IPG Data Download Regulation via Periodic Intervals
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing implantable and wearable stimulation systems face potential communication conflicts between bedside monitors and patient remote controls, particularly when the bedside monitor is engaged in data download from an implantable pulse generator (IPG).
Innovation Solution
A system and method for regulating data downloads from an IPG, where an external device initiates data downloads in preset time periods, stops the download after the period expires, waits for a specified interval, and then resumes data downloads until all data is transferred. This system can include features like activity level measurement, communication via Bluetooth, and scheduling data downloads during periods of inactivity or when the patient is asleep.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the bedside monitor continuously downloads data from the IPG, then data transfer completeness is improved, but the IPG availability for receiving control signals from the remote control deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action by dividing continuous data download into discrete time periods with download intervals. The IPG alternates between data download mode and control signal reception mode, ensuring both data transfer completeness and availability for control signals are maintained through structured periodic operation cycles.
2Productivity
If the data download session is extended to transfer all data, then data transfer completeness is improved, but the response time to control signals from external devices deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the data transfer process into multiple time periods separated by download intervals. Each time period transfers a portion of data, and intervals allow the IPG to become available for control signals. This segmented approach ensures complete data transfer while maintaining responsiveness to external control devices.
3Productivity
If the IPG prioritizes data download operations, then data transfer efficiency is improved, but the system's responsiveness to patient control requests deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamics by making the IPG's operational state changeable between data download and control signal reception modes. The system dynamically switches priorities based on the operational phase, ensuring data transfer efficiency during download periods while maintaining ease of patient control during interval periods when the IPG is available for external communications.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for regulating data downloads from an implantable pulse generator (IPG) includes an IPG configured to download data, receive signals, and provide electrical stimulation, and an external device configured to initiate a data download from the IPG and to direct the IPG to download the data for a first time period. The IPG and/or external device is configured to stop the data download after the first time period has expired and to wait a first time interval during which no data is downloaded and the IPG is available to receive signals from any external control devices. The IPG and/or external device is configured to initiate an additional data download from the IPG to the external device for a second time period after the first time interval has expired, and to repeat the steps until all data has been downloaded from the IPG to the external device.