Neurostimulator Header Antenna Using the Case for Compact Wireless Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current implantable neurostimulation devices face challenges in constructing antennas due to biological environments and compact size requirements, necessitating improved construction techniques for ease of manufacturing and functionality.
Innovation Solution
The design of an implantable pulse generator (IPG) with a header that includes a cassette, an antenna coupled to the case for signal transmission, and an electrode attachment structure, along with a capacitor for electrical coupling, to enhance wireless communication and stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If traditional antenna construction methods are used in implantable devices, then antenna functionality can be achieved, but manufacturing complexity and difficulty increase due to biological environment constraints and compact size requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the antenna structure with the header housing by forming the antenna as an integrated component that couples directly to the case. The antenna is constructed using the case itself as part of the antenna structure, eliminating the need for separate antenna components and complex assembly procedures. This merging approach simplifies manufacturing while maintaining antenna functionality in the compact implantable device.
Solution Approach 2:
The case serves multiple functions: it houses the internal electronics and simultaneously acts as part of the antenna structure for wireless communication. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed, simplifying both construction and manufacturing processes while meeting the compact size requirements of implantable devices.
2Volume of moving object
If compact size is reduced to meet implantable device requirements, then device dimensions are suitable for implantation, but antenna construction becomes more difficult in the biological environment
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna structure is merged with the case housing, utilizing the case walls and structure as integral parts of the antenna. This eliminates the need for separate antenna components that would increase device volume, achieving compact dimensions suitable for implantation while maintaining antenna functionality through the integrated design.
3Reliability
If antenna system is made robust for reliable wireless communication, then signal transmission reliability improves, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The integration of the antenna with the case creates a structurally robust system where the antenna is supported by and coupled to the case structure. This merged design provides mechanical stability and reliable electrical coupling without requiring additional complex support structures or assembly procedures, maintaining reliability while simplifying the overall system.
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
The solution provides a robust and efficient antenna system for implantable neurostimulation devices, ensuring reliable electromagnetic signal transmission and ease of manufacturing, suitable for applications such as sacral nerve stimulation and other neuromodulation treatments.
Implementation Method 1
an antenna coupled to the case and electrically coupled to the case, the case configured as a part of the antenna for receiving and transmitting electromagnetic signals
Data Source
AI summary
An implantable pulse generator (IPG) including a case containing an energy storage device and one or more electrode leads. A header is coupled to the case. The header includes a cassette, an antenna coupled to the cassette and electrically coupled to the case, the case configured as a part of the antenna for receiving and transmitting electromagnetic signals, and an electrode attachment structure configured to couple with the cassette and configured to couple with the one or more electrode leads.