Implant Command Activation Using Proximity and Pressure Gating
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Solution Overview
Problem
Implanted medical devices that can be remotely activated by a command system not implanted in the patient's body are prone to unintentional activation due to accidental manipulation, leading to difficult situations for patients.
Innovation Solution
A command system comprising a first activation element triggered by proximity to an added activation element and a second activation element triggered by pressure, requiring simultaneous or successive triggering within a short time interval to intentionally activate the medical device, reducing unintentional commands.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a remote command system is used to activate the medical device, then the patient can control the device without manual intervention, but the device becomes prone to unintentional activation due to accidental manipulation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two distinct activation mechanisms (proximity-based first activation element and pressure-based second activation element) into a single command system. Both mechanisms must be triggered within a predetermined time interval to activate the medical device, creating a merged control system that reduces unintentional activation while maintaining ease of use.
Solution Approach 2:
The command system requires a preliminary proximity action (triggering the first activation element) before the pressure action (triggering the second activation element) can take effect. This preliminary action ensures that only when the user has intentionally approached and positioned the command system can subsequent pressure input activate the device, preventing accidental activation.
2Ease of operation
If a single activation element is used, then the device is simple to operate, but it cannot distinguish between intentional and accidental activation
Solution Approach 1:
The activation process is segmented into two distinct stages: first, proximity-based activation of the first activation element, and second, pressure-based activation of the second activation element. This segmentation allows the system to detect and verify intentional user actions while maintaining operational simplicity through a standardized two-step protocol.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a method and system 1) for remotely commanding a medical device (2) arranged to be implanted in a human or animal body, said command system comprising at least a first (4) and a second (5) activation element for commanding said medical device, said first activation element being arranged to be triggered by proximity to an added activation element (6), said second activation element being arranged to be triggered by pressure exerted on said second activation element, the command system being arranged to activate a command of the medical device upon triggering of the first and second activation elements.