Computational Field Mapping for Neurostimulation Electrodes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current neurostimulation systems face challenges in efficiently steering electrical current between electrodes due to limitations in navigation tables, which result in a large number of unrepresentable fractionalized electrode configurations, requiring substantial time and effort for lead development and reprogramming, and leading to inefficiencies in reconfiguring stimulation parameters.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that determine desired linear electrical parameter values at spatial points, select constituent current sources, and calculate their relative strengths to optimize electrical current distribution across electrodes, allowing for precise control of polarity and percentage of current, and optionally incorporating sub-threshold signals for electrode location determination.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If navigation tables are used to steer electrical current between electrodes, then current distribution can be controlled, but the number of representable fractionalized electrode configurations is limited, requiring substantial time and effort for lead development and reprogramming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/navigation table-based current steering system with a computational field mapping system. Instead of using pre-defined navigation tables that list discrete electrode configurations, the system uses computer code to calculate and map arbitrary electrical fields to electrode combinations, enabling continuous control rather than discrete steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the approach from fixed navigation table entries to parameter-based field mapping. By using computational models to calculate electrical fields based on adjustable parameters (current magnitude, electrode selection, polarity), the system can generate any desired field distribution without being constrained by pre-programmed tables.
2Productivity
If navigation tables are used for current steering, then electrode configurations can be selected, but reconfiguring stimulation parameters requires substantial reprogramming time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual navigation table navigation process with automated computational field mapping. The system uses computer code to automatically calculate and generate stimulation parameters based on desired field characteristics, eliminating the need for manual table lookup and programming.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service parameter configuration where users can define desired field characteristics and the system automatically generates the corresponding electrode combinations and current distributions through computational modeling, without requiring manual reprogramming.
3Adaptability or versatility
If navigation tables are used to define electrode configurations, then current distribution can be controlled, but the system lacks flexibility for arbitrary electrical fields
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the rigid navigation table structure with a flexible computational field mapping system. Instead of defining current distribution through fixed tables, the system uses computer code to calculate and map arbitrary electrical fields to electrode combinations, enabling continuous and adaptive control.
Solution Approach 2:
The computational field mapping system serves multiple functions: it can generate any electrical field configuration, adapt to different electrode arrays, and accommodate various stimulation goals. This universal approach replaces the need for multiple specialized navigation tables.
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 enables more efficient and flexible control of electrical stimulation, reducing the need for extensive navigation table development and reprogramming time, allowing for precise matching of desired electrical fields across various electrode configurations and lead positions, thereby improving the effectiveness and efficiency of neurostimulation therapy.
Implementation Method 1
modeling an electrical parameter (e.g., an electrical field) generated by the target current source poles at the target current source pole locations to determine the desired linear electrical parameter values at the spatial points
Data Source
AI summary
A method and system for stimulating tissue using a plurality of electrodes is provided. Desired electrical parameter (e.g., field potential) values are determined at a plurality of spatial points. A plurality of constituent current sources is selected at the locations of the electrodes. The relative strengths of the constituent current sources that, when combined, result in estimated electrical parameter (e.g., field potential)|values at the spatial points that best matches the desired electrical parameter values at the spatial points are determined. The polarity and percentage of electrical current to be associated with each of the electrodes is selected based on the determined strengths of the constituent current sources. Electrical current is conveyed through the plurality of electrodes in accordance with the selected electrical current magnitudes to stimulate the tissue.