IPG Header and Lead Coupling for Stable Optical Reflectometry

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current spinal cord stimulation systems face challenges in maintaining optimal electrode current due to changes in spinal cord position, leading to inadequate or excessive stimulation, and suffer from device longevity issues due to corrosion and tissue erosion, with inaccurate lead coupling and prolonged recharge times.

Innovation Solution

An improved implantable pulse generator (IPG) system using optical reflectometry to dynamically adjust electrode current based on spinal cord distance, featuring a non-metallic case for efficient charging, a super ellipse curve design for reduced erosion, and stable optical signal coupling through canted coil connectors and ceramic components for biocompatibility.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Duration of action of stationary object

If traditional metallic IPG cases are used, then device longevity is improved through corrosion resistance, but recharge time is prolonged due to inefficient electromagnetic coupling

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice longevityVSAvoidrecharge time
Core Design Contradiction:
Duration of action of stationary objectVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the traditional metallic IPG case with a non-metallic case (such as PEEK or other biocompatible polymers) to eliminate electromagnetic interference and improve wireless charging efficiency. This substitution allows for more effective electromagnetic coupling between the external charger and the internal coil, significantly reducing recharge time while maintaining device longevity through the use of corrosion-resistant non-metallic materials.

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

2Ease of manufacture

If conventional IPG designs are used, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but tissue erosion occurs due to sharp edges and corners

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemanufacturing simplicityVSAvoidtissue erosion
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies a super-ellipse curve design to the IPG case geometry, which features continuously curved surfaces without sharp edges or corners. This curvature eliminates stress concentration points that would otherwise cause tissue erosion and migration. The super-ellipse shape maintains manufacturing feasibility through modern molding techniques while completely eliminating the harmful sharp edges associated with conventional rectangular or cylindrical IPG designs.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #14Spheroidality (Curvature)

3Device complexity

If standard lead coupling methods are used, then device assembly is simplified, but optical signal accuracy deteriorates due to unstable coupling

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveassembly simplicityVSAvoidoptical signal accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a nested connector system where the lead connector is inserted into and secured within the IPG header connector. This nested arrangement provides stable mechanical coupling and precise optical alignment between the light source and photodetector components. The connector includes alignment features and securing mechanisms that maintain consistent optical coupling without requiring complex assembly procedures, thus preserving both assembly simplicity and optical signal accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

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

The system achieves consistent and effective pain relief by optimizing electrode current, extends device longevity through reduced corrosion and erosion, and shortens recharge times with continuous charging cycles, while ensuring accurate and stable optical signal transmission.

Implementation Method 1

An optical fiber is inserted into the lead and advanced into the IPG body until the distal end of the optical fiber is adjacent the light source

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectOptical signal transmission: Optical Fibre

Implementation Method 2

IPG device 510 comprises an external non-metallic case 507 which facilitates transmission of charging and communication signals

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS11890466B2IPG and header combination
Publication Date: 2024.02.06 WAVEGATE CORP
  • US11890466B2 patent drawing
  • US11890466B2 patent drawing
  • US11890466B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A percutaneous lead is provided which includes a generally tubular, multi-duct, flexible lead body. The lead body supports a distal set of electrodes and a proximal set of contacts which are connected by conductors in the ducts. The lead body further houses an optical fiber with a side firing section. The side firing section is held adjacent an optical transmission window, integrally formed with the flexible lead body. A cylindrical ferrule is provided to position the fiber in the header of an IPG.