Auricular Multi-Channel Neuromodulation for Sensory Biasing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing non-invasive neuromodulation therapies for disorders such as neurosensory disorders, anxiety, and depression have proven difficult to implement effectively, often using single-channel stimulation with limited frequency ranges and monophasic or biphasic symmetrical pulses.
Innovation Solution
The application of multi-channel sensory biasing signals, including electrical, thermal, and mechanical stimuli, to different regions of the ear canal and body, utilizing low-impedance compressible hydrogels and controllers to deliver biphasic pulsed signals at frequencies greater than 200 Hz and current densities above 2 mA/cm², with concurrent or sequential signal delivery.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If single-channel stimulation is used for non-invasive neuromodulation, then device complexity is reduced, but therapeutic effectiveness is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the stimulation system into multiple independent channels, each capable of delivering stimulation to different anatomical locations simultaneously. This segmentation allows complex multi-site neuromodulation therapy to be achieved while maintaining manageable system architecture through modular channel design.
Solution Approach 2:
The stimulation system is designed with multi-functional capability to deliver various waveforms (monophasic, biphasic, asymmetric, symmetric) across multiple channels simultaneously. This universality enables a single device to address multiple therapeutic targets and neural pathways, enhancing therapeutic effectiveness without requiring separate specialized devices.
2Use of energy by moving object
If low frequency stimulation (<200 Hz) is used, then energy consumption is reduced, but neural network modulation effectiveness is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic pulsed stimulation at frequencies greater than 200 Hz, utilizing repeated cycles of activation and deactivation. This periodic action at high frequency enables effective neural network modulation by synchronizing with neural oscillations, while the pulsed nature allows for energy management through controlled duty cycles.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts stimulation parameters including frequency, amplitude, and pulse width to optimize neural modulation effectiveness. By changing these parameters in response to therapeutic needs and energy availability, the system achieves effective high-frequency modulation while managing energy consumption through adaptive parameter selection.
3Reliability
If symmetric charge-balanced pulses are used, then safety is improved, but ability to modulate specific neural pathways is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates asymmetric pulse waveforms where the cathodic and anodic phases have different durations and amplitudes. This asymmetry enables selective activation of different neural fiber types and pathways by exploiting differences in neuronal excitability thresholds, while still maintaining overall charge balance for safety.
Solution Approach 2:
The stimulation system dynamically switches between different pulse configurations (symmetric and asymmetric) and waveform types (monophasic and biphasic) to adapt to specific therapeutic requirements. This dynamic capability allows optimization of neural pathway selectivity for different conditions while maintaining safety through controlled charge balancing.
4Reliability
If high current density (>2 mA/cm²) is delivered, then neural modulation effectiveness is improved, but risk of sensory sensation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs multi-channel stimulation that distributes current delivery across multiple localized sites. By targeting specific neural pathways through precisely positioned electrodes, the system achieves effective neural modulation at each site while distributing the overall sensory load, reducing the likelihood of conscious sensation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system delivers high current density stimulation in a controlled, partial manner through multiple channels rather than concentrating all energy in a single location. This distributed partial action achieves cumulative therapeutic effectiveness while keeping individual site sensations below conscious perception thresholds.
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 approach allows for effective non-invasive treatment of conditions like insomnia, anxiety, and tinnitus by modulating neural networks without conscious sensation, enhancing sleep, reducing disorder severity, and improving attention through targeted neural and vascular modulation.
Implementation Method 1
a first low-impedance and compressible hydrogel configured to fit into a first ear canal so that the hydrogel expands to contact a wall of the first ear canal
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and apparatuses are described for modulating multiple integrated neural networks to alter composite sensory processes, such as audition or hearing. These methods and apparatuses may be used for therapeutic and non-therapeutic uses, including enhancing entertainment and communication, by providing a cranio-cervical tuning apparatus worn in or around the outer ear or auricle. These methods and apparatuses may include functional neurosensory bias for neurosensory scrambling neuromodulation to influence composite or multi-modal sensory processes.