Neurostimulation Signal Reconstruction via Partial Pulse Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing stimulation technologies face challenges in optimally focusing stimulation within target areas, leading to unintended stimulation of adjacent tissues and increased risk of side effects.
Innovation Solution
The use of novel stimulation signals, including vector field signals and partial stimulation signals with specific spectral and temporal characteristics, to selectively stimulate target tissues while minimizing stimulation of non-target areas.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional stimulation signals are used to treat neurological disorders, then therapeutic effect is achieved, but stimulation spreads to adjacent areas causing side effects
Solution Approach 1:
The stimulation signal is divided into multiple frequency components (e.g., fundamental frequency and harmonic frequencies). Different electrode contacts are assigned different frequency components, allowing the stimulation field to be segmented spectrally. This enables selective stimulation of target areas while avoiding adjacent areas, as each frequency component can be independently controlled and targeted.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the stimulation field are assigned different frequency characteristics. The target area receives stimulation at specific frequencies (e.g., 6 Hz fundamental frequency), while adjacent areas receive different frequencies (e.g., 12 Hz, 18 Hz harmonics) that do not produce the same therapeutic effect, thereby localizing the therapeutic impact to the intended target.
2Use of energy by moving object
If high frequency carrier waves are used for energy transmission, then energy transmission efficiency improves, but stimulation of non-target tissue increases
Solution Approach 1:
The high frequency carrier wave is segmented into multiple frequency components (fundamental frequency and harmonics). Each component is transmitted through different electrode contacts with controlled amplitudes and phases. This segmentation allows the energy to be distributed selectively across different frequency bands, improving transmission efficiency while preventing uniform stimulation of non-target tissue.
Solution Approach 2:
The frequency parameters of the stimulation signal are dynamically adjusted based on the spatial location and target characteristics. By changing the frequency content (using fundamental and harmonic frequencies) and controlling the amplitude distribution across different frequency components, the system optimizes energy transmission to target tissue while minimizing effects on non-target tissue.
3Measurement precision
If multiple stimulation contacts are used to focus the field, then stimulation precision improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple electrode contacts serve multiple functions: they act as both stimulators and sensors. The same contacts that deliver stimulation signals also detect local neural activity and impedance changes. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate sensor electrodes, thereby reducing overall device complexity while maintaining precise stimulation control through the frequency-based differentiation method.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary characterization of the stimulation field distribution and tissue properties before actual therapy delivery. Impedance measurements and neural activity detection are conducted in advance to determine optimal stimulation parameters for each contact. This preliminary action enables automated parameter adjustment during therapy, reducing the need for complex real-time control 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
This approach enhances the precision of stimulation, reduces the occurrence of side effects, and improves the therapeutic efficacy of treatments for neurological and psychiatric disorders.
Implementation Method 1
implanted stimulators or external stimulation devices such as magnetic stimulators, which can induce currents in the brain or body of a patient
Data Source
AI summary
A system to configure a neurostimulation signal to a patient's body has a neurostimulator to create a base stimulation signal which has a series of first pulses. A computer processor within the neurostimulator deconstructs the first series of pulses into a first and second partial pulse series which have respective first and second partial electrical pulses where the first and second partial electrical pulses substantially summate to the base stimulation signal. A programmable signal generator provides a constant amplitude of combined stimulation pulses by applying the first and second partial pulses to a number of contacts of an electrode positionally located to stimulate a target tissue in the patient's body.