Elastic Head Positioning Device for Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing medical instrument positioning systems for transcranial magnetic stimulation are complex and require patients to remain immobile during adjustments, making it difficult for self-positioning and necessitating customized setups for each patient based on symptoms.
Innovation Solution
A head positioning device with holding portions, a neck rest, and a head back rest that allows patients to move their heads within a controlled range to align with imaging guidance, ensuring accurate positioning without the need for extensive adjustments or immobility, using a U-shaped configuration and elastic materials for comfort and accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a shell is fixed to the patient's head to position the coil, then the medical instrument can be held at a predetermined position, but a separate shell must be prepared for each patient or symptom, increasing device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by creating a single adjustable head positioning device that can accommodate multiple patients and symptoms. Instead of preparing separate shells for each patient, the device includes adjustable components (positioning members, supporting members) that can be configured to achieve accurate positioning for different head sizes and treatment requirements, making one device serve multiple functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from fixed, static shells to a dynamic positioning system. The positioning members and supporting members can be adjusted during use to accommodate different patients and treatment positions. The device allows for dynamic adjustment of the medical instrument's position relative to the patient's head, enabling accurate positioning without requiring multiple pre-made shells.
2Measurement precision
If measurement devices and markers are used to position the medical instrument, then the relative position can be achieved, but the patient's head must be kept immobile during adjustment, making self-positioning difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by enabling the patient to perform their own positioning. The device includes a display unit that shows the relative position between the medical instrument and the patient's head, allowing the patient to adjust their own position without requiring external assistance or complex measurement procedures. This eliminates the need for the head to be held immobile by another person during adjustment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies feedback by incorporating a display unit that provides real-time information about the relative position between the medical instrument and the patient's head. This feedback mechanism allows the patient to see their current position and make adjustments to achieve the correct alignment, eliminating the need for complex measurement devices and markers while enabling self-positioning.
3Measurement precision
If a three-dimensional measurement system with calculation circuits and actuators is used, then the medical instrument can be positioned on the measured configuration, but the system becomes significantly complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies taking out by extracting the essential positioning function from a complex three-dimensional measurement system. Instead of using full 3D measurement with calculation circuits and actuators, the device uses a simplified approach with supporting members that maintain a predetermined relationship between the medical instrument and the patient's head. This extracts only the necessary positioning capability while eliminating unnecessary complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies copying by using a simplified model approach. Rather than performing complex three-dimensional measurements and calculations, the device uses pre-determined geometric relationships and supporting members that replicate the necessary positioning. The display unit shows simplified position information that guides the patient without requiring complex measurement and calculation systems.
4Loss of energy
If the coil is disposed in close contact with the patient for energy efficiency, then energy loss is reduced, but the positioning system becomes more complex requiring customized shells
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by creating a single positioning device that can achieve close contact positioning for multiple patients and treatment positions. The adjustable supporting members and positioning members allow the medical instrument to be positioned in close contact with the patient's head without requiring separate customized shells for each patient, thus maintaining energy efficiency while avoiding increased complexity.
Data Source
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AI summary
Provided is an inexpensive device capable of accurately positioning a medical instrument relative to the head of a user. A head positioning device (7) is used. The head positioning device (7) is provided with: a pair of holding members (11, 12) which holds the face of a user from both sides by elasticity and prevents both the forward tilting of the user's head and the rotation of the neck; a neck rest (13) which comes into contact with the back side of the user's neck and determines the position of the neck in the front-rear direction; and a head-back rest (14) which comes into contact with the back of the head and which prevents the head from tilting backward.