Micro Stimulation Device for Ocular Treatment with Adjustable Current
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current micro stimulation devices are limited in scope and accessibility, primarily used in professional healthcare settings, and lack the capability to provide variable treatment options for ocular conditions such as macular degeneration and other eye disorders, necessitating a more convenient and adaptable solution for at-home use.
Innovation Solution
A portable micro stimulation device with a current generator capable of producing adjustable microcurrents (250 μA to 1500 μA) and customizable treatment periods (10-30 minutes), featuring user-controlled interfaces and electrodes for safe and effective ocular treatment, allowing for precise neural stimulation at home.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If micro stimulation devices are used in professional healthcare settings with single-amplitude current output, then treatment reliability is maintained, but device adaptability and ease of operation are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates multiple selectable current amplitudes (250 μA, 500 μA, 750 μA, 1000 μA, 1250 μA, 1500 μA) and treatment periods (10, 20, 30 minutes) that can be dynamically adjusted through user input controls, allowing the system to adapt to different treatment requirements while maintaining operational simplicity through automated control
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements variable treatment parameters including multiple current amplitude levels and treatment duration options, enabling the device to accommodate different ocular conditions and patient needs without increasing operational complexity through automated parameter selection and control
2Adaptability or versatility
If micro stimulation devices provide multiple power levels and treatment options, then treatment adaptability improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device includes automated control features where the control unit automatically determines and executes the selected treatment parameters from user input, reducing the operational burden on non-medical professionals while providing access to multiple treatment options through a simplified interface
Solution Approach 2:
The device incorporates a display with graphical user interface that provides visual feedback on selected power levels and treatment periods, allowing users to confirm their selections and understand device status, thereby simplifying operation while maintaining treatment versatility
3Ease of operation
If micro stimulation devices are designed for professional use only, then treatment reliability is maintained, but accessibility and ease of operation for non-professionals deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The device is designed for self-administration at home with automated control features that eliminate the need for professional operation, while maintaining treatment safety through pre-programmed parameter options and automated execution that reduce human error
Solution Approach 2:
The device incorporates safety features including multiple selectable current amplitudes starting from low levels (250 μA), automated control to prevent excessive current delivery, and pre-determined treatment periods that ensure safe exposure durations, providing a safety buffer for non-professional use
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
The device provides a convenient and accessible means for treating ocular conditions by delivering targeted electrical stimulation, potentially improving vision recovery and preventing ocular degeneration, with safety features to prevent injury and ease of use for non-medical professionals.
Implementation Method 1
at least a first electrode electrically coupled to the micro stimulation device, wherein the at least first electrode is configured to contact and conduct the microcurrent to facial and/or ocular skin of a patient
Data Source
AI summary
A portable, handheld device and electrodes deliver precise electrical stimulation to targeted areas around the skin of the face and eyelids to treat ocular conditions. The micro stimulation device generates microcurrent using a current generator. One or more electrodes are electrically coupled to the micro stimulation device and contact and conduct the microcurrent to the facial and/or ocular skin of a patient. The current generator is configured to generate the microcurrent at a selected one of a plurality of power levels, wherein the plurality of power levels includes: 250 microamps (μA), 500 μA, 750 μA, 1000 μA, 1250 μA, and 1500 μA. A first user input is configured for a user to select one of the plurality of power levels.