Amplitude-Modulated Ensemble Waveforms for Neurostimulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing transdermal electrical stimulation (TES) systems lack effective waveform design and delivery methods to specifically modulate cognitive states, often relying on rudimentary waveforms that are not universally effective across subjects.
Innovation Solution
The development of ensemble waveforms, which are complex compositions of sequential sub-components with varying waveform parameters such as peak current amplitude, frequency, duty cycle, and percent charge imbalance, designed to evoke specific cognitive effects like relaxation or energy, and can be adjusted by users for personalized intensity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If simple waveforms are used in TES systems, then device complexity is reduced, but the ability to specifically modulate cognitive states deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the waveform into multiple sequential components (first waveform, second waveform, third waveform) with different parameters. Each component serves a specific function: initial stimulation, cognitive modulation, and termination. This segmentation enables complex cognitive state modulation while keeping individual waveform components simple and manageable.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic waveform parameters that change over time. The waveform transitions from initial parameters to modified parameters during delivery, allowing the system to adapt to different cognitive states and subject responses. This dynamic adjustment enables versatile cognitive modulation without requiring multiple fixed waveform designs.
2Ease of operation
If standardized waveforms are used, then ease of operation is improved, but effectiveness across different subjects deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent modifies waveform parameters (frequency, amplitude, duty cycle) based on subject-specific factors such as age, cognitive state, and response to stimulation. The system adjusts parameters dynamically during delivery to optimize effectiveness for each individual while maintaining a standardized overall structure. This allows personalized effectiveness without complicating the basic operation.
3Reliability
If complex waveforms are delivered, then cognitive modulation efficacy is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The complex waveform is segmented into distinct temporal components with specific functions. The first waveform provides initial stimulation, the second waveform implements cognitive modulation, and the third waveform terminates stimulation. This segmentation allows the device to generate complex patterns through sequential simple waveforms, reducing overall generation complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses periodic or rhythmic patterns in the waveform delivery, particularly in the cognitive modulation phase. By using rhythmic alternation between different waveform parameters, the system achieves complex cognitive effects through repetitive simple patterns, reducing the computational complexity required for waveform generation.
4Adaptability or versatility
If waveform parameters are adjusted dynamically, then adaptability to subject responses is improved, but control system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms where the device monitors subject response to stimulation and adjusts waveform parameters accordingly. The control system receives input about subject response (e.g., cortical responses, behavioral indicators) and modifies subsequent waveform parameters to optimize cognitive modulation. This feedback approach enables adaptability while using straightforward control logic.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and apparatuses for amplitude modulation of all or a portion of an ensemble waveform to modify a user's cognitive state by transdermal electrical stimulation (TES). An ensemble current waveform may include a sequence of component biphasic current waveforms in which one or more parameters (such as frequency, current amplitude, percent duty cycle, and percent charge imbalance) vary between sequential component waveforms. These ensemble waveforms may be specifically configured to evoke a particular cognitive state when applied by TES. In particular, described herein are methods for applying amplitude modulation to all or a sub-set of the component waveforms in the ensemble waveform which may dramatically enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the TES. Also described herein are methods and apparatuses for applying amplitude modulation to all or a portion of an ensemble waveform without truncating pulses of the component waveforms forming the ensemble waveform.