Optical Cooling Probe for Chronic Brain Implantation
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cooling devices for localized tissue cooling, such as for epilepsy, are not suitable for chronic intra-cerebral implantation and pose medical risks during implantation and operation, and lack the ability to operate on demand in a closed-loop mode.
Innovation Solution
A biocompatible cooling device with a cooling element featuring a crystal that cools via excitation at a specific wavelength, an optical guide for light signal conveyance, and a processing and control unit for closed-loop operation, including a temperature sensor and heat exchanger, allowing for controlled and efficient cooling of the brain.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional cooling devices are used for localized tissue cooling, then cooling effect is achieved, but they are not suitable for chronic intra-cerebral implantation and pose medical risks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical cooling systems (thermoelectric modules, microfluidic devices) with a laser-based optical cooling system. A laser beam excites a crystal at the tip of a biocompatible probe, generating localized cooling through optical-to-thermal energy conversion without mechanical moving parts, thereby eliminating risks associated with mechanical implantation and operation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the fundamental operating parameter from electrical or fluid-based cooling to optical excitation-based cooling. By using laser excitation at specific wavelengths to activate the crystal, the system achieves cooling through photophysical processes rather than mechanical or thermal conduction methods, improving biocompatibility and reducing medical risks
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional cooling devices are used, then cooling function is provided, but they lack the ability to operate on demand in closed-loop mode
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a closed-loop control system where temperature sensors continuously monitor the tissue temperature and provide feedback to the control unit. The control unit adjusts the laser power accordingly to maintain the desired temperature setpoint, enabling on-demand operation that responds dynamically to physiological conditions such as epileptic seizure detection
Solution Approach 2:
The probe integrates multiple functions into a single device: the crystal provides cooling through laser excitation, temperature sensors monitor thermal conditions, and the control unit coordinates operation based on feedback signals. This multi-functional integration enables versatile on-demand operation while maintaining ease of use through automated control
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 enables safe, long-term implantation with reduced medical risks and the ability to initiate cooling on demand, effectively blocking or stopping seizures by generating targeted cooling based on detected epileptogenic activity.
Implementation Method 1
A crystal that has a capacity to cool via excitation at a set excitation wavelength
Implementation Method 2
An optical guide that is able to convey a light signal at said excitation wavelength
Implementation Method 3
The cooling element comprises a heat exchanger that is placed between the cold finger and the cavity enclosing the crystal
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a device for cooling an organ locally, that includes an elongate stem including a far end intended to make contact with an organ to be cooled and comprising including a cooling element having a cold finger, a crystal that has a capacity to cool via excitation at a set excitation wavelength, said crystal being positioned adjacent to said cooling element, an optical guide that is able to convey a light signal at said excitation wavelength and that opens onto said crystal, and an illuminating system including at least one light source, which light source is arranged to emit said light signal.