External Antenna Positioning for Stable Implant Power Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current neuromodulation systems face challenges in achieving precise and efficient alignment between external and implanted devices for optimal energy transfer and therapy delivery, particularly in treating acute and chronic pain conditions and pelvic disorders, due to limitations in positioning and alignment technologies.
Innovation Solution
A neuromodulation system comprising an external device with an adjustable antenna configuration and a positioning device that includes a flexible, sliding strap mechanism and feedback elements to ensure optimal alignment and communication with an implanted device, utilizing sensors and adjustable harnesses for precise positioning and real-time adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a rigid belt with buckle is used to secure the external device, then alignment stability is improved, but patient comfort and ease of adjustment deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces rigid mechanical fastening with a dynamic elastic band system that automatically adapts to patient movement and body shape changes, maintaining alignment stability while providing continuous comfort and ease of adjustment without requiring manual intervention
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic band system is designed to self-adjust and maintain alignment through its elastic properties, automatically compensating for movement and positioning changes without requiring patient intervention or complex adjustment mechanisms
2Weight of moving object
If the external device is made lightweight for patient comfort, then ease of wear is improved, but positioning precision and alignment accuracy deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces heavy mechanical positioning and weighting systems with electronic sensors, processors, and control systems that provide precise alignment measurement and adjustment through software algorithms, achieving high positioning accuracy without adding mechanical weight
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses electronic parameter adjustment (sensor sensitivity, processing thresholds, control gains) to achieve precise positioning without requiring heavy mechanical components, allowing accurate alignment to be achieved through software-based parameter optimization rather than physical mass
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple adjustment mechanisms are added to improve positioning flexibility, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal electronic control system that performs multiple functions (sensing, processing, adjusting, verifying) through integrated software modules, providing comprehensive positioning flexibility without requiring separate mechanical adjustment mechanisms for each function
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces an electronic processing intermediary that mediates between simple sensors and the final positioning adjustments, using software algorithms to achieve complex adaptive positioning behavior without requiring complex mechanical intermediary components
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
Enhances the effectiveness of neuromodulation therapy by ensuring reliable power transfer and data communication between external and implanted devices, improving treatment outcomes for various pain and disorder conditions by maintaining optimal alignment and link integrity.
Implementation Method 1
an external antenna, wherein the external antenna transfers power to the implantable antenna
Data Source
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Figure 3
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AI summary
A stimulation system for a patient is provided. The system comprises: at least one implantable device comprising at least one implantable antenna; and an external device comprising at least one external antenna, wherein the at least one external antenna transfers power to the at least one implantable antenna. The at least one implantable device delivers therapy to the patient. A patient attachment device or body covering positions the at least one external antenna relative to the patient.