Neurostimulation Pulse Generator Active Charge Balancing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing neural stimulators for spinal cord stimulation are limited to simple waveform shapes, which restrict the therapeutic benefits and increase energy consumption, and they require bulky DC blocking capacitors for charge balancing, compromising device size and safety.
Innovation Solution
A flexible neurostimulation pulse generator using digital waveform synthesis techniques to generate programmable waveforms with arbitrary shapes, eliminating the need for DC blocking capacitors through active charge balancing and allowing for scalable pulsewidths and amplitudes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If DC blocking capacitors are used for charge balancing, then safety is improved, but device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and removes the DC blocking capacitors from the stimulator circuitry by implementing active charge balancing through software control of the waveform parameters. The charge balancing function is separated from passive hardware components and implemented through active digital control, eliminating the need for bulky capacitor components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the approach from passive charge balancing (using fixed capacitor values) to active charge balancing by dynamically adjusting waveform parameters such as amplitude, pulse width, and phase duration. This allows the system to achieve charge balance through parameter modulation rather than fixed hardware components.
2Device complexity
If simple waveform shapes are used, then device complexity is reduced, but therapeutic benefit decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic waveform generation where the stimulator can produce arbitrary waveform shapes that are configurable and adjustable. Instead of being limited to fixed simple waveforms, the system dynamically generates complex waveforms with variable parameters including amplitude, duration, and shape, allowing optimization for different therapeutic applications.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal waveform generation system that can produce multiple waveform types (rectangular, triangular, sinusoidal, and arbitrary shapes) through a single programmable platform. This multi-functional approach replaces the need for multiple dedicated circuitry designs for different waveform types.
3Reliability
If complex waveforms are generated, then therapeutic benefit increases, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback-based charge balancing where the system monitors the charge delivered during the stimulation phase and automatically adjusts the recharge phase parameters to achieve net zero charge. This closed-loop control ensures that complex waveforms can be delivered without accumulating charge that would require additional energy for balancing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent optimizes energy consumption by dynamically adjusting waveform parameters such as pulse width, amplitude, and phase duration to achieve the minimum effective stimulation dose. The system can modify parameters in real-time to balance therapeutic efficacy with energy conservation, extending battery life.
4Device complexity
If fixed waveform parameters are used, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the waveform generation system from static (fixed parameters) to dynamic (adjustable parameters). The stimulator allows real-time modification of waveform characteristics including shape, amplitude, pulse width, and frequency, enabling adaptation to different patient needs and therapeutic conditions without hardware changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal control platform that can generate various waveform types and configurations through software programming. This single system replaces multiple dedicated devices, providing versatility in waveform generation while maintaining relatively simple hardware architecture.
Data Source
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Figure 2
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AI summary
A device and/or system for generating arbitrary waveforms of a desired shape that can be used for generating a stimulation pulse for medical purposes such as for spinal cord stimulation therapy, where such arbitrary waveforms can also be used for charge balancing purposes.