Implantable Connection Terminal Detection Using Positioning Marks

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for connecting implanted ultrasound devices to a control unit are hindered by the difficulty in detecting the connection terminal due to factors like edema and thick scalp, leading to prolonged connection times and patient discomfort.

Innovation Solution

An implantable medical device with a positioning mark comprising light sources or electromagnetic resonant circuits to facilitate the detection of the connection terminal, allowing for precise localization using optical or electromagnetic methods.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If palpation through the patient's scalp is used to detect the connection terminal, then the detection method is simple, but the detection time is prolonged and patient discomfort increases due to edema and thick scalp

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetection method complexityVSAvoidconnection time
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces an intermediary substance (contrast agent) that is applied to the scalp surface to enhance the visibility of the connection terminal. This mediator allows the terminal to be detected more easily through optical or electromagnetic methods, resolving the contradiction between simple detection and prolonged connection time by adding a preparatory step that accelerates subsequent detection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the mechanical palpation method with optical or electromagnetic detection methods. By using light or electromagnetic fields to detect the connection terminal instead of manual palpation, the system overcomes the limitations of thick scalp and edema, significantly reducing detection time while maintaining simplicity through automated detection systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Reliability

If multiple insertion attempts are made to connect the needle to the terminal, then connection is eventually achieved, but patient discomfort increases and detection accuracy decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection reliabilityVSAvoidpatient discomfort
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the contrast agent application and enhanced detection method provide real-time information about the connection terminal's location and insertion depth. This feedback allows the operator to adjust the needle position immediately, achieving reliable connection on the first attempt and eliminating the need for multiple insertions that cause patient discomfort.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent performs preliminary actions by applying the contrast agent and conducting preliminary detection before needle insertion. This preliminary preparation ensures the connection terminal is accurately located and marked, allowing the needle to be inserted correctly on the first attempt, thereby improving connection reliability while minimizing patient discomfort from repeated insertions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Strength

If the connection terminal is deeply positioned under the scalp, then implantation is secure, but detection difficulty increases and connection time is prolonged

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimplantation securityVSAvoidterminal detection difficulty
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSDifficulty of detecting and measuring

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses a contrast agent as an intermediary substance that is applied to the scalp surface. This mediator creates an optical or electromagnetic pathway that allows the deeply positioned connection terminal to be detected from the external surface, resolving the contradiction between secure deep implantation and difficult detection by providing a transmission medium that bridges the depth gap.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent transitions from mechanical surface-level detection to optical or electromagnetic field-based detection that can penetrate through the scalp depth dimension. By using detection methods that operate in a different dimensional space (electromagnetic fields penetrating tissue depth), the system can locate deeply positioned terminals without compromising implantation security, as the detection occurs through rather than at the surface level.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

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

Reduces the time required for treatment sessions by enhancing the accuracy and speed of connecting the device to the control unit, minimizing patient discomfort and reducing the need for multiple insertion attempts.

Implementation Method 1

The positioning mark comprises at least two light sources, such as light-emitting diodes, each capable of emitting light radiation towards the outside of the upper face

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight emission from light-emitting diodes: Light Emitting Diode

Implementation Method 2

The positioning mark may further comprise at least one passive resonant electrical circuit

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic resonance: Resonance

Data Source

PatentEP4456981B1System for detecting a connection terminal
Publication Date: 2025.09.10 CARTHERA SAS
  • EP4456981B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4456981B1 patent drawingFigure 2~3
  • EP4456981B1 patent drawingFigure 4~5

AI summary

The invention relates to an apparatus for treating a pathology, comprising: - an implantable device (1) including an electrical connection terminal, - a remote control unit (2) for determining and controlling operating parameters of the implantable device (1), and delivering electricity thereto, - electrical connection means for electrically connecting the implantable device (1) to the control unit (2) via the electrical connection terminal, noteworthy in that the implantable device comprises a positioning indicator in order to facilitate detection of the position of the electrical connection terminal.