Apparatus for magnetic stimulation of neurons

Abstract

This invention relates to an apparatus (5) for magnetic stimulation of neurons, in particular motor neurons and / or their attached nerve lines, comprising a hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets (10), wherein the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets (10) is formed by a first hollow cylinder portion (11) and a second hollow cylinder portion (12) at least substantially enclosing a longitudinal axis (15) of the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets (10), wherein the first hollow cylinder portion (11) and the second hollow cylinder portion (12) are each magnetized, wherein the magnetization direction of the first hollow cylinder portion (11) is opposite to the magnetization direction of the second hollow cylinder portion (12), and wherein the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets (10) is rotatable about the longitudinal axis (15).

Description

APPARATUS FOR MAGNETIC STIMULATION OF NEURONSFIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] This invention relates to an apparatus for magnetic stimulation of neurons, in particular motor neurons and / or their attached nerve lines, by the rotation of a hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets. The invention also relates to a non-therapeutical method for magnetic stimulation of neurons, in particular motor neurons and / or their attached nerve lines, with the apparatus.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The concept of magnetic nerve stimulation, i.e., the exposure of a tissue to a rapidly changing magnetic field in order to induce weak electric currents through electromagnetic induction according to Faraday’s law, is applied in many different medical treatment routines. In Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), for example, a brain of an individual is exposed to a rapidly changing magnetic field, whereby the resulting weak electric currents modify the natural electrical activity of the brain. Exposure of the periphery other than the brain to a rapidly pulsed, high-intensity magnetic field is generally referred to as Peripheral Magnetic Stimulation (PMS).

[0003] Rapidly changing magnetic fields in devices for such treatment routines are generally generated by producing pulses of high current in electromagnetic coils. However, such high currents are associated with high energy consumption due to Ohmic heating and therefore with the need of cooling of the coils. As a result, corresponding devices involve high equipment complexity and high operating costs.

[0004] Mechanically moved permanent magnets present a promising alternative to pulsed current systems. As long as there are no electrical conductors in the generated alternating field, no Ohmic heating is produced due to eddy currents. Accordingly, no energy is consumed unnecessarily by the movement (apart from minor losses in the drive, e.g., due to friction) and therefore no cooling is required. This makes treatment with such devices practicable in both medical facilities as well as at home.

[0005] EP 2 686 065 B1 describes a device for activating nerve cells and muscles by magnetic induction comprising a configuration of magnets having a full cylinder shape including at least two antiparallel magnetized magnets and three coils configured to receive a three-phase alternating current and to thereby generate a magnetic field that interacts with the magnetic field of the configuration of magnets to rotate the configuration of magnets.

[0006] WO 2023 / 031669 A2 relates to neuromodulation using electric and magnetic stimulation. In Fig. 5 of that document, a magnetic stimulation device is disclosed, comprising a permanent magnet and a power source that, when turned on, rotates the permanent magnet to produce a magnetic field, as well as a software or hardware program that directs the apparatus to produce variable rotation speeds.

[0007] EP 3 033 007 B1 relates to an apparatus for Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) comprising a head mount, a plurality of magnet assemblies, wherein each of the magnet assemblies comprises a permanent magnet, and at least one of a movement mechanism for moving the permanent magnet and / or a magnetic shield shutter mechanism, for selectively providing a rapidly changing magnetic field capable of inducing weak electric currents in the brain of an individual.

[0008] Several neurodegenerative diseases, e.g., amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) or spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), are based on damage to the peripheral nervous system, i.e. , motor neurons. None of the devices known from prior art claim or describe magnetic stimulation of motor neurons and / or their attached nerve lines and it can be assumed that none of the devices generate an alternating magnetic field which is, with respect to its strength and geometry, sufficient to achieve a stimulating effect on motor neurons and / or their attached nerve lines.OBJECT OF THE INVENTION

[0009] It is an object of the present invention to provide an apparatus and a corresponding non- therapeutical method for improved magnetic stimulation of neurons, in particular motor neurons and / or their attached nerve lines.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0010] The object is achieved by the apparatus and the method according to the independent claims. Advantageous embodiments are claimed in the dependent claims.

[0011] A first aspect of the invention relates to an apparatus for magnetic stimulation of neurons, in particular motor neurons and / or their attached nerve lines, comprising a hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets, wherein the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets is formed by a first hollow cylinder portion and a second hollow cylinder portion at least substantially enclosing a longitudinal axis of the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets. Preferably, the first hollow cylinder portion and the second hollow cylinder portion are each magnetized, wherein the magnetization direction of the first hollow cylinder portion is opposite with respect to the magnetization direction of the second hollow cylinder portion. Further preferably, the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets is rotatable about the longitudinal axis.

[0012] A second aspect of the invention relates to a non-therapeutical method for magnetic stimulation of neurons, in particular motor neurons and / or their attached nerve lines, with an apparatus according to first aspect of the invention.

[0013] Magnetic flux density B and magnetic field strength H are used interchangeably herein. The relationship between the two parameters is given by B = pH, where p is the permeability. Unless otherwise stated, the magnetic flux density B refers to the flux density in vacuum, i.e., p = po = 4TT- 10~7N A2.

[0014] Magnetic materials within the meaning of the present disclosure are preferably materials that produce a magnetic field. In particular, magnetic materials within the meaning of the present disclosure are permanent magnets, i.e., materials that produce their own persistent magnetic field. Preferably, magnetic materials within the meaning of the present disclosure are ferromagnetic materials.

[0015] Magnetically neutral materials within the meaning of the present disclosure are preferably materials that do not significantly influence the magnetic flux density of the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets, i.e., diamagnetic, paramagnetic or antiferromagnetic materials.

[0016] A hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets within the meaning of the present disclosure is preferably an arrangement of magnets having an at least substantially cylindrical shape with an at least substantially cylindrical interior that does not contain the magnetic material of the magnets. Preferably, the cylindrical interior that does not contain the magnetic material of the magnets takes up a volume of at least 25 % of the total volume of the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets. More preferably, the cylindrical interior that does not contain the magnetic material of the magnets takes up a volume of at least 50 % of the total volume of the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets. In particular, if the cylindrical arrangement of magnets has a radius R1 and the cylindrical interior that does not contain the magnetic material of the magnets has a radius R2, then preferably the following should apply: R2 > 1 R1. More preferably, the following should apply: R2 > % R1. Even more preferably, in the hollow cylindrical arrangement, the arrangement of magnets forms a ring or a set of concentrical rings, in particular with an identical diameter. The hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets may have a length of about 1 cm, or of about 10 cm or even of about 1 m along its longitudinal axis, depending on the spatial area around the apparatus, in which neurons, in particular motor neurons and / or their attached nerve lines, are to be stimulated.

[0017] Within the meaning of the present disclosure, the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets being formed by a first hollow cylinder portion and a second hollow cylinder portion is to be understood such that the first hollow cylinder portion and the second hollow cylinder portion, when arranged as intended within the apparatus, together form an arrangement of magnets having a hollow cylindrical shape. Preferably, the plane that separates the first hollow cylinder portion and the second hollow cylinder portion runs at least substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets such that both the first hollow cylinder portion and the second hollow cylinder portion comprise two ends in at least substantially tangential direction of the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets.

[0018] Within the meaning of the present disclosure, the hollow cylinder portions being each at least substantially axially magnetized is to be understood such that the magnetization direction of the hollow cylinder portions aligns at least substantially along the longitudinal axis of the hollowcylindrical arrangement of magnets. Within the meaning of the present disclosure, the hollow cylinder portions being each at least substantially radially magnetized is to be understood such that the magnetization direction of the hollow cylinder portions runs at least substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets and radiates outwards from the center of the of the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets or radiates inwards to the center of the of the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets.

[0019] Within the meaning of the present disclosure, the magnetization direction of the first hollow cylinder portion being opposite to the magnetization direction of the second hollow cylinder portion or the magnetization direction of the second hollow cylinder portion being opposite to the magnetization direction of the first hollow cylinder portion is to be understood such that if the hollow cylinder portions are each essentially axially magnetized and the first hollow cylinder portion has a magnetization direction essentially along the positive direction of the longitudinal axis of the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets, then the second hollow cylinder portion has a magnetization direction essentially along the negative direction of the longitudinal axis of the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets and, vice versa, if the second hollow cylinder portion has a magnetization direction essentially along the positive direction of the longitudinal axis of the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets then the first hollow cylinder portion has a magnetization direction essentially along the negative direction of the longitudinal axis of the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets. If the hollow cylinder portions are each radially magnetized and the first hollow cylinder portion has a magnetization direction that radiates essentially outwards from the center of the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets then the second hollow cylinder portion has a magnetization direction that radiates essentially inwards to the center of the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets and, vice versa, if the second hollow cylinder portion has a magnetization direction that radiates essentially outwards from the center of the of the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets then the first hollow cylinder portion has a magnetization direction that radiates essentially inwards to the center of the of the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets.

[0020] A motor system within the meaning of the present disclosure is preferably configured to convert a form of energy, e.g. thermal, chemical, hydraulic, pneumatic or electrical energy, into kinetic energy, in particular into a rotation.

[0021] A control module within the meaning of the present disclosure is preferably configured to control the movement of the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets via the motor system, particularly the frequency of the movement, in a programmable manner.

[0022] Within the meaning of the present disclosure, wall thickness of the first hollow cylinder portion or wall thickness of the second hollow cylinder portion refers preferably to the spatial expansion of the hollow cylinder portions radially outwards from the center of the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets. In particular, if the cylindrical arrangement of magnets has a radius R1 and the cylindrical interior that does not contain the magnetic material of the magnets has a radius R2, then the wall thickness corresponds to R1 - R2.

[0023] Within the meaning of the present disclosure, height of the first hollow cylinder portion or height of the second hollow cylinder portion refers preferably to the spatial expansion of the hollow cylinder portions along the longitudinal axis of the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets.

[0024] Within the meaning of the present disclosure, the housing being non-rotatable with respect to the rotation of the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets about the longitudinal axis is to be understood such that when the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets rotates about the longitudinal axis, the housing remains stationary and does not rotate together with the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets about the longitudinal axis.

[0025] A treatment space within the meaning of the present disclosure is preferably a certain spatial area around the apparatus, in which the generated alternating magnetic field of the apparatus, with respect to its strength and geometry, is particularly suitable for stimulation of neurons, in particular motor neurons and / or their attached nerve lines. A preferred treatment space can be chosen based on the geometry of the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets (radius of the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets, wall thickness and height of the first hollow cylinder portion and of the second hollow cylinder portion) as well as the magnetization direction of the first hollow cylinder portion and the second hollow cylinder portion and the associated particularly high local density of magnetic flux. Preferably, a treatment space towards which a particularly large area of magnetic material is facing may be chosen as preferred treatment space.

[0026] The invention is based on the approach that the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets is moved mechanically, preferably rotated, in such a way that it generates an alternating magnetic field which is, with respect to its strength and geometry, sufficient to achieve stimulation of neurons, in particular motor neurons and / or their attached nerve lines, via electromagnetic induction. The concept is that the temporal variation of the magnetic field can be controlled as desired by a suitable geometric shape of the magnets as well as by the direction and velocity of their mechanical movement.

[0027] Research results have proven the therapeutical potential of low frequency alternating current magnetic fields, in particular, magnetic stimulation in the form of low-frequency squarewave excitation, on cultured spinal motor neurons, in particular, a remarkable restoration of axonal trafficking of mitochondria and lysosomes and axonal regenerative sprouting after axotomy (Kandhavivorn, W. et al. , “Restoring Axonal Organelle Motility and Regeneration in Cultured FUS- ALS Motoneurons through Magnetic Field Stimulation Suggests an Alternative Therapeutic Approach”, Cells, 2023, Vol. 12 1502).

[0028] By means of the claimed apparatus, the change in magnetic flux B over time t preferably occurs in such an abrupt way that the function B(2nft) has an at least substantially rectangular shape. Due to this relatively abrupt change dB / dt, compared to a sinusoidal variation of B(2nft), a significantly higher induction effect can be achieved at the same or even lower fundamental frequency f of the movement of the magnets.

[0029] The design of the arrangement of magnets as hollow cylinder allows the apparatus to be built with less expensive magnetic material in comparison to a full cylindrical arrangement of magnets, while at the same time ensuring a required density of magnetic flux. Furthermore, the need for less magnetic material results in a much lighter, and therefore much more practicable, apparatus.

[0030] The apparatus is handy, compact and portable and therefore can be used outside of medical or research facilities, e.g., at home and, due to its practicability and its ease of use, enables individuals to self-administer a prescribed treatment regime at home.

[0031] In one advantageous embodiment of the apparatus, the apparatus further comprises a motor system and a control module, wherein the control module is configured to rotate the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets via the motor system with a frequency between about 2 Hz to 100 Hz, preferably with a frequency between about 10 Hz and 50 Hz, more preferably with a frequency between about 20 Hz and 30 Hz, most preferably with a frequency of about 25 Hz. Preferably, the frequency can be varied in a programmable manner via the control module.

[0032] In an advantageous embodiment of the non-therapeutical method, the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets is rotated with a frequency between about 2 Hz to 100 Hz, preferably with a frequency between about 10 Hz and 50 Hz, more preferably with a frequency between about 20 Hz and 30 Hz, most preferably with a frequency of about 25 Hz.

[0033] The apparatus comprising a motor system ensures that the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets is supplied with sufficient energy to be rotated with a specific frequency about its longitudinal axis.

[0034] The apparatus further comprising a control module configured to rotate the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets via the motor system with a specific frequency, preferably in a programmable manner, allows the operation of the apparatus, i.e. , the rotation of the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets, to be precisely controlled and therefore to apply a predefined treatment regime.

[0035] The apparatus being preferably operated in the low frequency range, furthermore, places lower demands on the mechanical stability and stiffness of components enabling the rotation of the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets, i.e., shaft and bearings, in comparison to devices operated at higher frequencies. If necessary, the apparatus may be balanced to avoid an imbalance during rotation.

[0036] In a further advantageous embodiment of the apparatus, the wall thickness of the first hollow cylinder portion in the vicinity of the two ends in tangential direction of the first hollow cylinder portion is greater than the mean wall thickness of the first hollow cylinder portion, and the wall thickness of the second hollow cylinder portion in the vicinity of the two ends in tangentialdirection of the second hollow cylinder portion is greater than the mean wall thickness of the second hollow cylinder portion. Alternatively, or additionally, the height of the first hollow cylinder portion in the vicinity of the two ends in tangential direction of the first hollow cylinder portion is greater than the mean height of the first hollow cylinder portion, and the height of the second hollow cylinder portion in the vicinity of the two ends in tangential direction of the second hollow cylinder portion is greater than the mean height of the second hollow cylinder portion.

[0037] By an increased wall thickness and / or an increased height of the hollow cylinder portions in the vicinity of their two ends in tangential direction, i.e. , by a locally increased density of magnetic material and therefore stronger magnetic flux in the vicinity of the crossover from one hollow cylinder portion magnetized in a specific direction to another hollow cylinder portion magnetized in the opposite direction, the change of magnetic flux at said crossover is increased.

[0038] In a further advantageous embodiment of the apparatus, the first hollow cylinder portion and the second hollow cylinder portion are each at least substantially axially magnetized. Alternatively, the first hollow cylinder portion and the second hollow cylinder portion are each at least substantially radially magnetized.

[0039] Magnetization of the hollow cylinder portions in axial direction results in a particularly high density of magnetic flux at the front side of the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets. Magnetization of the hollow cylinder portions in radial direction results in a particularly high density of magnetic flux at the lateral surface of the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets.

[0040] In a further advantageous embodiment of the apparatus, the first and second hollow cylinder portions are both formed by a plurality of magnetic segments.

[0041] By using magnetic segments to form the hollow cylinder portions, the geometric shapes of the hollow cylinder portions can be adjusted as required to create a desired magnetic flux as well as a desired temporal variation of the magnetic flux over time.

[0042] In a further advantageous embodiment of the apparatus, the first hollow cylinder portion and the second hollow cylinder portion are encased in or on a, in particular magnetically neutral, carrier plate.

[0043] The carrier plate ensures a rigid mechanical connection between the first hollow cylinder portion and the second hollow cylinder portion. Preferably, the carrier plate is made of magnetically neutral material, which prevents magnet short circuits.

[0044] In a further advantageous embodiment of the apparatus, the first hollow cylinder portion and the second hollow cylinder portion are separated by a gap, wherein the size of the gap is preferably at least about 1 cm, and wherein the gap is preferably filled with a magnetically neutral material.

[0045] Separation of the first hollow cylinder portion and the second hollow cylinder portion by a gap with a specific size allows the change in magnetic flux over time to be adjusted as required. Preferably, the gap is filled with a magnetically neutral material in order to prevent magnet short circuits.

[0046] In a further advantageous embodiment of the apparatus, the apparatus further comprises two or more coils placed around or inside the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets, wherein the two or more coils are configured to receive a current and to thereby produce a related magnetic field that interacts with the magnetic field of the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets to form a motor system to rotate the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets about the longitudinal axis. Preferably, the frequency of the rotation can be varied in a programmable manner via the control module.

[0047] In such an embodiment, there is no need for a separate motor system that rotates the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets. This has the advantage that costs and size of the apparatus can be reduced. In particular, the design of the arrangement of magnets as hollow cylinder allows the two or more coils to be placed inside the arrangement of magnets and therefore to reduce the size of the apparatus even further.

[0048] In a further advantageous embodiment of the apparatus, the apparatus further comprises a, in particular magnetically neutral and non-electrically conducting, housing, wherein the housing is non-rotatable with respect to the rotation of the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets about the longitudinal axis.

[0049] The housing serves to protect the subject to be treated from the rotating hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets. The housing being magnetically neutral prevents magnet short circuits. The housing being non-electrically conducting prevents the generation of Ohmic heating.

[0050] In a further advantageous embodiment of the apparatus, the apparatus has a first treatment space in longitudinal direction above and below the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets and a second treatment space radially outwards from the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets. Preferably, the magnetic field strength of the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets at a distance of 6 cm within the first treatment space measured from an outer surface of the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets is at least about 5 mT, preferably at least about 10 mT, and / or the magnetic field strength of the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets at a distance of 6 cm within the second treatment space measured from an outer surface of the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets is at least about 5 mT, preferably at least about 10 mT.

[0051] The apparatus having a first treatment space and a second treatment space, allows a respective treatment effect to be achieved for different orientations of the apparatus with respect to a subject to be treated. As a preferred treatment space may be chosen the one in which the magnetic field strength is sufficiently high and in which the slope of the function B(2nft) is sufficiently steep even at the greatest possible distance from the apparatus.

[0052] The provision of a certain magnetic field strength at a specific distance within the first and / or the second treatment space ensures the effectiveness of a corresponding treatment since motor neurons to be reached are located at a specific distance under the skin of the subject to be treated.

[0053] In a further advantageous embodiment of the apparatus, the apparatus is further rotatable around a secondary rotation axis, wherein the secondary rotation axis is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets. Preferably, the apparatus is further translationally movable along a translation axis. Further preferably, the secondary rotation and the translational movement can be controlled in a programmable manner via the control module.

[0054] A rotation of the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets around a secondary rotation axis being perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets allows to gradually vary the magnetization direction and therefore ensure the electromagnetic induction into motor neurons being differently oriented within the body of a subject to be treated. A further translational movement of the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets along a translational axis furthermore allows to treat different body parts of a subject to be treated.

[0055] In a further advantageous embodiment of the apparatus, the apparatus has a diameter between about 10 cm and 50 cm, preferably between about 20 cm and 40 cm.

[0056] Due to the apparatus having a diameter between about 10 cm and 50 cm, preferably between about 20 cm and 40 cm, it is handy, compact, and portable and can therefore be used outside of medical or research facilities, e.g., at home.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0057] Further advantages and features will become apparent from the following description of exemplary embodiments referencing the figures. Shown therein at least partially schematically:Fig. 1A top view of a first embodiment of an apparatus for magnetic stimulation of neurons, in particular motor neurons and / or their attached nerve lines;Fig. 1B side view of a first embodiment of an apparatus for magnetic stimulation of neurons, in particular motor neurons and / or their attached nerve lines;Fig. 2A top view of a second embodiment of an apparatus for magnetic stimulation of neurons, in particular motor neurons and / or their attached nerve lines;Fig. 2B side view of a second embodiment of an apparatus for magnetic stimulation of neurons, in particular motor neurons and / or their attached nerve lines;Fig. 3 top view of a third embodiment of an apparatus for magnetic stimulation of neurons, in particular motor neurons and / or their attached nerve lines;Fig. 4 top view of a fourth embodiment of an apparatus for magnetic stimulation of neurons, in particular motor neurons and / or their attached nerve lines;Fig. 5A graph showing a simulation of the alternating magnetic field generated by an apparatus according to the embodiment shown in Fig. 3;Fig. 5B graph showing a simulation of the alternating magnetic field generated by an apparatus according to the embodiment shown in Fig. 4;Fig. 6 side view of a fifth embodiment of an apparatus for magnetic stimulation of neurons, in particular motor neurons and / or their attached nerve lines; andFig. 7 top view of a sixth embodiment of an apparatus for magnetic stimulation of neurons, in particular motor neurons and / or their attached nerve lines.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0058] In Fig. 1A, a first embodiment of an apparatus (5) for magnetic stimulation of neurons, in particular motor neurons and / or their attached nerve lines, viewed from the top is shown schematically.

[0059] The apparatus (5) shown in Fig. 1A comprises a hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets (10), which is formed by a first hollow cylinder portion (11) and a second hollow cylinder portion (12), which both have an at least substantially half hollow cylindrical shape. The hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets (10) comprises a cylindrical interior that does not contain the magnetic material of the magnets and that takes up a volume of more than half of the total volume of the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets (10). The first hollow cylinder portion (11) and the second hollow cylinder portion (12) each consist of a separate permanent magnet with its individual specific magnetization direction, wherein the magnetization direction of the first hollow cylinder portion (11) is opposite to the magnetization direction of the second hollow cylinder portion (12). The north poles are indicated by “N” and the south poles are indicated by “S”.

[0060] In this embodiment, the first hollow cylinder portion (11) and the second hollow cylinder portion (12) are each axially magnetized, i.e. , the magnetization direction is parallel to the normal of the plane of the sheet. The north pole of the first hollow cylinder portion (11) points out of the plane of the sheet and the south pole of the first hollow cylinder portion (11) points into the plane of the sheet, whereas the north pole of the second hollow cylinder portion (12) points into the plane of the sheet and the south pole of the second hollow cylinder portion (12) points out of the plane of the sheet.

[0061] The first hollow cylinder portion (11) and the second hollow cylinder portion (12) are encased on a carrier plate (60), which is designed as a flat disk. The carrier plate (60) ensures a rigid mechanical connection between the first hollow cylinder portion (11) and the second hollow cylinder portion (12). The first hollow cylinder portion (11) and the second hollow cylinder portion (12) together with the carrier plate (60) are supported by a shaft (not shown) that runs along the longitudinal axis (15) through the empty interior of the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets (10) and the carrier plate (60) and that enables a rotation of the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets (10) about its longitudinal axis (15). A direction of rotation is indicated by an arrow. However, a rotation in the opposite direction is also possible. The shaft is sufficiently strong and adequately supported so that precession forces can be withstood during rotation.

[0062] The first hollow cylinder portion (11) and the second hollow cylinder portion (12) are separated by a gap (70), with a size of at least 1 cm. Preferably, the carrier plate (60) and the gap (70) are made of a magnetically neutral material in order to prevent magnet short circuits. The apparatus (5) further comprises a housing (90) enclosing all components of the apparatus (5). The housing is non-rotatable with respect to the rotation of the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets (10) about the longitudinal axis (15) and serves to protect the subject to be treated from the rotating hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets (10). Preferably, the housing (90) is made of a magnetically neutral and non-electrically conducting material in order to prevent short circuits and Ohmic heating.

[0063] Skin together with a single motor neuron of a subject to be treated is shown schematically (not to scale) in the vicinity of the apparatus (5) in a second treatment space (102) radially outwards from the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets (10), where treatment by magneticstimulation can be applied to neurons, in particular motor neurons and / or their attached nerve lines.

[0064] Fig. 1 B shows the apparatus (5) from Fig. 1A in a side view. In Fig. 1 B, the axial magnetization of the first hollow cylinder portion (11) and the opposite axial magnetization of the second hollow cylinder position (12) become directly apparent. The north pole of the first hollow cylinder portion (11) points to the top of the apparatus (5) and the south pole of the first hollow cylinder portion (11) points to the bottom of the apparatus (5), whereas the north pole of the second hollow cylinder portion (12) points to the bottom of the apparatus (5) and the south pole of the second hollow cylinder portion (12) points to the top of the apparatus (5).

[0065] The apparatus (5) further comprises a motor system (20) that rotates the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets (10) about the longitudinal axis (15) as indicated by the arrow. The apparatus (5) further comprises a control module (25), wherein the frequency of rotation of the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets (10) through the motor system (20) can be varied in a programmable manner via the control module (25).

[0066] The first hollow cylinder portion (11) and the second hollow cylinder portion (12) are encased on a magnetically neutral carrier plate (60). The first hollow cylinder portion (11) and the second hollow cylinder portion (12) are furthermore separated by a gap (70), with a size of at least 1 cm which is entirely filled with magnetically neutral material. The hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets (10) together with the carrier plate (60) and the motor system (20) are enclosed by a magnetically neutral and non-electrically conducting housing (90), which is non-rotatable with respect to the rotation of the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets (10) about the longitudinal axis (15).

[0067] Skin together with a single motor neuron of a subject to be treated is shown schematically (not to scale) in the vicinity of the apparatus (5) in a first treatment space (101) above and below, in particular above, the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets (10), where treatment by magnetic stimulation can be applied to neurons, in particular motor neurons and / or their attached nerve lines.

[0068] Another skin together with a single motor neuron of a subject to be treated is shown schematically (not to scale) in the vicinity of the apparatus (5) in a second treatment space (102) radially outwards from the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets (10), where treatment by magnetic stimulation can be applied to neurons, in particular motor neurons and / or their attached nerve lines.

[0069] Due to the axial magnetization of both the first hollow cylinder portion (11) and the second hollow cylinder portion (12), in the first treatment space (101), magnetic field lines run parallel and perpendicular, mainly perpendicular, to the longitudinal axis (15) of the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets (10), whereas in the second treatment space (102), magnetic field lines run only parallel to the longitudinal axis (15) of the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets (10). Due to the particularly high density of magnetic flux at the front side of the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets (10), the preferred treatment space of the embodiment illustrated in Figs. 1A and 1B is the first treatment space (101) above and below, in particular above, the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets (10). In order to have the first treatment space (101) fully free of interfering components and spatially fully available for treatments, the apparatus (5) is preferably mounted only on one side, i.e., at the bottom of the apparatus (5).

[0070] The first hollow cylinder portion (11) and the second hollow cylinder portion (12) in the embodiment illustrated in Figs. 1A and 1B as well as in all further embodiments shown in the following may be made of rare earth magnets, preferably neodymium magnets. The motor system (20) of the embodiment illustrated in Figs. 1A and 1B as well as in all further embodiments shown in the following may be designed as an electric motor. Preferably, the frequency of rotation of the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets (10) through the motor system (20) can be lowered or increased continuously by the control module (25) in order to cover a range of different frequencies within short time. The control module (25) of the embodiment illustrated in Figs. 1A and 1 B as well as in all further embodiments shown in the following may be a self-standing device or, if desired, may be a portable handheld device orwearable, e.g., on an armband ora waistband, etc. Additionally, the motor system (20) may be connected to the control module (25) wirelessly eliminating the need for a wired connection. The interface for giving instructions to the control module (25) may be located directly on the control module (25) itself or the interface may be embodied as application executable on a personal device of the subject to be treated or of a physician who performs the treatment, e.g., on a smart phone.

[0071] In Fig. 2A, a second embodiment of an apparatus (5) for magnetic stimulation of neurons, in particular motor neurons and / or their attached nerve lines, viewed from the top is shown schematically.

[0072] The embodiment shown in Fig. 2A has some similarities with the embodiment shown in Figs. 1A and 1B. Again, the apparatus (5) comprises a hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets(10), which is formed by a first hollow cylinder portion (11) and a second hollow cylinder portion (12), which both have an at least substantially half hollow cylindrical shape. The hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets (10) comprises a cylindrical interior that does not contain the magnetic material of the magnets and that takes up a volume of more than half of the total volume of the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets (10). However, in this embodiment, the first hollow cylinder portion (11) and the second hollow cylinder portion (12) each consist of a separate permanent magnet with radial magnetization direction, i.e. , the magnetization direction shows radially outwards from or inwards to the longitudinal axis (15) of the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets (10). Again, the magnetization direction of the first hollow cylinder portion (11) is opposite to the magnetization direction of the second hollow cylinder portion (12). In the case of the embodiment shown in Fig. 2A, this means that the north pole of the first hollow cylinder portion(11) points radially outwards from the longitudinal axis (15) of the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets (10) and the south pole of the first hollow cylinder portion (11) points radially inwards to the longitudinal axis (15) of the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets (10), whereas the north pole of the second hollow cylinder portion (12) points radially inwards to the longitudinal axis (15) of the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets (10) and the south pole of the second hollow cylinder portion (12) points radially outwards from the longitudinal axis (15) of the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets (10).

[0073] The first hollow cylinder portion (11) and the second hollow cylinder portion (12) are again encased on a magnetically neutral carrier plate (60) with the shape of a flat disk. Analogously to the embodiment shown in Figs. 1A and 1B, rotation of the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets (10) about its longitudinal axis (15) is enabled by a shaft (not shown) that runs along the longitudinal axis (15) and that supports the first hollow cylinder portion (11) and the second hollow cylinder portion (12) together with the carrier plate (60). The gap (70) filled with magneticallyneutral material and the magnetically neutral and non-electrically conducting housing (90) are both designed in a similar manner as in the embodiment shown in Figs. 1A and 1B.

[0074] Fig. 2B shows the apparatus from Fig. 2A in a side view. In this perspective, only the north pole of the first hollow cylinder portion (11) and only the south pole of the second hollow cylinder portion (12) are visible since they are both pointing radially outwards from the longitudinal axis (15) of the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets (10). The south pole of the first hollow cylinder portion (11) and the north pole of the second hollow cylinder portion (12) are not visible since they are both pointing radially inwards to the longitudinal axis (15) of the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets (10).

[0075] Again, the apparatus (5) comprises a motor system (20), which is preferably located inside the housing (90), that rotates the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets (10) about the longitudinal axis (15), as indicated by the arrow, wherein the frequency of rotation of the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets (10) through the motor system (20) can be varied in a programmable manner via a control module (25).

[0076] In Figs. 2A and 2B, the first treatment space (101) and the second treatment space (102), where treatment by magnetic stimulation can be applied to neurons, in particular motor neurons and / or their attached nerve lines, are again illustrated by the skin together with a single motor neuron of a subject to be treated shown schematically (not to scale) in the vicinity of the apparatus (5).

[0077] Due to the radial magnetization of both the first hollow cylinder portion (11) and the second hollow cylinder portion (12), in both the first treatment space (101) and in the second treatment space (102), magnetic field lines run parallel and perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (15) of the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets (10). Due to the particularly high density of magnetic flux at the lateral surface of the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets (10), the preferred treatment space of the illustrated embodiment is the second treatment space (102) radially outwards from the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets (10). Since the preferred treatment space is not intersected by the longitudinal axis (15) along which the shaft runs that carries the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets (10) and the carrier plate (60), the apparatus shown inFigs. 2A and 2B can be mounted on two sides. Alternatively, it can be also mounted only on one side.

[0078] In Fig. 3, a third embodiment of an apparatus (5) for magnetic stimulation of neurons, in particular motor neurons and / or their attached nerve lines, viewed from the top is shown schematically.

[0079] The embodiment in Fig. 3 is similar in many aspects to the embodiment in Figs. 1A and 1B. Therefore, if not otherwise stated, properties and advantages of the embodiment from Figs. 1A and 1B apply analogously to the embodiment in Fig. 3. The apparatus (5) again comprises a hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets (10) formed by a first hollow cylinder portion (11) and a second hollow cylinder portion (12) that are axially magnetized in opposite direction. However, the embodiment in Fig. 3 differs from the embodiment in Figs. 1 A and 1 B in that the first hollow cylinder portion (11) is formed by a plurality of magnetic segments (51), which, in their entirety, have an at least substantially half hollow cylindrical shape, and the second hollow cylinder portion (12) is formed by a plurality of magnetic segments (52), which, in their entirety, have an at least substantially half hollow cylindrical shape. The magnetic segments (51) of the first hollow cylinder portion (11) and the magnetic segments (52) of the second hollow cylinder portion (12), individually, have a cylindrical shape, wherein the longitudinal axes of the magnetic segments(51) of the first hollow cylinder portion (11) and the longitudinal axes of the magnetic segments(52) of the second hollow cylinder portion (12) lie parallel to the longitudinal axis (15) of the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets (10). The magnetic segments (51) of the first hollow cylinder portion (11) are each uniformly axially magnetized with their north pole pointing out of the plane of the sheet (as illustrated by their black color) and their south pole pointing into the plane of the sheet. The magnetic segments (52) of the second hollow cylinder portion (11) are each uniformly axially magnetized with their north pole pointing into the plane of the sheet and their south pole pointing out of the plane of the sheet (as illustrated by their white color).

[0080] Again, the first hollow cylinder portion (11) and the second hollow cylinder portion (12) are encased on a magnetically neutral disk-shaped carrier plate (60). In this embodiment, the carrier plate (60) ensures, in particular, a rigid mechanical connection of the magnetic segments (51) of the first hollow cylinder portion (11) and of the magnetic segments (52) of the second hollow cylinder portion (12), which exhibit strong repulsive forces between each other due to theirrespective uniform direction of magnetization. The carrier plate (60) is designed in such a way that it is sufficiently strong to, simultaneously and permanently, withstand the static forces between the magnetic segments (51), the static forces between the magnetic segments (52) and the centrifugal forces from the rotation. The gap (70) filled with magnetically neutral material and the magnetically neutral and non-electrically conducting housing (90) are both designed in a similar manner as in the previously shown embodiments.

[0081] The first hollow cylinder portion (11) and the second hollow cylinder portion (12) from the embodiment shown in Fig. 3 may be designed as flat half rings that are at least substantially combined to form a circular disk. The magnetic segments (51) and the magnetic segments (52) may be commercially available disk-shaped neodymium magnets tightly packed together. In the shown embodiment, the first hollow cylinder portion (11) is formed by a single row of disk-shaped magnetic segments (51) and the second hollow cylinder portion (12) is formed by a single row of disk-shaped magnetic segments (52). The first hollow cylinder portions (11) may as well be formed by two or more rows of disk-shaped magnetic segments (51) and the second hollow cylinder portion (12) may as well be formed by two or more rows of disk-shaped magnetic segments (52), depending on the required density of magnetic flux or required temporal variation of the magnetic flux over time, respectively.

[0082] Due to the particularly large area of magnetic material facing radially outwards from the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets (10) and the associated particularly high density of magnetic flux at the lateral surface of the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets (10), the preferred treatment space of the illustrated embodiment is the second treatment space (102) radially outwards from the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets (10). Again, the apparatus shown in Fig. 3 and can be mounted on two sides. Alternatively, it can be also mounted only on one side.

[0083] In Fig. 4, a fourth embodiment of an apparatus (5) for magnetic stimulation of neurons, in particular motor neurons and / or their attached nerve lines, viewed from the top is shown schematically.

[0084] The embodiment from Fig. 4 is an extension of the embodiment from Fig. 3. Therefore, if not otherwise stated, properties and advantages of the embodiment from Fig. 3 apply analogouslyto the embodiment in Fig. 4. Again, the apparatus (5) comprises a hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets (10) formed by a first hollow cylinder portion (11) and a second hollow cylinder portion (12) being axially magnetized in opposite direction, wherein the first hollow cylinder portion (11) is formed by a plurality of magnetic segments (51) and the second hollow cylinder portion (12) is formed by a plurality of magnetic segments (52). The embodiment in Fig. 4 differs from the embodiment in Fig. 3 in that the wall thickness of the first hollow cylinder portion (11) in the vicinity of its two ends in tangential direction (31) is greater than the mean wall thickness of the first hollow cylinder portion (11) and that the wall thickness of the second hollow cylinder portion (12) in the vicinity of its two ends in tangential direction (32) is greater than the mean wall thickness of the second hollow cylinder portion (12). In the shown embodiment, this greater wall thickness is realized by a larger number of magnetic segments (51) radially inwards in the vicinity of the two ends in tangential direction (31) of the first hollow cylinder portion (11) and by a larger number of magnetic segments (52) radially inwards in the vicinity of the two ends in tangential direction (32) of the second hollow cylinder portion (12). Again, the preferred treatment space of the illustrated embodiment is the second treatment space (102) radially outwards from the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets (10). Again, the apparatus shown in Fig. 4 and can be mounted on two sides. Alternatively, it can be also mounted only on one side.

[0085] In Fig. 5A, a simulation of the alternating magnetic field generated by an apparatus (5) according to the embodiment shown in Fig. 3 is illustrated. In the graph in Fig. 5A, the angular position 2nft is shown on the x-axis and the magnetic flux density B is shown on the y-axis. The magnetic flux density B as a function of the angular position 2nft is shown for different distances from the apparatus (5), i.e., at the surface (500) as well as at a distance of 1 cm (501), 2 cm (502), 3 cm (503), 4 cm (504) and 5 cm (505), in the second treatment space (102), i.e., radially outwards from the center of the lateral surface of the apparatus (5). The magnetic flux density B corresponds to the flux density in vacuum.

[0086] In Fig. 5B, a corresponding graph illustrating the alternating magnetic field generated by an apparatus (5) according to the embodiment shown in Fig. 4 is depicted.

[0087] From Figs. 5A and 5B, the positive effect of increasing the wall thickness of the first hollow cylinder portion (11) in the vicinity of its two ends in tangential direction (31) and increasing the wall thickness of the second hollow cylinder portion (12) in the vicinity of its two ends in tangentialdirection (32) becomes directly apparent. The embodiment from Fig. 4 in comparison to the embodiment from Fig. 3: (i) has a higher absolute magnetic flux density B, (ii) shows a stronger change of the magnetic flux density B over time t (dB / df), i.e., a much steeper slope of the function B(2nf t), which, according to Faraday’s law, correspondence to a stronger induction effect and (iii) even at a distance of 5 cm from the apparatus (5), the relatively strong change of magnetic flux density B over time t (dB / df), i.e., the relatively steep slope of the function B(2Trf t), remains, whereas in the case of the embodiment from Fig. 3, the slope of the function B(2nft) with increasing distance from the apparatus (5) flattens out considerably stronger.

[0088] In Fig. 6, a fifth embodiment of an apparatus (5) for magnetic stimulation of neurons, in particular motor neurons and / or their attached nerve lines, viewed from the top is shown schematically.

[0089] The embodiment in Fig. 6 is an extension of the embodiment from Fig. 1. Therefore, if not otherwise stated, properties and advantages of the embodiment from Fig. 1 apply analogously to the embodiment in Fig. 6. In the embodiment in Fig. 6, the first hollow cylinder portion (11) and the second hollow cylinder portion (12) are oppositely axially magnetized, i.e., the north pole of the first hollow cylinder portion (11) points to the top of the apparatus (5) and the south pole of the first hollow cylinder portion (11) points to the bottom of the apparatus (5), whereas the north pole of the second hollow cylinder portion (12) points to the bottom of the apparatus (5) and the south pole of the second hollow cylinder portion (12) points to the top of the apparatus (5). The height of the first hollow cylinder portion (11) in the vicinity of its two ends in tangential direction (31) is greater than the mean height of the first hollow cylinder portion (11) and the height of the second hollow cylinder portion (12) in the vicinity of its two ends in tangential direction (32) is greater than the mean height of the second hollow cylinder portion (12). In the embodiment in Fig. 6, this greater height is realized by two first additional magnets (13) placed below the first hollow cylinder portion (11) in the vicinity of its two ends in tangential direction (31) and by two second additional magnets (14) placed below the second hollow cylinder portion (12) in the vicinity of its two ends in tangential direction (32). The two first additional magnets (13) have the same magnetization direction as the first hollow cylinder portion (11), i.e., the north pole of the two first additional magnets (13) point to the top of the apparatus (5) and the south pole of the two first additional magnets (13) point to the bottom of the apparatus (5). The two second additional magnets (14) have the same magnetization direction as the second hollow cylinder portion (12),i.e., the north pole of the two second additional magnets (14) point to the bottom of the apparatus (5) and the south pole of the two second additional magnets (14) point to the top of the apparatus (5).

[0090] The motor system (20), the control module (25), the magnetically neutral carrier plate (60), the gap (70) filled with magnetically neutral material and the magnetically neutral and non- electrically conducting housing (90) may all be designed in a similar manner as in the previously shown embodiments.

[0091] Due to the axial magnetization of both the first hollow cylinder portion (11) and the second hollow cylinder portion (12), the apparatus shown in Fig. 6 exhibits a high density of magnetic flux at the front side of the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets (10). Due to the two first additional magnets (13) placed below the first hollow cylinder portion (11) having the same magnetization direction as the first hollow cylinder portion (11) and due to the two second additional magnets (14) placed below the second hollow cylinder portion (12) having the same magnetization direction as the second hollow cylinder portion (12), the apparatus (5) furthermore exhibits a high density of magnetic flux at the lateral surface of the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets (10). Therefore, treatments with the apparatus shown in Fig. 6, can be carried out advantageously both in the first treatment space (101) and in the second treatment space (not shown).

[0092] In Fig. 7, a sixth embodiment of an apparatus (5) for magnetic stimulation of neurons, in particular motor neurons and / or their attached nerve lines, viewed from the top is shown schematically.

[0093] The embodiment from Fig. 7 is an extension of the embodiment from Fig. 1. Therefore, if not otherwise stated, properties and advantages of the embodiment from Fig. 1 apply analogously to the embodiment in Fig. 7. The apparatus (5) shown in Fig. 7 comprises a hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets (10) formed by a first hollow cylinder portion (11) and a second hollow cylinder portion (12), a magnetically neutral carrier plate (60), a gap (70) filled with magnetically neutral material and a magnetically neutral and non-electrically conducting housing (90) as in the previously shown embodiments. The apparatus (5) in Fig. 7 further comprises three coils (80) placed inside the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets (10). The three coils (80) areconfigured to receive a three-phase alternating current (81) and to thereby produce a related magnetic field. This magnetic field of the three coils (80) interacts with the magnetic field of the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets (10) to form an external rotor motor system with the three coils (80) forming the stator and the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets (10) forming the rotor that is rotated about the longitudinal axis (15). Preferably, the frequency of the rotation can be varied in a programmable manner via the control module (25).

[0094] The design of the arrangement of magnets (10) as hollow cylinder, in particular, allows the three coils (80) to be placed inside the arrangement of magnets (10) and therefore to reduce the size of the apparatus (5). Alternatively, the apparatus (5) may comprise only two or more than three coils (80). Further alternatively, the coils (80) may as well be placed outside of the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets (10) to form an inner rotor motor system. Further alternatively, the apparatus (5) may further comprise Hall sensors that provide position information of the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets (10) to the control module (25).

[0095] In the shown embodiment, the first hollow cylinder potion (11) and the second hollow cylinder portion (12) are oppositely axially magnetized, as in the case of the embodiment shown in Figs. 1A and 1B. Alternatively, the first hollow cylinder potion (11) and the second hollow cylinder portion (12) may be oppositely radially magnetized, as in the case of the embodiment shown in Figs. 2A and 2B. Further alternatively, the first hollow cylinder portion (11) may be formed by a plurality of magnetic segments (51) and the second hollow cylinder portion (12) may be formed by a plurality of magnetic segments (52), as in the case of the embodiments shown in Figs. 3 and 4.

[0096] The preferred treatment space of the embodiment shown in Fig. 7, may be chosen depending on the magnetization direction of the first hollow cylinder portion (11) and the second hollow cylinder portion (12), i.e., it may be the first treatment space (not shown) in case of a oppositely axially magnetization direction of the first hollow cylinder portion (11) and the second hollow cylinder portion (12) and it may be the second treatment space (102) in case of a oppositely radially magnetization direction of the first hollow cylinder portion (11) and the second hollow cylinder portion (12).

[0097] The above-described exemplary embodiments are merely examples which are in no way to be limiting of the scope of protection, the application or the configuration. Rather, the preceding description affords one skilled in the art a guideline for the implementation of at least one exemplary embodiment, whereby various modifications can be made, in particular, with regard to the function and arrangement of the described components, without departing from the protective scope resulting from the claims and equivalent combinations of features. In particular, individual exemplary embodiments may be combined with one another.

Claims

CLAIMS1. Apparatus (5) for magnetic stimulation of neurons, in particular motor neurons and / or their attached nerve lines, comprising a hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets (10), wherein the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets (10) is formed by a first hollow cylinder portion (11) and a second hollow cylinder portion (12) at least substantially enclosing a longitudinal axis (15) of the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets (10), wherein the first hollow cylinder portion (11) and the second hollow cylinder portion (12) are each magnetized, wherein the magnetization direction of the first hollow cylinder portion (11) is opposite to the magnetization direction of the second hollow cylinder portion (12), and wherein the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets (10) is rotatable about the longitudinal axis (15).2 Apparatus (5) according to claim 1 , further comprising a motor system (20) and a control module (25), wherein the control module (25) is configured to rotate the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets (10) via the motor system (20) with a frequency between about 2 Hz to 100 Hz, preferably with a frequency between about 10 Hz and 50 Hz, more preferably with a frequency between about 20 Hz and 30 Hz, most preferably with a frequency of about 25 Hz, wherein the frequency preferably can be varied in a programmable manner via the control module (25).3 Apparatus (5) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the wall thickness of the first hollow cylinder portion (11) in the vicinity of the two ends in tangential direction (31) of the first hollow cylinder portion (11) is greater than the mean wall thickness of the first hollow cylinder portion (11), and wherein the wall thickness of the second hollow cylinder portion (12) in the vicinity of the two ends in tangential direction (32) of the second hollow cylinder portion (12) is greater than the mean wall thickness of the second hollow cylinder portion (12); and / or wherein the height of the first hollow cylinder portion (11 ) in the vicinity of the two ends in tangential direction (31) of the first hollow cylinder portion (11) is greater than the mean height of the first hollow cylinder portion (11), and wherein the height of the second hollow cylinder portion (12) in the vicinity of the two ends in tangential direction (32) of the second hollow cylinder portion (12) is greater than the mean height of the second hollow cylinder portion (12).Apparatus (5) according to any of the previous claims, wherein the first hollow cylinder portion (11) and the second hollow cylinder portion (12) are each at least substantially axially magnetized, or wherein the first hollow cylinder portion (11) and the second hollow cylinder portion (12) are each at least substantially radially magnetized. Apparatus (5) according to any of the previous claims, wherein the first hollow cylinder portion (11) is formed by a plurality of magnetic segments (51), and wherein the second hollow cylinder portion (12) is formed by a plurality of magnetic segments (52). Apparatus (5) according to any of the previous claims, wherein the first hollow cylinder portion (11) and the second hollow cylinder portion (12) are encased in or on a, in particular magnetically neutral, carrier plate (60). Apparatus (5) according to any of the previous claims, wherein the first hollow cylinder portion (11) and the second hollow cylinder portion (12) are separated by a gap (70), wherein the size of the gap (70) is preferably at least about 1 cm, and wherein the gap (70) is preferably filled with a magnetically neutral material. Apparatus (5) according to any of the previous claims, further comprising two or more coils (80) placed around or inside the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets (10), wherein the two or more coils (80) are configured to receive a current (81) and to thereby produce a related magnetic field, wherein the magnetic field of the two or more coils (80) interacts with the magnetic field of the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets (10) to form a motor system to rotate the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets (10) about the longitudinal axis (15), and wherein the frequency of the rotation preferably can be varied in a programmable manner via the control module (25). Apparatus (5) according to any of the previous claims, further comprising a, in particular magnetically neutral and non-electrically conducting, housing (90), wherein the housing (90) isnon-rotatable with respect to the rotation of the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets (10) about the longitudinal axis (15).

10. Apparatus (5) according to claim 9, wherein the apparatus (5) has a first treatment space (101) in longitudinal direction above and below the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets (10), wherein the apparatus (5) has a second treatment space (102) radially outwards from the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets (10), wherein the magnetic field strength of the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets (10) at a distance of 6 cm within the first treatment space (101) measured from an outer surface of the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets (10) is at least about 5 mT, preferably at least about 10 mT, and / or wherein the magnetic field strength of the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets (10) at a distance of 6 cm within the second treatment space (102) measured from an outer surface of the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets (10) is at least about 5 mT, preferably at least about 10 mT11. Apparatus (5) according to any of the previous claims, wherein the apparatus (5) is further rotatable around a secondary rotation axis, wherein the secondary rotation axis is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (15) of the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets (10), wherein the apparatus (5) is further translationally movable along a translation axis, and wherein the secondary rotation and the translational movement preferably can be controlled in a programmable manner via the control module (25).

12. Apparatus (5) according to any of the previous claims, wherein the apparatus (5) has a diameter between about 10 cm and 50 cm, preferably between about 20 cm and 40 cm.

13. Non-therapeutical method for magnetic stimulation of neurons, in particular motor neurons and / or their attached nerve lines, with an apparatus (5) according to any of the previous claims.

14. Non-therapeutical method according to claim 13, wherein the hollow cylindrical arrangement of magnets (10) is rotated with a frequency between about 2 Hz to 100 Hz, preferably with a frequency between about 10 Hz and 50 Hz, more preferably with a frequency between about 20 Hz and 30 Hz, most preferably with a frequency of about 25 Hz.

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