Modular Multi-Locus TMS Coil Layout for Scalp-Conformal Targeting
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multi-locus transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) technologies are cumbersome and limited to stimulating 2-3 distant cortical targets, lacking flexibility and efficiency in targeting multiple cortical areas simultaneously.
Innovation Solution
A multi-locus TMS transducer with modular configurations of transducer modules, each comprising five or more coils, allowing for flexible and efficient stimulation of cortical areas by controlling the electric field's position and orientation across the scalp, minimizing gaps between the coils and the scalp, and utilizing three-dimensional winding geometries to enhance coverage and efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple bulky stimulators are used to stimulate 2-3 distant cortical targets, then multi-locus stimulation capability is achieved, but device complexity and operational difficulty increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple TMS stimulators into a single integrated transducer unit with multiple coils, allowing simultaneous stimulation of multiple cortical targets without requiring separate bulky devices. The transducer combines multiple coil windings in one compact structure that can be positioned on the scalp to stimulate different cortical locations concurrently.
Solution Approach 2:
The transducer is designed with multi-functionality to perform various TMS operations including single-locus and multi-locus stimulation, as well as sequential stimulation of different cortical areas. The same device can adapt to different stimulation requirements through electronic control of the multiple coils, eliminating the need for multiple specialized devices.
2Measurement precision
If a hand-held TMS coil is moved with optically guided navigation to stimulate cortical sites, then stimulation precision is achieved, but operational complexity and time consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The transducer is pre-configured with multiple coils positioned and oriented to target specific cortical locations identified from MRI images. The coil arrangement is designed in advance to match the planned stimulation sites, eliminating the need for real-time manual positioning and navigation during the procedure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical navigation system (hand-held coil movement with optical guidance) with an electronic control system. Multiple coils are electrically controlled to generate magnetic fields at predetermined locations, substituting mechanical positioning with electronic field control for simplified operation.
3Use of energy by moving object
If planar coils are used to provide optimal setup, then energy efficiency is improved, but the coils cannot fit on curved scalp surfaces creating gaps that drastically increase energy requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The transducer incorporates curved or flexible coil structures that can conform to the natural curvature of the scalp surface. This allows the coils to maintain close contact with the curved scalp geometry, eliminating gaps while preserving the energy-efficient planar coil design principles. The curved configuration enables better coupling between the coil and scalp without requiring excessive energy.
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 enables efficient, controllable multi-locus TMS with improved energy efficiency, allowing stimulation across extended cortical areas and overcoming limitations of existing technologies by providing two-dimensional and three-dimensional movement of the electric field maximum.
Implementation Method 1
Transcranial magnetic stimulation allows one to induce a focused electric field (E-field) in the brain by applying a strong, rapidly changing magnetic field
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a multi-locus TMS (transcranial magnetic stimulation) transducer, including one or more transducer modules configured (i.e., adapted) to be positioned on a scalp of a subject for TMS, each of the one or more transducer modules including five or more coils for TMS of a cortical target of a subject.