Portable Neurostimulation Assembly for Coordinated Multi-Region Therapy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing neurostimulation systems are limited by their inability to provide coordinated stimulation to multiple body regions, are cumbersome and difficult to use, and often cause discomfort due to stimulation-induced pain and muscle fatigue, requiring daily maintenance and adjustment.
Innovation Solution
A portable neurostimulation assembly that uses percutaneous or surface-mounted electrodes with a microprocessor-based electronics pod for selective stimulation, allowing wireless control and power management, and includes a disposable patch or carrier for ease of use and mobility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If surface electrodes are used for neurostimulation, then the device is easier to apply, but stimulation-induced pain and muscle fatigue increase
Solution Approach 1:
The neurostimulator is divided into multiple independent channels, each capable of stimulating different muscle groups or nerve regions separately. This segmentation allows for more precise control of stimulation parameters for each channel, reducing unwanted spread of stimulation and minimizing pain and muscle fatigue while maintaining ease of application.
2Ease of operation
If surface electrodes are used to stimulate deep muscles, then the device is simpler to use, but unwanted stimulation of superficial muscles occurs
Solution Approach 1:
Each electrode channel is configured with specific parameters (amplitude, pulse width, frequency) optimized for its target depth and location. The system provides locally tailored stimulation characteristics for each channel, enabling deep muscle stimulation while preventing unwanted activation of superficial muscles through precise parameter control rather than requiring complex device operation.
3Reliability
If existing neurostimulation systems are used, then single-region stimulation is achieved, but coordinated stimulation to multiple body regions is not possible
Solution Approach 1:
The neurostimulator incorporates multiple independent channels within a single device, each capable of stimulating different body regions. The channels can be programmed and controlled to work independently or in coordinated fashion, providing both reliable single-region stimulation and versatile multi-region coordinated therapy for comprehensive treatment options.
4Reliability
If traditional neurostimulation controllers are used, then dedicated stimulation function is provided, but the controllers are large and awkward to manipulate and transport
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple stimulation channels and control functions are merged into a single integrated portable unit. The device combines the stimulator, power source, and control interface in one compact package, maintaining reliable dedicated stimulation functionality while significantly improving portability and ease of manipulation compared to traditional separate controller systems.
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
Enables highly selective and comfortable neurostimulation with reduced patient burden, improving clinical acceptance and compliance by providing coordinated therapy to multiple regions without the need for frequent power source replacement or complex electrode placement.
Implementation Method 1
Neurostimulation, i.e., neuromuscular stimulation (the electrical excitation of nerves and/or muscle to directly elicit the contraction of muscles)
Data Source
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AI summary
Neurostimulation assemblies, systems, and methods make possible the providing of short-term therapy or diagnostic testing by providing electrical connections between muscles and/or nerves inside the body and stimulus generators and/or recording instruments mounted on the surface of the skin or carried outside the body. Neurostimulation assemblies, systems, and methods may include a carrier and an electronics pod, the electronics pod including stimulation generation circuitry and user interface components. A power source and/or flash memory may be incorporated in neurostimulation assembly and/or the return electrode. The assemblies, systems, and methods are adapted to provide coordinated neurostimulation to multiple regions of the body.