Annular Nerve Stimulation System for Pain Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Hypodermic needle procedures cause pain, leading to patient anxiety due to the discomfort associated with injections, and existing nerve stimulation systems do not effectively address this issue.
Innovation Solution
A nerve stimulation system comprising an annular frame with a non-electrically conductive top surface and an electrically conductive bottom surface, an electrically conductive element, a power source, and a controller with a processor and memory element to switchably connect and disconnect the power source, reducing perceived pain by altering nerve signals to the spinal cord.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation is used to reduce pain, then pain perception is decreased, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into distinct functional segments: an annular frame with conductive and non-conductive surfaces, separate electrically conductive elements positioned in frame channels, a power source, and a controller. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently while simplifying the overall system architecture and making the device easier to manufacture and maintain.
Solution Approach 2:
The annular frame acts as an intermediary structure that positions the electrically conductive elements precisely over the dermis. The frame with its conductive bottom surface and insulating top surface serves as a mediator between the power source and the patient's skin, enabling controlled electrical stimulation while maintaining safety and comfort during hypodermic procedures.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If electrical stimuli are delivered through the annular frame to decrease pain, then pain relief is achieved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The controller delivers electrical stimuli in periodic pulses rather than continuous current. The power source is switchably connected and disconnected from the conductive elements, providing intermittent stimulation that effectively blocks pain signals while significantly reducing overall energy consumption compared to continuous stimulation.
Solution Approach 2:
Electrical stimulation is applied locally only to the specific area of the dermis where the frame aperture is positioned, rather than stimulating larger areas. This localized approach concentrates energy where it is most needed for pain relief during needle insertion, minimizing wasteful energy dissipation in surrounding tissues.
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
The system effectively decreases the perceived level of pain by delivering controlled electrical stimuli through the annular frame, thereby reducing discomfort during hypodermic needle injections.
Implementation Method 1
an electrically conductive element disposed in the annular frame channel... delivering controlled electrical stimuli through the annular frame
Implementation Method 2
Certain embodiments of systems which can perform transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation include electrodes which deliver electrical stimulus to a targeting portion of a patient's body
Data Source
AI summary
A nerve stimulation system including one or more of an annular frame, an electrically conductive element disposed in the annular frame, and a controller electrically coupled to the electrically conductive element and a power source.