Interleaved Timing Channels for Simultaneous Electrode Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for optimizing electrode activation in implantable stimulator devices, such as spinal cord stimulation systems, are time-consuming and prone to erroneous results due to the need for incremental and sequential adjustments of electrode settings, which can lead to suboptimal or uncomfortable intermediary conditions for patients.
Innovation Solution
The use of multiple timing channels allows for simultaneous testing and adjustment of electrode conditions, enabling easier manipulation and reducing the risk of erroneous results by interleaving non-overlapping pulses to assess clinical effects independently and allowing time for recovery, facilitating the transition from initial to target settings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If incremental and sequential adjustments of electrode settings are used, then electrode optimization can be achieved, but the process becomes time-consuming and prone to erroneous results
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the electrode adjustment process into multiple independent timing channels, each capable of testing different electrode conditions simultaneously. This segmentation allows parallel evaluation of multiple electrode configurations rather than sequential adjustment, significantly reducing setup time while maintaining optimization accuracy through independent channel operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs periodic pulsing within each timing channel to test electrode conditions. By using periodic action with non-overlapping pulses across multiple channels, the system can systematically evaluate different electrode settings in a structured manner that reduces errors associated with continuous or incremental adjustment while maintaining comprehensive coverage of parameter space.
2Reliability
If incremental adjustments are made sequentially, then electrode settings can be optimized, but intermediary conditions may cause discomfort or erroneous results
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the adjustment process into separate timing channels that operate independently with non-overlapping pulses, the patent eliminates the need for uncomfortable intermediary conditions. Each channel can be optimized independently, allowing the system to transition directly between effective conditions without passing through potentially harmful intermediate states that occur during sequential incremental adjustment.
Solution Approach 2:
The timing channels act as intermediaries that mediate between different electrode conditions. Rather than directly transitioning between electrode settings (which creates uncomfortable intermediary states), the patent uses multiple timing channels as mediators to enable simultaneous testing and direct comparison of different conditions, eliminating harmful intermediary patient experiences.
3Productivity
If multiple electrode conditions are tested simultaneously, then adjustment time is reduced, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the stimulator system into multiple independent timing channels, each handling a specific electrode condition. This segmentation enables simultaneous testing of multiple conditions (improving productivity) while maintaining manageable complexity through modular, independent channel design. Each channel operates autonomously with its own pulsing sequence, reducing the need for complex inter-channel coordination.
Solution Approach 2:
By implementing periodic pulsing with non-overlapping sequences across timing channels, the patent manages system complexity through predictable, rhythmic operation. The periodic nature of the pulses creates a structured temporal pattern that simplifies control logic and reduces complexity compared to continuous or aperiodic multi-condition testing, while still enabling simultaneous evaluation of multiple electrode settings.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods using multiple timing channels for electrode adjustment during set up of an implanted stimulator device are disclosed. In one embodiment, at least two conditions of electrodes (i.e., electrode combinations, pulse widths, pulse frequencies, pulse amplitudes) can be “simultaneously” tested by providing each condition in its own timing channel. In a preferred embodiment, the pulses in each of the timing channels are interleaved and non-overlapping to preserve the ability of the patient to assess the therapeutic feel of both and to allow some time between pulses for recovery. As well as allowing two sets of electrode conditions to be gauged at the same time, the technique allows the electrode to be manipulated during set up with ease and with a reduced possibility of providing the patient with erroneous results. For example, the two conditions in the two timing channels can comprise initial and target final conditions, and transitioning between from one to the other during device set up is facilitated as compared to the prior art because concerns with electrodes having inconsistent properties in both conditions are alleviated.