Magnetic Stimulation Apparatus with Movable Shield
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current magnetic field treatment technologies, such as rTMS, require high current to generate low-frequency magnetic field pulses, leading to heat issues and inefficient targeting, while using permanent magnets results in a push-pull effect that limits performance and causes excessive wear on components.
Innovation Solution
A magnetic stimulation apparatus and method utilizing a permanent magnet with a movable magnetic shield that alternately exposes or shields target regions, allowing precise control over magnetic field exposure and reducing wear by using a moveable gap region to direct the magnetic field effectively.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If electromagnet is used to generate alternating magnetic field pulses, then magnetic field treatment can be achieved, but high current is required which generates significant heat
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the electromagnet (electrical system) with a permanent magnet combined with a movable magnetic shield (mechanical system). The permanent magnet generates a static magnetic field, and the magnetic shield's movement mechanically controls the alternating magnetic field exposure without requiring high current, thereby eliminating heat generation issues associated with electromagnets.
2Measurement precision
If electromagnet is used to generate alternating magnetic field pulses, then magnetic field treatment can be achieved, but the alternating magnetic field pulses are not easily directed to a particular location
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the magnetic field exposure into segmented regions by using a magnetic shield with gap regions. The shield can be positioned to expose specific target locations while shielding others, enabling precise directional control of the magnetic field without requiring a large or complex electromagnet system.
3Temperature
If moving permanent magnets are used to generate alternating magnetic field, then heat generation is reduced, but the magnets and their magnetic fields create a push-pull effect which limits performance and causes excessive wear
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a magnetic shield as an intermediary between the permanent magnet and the target region. Instead of moving the permanent magnet itself, the magnetic shield moves to control magnetic field exposure. This eliminates the push-pull effect between magnets while achieving the same alternating magnetic field effect, thereby reducing wear on mechanical components.
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
This approach enables efficient generation and directional application of alternating magnetic fields without the need for high currents, reducing heat and wear, while allowing for customizable magnetic field exposure patterns for therapeutic effects.
Implementation Method 1
a permanent magnet configured to generate a magnetic field
Implementation Method 2
a magnetic shield configured to shield at least a first target region from the magnetic field generated by the permanent magnet
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus and method configured to generate a magnetic field applied to a target location. The apparatus and method include a magnetic stimulation apparatus, including a permanent magnet configured to generate a magnetic field, and a magnetic shield configured to shield at least one target region from the magnetic field generated by the permanent magnet, wherein the magnetic shield includes at least one gap region configured to expose at least one other target region to the magnetic field generated by the permanent magnet. At least one gap region is moveable so that the shielded at least one target region is exposed to the magnetic field at the other target region.