Dual Controller System for Implantable Neurostimulator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional neurostimulator controllers for implantable devices are bulky, intimidating, and overwhelming, leading to suboptimal patient compliance due to excessive features, and existing chargers are large and infrequently used, necessitating a more discreet and user-friendly solution for daily management of neurostimulation therapy.
Innovation Solution
A dual controller system comprising a small, pocket-sized controller for daily use with limited functions and a separate, full-featured controller charger for periodic maintenance, incorporating advanced features and a graphical user interface for ease of use, providing redundancy and comfort for patients.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional neurostimulator controllers include many features and functions, then device capability is improved, but device complexity and patient overwhelm increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the controller into two distinct devices: a pocket-sized controller for daily use with limited functions (turning stimulation on/off, selecting programs, adjusting amplitude), and a larger charger-based controller for periodic use with advanced features (program frequency adjustment, pulse width control, individual pulse amplitude). This segmentation resolves the contradiction by assigning basic functions to the portable device and advanced functions to the charging device.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the charging function and advanced control features from the daily-use controller and places them in a separate charger-based controller. This allows the pocket controller to be minimized in size and complexity while maintaining essential therapeutic control capabilities.
2Ease of operation
If neurostimulator controllers are made smaller for portability, then ease of carrying is improved, but device functionality is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments functionality across two devices based on usage frequency and portability needs. The pocket controller contains only the most frequently used functions (stimulation control, program selection, amplitude adjustment), while less frequently used advanced functions (frequency adjustment, pulse width control) are placed in the charger-based controller.
Solution Approach 2:
The charger-based controller serves multiple purposes: it charges the implantable device battery and simultaneously provides access to advanced control functions. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction by combining charging and advanced controls in a single device that does not need to be portable.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a single controller provides all functions, then device versatility is improved, but device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the controller system into two size-appropriate devices. The pocket controller is minimized to contain only essential daily functions, making it portable and unobtrusive. The charger-based controller houses advanced functions and charging capabilities, accepting that it will remain at home and not require portability.
4Ease of operation
If controllers are kept simple for ease of use, then patient compliance is improved, but device capability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments control complexity across two devices. The pocket controller presents a simple interface for daily use, improving compliance by reducing cognitive load. The charger-based controller provides comprehensive therapy control capabilities for periodic adjustments by healthcare providers or knowledgeable patients.
Data Source
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Figure 1B
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AI summary
Devices, systems, and methods incorporate the most-used functions of a electrical stimulator's controller into a small, thin pocket controller that is not only comfortable to carry in a pocket, but can also be attached to a key ring, lanyard, or other such carrying device for ease of daily use. A separate patient controller charger is used to charge and control the implanted medical device.