Brain Stimulation Electrode with Blocking Filter

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing brain stimulation systems face challenges in accurately detecting brain signals while preventing interference from minute electric currents used for stimulation, which can distort signal information and hinder precise analysis.

Innovation Solution

A brain stimulating system comprising a first electrode for supplying a minute electric current and a second electrode for detecting brain signals, with a blocking filter to prevent the minute electric current from interfering with signal detection, allowing for accurate analysis and control of stimulation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a minute electric current is supplied to stimulate the brain, then brain stimulation effect is achieved, but signal detection accuracy deteriorates due to current interference

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebrain stimulation effectivenessVSAvoidbrain signal detection accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The electrode is divided into two functionally independent parts: a first electrode for supplying stimulation current and a second electrode for detecting brain signals. This segmentation allows each electrode to perform its specific function without interference from the other, resolving the contradiction between stimulation effectiveness and signal detection accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

A blocking filter is introduced as an intermediary component in the signal detection path. This filter blocks the minute electric current from reaching the detection circuit while allowing brain signal frequencies to pass through, thereby eliminating current interference and improving signal detection accuracy without affecting stimulation effectiveness.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Device complexity

If electrodes are used for both stimulation and detection, then device complexity is reduced, but signal distortion occurs due to current interference

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelectrode configuration simplicityVSAvoidbrain signal information integrity
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The electrode system is segmented into dedicated stimulation and detection electrodes, eliminating the need for complex switching mechanisms required in single-electrode systems. This segmentation maintains device simplicity while ensuring signal integrity by preventing current interference at the source.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The blocking filter serves as an intermediary that preserves brain signal information by selectively blocking stimulation current frequencies while passing brain signal frequencies. This ensures complete information integrity without requiring complex signal processing or multiple electrode configurations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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

Enables precise detection and analysis of brain signals, ensuring optimal stimulation by blocking the minute electric current and preventing signal distortion, thus improving the accuracy and effectiveness of brain stimulation.

Implementation Method 1

the second electrode comprises a blocking filter configured to block the minute electric current

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrical filtering: Filter (electronic)

Implementation Method 2

a weak direct current is continuously applied through two touching electrodes on the scalp. This causes fine alterations in membrane potential and changes in firing rate of cortical nerve cells

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrical stimulation: Conduction (electrical)

Data Source

PatentUS9486629B2Brain stimulating system
Publication Date: 2016.11.08 Y BRAIN
  • US9486629B2 patent drawing
  • US9486629B2 patent drawing
  • US9486629B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A brain stimulating system is provided. In some embodiments, the system includes a first electrode configured to supply a minute electric current to stimulate a brain, and a second electrode configured to detect at least one brain signal received from a brain, wherein the second electrode includes a blocking filter configured to block the minute electric current.