode according to claim 10, characterized in that: The plurality of wires extend from an end portion of the electrode body.

12. The stimulation electrode according to claim 10, characterized in that: The second connection module also includes a second pin receiving portion, which is suitable for receiving the plurality of second pins. The plurality of second pins extend out of the second pin receiving portion at the same length, and each second pin at one end of the plurality of second pins has the same mating length with the corresponding first pin.

13. The stimulation electrode according to claim 10, characterized in that: The second connecting module has a shielding component, which surrounds the second pin receiving portion and forms a second receiving groove together with the second pin receiving portion. The depth of the second receiving groove is greater than or equal to the axial length of the first connecting module. When the second connecting module is docked with the first connecting module, the shielding component completely covers the outer surface of the first connecting module.

14. The stimulation electrode according to claim 13, characterized in that: When the second connecting module is docked with the first connecting module, the projection of the shielding component on a plane perpendicular to the first direction partially overlaps with the projection of the first receiving slot in the pulse generator on a plane perpendicular to the first direction.

15. The stimulation electrode according to claim 14, characterized in that: The stimulation electrode also includes a fastening component, which includes a fastening screw and a fastening screw receiving part for receiving the fastening screw, the fastening screw receiving part has a first through hole, the fastening screw receiving part is sleeved on the outer surface of the electrode body through the first through hole, the fastening screw receiving part can move along the axial direction of the electrode body, the fastening screw receiving part also has a second through hole, the second through hole is connected to the first through hole, the shielding component is movable along the axial direction of the electrode body and circumferentially surrounds the fastening screw receiving part, and the shielding component has a through hole that allows the fastening screw to partially pass through.

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