3D Orthogonal Coil Set for Neuromodulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current noninvasive neuromodulation techniques, such as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Transcranial Alternating Current Stimulation (tACS), face limitations in spatiotemporal control and precision due to fixed coil positions and restricted depth of stimulation, leading to inadequate control over brain and neural tissue responses.
Innovation Solution
A three-dimensional coil set with independently selectable currents for each coil, allowing for the creation of combined magnetic and electric fields in multiple directions, enabling precise control over electromagnetic field distribution through advanced phase and amplitude control, and the use of high-permeability materials for deeper penetration and reduced current requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If fixed coil positions are used in conventional TMS and tACS, then device simplicity is maintained, but spatiotemporal control precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides a single stimulation source into multiple independent coils (at least three coils per orthogonal direction), each capable of being independently controlled. This segmentation allows precise spatial targeting by activating specific coil combinations, while the modular architecture manages complexity through standardized control interfaces for each coil element.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from two-dimensional planar coil arrangements to three-dimensional orthogonal coil configurations. By adding the third spatial dimension with coils oriented along x, y, and z axes, the system achieves volumetric field control and enhanced spatiotemporal precision without proportionally increasing operational complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional single-direction coils are used, then device simplicity is maintained, but stimulation depth and versatility deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The orthogonal coil configuration creates a universal stimulation platform that can generate electromagnetic fields in multiple directions (x, y, z axes) and combine them to stimulate various brain regions. The same hardware infrastructure supports diverse stimulation protocols and targets, making the device adaptable to multiple clinical applications without requiring separate specialized equipment.
3Measurement precision
If independently controlled coils are implemented, then field control precision is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies local quality control by enabling independent activation of specific coils or coil combinations based on the required stimulation target. Rather than energizing all coils simultaneously, the controller selectively activates only the necessary coil elements, concentrating energy where needed and minimizing overall power consumption while maintaining precise field control.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution provides enhanced spatial and temporal control over neuromodulation, allowing for more precise stimulation of neural tissue, deeper penetration, and customization for individual patients, overcoming the limitations of existing technologies by enabling dynamic field steering and adaptive treatment.
Implementation Method 1
Each of the coil sets has three coils aligned to produce magnetic and electric fields in three different directions
Implementation Method 2
Each of the coil sets has three coils aligned to produce magnetic and electric fields in three different directions
Data Source
AI summary
A neuromodulator includes one or more coil sets. Each of the coil sets has three coils aligned to produce magnetic and electric fields in three different directions. A plurality of conductors couple the coils of the one or more coil sets to one or more input signals such that each of the coils is independently activated via an individually selectable current applied through the conductors. The individual activation creates a resultant field that is a combination of the magnetic and electric fields in three different directions for each of the coil sets.