Stimulation Arrangement for Diaphragm Activation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for activating patients, particularly in critical care settings, often cause discomfort and inefficiency due to sudden convulsions and noise generation during electromagnetic stimulation, which can hinder therapeutic effects.
Innovation Solution
A stimulation arrangement comprising an induction device with a field generator producing a spatial field with targeted shape and a control unit that generates sequences of consecutive pulses, allowing for efficient and comfortable activation of target tissues like the diaphragm by adjusting temporal characteristics and intensity to minimize discomfort and noise.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If electromagnetic stimulation is applied to activate patient tissue, then therapeutic activation effect is improved, but patient discomfort and convulsion risk increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies periodic action by using intermittent pulse trains with varying frequencies and durations. The stimulation is delivered in controlled sequences rather than continuously, allowing the nervous system to adapt between pulses. This periodic pattern reduces sudden convulsion risks while maintaining therapeutic activation of the target tissue through rhythmic stimulation that mimics natural physiological patterns.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics by dynamically adjusting stimulation parameters including pulse frequency, amplitude, and duration based on real-time patient response and therapeutic goals. The control system adapts the electromagnetic field characteristics during treatment, transitioning between different pulse patterns to optimize activation while minimizing discomfort and convulsion risk in response to individual patient needs.
2Reliability
If electromagnetic stimulation is applied to activate patient tissue, then therapeutic activation effect is improved, but noise generation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent reduces noise generation through periodic action by delivering stimulation in intermittent pulse trains rather than continuous waves. The periodic on-off pattern allows the electromagnetic field to settle between pulses, reducing electromagnetic interference and acoustic noise. The controlled timing and frequency of pulses minimize sudden electromagnetic transients that would generate noise while maintaining effective tissue activation.
3Speed
If sudden electromagnetic stimulation is provided, then rapid activation response is improved, but reactive body responses such as convulsion occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by using ramp-up protocols where the stimulation intensity gradually increases over several pulses before reaching full amplitude. This progressive buildup allows the nervous system to prepare for the stimulation, reducing sudden reactive responses. The control system anticipates the full activation effect by progressively increasing intensity, enabling rapid therapeutic response while preventing convulsive reactions that would occur with abrupt full-strength stimulation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics by dynamically adjusting the temporal characteristics of pulse trains, including inter-pulse intervals and frequency modulation. The system adapts the timing parameters in real-time to optimize activation speed while preventing convulsive responses. By dynamically controlling the rhythm and pace of stimulation, the system achieves rapid therapeutic effect without triggering reactive body responses.
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 solution enables convenient and efficient activation of patients with reduced discomfort and noise, effectively supporting respiratory function and reducing the risks associated with mechanical ventilation.
Implementation Method 1
an induction device (2) having a field generator (21) configured to generate a spatial field (212) having a targeted shape
Data Source
AI summary
A stimulation arrangement is disclosed that includes an induction device having a field generator configured to generate a spatial field having a targeted shape, and a control unit in communication with the induction device and configured to control the induction device to generate the spatial field. The field generator of the induction device is configured to be positioned at a human or animal patient such that, for activating the patient, a target tissue is stimulable by the spatial field generated by the coil design. The control unit is configured to operate the induction device such that the field generator generates a sequence of consecutive trains of plural pulses of the electro-magnetic field, wherein the trains are intermitted.

