Optical Stimulation Calibration for Light Output Consistency

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Solution Overview

Problem

Implantable optical stimulation systems face challenges in providing consistent and controlled light output due to variations in light sources and optical components, leading to non-uniform therapeutic effects.

Innovation Solution

Incorporating a calibration table or calibration formula generated using the light source and optical lead, which is stored in a control unit, to determine operational parameters for achieving a target light output level, and using a light monitor to adjust these parameters for precise light delivery.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If light sources and optical components are used without calibration, then the system structure is simpler, but the light output consistency deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesystem structureVSAvoidlight output consistency
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements preliminary calibration of light sources and optical components before deployment. A calibration table is generated by measuring actual light output at different drive levels and storing this data for later use. This preliminary action compensates for manufacturing variations without requiring complex real-time control systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the operational parameters (drive levels) of light sources based on calibration data. By adjusting the drive level according to the calibration table, the system compensates for variations in light output while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Manufacturing precision

If calibration table and light monitor are added, then light output precision is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelight output precisionVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent incorporates a light monitor that provides feedback on actual light output. The control unit uses this feedback along with the calibration table to adjust drive levels and maintain precise light output. This feedback mechanism enables precise control without requiring overly complex system architecture.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The calibration table acts as an intermediary between the simple light source and the control system. It pre-processes the relationship between drive levels and light output, allowing the control unit to make precise adjustments without direct complex measurements and calculations in real-time.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Measurement precision

If calibration procedure is performed for each light source and optical lead, then light delivery accuracy is improved, but manufacturing time increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelight delivery accuracyVSAvoidmanufacturing time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The calibration procedure is performed as a preliminary step during manufacturing or setup. The calibration table is generated once for each light source and optical lead combination and then stored for repeated use. This preliminary calibration ensures accurate light delivery without requiring time-consuming adjustments during each treatment session.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

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

Ensures consistent and controlled light output at the distal portion of the optical lead, enhancing the therapeutic efficacy of optical stimulation systems by maintaining uniformity and accuracy in light delivery.

Implementation Method 1

a light source; an optical lead coupled, or coupleable, to the light source

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight emission: Light Emitting Diode

Implementation Method 2

a first optical waveguide to receive light generated by the light source and emit the light from a distal portion of the optical lead

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectOptical waveguide transmission: Waveguide (optics)

Implementation Method 3

a light monitor coupled, or coupleable to, the control unit, wherein the optical lead further includes a first optical waveguide to receive light generated by the light source and emit the light from a distal portion of the optical lead and a second optical waveguide configured to receive a portion of the light emitted from the distal portion of the optical lead and direct the received portion of the light to the light monitor

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight detection: Photoelectric Effect

Data Source

PatentUS11565131B2Optical stimulation systems with calibration and methods of making and using
Publication Date: 2023.01.31 BOSTON SCI NEUROMODULATION CORP
  • US11565131B2 patent drawing
  • US11565131B2 patent drawing
  • US11565131B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An optical stimulation system includes a light source; an optical lead coupled, or coupleable, to the light source; at least one of a calibration table or a calibration formula, generated by a calibration procedure specifically using the light source and the optical lead of the optical stimulation system; and a control unit coupled, or coupleable, to the light source. The control module includes a memory to store the at least one of the calibration table or the calibration formula, and a processor coupled to the memory and configured for receiving a target light output level, using the at least one of the calibration table or the calibration formula to determine at least one operational parameter for generating the target light output level, and directing the light source, using the at least one operational parameter, to generate light at the target light output level.