Trajectory-Based Deep-Brain sTMS Coil Array
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) techniques are limited in their ability to focus magnetic fields at depth in the brain, leading to ineffective treatment of deep brain structures due to the rapid fall-off of magnetic field strength with distance, which can result in superficial structure overload, discomfort, and risks such as seizures.
Innovation Solution
An array of coils is arranged in a specific configuration to combine magnetic fields in a manner that intensifies the magnetic field strength at deep targets while reducing it at superficial locations, using the radial components of the magnetic vectors to achieve a higher field intensity at depth without overwhelming superficial structures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the power input to the stimulating electromagnet is increased to deliver magnetic field to depth, then the magnetic field strength at deep locations is improved, but the magnetic field strength at superficial locations becomes excessively strong causing pain, seizures, and neural excitotoxicity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the stimulation system into multiple separate electromagnets positioned at different locations around the head. Each electromagnet can be independently controlled to deliver magnetic fields to specific deep brain targets while avoiding excessive field strength at superficial locations. This segmentation allows the system to achieve deep brain stimulation without the harmful effects of overly strong superficial fields that occur with single high-power electromagnets.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different stimulation parameters to different electromagnets in the array based on their specific positioning and the depth of their target structures. Each electromagnet is configured with appropriate power levels and pulse parameters localized to its specific target region, allowing optimized deep brain stimulation while protecting superficial structures from excessive field exposure.
2Device complexity
If a single electromagnet is used to stimulate deep brain structures, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ability to focus magnetic fields at depth is insufficient due to rapid field decay with distance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple electromagnets into a coordinated array that works together to deliver magnetic fields to deep brain structures. By merging the fields from multiple strategically positioned electromagnets, the system achieves sufficient field strength at deep targets while distributing the overall complexity across multiple simpler, independently controllable units rather than requiring a single complex high-power electromagnet.
3Ease of operation
If conventional TMS is used to treat deep brain structures, then the treatment is non-invasive, but the magnetic field cannot focus at depth leading to ineffective treatment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the stimulation field delivery into multiple controlled electromagnets that can be independently positioned and activated. This segmentation enables precise spatial control of magnetic field delivery to specific deep brain targets while maintaining the non-invasive characteristic of TMS, as the electromagnets remain outside the skull and can be positioned according to imaging-guided targets.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates imaging guidance (such as MRI) to identify precise target locations and uses this feedback information to position and configure the electromagnet array. This feedback mechanism enables accurate focusing of magnetic fields at deep locations by adjusting the electromagnet positions and parameters based on the individual patient's anatomical imaging, thereby achieving both non-invasive treatment and precise deep brain targeting.
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 allows for non-invasive, effective modulation of neural activity at deep brain locations, reducing the risk of seizures and discomfort, and providing a more targeted treatment for various neurological conditions without the invasive risks of deep brain stimulation.
Implementation Method 1
An array of coils is arranged in a specific configuration to combine magnetic fields in a manner that intensifies the magnetic field strength at deep targets while reducing it at superficial locations
Implementation Method 2
Magnetic fields stimulate neural tissue because electrical current flow is induced. See Davey, K. R., C. H. Cheng, et al. (1991). Prediction of magnetically induced electric fields in biologic tissue.
Implementation Method 3
using the radial components of the magnetic vectors to achieve a higher field intensity at depth without overwhelming superficial structures
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides for Stereotactic Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (sTMS) at predetermined locations with the brain or spinal cord and incorporates an array of electromagnets arranged in a specified configuration where selected coils in the array are pulsed simultaneously. Activation of foci demonstrated by functional MRI or other imaging techniques can be used to locate the neural region affected. Imaging techniques can also be utilized to determine the location of the designated targets.