Electrode Array Positioning Using 3D-to-2D Body Mapping

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Proper positioning of electrode arrays relative to each other and a target region can be difficult, especially when self-applied, diminishing the independence of the subject and requiring assistance from another person.

Innovation Solution

A method and system for generating an electronic 2-dimensional map from a 3-dimensional map indicating electrode array placement, using fiducials and visible markings on a substrate to facilitate accurate positioning of electrode arrays on a patient's body, allowing for self-application.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If electrode arrays are positioned using traditional methods without visual aids, then the placement process is simpler, but positioning accuracy and treatment effectiveness deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelectrode array positioning accuracyVSAvoidpositioning system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a visual copy (2D map) of the 3D body surface with electrode array positions, allowing patients to accurately transfer positioning information from the digital model to their actual bodies without requiring complex 3D measurement tools or professional assistance

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The patent converts 3D electrode array placement positions on the body surface into a 2D visual map representation, making the positioning information easier to understand and transfer while maintaining spatial relationships through projected geometry

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Measurement precision

If electrode arrays require professional assistance for positioning, then positioning accuracy improves, but patient independence and convenience deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelectrode array positioning accuracyVSAvoidpatient independence
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent enables patients to independently position their own electrode arrays by providing them with a visual 2D map that clearly shows where to place each array on their body, eliminating the need for professional assistance while maintaining positioning accuracy

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent pre-calculates and displays the optimal electrode array positions on a 2D map before the patient actually places the arrays, allowing the patient to plan and execute the positioning independently based on the pre-prepared visual guide

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Adaptability or versatility

If larger electrode arrays are used for torso applications, then treatment versatility improves, but positioning difficulty and required assistance increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetreatment application rangeVSAvoidpositioning ease
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent adapts the 3D to 2D mapping approach for different body regions including the torso, allowing larger electrode arrays to be positioned accurately by representing their 3D placement locations on a 2D map that preserves spatial relationships

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates a universal positioning system that works across different body regions (head, torso, etc.) and different array sizes by using a standardized 2D map representation that can accommodate various treatment configurations

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS12629534B2Apparatus and method for array positioning
Publication Date: 2026.05.19 NOVOCURE GMBH
  • US12629534B2 patent drawing
  • US12629534B2 patent drawing
  • US12629534B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method includes generating, from an electronic 3-dimensional map indicating placement locations of a plurality of electrode arrays, an electronic 2-dimensional map indicating placement locations of the plurality of electrode arrays relative to each other in 2-dimensional space. The electronic 3-dimensional map is associated with a surface area of at least a portion of a body of a patient. The electronic 3-dimensional map indicating the placement locations of the plurality of electrode arrays can be generated based on at least one medical image.