Injectable Neural Stimulator Using Magnetic Field Concentration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing neural stimulation devices are either non-invasive but lack targeting and efficacy, invasive and unstable, or uncontrollable and unpredictable, necessitating a more precise and efficient method for neural modulation.
Innovation Solution
A wireless neuromodulation system using an external coil and injectable objects that concentrate magnetic fields to a targeted location, with a driver circuit for high voltage and fast pulses, allowing for miniaturization and adjustable stimulation parameters.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If non-invasive magnetic stimulation is used, then patient comfort and safety are improved, but targeting precision and stimulation efficacy deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the stimulation function into two separate components: an external magnetic field generator for non-invasive operation and an internal injectable concentrator for precise targeting. This segmentation allows each component to optimize its function independently while working together to resolve the contradiction between comfort and precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The injectable concentrator acts as an intermediary between the external magnetic field and the target neural tissue. It receives the non-invasive magnetic field from outside the body and concentrates it to a precise location, thereby translating the comfort of non-invasive stimulation into precise therapeutic effect.
2Measurement precision
If invasive wire stimulation is used, then targeting precision is improved, but device stability and reliability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system extracts the targeting function from the invasive wire and places it in the small injectable concentrator that can be precisely positioned and secured at the target site. The bulk of the stimulation system remains external, eliminating the instability caused by implanted wires while maintaining precise targeting through the localized injectable component.
3Reliability
If traditional stimulation devices are used, then therapeutic effect is improved, but device complexity and invasiveness worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The stimulation system is segmented into a simple external magnetic field generator and a minimal injectable concentrator, eliminating the need for complex implanted circuits, batteries, and control systems while maintaining therapeutic effectiveness through the focused magnetic field concentration at the target site.
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
Enables highly targeted, efficient, and flexible neural stimulation with reduced invasiveness, achieving therapeutic effects for various disorders without the drawbacks of existing methods.
Implementation Method 1
By Faraday's law of electromagnetics, these electric fields can be generated from changing magnetic fields, hence, the name 'magnetic stimulation'.
Implementation Method 2
A wireless neuromodulation system using an external coil and injectable objects that concentrate magnetic fields to a targeted location
Data Source
AI summary
Neural stimulator systems with an external magnetic coil to produce changing magnetic fields is applied outside the body, in conjunction with one or more tiny injectable objects that concentrates the induced electric or magnetic field to a highly-targeted location. These systems include a driver circuit for the magnetic coil that allows for high voltage and fast pulses in the coil, while requiring low-voltage power supply that may be powered by a wearable or portable external device, along with the coil and driver circuit.