Brain Implantable Device With On-Board Neural Processing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current implantable neuromodulation devices have limited recording and stimulation capabilities, and lack on-board processing to implement sophisticated models for transforming neural activity biomarkers into appropriate stimulation patterns, relying on subjective patient data and imperfect clinical interpretations.

Innovation Solution

A brain implantable device with intracranial electrodes, a deep brain stimulation system, and a pulse generator, featuring an input unit, switch, power conditioning, stimulation waveform generator, main logic board, and signal acquisition unit, allowing for enhanced detection of neural activity biomarkers and implementation of complex algorithms for neuromodulation therapy, with modes for traditional and advanced 'discovery' operations.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If current implantable neuromodulation devices are used, then the device structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the recording and stimulation capabilities are limited and lack on-board processing for sophisticated models

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverecording and stimulation capabilitiesVSAvoiddevice structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple functions (recording, stimulation, processing, and model implementation) into a single implantable device, combining the pulse generator with integrated circuitry for neural signal acquisition and sophisticated computational models, thereby enhancing adaptability without requiring multiple separate devices

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The implantable device is designed with multi-functionality, serving as both a recording device and a stimulation device with on-board processing capabilities. The device can implement sophisticated models and transform neural activity biomarkers into stimulation patterns, making it a universal solution for various neuromodulation applications

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If sophisticated models for transforming neural activity biomarkers are implemented, then treatment efficacy is improved, but on-board processing capability must be increased

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetreatment efficacyVSAvoidon-board processing
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSExtent of automation

Solution Approach 1:

The device performs self-service by incorporating on-board processing capability that automatically transforms neural activity biomarkers into stimulation patterns using sophisticated models. The device processes and interprets neural signals independently within the implant, reducing reliance on external processing and improving real-time treatment efficacy

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The device implements feedback mechanisms where neural activity biomarkers are continuously monitored, processed through sophisticated models, and used to generate appropriate stimulation patterns. This closed-loop feedback system enhances treatment reliability by dynamically adjusting stimulation based on real-time neural activity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Measurement precision

If neural activity biomarkers are monitored chronically, then objective data regarding disease burden is obtained, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveobjective data collectionVSAvoidprocessing capability
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts and focuses on specific neural activity biomarkers that are most relevant for measuring disease burden and treatment response. By selectively monitoring particular neural signals rather than all possible neural activity, the device achieves high measurement precision while managing processing requirements

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Data Source

PatentUS11684781B2Brain implantable device
Publication Date: 2023.06.27 BROWN UNIVERSITY
  • US11684781B2 patent drawing
  • US11684781B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A system includes intracranial electrodes embedded into a cranium, a deep brain stimulation system embedded into the cranium, a brain implantable device embedded into the cranium, and a pulse generator, the deep brain stimulation system and the brain implantable device linked to the intracranial electrodes and to the pulse generator.