Neurostimulation Device Charge Balancing Circuit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current neurostimulation technologies are either highly invasive or non-invasive but limited in mobility and therapeutic flexibility, with implantable devices restricted to AC stimulation due to charge build-up issues in DC mode, which limits their effectiveness in treating neurological disorders.
Innovation Solution
A minimally invasive implantable neurostimulation device capable of delivering user-defined combinations of AC and DC stimulation pulses, with a charge balancing system to safely operate in DC mode by discharging built-up loads at electrode interfaces, allowing for flexible adaptation of stimulation patterns and modes over time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If DC stimulation is used in implantable devices, then therapeutic effectiveness is improved, but charge build-up at electrode interfaces causes safety issues and device failure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic charge balancing cycles where DC stimulation is alternated with brief charge dissipation phases. The control circuit periodically switches electrode configurations to redistribute and dissipate accumulated charges, allowing sustained DC stimulation without dangerous charge build-up at electrode-tissue interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a charge balancing circuit as an intermediary system between the DC stimulation source and the electrode-tissue interface. This circuit actively monitors and manages charge accumulation, acting as a mediator that prevents harmful charge build-up while preserving the therapeutic benefits of DC stimulation.
2Ease of operation
If AC stimulation is used in implantable devices, then safe operation is maintained, but therapeutic flexibility and effectiveness are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal stimulation system that can deliver both AC and DC stimulation modes through the same implantable device. The control circuit enables selective switching between AC and DC modes, allowing the device to provide the safety of AC stimulation when needed and the therapeutic flexibility of DC stimulation when appropriate, making the system adaptable to various clinical requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic stimulation delivery where the device can switch between AC and DC modes based on therapeutic needs. The control system dynamically adjusts stimulation parameters including waveform type, amplitude, and duration, enabling adaptation to changing patient conditions while maintaining safe operation through integrated charge monitoring.
3Reliability
If invasive intracranial neurostimulation is used, then therapeutic effectiveness is improved, but patient risk and invasiveness increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes transcranial stimulation with carefully controlled electrical parameters to achieve therapeutic effects without invasive procedures. By optimizing stimulation parameters such as current density, pulse duration, and frequency, the system delivers effective neural modulation through the skull, eliminating surgical risks while maintaining therapeutic effectiveness.
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 safe and efficient treatment of neurological disorders by providing the option of DC stimulation, reducing risks associated with implantation and improving therapeutic outcomes by allowing for the use of both AC and DC modes, enhancing treatment flexibility and efficacy.
Implementation Method 1
charge build-ups at the electrode interfaces may impair the safe operation of DC devices
Data Source
AI summary
Neurostimulation is performed using electrical AC and/or DC stimulation pulses. Brain and/or spinal cord stimulation of a patient is achieved using an implanted neurostimulation device. Neurostimulation is performed using AC and/or DC stimulation pulses combined with a safe operation in DC mode by discharging build-up loads at the interfaces of the electrodes through short circuiting such stimulation electrodes with a counter electrode, for example a common ground electrode.