Connector for removable array

Abstract

An apparatus and method for applying an electric field through a target region in a patient's body is described. Generally, the apparatus includes at least one transducer array and a connector electrically connected to the at least one transducer array. The connector has at least one indicating electrical connector configured to provide feedback regarding the status of the connector.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] Cross-Reference to Related Applications / Incorporation-by-Reference Statement This application is a provisional patent application claiming benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 085,733, filed September 30, 2020. This application also claims benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 216,749, filed June 30, 2021, the entire contents of each of the above-referenced provisional patent applications being expressly incorporated herein by reference. [Background technology]

[0002] TT Fields therapy is a proven method for treating tumors. For example, using the Optune® system for delivering tumor treatment fields (i.e., TT Fields), TT Fields are delivered to a patient via four transducer arrays placed on the patient's skin adjacent to the tumor. The transducer arrays are arranged in two pairs, each connected to an electric field generator via a multi-wire cable. The electric field generator (a) transmits an alternating current through one pair of arrays during a first time period, and (b) transmits an alternating current through the other pair of arrays during a second time period, repeating steps (a) and (b) over the course of the treatment time period. Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0003] A need exists for devices and methods for applying an electric field through a target region in a patient's body. Disclosed herein is a device for applying an electric field through a target region in a patient's body, the device comprising: at least one transducer array having a plurality of electrode elements configured for placement on the patient's body, the electrode elements configured to provide a TT-Field; and a connector electrically connected to the at least one transducer array, the connector having at least one associated monitoring circuit configured to provide feedback regarding the status of the connector.

[0004] Disclosed herein is a method for monitoring a device for applying an electric field through a target region in a patient's body, the method including the steps of electrically connecting a connector to at least one transducer array, the at least one transducer array having a plurality of electrode elements configured for placement on the patient's body, the electrode elements configured to provide a TT field; passing a current through at least one indicating pin incorporated into a first portion of the connector and an associated indicating socket connector incorporated into a second portion of the connector; monitoring data from the passing current; determining a status of the connector based on the monitored data; and providing a predetermined action based on the status of the connector.

[0005] 10. A system comprising: a substrate supporting a plurality of transducer arrays configured for placement on a patient's body, the electrode elements configured to provide a TT field, at least one electrode element associated with a temperature sensor, each transducer array electrically connected to a first side of a connector, each transducer array comprising distal circuitry electrically coupled to each of the plurality of electrode elements of the transducer array and operable to receive a temperature signal from each of the associated temperature sensors, and operable to output a data signal and to receive a TT field signal, the distal circuitry being either supported by the substrate, incorporated into the first side of the connector, or both, or positioned in circuit between the transducer array and the connector, the connector further comprising a plurality of pin or socket connectors in electrical communication with the transducer array; and a hub electrically coupled to each of the plurality of transducer arrays; and an electric field generator electrically coupled to the hub and operable to receive one or more data signals and output one or more TT field signals.

[0006] Disclosed herein is a device for applying an electric field through a target region in a patient's body, the device comprising: at least one transducer array having a plurality of electrode elements configured for placement on the patient's body and at least one temperature sensor, the electrode elements configured to provide a TT field; a distal circuit electrically coupled to the at least one transducer array and operable to receive a temperature signal from the at least one temperature sensor; and a connector electrically connected to the distal circuit, the distal circuit positioned in circuit between the transducer array and the connector.

[0007] Disclosed herein is a system comprising: a plurality of transducer arrays each having a substrate supporting a plurality of electrode elements configured for placement on a patient's body, the electrode elements configured to provide a TT field, at least one electrode element associated with a temperature sensor, each transducer array electrically connected to a first side of a connector, each transducer array electrically coupled to each of the plurality of electrode elements of the transducer array and operable to receive a temperature signal from each of the associated temperature sensors, and operable to output a data signal and to receive a TT field signal, the distal circuitry being either supported by the substrate, incorporated into the first side of the connector, or both, or positioned in circuitry between the transducer array and the connector; a hub electrically coupled to each of the plurality of transducer arrays; and an electric field generator electrically coupled to the hub and operable to receive one or more data signals and output one or more TT field signals.

[0008] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate one or more implementations described herein and, together with the description, explain these implementations. The drawings are not intended to be drawn to scale, and certain features and certain views of the figures may be exaggerated, drawn to scale, or shown diagrammatically for clarity and conciseness. Not all components may be labeled in every figure. Like numbers in the figures may depict and refer to the same or similar elements or functions. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] 1 is a block diagram of an exemplary system for measuring the temperature of a transducer array applying a TT field to a patient's body according to the present disclosure. [Figure 2] 2 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary hub for use in the system shown in FIG. 1 according to the present disclosure. [Figure 3]FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary distal circuit for use in the system shown in FIG. 1 in accordance with the present disclosure. [Figure 4A] 2 is a diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a connector for use in the system shown in FIG. 1 in accordance with the present disclosure. The exemplary connector may be positioned between one or more transducer arrays and one or more distal circuits. [Figure 4B] 2 is a diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a connector for use in the system shown in FIG. 1 in accordance with the present disclosure. The exemplary connector may be positioned between one or more transducer arrays and one or more distal circuits. [Figure 4C] 2 is a diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a connector for use in the system shown in FIG. 1 in accordance with the present disclosure. The exemplary connector may be positioned between one or more transducer arrays and one or more distal circuits. [Figure 4D] 2 is a diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a connector for use in the system shown in FIG. 1 in accordance with the present disclosure. The exemplary connector may be positioned between one or more transducer arrays and one or more distal circuits. [Figure 4E] 2 is a diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a connector for use in the system shown in FIG. 1 in accordance with the present disclosure. The exemplary connector may be positioned between one or more transducer arrays and one or more distal circuits. [Figure 4F] 2 is a diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a connector for use in the system shown in FIG. 1 in accordance with the present disclosure. The exemplary connector may be positioned between one or more transducer arrays and one or more distal circuits. [Figure 5A] 2 is a diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a connector for use in the system shown in FIG. 1 in accordance with the present disclosure. The exemplary connector may be positioned between one or more distal circuits and one or more hubs. [Figure 5B]2 is a diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a connector for use in the system shown in FIG. 1 in accordance with the present disclosure. The exemplary connector may be positioned between one or more distal circuits and one or more hubs. [Figure 5C] 2 is a diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a connector for use in the system shown in FIG. 1 in accordance with the present disclosure. The exemplary connector may be positioned between one or more distal circuits and one or more hubs. [Figure 5D] 2 is a diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a connector for use in the system shown in FIG. 1 in accordance with the present disclosure. The exemplary connector may be positioned between one or more distal circuits and one or more hubs. [Figure 5E] 2 is a diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a connector for use in the system shown in FIG. 1 in accordance with the present disclosure. The exemplary connector may be positioned between one or more distal circuits and one or more hubs. [Figure 5F] 2 is a diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a connector for use in the system shown in FIG. 1 in accordance with the present disclosure. The exemplary connector may be positioned between one or more distal circuits and one or more hubs. [Figure 5G] 2 is a diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a connector for use in the system shown in FIG. 1 in accordance with the present disclosure. The exemplary connector may be positioned between one or more distal circuits and one or more hubs. [Figure 6] 1 is a diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a system constructed in accordance with the present disclosure and having multiple connectors; [Figure 7] 7 is a diagram of an exemplary embodiment of one of the connectors of FIG. 6 constructed in accordance with the present disclosure. [Figure 8] 8 is a top-down perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of the connector of FIGS. 6 and 7 and a transducer array constructed in accordance with the present disclosure. FIG. [Figure 9] 9 is a bottom-up perspective view of the connector and transducer array of FIG. 8 constructed in accordance with the present disclosure. [Figure 10]1 is a diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a hub constructed in accordance with the present disclosure; [Figure 11A] 7A-7C are diagrams of exemplary embodiments of the system of FIG. 6 having various configurations of multiple transducer arrays linked together and distal circuits constructed in accordance with the present disclosure. [Figure 11B] 7A-7C are diagrams of exemplary embodiments of the system of FIG. 6 having various configurations of multiple transducer arrays linked together and distal circuits constructed in accordance with the present disclosure. [Figure 11C] 7A-7C are diagrams of exemplary embodiments of the system of FIG. 6 having various configurations of multiple transducer arrays linked together and distal circuits constructed in accordance with the present disclosure. [Figure 12A] 1 is a diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a system having a pre-sequencing sequence kit constructed in accordance with the present disclosure. [Figure 12B] 1 is a diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a system having a pre-sequencing sequence kit constructed in accordance with the present disclosure. [Figure 12C] 1 is a diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a system having a pre-sequencing sequence kit constructed in accordance with the present disclosure. [Figure 12D] 1 is a diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a system having a pre-sequencing sequence kit constructed in accordance with the present disclosure. [Figure 13] 1 is a diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a system having a helical cable and constructed in accordance with the present disclosure; DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] TTFields are generally delivered to a patient via four transducer arrays, conventionally placed on the patient's skin in two orthogonal pairs at locations selected to best target the tumor. Each transducer array is configured as a set of coupled electrode elements (e.g., approximately 2 cm in diameter) interconnected via flexible wires. Typically, each electrode element includes a ceramic disk sandwiched between a layer of conductive medical gel and adhesive tape. When the array is placed on the patient, the medical gel adheres to the contours of the patient's skin, ensuring good electrical contact of the device with the body. The adhesive tape holds the entire array in place on the patient as the patient goes about their daily activities.

[0011] The amplitude of the alternating current delivered through the transducer array is controlled so that the skin temperature (as measured at the skin beneath the transducer array) does not exceed a safety threshold of 41 degrees Celsius. Temperature measurements at the patient's skin are obtained using thermistors placed beneath some of the disks of the transducer array. In existing Optune® systems, each array comprises eight thermistors, one thermistor positioned beneath each disk in the array.

[0012] The thermistors in each of the four arrays are connected via long wires to an electronic device called a "cable box," where the temperature from all 32 thermistors (i.e., four arrays x eight thermistors per array) is measured and analog-to-digital converted to a digital value for each thermistor. These measurements are transmitted from the cable box to the electric field generator via two additional wires that facilitate two-way digital serial communication between the cable box and the electric field generator. A controller in the electric field generator uses the temperature measurements to control the current delivered through each pair of arrays to maintain a temperature below 41 degrees Celsius at the patient's skin. The current itself is delivered to each array via additional wires that run from the electric field generator through the cable box to the array (i.e., one wire for each array).

[0013] In the existing Optune® system, there are four 10-wire cables (each extending between a respective array and the cable box) and one 8-wire spiral cord extending between the field generator and the cable box. Each of the 10-wire cables has eight wires for carrying signals from the eight thermistors, one wire for a common ground for all eight thermistors, and one wire for providing the TT-field signal to the array. The 8-wire spiral cord has one wire for power to the cable box (Vcc), one wire for ground to the cable box, two wires for data communication (to send temperature readings to the field generator), and four wires for the TT-field signal (i.e., one for each of the four arrays).

[0014] Attaching the temperature sensor and transducer array to the patient can be cumbersome due to the number of wires. As such, a connector may be used to provide a detachable transducer array. Such a connector may also allow for reuse of the wires within the device. Generally, the connector may be formed from a waterproof material. However, patient movement may inadvertently loosen and / or detach the connector. As such, there is a need for detection and / or indication of a condition at the connector in order to provide safe and / or effective therapy for the patient.

[0015] Therefore, a need exists for a device for applying an electric field through a target region in a patient's body while minimizing cumbersome wiring associated with the device. The device includes at least one transducer array having a plurality of electrode elements configured for placement on the patient's body and at least one temperature sensor. The electrode elements are configured to provide a TT field. A distal circuit is electrically coupled to the at least one transducer array and operable to receive a temperature signal from the at least one temperature sensor. In some embodiments, a connector is electrically connected to the distal circuit, the distal circuit being positioned in circuit between the transducer array and the connector. Additionally, the device may include at least one indicating electrical connector configured to provide feedback regarding the status of the connector.

[0016] Before describing at least one embodiment of the inventive concept in detail using illustrative language and results, it is to be understood that the inventive concept is not limited in its application to the details of construction and arrangement of components set forth in the following description. The inventive concept is capable of other embodiments or of being practiced or carried out in various ways. As such, the words used herein are intended to provide the widest possible scope and meaning, and the embodiments are meant to be illustrative, not all-inclusive. It is also to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be construed as limiting.

[0017] Unless otherwise defined herein, scientific and technical terms used in connection with the inventive concepts disclosed herein shall have the meanings commonly understood by those of ordinary skill in the art. Further, unless otherwise required by context, singular terms shall include pluralities and plural terms shall include the singular.

[0018] All of the compositions, assemblies, systems, kits, and / or methods disclosed herein can be made and executed without undue experimentation in light of the present disclosure. While the compositions, assemblies, systems, kits, and methods of the inventive concepts have been described in terms of specific embodiments, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that variations may be made in the compositions and / or methods, and in the steps or sequence of steps of the methods described herein, without departing from the concept, spirit, and scope of the inventive concepts. All such similar substitutes and modifications apparent to those skilled in the art are deemed to be within the spirit, scope, and concept of the inventive concepts as defined by the appended claims.

[0019] Unless expressly stated, it is in no way intended that any method or aspect described herein be construed as requiring that its steps be performed in a particular order. Thus, unless a method claim expressly states in the claim or description that the steps are limited to a particular order, no order is intended to be inferred in any respect.

[0020] Headings are provided for convenience only and are not to be construed as limiting the invention in any way. Embodiments illustrated under any heading or in any portion of this disclosure may be combined with embodiments shown under the same or any other heading or in other portions of this disclosure. Any combination of the elements described herein in all possible variations is covered by the invention unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context.

[0021] As utilized in accordance with the present disclosure, the following terms, unless otherwise indicated, shall be understood to have the following meanings:

[0022] The use of the term "a" or "an," when used in conjunction with the term "comprising" in the claims and / or specification, means "one," but is also consistent with the meaning of "one or more," "at least one," and "one or more." By themselves, the terms "a" and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to a "compound" can refer to one or more compounds, two or more compounds, or a greater number of compounds. The term "plurality" refers to "two or more."

[0023] Use of the term "at least one" is understood to include one and any quantity greater than one. Use of ordinal terminology (i.e., "first," "second," "third," "fourth," etc.) is for purposes of distinguishing between two or more items only and is not intended to imply, for example, any order or sequence, importance of one item relative to another, or any additional ordering.

[0024] The use of the word "or" in the claims is intended to include "and / or" unless expressly indicated to refer only to alternatives or where the alternatives are not mutually exclusive. For example, an "A or B" condition can be satisfied by any of the following: A being true (or present) and B being false (or absent); A being false (or absent) and B being true (or present); and both A and B being true (or present).

[0025] As used herein, "one embodiment," "embodiment," "some embodiments," "an example," "for example," or "an example" means that a particular element, feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. For example, the appearances of the phrase "in some embodiments" or "an example" in various places in the specification do not necessarily all refer to the same embodiment.

[0026] As used in this specification and claims, the words "comprising" (and all forms thereof, such as "comprising"), "having" (and all forms thereof, such as "having"), "including" (and all forms thereof, such as "including"), or "comprising" (and all forms thereof, such as "comprising") are inclusive or open-ended and do not exclude additional, unproposed elements or method steps.

[0027] The term "patient" as used herein encompasses any mammal, including human and veterinary subjects. For purposes of treatment, "mammal" refers to any animal classified as a mammal, including (but not limited to) humans, domestic animals, non-human primates, and any other animal with mammary tissue. In some embodiments, the term "patient" may apply to a simulation manikin for use in teaching.

[0028] The treatments of the present disclosure may be used as part of a combination, simultaneous, or adjunctive therapy. As used herein, such terms are understood to be interchangeable, meaning that a patient in need of treatment may be treated or given other medications for a disease / ailment / infection in conjunction with the treatment of the present disclosure. This simultaneous therapy can be sequential treatment, where the patient is treated first with one treatment protocol / pharmaceutical composition and then with another treatment protocol / pharmaceutical composition, or two treatment protocols / pharmaceutical compositions are provided simultaneously.

[0029] Circuitry, as used herein, may be analog and / or digital components, one or more appropriately programmed processing units (e.g., microprocessors) and associated hardware and software, or hard-wired logic circuitry. Also, a "component" may perform one or more functions. The term "component" may include hardware, such as a processing unit (e.g., a microprocessor), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), and / or a combination of hardware and software. The term "processor" as used herein refers to a single processing unit or to multiple processing units acting independently or together to collectively perform a task.

[0030] The term "TTFields" as used herein means tumor treating fields.

[0031] 1-3, there is shown a block diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a system 10 having one or more distal circuits 40 positioned proximate one or more transducer arrays 50 for obtaining one or more temperature readings from one or more temperature sensors 54 (see FIG. 3). Each of the transducer arrays 50 includes one or more electrode elements 52 (see FIG. 3). The one or more temperature sensors 54 are positioned to detect temperature at the electrode elements 52. In some embodiments, the temperature sensors 54 may be thermistors, thermocouples, RTDs, integrated circuit temperature sensors such as the Analog Devices AD590 and Texas Instruments LM135, and / or combinations thereof.

[0032] Alternative structures for the transducer array may be used, including, for example, transducer arrays using disc-shaped ceramic elements, transducer arrays using non-disc-shaped ceramic elements, and transducer arrays using non-ceramic dielectric materials positioned across multiple flat conductors. Examples of transducer arrays using non-ceramic dielectric materials positioned across multiple flat conductors include pads on a printed circuit board or a polymer film positioned across a flat piece of metal. Transducer arrays using electrode elements that are not capacitively coupled may also be used. In this situation, each element of the transducer array is implemented using an area of ​​conductive material configured for placement against the patient's body, with a non-insulating dielectric layer positioned between the conductive element and the body. Examples of conductive materials include conductive membranes, conductive fabrics, and conductive foams. Other alternative structures for implementing the transducer array may also be used, so long as they (a) are capable of delivering TT Fields to the person's body and (b) utilize the improved connector designs described herein, positioned at the locations specified herein. Optionally, a layer of hydrogel may be positioned between the transducer array and the person's body in any of the embodiments described herein.

[0033] If the transducer array may be too large or may be shaped inappropriately to fit conveniently into a desired location on the body (e.g., an array positioned on the side of the head where the ear partially obstructs the desired location of the array), the array can be cut to a more convenient size and / or shape. If cutting is desired to be through the array's printed circuit board, exposed wires can be sealed to prevent direct contact with the skin. Sealing exposed wiring can be achieved, for example, by surrounding the printed circuit board with a tape known as bubble adhesive tape. Bubble adhesive tape includes a liquid component A containing multiple bubbles and a liquid component B containing multiple bubbles, where components A and B are components of a reactive two-part epoxy. Preferably, the two types of bubbles are uniformly and closely distributed in the tape so that cutting through the tape (and through the printed circuit board wiring) results in an open cut between adjacent bubbles that subsequently react to mix components A and B to form a solid film over the exposed wiring. An ultra-fast curing two-part epoxy system with the appropriate viscosity can be used to mix, react, and flow sufficiently to seal the cut edges of the printed circuit board.

[0034] Each distal circuit 40 interfaces with one or more temperature sensors 54 incorporated into a respective transducer array to obtain a temperature reading from each of the one or more temperature sensors 54. As such, the distal circuit 40 can convert the temperature reading (e.g., from analog to digital), forward the temperature reading, and / or transmit the temperature reading to the hub 30 (see FIG. 1 ). The hub 30 can then forward the temperature reading and / or transmit the temperature reading to the electric field generator 20 (e.g., via a serial communications link). In some embodiments, the electric field generator 20 can determine an adjustment to the current to the transducer array 50 based on the temperature reading.

[0035] In some embodiments, short conductors (e.g., 10 short conductors) may extend distally in wiring 45 beyond the distal circuitry 40 to the transducer array 50. The short conductors may include, for example, one conductor for each of the one or more temperature sensors 54, one conductor for a common ground for the one or more temperature sensors, and one conductor for the TT field (i.e., the AC current for the electrode elements). In some embodiments, the distal circuitry 40 may be implemented using a single-chip microcontroller or programmable system-on-chip (PSoC) with a built-in analog front end and multiplexer. A suitable part number for this purpose is CY8C4124LQI-443 manufactured by Cypress Semiconductor Corp., having principal place of business in San Jose, California. As one skilled in the art will appreciate, some embodiments may include one or more microcontrollers with built-in and / or discrete analog front ends and / or multiplexers. For example, the analog front end and multiplexer can obtain temperature readings from one or more temperature sensors 54. These temperature readings may then be digitized and / or transmitted (e.g., via a serial data link) to the hub 30. In some embodiments, each distal circuit 40 may also include one or more pass-through conductors 51 (see FIG. 3 ). The one or more pass-through conductors 51 may be configured to route one or more TT field signals generated in the electric field generator 20 to the transducer array 50.

[0036] 1 and 3, each distal circuit 40 may also be connected to the hub 30 via one or more cables 35. Conductors 51 in each cable 35 may extend between the distal circuit 40 and the hub 30. For example, in FIG. 3, four conductors 51 extend between each distal circuit 40 and the hub 30, including one conductor 51 for power (Vcc), one conductor 51 for ground (GND), one conductor for serial data communication (DATA), and one for the TT field signal.

[0037] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of circuitry for an exemplary hub 30 for use in the system 10 shown in FIG. 1. Generally, the hub 30 receives one or more temperature readings for each of the distal circuits 40 and transmits the one or more temperature readings to the electric field generator 20. Any of a wide variety of architectures may be used to receive and transmit the one or more temperature readings. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the controller 32 sends a signal to the digital multiplexer 33 instructing the digital multiplexer 33 to select one of the distal circuits 40 (i.e., the first distal circuit) so that the hub 30 can receive digital data from the distal circuit 40. The controller 32 receives one or more temperature readings from a selected input of the first distal circuit 40 and transmits the one or more temperature readings to the electric field generator 20 via the transceiver 34. The controller 32 can then update the control signal to the digital multiplexer 33 so that the digital multiplexer 33 selects the other distal circuit 40 (i.e., the second distal circuit 40). As such, the controller 32 receives one or more temperature readings from the input of the second distal circuit 40 and transmits the one or more temperature readings to the electric field generator 20. A corresponding sequence may be implemented to obtain appropriate temperature readings (e.g., eight temperature readings) from each of the distal circuits 40. In some embodiments, the entire sequence of obtaining each of the one or more temperature readings from each of the distal circuits 40, or a portion of the sequence, may be repeated periodically (e.g., every 1 second, every 10 seconds, or every 30 seconds) to update the one or more temperature readings provided to the electric field generator 20.

[0038] In some embodiments, controller 32, digital multiplexer 33, and / or transceiver 34 may be integrated together on a single chip. In some embodiments, controller 32 and digital multiplexer 33 may be integrated together on a single chip and a separate transceiver 34 is used. For example, controller 32 and digital multiplexer 33 may be implemented using a Cypress CY8C4244LQI-443 manufactured by Cypress Semiconductor Corp., having principal places of business in San Jose, California, and transceiver 34 may be implemented using a Linear Technology LTC2856CMS8-2#PBF manufactured by Linear Technology Corp., having principal places of business in Milpitas, California.

[0039] The hub 30 can communicate with the electric field generators 20 using any conventional communication technology (e.g., RS485). In some embodiments, the hub 30 can include one or more pass-through conductors 31 configured to pass one or more TT field signals directly from the electric field generators 20 to each of the transducer arrays 50. In some embodiments, the hub 30 can communicate with the electric field generators 20 via an eight-conductor helical cable 25. For example, the hub 30 can communicate with the electric field generators 20 via an eight-conductor helical cable 25, with four wires providing the TT field signals received by each transducer array 50, one wire providing ground (GND), one wire providing voltage (Vcc) to the distal circuitry 40, and two wires providing communication (RS485A and RS485B). It should be noted that the use of an eight-conductor helical cable 25 is configured to be backward compatible with previous TT field delivery systems within the art as would be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art.

[0040] Communication wires may be configured to carry data communication between the hub 30 and the electric field generators 20 (see FIG. 1) (i.e., for temperature data). In some embodiments, a single wire may be configured to carry communication in each direction. In some embodiments, the number of wires between the hub 30 and the electric field generators 20 may be reduced by replacing multiple data communication wires with a single data wire that carries bidirectional communication (using a conventional single-wire communication protocol).

[0041] 3 is a schematic diagram of an example circuit for interfacing the hub 30 with one or more transducer arrays 50. Each transducer array 50 may include one or more electrode elements 52 and one or more temperature sensors 54 positioned to sense the temperature of the one or more electrode elements 52. In some embodiments, the one or more temperature sensors 54 may be thermistors. For example, the one or more temperature sensors 54 may include, but are not limited to, thermistors, thermocouples, RTDs, integrated circuit temperature sensors such as the Analog Devices AD590 and Texas Instruments LM135, and / or combinations thereof. It is contemplated that any temperature sensor 54 known in the art may be used if configured to provide precise and / or accurate temperature readings in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0042] The multiplexer 81 may have an output 92 and one or more selectable inputs 94. Each of the one or more selectable inputs 94 may be connected to a respective one of the temperature sensors 54. At least one terminal of each of the temperature sensors 54 may be a common ground. In some embodiments, the output 92 of the multiplexer 81 may be provided to an input 96 of an amplifier 82 (e.g., an amplifier having a large input impedance, such as an operational amplifier configured as a voltage follower). An output 98 of the amplifier 82 may be provided to an input 100 of an analog-to-digital converter 83. An output 102 of the analog-to-digital converter is provided to an input 104 of the controller 85.

[0043] In some embodiments, controller 85 may be configured to coordinate the operation of one or more of the components within dotted line 80. Controller 85 may be configured to send one or more instructions to multiplexer 81 to select one of temperature sensors 54 and obtain a temperature reading from that temperature sensor 54.

[0044] In some embodiments, a temperature reading may be obtained by routing a known current through a temperature sensor 54 (e.g., a thermistor) and measuring the voltage that appears across the temperature sensor 54. For example, a programmable current source 88 may be configured to generate a known current (e.g., 150 μA). The multiplexer 81 may be bidirectional so that the known current may be routed to a temperature sensor 54 selected by the multiplexer 81.

[0045] In some embodiments, temperature readings from one or more temperature sensors 54 may be obtained using the following method: The controller 85 sends one or more instructions to the multiplexer 81 to select a first temperature sensor 54 and configures the current source 88 to generate a known current. The known current from the current source 88 is configured to flow through the multiplexer 81 to the first temperature sensor 54, resulting in a voltage appearing across that temperature sensor 54 and at the output 92 of the multiplexer 81. The amplifier 82 provides this voltage to the input 100 of the analog-to-digital converter 83. The controller 85 instructs the analog-to-digital converter 83 to digitize the voltage. The controller 85 obtains this reading from the analog-to-digital converter 83 and temporarily stores the digitized reading (corresponding to the first temperature sensor 54) in a buffer. This procedure may be repeated successively for each of the temperature sensors 54 until a digitized reading from each requested temperature sensor 54 is in the buffer.

[0046] In some embodiments, a conventional voltage divider approach may be used to interface with one or more temperature sensors 54. In some embodiments, additional readings may be taken and used for self-calibration to increase the accuracy and / or precision of the temperature readings taken from one or more temperature sensors 54. For example, in FIG. 3, at least one input 94 of multiplexer 81 GND is connected to ground, and at least one input 94 of the multiplexer 81 R is connected to a precision resistor 89. In some embodiments, the precision resistor 89 is a 10 kOhm, 0.1% tolerance resistor. Readings from the precision resistor 89 may be taken using the same procedures described above for taking readings from one or more temperature sensors 54. The grounded input 94 of the multiplexer 81 GND You can also take a reading from the grounded input 94 GND The control circuit 85 may be similar to the control circuit 100 except that the current source 88 is deactivated when is selected. GND The digitized readings from may be temporarily stored in a buffer (e.g., a total of 10 readings are stored in the buffer) and / or in any storage device configured to store data. These additional readings may ultimately be used to calibrate the readings obtained from one or more temperature sensors 54. In some embodiments, such calibration may be performed via controller 85. In some embodiments, calibration may occur prior to transmission of the digital data corresponding to the temperature readings. In some embodiments, calibration is performed using precision resistor 89 (and optionally grounded input 94) GND ) may be implemented in a downstream processing device (e.g., controller 32 in hub 30) such that digital data corresponding to the temperature readings obtained from one or more temperature sensors 54 may be transmitted to the downstream processing device in addition to any uncalibrated temperature readings obtained from the one or more temperature sensors 54.

[0047] In some embodiments, calibration using precision resistor 89 may compare the actual voltage measured across precision resistor 89 to an expected voltage based on Ohm's Law, the known value of precision resistor 89, and the expected value of the current generated by current source 88. The deviation between the actual measured voltage and the expected voltage may be used to determine subsequent measurements from one or more temperature sensors 54 (e.g., used as a multiplier).

[0048] In some embodiments, the controller 85 in the distal circuit 40 may be configured to communicate with the hub 30 via the UART 86 and transmit temperature readings obtained from the one or more temperature sensors 54 to the hub 30. In some embodiments, the controller 85 may be programmed to operate autonomously and may be configured to automatically collect temperature readings from each of the one or more temperature sensors 54, store the results in a buffer as described above, and then transmit the contents of the buffer (i.e., the readings of each of the temperature sensors 54, and optionally, additional readings as described herein) to the hub 30.

[0049] In some embodiments, the controller 85 can be programmed to operate as a slave controller to a master controller located in the hub 30. For example, the controller 85 can start in a dormant state, where it simply monitors for incoming commands from the master controller via the UART 86. Examples of commands that may arrive from the master controller can include, but are not limited to, a "collect samples" command and / or a "send data" command. When the controller 85 recognizes that a "collect samples" command has arrived, it can be configured to initiate the methods described herein to obtain one or more temperature readings from one or more temperature sensors 54 and store the results in a buffer and / or any storage device configured to store data. In another example, the controller 85 recognizes a "send data" command and executes a method to transmit previously collected temperature readings from the buffer and / or storage device to the hub 30 via the UART 86.

[0050] In some embodiments, the temperature measurements may be synchronized. For example, a master controller in the hub 30 may send a "collect samples" command to one or more controllers 85 simultaneously or in quick succession so that temperature readings obtained from each of the transducer arrays 50 may be obtained simultaneously or near simultaneously. In some embodiments, temperature readings may be collected by the hub 30 in one or more batches for each controller 85.

[0051] Most systems using TT Fields to treat tumors periodically switch the direction of the field being applied to the tumor (e.g., every second). To minimize noise in the temperature measurements, a small time interval may be introduced during which the field is not applied in either direction, and temperature measurements may be taken during that time interval. In some embodiments, a master controller (e.g., controller 32) located in hub 30 may synchronize the timing of "collect samples" commands to all controllers 85 so that each of the distal circuits 40 can acquire a temperature reading during the time interval. Simultaneous temperature readings from each transducer array 50 can minimize the duration of the time interval. For example, if system 10 requires 100 μs to acquire a single measurement, sequentially performing 32 measurements (i.e., four distal circuits × eight temperature sensors 54 in each distal circuit 40) may require 3.2 ms. In contrast, if each of the distal circuits 40 operates in parallel, the distal circuits 40 can complete their job in 800 μs, so 32 samples can be acquired in 800 μs. It should be noted that the "send data" command may not be sensitive to noise as it can be executed while the field remains, and is not time-critical in itself.

[0052] In some embodiments, some or all of the following components may be implemented by a single integrated circuit: multiplexer 81, amplifier 82, analog-to-digital converter 83, controller 85, UART 86, and current source 88. An example of a single integrated circuit that contains all of these functional blocks is the CY8C4124LQI-443T Programmable System-on-Chip (PSoC) manufactured by Cypress Semiconductor Corp., having its principal place of business in San Jose, California.

[0053] In some embodiments, the wires providing power and ground to the distal circuit 40 can be eliminated by using coils to divert some of the energy from the TT-field signal (delivered via the pass-through conductors), storing that energy in a capacitor adjacent to the distal circuit 40, and using the stored energy to power the distal circuit 40. In some embodiments, a one-wire communication protocol can transmit temperature data over the TT-field signal wire. In such a configuration, the data communication signal and power (Vcc) for the distal circuit 40 can be eliminated from the cable running to the transducer array 50. If all of these wire-reduction techniques are implemented, only two wires may be required between the hub 30 and each transducer array 50 (i.e., one for the TT-field signal and one for ground). This can reduce the overall number of wires from four transducer arrays 50 to the electric field generator 20 (e.g., down to five wires total, with one for a common ground and four total for the TT-field signal).

[0054] The process of monitoring the temperature at the electrodes allows for operation of TT Fields therapy while remaining below temperature safety thresholds, but results in cumbersome equipment and wiring. The use of connectors provides the convenience of being able to disconnect the transducer array. However, the electric field generator should be powered down before disconnecting the connector, so accidental disconnection of the connector is avoided.

[0055] 4A-4F, one or more connectors 42 may be included between the hub 30 and one or more of the transducer arrays 50. The connectors 42 may be configured such that a patient and / or caregiver may be able to attach the transducer array 50 to the patient's skin without being hindered by the presence of cables. In some embodiments, the one or more connectors 42 may be waterproof to prevent moisture (e.g., sweat, shower, etc.) from interfering with the electrical circuitry.

[0056] In some embodiments, one or more connectors 42 may be positioned between the transducer array 50 and the hub 30. In some embodiments, a connector 42 may be positioned between the transducer array 50 and the distal circuit 40, as shown by connector 42a in Figures 4A-4F.

[0057] Generally, one or more connectors 42 may be electrically connected to at least one transducer array 50. The one or more connectors 42 may comprise multiple electrical connectors 200 in electrical communication with the one or more transducer arrays 50. The one or more connectors 42 may also comprise at least one indicating electrical connector 202 that is electrically isolated from the one or more transducer arrays 50 to provide a warning that the connectors are disconnected and the electric field generator is powered down. The at least one indicating electrical connector 202 may be configured to provide feedback regarding the status of the connector 42. In some embodiments, the at least one indicating electrical connector 202 comprises two indicating electrical connectors, with the connector 42 having a conductive line 214 electrically connecting the two indicating electrical connectors 202. The at least one indicating electrical connector 202 may be gender-specific, such as male or female. By way of example, the indicating electrical connector 202 is hereinafter described as an indicating pin 202, although other configurations are possible, such as, for example, a pinching clip that can optionally be intentionally activated by the patient to release the connector (and simultaneously send a command to the electric field generator to power down). In some embodiments, the indicating pin 202 has a first length that is less than the second length of one of the plurality of electrical connectors 200. For clarity and brevity, the description set forth herein refers to the electrical connector 200 and the indicating electrical connector 202 as “pins” or “sockets,” but those skilled in the art will understand that the electrical connector 200 and the indicating electrical connector 202 do not necessarily have “pins” or “sockets” but can be any device configured to have electrical communication with one or more transducer arrays 50 as described herein. For example, a USB-style connector may be adapted by exhibiting one or more conductive traces in the connector that are shorter than others and may be adapted to provide an indication of an imperfect connection. Preferably, the mechanism allows for quick disconnection if desired (intentional), preferably before complete disconnection, and also allows for detection of (accidental) disconnection or disconnection.In some embodiments, the connector comprises a quick release mechanism that is activated by a sensor that detects the patient pressing a button on the device to disconnect the connector.

[0058] 4A-4C, in some embodiments, one or more transducer arrays 50 may be sterilized (e.g., via radiation and / or gas) prior to use. When the distal circuit 40 is positioned between the connector 42a and the hub 30, the portion of the system 10 that includes the distal circuit 40 may not require sterilization. This allows for sterilization of the transducer array 50 (e.g., with radiation and / or gas) without risk of damage to the distal circuit 40.

[0059] In some embodiments, multiple signals 110 may traverse connector 42. For example, in Figure 4B, ten signals 110 may traverse connector 42: one signal 110a for AC current to one or more electrode elements 52, one signal 110b for each of temperature sensors 54 (e.g., eight subtotal), and one signal 110c for a common ground that may be used for all of the temperature sensors 54.

[0060] In some embodiments, a substrate 59 may support one or more of the electrode elements 52 (see FIG. 4C ). The one or more electrode elements 52 may be positioned on and / or against the patient's body (e.g., head). The substrate 59 may be configured to hold and / or secure the one or more electrode elements 52 against the patient's body. One or more temperature sensors 54 may be positioned adjacent to and / or below each electrode element 52 so as to be configured to sense the temperature of the electrode element 52.

[0061] Cable 35 has a first end 120 and a second end 122. Cable 35 may include (i) a conductor 51 capable of conducting an electrical current (e.g., an alternating current) between first end 120 of cable 35 and second end 122 of cable 35, and (ii) a data path 124 configured to convey digital data corresponding to a temperature reading occurring at distal circuit 40 from second end 122 of cable 35 to first end 120 of cable 35 (i.e., toward hub 30).

[0062] In some embodiments, module 60 may be mounted to second end 122 of cable 35 (e.g., directly or through intervening components). Distal circuitry 40 may be mounted to module 60. In some embodiments, power (voltage, VCC) and ground (GND) for distal circuitry 40 may be provided via cable 35.

[0063] A first portion 140 of the connector 42a may be provided on the module 60, and a second portion 142 of the connector 42a may be provided on the substrate 59. The first portion 140 of the connector 42a mates with the second portion 142 of the connector 42a such that electrical signals are configured to pass from the transducer array 50 through the connector 42a to the distal circuit 40 and then to the hub 30. To that end, when the first portion 140 of the connector 42a mates with the second portion 142 of the connector 42a, signals from the one or more temperature sensors 54 are configured to pass through wiring in the substrate 59, through the connector 42a, and to the distal circuit 40. The distal circuit 40 includes a multiplexer 81, an analog-to-digital converter 83, and a controller 85. A common ground signal 110c for the one or more temperature sensors 54 may also be provided through the connector 42a in addition to the alternating current signal 110a for the electrode element 52. The alternating current signal 110 a can continue through appropriate wiring in the substrate 59 so that one or more electrode elements 52 can be electrically connected to corresponding conductors of the cable 35 .

[0064] 4C and 4D, in some embodiments, signals 110a-110c can pass through connector 42a via conductive elements within connector 42a. The conductive elements can include a plurality of pins 200 such that first portion 140 of connector 42a matingly connects to second portion 142. In some embodiments, one or more pins 200 can be provided on first portion 140 of connector 42a to matingly connect with conductive elements in second portion 142 of connector 42a. In some embodiments, one or more pins 200 can be provided on second portion 142 of connector 42a to matingly connect with conductive elements in first portion 140 of connector 42a.

[0065] In some embodiments, connector 42a may include one or more indicator pins 202 in addition to pins 200. One or more indicator pins 202 may be incorporated into connector 42a in first portion 140 and / or second portion 142 of connector 42a. In some embodiments, one or more indicator pins 202 may be incorporated into the same one of first portion 140 or second portion 142 of connector 42a as pins 200. In some embodiments, one or more indicator pins 202 may be incorporated into a different one of first portion 140 or second portion 142 of connector 42a relative to pins 200. For example, pins 200 may be permanently mounted to first portion 140, and indicator pins 202 may be permanently mounted to second portion 142. FIG. 4F shows another exemplary embodiment of connector 42a in which electrical connector 200 (e.g., pin) and indicator electrical connector 202 (e.g., indicator pin) may be non-removably attached to second portion 142, shown as connector 42g.

[0066] The connector 42a may include a first end 204 and a second end 206 (FIGS. 4D and 4E). In some embodiments, one or more indicator pins 202 may be positioned at the first end 204 and / or the second end 206 of the connector 42a. In some embodiments, at least one indicator pin 202 may be positioned at the first end 204 of the connector 42a and at least one indicator pin 202 may be positioned at the second end 206 of the connector 42a. In some embodiments, one indicator pin 202 may be positioned at the first end 204 of the connector 42a and at least one indicator pin 202 may be positioned at the second end 206 of the connector 42a. For clarity and simplicity, the illustrated embodiments show a single indicator pin 202 (see FIG. 4D) or two indicator pins 202a and 202b (see FIG. 4E), although any number of indicator pins 202 may be used and is contemplated within the present disclosure.

[0067] Because the signal 110b provided from the temperature sensor 54 may be affected by changes associated with salt water (e.g., sweat from the patient within the connector 42a may result in higher temperature readings from the measurement data), in some embodiments, the first and second portions 140, 142 of the connector 42a may be generally formed from a waterproof material (e.g., rubber) to prevent moisture (e.g., sweat, shower, etc.) from interfering with the electrical circuitry including the pins 200 and the indicator pins 202. Furthermore, the first and second portions 140, 142 may be configured to fit together to form a waterproof seal that protects the pins 200 and the indicator pins 202 from intrusion from water outside the first and second portions 140, 142. Additionally, the intrusion of non-salt water and / or salt water may indicate a disconnection (or lack of a complete waterproof connection) between the first and second portions 140, 142 of the connector 42a. The one or more indicator pins 202 may provide feedback regarding the status of the connector 42a. The condition may be one or more conditions of the connector 42a during use of the system 10. The conditions may include, but are not limited to, a lack of connection, the presence of water, the presence of salt, the presence of one or more foreign substances, a disconnection of the first portion 140 from the second portion 142, and combinations thereof. To that end, in some embodiments, the indicator pin 202 can aid in detecting, for example, a disconnection of the first portion 140 of the connector 42a to the second portion 142 of the connector 42a. In some embodiments, the indicator pin 202 can aid in detecting, for example, a loss of voltage and / or a loss of current between the first portion 140 of the connector 42a and the second portion 142 of the connector 42a.

[0068] 4D , one or more pins 200 in the first portion 140 of the connector 42a can be matingly connected to one or more socket connectors 212a in the second portion 142 of the connector 42a. Similarly, one or more index pins 202 in the first portion 140 of the connector 42a can be matingly connected to one or more index socket connectors 212b in the second portion 142 of the connector 42a. The pins 200, index pins 202, socket connectors 212a, and index socket connectors 212b are constructed from or coated with a conductive material, such as copper, aluminum, gold, silver, and combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the depth d of the socket connector 212a associated with each pin 200 is 0.05 mm. P is the depth d of the indicator socket connector 212b associated with each indicator pin 202 I In some embodiments, the depth d of the socket connector 212a associated with each pin 200 may be set to 0 so that disconnection between one or more indicator pins 202 and the indicator socket connector 212b can occur before disconnection of the pin 200 from the socket connector 212a. P is the depth d of the indicator socket connector 212b associated with each indicator pin 202 I Monitoring the connection or disconnection of one or more indicator pins 202 with indicator socket connector 212b allows for detection of partial disconnection, and thus possible and / or impending disconnection (or impending disconnection) of first portion 140 from second portion 142.

[0069] In some embodiments, the one or more indicator pins 202 may be aligned along the length L of the pin 200. P The same length as L IIn some embodiments, the length L of one or more indicator pins 202 may be set to 0 so that a disconnection between one or more indicator pins 202 and an associated indicator socket connector 212b can occur before a disconnection between pin 200 and an associated socket connector 212a and / or so that one or more indicator pins 202 can be configured to provide detection of possible and / or potential disconnection of first portion 140 from second portion 142. I is the length of pin 200 L P It can be made shorter.

[0070] Referring to FIG. 4D, in some embodiments, one or more indicating socket connectors 212b may include one or more resistors R I The indicator pin 202 may be in electrical communication with one or more indicator socket connectors 212b. Current may be supplied from the indicator pin 202 to one or more indicator socket connectors 212b. The current may be provided by the controller 85, the distal circuitry 40, the hub 30, the electric field generator 20, an external source, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the resistor R I may be a precision resistor 89 as described herein. In some embodiments, resistor R I can be one or more other resistors. One or more resistors R I An electrical parameter such as the voltage across the connector 42a may be monitored by the instrument 213 to determine the status of the connector 42a. I The voltage across the resistor R I may be monitored and / or recorded at multiple time steps by instrument 213 to detect changes in an electrical parameter such as voltage across. For example, once indicator pin 202 is matingly engaged and / or connected with indicator socket connector 212b, resistance R I A change in voltage across resistor R can indicate saltwater entering between first portion 140 and second portion 142 of connector 42a. IA calibrated voltage across the resistor R can be determined. Variations from the calibrated voltage can indicate different conditions of the connector 42a (e.g., the presence of salt water, disconnected first portion 140 and second portion 142). I A complete loss of voltage to the first portion 140 can indicate a disconnection of the first portion 140 from the second portion 142.

[0071] 4E, a diagram of an exemplary embodiment of connector 42b is shown that is constructed according to the structure of connector 42a, except that in some embodiments, two or more indicator pins 202 (shown in FIG. 4E as indicator pin 202a and indicator pin 202b) may form one or more monitoring circuits 210 (e.g., simple circuits, series circuits) across first portion 140b of connector 42b and second portion 142b of connector 42b. In some embodiments, indicator pin 202 may be positioned on first portion 140b of connector 42b, and corresponding indicator socket connectors 212b may be positioned on second portion 142b of connector 42b. One or more conductive wires 214 may be provided between indicator socket connectors 212b. Electrical current may be provided by controller 85, distal circuit 40, hub 30, electric field generator 20, an external source, or a combination thereof. To that end, when the indicator pins 202a, 202b are matingly engaged within the indicator socket connector 212b, a monitoring circuit 210 (eg, a closed circuit) may be formed.

[0072] Although the monitoring circuit 210 is described herein as being a closed circuit, it should be understood that the monitoring circuit 210 can be implemented in other ways to determine the status of the connector 42b. Example statuses include the relative locations of the first and second portions 140b, 142b to determine whether the first and second portions 140b, 142b are connected or disconnected. The monitoring circuit 210 may monitor one or more electrical sensors, optical sensors, or mechanical mechanisms to determine the relative location and / or orientation of the first and second portions 140b, 142b. Example electrical sensors may include an inductive proximity sensor, a magnetic proximity sensor, or a capacitive proximity sensor. In each of these electrical sensors, the sensor can be mounted on one of the first and second portions 140b, 142b, and the object to be detected can be mounted on the other of the first and second portions 140b, 142b. The optical sensor may include a photosource (e.g., a photodiode) mounted on one of the first portion 140b and the second portion 142b and a photodetector (e.g., a photodiode) mounted on the other of the first portion 140b and the second portion 142b. In other embodiments, the photosource and the photodetector may be mounted on one of the first portion 140b or the second portion 142b, and a reflector may be mounted on the other of the first portion 140b and the second portion 142b. Examples of mechanical mechanisms, such as one or more indicator pins 202 and indicator socket connector 212b, monitored by the monitoring circuit 210 are described in detail herein. If one or more indicator pins 202a, 202b are to be disconnected from the indicator socket connector 212b, the monitoring circuit 210 is destroyed and no current flows through the second portion 142 of the connector 42b. Monitoring (eg, by controller 85) the change in current along monitoring circuit 210 may provide the status of connector 42b.

[0073] In some embodiments, the monitoring circuit 210 includes one or more resistors R I Similar to the example embodiment in FIG. 4D, one or more resistors R IThe voltage across resistor R may be monitored to determine the status of connector 42b. I A change in voltage across resistor R can indicate saltwater entering between first portion 140 and second portion 142 of connector 42b. I A calibrated voltage across the resistor R can be determined. Variations from the calibrated voltage can indicate different conditions of the connector 42b (e.g., the presence of salt water, disconnected first portion 140 and second portion 142). I A complete loss of voltage to the first portion 140 can indicate a disconnection of the first portion 140 from the second portion 142.

[0074] 1, 4D, and 4E, in some embodiments, circuitry is provided in which an indication system 260 may be configured to provide data, status, conditions, actions, instructions, or combinations thereof to a user and / or patient. For example, in some embodiments, the indication system 260 may provide data associated with the status of one or more components of the system 10 (e.g., on / standby, error indication, battery charge status, compliance criteria). In some embodiments, the indication system 260 may be provided anywhere along the cable 25 between the hub 30 and the electric field generator 20. In some embodiments, the indication system 260 may be provided in the hub 30. In some embodiments, the indication system 260 may be provided in the distal circuitry 40. In some embodiments, the indication system 260 may be provided in the controller 85. In some embodiments, the indication system 260 may be incorporated in the connector 42, in the hub 30, in the electric field generator 20, in the controller 85, and / or combinations thereof.

[0075] In some embodiments, the indicator system 260 may perform or cause the performance of a predetermined action, such as providing visual, audible, and / or tactile feedback to a user regarding the reading status of the connector 42, based on receiving one or more signals generated by the monitoring circuit 210. The indicator system 260 may receive data regarding fluctuations in voltage and / or fluctuations in current provided via the use of the indicator pins 202. The data regarding fluctuations in voltage and / or fluctuations in current provided via the use of the indicator pins 202 may provide one or more feedback instructions to the user. The one or more feedback instructions may be provided via a visual system (e.g., LED lights, a screen, and / or a monitor, etc.), an auditory system (e.g., a tone, a buzzer), or tactile feedback (e.g., vibration). The feedback instructions, also referred to as associated actions, may include, but are not limited to, "disconnect the connector," "dry the connector," and / or "apply force to the connector." For example, the visual system may provide a red light indicating that the connector 42 is in a bad state and instructing the user to "disconnect the connector" or "push the connectors together." In another example, the visual system may provide a green light indicating that the connector 42 is in a good state and instructing the user to "continue using the system." As described herein, the system may be configured to signal the electric field generator to power down. For example, detection of a disconnection of the indicator pin from the indicator socket connector may be used as a safety mechanism to power down the electric field generator.

[0076] 5A-5E show an exemplary embodiment of a connector 42 positioned between the distal circuit 40 and the hub 30 such that signals 250 from the distal circuit 40 traverse the connector 42. For example, in FIGS. 5B and 5C, four signals 250a-250d traverse the connector 42c: a first signal 250a ("AC") for alternating current going to the electrode element 52, a second signal 250b ("Data") for data traversing between the UART 86 and the hub 30, a third signal 250c ("VCC") for power to the distal circuit 40, and a fourth signal 250d ("GND") for ground for the distal circuit 40.

[0077] 5B and 5C, a substrate 59 can support one or more electrode elements 52. The one or more electrode elements 52 can be configured for placement against a patient's body (e.g., the head) and / or the substrate 59 can be configured to hold multiple electrode elements 52 against a patient's body. One or more temperature sensors 54 can be positioned adjacent to and / or beneath each electrode element 52 to sense the temperature of the electrode element 52.

[0078] The module 65 may be mounted to the substrate 59 (either directly or through intervening components). In some embodiments, the distal circuit 40 may be mounted to the module 65. In some embodiments, power (voltage, VCC) and ground (GND) for the distal circuit 40 may be provided via the cable 35. A first portion 140c of the connector 42c is provided at the second end 122 of the cable 35, and a second portion 142c of the connector 42c is provided on the substrate 59. The first portion 140c of the connector 42c is matingly connected to the second portion 142c of the connector 42c such that electrical signals can pass through both portions 140c and 142c of the connector 42c. When both portions 140c and 142c of the connector 42c are mated, signals from the cable 35 are passed through the connector 42c to the distal circuit 40. Similarly, when both portions 140c and 142c of connector 42c are mated, signals from distal circuit 40 are passed through connector 42c to hub 30.

[0079] In some embodiments, cable 35 may be disconnected from substrate 59 when one or more transducer arrays 50 are initially placed in the patient's body. Once one or more transducer arrays 50 are in a desired position, cable 35 may be connected to transducer array 50 via connector 42c.

[0080] 5C and 5D, in some embodiments, similar to FIGS. 4C and 4D, signals 250a-250d (shown in FIG. 5B) may be provided via a plurality of pins 200 such that a first portion 140c of a connector 42c is matingly connected and / or engaged with a second portion 142c. In some embodiments, one or more pins 200 may be provided on the first portion 140c of the connector 42c (shown in FIG. 5D) to matingly connect to the second portion 142c of the connector 42c. In some embodiments, one or more pins 200 may be provided on the second portion 142c of the connector 42c to matingly connect to the first portion 140c of the connector 42c.

[0081] In some embodiments, the connector 42c may include one or more indicator pins 202 in addition to the pins 200. The one or more indicator pins 202 may be incorporated into the connector 42c. In some embodiments, the one or more indicator pins 202 may be incorporated into the same portion 140c or 142c of the connector 42c as the pins 200. In some embodiments, the one or more indicator pins 202 may be incorporated into one of the first portion 140c or the second portion 142c of the connector 42c that is different from the pins 200. The connector 42c may include a first end 204c and a second end 206c. In some embodiments, the one or more indicator pins 202 may be positioned at the first end 204c and / or the second end 206c of the connector 42c. In some embodiments, at least one indicator pin 202 may be positioned at the first end 204c of the connector 42c and at least one indicator pin 202 may be positioned at the second end 206c of the connector 42c. In some embodiments, one indicator pin 202 can be positioned at the first end 204c of the connector 42c or can be positioned at the second end 206c of the connector 42c. For clarity and simplicity, exemplary embodiments are shown showing a single indicator pin 202 (shown in FIG. 5D) and two indicator pins 202 (shown in FIG. 5E), although any number of indicator pins 202 may be used and are contemplated within the present disclosure.

[0082] The one or more indicator pins 202 can provide feedback regarding the status of the connector 42c. To that end, in some embodiments, the indicator pins 202 can help detect a disconnection or partial disconnection of the first portion 140c of the connector 42c to the second portion 142c of the connector 42c. In some embodiments, the indicator pins 202 can help detect, for example, a loss of voltage and / or a loss of current between the first portion 140c of the connector 42c and the second portion 142c of the connector 42c.

[0083] 5D, one or more pins 200 in the first portion 140c of the connector 42c can be matingly connected to one or more socket connectors 212a. Similarly, one or more indexing pins 202 in the first portion 140c of the connector 42c can be matingly connected to one or more indexing socket connectors 212b in the second portion 142c of the connector 42c. In some embodiments, the depth d of the socket connector 212a associated with each pin 200 is P is the depth d of the indicator socket connector 212b associated with each indicator pin 202 I In some embodiments, the depth d of the socket connector 212a associated with each pin 200 may be adjusted so that a disconnection between one or more indicator pins 202 can occur before disconnection of the pins 200 and / or so that one or more indicator pins 202 can be configured to provide detection of partial disconnection, and thus detection of possible and / or occurring disconnection of the first portion 140c from the second portion 142c. P is the depth d of the indicator socket connector 212b associated with each indicator pin 202 I It can be configured to be larger.

[0084] In some embodiments, the length L of one or more of the indicator pins 202 I is the length L of the pin 200 P In some embodiments, the length L of one or more indicator pins 202 may be adjusted such that a disconnection between one or more indicator pins 202 from an associated indicator socket connector 212b can occur before a disconnection of pin 200 from an associated socket connector 212a, and / or such that one or more indicator pins 202 can be configured to provide detection of a partial disconnection, or potential disconnection and / or possible disconnection, of first portion 140c from second portion 142c. I is the length of pin 200 L P It can be made shorter.

[0085] Referring to FIG. 5D, in some embodiments, one or more indicating socket connectors 212b may include one or more resistors R I In some embodiments, the resistor R I may be a precision resistor 89 as described herein. In some embodiments, resistor R I can be one or more other resistors. One or more resistors R I The voltage across resistor R may be monitored to determine the status of connector 42c. For example, once indicator pin 202 is matingly connected and / or engaged with indicator socket connector 212b, resistor R I A change in voltage across resistor R can indicate saltwater entering between the first portion 140c and the second portion 142c of connector 42c. I A calibrated voltage across the resistor R can be determined. Variations from the calibrated voltage can indicate different conditions of the connector 42c (e.g., the presence of salt water, disconnected first and second portions 140c and 142c, partial disconnection). I A complete loss of voltage to may indicate a disconnection of the first portion 140c from the second portion 142c.

[0086] Referring now to FIG. 5E, a connector 42d is shown that is constructed in accordance with the previously described connector 42c, except that in some embodiments, two or more indicator pins 202 may form one or more monitoring circuits 210a (e.g., simple circuits, series circuits) across the first portion 140d of the connector 42d and the second portion 142d of the connector 42d. In some embodiments, the indicator pins 202 may be positioned on the first portion 140d of the connector 42d, and corresponding indicator socket connectors 212b may be positioned on the second portion 142d of the connector 42d. One or more conductive wires 214 may be provided between the indicator pins 202 or the indicator socket connectors 212b. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 5E, electrical current may be provided by the controller 85, the distal circuit 40, the hub 30, the electric field generator 20, an external source, or a combination thereof. As such, when the indicator pins 202 are matingly engaged within the indicator socket connectors 212b, a monitoring circuit 210a (i.e., a closed circuit) may be formed. If one or more indicator pins 202 were to be disconnected from the indicator socket connector 212b, the monitoring circuit 210a would be destroyed and no current would flow through the second portion 142d of the connector 42d. Monitoring the change in current along the monitoring circuit 210a can provide the status of the connector 42d by disconnecting one or more indicator pins 202 from the associated indicator socket connector 212b prior to disconnection (e.g., partial disconnection) of the pins 200 from the associated socket connector 212a.

[0087] Referring to FIG. 5F, another example of a connector 42e constructed in accordance with the present disclosure is shown. The connector 42e includes a first portion 140e and a second portion 142e. The connector 42e is similar in structure and function to the previously described connector 42d, except that the indicator pin 202 is the same length as the pin 200, but the indicator socket connector 212b is nested within the second portion 142e. Specifically, the second portion 142e is provided with a first side 216 adjacent to the socket connector 212a and the indicator socket connector 212b. The socket connector 212a may extend through the first side 216. The first side 216 is configured to mate with the first portion 140e so that the pin 200 can extend into the socket connector 212a and the indicator pin 202 can extend into the indicator socket connector 212b. Openings 218a and 218b may be provided between the first side 216 and the indicating socket connector 212b for passing and engaging the indicator pin 202 with the indicating socket connector 212b. The socket connector 212a may be flush with the first side 216 (or may be spaced a first distance from the first side 216), and the indicating socket connector 212b may be spaced a second distance 220 from the first side 216. The second distance 220 is greater than the first distance that the socket connector 212a is spaced from the first side 216 to effect disconnection of the indicator socket connector 212b from the indicator pin 202 prior to disconnection of the pin 200 from the socket connector 212a. In some embodiments, two or more indicator pins 202 may form one or more monitoring circuits 210a (e.g., a simple circuit, a series circuit) across the first portion 140e of the connector 42e and the second portion 142e of the connector 42e.

[0088] In some embodiments, the indicator pin 202 can be connected to the first portion 140e of the connector 42e, and the corresponding indicator socket connector 212b can be connected to the second portion 142e of the connector 42e. One or more conductive wires 214 can be provided between the indicator socket connectors 212b in the second portion 142e. Electric current can be provided by the controller 85, the distal circuit 40, the hub 30, the electric field generator 20, an external source, or a combination thereof. Thus, when the indicator pin 202 is matingly engaged in the indicator socket connector 212b, a monitoring circuit 210a (i.e., a closed circuit) can be formed. If one or more indicator pins 202 are to be disconnected from the indicator socket connector 212b, the monitoring circuit 210a is broken and no current flows through the second portion 142e of the connector 42e. Monitoring changes in current along the monitoring circuit 210a can provide the status of the connector 42e by disconnecting one or more indicator pins 202 from the associated indicator socket connector 212b prior to disconnecting (e.g., partially disconnecting) the pins 200 from the associated socket connector 212a.

[0089] Referring to Figures 5D, 5E, and 5F, in some embodiments, circuitry is provided that may be configured to allow an indication system 260 (as described above with respect to Figures 4D and 4E) to provide data, status, conditions, actions, instructions, or combinations thereof, to a user and / or patient.

[0090] Referring now to FIG. 5G, an exemplary embodiment of a system 10a constructed in accordance with the present disclosure is shown. System 10a is constructed similarly to the system of FIG. 4A, except that connector 42a is inverted and shown as connector 42f having only four electrical connectors 200 and at least one single indicator pin 202. Connector 42f comprises a first portion 140 incorporating first distal circuit 40 and a second portion 142. First portion 140, including first distal circuit 40, receives each of signals 110b and processes each of signals 110b into signals 250a-250d. As discussed above (with reference to Figures 5B and 5C), four signals 250a-250d traverse connector 42f: a first signal 250a for AC current going to electrode element 52; a second signal 250b for data traversing between UART 86 and hub 30; a third signal 250c for power to distal circuitry 40; and a fourth signal 250d for ground for distal circuitry 40.

[0091] An exemplary method for using the system 10 according to the present disclosure will now be described. In a first step, one or more electrode elements 52 may be secured to the patient's body. In a second step, one or more pins 200 may be matingly connected to one or more socket connectors 212a. Accordingly, one or more indicator pins 202 may be matingly connected to one or more indicator socket connectors 212b. In a third step, a current may be provided to one or more indicator pins 202. In a fourth step, the controller 85, the hub 30, the electric field generator 20, or a combination thereof may monitor feedback from the current provided to one or more indicator pins 202 during use of the system 10 via the device 213 when obtaining one or more temperature readings and when providing a TT field. For example, the controller 85 may connect one or more resistors R to one or more resistors R to monitor feedback from the current provided to one or more indicator pins 202 as described herein. IThe hub 30 or electric field generator 20 may monitor changes in voltage across the connector 42. In a fifth step, the hub 30 or electric field generator 20 may determine the status of the connector 42 based on feedback from the current provided to the one or more indication pins 202. For example, if the voltage is zero, the determination of the status of the connector 42 may be that the first portion 140 of the connector 42 has disconnected from the second portion 142 of the connector 42. In a sixth step, one or more indications, and optionally, actions, commands, data, or a combination thereof, may be provided to the user and / or patient. For example, the one or more indications may provide the status of the connector 42 and / or may provide appropriate recommended actions to ensure continued use of the connector 42.

[0092] Optionally, if a disconnection or partial disconnection is detected, a signal from monitoring circuit 210 or indication system 260 may be sent to electric field generator 20 to cause a predetermined action, such as powering down electric field generator 20. Electric field generator 20 may be provided with a power-down circuit configured to receive the signal and cause power down of electric field generator 20. The power-down circuit may be an interface to a microprocessor or an analog-to-digital converter coupled to a relay.

[0093] In some embodiments, an optional step may include disconnecting the first portion 140 of the connector 42 from the second portion 142 of the connector 42 (i.e., the pin 200 may be disconnected from the socket connector 212a and the indicator pin 202 may be disconnected from the indicator socket connector 212b) so that the electrode element 52 can be sanitized and / or cleaned. The first portion 140 of the connector 42 may then be reconnected to the second portion 142 of the connector 42.

[0094] Referring now to FIG. 6, a diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a system 10a constructed in accordance with the present disclosure is shown. System 10a includes a signal connector 21 as an electric field generator operable to connect cable 25 to electric field generator 20. As shown in FIG. 6, cable 25 may be an eight-conductor cable electrically coupled to hub 30a. In this embodiment, hub 30a may function as a junction box operable to connect each transducer array 50 to electric field generator 20. As shown, hub 30a includes four cables 35 (i.e., cables 35a-d) that connect to four connectors 42a-1-42a-4. In some embodiments, connectors 42a-1-42a-4 are similar in structure and function to connector 42a, while connectors 42a-1-42a-2 may be similar in structure and function to either connector 42b or connector 42g.

[0095] In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 6 , connectors 42a-1 through 42a-4 include distal circuitry 40 integrated with each of connectors 42a-1 through 42a-4. Each of connectors 42a-1 through 42a-4 includes at least ten pins 200 as previously described. Each of four cables 35 may be a four-wire cable between a particular connector 42a and hub 30a. In one embodiment, each of connectors 42a-1 through 42a-4 is a USB Type-C connector having at least 24 pins. In one embodiment, the USB Type-C connector is configured to be reversible, i.e., the USB Type-C connector is configured to mate in any possible orientation.

[0096] Referring now to FIG. 7, a diagram of an example embodiment of connector 42a-1 is shown. Connectors 42a-1 through 42a-4 may be identical in structure. Therefore, only connector 42a-1 will be described hereafter for brevity. As shown, connector 42a-1 is electrically coupled to cable 35 and includes first portion 140a. In one embodiment, connector 42a-1 may use a common or standard connector, such as a USB Type-C (USB-C) connector, and first portion 140a may be a USB-C port operable to accept a USB-C plug. In one embodiment, both first portion 140a and second portion 142a (shown in FIG. 8) are USB-C ports operable to accept a USB-C plug, and intermediate connector 145 comprising a USB-C plug may be used to couple second portion 142a to first portion 140a. In one embodiment, a USB-C connector and wire may be used in place of both cable 35 and cable 25.

[0097] In one embodiment, the USB Type-C connector is a waterproof connector. For example, a waterproof USB Type-C connector may include a gasket between the first portion 140 and the second portion 142 such that when the first portion 140 is mated with the second portion 142, the gasket compresses to create a watertight seal between the first portion 140 and the second portion 142, thereby preventing contaminants such as water from penetrating the watertight seal and contacting one or more of the pins 200, the support 202, or the socket 212.

[0098] 8, there is shown a top-down perspective view of a connector 42a-1 and an exemplary embodiment of a transducer array 50 constructed in accordance with the present disclosure. The transducer array 50 includes a plurality of electrode elements 52, each associated with a specific temperature sensor 54. A plurality of wires 45 conduct signals 110b from the respective temperature sensors 54 of each electrode element 52 to the second portion 142a of the connector 42a-1. The distal circuitry 40 processes the plurality of signals 110b into data signals and transmits the data signals along one of four conductors 51, such as the GND, VCC, DATA, and TTF of the four-wire cable 35 discussed in more detail above.

[0099] A plurality of wires 45 extend to the plurality of electrode elements 52. The plurality of wires 45 is shown as ten wires 45 extending from the plurality of electrode elements 52 to the second portion 142a of the connector 42a-1. In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 8, the distal circuit 40 is embedded in the circuitry within the first portion 140a of the connector 42a-1 and coupled to a cable 35, such as a four-wire cable.

[0100] 9, there is shown a bottom-up perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a connector 42a-1 and the transducer array 50 of FIG. 8 constructed in accordance with the present disclosure. The transducer array 50 includes a plurality of electrode elements 52, each associated with a specific temperature sensor 54 that is not visible from this perspective view. A plurality of wires 45 conduct signals 110a, 110b, and 110c from the respective temperature sensors 54 of each electrode element 52 to a second portion 142a of the connector 42a-1. The distal circuitry 40 processes the plurality of signals 110b into data signals and transmits the data signals along one of four conductors 51, such as the GND, VCC, DATA, and TTF of the four-wire cable 35 discussed in more detail above.

[0101] Referring now to FIG. 10 , a diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a hub 30a constructed in accordance with the present disclosure is shown. The hub 30a generally comprises a housing 350 that supports a plurality of array connectors 354. Each array connector 354 may be a four-wire connector constructed similarly to connectors 42c or 42d as shown in FIGS. 5D and 5E , except as discussed below. Each array connector 354 may be positioned within the housing 350. However, in some embodiments not shown in FIG. 10 , one or more array connectors 354 are not integrated into the housing 350 but are separate from the housing 350.

[0102] 10 , each array connector 354 of hub 30a may include a port 358 operable to receive a first portion 140, such as first portion 140c, or second portion 142d, and may comprise at least four pins 362a-362d operable to electrically couple port 358 to a cable 366. Each of the four pins 362a-362d may be associated with a VCC signal, a GND signal, a data signal, and a TT field signal from a respective transducer array 50 to electric field generator 20.

[0103] In one embodiment, each transducer array 50 connected to hub 30a includes distal circuitry 40 at a location between each of the respective electrode elements 52 and a port 358 operable to receive a plug, such as first portion 140a or first portion 140d. In one embodiment, a plug is electrically coupled to first distal circuit 40 and each of conductors 51 via a four-wire cable 35, such as that shown in FIG. 8. In one embodiment, the plug and port 358 (e.g., a TRRS connector) are 3.5 mm "audio jacks," i.e., the plug is a TRRS plug and port 358 is a TRRS socket or port. In this embodiment, cable 366 is used in place of cable 25 shown in FIG. 1.

[0104] In one embodiment, cable 366 can include at least 10 wires and can be constructed similarly to cable 25 (if each port 358 uses a common GND conductor 51 and a common VCC conductor 51) or can include up to 16 wires (if each port 358 uses an independent GND conductor 51 and an independent VCC conductor 51). In one embodiment, cable 366 is a USB-C cable and is connected to hub 30a via a USB-C connection. In one embodiment, each transducer array 50 is connected to hub 30a via a USB-C cable and ports 358 are USB-C ports.

[0105] In one embodiment, the housing 350 of the hub 30a may further include an attachment member 368. The attachment member 368 may be attached to the housing 350, allowing a user to attach the hub 30a to themselves. In some embodiments, the attachment member 368 is fixed to the hub 30 described herein. In some embodiments, the attachment member 368 is fixed to the module 60 and / or substrate 59 described herein.

[0106] In one embodiment, the housing 350 is flexible. In this embodiment, the housing 350 conforms to the contours of the surface on which the hub 30a is placed. For example, when the hub 30a is placed on a patient's body, the housing 350 conforms to the patient's body, or when the hub 30a is placed on a particular transducer array 50, the housing 350 conforms to the transducer array 50.

[0107] In one embodiment, attachment member 368 is a clip attachment member that allows a user to secure hub 30a to themselves, for example, by clipping hub 30a to the user's clothing.

[0108] In one embodiment, the adhesive member 368 is a sticky adhesive member, which may also be referred to as a wearable patch. The adhesive member allows a user to secure the hub 30a to themselves, for example, by using an adhesive to secure it to the user's clothing or to the user's skin. In one embodiment, the adhesive can be biocompatible over an extended period of time, such as when the adhesive member is secured to a patient's skin, meaning that the adhesive member will adhere or stick to the patient's skin and is unlikely to cause a reaction with the patient's skin.

[0109] In one embodiment, the adhesive attachment member comprises a flexible housing 350. In this embodiment, the housing 350 is flexible to allow the housing 350 to conform to the contours of the patient's body where the adhesive attachment member is placed on the patient, such as the patient's skin.

[0110] In one embodiment, the attachment member 368 is a hook and loop fastener. In one embodiment, the attachment member 368 may comprise a hook element and a loop element. One of the hook and loop elements may be attached to the housing 350, while the other of the hook and loop elements may be attached to the patient, for example, by an adhesive such as those previously described. In this manner, the hook or loop element attached to the housing 350 may engage with the hook or loop element attached to the patient. In other embodiments, the other of the hook and loop element may be attached to the patient's skin, the patient's clothing, or the particular electrode array 50, or may be attached to the patient at a particular distance from the electrode array 50. In one embodiment, suitable hook and loop fasteners are identified by the VELCRO® brand name, a trademark owned by Velcro IP Holdings LLC and manufactured by The Velcro Companies.

[0111] 11A-11C in combination, there are shown diagrams of exemplary embodiments of a system 10 having various arrangements of multiple transducer arrays 50 linked together and distal circuits 40 constructed in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0112] 11A, a system 10b is shown having multiple transducer arrays 50 "daisy-chained" together and constructed in accordance with the present disclosure. Each transducer array 50 is associated with a respective first distal circuit 40 such that when a first transducer array 50 is connected to a second transducer array 50, signals such as VCC, GND, data, and TT field signals from the first transducer array 50 are passed through the second transducer array 50 to a signal connector 21. The signal connector 21 is in circuit with the electric field generator 20 and passes the signals to the electric field generator 20. In one embodiment, the first distal circuit 40 of the second transducer array 50 and the signal connector 21 do not perform any processing on the signals from the first transducer array 50. Each of the first distal circuits 40 may be part of a module 60 as previously described.

[0113] In one embodiment, each first distal circuit 40 implements a standard communication protocol, such as one-wire SPI or I2C, thereby reducing the number of wires required for communication between the electric field generator 20 and each distal circuit 40. For example, instead of a UART 86, each distal circuit 40 may implement a communication protocol to encode / decode data. The communication protocol may conform to the requirements of one-wire SPI and / or I2C. In one embodiment, by daisy-chaining the transducer arrays 50 and implementing a communication protocol, such as I2C, the number of wires required in each cable 374 can be reduced to only five wires between the electric field generator 20 and each first distal circuit 40 associated with each transducer array 50. In one embodiment, the distal circuit 40 may be incorporated into either the first or second side of a connector attached to the cable 374.

[0114] 11B, system 10c is shown having multiple transducer arrays 50 "daisy-chained" together, constructed similarly to previously described systems 10a and 10b, except that only one of the transducer arrays 50 has a distal circuit 40a. Each transducer array 50 is associated with a cable 378 such that when a first transducer array 50 is connected to a second transducer array 50, signals 110a and 110b are transmitted from the first transducer array 50 and passed through the second transducer array 50 at connection 382. In one embodiment, distal circuit 40a receives signals 110a and 110b from each of the other transducer arrays 50 in the chain and processes signals 110b for each transducer array 50 into a data signal, as described in more detail above. Distal circuitry 40a may be a combination of hub 30 and distal circuitry 40 in this embodiment to control the operation of each transducer array 50 and convert signals 110b into data signals for electric field generators 20. As such, cable 25 communicatively coupling electric field generators 20 to distal circuitry 40a (via signal connectors 21) may include eight wires, as detailed above and shown in FIG. 2. Each of connections 382 may be part of a module 60 as previously described. In one embodiment, distal circuitry 40 may be incorporated into either the first or second side of a connector that is attached to connections 382.

[0115] 11C, system 10d is shown that is constructed similarly to previously described systems 10a, 10b, and 10c, except that system 10d has multiple transducer arrays 50 "daisy chained" together, none of the transducer arrays 50 having distal circuitry 40. Each transducer array 50 is associated with a cable 378 such that when a first transducer array 50 is connected to a second transducer array 50, signal 110 is transmitted from the first transducer array 50 and passed through the second transducer array 50 at connection 382. In one embodiment, all signals 110a and 110b from each of the chained together transducer arrays 50 are combined into a single cable 386 such that the cable 386 includes a set of wires associated with each of the transducer arrays 50, resulting in at least 10 wires per transducer array 50 if each transducer array 50 uses an independent ground signal 110c and ACC signal 110a, or at least 8 wires per transducer array 50, plus ground and ACC wires, if each transducer array 50 uses a common ground signal 110c and a common ACC signal 110a. In this embodiment, the distal circuit 40 is integrated with the electric field generator 20 (as shown in FIG. 11C), or in some embodiments, the distal circuit 40 is incorporated into the connector 21. Each of the connections 382 can be part of a module 60 as previously described. In one embodiment, the distal circuit 40 may be incorporated into either the first side or the second side of a connector that is attached to the connection portion 382 .

[0116] 12A-12C, there is shown a diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a system 10 having pre-sequencing array kits 400 constructed in accordance with the present disclosure. Each pre-sequencing array kit 400 includes a plurality of transducer arrays 50 communicatively coupled to signal connectors 21.

[0117] Referring to FIG. 12A , a pre-stretched array kit 400a is shown including multiple transducer arrays 50, each communicatively coupled to a specific distal circuit 40. As described in more detail above, each distal circuit 40 is connected to the conductors 51 of a specific cable 35. As shown in FIG. 12A , all of the conductors 51 of the cable 35 can be incorporated into a cable 392. The cable 392 includes a signal connector 21 operable to communicatively couple the cable 392 to the electric field generator 20. In this embodiment, the electric field generator 20 can include circuitry similar in function to that of the hub 30. For example, each distal circuit 40 can convert a temperature reading to a digital reading and transfer the digital reading to the electric field generator 20, and / or can transmit a temperature reading to the electric field generator 20. Each of the distal circuits 40 can be part of a module 60, as described above.

[0118] In one embodiment, the pre-sequence array kit 400a includes four transducer arrays 50, each of which is communicatively coupled to a particular distal circuit 40, as previously described.

[0119] 12B, an exemplary embodiment of system 10 is shown including a pre-string array kit 400b having multiple transducer arrays 50, each including multiple wires 45. The wires 45 from each of the transducer arrays 50 are incorporated into a cable 386. The cable 386 includes a signal connector 21 operable to communicatively couple the cable 386 to an electric field generator 20. In this embodiment, the electric field generator 20 may include circuitry similar in function to that of the distal circuit 40 and / or the hub 30. The electric field generator 20 may include analog-to-digital circuitry, such as a digital converter 83, that can directly read the temperature sensors 54 for each respective electrode element 52 of each respective transducer array 50. The electric field generator 20 may also directly control the TT field signals for each respective transducer array 50.

[0120] In one embodiment, the pre-string array kit 400b includes four transducer arrays 50, each with wiring 45 that is incorporated into a cable 386, as previously described.

[0121] 12C, a pre-stretched array kit 400c is shown having multiple transducer arrays 50, each having multiple wires 45. The wires 45 from each of the transducer arrays 50 are incorporated into a cable 386. The cable 386 is communicatively coupled to a distal circuit 40b, which is further coupled to a signal connector 21. The distal circuit 40b may be included in the module 60 and may include clips 368 as previously described. Similar to the functionality of the distal circuit 40a described previously, the distal circuit 40b receives signals 110a and 110b from each of the transducer arrays 50 via the wires 45 combined with the cable 386 and processes the signals 110b into data signals for each of the transducer arrays 50 before transmitting the data signals to the electric field generator 20 via the signal connector 21, as previously described in detail. The distal circuitry 40b may include analog-to-digital circuitry, such as a digital converter 83, that can directly read the temperature sensors 54 for each respective electrode element 52 of each respective transducer array 50, and may include circuitry such as the circuitry of the hub 30 shown in FIG. 2.

[0122] In one embodiment, the pre-sequence array kit 400c includes four transducer arrays 50, each of which includes wiring 45 that is incorporated into the cable 386 and coupled to the distal circuitry 40b, as previously described.

[0123] In one embodiment, distal circuit 40b is integrated with signal connector 21. Signal connector 21 may then be electrically coupled to electric field generator 20. In some embodiments, signal connector 21 is slidably coupled to electric field generator 20. In some embodiments, signal connector 21 may be removably attached to electric field generator 20. In one embodiment, signal connector 21 includes one or more indicating electrical connectors constructed similarly to indicating electrical connector 202 described above. In some embodiments, signal connector 21 is constructed similarly to one of connectors 42c, 42d, 42e, and / or 42f, except that signal connector 21 may have more or fewer electrical connectors 200 as determined by the number of conductors required for a particular embodiment.

[0124] In one embodiment, the pre-sequenced sequencing kit 400c includes a cable between the distal circuit 40b and the signal connector 21. In some embodiments, the cable may be a helical cable, such as the helical cable 25′ shown in FIG. 13 and discussed in more detail below. As previously described, the distal circuit 40b may also include an attachment member 368 to enable a user to secure the distal circuit 40b to their clothing, for example.

[0125] In one embodiment, pre-sequencing kit 400c includes a second cable between signal connector 21 and electric field generator 20. In this embodiment, the second cable may be a helical cable, such as helical cable 25′ discussed below. The second cable may include a first connector at a first end operable to receive signal connector 21 and a second connector at a second end constructed similarly to signal connector 21. In this manner, the second cable may be used to increase the distance between electric field generator 20 and pre-sequencing kit 400c. When the second cable is no longer desired, signal connector 21 can be disconnected from the first connector, the second connector can be disconnected from electric field generator 20, and signal connector 21 can be coupled to electric field generator 20 in place of the second connector.

[0126] 12D , an exemplary embodiment of the system 10 of FIG. 12B is shown, except that the electric field generator 20 includes two or more distal circuits 40. The system 10 of FIG. 12D generally includes a pre-strung array kit 400b having multiple transducer arrays 50, each having multiple wires 45. The wires 45 from each of the transducer arrays 50 are incorporated into a cable 386. The cable 386 includes a signal connector 21 operable to communicatively couple the cable 386 to the electric field generator 20. In this embodiment, the electric field generator 20 may include two or more circuit configurations similar in function to the distal circuits 40 and / or the hub 30. For example, the electric field generator 20 may include a first distal circuit 40-1 and a second distal circuit 40-2. The electric field generator 20 may also include analog-to-digital circuitry, such as a digital converter 83, to directly read the temperature sensors 54 for each respective electrode element 52 of each respective transducer array 50. The electric field generator 20 may also directly control the TT field signals for each respective transducer array 50. In one embodiment, the electric field generator 20 may include three or more distal circuits 40, e.g., a first distal circuit 40-1 and a second distal circuit 40-2. In one embodiment, the electric field generator 20 may include a number of distal circuits 40 equal to the number of transducer arrays 50. In one embodiment, the electric field generator 20 may include up to the number of distal circuits 40 needed to communicate with the number of transducer arrays 50 needed to administer therapeutically effective TT fields.

[0127] 13, there is shown a diagram of an exemplary embodiment of system 10b constructed in accordance with the present disclosure, except that cable 25 is cable 25'. Cable 25' is similar in form and function to cable 25, except that cable 25' is a helical cable 25. By utilizing cable 25', forces at signal connector 21, etc., caused by movement of transducer array 50 when cable 25 is in use are absorbed by cable 25' when cable 25' is in use, thereby reducing the likelihood of cable 25' becoming disconnected from electric field generator 20. In one embodiment, the entire length of cable 25' has a helical configuration, while in other embodiments, the entire length of cable 25' does not have a helical configuration.

[0128] Although cable 25' is shown as being a helical cable, any other cable or wire in any of the previously described systems 10 may be a helical cable. For example, one or more of cables 25, 35, 366, 374, 378, 386, and 392 may be formed with one or more helices, either along the entire length of the respective cable or along less than the entire length of the respective cable.

[0129] Non-Limiting Illustrative Embodiments of the Present Concept Below is a numbered list of non-limiting exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts disclosed herein.

[0130] Exemplary Embodiment 1. An apparatus for applying an electric field through a target region in a patient's body, comprising: at least one transducer array having a plurality of electrode elements configured for placement on a patient's body, the electrode elements configured to provide a TT-Field; a connector electrically connected to the at least one transducer array, the connector having at least one associated monitoring circuit configured to provide feedback regarding the status of the connector; An apparatus comprising:

[0131] Exemplary Embodiment 2. The apparatus of Exemplary Embodiment 1, wherein the connector has a plurality of pin or socket connectors in electrical communication with the transducer array, at least one of the pin or socket connectors being an indicating electrical connector.

[0132] Exemplary embodiment 3. a first portion, wherein the indicating electrical connector is an indicating pin incorporated into the first portion of the connector; a second part including an indicator socket connector associated with the indicator pin, the indicator socket connector being incorporated into the second part of the connector; and 3. The apparatus of Example Embodiment 2, further comprising:

[0133] Exemplary Embodiment 4. The apparatus of Exemplary Embodiment 3, wherein the plurality of pins are incorporated into the first portion of the connector, and the second portion of the connector further comprises a plurality of socket connectors, each socket connector operable to receive a particular one of the plurality of pins incorporated into the first portion of the connector.

[0134] Exemplary Embodiment 5. The apparatus of exemplary embodiment 3, wherein the first length of at least one of the plurality of pins is greater than the second length of the at least one indicator pin.

[0135] Exemplary Embodiment 6. The apparatus of exemplary embodiment 4, wherein the first depth of the plurality of socket connectors is greater than the second depth of the supporting socket connector.

[0136] Exemplary Embodiment 7. The apparatus of exemplary embodiment 6, wherein the connector further comprises a first end and a second end, and the indicator pin is positioned at the first end of the connector.

[0137] Exemplary Embodiment 8. The apparatus of Exemplary Embodiment 3, wherein the apparatus further comprises at least one resistor in electrical communication with the indicating socket connector, and wherein the feedback regarding the status of the connector comprises a voltage change across the at least one resistor.

[0138] Exemplary Embodiment 9. The apparatus of Exemplary Embodiment 3, wherein the connector further comprises at least two indicator pins, a first end, and a second end, at least one indicator pin positioned at the first end of the connector and at least one indicator pin positioned at the second end of the connector.

[0139] Exemplary Embodiment 10. The apparatus of exemplary embodiment 9, further comprising a conductive line positioned between at least two indicating socket connectors forming a monitoring circuit.

[0140] Exemplary Embodiment 11. The device of exemplary embodiment 10, wherein the controller is configured to determine the status of the connector via the monitoring circuit.

[0141] Example Embodiment 12. The device of Example Embodiment 11, wherein the controller determines the status of the connector by monitoring changes to current in the monitoring circuit or by monitoring changes to voltage in the monitoring circuit.

[0142] Exemplary Embodiment 13. The device of Exemplary Embodiment 1, wherein the at least one monitoring circuit is configured to generate a signal indicating a status of the connector, and the device further comprises an indication system configured to receive the signal and provide at least one of visual feedback, auditory feedback, or tactile feedback to a user regarding the status of the connector.

[0143] Exemplary Embodiment 14. The apparatus of Exemplary Embodiment 1, further comprising an electric field generator, wherein the connector comprises a first portion configured to be connected to the second portion, wherein a status of the connector is “disconnected” or “partially disconnected” of the first portion from the second portion, wherein the monitoring circuit is configured to generate a signal indicating the connector status of “disconnected” or “partially disconnected” between the first portion and the second portion, and further wherein the electric field generator receives the signal indicating the connector status of “disconnected” or “partially disconnected” between the first portion and the second portion and powers off the electric field generator.

[0144] Exemplary embodiment 15. A method for monitoring a device for applying an electric field through a target region in a patient's body, comprising: electrically connecting the connector to at least one transducer array, the at least one transducer array having a plurality of electrode elements configured for placement on a patient's body, the electrode elements configured to provide a TT-Field; passing an electrical current through at least one indicating pin incorporated in a first portion of the connector and an associated indicating socket connector incorporated in a second portion of the connector; monitoring data from the current flowing; determining the status of the connector based on the monitored data; providing a predetermined action based on the status of the connector; A method comprising:

[0145] Exemplary Embodiment 16. The method of Exemplary Embodiment 15, wherein the predetermined action is to provide at least one of a visual indication, an audible indication, or a tactile indication to the user of the status of the connector.

[0146] Exemplary Embodiment 17. The method of exemplary embodiment 15, wherein the connector is configured to connect to an electric field generator, the connector status is "disconnected" or "partially disconnected" of at least one indicator pin from an associated indicator socket connector, and the predetermined action is to power down the electric field generator.

[0147] Exemplary embodiment 18. A plurality of transducer arrays, a substrate supporting a plurality of electrode elements configured for placement on a patient's body, the electrode elements configured to provide a TT field, at least one electrode element associated with a temperature sensor, each transducer array electrically connected to a first side of a connector, each transducer array comprising distal circuitry electrically coupled to each of the plurality of electrode elements of the transducer array and operable to receive a temperature signal from each of the associated temperature sensors, and operable to output a data signal and to receive a TT field signal, the distal circuitry being either supported by the substrate, incorporated into the first side of the connector, or both, or positioned in circuit between the transducer array and the connector, the connector further comprising a plurality of pin or socket connectors in electrical communication with the transducer array; and At least one monitoring circuit configured to provide feedback regarding the status of the connector a plurality of transducer arrays each having a a hub electrically coupled to each of the plurality of transducer arrays; an electric field generator electrically coupled to the hub and operable to receive one or more data signals and output one or more TT-Field signals; A system comprising:

[0148] Exemplary Embodiment 19. The system of exemplary embodiment 18, wherein the connector further comprises a first end and a second end, wherein the monitoring circuit is coupled to at least one indicating electrical connector comprising a first indicating pin and a second indicating pin, wherein the first indicating pin is positioned at the first end of the connector and the second indicating pin is positioned at the second end of the connector, and wherein the connector further comprises a conductive line positioned between the at least two indicating socket connectors forming a monitoring circuit configured to determine a status of the connector.

[0149] Exemplary Embodiment 20. The system of exemplary embodiment 18, wherein the monitoring circuit generates a signal indicating a "disconnected" or "partially disconnected" connector status of the first and second portions, and the electric field generator receives the signal indicating a "disconnected" or "partially disconnected" connector status of the first and second portions and powers off the electric field generator.

[0150] Example Embodiment 21. A connector for use in a TT Field system, comprising: A first portion, a plurality of pins incorporated into the first portion and configured to be electrically connected to the array of transducers; at least one indicator pin incorporated into the first portion, the at least one indicator pin having a first length that is less than a second length of at least one of the plurality of pins; A connector comprising a first portion having:

[0151] Exemplary embodiment 22. passing an electrical current through at least one indicating pin incorporated in a first portion of the connector and an associated indicating socket connector incorporated in a second portion of the connector; monitoring data from the current flowing; determining the status of the connector based on the monitored data; providing at least one visual indication to a user of the status of the connector; A method comprising:

[0152] Exemplary embodiment 23. A connector for use in a TT Field system, comprising: A first portion, a plurality of electrical connectors incorporated into the first portion and configured to be electrically connected to the array of transducers; and At least two supporting electrical connectors incorporated into the first part a first portion having Two indicating electrical connectors electrically connecting conductors and A connector comprising:

[0153] Exemplary embodiment 24. An apparatus for use in a TT Fields system, comprising: at least one transducer array having a plurality of electrode elements configured for placement on a patient's body, the electrode elements configured to provide a TT-Field; a connector electrically connected to at least one transducer array, a plurality of electrical connectors in electrical communication with the transducer array; and at least one indicating electrical connector electrically isolated from the transducer array and configured to provide feedback regarding the status of the connector; a connector having a first portion comprising: An apparatus comprising:

[0154] Exemplary embodiment 25. An apparatus for applying an electric field through a target region in a patient's body, comprising: at least one transducer array having a plurality of electrode elements configured for placement on a patient's body and at least one temperature sensor, the electrode elements configured to provide a TT Field; a distal circuit electrically coupled to the at least one transducer array and operable to receive a temperature signal from the at least one temperature sensor; a connector electrically connected to the distal circuit, the distal circuit being positioned in the circuit between the transducer array and the connector; An apparatus comprising:

[0155] Exemplary Embodiment 26. The apparatus of exemplary embodiment 25, wherein at least one electrode element is associated with a temperature sensor.

[0156] Exemplary Embodiment 27. The device of exemplary embodiment 25, wherein the distal circuit is integrated into the first side of the connector.

[0157] Exemplary Embodiment 28. The apparatus of exemplary embodiment 27, wherein the connector comprises at least four pin or socket connectors in electrical communication with the transducer array.

[0158] Exemplary Embodiment 29. The device of exemplary embodiment 25, wherein the distal circuitry is incorporated into each of the at least one transducer array.

[0159] Exemplary Embodiment 30. The apparatus of exemplary embodiment 25, wherein the at least one transducer array has a substrate, and the distal circuitry is supported by the substrate.

[0160] Exemplary Embodiment 31. The apparatus of exemplary embodiment 25, wherein the at least one transducer array has a substrate, and the distal circuitry is not supported by the substrate.

[0161] Exemplary Embodiment 32. The device of Exemplary Embodiment 25, wherein the distal circuitry comprises at least two of an analog-to-digital converter, an analog multiplexer, a digital multiplexer, a controller, and a transceiver.

[0162] Exemplary embodiment 33. a plurality of transducer arrays, each having a substrate supporting a plurality of electrode elements configured for placement on a patient's body, the electrode elements configured to provide a TT field, at least one electrode element associated with a temperature sensor, each transducer array electrically connected to a first side of the connector, each transducer array comprising distal circuitry electrically coupled to each of the plurality of electrode elements of the transducer array and operable to receive a temperature signal from each of the associated temperature sensors, output a data signal, and receive a TT field signal, the distal circuitry being either supported by the substrate, incorporated into the first side of the connector, or both, or positioned in circuitry between the transducer array and the connector; a hub electrically coupled to each of the plurality of transducer arrays; an electric field generator electrically coupled to the hub and operable to receive one or more data signals and output one or more TT-Field signals; A system comprising:

[0163] Exemplary Embodiment 34. The system of exemplary embodiment 33, wherein each of the plurality of transducer arrays has a connector second side and is electrically coupled to a cable that is electrically coupled to the hub.

[0164] Exemplary Embodiment 35. The system of exemplary embodiment 34, wherein the cable is a helical cable.

[0165] Exemplary Embodiment 36. The system of exemplary embodiment 34, wherein the cable comprises four conductors.

[0166] Exemplary Embodiment 37. The system of exemplary embodiment 34, wherein the cable is electrically coupled to the hub via a TRRS connector.

[0167] Exemplary Embodiment 38. The system of exemplary embodiment 33, further comprising a cable electrically coupled to the hub and electrically coupled to the electric field generator.

[0168] Exemplary Embodiment 39. The system of exemplary embodiment 38, wherein the cable is a spiral cable.

[0169] Exemplary Embodiment 40. The system of exemplary embodiment 33, wherein the hub further comprises an attachment member selected from a clip, an adhesive, and a hook or loop element of a hook-and-loop fastener.

[0170] Exemplary Embodiment 41. The system of exemplary embodiment 40, wherein the hook and loop fastener is a Velcro® fastener.

[0171] Exemplary embodiment 42. a plurality of transducer arrays each having a plurality of electrode elements configured for placement on a patient's body and at least one temperature sensor, the electrode elements configured to provide a TT field, and each transducer array having a first side of a connector; a hub electrically coupled to each of the plurality of transducer arrays, the hub operable to receive temperature signals from the at least one temperature sensor, and the hub comprising distal circuitry operable to receive TT field signals for each of the plurality of transducer arrays; an electric field generator electrically coupled to the hub and operable to receive one or more data signals and output one or more TT-Field signals; A system comprising:

[0172] Exemplary Embodiment 43. The system of exemplary embodiment 42, wherein at least one electrode element is associated with a temperature sensor.

[0173] Exemplary embodiment 44. a plurality of transducer arrays each comprising a substrate supporting a plurality of electrode elements configured for placement on a patient's body and at least one temperature sensor, the electrode elements configured to provide a TT Field; at least one distal circuit operable to receive a temperature signal from at least one temperature sensor of the plurality of transducer array, and operable to output a data signal and receive a TT field signal; an electric field generator electrically coupled to the at least one distal circuit and operable to receive one or more data signals and output one or more TTField signals; A system comprising:

[0174] Exemplary Embodiment 45. The system of exemplary embodiment 44, wherein at least one electrode element is associated with a temperature sensor.

[0175] Exemplary embodiment 46. The system of exemplary embodiment 44, wherein at least one distal circuit is incorporated into each of the transducer arrays.

[0176] Exemplary embodiment 47. The system of exemplary embodiment 44, wherein at least one distal circuit is integrated with the electric field generator.

[0177] Exemplary Embodiment 48. The system of exemplary embodiment 44, wherein the at least one distal circuit comprises a distal circuit associated with each transducer array, and the electric field generator is electrically coupled to each distal circuit.

[0178] Exemplary Embodiment 49. The system of exemplary embodiment 48, wherein the multiple transducer arrays are linked together in a chain, each transducer array having a distal circuit associated with it.

[0179] Exemplary embodiment 50. The system of exemplary embodiment 44, wherein the plurality of transducer arrays comprises n transducer arrays linked together in a chain, and there are fewer than n distal circuits.

[0180] Exemplary Embodiment 51. The system of exemplary embodiment 44, wherein the at least one distal circuit is positioned in a wearable patch that can optionally be adhered or affixed to the patient's body.

[0181] Exemplary Embodiment 52. The system of exemplary embodiment 44, wherein the at least one distal circuit is positioned on a patch that is adhered or affixed to the substrate.

[0182] Exemplary Embodiment 53. The system of exemplary embodiment 44, wherein the system further comprises a hub electrically connected to each of the plurality of transducer arrays, the hub comprising one of the at least one distal circuit.

[0183] Exemplary embodiment 54. The system of exemplary embodiment 44, wherein the system comprises a plurality of transducer arrays, each of the transducer arrays having distal circuitry operable to receive, for each transducer array, a temperature signal from each of the associated temperature sensors of the electrode elements, each distal circuitry operable to receive a data signal and output a TT field signal.

[0184] Exemplary embodiment 55. a first transducer array comprising a first substrate supporting a plurality of first electrode elements configured for placement on a patient's body and at least one first temperature sensor, the first electrode elements being configured to provide a TT field; a connection electrically coupled to the first transducer array, operable to receive a first temperature signal from at least one first temperature sensor of the first transducer array, operable to output the first temperature signal and to receive a first TT field signal; a second transducer array comprising a second substrate supporting a plurality of second electrode elements configured for placement on a patient's body and at least one second temperature sensor, the second electrode elements configured to provide a TT field; a distal circuit in communication with the connection, operable to receive a first temperature signal from at least one first temperature sensor of the first transducer array and a second temperature signal from at least one second temperature sensor of the second transducer array, and operable to output first and second data signals and receive first and second TT field signals; an electric field generator electrically coupled to the distal circuit and operable to receive the first and second data signals and to output the first and second TT field signals; A system comprising:

[0185] Exemplary Embodiment 56. The system of exemplary embodiment 55, wherein the at least one first electrode element and the at least one second electrode element are associated with a temperature sensor.

[0186] Exemplary embodiment 57. a first transducer array comprising a first substrate supporting a plurality of first electrode elements configured for placement on a patient's body and at least one first temperature sensor, the first electrode elements being configured to provide a TT field; a first distal circuit operable to receive a first temperature signal from at least one first temperature sensor of the first transducer array, to output a first data signal, and to receive a first TT-field signal; a second transducer array comprising a second substrate supporting a plurality of second electrode elements configured for placement on a patient's body and at least one second temperature sensor, the second electrode elements configured to provide a TT field; a second distal circuit operable to receive a second temperature signal from at least one second temperature sensor of the second transducer array, to output a second data signal, and to receive a second TT-field signal; a cable comprising a first set of wires electrically coupled to a first transducer array and a second set of wires electrically coupled to a second transducer array; an electric field generator electrically coupled to the cable and operable to receive the first and second data signals and to output the first and second TT-field signals; A system comprising:

[0187] Exemplary Embodiment 58. The system of exemplary embodiment 57, wherein the at least one first electrode element and the at least one second electrode element are associated with a temperature sensor.

[0188] Exemplary embodiment 59. a first transducer array comprising a first substrate supporting a plurality of first electrode elements configured for placement on a patient's body and at least one first temperature sensor, the first electrode elements being configured to provide a TT field; a second transducer array comprising a second substrate supporting a plurality of second electrode elements configured for placement on a patient's body and at least one second temperature sensor, the second electrode elements configured to provide a TT field; a distal circuit operable to receive a first temperature signal from at least one first temperature sensor of the first transducer array and a second temperature signal from at least one second temperature sensor of the second transducer array, and operable to output a data signal and to receive a TT field signal; a cable comprising a first set of wires electrically coupled to a first transducer array and a second set of wires electrically coupled to a second transducer array; an electric field generator electrically coupled to the cable and operable to receive the first and second data signals and to output the first and second TT-field signals; A system comprising:

[0189] Exemplary Embodiment 60. The system of exemplary embodiment 59, wherein the at least one first electrode element and the at least one second electrode element are associated with a temperature sensor.

[0190] Exemplary embodiment 61. a plurality of transducer arrays, each transducer array having a substrate supporting a plurality of electrode elements configured for placement on a patient's body and at least one temperature sensor, the electrode elements configured to provide a TT field, each transducer array having a first side of a connector, each transducer array comprising: a distal circuit electrically coupled to the transducer array and operable to receive a temperature signal from the at least one temperature sensor, the distal circuit operable to at least output a data signal and to receive the TT field signal, the distal circuit being supported by the substrate and / or integrated into the first side of the connector, the connector being a TRRS plug; a cable having four conductors each having a first end electrically coupled to the distal circuit and a second end electrically coupled to the TRRS plug; a hub configured to receive a TRRS plug and including a plurality of TRRS sockets operable to electrically couple each of a plurality of transducer arrays to the hub; an electric field generator electrically coupled to the hub and operable to receive one or more data signals and output one or more TT-Field signals; A system comprising:

[0191] Exemplary Embodiment 62. The system of exemplary embodiment 61, wherein at least one electrode element is associated with a temperature sensor.

[0192] Exemplary embodiment 63. A plurality of transducer arrays, a substrate supporting a plurality of electrode elements configured for placement on a patient's body, the electrode elements configured to provide a TT field, at least one electrode element associated with a temperature sensor, each transducer array electrically connected to a first side of a connector, each transducer array comprising distal circuitry electrically coupled to each of the plurality of electrode elements of the transducer array and operable to receive a temperature signal from each of the associated temperature sensors, output a data signal, and receive a TT field signal, the distal circuitry being either supported by the substrate or incorporated into the first side of the connector, or both, the connector further comprising a plurality of pin or socket connectors in electrical communication with the transducer array; and At least one indicating electrical connector configured to provide feedback regarding the status of the connector a plurality of transducer arrays each having a a hub electrically coupled to each of the plurality of transducer arrays; an electric field generator electrically coupled to the hub and operable to receive one or more data signals and output one or more TT-Field signals; A system comprising:

[0193] Exemplary embodiment 64. The system of exemplary embodiment 63, wherein the connector further comprises a first end and a second end, the at least one indicating electrical connector comprises a first indicating pin and a second indicating pin, the first indicating pin positioned at the first end of the connector and the second indicating pin positioned at the second end of the connector, and the connector further comprises a conductive line positioned between the at least two indicating socket connectors forming a monitoring circuit configured to determine a status of the connector.

[0194] Exemplary Embodiment 65. The system of exemplary embodiment 64, further comprising an indication system operable to provide at least one of visual feedback, auditory feedback, or tactile feedback to a user based at least in part on a status of the connector, and optionally to take at least one associated action to continue using the connector or to power down the electric field generating device.

[0195] Exemplary Embodiment 66. The system of exemplary embodiment 63, wherein the hub is one of: disposed between each of the plurality of transducer arrays and the connector; and disposed between the connector and the electric field generator.

[0196] Exemplary embodiment 67. monitoring at least one of a relative location and orientation of a first portion of the connector relative to a second portion of the connector; determining a status of the connector based on at least one of the relative location and orientation; providing a predetermined action based on the status of the connector; A method comprising:

[0197] While the present invention has been disclosed with reference to particular embodiments and examples, numerous improvements, changes, and modifications to the described embodiments or examples are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims. It is therefore intended that the present invention not be limited to the described embodiments and examples, but rather have its full scope defined by the language of the following claims and equivalents thereof.

[0198] The foregoing description provides illustration and description, but is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the inventive concepts to the precise form disclosed. Modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teachings or may be required from practice of the methodologies described in the present disclosure.

[0199] Although particular combinations of features and steps are set forth in the claims and / or disclosed herein, these combinations are not intended to limit the disclosure. Indeed, many of these features and steps may be combined in ways not expressly set forth in the claims and / or disclosed herein. Although each dependent claim listed below may depend directly on only one other claim, the disclosure includes each dependent claim in combination with every other claim in the claim set.

[0200] Similarly, although each exemplary embodiment listed above may depend directly on only one other exemplary embodiment, the present disclosure includes each exemplary embodiment in combination with all other exemplary embodiments in the set of exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts disclosed herein.

[0201] No element, act, or instruction used in this application should be construed as critical or essential to the invention unless expressly recited in itself, except in the preferred embodiments. Further, the phrase "based on" is intended to mean "based at least in part on," unless expressly stated otherwise. [Explanation of symbols]

[0202] 10, 10a, 10b, 10c, 10d systems 21 Signal Connector 25 Cable 25' spiral cable 30, 30a hub 31 Pass-Through Conductor 32 Control device 33 Digital Multiplexer 34 Transceiver 35 Cable 40 Distal Circuit 42, 42a, 42a-1, 42a-2, 42a-3, 42a-4, 42b, 42c, 42d, 42e, 42f, 42g connectors 45 Wiring, wire 50 Transducer Array 51 Pass-Through Conductor 52 electrode elements 54 Temperature Sensor 59 Circuit Board 60, 65 modules 81 Multiplexer 82 Amplifier 83 Analog-to-Digital Converter 85 Control device 86 UART 88 Current source 89 Precision resistance 92 Output section 94 Selectable Inputs 96 Input section 98 Output section 100 Input section 102 Output section 104 Input section 110 signal 110a AC current signal 110b Temperature sensor signal 110c common ground signal 120 First End 122 Second End 140, 140a, 140b, 140c, 140d, 140e First part 142, 142b, 142c, 142d, 142e Second part 145 Intermediate Connector 200 Electrical Connectors, Pins 202 Indicating electrical connector, indicating pin 204, 204c first end 206, 206c Second end 210, 210a Monitoring circuit 212a Socket Connector 212b Indicating Socket Connector 213 Equipment 214 Conductive Wire 216 First Side 220 Second Distance 250, 250a, 250b, 250c, 250d signal 260 Instruction System 350 cabinet 354 Array Connector 358 port 362a, 362b, 362c, 362d pins 366 Cable 368 Adhesive materials, clips 374 Cable 378 Cable 382 Connection 386 Cable 392 Cable 400, 400a, 400b, 400c Sequencing Kits d I Depth d P Depth L I length L P length R I resistance

Claims

1. 1. An apparatus for applying an electric field through a target region in a patient's body, comprising: at least one transducer array having a plurality of electrode elements configured for placement on the body of the patient, the electrode elements configured to provide a TT-Field; a connector electrically connected to the at least one transducer array, the connector having at least one associated monitoring circuit configured to provide feedback regarding the status of the connector; It is equipped with the connector has a plurality of pin or socket connectors in electrical communication with the transducer array, at least one of the pin or socket connectors being an indicating electrical connector; The connector comprises: a first portion, the indicating electrical connector being an indicating pin incorporated into the first portion of the connector; a second part including an indexing socket connector associated with the indexing pin, the indexing socket connector being integrated into the second part of the connector; and It also has the first portion is configured to be connected to the second portion; the device further comprising an electric field generator operable to output one or more TT field signals to the electrode elements of the at least one transducer array; the status of the connector is "disconnected" or "partially disconnected" of the first portion from the second portion, and the monitoring circuit is configured to generate a signal indicating the status of the connector of "disconnected" or "partially disconnected" between the first portion and the second portion; The device further includes an electric field generator configured to receive a signal indicating the state of the connector of "disconnected" or "partially disconnected" between the first portion and the second portion, and to power off the electric field generator.

2. 2. The device of claim 1, wherein the plurality of pins are incorporated into the first portion of the connector, and the second portion of the connector further comprises a plurality of socket connectors, each socket connector operable to receive a particular one of the plurality of pins incorporated into the first portion of the connector.

3. The device of claim 1 , wherein a first length of at least one of the plurality of pins is greater than a second length of at least one of the indicator pins.

4. 3. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein a first depth of the plurality of socket connectors is greater than a second depth of the indicating socket connector.

5. The device of claim 4 , wherein the connector further comprises a first end and a second end, and the index pin is positioned at the first end of the connector.

6. 10. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising at least one resistor in electrical communication with the indicating socket connector, and wherein the feedback regarding the status of the connector comprises a voltage change across the at least one resistor.

7. 10. The device of claim 1, wherein the connector further comprises at least two indicator pins, a first end, and a second end, at least one indicator pin positioned at the first end of the connector and at least one indicator pin positioned at the second end of the connector.

8. 8. The device of claim 7, further comprising a conductive line positioned between at least two indicating socket connectors that form a monitoring circuit.

9. 9. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein a controller is configured to determine the status of the connector via the monitoring circuitry.

10. 10. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the controller determines the status of the connector by monitoring changes to current in the monitoring circuit or by monitoring changes to voltage in the monitoring circuit.

11. The device described in claim 1, wherein at least one of the monitoring circuits is configured to generate a signal indicating the status of the connector, and the device further comprises an indication system configured to receive the signal and provide a user with at least one of visual feedback, auditory feedback, or tactile feedback regarding the status of the connector.

12. 10. A method for monitoring an apparatus according to claim 1 for applying an electric field through a target region in a patient's body, comprising: electrically connecting a connector to at least one transducer array having a plurality of electrode elements configured for placement on the body of the patient, the electrode elements configured to provide a TT-Field; passing an electrical current through at least one indicating pin incorporated in a first portion of the connector and an associated indicating socket connector incorporated in a second portion of the connector; monitoring data from the flowing current; determining a status of the connector based on the monitored data; and providing a predetermined action based on the status of the connector. A method comprising:

13. The method of claim 12 , wherein the predetermined action is to provide a user with at least one of a visual indication, an audible indication, or a tactile indication of the status of the connector.

14. 13. The method of claim 12, wherein the connector is configured to be connected to an electric field generator, the condition of the connector is "disconnected" or "partially disconnected" of the at least one indicator pin from an associated indicator socket connector, and the predetermined action is to power down the electric field generator.

15. A plurality of transducer arrays, a substrate supporting a plurality of electrode elements configured for placement on a patient's body, the electrode elements configured to provide a TT field, at least one electrode element associated with a temperature sensor, each transducer array electrically connected to a first side of a connector, each transducer array comprising distal circuitry electrically coupled to each of the plurality of electrode elements of the transducer array and operable to receive a temperature signal from each of the associated temperature sensors, and operable to output a data signal and to receive a TT field signal, the distal circuitry being either supported by the substrate, incorporated into the first side of the connector, or both, or positioned in circuit between the transducer array and the connector, the connector further comprising a plurality of pin or socket connectors in electrical communication with the transducer array; and at least one monitoring circuit configured to provide feedback regarding the status of the connector; a plurality of transducer arrays each having a a hub electrically coupled to each of the plurality of transducer arrays; an electric field generator electrically coupled to the hub and operable to receive one or more data signals and output one or more TT-Fields signals; It is equipped with the connector further comprises a first end and a second end, the monitoring circuit is coupled to at least one indicating electrical connector comprising a first indicating pin and a second indicating pin, the first indicating pin being positioned at the first end of the connector and the second indicating pin being positioned at the second end of the connector, the connector further comprising conductive lines positioned between at least two indicating socket connectors forming the monitoring circuit configured to determine the status of the connector; The connector comprises: a first portion, the indicating electrical connector being an indicating pin incorporated into the first portion of the connector; a second part including an indexing socket connector associated with the indexing pin, the indexing socket connector being integrated into the second part of the connector; and It also has the first portion is configured to be connected to the second portion; The monitoring circuit generates a signal indicating the status of the connectors of the first and second portions being "disconnected" or "partially disconnected," and the electric field generator is configured to receive the signal indicating the status of the connectors of the first and second portions being "disconnected" or "partially disconnected," and to power off the electric field generator.

Images