Deep Brain Stimulation Antenna Arrays Using Temporal Interference
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing non-invasive brain stimulation techniques, such as TMS and TES, lack the spatial specificity and intensity to effectively target deep brain structures, and minimally invasive methods like DBS carry surgical risks.
Innovation Solution
Utilizing GHz frequency electromagnetic waves with temporally interfering antenna arrays to create focused electric fields that can be endocranially implanted, allowing for high focality and intensity without invasive surgery.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional non-invasive techniques (TMS/TES) are used, then patient safety is improved, but spatial specificity and stimulation intensity deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the brain into multiple target regions and uses separate antenna pairs for each region. Each antenna pair independently targets a specific deep brain structure, allowing precise spatial control without invasive procedures. This segmentation enables selective stimulation of multiple regions simultaneously with high spatial specificity.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from traditional electrode-based stimulation to electromagnetic wave-based stimulation, adding the dimension of wireless energy transmission. By using radio frequency electromagnetic waves that can penetrate the skull, the system achieves deep brain stimulation without physical intrusion, maintaining safety while improving spatial precision through controlled wave interference patterns.
2Reliability
If traditional non-invasive techniques (TMS/TES) are used, then patient safety is improved, but stimulation intensity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The invention combines the electromagnetic fields from two separate antenna pairs operating at slightly different frequencies. The constructive interference of these fields creates a focused region of high intensity at the target deep brain location, while the individual fields remain at safe intensity levels during transmission through the skull and brain tissue.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the frequency parameter by using two closely spaced radio frequency channels (e.g., 100 MHz and 100.1 MHz). This frequency separation enables the creation of a moving interference pattern that can be focused on deep brain targets, achieving high stimulation intensity through constructive interference while maintaining safe transmission levels through the skull.
3Measurement precision
If electrode implantation is performed, then spatial specificity is improved, but surgical complications worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces the mechanical electrode implantation system with an electromagnetic wave transmission system. Instead of physically inserting electrodes into the brain, the system uses radio frequency electromagnetic waves that can penetrate the skull and brain tissue to deliver stimulation energy wirelessly, eliminating surgical risks while maintaining spatial precision through controlled interference patterns.
4Length of stationary object
If high-frequency electric currents are used for deep stimulation, then stimulation depth is improved, but device size worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The invention uses a single antenna pair that can target multiple deep brain regions by adjusting the frequency separation and phase relationships. The same hardware configuration can stimulate different targets (e.g., subthalamic nucleus, globus pallidus, thalamus) by changing operational parameters, eliminating the need for multiple specialized devices for different brain regions.
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
Achieves focused and intense neural stimulation deep within the brain with a minimally invasive setup, overcoming signal attenuation and enabling portable, continuous treatment for neurological disorders.
Implementation Method 1
a first envelope signal at the target location, using the anatomical model, wherein the first envelope signal resulting from interference of the electromagnetic waves at the target location
Data Source
AI summary
A method for minimally invasive deep brain simulation (DBS) involves obtaining a target location for the DBS, obtaining an anatomical model, and simulatively determining, for a set of antennas endocranially implanted at first positions and emitting electromagnetic waves differing by a frequency offset, a first envelope signal at the target location, using the anatomical model. The first envelope signal resulting from interference of the electromagnetic waves at the target location has an envelope signal frequency corresponding to the frequency offset.