Ergonomic Applicator with Sensor Feedback for Focused Magnetic Stimulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electromagnetic stimulation devices for treating musculoskeletal issues and bone repair are limited in their ability to deliver consistent, uniform, and deep penetration of pulsed electromagnetic fields, often requiring skilled personnel and are not portable or comfortable for patients, especially when treating areas other than the back.
Innovation Solution
The development of an ergonomic applicator system with conductive coils configured to generate focused magnetic fields, equipped with sensors for real-time feedback to adjust the magnetic field intensity and direction, allowing for self-adjustment by patients and ensuring consistent therapy without habituation, and the use of microneedle patches for enhanced stimulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If electromagnetic stimulation devices are designed to deliver deep tissue penetration, then therapeutic effectiveness is improved, but device complexity and requirement for skilled personnel increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates sensors that automatically detect tissue characteristics and adjust stimulation parameters without requiring skilled personnel to manually assess or adjust settings. The system self-regulates the electromagnetic field delivery based on real-time feedback from the tissue being treated.
Solution Approach 2:
Sensors are integrated into the device to provide real-time feedback about tissue properties and stimulation response. This feedback loop allows the device to automatically adjust parameters to maintain optimal therapeutic effectiveness while simplifying operation.
2Ease of operation
If electromagnetic stimulation devices are designed for portability and patient comfort, then ease of operation is improved, but ability to deliver consistent and uniform pulsed electromagnetic fields deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates adjustable components that can dynamically adapt to different body contours and treatment areas. The applicator design allows for positioning adjustments while maintaining consistent field delivery through active parameter regulation based on sensor feedback.
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically adjusts electromagnetic field parameters such as frequency, amplitude, and pulse width based on sensor readings to maintain consistent and uniform field delivery across different body areas and patient positions, even as the device is moved or repositioned.
3Duration of action of moving object
If electromagnetic stimulation is applied continuously, then therapeutic effect is improved, but tissue habituation occurs reducing effectiveness
Solution Approach 1:
The device automatically implements periodic variation in stimulation parameters including on/off cycles, frequency modulation, and amplitude variation. This periodic action prevents tissue habituation by constantly changing the stimulation pattern while maintaining cumulative therapeutic benefits over extended treatment periods.
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 system provides a consistent, user-friendly, and adjustable method for delivering pulsed electromagnetic therapy, effectively treating chronic pain, osteoarthritis, and other musculoskeletal issues without the need for skilled operators, ensuring deep tissue penetration and comfort for patients.
Implementation Method 1
The concept of pulsed electromagnetic stimulation (PES) was first observed by the renowned scientist Michael Faraday in 1831. Faraday was able to demonstrate that time varying, or pulsed electromagnetic fields have the potential to induce current in a conductive object.
Implementation Method 2
This pulsed electromagnetic stimulus was able to induce the flow of current in a nearby electrically conductive body.
Data Source
AI summary
In certain variations, systems and/or methods for electromagnetic induction therapy are provided. One or more ergonomic or body contoured applicators may be included. The applicators include one or more conductive coils configured to generate an electromagnetic or magnetic field focused on a target nerve, muscle or other body tissues positioned in proximity to the coil. One or more sensors may be utilized to detect stimulation and to provide feedback about the efficacy of the applied electromagnetic induction therapy. A controller may be adjustable to vary a current through a coil to adjust the magnetic field focused upon the target nerve, muscle or other body tissues based on the feedback provide by a sensor or by a patient. In certain systems or methods, pulsed magnetic fields may be intermittently applied to a target nerve, muscle or tissue without causing habituation.