RFID Neurostimulator System for Selective Nerve Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current treatments for conditions like sleep apnea, arthritis, and seizures require multiple implants and power sources, limiting their therapeutic efficacy and patient compliance due to the need for accurate detection and selective stimulation of nerves.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising an external and internal subsystem, where the internal subsystem includes a neural interface with electrodes and a core subsystem powered by RF waves, allowing for programmable and selective neural stimulation using a single controller power source, capable of treating various conditions by stimulating or blocking nerve transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple implants with multiple power sources are used for selective neural stimulation, then the scope of therapeutic efficacy is expanded, but the device complexity and patient compliance deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The external controller is designed to serve multiple functions: it acts as a power source, communication interface, and control unit for multiple implants. The system allows a single external controller to wirelessly power and control multiple neural implants through RF communication, eliminating the need for each implant to have its own separate power source and control electronics.
Solution Approach 2:
The power source and control electronics are extracted from the implants and placed in an external controller. This separation allows the implants to be smaller, simpler, and easier to implant, while the complex power and control functions are handled externally through wireless RF communication.
2Measurement precision
If accurate detection and selective stimulation components are coupled, then the precision of nerve stimulation is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The external controller serves as an intermediary between the detection electronics and the stimulation delivery. The implant contains detection electronics that sense neural activity, which is then transmitted wirelessly to the external controller for processing. The external controller determines the appropriate stimulation response and sends control signals back to the implant for selective nerve stimulation.
3Device complexity
If a single controller power source controls multiple implants, then the device complexity is reduced, but the power distribution and control precision must be maintained
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs bidirectional RF communication between the external controller and implants. The implant's detection electronics continuously monitor neural activity and transmit this information to the external controller. The controller processes this feedback information and adjusts stimulation parameters in real-time to maintain precise control over multiple implants, ensuring accurate and selective neural stimulation.
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
Enables effective and compliant long-term treatment of multiple conditions by providing precise nerve stimulation with reduced complexity and increased efficacy, using a single power source for multiple implants, enhancing patient outcomes.
Implementation Method 1
The implant includes a core subsystem, an internal RF interface, and a neural interface. The internal subsystem is powered by RF waves from the external subsystem.
Data Source
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AI summary
Provided is an implantable RFID-enabled micro-electronic neurostimulator system comprising (a) an internal subsystem having (i) an array of electrodes, where at least one electrode pair contacts a nerve; (ii) a multiplexer; (iii) digital to analog signal converter; and (iv) a RFID based control and stimulation chip; and (b) an external subsystem having (i) a controller; and (ii) an RP interface.