Stimulation Inca device

Abstract

A stimulation application device according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a stimulation unit configured to apply a stimulation to a target site, and a housing coupled to the stimulation unit, the housing including a first housing arranged on one side of the target site and housing the stimulation unit, and a second housing arranged on the other side of the target site and housing the stimulation unit, the stimulation unit housed in the first housing and the stimulation unit housed in the second housing may be configured to apply a magnetic attractive force to each other.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a stimulation application device, and more specifically, to a stimulation application device that can provide stimulation for cognitive function recovery and can be easily attached to a target site.

Background Art

[0002] Vascular dementia, which is the most severe form of vascular cognitive impairment, a cognitive impairment associated with cerebrovascular disease, occurs when brain tissue is damaged by cerebrovascular disease and dementia develops. Memory impairment is a major characteristic of vascular dementia.

[0003] Dementia is a degenerative disease that acquiredly loses intellectual ability and shows clinical symptoms that cause a gradual decline in cognitive impairment, behavior, and personality. Along with the rapid aging of the population, it is one of the serious social problems, and it has emerged as a serious social problem in the construction of a health and welfare state. It is a typical geriatric disease, and the fact is that the increase in medical expenses for additional caregivers due to this is holding back the national economy.

[0004] So far, as drug treatment methods, drugs such as donepezil and galantamine, which are used for Alzheimer's dementia, have been presented, but their effects are only about half of those seen in Alzheimer's dementia (Battle et al., Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2021). In addition, the vagus nerve stimulation technique has been used in the form of surgical transplantation to the neck for cognitive dysfunction, but it has an aspect that it is invasive and thus difficult to apply easily.

[0005] Therefore, the inventors of the present invention have recognized the need for a non-invasive and detachable treatment technique as a technique for recovering cognitive function damaged in vascular dementia.

[0006] Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2014-0037803 discloses a device, system, and method for treating medical diseases. Specifically, it discloses a device, system, and method for treating medical diseases that can stimulate the skin of the superficial branches of the trigeminal nerve located outside the skull on the face.

[0007] However, the device, system, and method for treating medical diseases disclosed in the prior art are configured to apply stimulation to a body part using a band-shaped electrode assembly. Therefore, there is a limitation in that it is difficult to apply to body parts where it is difficult to wear a band-shaped electrode assembly.

[0008] Korean Patent No. 10-2386264 discloses non-invasive nerve stimulation through a portable device. Specifically, it discloses a non-invasive portable device that can apply electrical stimulation to one or more nerves of a patient to improve the condition.

[0009] However, the non-invasive nerve stimulation disclosed in the prior art also assumes that it is coupled to a body part through a band or the like. Therefore, when attempting to apply stimulation to a minute body part or the like, the prior art cannot present a solution for attaching the device for applying stimulation to the minute body part.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0010]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0011] The present invention is for solving the above problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a stimulation application device that can be easily coupled to a site where stimulation is to be applied.

[0012] Another object of the present invention is to provide a stimulation application device that can be easily removed after being coupled to the site.

[0013] Still another object of the present invention is to provide a stimulation application device that can restore cognitive function in a non-invasive manner.

[0014] Still another object of the present invention is to provide a stimulation application device that is easily attachable to the site.

[0015] Still another object of the present invention is to provide a stimulation application device that can be easily applied because it is non-invasive and detachable when using an electronic drug, and can be continuously used while reducing the risks associated with transplantation surgery and the like.

[0016] However, the technical problems to be achieved by the present invention are not limited to the problems mentioned above, and other problems not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the following description.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0017] According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a stimulation application device including a stimulation application unit configured to apply stimulation to a target site, and a housing coupled to the stimulation application unit, the housing including a first housing disposed on one side of the target site and accommodating the stimulation application unit, and a second housing disposed on the other side of the target site and accommodating the stimulation application unit, wherein the stimulation application unit accommodated in the first housing and the stimulation application unit accommodated in the second housing are configured to apply a magnetic attractive force to each other.

[0018] At this time, the stimulation application unit includes a magnet member that is housed in the housing and includes a stimulating electrode configured to apply the stimulation to the target site, and the magnet member is positioned so as to be biased toward one side facing the target site among the housing portions, and a stimulation application device may be provided.

[0019] Further, the housing includes an application member housing portion that houses the magnet member and is positioned adjacent to the target site, and the application member housing portion includes a housing space that is recessed in a surface facing the target site to house the magnet member, and a stimulation application device may be provided.

[0020] At this time, the housing is continuous with the application member housing portion and includes a wire guiding portion that is formed to extend in a direction opposite to the application member housing portion, and the wire guiding portion has a guiding hollow that is located inside thereof, is formed to penetrate along its extending direction, one end portion in the extending direction communicates with the housing space, and the other end portion in the extending direction communicates with the outside, and a stimulation application device may be provided.

[0021] Further, the stimulation application unit may include a control unit configured to energize the magnet member to apply power and a control signal to the magnet member, and a stimulation application device may be provided.

[0022] At this time, the control unit is located outside the housing, and includes a wire member that extends between the control unit and the magnet member and is configured to be energized with the control unit and the magnet member respectively, and a stimulation application device may be provided.

[0023] Further, the stimulation application unit may include a battery that is housed inside the housing adjacent to the magnet member and is configured to apply power and a control signal to the magnet member, and a stimulation application device may be provided.

[0024] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a stimulation applying device including a stimulation applying unit configured to apply a stimulation to a target site, and a housing coupled to the stimulation applying unit, the housing including a main housing that houses the stimulation applying unit, covers one side of the target site, and is inserted into an opening formed in the target site, a sub-housing that houses the stimulation applying unit and is positioned adjacent to the other side of the target site, and a placement member that extends between the main housing and the sub-housing and is configured to be placed on the other other side of the target site.

[0025] At this time, the main housing may include an insertion protrusion that protrudes toward the target site and is inserted into the opening of the target site, and the stimulation applying unit may be provided on the insertion protrusion and configured to apply the stimulation to a portion adjacent to the opening of the target site.

[0026] Further, the stimulation applying unit may include a magnet member configured to apply an electrical stimulation to the target site including a stimulation electrode, and a light stimulation applying member configured to apply an optical stimulation to the target site.

[0027] At this time, the magnet member may be disposed in one or more of the main housing and the sub-housing, and the light stimulation applying member may be disposed in one or more of the main housing and the sub-housing adjacent to the magnet member.

[0028] Further, the magnet member may be disposed in one or more of the main housing and the sub-housing, and the light stimulation applying member may be disposed in one or more of the main housing and the sub-housing adjacent to the magnet member.

[0029] At this time, the stimulation application unit includes a magnet member configured to apply an electrical stimulation to the target site including a stimulation electrode, and a control unit configured to energize the magnet member to apply power and a control signal to the magnet member. The control unit is disposed outside the housing and configured to energize the magnet member through a wire member, and a stimulation application device can be provided.

[0030] Further, the stimulation application unit may be provided with a stimulation application device including a magnet member housed in the housing and configured to apply an electrical stimulation to the target site including a stimulation electrode, and a battery housed in the housing so as to be adjacent to the magnet member and configured to energize the magnet member to apply power and a control signal to the magnet member.

Advantages of the Invention

[0031] With the above configuration, the stimulation application device according to the embodiment of the present invention can be easily coupled to the site where the stimulation is to be applied.

[0032] Further, with the above configuration, the stimulation application device according to the embodiment of the present invention can be easily removed after being coupled to the site.

[0033] Further, with the above configuration, the stimulation application device according to the embodiment of the present invention can restore the cognitive function in a non-invasive manner.

[0034] Further, with the above configuration, the stimulation application device according to the embodiment of the present invention can be easily worn on the site.

[0035] Further, with the above configuration, the stimulation application device according to the embodiment of the present invention is non-invasive and detachable, so it can be easily applied, has less risk associated with transplantation surgery, etc., and can restore the cognitive function damaged by vascular dementia. Accordingly, the present invention can be utilized as a continuous treatment technique for restoring the cognitive function of patients.

[0036] The effects of the present invention are not limited to the effects described above, and should be understood to include all effects inferable from the configuration of the invention described in the detailed description or claims of the present invention.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0037]

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Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0038] Hereinafter, with reference to the attached drawings, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail so that those having ordinary knowledge in the technical field to which the present invention pertains can easily implement them. The present invention can be embodied in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein. In order to clearly explain the present invention, parts not related to the description are omitted in the drawings, and the same reference numerals are given to the same or similar components throughout the specification.

[0039] The words and terms used in this specification and the claims are not to be construed in a limited sense in the ordinary or dictionary meaning, but should be construed in a meaning and concept that conforms to the technical idea of the present invention in accordance with the principle that the inventor can define terms and concepts in order to best explain his own invention.

[0040] Therefore, the embodiments described in this specification and the configurations illustrated in the drawings correspond to a preferred embodiment of the present invention and do not represent all of the technical ideas of the present invention. Therefore, there can be various equivalents and modifications that replace this at the time of filing of the present invention for the corresponding configuration.

[0041] In the following description, for the purpose of clarifying the features of the present invention, the description of some components may be omitted.

[0042] As used in the following description, the term "energization" means that one or more members are connected to each other so as to be capable of transmitting an electric current or an electrical signal. In one embodiment, the energization can be formed in a wired form by a wire member or the like, or in a wireless form such as Bluetooth (registered trademark), Wi-Fi, RFID, etc.

[0043] In the present invention, "electronic drug" is a compound word of electronics and pharmaceutical, and means an electronic device that regulates signals generated in the brain and nerve cells to treat diseases. In the present invention, "electronic drug" can be a medical device that aims to have a therapeutic effect like a drug by utilizing physical stimuli with minimized side effects for affecting and modifying the biological functions or pathological processes of the body, including intractable diseases.

[0044] In particular, the electronic drug can be provided with the stimulation application devices 10 and 20 according to each embodiment of the present invention described below.

[0045] Since the electronic drug stimulates only the specific part that requires treatment, side effects can be minimized, and the stimulation conditions can be individualized in consideration of the characteristics of the individual, so that customized treatment is possible. In case of emergency, the drug effect can be interrupted immediately. The site to which the stimulation is applied can be a local site of the body, a specific cell, the central or peripheral nervous system, and preferably, the cognitive function can be restored by stimulating the specific region of the brain listed above.

[0046] As used in the following description, the term "target site T" means any site to which the stimulation applied by the stimulation application devices 10 and 20 according to the embodiments of the present invention is transmitted. In one embodiment, the target site T can be defined as a part of the human body or an animal body. In one embodiment, the target site T can be an ear site.

[0047] As used in the following description, the term "stimulation" means any form of signal applied to the target site T to achieve the target effect. In one embodiment, the stimulation can be in an electrical form by passing an electric current. In other embodiments, the stimulation can be in an optical form through light irradiation or in an acoustic form through sound or the like.

[0048] Hereinafter, the stimulation application devices 10 and 20 according to the embodiments of the present invention will be described on the premise that they are worn on a specific body part of the wearer, for example, the ear part. As an alternative, in order to maximize the effects of the stimulation application devices 10 and 20 according to the embodiments of the present invention, the stimulation application devices 10 and 20 according to the embodiments of the present invention can operate in conjunction with other devices.

[0049] For example, the stimulation application devices 10 and 20 according to the embodiments of the present invention can operate in conjunction with brain / biological signal recording devices, such as EEG (Electroencephalography), MEG (Magnetic Encephalography), NIRS (Near-Infrared Spectroscopy), PPG (Photoplethysmography), GSR (Galvanic Skin Response), etc.

[0050] Ultimately, the stimulation application devices 10 and 20 according to the embodiments of the present invention may operate in conjunction with various wearable devices (VR, headphones, earphones, glasses, accessories such as non-invasive transcutaneous stimulation bracelets and anklets, smartwatches, etc.).

[0051] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 4, a stimulation application device 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. The stimulation application device 10 according to the illustrated embodiment can be configured to be removably coupled to the target site T to apply stimulation to the target site T.

[0052] In the illustrated embodiment, the stimulation application device 10 includes a housing 100 and a stimulation application unit 200.

[0053] The housing 100 forms the outer shape of the stimulation application device 10. The housing 100 is the part where the stimulation application device 10 is coupled to the target site T. The housing 100 can be formed to have a size smaller than that of the target site T.

[0054] The housing 100 can be formed of a material that is lightweight yet highly rigid. This is to prevent a situation where the stimulation application device 10 coupled to the target site T is arbitrarily separated due to its self-weight.

[0055] The housing 100 can be formed of a non-conductive material. This is to prevent a situation where the stimulation to be transmitted to the target site T leaks to the housing 100 arbitrarily.

[0056] In one embodiment, the housing 100 can be formed of a synthetic resin material such as insulating plastic.

[0057] A plurality of housings 100 can be provided. Although the plurality of housings 100 are each coupled to the target site T, they can be arranged at different positions. In one embodiment, the plurality of housings 100 can be arranged to face each other with the target site T therebetween.

[0058] In the illustrated embodiment, the housing 100 includes two, namely a first housing 100a and a second housing 100b. The first housing 100a and the second housing 100b are arranged to face each other with the target site T therebetween. At this time, due to the magnetic force applied by the magnet member 210 of the stimulation application unit 200 described later, the first housing 100a and the second housing 100b are each coupled to the target site T.

[0059] Although the first housing 100a and the second housing 100b have a difference in the direction of coupling to the target site T, their structures and functions are the same. Therefore, in the following description of the same technical features, they will be generically described as "housing 100".

[0060] The housing 100 is coupled to the wire member W. The stimulation application unit 200 housed inside the housing 100 can be energized with the outside through the wire member W.

[0061] The housing 100 is coupled to the stimulation application unit 200. The stimulation application unit 200 can be configured to apply stimulation to the target site T while being housed in the housing 100.

[0062] In the illustrated embodiment, the housing 100 includes a wire guide part 110 and an application member housing part 120.

[0063] The wire guide part 110 is the part where the housing 100 is coupled to the wire member W. A space (that is, a guide hollow 111 described later) through which the wire member W penetrates is formed inside the wire guide part 110. The wire guide part 110 is formed to extend along the direction in which the wire member W extends.

[0064] The wire guide part 110 is coupled to the application member housing part 120. The wire member W penetrating through the wire guide part 110 extends to the application member housing part 120 and is coupled to and can be energized with the stimulation application unit 200 housed in the application member housing part 120.

[0065] The wire guide part 110 can be of any shape that supports the wire member W and can guide it to the application member housing part 120. In the illustrated embodiment, the wire guide part 110 has a rectangular cross-section and is formed to extend in one direction.

[0066] At this time, a pair of corners among the corners of the cross-section of the wire guide part 110 can be formed longer than the other pair of corners. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 2, the cross-section of the wire guide part 110 is formed such that the extension length in the left-right direction is longer than the extension length in the up-down direction.

[0067] Therefore, it can be understood that among the respective surfaces of the wire guide part 110, the upper surface or the lower surface in the illustrated embodiment is formed to have a larger area, making it easier to couple to the target site T.

[0068] Inside the wire guide portion 110, a guide hollow 111 is formed to penetrate therethrough.

[0069] The guide hollow 111 is a passage through which the wire member W penetrates. The guide hollow 111 communicates the outside of the wire guide portion 110 with the accommodation space 121.

[0070] The guide hollow 111 is formed to extend in the same direction as the wire guide portion 110, that is, in the one direction. One end portion in the extending direction of the guide hollow 111, that is, the outer end portion, is formed to be open. In other words, the one end portion of the guide hollow 111 is formed to be open at one end portion facing outward among the end portions in the extending direction of the wire guide portion 110. The one end portion of the guide hollow 111 communicates with the outside, and the wire member W is inserted therein.

[0071] The other end portion in the extending direction of the guide hollow 111, that is, the inner end portion, is also formed to be open. The other end portion of the guide hollow 111 is formed to be open at the other end portion among the end portions in the extending direction of the wire guide portion 110 that is coupled to the applying member accommodating portion 120. The other end portion of the guide hollow 111 communicates with the accommodation space 121, and is coupled to and energized with the magnet member 210 accommodated in the accommodation space 121.

[0072] The guide hollow 111 can be of any shape through which the wire member W can penetrate. In the illustrated embodiment, the guide hollow 111 has a quadrangular cross section and is formed as a quadrangular tubular space extending along the extending direction of the wire guide portion 110.

[0073] The applying member accommodating portion 120 accommodates the stimulation applying portion 200, specifically, the magnet member 210. Further, in an embodiment in which the stimulation applying device 10 is provided in a wireless form, the applying member accommodating portion 120 can also accommodate the battery 230.

[0074] The applying member accommodating portion 120 is a portion where the housing 100 contacts the target site T. The applying member accommodating portion 120 is formed to have as large a surface area as possible so that the contact state with the target site T can be stably maintained.

[0075] The application member housing portion 120 is coupled to the wire guiding portion 110. The wire member W inserted into the guiding hollow 111 of the wire guiding portion 110 can extend to the accommodation space 121 formed inside the application member housing portion 120.

[0076] At this time, as described above, the first housing 100a and the second housing 100b can be arranged to face each other with the target site T therebetween. The first housing 100a and the second housing 100b can contact different side surfaces of the target site T. At this time, the application member housing portion 120 and the stimulation application portion 200 accommodated therein can be respectively contacted with the different side surfaces of the target site T.

[0077] Therefore, it can be said that the application member housing portion 120 forms a part where the stimulation application device 10 contacts the target site T.

[0078] The application member housing portion 120 can have an arbitrary shape that accommodates the stimulation application portion 200 and is positioned adjacent to the target site T. In the illustrated embodiment, the application member housing portion 120 has a circular cross section and is disk-shaped with a vertical thickness.

[0079] An accommodation space 121 is formed inside the application member housing portion 120.

[0080] The accommodation space 121 accommodates the stimulation application portion 200. The accommodation space 121 communicates with the guiding hollow 111. The magnet member 210 of the stimulation application portion 200 accommodated in the accommodation space 121 can be coupled to and energized by the control portion 220 through the wire member W.

[0081] The accommodation space 121 is recessed and formed on one surface of the application member housing portion 120 where the first housing 100a and the second housing 100b face each other. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 2, the accommodation space 121 is illustrated as being recessed and formed on the upper side surfaces of the first housing 100a and the second housing 100b.

[0082] However, this is for convenience of understanding, and it can be understood that the accommodation space 121 is formed on the lower surface of the first housing 100a and the upper surface of the second housing 100b, respectively, and is arranged to face each other.

[0083] One side of each side of the accommodation space 121 that is arranged to face each other is open and communicates with the outside. The magnet member 210 or the magnet member 210 and the battery 230 can be accommodated in the accommodation space 121 through the one side.

[0084] The accommodation space 121 can be of any shape that can accommodate the magnet member 210 or the magnet member 210 and the battery 230. In the illustrated embodiment, the accommodation space 121 is formed as a disk-shaped space having a circular cross-section and a vertical height, similar to the application member accommodation portion 120.

[0085] The stimulation application unit 200 is configured to apply a stimulation to the target site T to which the stimulation application device 10 is coupled. The stimulation application unit 200 can be provided in any form that can apply an appropriate stimulation to the target site T. In the illustrated embodiment, the stimulation application unit 200 is configured to apply an electrical stimulation to the target site T.

[0086] The stimulation application unit 200 can include a configuration for applying a stimulation to the target site T and another configuration that is energized with the one configuration to supply power or a control signal.

[0087] In the illustrated embodiment, the stimulation application unit 200 includes a magnet member 210, a control unit 220, and a battery 230.

[0088] The magnet member 210 is provided with the one configuration for applying a stimulation to the target site T. A stimulating electrode is provided inside the magnet member 210, and an electrical stimulation can be applied to the target site T. The stimulating electrode can be configured to be energized with the control unit 220 or the battery 230 so that power and a control signal are transmitted.

[0089] The magnet member 210 is housed in the housing space 121 of the application member housing portion 120. At this time, while one side of the housing space 121 is formed to be open, the magnet member 210 can be partially exposed outside the application member housing portion 120.

[0090] The magnet member 210 is provided in the first housing 100a and the second housing 100b, respectively. The magnet member 210 housed in the first housing 100a and the magnet member 210 housed in the second housing 100b are arranged to face each other with the target site T therebetween.

[0091] At this time, the magnet member 210 housed in the first housing 100a and the magnet member 210 housed in the second housing 100b can be configured to apply a magnetic attractive force to each other. In other words, the magnet members 210 housed in the respective housings 100a, 100b form a magnetic attractive force in the direction of pulling each other.

[0092] Therefore, the magnet member 210 housed in the first housing 100a and the magnet member 210 housed in the second housing 100b, which are arranged with the target site T therebetween, can be maintained in a state of being adjacent to different surfaces of the target site T, respectively.

[0093] Therefore, as shown in FIG. 1, it can be understood that the stimulation application device 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention can be formed in the form of an earphone.

[0094] The magnet member 210 can be provided in any form that forms a magnetic attractive force between each other, houses a stimulation electrode therein, and can transmit the stimulation generated by the electric power and control signal transmitted through the stimulation electrode to the target site T. In one embodiment, the magnet member 210 can be provided in the form of a neodymium magnet.

[0095] The magnet member 210 is coupled to the wire member W and energized. The stimulation electrode provided in the magnet member 210 can operate when electric power and a control signal are transmitted from an external control unit 220.

[0096] The magnet member 210 can be formed to correspond to the shape of the accommodation space 121. As described above, since the accommodation space 121 has a circular cross-section and is disc-shaped with a thickness in the vertical direction, the magnet member 210 can also be formed in a disc shape having a circular cross-section and a thickness in the vertical direction.

[0097] In an embodiment where the magnet member 210 is formed in a disc shape, one surface of the magnet member 210 that is exposed to the outside can be positioned adjacent to the target site T and configured to apply a stimulus to the target site T. Also, in the above embodiment, the one surface of the magnet member 210 can form a magnetic attraction with another magnet member 210 arranged to face each other with the target site T interposed therebetween.

[0098] The magnet member 210 is coupled to and energized by the control unit 220 and the battery 230.

[0099] The control unit 220 transmits power and control signals for the stimulation electrode provided in the magnet member 210 to apply a stimulus to the target site T. The transmitted power and control signals can cause the stimulation electrode to operate and apply a stimulus to the target site T. In one embodiment, as described above, the magnet member 210 can be configured to apply an electrical stimulus.

[0100] The control unit 220 energizes the magnet member 210. In an embodiment where the control unit 220 is provided outside the housing 100, the control unit 220 can be energized with the magnet member 210 through the wire member W. Therefore, in the case of the above embodiment, it can be said that the stimulation application device 10 is provided in the form of a wired earphone.

[0101] The control unit 220 can be provided in any form capable of inputting, calculating, outputting information, and transmitting power. In one embodiment, the control unit 220 is a configuration for inputting, calculating, and outputting information, and can include a microprocessor, a CPU, etc. Also, the control unit 220 can be configured to include a capacitor so that power storage or transmission is possible.

[0102] In the above embodiment, the control unit 220 can include an input unit (not shown) for receiving an input of information related to a control signal. The input unit (not shown) can be configured to receive an input of information in any form for the wearer or user to control the operation of the stimulation application device 10. In one embodiment, the input unit (not shown) can be configured in the form of a button, a dial, or a touch screen, etc.

[0103] The battery 230 transmits the power and the control signal for the stimulation electrode provided in the magnet member 210 to apply stimulation to the target site T. The transmitted power and control signal can activate the stimulation electrode to apply stimulation to the target site T.

[0104] The battery 230 is coupled to the housing 100. The battery 230 can be housed in the accommodation space 121 formed in the member accommodation part 120 together with the magnet member 210. In the above embodiment, the magnet member 210 can be configured such that power and a control signal are directly transmitted from the battery 230. That is, in the above embodiment, the magnet member 210 may not be energized with the external control unit 220 through the wire member W.

[0105] Therefore, in the case of the above embodiment, it can be said that the stimulation application device 10 is provided in the form of a wireless earphone.

[0106] At this time, the battery 230 can be provided in any form capable of inputting, calculating, outputting information, and transmitting power, similar to the control unit 220. In one embodiment, the battery 230 can be configured to include a configuration for inputting, calculating, and outputting information and a configuration for transmitting or storing power, similar to the control unit 220.

[0107] In the above embodiment, the size of the accommodation space 121 can be configured to increase so that the battery 230 can be further accommodated. Or, although the size of the accommodation space 121 is maintained, the sizes of the magnet member 210 and the battery 230 can be respectively miniaturized so that all can be accommodated in the accommodation space 121.

[0108] The stimulation application device 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention described above includes a pair of housings 100a and 100b arranged to face each other with the target site T therebetween. Each of the pair of housings 100a and 100b is provided with a magnet member 210 including a stimulation electrode for applying stimulation. The magnet members 210 accommodated in the respective housings 100a and 100b are configured to form a magnetic attractive force toward each other.

[0109] Accordingly, the stimulation application device 10 can be maintained in a state where the pair of housings 100a and 100b are arranged to face each other with the target site T therebetween without a configuration for separate coupling. In addition, stimulation can be applied to both sides of the target site T where the respective housings 100a and 100b are arranged adjacent to each other.

[0110] As a result, the stimulation application device 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention can achieve the intended effect by applying appropriate stimulation to the target site T without using an invasive method. In addition, the stimulation application device 10 can be easily coupled to or removed from the target site T by magnetic force.

[0111] In one embodiment, the stimulation application device 10 may be provided in a wired form. In the above embodiment, although the magnet member 210 is housed in the housing 100, the control unit 220 may be disposed outside the housing 100. At this time, the magnet member 210 can be coupled to the control unit 220 by the wire member W and energized. In the above embodiment, the stimulation application device 10 can be made smaller.

[0112] In another embodiment, the stimulation application device 10 may be provided in a wireless form. In the above embodiment, the magnet member 210 is housed in the housing 100 and can be coupled to and energized by the battery 230 also housed in the housing 100. In the above embodiment, the wearing of the stimulation application device 10 can be easily carried out.

[0113] Referring to FIGS. 5 to 8, a stimulation application device 20 according to another embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. The stimulation application device 20 according to the illustrated embodiment may be removably coupled to the target site T and configured to apply a stimulation to the target site T.

[0114] When compared with the stimulation application device 10 according to the above-described embodiment, the stimulation application device 20 according to the present embodiment is different in that the housing 300 is formed of a single member and is coupled to the target site T.

[0115] Also, the stimulation application device 20 according to the present embodiment is configured to be able to apply not only an electrical stimulation applied by the above-described stimulation application device 10 to the target site T but also an optical stimulation.

[0116] Referring to FIG. 5, the target site T to which the stimulation application device 20 according to the present embodiment is attached may be an ear site, particularly the left ear site. As an alternative, the stimulation application device 20 according to the present embodiment may be coupled to any site where the placement member 320 can be placed.

[0117] In the above embodiment, the stimulation application device 20 can be configured to apply stimulation to one side and the other side of the target site T, i.e., the outside and the inside of the ear site in the illustrated embodiment. In other words, the stimulation application device 20 can be configured to apply stimulation to the portion where the target site T is exposed on the outside (i.e., the one side) and the portion shielded on the inside (i.e., the other side).

[0118] In the illustrated embodiment, the stimulation application device 20 includes a housing 300 and a stimulation application unit 400.

[0119] The housing 300 forms the outer shape of the stimulation application device 20. The housing 300 is the portion where the stimulation application device 20 is coupled to the target site T. The housing 300 can be formed to have a size smaller than the target site T.

[0120] The housing 300 can include a plurality of parts that are continuous with each other. The plurality of parts can be formed of different materials from each other.

[0121] At this time, a part of the housing 300 can be formed of a material that is lightweight yet has high rigidity. This is to prevent a situation where the stimulation application device 20 coupled to the target site T is arbitrarily separated due to its self-weight.

[0122] Also, other parts of the housing 300 can be formed of a softness material. This is because, as will be described later, it is deformed in shape according to the shape of the target site T and is closely coupled to the target site T.

[0123] The housing 300 can be formed of a non-conductive material. This is to prevent a situation where the stimulation to be transmitted to the target site T leaks to the housing 300 arbitrarily.

[0124] In one embodiment, the one part of the housing 300 can be formed of a synthetic resin material such as insulating plastic. Also, the other part of the housing 300 can be formed of materials such as rubber and silicon.

[0125] The housing 300 is coupled to the lead member W. The stimulation application unit 400 housed inside the housing 300 can be energized to the outside through the lead member W.

[0126] The housing 300 is coupled to the stimulation application unit 400. The stimulation application unit 400 can be configured to apply a stimulation to the target site T while being housed in the housing 300.

[0127] In the illustrated embodiment, the housing 300 includes a main housing 310, a placement member 320, and a sub-housing 330.

[0128] The main housing 310 forms a part of the outer shape of the housing 300. The main housing 310 is coupled to a part of the target site T where the housing 300 is located. In the illustrated embodiment, the main housing 310 is coupled to the target site T by covering the earhole.

[0129] The main housing 310 is exposed outside the target site T. In an embodiment where the stimulation device 20 is provided in the form of a wired earphone, the main housing 310 can be coupled and energized to a control unit 420 provided outside through the lead member W.

[0130] The stimulation application unit 400 is housed inside the main housing 310. A part of the target site T located adjacent to the main housing 310 can transmit the stimulation applied by the stimulation application unit 400.

[0131] The main housing 310 is formed to have the largest volume among the components of the housing 300. At least a part of each component of the stimulation application unit 400 can be housed inside the main housing 310.

[0132] In an embodiment where the stimulation device 20 is provided in the form of a wireless earphone, the main housing 310 can be provided with an indicator for indicating the operating state of the stimulation device 20.

[0133] In the illustrated embodiment, the main housing 310 is formed such that the extension length in the width direction of the target site T is longer than the extension length in the height direction of the target site T. The shape of the main housing 310 can be any shape that is coupled to a part of the target site T and can apply a stimulus to the target site T.

[0134] In the illustrated embodiment, the main housing 310 includes an insertion protrusion 311.

[0135] The insertion protrusion 311 is a portion where the main housing 310 is inserted into an opening formed in the target site T. In an embodiment where the target site T is the ear, the insertion protrusion 311 can be inserted into the ear hole.

[0136] The insertion protrusion 311 is formed on one surface of the main housing 310 facing the target site T, which is the inner surface in the illustrated embodiment. When the stimulation applying device 20 is coupled to the target site T, the insertion protrusion 311 is inserted into the opening and is not arbitrarily exposed to the outside.

[0137] A stimulation applying unit 400 is provided adjacent to the insertion protrusion 311. Specifically, a magnet member 410 and a light stimulation applying member 440 are provided in a portion of the main housing 310 adjacent to the insertion protrusion 311. The magnet member 410 and the light stimulation applying member 440 are configured to apply electrical and optical stimulations to a portion of the target site T located adjacent to the insertion protrusion 311.

[0138] In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 6, the magnet member 410 and the light stimulation applying member 440 are located between the portion where the placement member 320 and the sub-housing 330 are continuous and the insertion protrusion 311. In other words, the magnet member 410 and the light stimulation applying member 440 are located on a portion of the inner surface of the main housing 310.

[0139] The insertion protrusion 311 can be any shape that can be inserted into an opening formed in the target site T. In the illustrated embodiment, the insertion protrusion 311 has a circular cross-section and is provided in the form of an ear tip protruding toward the target site T.

[0140] The insertion protrusion 311 can be formed of a flexible material. This is because after being deformed in shape and inserted into the opening formed in the target site T, it restores to its original shape and is maintained in the state of being inserted into the opening. In one embodiment, the insertion protrusion 311 can be formed of a silicon material.

[0141] The insertion protrusion 311 can be selectively provided. That is, in the illustrated embodiment, the stimulation application device 20 is provided with the insertion protrusion 311, but in other embodiments, the stimulation application device 20 may not be provided with the insertion protrusion 311. In any case, it is sufficient that the stimulation application device 20 is stably coupled to the target site T.

[0142] The placement member 320 forms another part of the outer shape of the housing 300. The placement member 320 is the part where the stimulation application device 20 is placed on the target site T. Although the placement member 320 is continuous with the main housing 310, it is formed in a round shape so as to bulge outward. In other words, the placement member 320 is formed to have a center on one side facing the main housing 310 and to curve outward.

[0143] The placement member 320 is continuous with the main housing 310. The placement member 320 is energized with the main housing 310, and the electric power and control signals applied by the battery 430 or the light source member 450 etc. accommodated in the main housing 310 can be transmitted.

[0144] The placement member 320 is continuous with the sub - housing 330. The placement member 320 is energized with the sub - housing 330, and the transmitted electric power and control signals can be transmitted to the magnet member 410 accommodated in the sub - housing 330.

[0145] The placement member 320 extends between the main housing 310 and the sub - housing 330. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 6, one end portion in the extending direction of the placement member 320 is coupled to and energized with the main housing 310. The other end portion in the extending direction of the placement member 320 is coupled to and energized with the sub - housing 330.

[0146] In the illustrated embodiment, the placement member 320 is formed in a round shape such that its upper side bulges outward. On the other side of the portion where the placement member 320 is formed in a round shape, the lower side in the illustrated embodiment may be open. The placement member 320 can be placed on the target site T through the other side, that is, the lower side.

[0147] The placement member 320 can be formed of a flexible material. This is because it is deformed in shape according to the shape of the target site T and stably placed on the target site T.

[0148] The outer shape of the placement member 320 can be formed of a soft material. Since the placement member 320 is the part that directly contacts the target site T, the foreign body sensation is minimized.

[0149] In one embodiment, the placement member 320 can be formed of a silicon material.

[0150] The sub-housing 330 forms the remaining part of the outer shape of the housing 300. The sub-housing 330 is positioned adjacent to the other part of the target site T. In the embodiment where the target site T is the ear, the sub-housing 330 is positioned inside the ear.

[0151] A part of the stimulation application unit 400 is accommodated in the sub-housing 330. The stimulation applied by the stimulation application unit 400 accommodated in the sub-housing 330 can be transmitted to the other part of the target site T where the sub-housing 330 is positioned adjacent.

[0152] The sub-housing 330 is coupled to and energized with the main housing 310 and the placement member 320. In the illustrated embodiment, the sub-housing 330 is positioned on one side where the main housing 310 is biased, that is, the lower side. The sub-housing 330 is coupled to and energized with the other end portion in the extension direction of the placement member 320.

[0153] A space is formed inside the sub-housing 330. A part of the configuration of the stimulation application unit 400, for example, the magnet member 410, can be accommodated in the space. The magnet member 410 accommodated inside the sub-housing 330 can apply stimulation to the target site T located adjacent thereto.

[0154] In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 6, the magnet member 410 is disposed on the outer surface of the sub-housing 330, that is, on one side surface that is externally exposed in a state where the stimulation application device 20 is not coupled to the target site T.

[0155] The power and control signals for the magnet member 410 accommodated in the sub-housing 330 to operate can be applied by the configuration of the stimulation application unit 400 accommodated in the main housing 310.

[0156] The stimulation application unit 400 is configured to apply stimulation to the target site T to which the stimulation application device 20 is coupled. The stimulation application unit 400 can be provided in any form capable of applying appropriate stimulation to the target site T. In the illustrated embodiment, the stimulation application unit 400 is configured to apply electrical stimulation or optical stimulation to the target site T.

[0157] The stimulation application unit 400 can include a configuration for applying stimulation to the target site T and another configuration that is energized with the one configuration to supply power or a control signal.

[0158] In the illustrated embodiment, the stimulation application unit 400 includes a magnet member 410, a control unit 420, a battery 430, an optical stimulation application member 440, and a light source member 450.

[0159] The magnet member 410 is provided with a configuration for applying stimulation to the target site T. In one embodiment, the magnet member 410 can be configured to apply electrical stimulation to the target site T. A stimulation electrode is provided inside the magnet member 410, and electrical stimulation can be applied to the target site T. The stimulation electrode can be configured to be energized with the control unit 420 or the battery 430 so that power and control signals are transmitted.

[0160] The magnet member 410 is housed inside the housing 300. At this time, a plurality of magnet members 410 are provided, and the plurality of magnet members 410 can be respectively housed in different parts of the housing 300. The plurality of magnet members 410 can be configured to apply electrical stimuli to different parts of the target site T respectively.

[0161] In the illustrated embodiment, two magnet members 410 are provided and can be respectively housed in the main housing 310 and the sub-housing 330. The magnet member 410 housed in the main housing 310 can apply an electrical stimulus to the part of the target site T adjacent to the insertion protrusion 311. The magnet member 410 housed in the sub-housing 330 can apply an electrical stimulus to other parts of the target site T adjacent to the sub-housing 330.

[0162] At this time, as shown in FIG. 6, the plurality of magnet members 410 can be arranged to apply electrical stimuli in other directions. In the illustrated embodiment, the plurality of magnet members 410 are arranged to apply electrical stimuli outside and inside the target site T.

[0163] That is, in the illustrated embodiment, the plurality of magnet members 410 can be arranged to surround the inside and outside of the target site T respectively.

[0164] The magnet member 410 can form a magnetic attraction force with each other, house a stimulating electrode inside, and be provided in any form that can transmit the stimulus generated by the electric power and control signal transmitted through the stimulating electrode to the target site T. In one embodiment, the magnet member 410 can be provided in the form of a neodymium magnet.

[0165] The magnet member 410 is coupled to the wire member W and energized. The stimulating electrode provided in the magnet member 410 can be operated by the transmission of electric power and control signals from an external control unit 420.

[0166] The magnet member 410 can be formed to have a size smaller than that of the main housing 310 or the sub-housing 330. In the above embodiment, the magnet member 410 can be configured to be housed inside the main housing 310 or the sub-housing 330 and not be arbitrarily exposed to the outside.

[0167] The magnet member 410 is coupled to the control unit 420 and the battery 430 and is energized.

[0168] The control unit 420 transmits the electric power and control signals for the stimulating electrode provided in the magnet member 410 to apply stimulation to the target site T. The transmitted electric power and control signals can activate the stimulating electrode to apply stimulation to the target site T. In one embodiment, as described above, the magnet member 410 is configured to apply electrical stimulation.

[0169] Also, the control unit 420 is coupled to the light source member 450 and is energized. The control unit 420 transmits the electric power and control signals for the light source member 450 to operate. The light source member 450 can generate light according to the transmitted electric power and control signals and transmit it to the light stimulation application member 440.

[0170] The control unit 420 is energized with the magnet member 410. In an embodiment where the control unit 420 is provided outside the housing 300, the control unit 420 can be energized with the magnet member 210 through the wire member W. Therefore, in the case of the above embodiment, it can be said that the stimulation application device 20 is provided in the form of a wired earphone.

[0171] The control unit 420 can be provided in any form capable of inputting, calculating, outputting information, and transmitting electric power. In one embodiment, the control unit 420 is configured for information input, calculation, and output, and can include a microprocessor, a CPU, etc. Also, the control unit 420 can be configured to include a capacitor so that it can store or transmit electric power.

[0172] In the above embodiment, the control unit 420 may include an input unit (not shown) for receiving input of information related to the control signal. The input unit (not shown) may be configured to receive input of information for controlling the operation of the stimulation application device 20 by the wearer or user in any form. In one embodiment, the input unit (not shown) may be configured in the form of a button, a dial, or a touch screen.

[0173] The battery 430 transmits the electric power and the control signal for the stimulation electrode provided in the magnet member 410 to apply stimulation to the target site T. The transmitted electric power and control signal can activate the stimulation electrode to apply stimulation to the target site T.

[0174] The battery 430 is housed in the housing 300. In one embodiment, the battery 430 may be housed inside the main housing 310 formed to have a relatively large volume. In the above embodiment, the magnet member 410 may be configured to directly receive the electric power and the control signal from the battery 430. That is, in the above embodiment, the magnet member 410 may not need to be energized with the external control unit 420 through the wire member W. The magnet member 410 is coupled to and energized with the battery 430.

[0175] Also, the battery 430 is coupled to and energized with the light source member 450. The battery 430 transmits the electric power and the control signal for the operation of the light source member 450. The light source member 450 can generate light by the transmitted electric power and control signal and transmit it to the light stimulation application member 440.

[0176] Therefore, in the case of the above embodiment, it can be said that the stimulation application device 20 is provided in the form of wireless earphones.

[0177] At this time, the battery 430 may be provided in any form capable of inputting, calculating, outputting information, and transmitting electric power, similar to the control unit 420. In one embodiment, the battery 430 may be configured to include a configuration for inputting, calculating, and outputting information and a configuration for transmitting or storing electric power, similar to the control unit 420.

[0178] The light stimulation applying member 440 may be provided with other configurations for applying stimulation to the target site T. In one embodiment, the light stimulation applying member 440 may be configured to apply optical stimulation to the target site T. The optical stimulation may be configured to be energized with the control unit 420 or the battery 430 so that power and control signals are transmitted.

[0179] The light stimulation applying member 440 may be coupled to the light source member 450, energized so that light is transmitted, and provided in any form capable of transmitting this to the target site T. In one embodiment, the light stimulation applying member 440 may be provided in the form of an optical fiber.

[0180] The light stimulation applying member 440 is housed in the main housing 310. The light stimulation applying member 440 may be arranged adjacent to the insertion protrusion 311 and configured to apply optical stimulation to the target site T. The light stimulation applying member 440 is positioned adjacent to the magnet member 410 and the insertion protrusion 311 where the magnet member 410 is arranged adjacent.

[0181] In FIG. 6, the light stimulation applying member 440 is illustrated as being provided only in the main housing 310. As an alternative, the light stimulation applying member 440 may also be provided in the sub-housing 330 and configured to apply optical stimulation to the target site T at a plurality of points.

[0182] At this time, the light stimulation applying member 440 provided in the sub-housing 330 may be arranged to apply optical stimulation inside the target site T, similar to the magnet member 410. That is, the additionally provided light stimulation applying member 440 may be arranged adjacent to the magnet member 410 arranged in the sub-housing 330 shown in FIG. 6(b).

[0183] The light stimulation application member 440 is coupled to and energized by the control unit 420 or the battery 430. That is, in an embodiment where the stimulation application device 20 is provided in the form of a wired earphone, the light stimulation application member 440 can be coupled to and energized by the control unit 420 via the wire member W. In an embodiment where the stimulation application device 20 is provided in the form of a wireless earphone, the light stimulation application member 440 can be coupled to and energized by the battery 430 housed in the housing 300, specifically, the main housing 310.

[0184] The light source member 450 transmits light to the light stimulation application member 440. The transmitted light can be provided to the target site T in the form of an optical stimulation through the light stimulation application member 440. The light source member 450 is coupled to the light stimulation application member 440.

[0185] The light source member 450 is coupled to the light stimulation application member 440. The light source member 450 is coupled to and energized by the control unit 420 or the battery 430. The electric power and control signal required for the light source member 450 to generate light can be transmitted to the control unit 420 or the battery 430.

[0186] In the illustrated embodiment, the magnet member 410 and the light stimulation application member 440 are illustrated as being provided in the main housing 310, and the magnet member 410 is illustrated as being provided in the sub-housing 330.

[0187] As an alternative, the magnet member 410 and the light stimulation application member 440 can be respectively provided in any one or more of the main housing 310 and the sub-housing 330. At this time, the magnet member 410 and the light stimulation application member 440 located in the main housing 310 or the sub-housing 330 can be arranged adjacent to each other.

[0188] In an embodiment where the stimulation application device 20 is provided in the form of a wired earphone, the light source member 450 can be provided outside the housing 300. In the said embodiment, the energization between the light source member 450 and other members can be formed by the wire member W.

[0189] In an embodiment where the stimulation application device 20 is provided in the form of wireless earphones, the light source member 450 may be provided inside the housing 300, specifically, inside the main housing 310. In the above embodiment, the energization between the light source member 450 and other members may be formed by direct connection, energization, or a conductive wire member W. At this time, it can be understood that the conductive wire member W is not exposed to the outside.

[0190] The stimulation application device 20 according to another embodiment of the present invention described above includes an insertion protrusion 311 inserted into the opening of the target site T and a placement member 320 placed on the target site T. Therefore, when the stimulation application device 20 is coupled to the target site T at a plurality of positions, the coupling state of the stimulation application device 20 can be stably maintained.

[0191] Also, the stimulation application device 20 may be configured to apply stimulation to the target site T at a plurality of points. In one embodiment, a plurality of magnet members 410 for applying electrical stimulation to the target site T may be provided and respectively provided on the insertion protrusion 311 of the main housing 310 and the sub-housing 330. The plurality of magnet members 410 may be configured to apply electrical stimulation to different portions of the target site T respectively.

[0192] In one embodiment, the stimulation application device 20 may be configured to apply different forms of stimulation. In one embodiment, all of a magnet member 410 configured to apply electrical stimulation to the target site T and a light stimulation application member 440 configured to apply optical stimulation may be provided.

[0193] In the above embodiment, the magnet member 410 and the light stimulation application member 440 can apply different forms of stimulation to the target site T simultaneously or at different times.

[0194] As a result, the stimulation application device 20 according to the embodiment of the present invention can achieve the intended effect by applying appropriate stimulation to the target site T without relying on an invasive method. Also, the stimulation application device 20 can be easily coupled to or removed from the target site T by magnetic force.

[0195] In one embodiment, the stimulation application device 20 may be provided in a wired form. In the above embodiment, although the magnet member 410 and the light stimulation application member 440 are housed in the housing 300, the control unit 420 and the light source member 450 may be disposed outside the housing 300. At this time, the magnet member 410 and the light stimulation application member 440 can be coupled to the control unit 420 or the light source member 450 by the wire member W and energized. In the above embodiment, the stimulation application device 20 can be made smaller.

[0196] In another embodiment, the stimulation application device 20 may be provided in a wireless form. In the above embodiment, the magnet member 410 and the light stimulation application member 440 are housed in the housing 300, and can be coupled to and energized by the battery 430 or the light source member 450 also housed in the housing 300. In the above embodiment, the wearing of the stimulation application device 20 can be easily carried out.

[0197] Hereinafter, application modes of the stimulation application devices 10 and 20 according to the embodiments of the present invention described above will be described in detail by way of examples. However, the following examples are specific illustrations of the present invention, and the content of the present invention is not limited by the following examples.

[0198] [Example 1]

[0199] Establishment of an animal model for inducing vascular dementia

[0200] To confirm the effect of the cognitive impairment recovery by the electronic drug of the present invention, an animal model induced with vascular dementia was produced.

[0201] To induce vascular dementia, as shown in Figure 8, after 8-week-old C57BL / 6 mice were anesthetized with isoflurane inhalation, the anterior neck was incised to expose the common carotid arteries bilaterally, and then temporarily ligated with vascular clamps for 25 minutes to reduce cerebral blood flow (transient bilateral common carotid artery occlusion, hereinafter referred to as "tBCCAO"). Subsequently, the surgical site was sutured (Soares et al., Behavioural Brain Research, 2013).

[0202] Experimental animals were obtained from the Korea Bio Bank, and all animals were housed in the Kyung Hee University Laboratory Animal Facility where a 12-hour light / dark cycle, constant temperature, and dehumidification were maintained, and water and food were freely available. The conduct of the study was based on the guidelines of the Kyung Hee University Animal Experiment Ethics Committee. All animal experimental procedures complied with the protocol of KHSASP-22-302 approved by the Animal Experiment Ethics Committee.

[0203] [Example 2]

[0204] Confirmation of heart rate reduction by transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation

[0205] Based on the fact that heart rate and related indices (such as HRV) have been presented as biomarkers for evaluating the effectiveness of bioregulation by vagus nerve stimulation (Saku et al., Physiological Reports, 2014; Gureal et al., Brain Stimulation, 2020), in order to confirm the activation of the parasympathetic nervous system and the presence or absence of bioregulation by the application of effective electrical stimulation, an electrocardiogram was taken during stimulation to track the heart rate per minute.

[0206] As a result, as shown in Figure 8, it was confirmed that when the vagus nerve was stimulated, the heart rate decreased due to electrical stimulation.

[0207] [Example 3]

[0208] Evaluation of memory impairment in vascular dementia induced by temporary common carotid artery ligation

[0209] Two types of experiments were conducted as follows to evaluate the memory impairment induced by vascular dementia caused by common carotid artery ligation.

[0210] <3-1> Novel object recognition test

[0211] To evaluate the cognitive ability and memory impairment against cognitive impairment, a Novel object recognition test, which is a behavioral experiment to evaluate the short-term memory for new things, was conducted.

[0212] The novel object recognition test was conducted in a cube arena made of white acrylic with dimensions of 40 cm × 40 cm × 40 cm. As objects, a blue cube object and a red pyramid object made of plastic with dimensions of 5 cm × 5 cm × 5 cm were used. The texture and volume of all objects were similar, and after confirming that there was no biased preference by the experimental animals, the experiment was proceeded. The novel object recognition test consisted of a habituation phase, a familiarization phase, and a test phase. The activities of the experimental animals in the arena were recorded by video. First, in the habituation phase, on the day before the test phase, the animals were placed in an empty arena for about 10 minutes to adapt to the arena space, and to evaluate whether there was any impairment in the free motor function of the experimental animals. On the next day, in the familiarization phase, after placing two identical objects diagonally inside the arena, the experimental animals were allowed to freely explore for 10 minutes. One hour later, in the test phase, after placing the object explored in the familiarization phase and a new object inside the arena, the exploration activity time of the experimental animals for each object was measured. The exploration activity was defined as when the nose of the experimental animal was directed towards the object and the middle of the body of the experimental animal was about 2 cm away from the object.

[0213] As shown in FIGS. 10A and 10B, the experimental results confirmed that the mice induced with vascular dementia by common carotid artery ligation showed a significant decrease in the time and frequency of showing interest in new objects compared to normal mice.

[0214] <3-2>Y-maze

[0215] As an experiment for measuring short-term memory and a method for evaluating the ability to perform sequential actions, a Y-maze experiment, which is a behavioral experiment for evaluating working memory for space, was conducted.

[0216] The Y-maze device, which is the measurement equipment, is composed of a Y-shaped maze made of white acrylic plates [branches: 8 cm wide, 30 cm long, 14 cm high], and the angles at which the three branches bend are arranged at 120°. After determining each branch as A, B, and C, the experimental animal was carefully placed on one branch and allowed to move freely in the Y-maze for 8 minutes. Then, each branch entered by the experimental animal was recorded through a camera installed on the ceiling. The number of times and the order of entering each branch were measured to evaluate the spontaneous alteration rate (%). Alteration was recognized as the number of changes (actual alternation, that is, the order of ABC, BCA, CAB) when sequentially entering the other three branches. Cases where they did not enter continuously were not recognized as scores. The alternation behavior was defined as entering in such a way that it did not overlap all three branches, and the spontaneous alteration was calculated by the following mathematical formula. Therefore, the % alteration rate was calculated by the following Mathematical Formula 1.

[0217] [Mathematical Formula 1]

[0218] % alteration rate = [total number of alterations] / [total number of entries into the branches - 2] * 100

[0219] As shown in FIGS. 10C and 10D of the experimental results, in the Y-maze experiment results, on the 3rd and 7th days after the common carotid artery ligation surgery, no impairment of motor function was induced, and it was confirmed that the performance ability significantly decreased due to memory impairment.

[0220] That is, it was confirmed that on the 3rd and 7th days after the common carotid artery ligation surgery, the performance ability significantly decreased due to memory impairment.

[0221] [Example 4]

[0222] Cognitive function recovery by transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) in vascular dementia animals showing memory impairment

[0223] To confirm whether repetitive and long-term transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation can restore cognitive function, behavioral evaluation was performed after applying stimulation in a state of respiratory anesthesia.

[0224] Specifically, vascular dementia was induced by transient bilateral common carotid artery occlusion (tBCCAO), and then stimulation was applied with the stimulation devices 10 and 20 to confirm the presence or absence of cognitive function recovery. The experimental implementation plan for this is as shown in FIGS. 11a and 11d. The behavioral experiments for cognitive function were the individual recognition test and the Y-maze test described above in Example 3. The control group was the group that only underwent anesthesia without stimulation (Anesthesia only).

[0225] As a result, on the 3rd day after the surgery, it was confirmed that the performance ability of the individual recognition test (FIG. 11b) and the Y-maze (FIG. 11c) increased significantly in the transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation group (taVNS) compared to the group that only underwent anesthesia without stimulation. On the 7th day after the surgery, it was confirmed that there was also a significant increase compared to the stimulation control group (non-taVNS) and the cognitive function was restored (FIGS. 11e, f).

[0226] [Example 5]

[0227] Activation of cerebrospinal fluid circulation by transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation

[0228] To explore the mechanism of the improvement of cognitive function in vascular dementia by transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation, the effect on cerebrospinal fluid circulation was confirmed.

[0229] As shown in Fig. 12A, after anesthetizing a living individual, the skull was incised with a scalpel to a size for implanting a transparent glass coverslip (Matsunami Glass, Osaka, Japan) measuring 2 mm × 2 mm. Then, the coverslip was fixed onto the cerebral cortex through a biological bond (Vetbond, 3M) and dental cement. After securing the imaging window, a cerebrospinal fluid fluorescent tracer (FITC-dextran; Invitrogen) was injected through the cisterna magna to observe the circulation of cerebrospinal fluid. (Iliff et al., Science Translational Medicine, 2012)

[0230] As a result, it was confirmed that the intensity and area of fluorescence of the cerebrospinal fluid fluorescent tracer due to cerebrospinal fluid circulation increased after stimulation (Fig. 12C) compared to before percutaneous vagus nerve stimulation (Fig. 12B). Thus, it was confirmed that percutaneous vagus nerve stimulation activates cerebrospinal fluid circulation and improves cognitive function in vascular dementia.

Explanation of Signs

[0231] 10, 20 Stimulation application device 100 Housing 100a First housing 100b Second housing 110 Conductor guide part 111 Guide hollow 120 Application member housing part 121 Accommodation space 200 Stimulation application part 210 Magnet member 220 Control part 230 Battery 300 Housing 310 Main housing 311 Insertion protrusion 320 Placing member 330 Sub-housing 400 Stimulation application part 410 Magnet member 420 Control part 430 Battery 440 Light Stimulation Application Member 450 Light Source Member W Conductor Member T Target Site

Claims

1. A stimulation application unit configured to apply a stimulation to a target site, and a housing coupled to the stimulation application unit, wherein the housing includes a first housing disposed on one side of the target site and accommodating the stimulation application unit, and a second housing disposed on the other side of the target site, disposed to face the first housing with the target site therebetween, and accommodating the stimulation application unit, wherein the stimulation application unit includes a plurality of magnet members each accommodated in the first housing and the second housing and configured to apply an electrical stimulation to the target site, the magnet members including stimulating electrodes, the magnet members each accommodated in the first housing and the second housing are disposed to face each other with the target site therebetween and are configured to apply a magnetic attractive force to each other, wherein the plurality of magnet members are each electrically connectable to an external control unit or battery, configured to receive power and a control signal respectively, and apply the electrical stimulation to the target site respectively, a stimulation application device.

2. The stimulation application unit includes a magnet member accommodated in the housing and configured to apply the stimulation to the target site, the magnet member including a stimulating electrode, wherein the magnet member is positioned to be biased toward one side of the housing facing the target site, the stimulation application device according to claim 1.

3. The housing includes an application member accommodating portion that accommodates the magnet member and is positioned adjacent to the target site, wherein the application member accommodating portion includes an accommodation space recessed in a surface facing the target site and accommodating the magnet member, the stimulation application device according to claim 2.

4. The housing includes a wire guiding portion that is continuous with the application member accommodating portion and extends in a direction opposite to that of the application member accommodating portion, wherein the wire guiding portion includes a guiding hollow located inside thereof, formed to penetrate along its extension direction, one end portion in the extension direction communicating with the accommodation space, and the other end portion in the extension direction communicating with the outside, the stimulation application device according to claim 3.

5. The stimulation application unit includes a control unit configured to energize the magnet member and apply power and a control signal to the magnet member, the stimulation application device according to claim 2.

6. The control unit is located outside the housing, The stimulation application device according to claim 5, comprising a wire member that extends between the control unit and the magnet member and is configured to energize the control unit and the magnet member, respectively.

7. The stimulation application unit, The stimulation application device according to claim 2, comprising a battery that is housed inside the housing so as to be adjacent to the magnet member and is configured to apply power to the magnet member.

8. A stimulation application unit configured to apply stimulation to a target site, and A housing coupled to the stimulation application unit, The housing, A main housing that houses the stimulation application unit, covers one side of the target site, and is inserted into an opening formed in the target site, A sub-housing that houses the stimulation application unit, faces the main housing with the target site interposed therebetween, and is positioned adjacent to the other side of the target site, and A placement member that extends between the main housing and the sub-housing and is configured to cover the other side of the target site, The stimulation application unit, A plurality of magnet members that are respectively housed in the main housing and the sub-housing and are configured to apply electrical stimulation to different parts of the target site, including stimulating electrodes, One of the plurality of magnet members is configured to apply the electrical stimulation to one side of the target site, and the other one is configured to apply the electrical stimulation to the other side of the target site, Stimulation application device.

9. The main housing, An insertion protrusion that protrudes toward the target site and is inserted into the opening of the target site, The stimulation application unit, The stimulation application device according to claim 8, which is disposed on the insertion protrusion and is configured to apply the stimulation to a portion adjacent to the opening of the target site.

10. The stimulation application unit, A magnet member that includes a stimulating electrode and is configured to apply electrical stimulation to the target site, and The stimulation application device according to claim 8, comprising a light stimulation application member configured to apply optical stimulation to the target site.

11. The magnet member, Is disposed in one or more of the main housing and the sub-housing, The light stimulation application member, The stimulation application device according to claim 10, wherein one or more of the main housing and the sub housing are arranged adjacent to the magnet member.

12. The stimulation application unit A magnet member configured to apply an electrical stimulation to the target site including a stimulation electrode, and A control unit configured to energize the magnet member and apply a power and a control signal to the magnet member, The control unit is arranged outside the housing and configured to be energized with the magnet member by a wire member. The stimulation application device according to claim 9.

13. The stimulation application unit A magnet member housed in the housing and configured to apply an electrical stimulation to the target site including a stimulation electrode, and A battery housed in the housing adjacent to the magnet member and configured to energize the magnet member and apply power to the magnet member. The stimulation application device according to claim 9.

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