Paired Training System Synchronizing Neural Stimulation with Therapy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current therapies and training methods lack effective mechanisms to induce and measure neural plasticity, particularly in treating conditions like tinnitus, where precise timing and synchronization of nerve stimulation with training experiences are crucial for lasting effects.
Innovation Solution
A paired training system that synchronizes neural stimulation with training experiences using electrical, magnetic, or other forms of nerve stimulation, affecting specific brain regions to induce measurable plasticity, with precise timing control and various stimulation waveforms, including constant current or exponential pulses, to enhance therapeutic outcomes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If nerve stimulation is applied during training experiences, then neural plasticity is enhanced and therapeutic outcomes are improved, but the device complexity and timing synchronization requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines nerve stimulation delivery with training experience presentation into a single integrated system. The stimulation controller synchronizes electrical stimulation pulses with specific moments during training experiences (such as motor imagery or sensory stimulation), merging two separate therapeutic components into one coordinated intervention that enhances neural plasticity while managing device complexity through integration.
2Manufacturing precision
If precise timing control is implemented to synchronize stimulation with training experiences, then neural plasticity induction is improved, but the measurement and control difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The stimulation controller incorporates feedback mechanisms to precisely time stimulation delivery relative to training experiences. The system monitors the timing of training events (such as onset of motor imagery or sensory stimulus presentation) and adjusts stimulation pulse timing accordingly, ensuring precise synchronization that enhances neural plasticity induction while providing measurable control accuracy through feedback loops.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple stimulation waveforms and protocols are available, then adaptability to different conditions is improved, but the ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides dynamic adaptability through multiple stimulation waveforms (such as constant current, exponential, and other forms) and configurable protocols that can be adjusted based on specific therapeutic conditions and patient responses. The stimulation controller allows programming of different waveform parameters, pulse trains, and timing configurations, enabling the system to adapt to various neurological conditions and treatment stages while maintaining operational simplicity through structured control interfaces.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems, methods and devices for paired training include timing controls so that training and neural stimulation can be provided simultaneously. Paired trainings may include therapies, rehabilitation and performance enhancement training. Stimulations of nerves such as the vagus nerve that affect subcortical regions such as the nucleus basalis, locus coeruleus or amygdala induce plasticity in the brain, enhancing the effects of a variety of therapies, such as those used to treat tinnitus, stroke, traumatic brain injury, post-traumatic stress disorder, speech deficit or language deficit.