Modulated Neurostimulation Pulse Sequences for Reduced Accommodation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing neurostimulation therapies face inefficiencies in generating sophisticated signal patterns due to limitations in determining stimulation parameters, leading to reduced efficacy and increased side-effects over time.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for generating modulated pulse sequences by applying modulation functions to stimulation parameters, allowing conversion of tonic pulse sequences into patterned sequences that mimic natural nerve recruitment, thereby enhancing neurostimulation therapy effectiveness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If tonic pulse sequences are used for neurostimulation therapy, then the therapy can be delivered with simple parameter settings, but accommodation occurs over time reducing therapy efficacy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by transforming static tonic pulse sequences into dynamic modulated pulse sequences. The system varies stimulation parameters (amplitude, pulse width, frequency) over time using modulation functions, preventing neural accommodation while maintaining therapeutic efficacy. This is achieved through the pulse generator circuit that dynamically adjusts parameter values based on modulation waveforms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements periodic action through modulation functions that apply periodic variations to stimulation parameters. By superimposing modulation waveforms (sinusoidal, triangular, square) on the base tonic sequence, the system creates periodic parameter changes that prevent accommodation. The modulation period and depth are controllable to optimize therapy while avoiding tolerance development.
2Reliability
If sophisticated signal patterns are generated to prevent accommodation, then therapy efficacy is improved, but the complexity of determining stimulation parameters increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the complex task of generating sophisticated signal patterns into manageable components: a base tonic pulse sequence and separate modulation functions. Each modulation function controls specific parameters (amplitude, pulse width, frequency) independently. This modular approach simplifies programming while achieving complex therapeutic patterns that prevent accommodation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements universality through a multi-functional programming system that can generate various modulation patterns (sinusoidal, triangular, square, random) using a unified architecture. The same pulse generator circuit and programming interface handle both simple tonic sequences and complex modulated sequences, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining versatility.
3Use of energy by moving object
If modulation functions are applied to generate patterned sequences, then energy levels can be reduced while maintaining efficacy, but the programming complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by providing pre-configured modulation functions and parameter sets that can be selected through a user-friendly programming interface. Clinicians can choose from predefined modulation types and adjust key parameters without needing to calculate complex waveforms from scratch. This reduces programming complexity while enabling energy-efficient modulated patterns that maintain therapeutic efficacy.
Data Source
AI summary
An example of a system for delivering neurostimulation may include a programming control circuit and a user interface. The programming control circuit may be configured to generate stimulation parameters controlling delivery of the neurostimulation according to a pulse sequence. The pulse sequence may include a series of neurostimulation pulses and be defined by sequence parameters and one or more modulation functions each modulating an adjustable parameter selected from the sequence parameters. The user interface may be configured to set the pulse sequence to a tonic pulse sequence by determining an initial value for each adjustable parameter and set the pulse sequence to a modulated pulse sequence by selecting one or more adjustable parameters, determining a modulation function for each selected adjustable parameter, and applying the determined modulation function to that selected adjustable parameter to modulate the tonic pulse sequence.