Neurostimulation Module Synchronization via AC Power Signal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing implantable neurostimulation systems face challenges in synchronizing multiple modules, leading to potential errors in therapy delivery due to unsynchronization, which can result in unintended stimulation fields and reduced efficacy.
Innovation Solution
The system utilizes an AC power signal for synchronization between modules, allowing for efficient and reliable synchronization by monitoring the AC power signal's cycles to determine when therapy should be delivered or withheld, and checking for synchronicity during non-stimulation periods to correct any unsynchronization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If additional synchronization signals are used to maintain synchronicity between modules, then reliability of therapy delivery is improved, but power consumption increases and battery life decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The AC power signal is used for dual purposes: both to power the implantable module and to serve as a synchronization reference signal. By monitoring the cycles of the same AC power signal that provides electrical power, the system establishes synchronicity between modules without requiring separate synchronization signals, thereby eliminating additional power consumption for dedicated sync signaling while maintaining reliable therapy delivery.
2Reliability
If synchronization checking is performed continuously to ensure accurate therapy delivery, then reliability is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs synchronization checking periodically during non-stimulation periods by monitoring AC power signal cycles rather than continuously. The controller counts cycles of the AC power signal to determine expected therapy timing and checks synchronicity only during intervals when stimulation is not being delivered, reducing power consumption while maintaining adequate synchronization verification through periodic rather than continuous monitoring.
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure describes devices, systems, and techniques for checking synchronization between two or more modules of a system. In one example, a first module is configured to output a therapy, and a second module distinct from the first module is configured to receive an alternating current (AC) power signal from an AC power source, monitor a characteristic of the AC power signal, determine, based on the characteristic of the AC power signal, a period of time during which the first module is expected to one of output the therapy or refrain from outputting the therapy, and check, during the period of time, a synchronicity between the first module and the second module.