Vestibular Stimulation System Spatial Customization

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional vestibular stimulation systems deliver a uniform electrical current to both sides of the head, lacking the ability to vary stimulation parameters spatially, which limits their effectiveness in addressing individual anatomical and sensitivity differences.

Innovation Solution

A system comprising spatially distinct contact surfaces and a processor that controls the distribution of electrical stimulation, allowing for varying parameters across different contact points on the same side of the head to customize the vestibular stimulation based on individual anatomy and sensitivity.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a single electrical current is delivered to each side of the head through conventional systems, then the system structure remains simple, but the ability to customize stimulation parameters spatially is lost

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvespatial customization of stimulation parametersVSAvoidsystem structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the stimulation system into multiple independent contact surfaces (electrodes) positioned at different locations around the head. Each contact surface can receive and deliver electrical stimulation with independently controllable parameters, allowing spatial customization of the stimulation pattern while maintaining a relatively simple overall system architecture.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent enables different stimulation parameters (intensity, frequency, pulse width) to be applied to different contact surfaces based on local anatomical and sensitivity characteristics. This allows the system to tailor the stimulation properties at each specific location on the head, achieving spatially varying therapeutic effects without requiring a completely complex system redesign.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

2Adaptability or versatility

If uniform stimulation parameters are applied across all contact surfaces, then the system operation remains simple, but individual anatomical and sensitivity differences cannot be addressed

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecustomization to individual anatomy and sensitivityVSAvoidoperation complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a dynamic control system that can adjust stimulation parameters in real-time for each contact surface based on individual subject characteristics. The system transitions from static uniform stimulation to dynamic customized stimulation, allowing operators to modify intensity, frequency, and other parameters independently for each electrode location to match individual anatomical variations and sensitivity profiles.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent enables independent modification of multiple stimulation parameters (voltage, current, frequency, pulse duration, polarity) for each contact surface. This parameter flexibility allows the system to adapt to individual subject differences in anatomy and sensitivity, with each electrode capable of delivering customized waveforms tailored to local tissue characteristics and therapeutic requirements.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

3Manufacturing precision

If multiple contact surfaces with independent parameter control are implemented, then spatial customization is achieved, but the number of control channels increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvespatial precision of stimulation deliveryVSAvoidnumber of control channels

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs a multi-functional control architecture where a single processor or control unit manages multiple contact surfaces through standardized control channels. Each control channel can address different parameters (intensity, frequency, timing) and can be programmed to deliver specific stimulation patterns to different electrode locations, reducing the need for entirely separate control systems for each contact surface and minimizing overall device complexity while maintaining spatial precision.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 tailored vestibular stimulation that can impact balance, spatial orientation, and other physiological functions more effectively by adjusting parameters like amplitude, frequency, and polarity at specific locations, enhancing therapeutic outcomes compared to conventional methods.

Implementation Method 1

The first set of subject contact surfaces... are configured to be installed on the skin of the subject... in electrical contact with the skin of the subject such that distribution of electrical stimulation to the first set of contact surfaces impacts the vestibular system

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectrical conduction: Conduction (electrical)

Data Source

PatentUS9132271B2System and method of delivering vestibular stimulation customizable to individual subjects

Publication Date: 2015.09.15 KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS NV

AI summary

The vestibular system of a subject is stimulated in accordance with a therapy regime that dictates one or more parameters of the stimulation. The system is configured such that at a single site, one or more parameters of the stimulation varies for different locations at the site. This may enhance the customizability and/or effectiveness of the stimulation.