Non-invasive Brain Stimulation Device with Adaptive tDCS-tACS Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current non-invasive brain stimulation devices, such as those using transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), face challenges including variable treatment effectiveness due to subject tension or stress, discomfort during treatment, and difficulties in maintaining electrode adhesion and continuous treatment schedules.
Innovation Solution
A non-invasive stimulation device and method that incorporates a helmet with multiple electrodes, a sensor module for biometric monitoring, and a control unit capable of automatically switching between tDCS and tACS based on detected abnormal states, such as increased resistance or biometric anomalies, to enhance treatment stability and effectiveness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If tDCS is used for brain stimulation, then treatment effect is achieved, but discomfort such as stinging pain occurs and subject tension increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic switching between tDCS and tACS modes during the treatment session. The control unit alternates between direct current stimulation and alternating current stimulation at predetermined intervals, allowing the subject to experience periodic variation in stimulation type. This periodic action reduces continuous discomfort and stress associated with prolonged tDCS while maintaining treatment effectiveness through alternating stimulation patterns.
2Duration of action of stationary object
If electrode adhesion is maintained during treatment, then treatment continuity is ensured, but treatment interruption occurs when adhesion decreases or abnormal states are detected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a sensor module that continuously monitors the subject's physiological state and electrode adhesion conditions during treatment. The control unit receives real-time feedback from the sensor module and automatically adjusts the treatment accordingly. When abnormal states or poor adhesion are detected, the system provides feedback to interrupt or modify the treatment, ensuring safety and maintaining treatment quality without unnecessary continuation of ineffective or harmful stimulation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic switching between different stimulation modes based on real-time treatment conditions. The control unit dynamically adjusts the treatment parameters by switching between tDCS and tACS modes according to the subject's physiological state and electrode adhesion status. This dynamic adaptation allows the treatment to continue effectively under varying conditions while automatically adjusting or interrupting when necessary, thereby maintaining treatment continuity and stability.
3Reliability
If periodic treatment is implemented for non-invasive treatment, then treatment effectiveness is increased, but practical implementation is limited to once or twice a day at hospital
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a portable stimulation device that subjects can use independently without requiring frequent hospital visits. The device includes all necessary components (electrodes, control unit, power supply) that can be operated by the subject themselves at home. This self-service capability enables subjects to perform treatment sessions multiple times per day in their own environment, significantly improving treatment accessibility and convenience while maintaining effectiveness through consistent periodic use.
4Reliability
If conventional electrical stimulation devices are used, then treatment can be applied, but it is too difficult for ordinary people to wear and position electrodes appropriately
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the electrode system into multiple independent electrode units that can be separately positioned and adjusted on the subject's head. Each electrode module can be independently placed on specific brain regions, allowing for flexible configuration and easier positioning by ordinary users. This segmentation reduces the complexity of positioning multiple electrodes simultaneously and enables subjects to perform self-positioning more effectively, improving overall ease of operation while maintaining treatment reliability.
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 device ensures safer and more effective brain stimulation by adapting to abnormal states, reducing discomfort, and maintaining treatment efficacy through automatic switching between tDCS and tACS, thereby enhancing the overall brain stimulation experience.
Implementation Method 1
at least one sensor module configured to sense biometric information of the subject wearing the helmet
Implementation Method 2
apply a direct current stimulation signal to at least one selected electrode in a transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) step
Implementation Method 3
provide an alternating current stimulation signal to at least one selected electrode in a transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) step
Implementation Method 4
a plurality of electrodes each including a patch configured to adhere to a head of a subject
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a non-invasive stimulation device and method, the device comprising: a helmet in which a plurality of electrodes each including a patch configured to come into close contact with the head of a subject are disposed; at least one sensor module for sensing biometric information of a subject wearing the helmet; and a control unit for applying a direct current stimulation signal to at least one selected electrode in a transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) step, providing an alternating current stimulation signal to at least one selected electrode in a transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) step, and automatically switching from the tDCS step to the tACS step when an abnormal state in which a resistance value of the electrode exceeds a reference value or the biometric information exceeds a normal range is detected.