Graphical Interface for Implantable Medical Device Programming
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for programming implantable medical devices, such as drug infusion and electrical stimulation devices, are labor-intensive and invasive, requiring significant effort to change therapeutic regimens and often involve complex data input for medical professionals.
Innovation Solution
A graphical user interface-based programmer that allows users to sketch and edit infusion programs using a pointing device, translating the sketches into therapy delivery schedules, enabling non-invasive programming of implantable medical devices through a computer-connected interface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional programming methods are used for implantable medical devices, then programming capability is achieved, but the process becomes labor-intensive and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical/data-entry-based programming interfaces with a graphical sketching interface. Medical professionals can sketch therapeutic patterns visually instead of manually inputting complex numerical parameters, thereby substituting a complex data input system with an intuitive graphical system that reduces both labor intensity and perceived complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates visual copies or representations of therapeutic patterns through graphical sketches. Instead of dealing with abstract numerical data, the interface allows users to create visual representations of infusion patterns that can be easily copied, modified, and stored, simplifying the programming process while maintaining full programming capability
2Manufacturing precision
If detailed parameter input is required for programming, then programming precision is achieved, but time consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary computational actions automatically based on the graphical sketch. When a user creates a visual representation of a therapeutic pattern, the system pre-calculates and prepares the underlying numerical parameters, dosing schedules, and infusion rates, so that precise programming is achieved without requiring the user to manually input each detailed parameter
Solution Approach 2:
The graphical sketch acts as an intermediary between the user's intent and the detailed numerical parameters. The sketch serves as a middle layer that captures the essential therapeutic pattern visually, while the system automatically translates this intermediate representation into precise numerical programming data, reducing both time and complexity
Data Source
AI summary
An implantable medical device is capable of delivering therapeutic output to a patient. A controller, programmable by a medical professional, is operatively coupled to the implantable medical device to, in part, program the therapeutic output to be delivered to the patient. The controller has an interface allowing the medical professional to graphically select an amount of the therapeutic output to be delivered to the patient in at least one of a series of discrete timer intervals. The graphic selection may be aided by the use of a light pen or other pointing device to sketch the infusion pattern. Computer programs using algorithms may be utilized to translate the information inputted through the light pen into an infusion program.