System and method for maintaining TTField during battery replacement

Abstract

An electronic device is disclosed herein. The electronic device includes: an electric field generator providing a first electrical signal having a first alternating current waveform having a frequency between 50 kHz and 1 MHz; and a controller in communication with the electric field generator, the controller having an input, a processor, and a memory storing an accelerated power-up program, a standard power-up program, and computer executable instructions that cause the processor to: receive a generator power-off event through the input; detecting the generator power-off event; deactivating the electric field generator; storing the operating parameters; determining an operating state based at least in part on the operating parameter; and activating the electric field generator using the acceleration power-up procedure in response to the operation state being the acceleration state to provide a second electrical signal; the second electrical signal has a second alternating current waveform having a frequency between 50 kHz and 1 MHz.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 377,642, filed on September 29, 2022, entitled “SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MAINTAINING TTFIELDS DURING BATTERY CHANGES,” the entire contents of which are hereby expressly incorporated herein by reference. Background Art

[0003] Tumor treatment fields (TTField or TTF) are low intensity (e.g., 1 V / cm to 3 V / cm) AC electric fields in the medium frequency range (e.g., 50 kHz to 1 MHz, such as 50 kHz to 500 kHz) that target solid tumors by interfering with mitosis. This noninvasive treatment targets solid tumors and is described, for example, in U.S. Patent Nos. 7,016,725; 7,089,054; 7,333,852; 7,565,205; 8,244,345; 8,715,203; 8,764,675; 10,188,851; and 10,441,776. TTFields are typically delivered via two pairs of transducer arrays that generate perpendicular fields within the tumor being treated; the transducer arrays that make up each of these pairs are located on opposite sides of the body part being treated. In the TTField system, one pair of electrodes of the transducer array is located on the left and right sides (LR) of the tumor, and another pair of electrodes of the transducer array is located on the anterior and posterior sides (AP) of the tumor. TTField is approved for the treatment of glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) and can be used, for example, by system (Novocure Limited, St. Helier, Jersey), which The system consists of a transducer array placed on the patient's light head. Recently, TTField therapy has been approved as a combination therapy with chemotherapy for malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) and can be used to treat tumors in other parts of the body.

[0004] The device is intended to be worn continuously by the patient for 2 to 4 days, then removed for hygiene care and re-shaving (if necessary), followed by reapplication of a new set of arrays. As the patient uses the device and goes about their daily activities, the device may be used for extended periods of time during which the patient is not near a power source. Therefore, the device may include batteries. Summary of the invention

[0005] As discussed above, The device can be used for extended periods of time during which the patient is not near a power source. Traditionally, replacing batteries requires shutting down the device and replacing the batteries. Because the system is shut down, the device must go through a traditional initialization process during which the TTFields applied to the patient are initially supplied at low power and slowly increased to operating power over a period of approximately 30 minutes to ensure that the transducer arrays are properly applied to the patient to avoid harming the patient (e.g., a standard power-up process). However, supplying low power during this traditional initialization process reduces the amount of therapy the patient receives.

[0006] Therefore, there is a need for new and improved systems to maintain operating power and / or shorten reinitialization time and provide full-power TTFields to patients more quickly (e.g., speed up the power-up process), especially during battery replacement. The present disclosure relates to such systems and methods of making and using such systems.

[0007] The problem of reducing the reinitialization time and providing a full-power TTField to a patient is solved by an electronic device for delivering a TTField to a subject's body, the electronic device comprising an electric field generator and a controller. The electric field generator is configured to provide a first electrical signal having a first alternating current waveform with a frequency in a range from 50 kHz to 1 MHz. The controller communicates with the electric field generator to control the output of the electric field generator. The controller has an input terminal, a processor, and a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the non-transitory computer-readable medium storing an accelerated power-up program, a standard power-up program, and computer-executable instructions, which when executed by the processor cause the processor to perform the following operations: receiving a generator power-off event through the input terminal, the generator power-off event being a physical interaction with the input terminal; detecting the generator power-off event; deactivating the electric field generator so as to stop providing the first electrical signal; storing operating parameters indicating the operation of the electric field generator or the cessation of the operation of the electric field generator; at least partially based on The operating parameters determine an operating state, which is one of an accelerated state and a standard state; and the electric field generator is activated to provide: i) a second electrical signal, which is activated in response to the operating state being the accelerated state and using the accelerated power-on procedure; the second electrical signal has a second AC waveform with a frequency ranging from 50 kHz to 1 MHz; or ii) a third electrical signal, which is activated in response to the operating state being the standard state and using the standard power-on procedure, the third electrical signal has a third AC waveform with a frequency ranging from 50 kHz to 1 MHz.

[0008] The details of one or more implementations of the subject matter described in this specification are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other aspects, features, and advantages of the subject matter will become apparent from the description, drawings, and claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate one or more embodiments described herein and, together with the description, explain these embodiments. The drawings are not intended to be drawn to scale, and certain features and certain views of the drawings may be shown exaggerated in scale or in schematic form for the sake of clarity and conciseness. Not every component may be labeled in every drawing. The same reference numerals in the drawings may represent and refer to the same or similar elements or functions. In the drawings:

[0010] Figure 1 is an exemplary embodiment of a schematic diagram of an electrode as applied to living tissue;

[0011] Figure 2 is an exemplary embodiment of an electronic device configured to generate a TTField constructed in accordance with the present disclosure;

[0012] Figure 3 is a block diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a transducer array constructed in accordance with the present disclosure;

[0013] Figure 4 is constructed according to the present disclosure Figure 2 A block diagram of an exemplary embodiment of an electric field generator; and

[0014] Figure 5 is a process flow diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a battery replacement process according to the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0015] Before explaining at least one embodiment of the inventive concept in detail through exemplary language and results, it should be understood that the application of the inventive concept is not limited to the details of the construction and arrangement of the components set forth in the following description. The inventive concept is capable of other embodiments or can be practiced or executed in various ways. Therefore, the language used herein is intended to give the broadest possible scope and meaning; and these embodiments are intended to be exemplary rather than exhaustive. In addition, it should be understood that the wording and terminology used herein are for descriptive purposes and should not be considered restrictive.

[0016] The titles are provided only for convenience and should not be construed as limiting the present invention in any way. The embodiments illustrated under any title or in any part of the present disclosure may be combined with the embodiments illustrated under the same or any other title or other part of the present disclosure. Unless otherwise specified herein or clearly contradicted by the context, the present invention encompasses any combination of the elements described herein in all possible variations thereof.

[0017] Unless otherwise required by context, singular terms shall include pluralities and plural terms shall include the singular.

[0018] All compositions, assemblies, systems, kits, and / or methods disclosed herein can be made and executed in light of the present disclosure without undue experimentation. When a method claim does not specifically state in the claim or description that the steps are limited to a particular order, it is not intended to infer an order in any respect. This applies to any possible non-express basis for interpretation, including logical matters regarding the arrangement of steps or operational flows, direct meaning derived from grammatical organization or punctuation, or the number or type of embodiments described in the description. Similarly, when the claims or description do not specifically state that the computer-executable events produced by the computer-executable instructions are limited to a particular order, it is not intended to infer an order in any respect.

[0019] When used in conjunction with the term "comprising" in the claims and / or the specification, the use of the terms "a" or "an" may mean "one", but is also consistent with the meaning of "one or more", "at least one", and "one or more than one". The term "plurality" means "two or more".

[0020] In addition, the use of the term "at least one of X, Y, and Z" will be understood to include X alone, Y alone, and Z alone, as well as any combination of X, Y, and Z. The use of ordinal terms (e.g., "first," "second," "third," "fourth," etc.) is only used for the purpose of distinguishing two or more items and is not meant to imply any order or sequence or importance, such as one item relative to another, or any order of addition.

[0021] The term "or" as used in the claims is intended to mean the inclusive "and / or" unless explicitly stated to refer to only alternatives, or unless the alternatives are mutually exclusive.

[0022] As used herein, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, all values ​​or ranges include endpoints as well as values ​​and fractions of integers and fractions of integers within such ranges. Thus, for illustration, references to numerical ranges such as 1 to 10 include 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 and 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.4, 1.5, etc., as well as sub-ranges (e.g., 2 to 8) within larger ranges (1 to 10), and the like.

[0023] As used herein, circuits may be analog and / or digital components, or one or more appropriately programmed processors (e.g., microprocessors) and associated hardware and software, or hardwired logic. In addition, a "component" may perform one or more functions. The term "component" may include hardware, such as a processor (e.g., microprocessor), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), and / or a combination of hardware and software, etc. The term "processor" as used herein means a single processor or multiple processors that work alone or together to perform a task together.

[0024] A program or software may include one or more computer executable instructions that, when executed by one or more components (e.g., a processor), cause the component to perform a specified function. It should be understood that the processes and / or algorithms described herein may be stored on one or more non-transitory computer readable media. Exemplary non-transitory computer readable media may include random access memory, read-only memory, and / or flash memory, etc. Such non-transitory computer readable media may be electronically based, optically based, and / or magnetically based, etc.

[0025] As used herein, the term TTField (or TTF) refers to a low-intensity (e.g., 1 V / cm to 4 V / cm) alternating electric field of medium frequency (about 50 kHz to 1 MHz, and more preferably from about 50 kHz to 500 kHz) that can be used, for example, to treat tumors when applied to a conductive medium (such as the human body) via electrodes, as described in Palti's U.S. Patents 7,016,725, 7,089,054, 7,333,852, 7,565,205, 7,805,201, and 8,244,345, and Kirson's publication (see Eilon D. Kirson et al., "Disruption of Cancer Cell Replication by Alternating Electric Fields," Cancer Res. 2004 64:3288-3295). TTFields have been shown to have the ability to specifically affect cancer cells and are used, among other uses, to treat cancer. TTField therapy is an approved monotherapy for recurrent glioblastoma (GBM) and an approved combination therapy with chemotherapy for newly diagnosed GBM patients.

[0026] As used herein, the term TTSignal is an electrical signal that, when received by an electrode applied to a conductive medium such as a human body, causes the electrode to generate the above-mentioned TTField. TTSignal is typically an AC electrical signal.

[0027] Referring now to the drawings and in particular Figure 1 , which shows an exemplary embodiment of a dividing cell 10 under the influence of an external TTField (generally indicated by line 14) generated by a first electrode 18a having a negative charge and a second electrode 18b having a positive charge. Microtubules 22 are also shown, which are known to have very strong dipole moments. This strong polarization makes the microtubules 22 and other polar macromolecules (and especially those with a specific orientation in or around the cell 10) susceptible to the influence of the electric field. The positive charge of the microtubules 22 is located at two centrosomes 26, while the two sets of negative poles are located at the center 30 of the dividing cell 10 and the attachment point 34 of the microtubules 22 to the cell membrane. The position of the charge forms multiple sets of double dipoles and is therefore susceptible to electric fields of different directions. In one embodiment, the cell undergoes electroporation, i.e., an electric pulse is used to introduce DNA or chromosomes into the cell to briefly open holes in the cell membrane.

[0028] Now go to Figure 2 It has been found that the above-mentioned TTFields that advantageously destroy tumor cells can be generated by an electronic device 50. Figure 2is a simple schematic diagram of an electronic device 50 illustrating its major components. The electronic device 50 includes an electric field generator 54 and a pair of conductive leads 58, the pair of conductive leads including a first conductive lead 58a and a second conductive lead 58b. The first conductive lead 58a includes a first end 62a and a second end 62b. The second conductive lead 58b includes a first end 66a and a second end 66b. The first end 62a of the first conductive lead 58a is conductively attached to a first electrode array port 90a of the electric field generator 54, and the first end 66a of the second conductive lead 58b is conductively attached to a second electrode array port 90b of the electric field generator 54.

[0029] The electric field generator 54 is configured to supply power to each electrode array port 90 and generate a desired electrical signal (TTSignal) in a waveform or pulse train shape as an output. The second end 62b of the first conductive lead 58a is connected to the electrode array 70a, and the second end 66b of the second conductive lead 58b is connected to the electrode array 70b. Both the electrode array 70a and the electrode array 70b are activated by an electrical signal (e.g., TTSignal, waveform). The electrode array 70a and the electrode array 70b are activated by the electrical signal, so that the current flows between the electrode array 70a and the electrode array 70b. The current generates an electric field (i.e., TTField) with a frequency and amplitude between the electrode array 70a and the electrode array 70b.

[0030] Although Figure 2 The illustrated electronic device 50 includes only two electrode arrays 70 (ie, electrode array 70 a and electrode array 70 b ), but in some embodiments, the electronic device 50 may include more than two electrode arrays 70 .

[0031] The electric field generator 54 generates an alternating voltage waveform (i.e., TTSignal) having a frequency in the range of from about 50 kHz to about 1 MHz (preferably from about 100 kHz to about 500 kHz). The desired voltage is such that the electric field strength in the tissue within the treatment area is in the range of from about 0.1 V / cm to about 10 V / cm. To achieve this electric field strength, two conductors (e.g., Figure 3 The potential difference between the electrode elements 104 in the circuit is determined by the relative impedances of the system components, for example, the ratio of the electric field across each component is given by the impedance of that component divided by the total circuit impedance.

[0032] In certain specific (but non-limiting) embodiments, electrode arrays 70a and 70b generate an alternating current and an electric field within a target region of a patient. The target region typically includes at least one tumor, and the generation of the alternating current and electric field selectively destroys and / or inhibits the growth of the tumor. The alternating current and electric field may be generated at any frequency that selectively destroys or inhibits the growth of a tumor, such as at any frequency of a TTField.

[0033] In some specific (but non-limiting) embodiments, the alternating current and the electric field can be applied at two or more different frequencies. When there are two or more frequencies, each frequency is selected from any of the above values, or a range formed by any of the above values, or a range of two integers falling between two values ​​in the above values.

[0034] In order to optimize the electric field (i.e., TTField) distribution, the electrode array 70a and the electrode array 70b (a pair of transducer arrays) can be configured differently depending on the application of the electrode arrays 70a and 70b to be used. As described herein, the pair of electrode arrays 70a and 70b are applied externally to the patient, that is, the pair of electrode arrays are typically applied to the patient's skin to apply current and electric fields (TTFields) to generate current in the patient's tissue. Typically, the pair of electrode arrays 70a and 70b are placed on the patient's skin by the user so that an electric field is generated throughout the patient's tissue within the treatment area. The externally applied TTField can be localized or widely distributed, such as for treating skin tumors and treating lesions near the skin surface.

[0035] In one embodiment, the user may be a medical professional, such as a doctor, nurse, therapist, or other personnel working under the guidance of a doctor, nurse, or therapist. In another embodiment, the user may be a patient, i.e., the patient (and / or an assistant) may place the electrode array 70a and the electrode array 70b on the patient's treatment area.

[0036] According to another exemplary embodiment, the electronic device 50 includes a controller 74 and optionally a temperature sensor 78 coupled to the controller 74 .

[0037] In one embodiment, the controller 74 includes a circuit configured to control the output of the electric field generator 54, for example, to set the output to a maximum value that does not cause excessive heating of the treatment area. When the temperature of the treatment area (as sensed by the temperature sensor 78) exceeds a preset limit, the controller 74 may issue a warning, etc. The temperature sensor 78 may be mechanically connected to the electrode array 70a and / or the electrode array 70b and / or otherwise associated therewith so as to sense the temperature of the treatment area at one or both of the electrode array 70a or the electrode array 70b. In one embodiment, if the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor 78 reaches or exceeds a comfort threshold, the controller 74 may shut down or reduce the power of the TTSignal generated by the electric field generator 54. In one embodiment, the comfort threshold is a temperature that makes the patient feel uncomfortable when using the electrode array 70a and the electrode array 70b. In one embodiment, the comfort threshold is a temperature of 40 degrees Celsius or about 40 degrees Celsius. In one embodiment, the comfort threshold is a temperature between about 39 degrees Celsius and 42 degrees Celsius, or a particular selected temperature between about 39 degrees Celsius and 42 degrees Celsius, such as, for example, 41 degrees Celsius.

[0038] Conductive lead 58 is a standard isolated conductor with a flexible metal shield (preferably grounded) to prevent the spread of any electric field generated by conductive lead 58. Electrode arrays 70a and 70b may be specifically shaped and positioned to generate a TTField of a desired configuration, direction, and intensity to focus therapy at and only at the treatment area.

[0039] The overall specifications of the electronic device 50 and its various components are largely influenced by the fact that at the frequencies of the TTField, living systems function according to their "Ohmic mechanisms" rather than their dielectric properties.

[0040] In one embodiment, the electric field generator 54 also includes one or more generator battery ports 82 (e.g., Figure 2 The one or more generator battery ports are operable to receive or connect to a generator battery and electrically connect the generator battery to the electric field generator 54 to supply power to the electric field generator 54, as described below with respect to Figure 4 Described in more detail.

[0041] Additionally, in some embodiments, the controller 74 may include one or more controller battery ports 86 operable to receive or connect to a controller battery 158 ( Figure 4 ), and electrically connect the controller battery 158 to the controller 74, as described below with respect to Figure 4 Described in more detail.

[0042] Reference now Figure 3 , which shows a diagram of an exemplary embodiment of an electrode array 70 constructed according to the present disclosure. The electrode array 70 includes one or more electrode elements 104. Figure 3 As shown, each electrode array 70 is configured as a group of one or more electrode elements 104. The electrode array 70 may utilize capacitively coupled electrode elements 104. Figure 3 In the example shown, the electrode array 70 is configured as a plurality of electrode elements 104 (e.g., about 2 cm in diameter) interconnected via flexible wires 108 (and connected to an electric field generator via conductive leads 58). Each electrode element 104 may include a dielectric layer (such as a ceramic disk or a high dielectric thin film polymer layer) and an electrode layer. In one embodiment, the electrode array 70 includes a peripheral edge 132.

[0043] Alternative configurations of the electrode array 70 may be used, including, for example, disc-shaped ceramic elements, non-disc-shaped ceramic elements, and non-ceramic dielectric materials between electrode layers on multiple flat conductors and the skin-facing surface of the electrode array 70. Examples of non-ceramic dielectric materials on flat conductors include polymer films disposed over electrical contacts on a printed circuit board or over flat metal pieces. Electrode arrays 70 utilizing non-capacitively coupled electrode elements 104 may also be used. In this case, each electrode element 104 of the transducer array is implemented using a piece of conductive material configured to be placed against the patient's body, wherein no insulating dielectric layer is disposed between the electrode element 104 and the patient's body. Examples of conductive materials include conductive films, conductive fabrics, and conductive foams. Other alternative configurations for implementing the electrode array 70 may also be used, as long as these alternative configurations are capable of delivering TTFields to the patient's body. Optionally, in any of the embodiments described herein, a gel layer (e.g., a conductive gel layer) or a conductive adhesive layer may be disposed between the electrode array 70 and the patient's body.

[0044] Reference now Figure 4 , which shows a structure constructed according to the present disclosure Figure 2 A block diagram of an exemplary embodiment of an electronic device 50 is shown. Figure 4 As shown, the electronic device 50 generally includes an electric field generator 54 supported by a housing 150. In some embodiments, the housing 150 may further support a controller 74. Figure 4 It further shows Figure 2 , such as first and second conductive leads 58a, 58b, each of which is conductively attached to first and second electrode array ports 90a, 90b of electric field generator 54 via first end 62a of first and second conductive leads 58b, respectively, as described with respect to Figure 2described.

[0045] In one embodiment, one or more generator battery ports 82 (e.g., 82a and 82b) operable to receive generator batteries 154 (e.g., 154a and 154b) are supported by the housing 150 and electrically coupled to the electric field generator 54. The generator battery ports 82 may be separate from and supported by the housing 150, or may be formed in whole and / or in part within the housing 150.

[0046] In one embodiment, the electronic device 50 includes a first generator battery port 82a and an optional second generator battery port 82b, such as Figure 4 In this embodiment, each of the first generator battery port 82a and the second generator battery port 82b can independently supply power to the electric field generator 54. In some embodiments, the first generator battery port 82a can be associated with the first generator battery 154a, and the second generator battery port 82b can be associated with the second generator battery 154b.

[0047] In one embodiment, the electronic device 50 includes a controller battery port 86 that is coupled to the processor 162 via circuitry to supply power to the processor 162 and other components of the controller 74 (such as the memory 166) independently of any power supplied to the first generator battery port 82a and / or the optional second generator battery port 82b.

[0048] In one embodiment, the electronic device 50 also includes a controller charging circuit operable to charge the controller battery 158. In some embodiments, the controller battery 158 may be charged from one or more of the first generator battery 154a and the second generator battery 154b. In some embodiments, the controller battery 158 may be charged via the power port 88.

[0049] In one embodiment, the electronic device 50 also includes a power port 88. The power port 88 may be separate from and supported by the housing 150, or may be formed entirely and / or partially within the housing 150. The power port 88 may be operable to supply power to the electric field generator 54 and / or the controller 74 independently of any generator battery 154 and / or controller battery 158. In some embodiments, the electronic device 50 receiving power from the power port 88 may include circuitry operable to charge the generator battery 154 and / or the controller battery 158.

[0050] In one embodiment, the controller 74 may also include circuitry for interfacing with the generator battery port 82 and the controller battery port 86. The circuitry may include, for example, a processor 162 in communication with a non-transitory computer readable medium (e.g., a memory 166). The memory 166 may store computer executable instructions that, when executed by the processor 162, cause the processor 162 to perform one or more actions, such as described below. In one embodiment, the controller 74 is integrated with the electric field generator 54.

[0051] In some embodiments, the first generator battery 154a may be characterized as a primary battery and the second generator battery 154b may be characterized as a backup battery. In these embodiments, the controller 74 is configured to maintain the TTField delivered to the patient during battery replacement. In these embodiments, the first generator battery 154a has a much greater capacity than the second generator battery 154b. For example, the first generator battery 154a may be a 100W, 30V battery with a first charge capacity of approximately 3,000mAh, while the second generator battery 154b (e.g., a backup battery) may be a 30V battery with a second charge capacity of approximately 300mAh. In some embodiments, the first generator battery 154a provides 20Wh to 30Wh to the electric field generator 54 for a duration of between 3 hours and 4 hours.

[0052] In one embodiment, the first generator battery 154a is configured to supply continuous power to the electric field generator 54 for a relatively long period of time, such as a period of time between 30 minutes and 300 minutes. The second generator battery 154b is configured to supply continuous power to the electric field generator 54 for a much shorter period of time, such as a period of time between 1 minute and 10 minutes. In these embodiments, the circuitry of the electronic device 50 may be configured to permit the first generator battery 154a to supply continuous power until the charge capacity of the first generator battery 154a is at or below a predetermined charge level. Upon determining that the first generator battery 154a is at or below a predetermined charge level, the processor 162 provides a signal to the user to replace the first generator battery 154a, and then also provides a signal to the electric field generator 54 to begin drawing power from the second generator battery 154b. The second generator battery 154b provides power to the electric field generator 54 during the period when the first generator battery 154a is disconnected from the first generator battery port 82a (i.e., being replaced), thereby providing continuous power to the electric field generator 54 and avoiding the traditional initialization process discussed above. Upon completion of replacement and installation of the replacement first generator battery 154a (i.e., replacement has occurred and the replacement generator battery is connected to the first generator battery port 82a), a signal is provided to the electric field generator 54 to begin drawing power from the (replacement) first generator battery 154a and to begin charging the second generator battery 154b in anticipation of another future power supply replacement. In one embodiment, the charge of the second generator battery 154b is 1 / 3 to 1 / 300 of the charge capacity of the first generator battery 154a, and more preferably in the range of 1 / 5 to 1 / 300 of the charge capacity of the first generator battery 154a, such as, for example, 1 / 10. In one embodiment, the replacement first generator cell 154a may be referred to as a replacement cell or a replacement generator cell.

[0053] In one embodiment, the processor 162 in communication with each of the first generator battery port 82a and the second generator battery port 82b can determine or detect the presence and / or current capacity of the first generator battery 154a and / or the second generator battery 154b. Additionally, the processor 162 in communication with the controller battery port 86 can determine or detect the presence and / or current capacity of the controller battery 158.

[0054] In one embodiment, the processor 162 in communication with each generator battery port 82 (e.g., the first generator battery port 82a and the second generator battery port 82b) may detect the insertion and / or new connection of the generator battery 154 to the generator battery port 82 and trigger a generator battery replacement event in response to the detection. For example, if the generator battery 154 is newly connected to or inserted into the second generator battery port 82b, the processor 162 of the controller 74 may detect the insertion of the generator battery 154 and, in response, trigger a generator battery replacement event.

[0055] In one embodiment, a processor 162 in communication with each generator battery port 82 (e.g., the first generator battery port 82a and the second generator battery port 82b) may monitor and detect the removal of the generator battery 154 and / or its disconnection from the generator battery port 82, and trigger a generator power-off event in response to the detection. For example, if the generator battery 154 is disconnected and / or removed from the first generator battery port 82a and / or the second generator battery port 82b, the processor 162 of the controller 74 may detect the removal of the generator battery 154, and in response, trigger a generator power-off event. Alternatively, in an embodiment, the processor 162 of the controller 74 may be programmed to trigger a generator power-off event only when the first generator battery 154a is disconnected or removed from the first generator battery port 82a. In an embodiment, if only the second generator battery 154b is disconnected or removed from the second generator battery port 82b, the processor 162 of the controller 74 may be programmed to generate a warning signal indicating such an event.

[0056] In one embodiment, a processor 162 in communication with each generator battery port 82 (e.g., the first generator battery port 82a and the second generator battery port 82b) may detect a battery charge or charge capacity of the generator battery 154 connected to the generator battery port 82. The battery charge may be, for example, a battery capacity such as milliampere hours (mAh) or may be a percentage such as a remaining battery charge percentage. In some embodiments, the processor 162 may compare the charge capacity of the connected generator battery 154 to a minimum operating capacity, and if the charge capacity is less than (or approximately equal to) the minimum operating capacity, the processor 162 may generate a signal indicating that the generator battery has a charge capacity below the minimum operating capacity.

[0057] In one embodiment, the minimum operating capacity is the minimum charge capacity that the battery must have in order for the controller 74 to activate the electric field generator 54. For example, if the generator battery 154 connected to the generator battery port 82 does not have enough charge to power the electric field generator 54 for a predetermined duration, the processor 162 may generate a signal indicating as much charge. Once the user is notified that the generator battery 154 is not charged enough to power the electric field generator 54, the user may be instructed to, for example, replace the generator battery 154 and / or place the generator battery 154 on a charger.

[0058] The processor 162 may also communicate with the electric field generator 54. The processor 162 may activate the electric field generator 54 so that the electric field generator 54 sends a TTSignal at a predetermined power within a predetermined time period. For example, the processor 162 may cause the electric field generator 54 to send a TTSignal at a first initial power, and then increase the first initial power to an operating power within a predetermined time period (e.g., a ramp-up time period). The processor 162 may further cause the electric field generator 54 to send a TTSignal at a first initial voltage or a first initial current, and then increase the first initial voltage or the first initial current to an operating voltage or an operating current within a predetermined time period (e.g., a ramp-up time period). The processor 162 may further deactivate the electric field generator 54 so that the electric field generator 54 stops sending a TTSignal.

[0059] The processor 162 in communication with the electric field generator 54 may store one or more operating parameters of the electric field generator 54 in the memory 166, for example, in response to a generator power-off event. The one or more operating parameters are data indicating the operation of the electric field generator 54 or the cessation of the operation of the electric field generator 54. For example, the operating parameter may be a calculated result or a measured result of the output of the electric field generator 54, i.e., one or more of the power of the TTSignal sent by the electric field generator 54 immediately before deactivation, a timestamp indicating the time when the electric field generator 54 was activated and / or deactivated, a deactivation duration, a circuit resistance, a voltage of the TTSignal sent by the electric field generator 54 before deactivation, and / or the power of the TTSignal sent by the electric field generator 54 before deactivation, etc.

[0060] Additionally, in some embodiments, the processor 162 may store one or more operating parameters in the memory 166 that indicate battery characteristics of each of the generator battery 154 and / or the controller battery 158. The one or more battery characteristics may include a battery charge level of each generator battery 154, a battery charge level of the controller battery 158, a timestamp indicating when the generator battery 154 was installed or fully charged, a timestamp indicating when the controller battery 158 was installed or fully charged, and / or a cycle count of the generator battery 154 and / or the controller battery 158, etc. The processor may be configured to continuously store such data (operating parameters) before and after a generator power off event.

[0061] In one embodiment, the controller 74 may store an accelerated power-up program 170 and a standard power-up program 174 in the memory 166. The standard power-up program 174, when executed, causes the processor 162 to perform a standard initialization process in which the TTField supplied to the patient is initially low and then slowly ramps up over a relatively long period of time (such as 30 minutes). The accelerated power-up program 170 stored in the memory 166 may include computer executable instructions that, when executed by the processor 162, cause the processor 162 to perform an accelerated power-up process in which the TTField supplied to the patient is at or within 10% of the operating power, as explained below. When one or more operating parameters provided to the processor 162 indicate that the electrode array 70 ( Figure 2 ) may have been tampered with or recently administered to a patient, the standard power-up procedure 174 may be used to initiate TTFields supplied to the patient (as a safety measure). When one or more operating parameters provided to the processor 162 indicate that it is safe to do so (e.g., when one or more operating parameters indicate that the electrode array 70 has not been tampered with or newly administered to the patient), the accelerated power-up procedure 170 may be used to initiate TTFields supplied to the patient at a higher power level to provide a higher level of therapy to the patient.

[0062] In one embodiment, the electronic device 50 includes one or more inputs 176 that are integrated with the housing 150 and / or at least partially supported by the housing. The processor 162 can detect one or more interactions with the inputs 176 (i.e., inputs associated with battery replacement or generator power-off events), and upon detecting an interaction indicating an intention to shut down the electric field generator 54 or replace the generator battery 154, a generator power-off event can be triggered. A generator power-off event is a physical interaction with an input 176 of the electronic device 50 that indicates that the electric field generator 54 should be powered off. The intention to shut down the electric field generator 54 can be the intention of the user or pre-programmed based on certain conditions provided to the input 176. The input 176 can be, for example, a button indicating an intention to perform a battery replacement, a power button of the electronic device 50, a sensor that monitors the pin disconnection of the generator battery port 82, a sensor that monitors the charge capacity of the generator battery 154, and / or a sensor that monitors another aspect of the electronic device 50 that can indicate that the electric field generator 54 is to be powered off.

[0063] Reference now Figure 5 , wherein a process flow diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a replacement process 300 according to the present disclosure is shown. The replacement process 300 generally includes the following steps: storing an operating parameter indicating the operation of the electric field generator or the cessation of the operation of the electric field generator (step 304); deactivating the electric field generator so as to stop providing a first electrical signal during the generator power-off event (step 308); determining an operating state based at least in part on the operating parameter (step 312); activating the electric field generator to provide: i) a second electrical signal, the activation being performed in response to the operating state being an accelerated state (step 316); or ii) a third electrical signal, the activation being performed in response to the operating state being the standard state (step 320). Generally, by storing the operating parameter in response to the generator power-off event, the replacement process 300 provides for determining whether one or more electrode arrays 70 have been tampered with, and if one or more electrode arrays 70 have been tampered with, causing the processor 162 to perform a standard power-on procedure 174, but if one or more electrode arrays 70 have not been tampered with, causing the processor 162 to perform an accelerated power-on procedure 170.

[0064] In one embodiment, storing operating parameters indicating operation of the electric field generator or cessation of operation of the electric field generator (step 304) may occur in response to a generator power off event and include: for example, receiving the generator power off event by the processor 162 and storing one or more operating parameters, for example in the memory 166.

[0065] In one embodiment, storing an operating parameter indicative of operation of the electric field generator or cessation of operation of the electric field generator (step 304) includes storing the operating parameter, wherein the operating parameter is data indicative of circuit resistance. The data for the operating parameter may be determined prior to deactivating the electric field generator (step 308). By storing the data indicative of the circuit resistance, the circuit resistance may be compared to a second circuit resistance measured prior to activating the electric field generator to determine whether the electrode array 70 has been tampered with while the generator battery 154 is being replaced.

[0066] In one embodiment, storing an operating parameter indicating the operation of the electric field generator or the cessation of the operation of the electric field generator (step 304) includes: storing the operating parameter, wherein the operating parameter is data indicating one or more electric field characteristics (i.e., TTField characteristics). For example, the operating parameter may indicate the current power of the first electrical signal (e.g., the power of the TTSignal when the operating parameter is stored), the voltage of the first electrical signal, the frequency of the first electrical signal, and the current of the first electrical signal. Each of the data of the operating parameter may be determined before deactivating the electric field generator (step 308). The operating parameter indicating the power, voltage, current, and / or frequency of the first alternating current waveform may be used by the accelerated power-up program 170 to determine a second initial power, a second initial voltage, a second initial current, and / or a second initial frequency of the second alternating current waveform (for the accelerated power-up process), as described in more detail below.

[0067] In one embodiment, the operating parameter is one or more of a first timestamp indicating when the generator battery 154 was removed from the generator battery port 82, a second timestamp indicating when the generator battery no longer has a charge sufficient to operate the electric field generator 54, and / or the activation of a replacement timer (a starting point for measuring the duration of time that the electric field generator 54 is deactivated). The processor 162 may use each of the first timestamp, the second timestamp, and the replacement timer to measure the deactivation duration of the electric field generator 54. By measuring the deactivation duration, the processor 162 may determine whether tampering with one or more electrode arrays 70 may have occurred, resulting in a standard state, or whether tampering with one or more electrode arrays 70 is unlikely to have occurred, potentially resulting in the operating state being an accelerated state. In other words, the standard state is an operating state that indicates a determination that the standard power-up procedure should be performed, while the accelerated state is an operating state that indicates a determination that the accelerated power-up procedure should be performed.

[0068] In one embodiment, storing operating parameters in response to a generator power off event (step 304) includes: receiving the generator power off event, for example by the processor 162, the generator power off event being triggered by one or more of low battery capacity of the generator battery, removal of the generator battery, insertion of a second generator battery, and / or disconnection of the electric field generator from a main power source, etc.

[0069] For example, in one embodiment, the processor 162 may monitor one or more generator battery ports 82 to detect removal of a first generator battery, and upon detecting removal of the first generator battery, the processor 162 may trigger a generator power off event. Similarly, the processor 162 may monitor the power port 88 to detect removal of a power source attached to the power port 88 (such as removal or disconnection of a mains power source or wall wart), and upon detecting removal of the power source attached to the power port 88, trigger the generator power off event. In one embodiment, interaction with the input 176 may trigger the generator power off event.

[0070] In another example, the processor 162 may monitor one or more generator battery ports 82 to detect the battery charge of a first generator battery connected to the generator battery port 82 of the electric field generator 54, and if the first generator battery has a charge capacity below a minimum operating capacity, the processor 162 generates a signal indicating that the first generator battery has a charge capacity below the minimum operating capacity. In one embodiment, the signal may include triggering a generator power-off event. The minimum operating capacity may be set, for example, to about 5% to 15% of the maximum charge of the first generator battery (e.g., the generator battery 154). In one embodiment, the signal may be transmitted to a user, an assistant, or a medical professional. The signal may activate, for example, a visual feedback device (such as an LED, LCD), a tactile feedback device, an audio feedback device (such as a speaker), a notification on a smart phone, an app, a website, an email, and / or a text message (e.g., SMS, MMS, etc.), etc. In one embodiment, the battery charge may be a remaining charge percentage, a voltage of a battery (e.g., the first generator battery), and / or available or remaining ampere-hours, etc.

[0071] In one embodiment, storing the operating parameters (step 304) includes: monitoring one or more electric field characteristics (i.e., TTSignal characteristics or TTField characteristics) and then storing data indicating the operating parameters. Monitoring and storing the one or more electric field characteristics may be done periodically or in response to a specific input (such as in response to the generator power-off event). The operating parameters may be data indicating the one or more electric field characteristics before the generator power-off event. For example, the operating parameters may indicate the power of the first electrical signal (e.g., the power of the TTSignal before receiving the generator power-off event), the voltage of the first electrical signal, the frequency of the first electrical signal, and the current of the first electrical signal. Each of the data of the operating parameters may be determined before deactivating the electric field generator (step 308). The operating parameters indicating the power, voltage, current, and / or frequency of the first AC waveform may be used by the accelerated power-up program 170 to determine a second initial power, a second initial voltage, a second initial current, and / or a second initial frequency of the second AC waveform (for the accelerated power-up process), as described in more detail below. In addition, the monitoring may be extended during the standard power-up process and / or the accelerated power-up process. For example, the circuit resistance may be measured during the accelerated power-up process (or the standard power-up process) so that if the user moves the array after the accelerated power-up process (or the standard power-up process) has begun, the controller 74 stops the accelerated power-up process (or the standard power-up process) and reverts to starting the standard power-up process. In one embodiment, the processor 162 may periodically monitor one or more electric field characteristics, for example, the one or more electric field characteristics may be monitored for a first time, and the one or more electric field characteristics may be monitored a second time after a waiting time. In some embodiments, the processor 162 may continuously monitor the one or more electric field characteristics, for example, the processor 162 may have a set of instructions for reading one or more electric fields, which are repeated until interrupted.

[0072] In one embodiment, deactivating the electric field generator to stop providing the first electrical signal during the generator power-off event (step 308) includes: for example, transmitting a control signal from the processor 162 to the electric field generator 54 to cause the electric field generator 54 to stop providing the first electrical signal to each electrode array 70.

[0073] In one embodiment, determining the operating state based at least in part on the operating parameter (step 312) includes: determining, by the processor 164, the operating state, which may be one of an accelerated state and a standard state. Although in some embodiments, the operating state is only one of the accelerated state and the standard state, in other embodiments, the operating state may include one or more additional states. When potential tampering with the electrode array is detected, the operating state may be determined to be the standard state, and when potential tampering with the electrode array is not detected, the operating state may be determined to be the accelerated state.

[0074] In one embodiment, determining the operating state based at least in part on the operating parameters (step 312) includes determining the operating state after detecting installation of the replacement first generator battery 154a prior to starting the electric field generator 54. Generally, once the first generator battery 154a is replaced with the replacement first generator battery operable to supply power to the electric field generator 54, the processor 162 determines the operating state to determine whether to execute one of the accelerated power-up procedure 170 when the operating state is the accelerated state or the standard power-up procedure 174 when the operating state is the standard state.

[0075] In one embodiment, determining the operating state based at least in part on the operating parameter (step 312) includes periodically or continuously determining the operating state between triggering the generator power-off event and initiating the electric field generator to provide the second electrical signal (step 316). In one embodiment, the operating state may be determined multiple times per second before initiating the electric field generator to provide the second electrical signal (step 316) or the third electrical signal (step 320). For example, the processor 162 in communication with the electrode array port 90 may detect and monitor the circuit resistance between the electrode array 70 (e.g., as the monitored circuit resistance), and if the monitored circuit resistance exceeds a resistance threshold (e.g., is above a predetermined resistance or below a predetermined resistance), the processor 162 may determine that the operating state is the standard state.

[0076] In one embodiment, determining the operating state based at least in part on the operating parameter (step 312) includes: determining, by the processor 164, that the operating state is the accelerated state when the deactivation duration is less than a predetermined deactivation duration threshold, or determining that the operating state is the standard state when the deactivation duration exceeds the predetermined deactivation duration threshold. For example, if the operating parameter includes a power-off event timestamp (such as the time when the processor 162 receives the generator power-off event), the deactivation duration can be determined by comparing the current timestamp with the power-off event timestamp. The predetermined deactivation duration threshold can be, for example, about 2 minutes (or about 120 seconds), or about 5 minutes, or in the range of about 2 minutes to about 5 minutes. Therefore, in this example, determining the operating state based at least in part on the operating parameter (step 312) includes: determining, by the processor 164, that the operating state is the accelerated state when the deactivation duration is less than 2 minutes (or less than 5 minutes), and determining that the operating state is the standard state when the deactivation duration is greater than 2 minutes (or greater than 5 minutes). In some embodiments, the predetermined deactivation duration threshold is set by the user (and / or an assistant) or a medical professional, while in other embodiments, the predetermined deactivation duration threshold is set by the manufacturer.

[0077] In one embodiment, determining the operating state based at least in part on the operating parameter (step 312) includes monitoring the disconnection of at least one electrode array 70 from the electrode array port 90, and determining that the operating state is the standard state upon detecting that any electrode array 70 is disconnected from the electrode array port 90. In some embodiments, the disconnection of any electrode array 70 causes the operating state to be the standard state, while not disconnecting all electrode arrays 70 does not necessarily cause the operating state to be the accelerated state.

[0078] In one embodiment, the operating state is assumed to be the accelerated state until the operating state is changed to the standard state. In other embodiments, the operating state is assumed to be the standard state until the operating state is changed to the accelerated state. In some embodiments, if the operating state defaults to the accelerated state, any change of the operating state to the standard state prevents the operating state from changing back to the accelerated state until the replacement process 300 is completed; however, if the operating state defaults to the standard state, any change of the operating state to the accelerated state can be restored to the standard state. In other words, in some embodiments, any condition that causes the operating state to be set to the standard state causes the processor 162 to execute the standard power-up procedure 174.

[0079] In one embodiment, in response to the operating state being the acceleration state, starting the electric field generator to provide the second electric signal (step 316) includes: providing the second electric signal, the second electric signal having a second alternating current waveform with a frequency in the range of 50 kHz to 1 MHz. The processor 162 can execute the acceleration power-up program 170 stored in the memory 166, so as to start the electric field generator 54 to provide the second electric signal in response to the operating state being the acceleration state.

[0080] In one embodiment, in response to the operating state being the accelerated state, starting the electric field generator to provide the second electric signal (step 316) includes: starting the electric field generator to provide the second electric signal having the second AC waveform, the second AC waveform having a second power greater than a third power of the third electric signal. In other words, the second AC waveform generated by executing the accelerated power-on procedure has the second power greater than the third power of the third AC waveform generated by executing the standard power-on procedure.

[0081] In one embodiment, in response to the operating state being the acceleration state, activating the electric field generator to provide a second electric signal (step 316) includes: activating the electric field generator to provide the second electric signal having the second AC waveform, the second AC waveform having a second initial power.

[0082] In one embodiment, in response to the operating state being the acceleration state, activating the electric field generator to provide the second electrical signal (step 316) includes: activating the electric field generator to provide the second electrical signal having the second AC waveform, the second AC waveform having a second initial power between the operating power and 95% of the operating power, for example, by sending a control signal from the processor 162 to the electric field generator 54. The operating power can be determined, for example, by the operating parameter having the data indicating the power of the first AC waveform (i.e., the power of the TTSignal before the generator power-off event).

[0083] In one embodiment, before the electric field generator is activated to provide the second electrical signal in response to the operating state being the acceleration state (step 316), the charge amount of the first battery may be compared with the charge amount of the second battery, for example, by the processor 162. In one embodiment, if the charge amount of the second battery is within 5% to 15% of the charge amount of the first battery, activating the electric field generator to provide the second electrical signal (step 316) may not be performed. In some embodiments, if the charge amount of the second battery is within 5% to 15% of the charge amount of the first battery, the processor 162 may set the operating state to a warning state.

[0084] In one embodiment, starting the electric field generator to provide a second electric signal in response to the operating state being an acceleration state (step 316) includes: starting the electric field generator to provide the second electric signal based on the operating parameter having the data indicating the voltage or current of the first AC waveform, wherein a second initial voltage of the second AC waveform or a second current of the second AC waveform is selected so that a second power of the second AC waveform is between the power of the first AC waveform and 95% of the power of the first AC waveform.

[0085] In one embodiment, in response to the operating state being the acceleration state, starting the electric field generator to provide the second electric signal (step 316) includes: providing a first ramp time, the first ramp time being less than the second ramp time provided when the electric field generator is started to provide the third electric signal in response to the operating state being the standard state. For example, in response to the operating state being the acceleration state, the second electric signal may have the second AC waveform, the second AC waveform having a second initial voltage or a second initial current set to the first initial voltage or the first initial current, and increasing the second initial voltage and / or the second initial current to the operating voltage and / or the operating current in a shorter period of time than when the electric field generator is started to provide the third electric signal in response to the operating state being the standard state. In some embodiments, the first ramp time is between 10 minutes and 30 minutes.

[0086] In one embodiment, the ramp time is determined based on the location of the electrode array 70 on the patient. For example, the ramp time of the electrode array 70 placed on the patient's head may be shorter than the ramp time of the electrode array 70 placed on the patient's torso. In one embodiment, the ramp time may be calculated based on the first power, the operating power, and the ramp rate. For example, if the electric field applied to the patient's head has a first operating power and the electric field applied to the patient's torso has a second operating power that is less than the first operating power, then for the same ramp rate, the ramp time of the electric field applied to the patient's head is less than the ramp time of the electric field applied to the patient's torso.

[0087] In one embodiment, in response to the operating state being the standard state, starting the electric field generator to provide a third electric signal (step 320) includes: starting the electric field generator in response to the operating state being the standard state, wherein the third electric signal has a third alternating current waveform with a frequency in the range of 50 kHz to 1 MHz. The processor 162 may start the electric field generator 54 to provide the third electric signal in response to the operating state being the standard state. In one embodiment, the processor 162 may retrieve the operating state from the memory 166.

[0088] In one embodiment, in response to the operating state being the standard state, starting the electric field generator to provide a third electric signal (step 320) includes: starting the electric field generator in response to the operating state being the standard state, wherein the third electric signal has a third initial power. In some embodiments, the third initial power is equal to the first initial power. In other embodiments, the third initial power is within 10% of the first initial power.

[0089] Illustrative Embodiments

[0090] The following is a non-limiting list of exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts disclosed herein:

[0091] Exemplary embodiment 1 An electronic device, comprising:

[0092] an electric field generator configured to provide a first electrical signal having a first alternating current waveform having a frequency in a range from 50 kHz to 1 MHz; and

[0093] a controller in communication with the electric field generator to control the output of the electric field generator, the controller having an input terminal, a processor, and a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing an accelerated power-up program, a standard power-up program, and computer-executable instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to perform the following operations:

[0094] receiving a generator power-off event via the input, the generator power-off event being a physical interaction with the input;

[0095] detecting a power failure event of the generator;

[0096] deactivating the electric field generator so as to stop providing the first electric signal;

[0097] storing an operating parameter indicative of operation of the electric field generator or cessation of operation of the electric field generator;

[0098] determining an operating state based at least in part on the operating parameter, the operating state being one of an accelerated state and a standard state; and

[0099] The electric field generator is activated to provide:

[0100] i) a second electrical signal, the activation being performed using the accelerated power-up procedure in response to the operating state being the accelerated state; the second electrical signal having a second alternating current waveform with a frequency ranging from 50 kHz to 1 MHz; or

[0101] ii) a third electrical signal, the startup being performed using the standard power-on procedure in response to the operating state being the standard state, the third electrical signal having a third alternating current waveform with a frequency ranging from 50 kHz to 1 MHz.

[0102] Exemplary embodiment 2 The electronic device according to exemplary embodiment 1, wherein the electric field generator further includes at least one electrode array port, and is further configured to supply power to the at least one electrode array port.

[0103] Exemplary embodiment 3 An electronic device according to any one of exemplary embodiments 1 to 2, wherein the generator power-off event includes a generator battery replacement event, and the generator battery replacement event is triggered by one or more of the removal of a first generator battery and the insertion of a second generator battery.

[0104] Exemplary embodiment 4 An electronic device according to any one of exemplary embodiments 1 to 3, wherein the computer executable instructions also include instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to perform the following operations: detecting a battery charge of a first generator battery connected to the electric field generator, and if the first generator battery has a charge capacity below a minimum operating capacity, generating a signal indicating that the first generator battery has a charge capacity below the minimum operating capacity.

[0105] Exemplary embodiment 5 An electronic device according to exemplary embodiment 4, wherein the processor includes computer-executable instructions, which, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to receive the signal indicating that the first generator battery has the charge capacity below the minimum operating capacity and trigger the generator power-off event.

[0106] Exemplary embodiment 6 is an electronic device according to any one of exemplary embodiments 1 to 5, wherein the computer executable instructions also include instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to store the operating parameter indicating the deactivation duration of the electric field generator, and wherein determining the operating state includes: if the deactivation duration is lower than a predetermined deactivation duration threshold, determining that the operating state is the acceleration state.

[0107] Exemplary embodiment 7 The electronic device according to exemplary embodiment 6, wherein the predetermined deactivation duration threshold is 5 minutes.

[0108] Exemplary embodiment 8 The electronic device according to any one of exemplary embodiments 1 to 7, wherein:

[0109] The accelerated power-up program includes computer executable instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to send a first control signal to the electric field generator to cause the electric field generator to increase the power of the second alternating current waveform to an operating power within a first time period; and

[0110] The standard power-on procedure includes computer executable instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to send a second control signal to the electric field generator to cause the electric field generator to increase the power of the third alternating current waveform to the operating power within a second time period; and

[0111] The first time period is shorter than the second time period.

[0112] Exemplary embodiment 9 is an electronic device according to any one of exemplary embodiments 1 to 8, wherein the standard power-on procedure includes computer-executable instructions, which when executed by the processor cause the processor to send a control signal to the electric field generator so that the electric field generator sets the initial power of the third alternating current waveform to less than 95% of the operating power.

[0113] Exemplary embodiment 10 is an electronic device according to any one of exemplary embodiments 1 to 9, wherein the accelerated power-on program includes computer-executable instructions, which, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to send a control signal to the electric field generator so that the electric field generator sets the power of the second alternating current waveform between the operating power and 95% of the operating power, including the end values.

[0114] Exemplary embodiment 11 An electronic device according to any one of exemplary embodiments 1 to 10, wherein the electric field generator is connected to a first electrode array and a second electrode array, and wherein the computer executable instructions also include instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to monitor the disconnection of at least one of the first electrode array and the second electrode array, wherein when the disconnection of at least one of the first electrode array and the second electrode array is detected, the operating state is set to the standard state.

[0115] Exemplary embodiment 12 An electronic device according to any one of exemplary embodiments 1 to 11, wherein the electric field generator is connected to a first electrode array and a second electrode array, and wherein the computer executable instructions also include instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to perform the following operations: monitor the disconnection of at least one of the first electrode array and the second electrode array, and generate a warning signal indicating the disconnection of at least one of the first electrode array and the second electrode array.

[0116] Exemplary Embodiment 13 According to the electronic device according to any one of Exemplary Embodiments 1 to 13, the electronic device further includes:

[0117] a first electrode array; and

[0118] a second electrode array; and

[0119] wherein the electric field generator is connected to the first electrode array and the second electrode array, and wherein the computer executable instructions further comprise instructions which, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to:

[0120] storing a measurement of the circuit resistance as the operating parameter; and

[0121] The circuit resistance is monitored during the period of time when the electric field generator is deactivated.

[0122] Exemplary embodiment 14 The electronic device according to exemplary embodiment 13, wherein if the monitored circuit resistance differs from the circuit resistance stored as the operating parameter by more than a resistance threshold, the operating state is set to the standard state.

[0123] Exemplary embodiment 15 is an electronic device according to any one of exemplary embodiments 1 to 14, wherein the accelerated power-on program includes computer-executable instructions, which, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to start the electric field generator to provide the second electrical signal having the second alternating current waveform, wherein the second alternating current waveform has the frequency of the first alternating current waveform.

[0124] Exemplary embodiment 16 An electronic device, comprising:

[0125] an electric field generator having a housing and a first circuit within the housing, the first circuit being operable to generate an electrical signal having an alternating current waveform having a frequency in a range from 50 kHz to 1 MHz, the housing having a first generator battery port and a second generator battery port independent of the first generator battery port, the first generator battery port and the second generator battery port being coupled to the first circuit so as to independently supply power to the first circuit; and

[0126] a controller in communication with the electric field generator to control an output of the electric field generator, the controller having a processor coupled to a controller battery port, the controller battery port coupled to the processor having a second circuit to supply power to the processor independent of any power supplied to the first generator battery port and the second generator battery port.

[0127] Exemplary embodiment 17 According to the electronic device described in exemplary embodiment 16, the electronic device further includes:

[0128] a first generator cell coupled to the first generator cell port, the first generator cell having a first charge; and

[0129] A second generator battery is coupled to the second generator battery port, the second generator battery having a second charge amount in a range of 1 / 3 to 1 / 300 of the first charge amount.

[0130] Exemplary embodiment 18 A method, comprising:

[0131] storing operating parameters indicating operation of an electric field generator or cessation of operation of the electric field generator, the electric field generator being configured to provide a first electrical signal having a first alternating current waveform with a frequency in a range from 50 kHz to 1 MHz;

[0132] deactivating the electric field generator to stop providing the first electric signal;

[0133] determining an operating state based at least in part on the operating parameter, the operating state being one of an accelerated state and a standard state;

[0134] The electric field generator is activated to provide:

[0135] i) a second electrical signal, wherein the activation is performed in response to the operating state being an acceleration state, the second electrical signal having a second alternating current waveform with a frequency ranging from 50 kHz to 1 MHz; or

[0136] ii) a third electrical signal, wherein the activation is performed in response to the operating state being the standard state, the third electrical signal having a third alternating current waveform having a frequency in the range from 50 kHz to 1 MHz.

[0137] Exemplary embodiment 19 is a method according to exemplary embodiment 18, wherein starting the electric field generator to provide the second electric signal also includes: starting the electric field generator to provide the second electric signal having the second alternating current waveform, the second alternating current waveform having a second power that is greater than a third power of the third electric signal.

[0138] Exemplary Embodiment 20 According to the method described in any one of Exemplary Embodiments 18 to 19, the method further includes: detecting the installation of the generator battery before determining the operating state.

[0139] Exemplary embodiment 21 According to the method described in any one of exemplary embodiments 18 to 20, the method further includes: before starting the electric field generator to provide the second electrical signal and before starting the electric field generator to provide the third electrical signal, comparing the charge of the first generator battery with the charge of the second generator battery, wherein the second generator battery is a backup battery or a replacement battery for the first generator battery.

[0140] Exemplary embodiment 22 The method according to exemplary embodiment 21, wherein determining the operating state includes: if the charge amount of the second generator battery is within 5% of the charge amount of the first generator battery, then determining that the operating state will include a warning state, and the method also includes: sending a signal indicating the warning state.

[0141] Exemplary embodiment 23 A method according to any one of exemplary embodiments 18 to 23, wherein storing the operating parameters further comprises: storing data indicating at least one of circuit resistance, voltage of the first alternating current waveform, and current of the first alternating current waveform before deactivating the electric field generator.

[0142] Exemplary embodiment 24 The method according to exemplary embodiment 23, wherein starting the electric field generator to provide the second electric signal is further defined as: starting the electric field generator to provide the second electric signal based on the operating parameters, wherein a second initial voltage of the second AC waveform or a second current of the second AC waveform is selected so that a second power of the second AC waveform is between the power of the first AC waveform and 95% of the power of the first AC waveform.

[0143] Exemplary embodiment 25 An electronic device, comprising: an electric field generator, the electric field generator providing a first electric signal having a first alternating current waveform with a frequency between 50 kHz and 1 MHz; and a controller, the controller communicating with the electric field generator, the controller having an input terminal, a processor and a memory, the memory storing an accelerated power-on program, a standard power-on program and computer executable instructions, the computer executable instructions causing the processor to perform the following operations: receiving a generator power-off event through the input terminal; detecting the generator power-off event; deactivating the electric field generator; storing an operating parameter indicating whether the electric field generator is operating; determining an operating state based at least in part on the operating parameter; and in response to the operating state being the accelerated state, starting the electric field generator using the accelerated power-on program to provide a second electric signal; the second electric signal having a second alternating current waveform with a frequency between 50 kHz and 1 MHz.

[0144] As can be clearly seen from the above description, the inventive concept disclosed and claimed herein is well suited to achieve the purposes mentioned herein and obtain the advantages mentioned herein, as well as those inherent in the present invention. Although exemplary embodiments of the inventive concept have been described for the purposes of this disclosure, it should be understood that many changes can be made, which are obvious to those skilled in the art. According to the above teachings, modifications and variations are possible, or can be obtained from the practice of the methods set forth in this disclosure.

[0145] Even though particular combinations of features and steps are recited in the claims and / or disclosed in the specification, these combinations are not intended to limit the disclosure. In fact, many of these features and steps may be combined in ways not specifically recited in the claims and / or disclosed in the specification. Although each dependent claim listed below may be directly dependent on only one other claim, the disclosure includes each dependent claim in combination with all other claims in the claim set.

[0146] No element, act, or instruction used in this application should be construed as critical or essential to the present invention unless explicitly described as such outside of the preferred embodiments.In addition, the phrase "based on" is intended to mean "based at least in part on," unless explicitly stated otherwise.

Claims

1. An electronic device, comprising: an electric field generator configured to provide a first electrical signal having a first alternating current waveform with a frequency in a range from 50 kHz to 1 MHz; and a controller in communication with the electric field generator to control the output of the electric field generator, the controller having an input terminal, a processor, and a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing an accelerated power-up program, a standard power-up program, and computer-executable instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to perform the following operations: receiving a generator power-off event via the input, the generator power-off event being a physical interaction with the input; detecting a power failure event of the generator; deactivating the electric field generator so as to stop providing the first electric signal; storing an operating parameter indicative of operation of the electric field generator or cessation of operation of the electric field generator; determining an operating state based at least in part on the operating parameter, the operating state being one of an accelerated state and a standard state; as well as The electric field generator is activated to provide: i) a second electrical signal, the activation being performed using the accelerated power-up procedure in response to the operating state being the accelerated state; the second electrical signal having a second alternating current waveform with a frequency ranging from 50 kHz to 1 MHz; or ii) a third electrical signal, the startup being performed using the standard power-on procedure in response to the operating state being the standard state, the third electrical signal having a third alternating current waveform with a frequency ranging from 50 kHz to 1 MHz.

2. The electronic device of claim 1, wherein the generator power-off event comprises a generator battery replacement event, the generator battery replacement event being triggered by one or more of removal of a first generator battery and insertion of a second generator battery.

3. The electronic device of any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein the computer executable instructions further comprise instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to store the operating parameter indicative of a deactivation duration of the electric field generator, and wherein determining the operating state comprises: If the deactivation duration is lower than a predetermined deactivation duration threshold, it is determined that the operating state is the acceleration state.

4. The electronic device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The accelerated power-up program includes computer executable instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to send a first control signal to the electric field generator to cause the electric field generator to increase the power of the second alternating current waveform to an operating power within a first time period; and The standard power-on procedure includes computer executable instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to send a second control signal to the electric field generator to cause the electric field generator to increase the power of the third alternating current waveform to the operating power within a second time period; and The first time period is shorter than the second time period.

5. An electronic device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the standard power-on procedure includes computer executable instructions, which, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to send a control signal to the electric field generator so that the electric field generator sets the initial power of the third alternating current waveform to less than 95% of the operating power.

6. An electronic device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the accelerated power-on program includes computer executable instructions, which, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to send a control signal to the electric field generator so that the electric field generator sets the power of the second alternating current waveform between the operating power and 95% of the operating power, including the end values.

7. An electronic device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the electric field generator is connected to a first electrode array and a second electrode array, and wherein the computer executable instructions also include instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to monitor the disconnection of at least one of the first electrode array and the second electrode array, wherein when the disconnection of at least one of the first electrode array and the second electrode array is detected, the operating state is set to the standard state.

8. The electronic device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, further comprising: a first electrode array; and a second electrode array; and wherein the electric field generator is connected to the first electrode array and the second electrode array, and wherein the computer executable instructions further comprise instructions which, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to: storing a measurement of the circuit resistance as the operating parameter; and The circuit resistance is monitored during the period of time when the electric field generator is deactivated.

9. The electronic device of claim 8, wherein if the monitored circuit resistance differs from the circuit resistance stored as the operating parameter by more than a resistance threshold, the operating state is set to the standard state.

10. An electronic device, comprising: an electric field generator having a housing and a first circuit within the housing, the first circuit being operable to generate an electrical signal having an alternating current waveform with a frequency in a range from 50 kHz to 1 MHz, the housing having a first generator battery port and a second generator battery port independent of the first generator battery port, the first generator battery port and the second generator battery port being coupled to the first circuit so as to independently supply power to the first circuit; and a controller in communication with the electric field generator to control an output of the electric field generator, the controller having a processor coupled to a controller battery port, the controller battery port coupled to the processor having a second circuit to supply power to the processor independent of any power supplied to the first generator battery port and the second generator battery port.

11. The electronic device according to claim 10, further comprising: a first generator cell coupled to the first generator cell port, the first generator cell having a first charge; and A second generator battery is coupled to the second generator battery port, the second generator battery having a second charge amount in a range of 1 / 3 to 1 / 300 of the first charge amount.

12. A method comprising: storing operating parameters indicating operation of an electric field generator or cessation of operation of the electric field generator, the electric field generator being configured to provide a first electrical signal having a first alternating current waveform with a frequency in a range from 50 kHz to 1 MHz; deactivating the electric field generator to stop providing the first electric signal; determining an operating state based at least in part on the operating parameter, the operating state being one of an accelerated state and a standard state; The electric field generator is activated to provide: i) a second electrical signal, wherein the activation is performed in response to the operating state being an acceleration state, the second electrical signal having a second alternating current waveform with a frequency ranging from 50 kHz to 1 MHz; or ii) a third electrical signal, wherein the activation is performed in response to the operating state being the standard state, the third electrical signal having a third alternating current waveform having a frequency in the range from 50 kHz to 1 MHz.

13. The method of claim 12, wherein activating the electric field generator to provide the second electric signal further comprises: The electric field generator is activated to provide the second electric signal having the second alternating current waveform, wherein the second alternating current waveform has a second power greater than a third power of the third electric signal.

14. The method according to any one of claims 12 to 13, wherein storing the operating parameters further comprises: Prior to deactivating the electric field generator, data indicative of at least one of circuit resistance, voltage of the first alternating current waveform, and current of the first alternating current waveform is stored.

15. The method of claim 14, wherein starting the electric field generator to provide the second electrical signal is further defined as starting the electric field generator to provide the second electrical signal based on the operating parameters, wherein a second initial voltage of the second AC waveform or a second current of the second AC waveform is selected so that a second power of the second AC waveform is between the power of the first AC waveform and 95% of the power of the first AC waveform.

Images