Implantable Neural Control Device Synchronization via Wired Bus
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current neural stimulation devices are limited in their ability to coordinate and synchronize multiple electrodes implanted in the human body, failing to achieve complex functions like deambulatory movement due to constraints such as antenna limitations and the need for major surgery for centralization, and lack the capability to manage interactions between different nerves and muscles.
Innovation Solution
An implantable control device with a control unit connected to electrodes, featuring a timing clock, memory for configuration and program data, and a sequencer for activating electric pulses, allowing for asynchronous operation and synchronization of neural stimulation devices via a bus network, enabling coordinated stimulation and measurement across multiple electrodes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If extracorporeal means are used for synchronizing implanted devices, then device communication is enabled, but antenna constraints prevent meeting time accuracy requirements of less than 1 millisecond
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a centralized control unit as an intermediary that receives timing signals from an external source and distributes them to multiple implanted devices through wired connections. This mediator approach eliminates the need for complex antenna systems while achieving precise synchronization, as the control unit acts as a timing reference point for all devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the electromagnetic antenna-based synchronization system with a wired electrical signal transmission system. By using physical electrical connections instead of wireless electromagnetic fields, the system achieves more reliable and accurate timing signal transmission without the constraints of antenna coverage and induction.
2Reliability
If centralization of the whole of the activities of implants is implemented, then coordinated stimulation is achieved, but major surgery is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the control system into multiple independent implanted devices, each with its own electrode configuration and control capabilities. These segmented devices can be implanted at different locations and times, with each device maintaining independence while communicating with the centralized control unit through standard wired interfaces, eliminating the need for major surgery.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal control unit that can interface with multiple different types of implanted devices through standardized protocols. This universal interface allows the same control unit to manage diverse electrode configurations and stimulation parameters without requiring device-specific integration surgery, enabling incremental implantation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If independent devices are used, then incremental implantation is enabled, but coordinated stimulation and measurement across multiple electrodes is not possible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the centralized control unit receives status and performance information from all implanted devices and adjusts timing signals accordingly. This feedback loop enables coordinated stimulation across multiple electrodes while maintaining the ability to independently implant and configure each device, as the control unit adapts to the specific configuration of each implanted device.
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 solution enables precise and coordinated neural stimulation with microsecond accuracy, allowing for complex functions like deambulatory movement, while minimizing the need for surgery and supporting incremental implantation, thus improving the management of motor and sensory activities.
Implementation Method 1
synchronization of neural stimulation devices via a bus network
Implementation Method 2
an executor activatable in order to send to said or each electrode, electric pulses corresponding to a given program according to a given electrode configuration
Data Source
AI summary
A control device implantable in a human body—includes a control unit and at least one electrode, said control unit being connected to each electrode to control stimulation and/or measurement thereof. The control unit includes: a timing dock; a memory storing configuration data defined to enable configuration of each electrode correlated with identifiers; a memory storing program data describing a time profile correlated with identifiers; an executor activatable to send each electrode electric pulses corresponding to a predetermined program according to a predetermined electrode configuration, according to the clock; a sequencer arranged to receive an ordered plurality of pairs, each including an electrode configuration identifier and a program identifier, and selectively to activate the executor with the electrode and program configuration pairs denoted by the pairs of identifiers received as an input, according to the order thereof and the clock.