Universal Connector Block for Implantable Signal Generators
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The medical device industry faces challenges in manufacturing efficiency and inventory management due to the need for multiple models of neurostimulators to accommodate different lead configurations, as each neurostimulator is often compatible with only one specific lead type, leading to increased production costs and inventory requirements.
Innovation Solution
An implantable signal generator with a connector block and electronic circuitry that can identify and determine information about connected leads by measuring characteristics of contacts within the lumen, allowing for bidirectional connection and detection of electrode connectors, enabling the use of various lead configurations with a single neurostimulator.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a neurostimulator is designed to be compatible with only one specific lead type, then the connection reliability is improved, but the adaptability and manufacturing efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The connector block is designed with multiple lumens that can accommodate different lead configurations (single lead, dual leads, triad leads) while maintaining reliable electrical connections. The connector can identify and adapt to various lead types through detection mechanisms, allowing one neurostimulator model to serve multiple lead configurations, thereby improving both reliability and adaptability simultaneously
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple models of neurostimulators are produced to accommodate different lead configurations, then the adaptability is improved, but the manufacturing cost and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
A single neurostimulator model incorporates a universal connector block capable of handling multiple lead configurations through detection and identification mechanisms. This eliminates the need for multiple device models, reducing manufacturing complexity and inventory requirements while maintaining broad lead configuration compatibility
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple models of neurostimulators are maintained in inventory, then the adaptability to different lead configurations is improved, but the inventory management complexity and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The universal connector block enables a single neurostimulator model to support multiple lead configurations, dramatically reducing the variety of devices that need to be inventoried. This allows implant facilities to maintain smaller, more manageable inventory levels while still providing comprehensive lead configuration support
4Ease of operation
If automatic lead identification is implemented, then the implantation efficiency and ease of operation are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector block incorporates automatic detection mechanisms that autonomously identify lead configurations and characteristics without requiring manual intervention or complex programming during implantation. The system self-determines connection parameters and adapts settings automatically, improving implantation efficiency while keeping the added complexity manageable through integrated design
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
This solution enables the use of different lead configurations with a single neurostimulator, reducing manufacturing costs and inventory needs while improving implantation efficiency by allowing the signal generator to automatically determine lead information, such as electrode count and type, facilitating easier programming and therapy delivery.
Implementation Method 1
measuring at least one characteristic of at least one of the plurality of contacts... determining which of two ranges the measured characteristic fits, wherein the two ranges of characteristics correspond to an electrode connector being electrically coupled with the at least one of the plurality of contacts
Data Source
AI summary
An implantable signal generator including electronic circuitry, a computer readable medium, and a connector block with a lumen which receives at least one lead. The at least one lead has at least one electrode connector while the lumen of the connector block has a plurality of contacts operably coupled to the electronic circuitry. The computer readable medium contains instructions for carrying out a process to determine at least one piece of information regarding the at least one lead within the lumen based on an electrode connector being electrically connected with the at least one of the plurality of contacts, and an electrode connector not being electrically connected with the at least one of the plurality of contacts.