Vision Treatment Electrode Layout for Adjustable Signal Geometry
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for an improved system for electrode design, placement, and electrical-stimulation-signal delivery and reception for vision-problem treatment and testing.
Innovation Solution
The system includes electrode systems with specific designs and placements that facilitate the adjustment of signal flow geometry through patient tissues, allowing for effective treatment and monitoring of vision problems such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional electrode designs and placements are used, then the system structure is simple, but the ability to adjust signal flow geometry through tissues is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The electrode system is divided into multiple independently controllable electrode groups (first electrode group, second electrode group, third electrode group, fourth electrode group) positioned at different locations. Each group can be independently activated to create different signal flow geometries through the tissue, enabling versatile adjustment without requiring a completely different system design for each configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs dynamic control of electrode activation patterns, where different combinations of electrode groups are activated based on treatment requirements. The signal flow geometry can be dynamically adjusted by changing which electrode groups are active and their respective signal parameters, allowing the system to adapt to different tissue depths and target locations.
2Measurement precision
If multiple electrode groups are used to adjust signal flow geometry, then treatment precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The multiple electrode groups share common structural elements including the signal generator, controller, and housing. Each electrode group can serve multiple functions depending on activation patterns - they can be used individually for targeted stimulation or in combination for broader coverage. This multi-functionality reduces the need for completely separate systems for different treatment scenarios.
Solution Approach 2:
The system merges multiple electrode groups into a single integrated device with shared control electronics and power supply. The first, second, third, and fourth electrode groups are all controlled by the same signal generator and controller unit, consolidating what could have been separate devices into one unified system that achieves high treatment precision.
3Reliability
If signals are delivered to multiple electrode groups simultaneously, then treatment effectiveness is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs periodic or alternating activation of different electrode groups rather than continuous simultaneous activation. The controller can activate electrode groups in sequences or cycles, delivering signals to different groups at different time intervals. This periodic action maintains treatment effectiveness by providing comprehensive coverage while reducing peak energy consumption compared to continuous simultaneous activation of all groups.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts signal delivery parameters including amplitude, duration, and activation timing for each electrode group based on real-time feedback and treatment requirements. This dynamic control allows the system to optimize energy distribution, delivering higher energy to specific groups when needed while using lower energy or inactive states for other groups, thereby maintaining effectiveness while managing overall energy consumption.
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 system enables precise control of electrical stimulation to treat and monitor vision issues, ensuring effective treatment delivery and monitoring, including the ability to adjust treatment based on diagnostic results.
Implementation Method 1
a signal generator configured to deliver a signal to the electrode system, wherein the signal generator adjusts at least one signal parameter
Data Source
Figure 1A1
Figure 1A2~1A3
Figure 1B1
AI summary
A system and method for electrical stimulation of the human body, and in particular, to systems and methods for electrode systems and signal delivery used in electrical-stimulation treatment, testing and monitoring of vision problems of a patient, analyzing the results of the treatments, and monitoring to determine, for example, whether a medical treatment for the patient needs to be continued and/or altered, wherein the design and placement of the electrode systems and adjustment of signals delivered to the electrodes facilitate adjustment of the geometry of signal flow through the tissues of the patient.