Patterned Neural Stimulation Intensity Modulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional neural stimulation methods using trains of identical electric pulses fail to mimic natural biological functions, often resulting in abnormal sensory perceptions due to the regularity of the stimulation, which can be interpreted as foreign by the brain.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that modulate the intensity (strength and timing) of a neural stimulation signal over time, allowing for the recruitment of different populations of axons and mimicking normal neurological functions by varying parameters such as amplitude, interpulse interval, and pulse shape, enabling the modulation of sensory, autonomic, motor, and cognitive functions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If trains of identical electric pulses are used for neural stimulation, then the stimulation signal is simple to generate and apply, but the brain interprets the regular train of action potentials as foreign, resulting in abnormal sensory perception
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the stimulation signal variable rather than static. The pulse train dynamically changes its characteristics (amplitude, frequency, or other parameters) over time, allowing the stimulation pattern to adapt and evolve. This dynamic variation prevents the brain from detecting a regular, foreign pattern while maintaining ease of generation through controlled parameter modulation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent directly implements parameter changes by modifying one or more parameters of the electric pulse train (such as amplitude, frequency, or pulse width) over time. This creates a non-uniform stimulation pattern that mimics natural neural activity more closely, reducing abnormal sensory perception while keeping the system simple to operate through programmable parameter variation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the intensity of neural stimulation is modulated over time, then different populations of axons can be recruited and normal biological functions are mimicked, but the device complexity increases due to the need for parameter modulation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a pulse generator that can perform multiple functions: generating base pulse trains, modulating parameters over time, and adapting to different stimulation requirements. This multi-functional approach allows a single device to recruit different axon populations through parameter variation without requiring separate specialized components for each function, thereby managing complexity while enhancing adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses dynamics to enable adaptability through time-varying parameter modulation. By implementing dynamic control of stimulation parameters, the system can selectively recruit different axon populations based on physiological needs without requiring physically reconfigurable components. The dynamic parameter adjustment provides versatility while keeping the hardware architecture relatively simple.
3Stability of the object's composition
If regular trains of identical pulses are applied to afferent neurons, then the stimulation signal is consistent and easy to control, but the regular train of action potentials is interpreted by the brain as foreign, causing tingling sensation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves this contradiction by systematically changing parameters of the pulse train over time. Instead of maintaining constant parameters that create a detectable regular pattern, the system varies parameters (amplitude, frequency, or other characteristics) in a controlled manner. This maintains sufficient consistency for effective stimulation while breaking the regular pattern that causes tingling sensations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies periodic action by introducing controlled variations in the pulse train pattern. Rather than using perfectly regular intervals and amplitudes, the system employs periodic modulation of parameters that creates a more natural, less detectable pattern. This periodic variation maintains stimulation effectiveness while reducing the foreign sensation by avoiding rigid regularity.
Data Source
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AI summary
One aspect of the present disclosure relates to a system that can modulate the intensity of a neural stimulation signal over time. A pulse generator can be configured to generate a stimulation signal for application to neural tissue of an individual and modulate a parameter related to intensity of a pattern of pulses of the stimulation signal over time. An electrode can be coupled to the pulse generator and configured to apply the stimulation signal to the neural tissue. A population of axons in the neural tissue can be recruited with each pulse of the stimulation signal.