Planar Microcoil Arrays in Wearable Neuromodulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for modulating brain waves using pulsed electromagnetic fields are cumbersome, difficult to use for extended periods, and often generate non-homogeneous magnetic fields, leading to suboptimal treatment and low patient compliance.
Innovation Solution
A head covering integrated with discrete arrays of planar microcoils configured to generate pulsed electromagnetic fields, allowing for comfortable, long-term wear and predictable therapeutically effective dose regions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional pulsed electromagnetic field devices are used, then brain wave modulation is achieved, but the devices are cumbersome and difficult to use for extended periods
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates planar microcoil arrays into a flexible head covering that conforms to the contours of the head. The thin film structure allows the device to be worn comfortably for extended periods while maintaining the pulsed electromagnetic field generation capability for brain wave modulation.
Solution Approach 2:
The device divides the head covering into multiple discrete planar microcoil arrays positioned at specific locations (front, back, left side, right side). Each microcoil array can be independently controlled, allowing targeted brain wave modulation while distributing the physical burden across multiple small components rather than one large device.
2Reliability
If conventional pulsed electromagnetic field devices are used, then treatment is provided, but the magnetic fields generated are non-homogeneous, leading to suboptimal treatment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions discrete planar microcoil arrays at specific locations on the head covering (front, back, left side, right side) to create localized zones of homogeneous magnetic field. Each microcoil array is designed to generate a uniform field in its specific region, and the collective arrangement ensures comprehensive coverage of the entire head with consistent field homogeneity across all treatment zones.
3Reliability
If conventional devices are used, then some treatment effect is achieved, but patient compliance is low due to discomfort and difficulty of use
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible head covering with integrated planar microcoil arrays provides a comfortable, conformable design that patients can wear for extended periods without discomfort. This significantly improves compliance compared to rigid conventional devices, allowing consistent treatment delivery and achieving therapeutic goals more effectively.
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 effectively modulates brain waves, improving patient compliance and treatment efficacy by providing a comfortable, consistent, and predictable delivery of pulsed electromagnetic fields.
Implementation Method 1
each microcoil of the at least two planar flexible arrays is configured to receive the electrical pulse train and generate pulsed electromagnetic fields in response
Data Source
AI summary
Pulsed electromagnetic field systems include planar microcoil arrays integrated into clothing. The planar microcoil arrays are connected to a neuromodulation controller and configured to generate an electrical current and transmit that electrical current, in accordance with a particular stimulation protocol, to each of the planar microcoil arrays.