Modular Implantable Optically Stimulating Module for Wavelength Tunability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing implantable illuminating devices for treating pathologies in living beings lack tunable wavelength illumination, compatibility with standard IPGs, and modularity for both optical and electrical stimulation, posing risks during brain implantation.
Innovation Solution
An optically stimulating module with a hermetic electronic unit, back-to-back luminous diodes, and continuous electrical links, allowing for modular integration and series connection with a dedicated electrical supply, enabling flexible wavelength adjustment and hybrid stimulation capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If implantable illuminating devices are designed with fixed wavelength light sources, then device simplicity is maintained, but wavelength tunability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The probe is divided into multiple identical optically stimulating modules connected in series, each capable of emitting light at specific wavelengths. This segmentation allows wavelength selection by activating specific modules while maintaining overall system simplicity through standardized modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
Each optically stimulating module is designed as a universal building block that can be replicated and connected in series to achieve multiple wavelengths. The standardized interface and identical architecture of each module enable wavelength tunability without requiring fundamentally different device designs for each wavelength.
2Adaptability or versatility
If custom IPG hardware modifications are made to achieve wavelength control, then wavelength tunability is achieved, but compatibility with standard IPGs is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The wavelength selection function is segmented from the IPG and transferred to the probe modules themselves. Each module contains the wavelength-determining light source, allowing the IPG to remain a standard, off-the-shelf device while achieving wavelength tunability through modular probe configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The optically stimulating modules act as intermediaries between the standard IPG and the tissue target. These modules translate the electrical signals from the standard IPG into wavelength-specific optical stimulation, enabling wavelength control without modifying the IPG hardware.
3Adaptability or versatility
If non-modular probe design is used, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but stimulation flexibility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The probe is segmented into identical, interchangeable optically stimulating modules that can be manufactured separately and assembled into complete probes. This modular approach enables stimulation flexibility through different module configurations while maintaining manufacturing simplicity through standardized production of individual modules.
Solution Approach 2:
Identical optically stimulating modules are nested in series within the probe structure, with each module containing standardized electrical and optical interfaces. This nesting arrangement allows flexible probe configurations to be built from the same basic module unit, balancing manufacturing efficiency with stimulation versatility.
4Device complexity
If electrical return line is shared across all modules, then device complexity is reduced, but electrical path management becomes challenging
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical return paths of all optically stimulating modules are merged into a single common return line. This consolidation reduces the total number of electrical conductors needed and simplifies the electrical architecture, while the standardized module interfaces maintain ease of connection and assembly.
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 solution minimizes medical risks during implantation by providing tunable wavelength illumination and modular compatibility with standard IPGs, enabling effective localized treatment of neurodegenerative diseases while allowing for both optical and electrical stimulation.
Implementation Method 1
comprising two luminous diodes connected back-to-back
Data Source
AI summary
An optically stimulating module to be integrated into a probe is implantable into a living being with a view to locally illuminating a region of said living being. The module includes a casing, and a hermetic electronic unit housed in the casing. The hermetic electronic unit includes two luminous diodes connected back-to-back, and at least two electrical contacts for connecting the module to an electrical power source.