Individualized Neuromodulation via Adaptive Feedback Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current neuromodulation devices apply fixed stimulation patterns, failing to optimize for individual user performance, skill level, and task-specific benefits, such as improved task performance, mood enhancement, and learning retention.

Innovation Solution

A system and method for individualizing neuromodulation, utilizing a neurostimulation device with electrodes and a user application that determines task-specific neuromodulation programs based on user feedback and progress, targeting optimal brain regions with adjustable stimulation patterns and schedules.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If fixed stimulation patterns are applied to all users, then device complexity is reduced and ease of operation is improved, but adaptability to individual users and tasks deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of operationVSAvoidadaptability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically adjusts stimulation parameters based on real-time user feedback and performance data. The stimulation pattern transitions from fixed to adaptive, allowing the device to optimize parameters such as frequency, amplitude, and pulse width according to individual user responses and task requirements, thereby resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and adaptability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system implements a feedback loop where user performance metrics and physiological responses are continuously monitored and used to adjust stimulation parameters. This closed-loop control enables the device to maintain optimal stimulation patterns for each user while keeping the interface simple, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and ease of operation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Adaptability or versatility

If individualized neuromodulation programs are created for each user and task, then adaptability and performance optimization are improved, but device complexity and processing requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveadaptabilityVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary assessments and baseline measurements during initial setup to pre-configurate stimulation parameters tailored to each user's anatomy and task requirements. This preliminary customization reduces the complexity of real-time adjustments while maintaining high adaptability during actual use

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system focuses adjustments on key stimulation parameters such as frequency, amplitude, and pulse duration rather than redesigning the entire stimulation mechanism. By optimizing specific parameters within existing hardware constraints, the system achieves individualization without proportionally increasing device complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Productivity

If stimulation patterns are optimized for specific tasks and skill levels, then user performance and learning retention are improved, but the time required for assessment and program customization increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveuser performanceVSAvoidmastery time
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system implements progressive customization where essential stimulation parameters are optimized first based on basic user characteristics, then refined over time as more performance data becomes available. This partial optimization approach delivers immediate performance benefits without requiring complete assessment and customization, reducing the initial time investment while maintaining productivity improvements

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

Data Source

PatentUS11992678B2System and method for individualizing neuromodulation
Publication Date: 2024.05.28 FLOW NEUROSCIENCE INC
  • US11992678B2 patent drawing
  • US11992678B2 patent drawing
  • US11992678B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A system for individualizing neuromodulation includes a neurostimulation device having a set of electrodes, and an application executing on a user device. Additionally or alternatively, the system can include any or all of: a sensor system, a head-securing mechanism, a remote server, storage, an accessory device, and any other suitable component. A method for individualizing neuromodulation includes determining a task of interest to a user; determining a user skill level associated with the task; determining a set of goals; determining an individualized neuromodulation program comprising a neurostimulation pattern; and delivering the neurostimulation pattern to the user. Additionally or alternatively, the method can include any or all of: determining user progress; displaying user progress; receiving user feedback; determining and/or adapting neuromodulation program based on user progress and/or user feedback; and any other suitable process.