Wearable Electrostimulation Device for RLS Sleep Data Monitoring

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current treatments for restless leg syndrome (RLS) and periodic limb movement disorder (PLMD) face challenges in accurately monitoring sleep disorders and optimizing electrostimulation therapy due to the lack of mechanisms for gathering data on native sleep routines and symptoms during sleep, leading to variable treatment responses and inefficiencies.

Innovation Solution

A wearable electrostimulation device system that includes sensors to collect data on heart rate, oxygenation, leg movement, and sleep environment parameters, allowing for personalized treatment protocols and automated adjustments to optimize electrostimulation therapy based on real-time feedback.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional electrostimulation therapy is applied for RLS or PLMD treatment, then the therapy can be delivered to patients, but the treatment effectiveness varies due to lack of real-time sleep data monitoring

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetreatment effectivenessVSAvoidsleep data
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a closed-loop feedback system where sleep sensors continuously monitor physiological parameters (leg movements, heart rate, respiration) during sleep, and this real-time data feeds back to automatically adjust electrostimulation therapy parameters. The system processes sleep data to detect RLS/PLMD events and triggers appropriate stimulation, ensuring treatment is delivered based on actual patient needs rather than fixed schedules.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Loss of information

If sleep sensors are integrated into the electrostimulation device, then real-time sleep data can be collected, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesleep dataVSAvoiddevice structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple functions into a single integrated device: the electrostimulation generator and sleep monitoring sensors are merged into one unit. The device simultaneously delivers electrostimulation therapy and collects sleep data (leg movements, heart rate, respiration) without requiring separate monitoring equipment. This integration reduces the need for multiple devices and simplifies the overall system architecture.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The electrostimulation device is designed with multi-functionality, serving both as a therapy delivery system and a sleep monitoring system. The same device that provides electrical stimulation also incorporates sensors and processing capabilities to detect and analyze sleep parameters, eliminating the need for separate diagnostic and treatment equipment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Adaptability or versatility

If manual adjustment of therapy parameters is used, then treatment can be customized, but it requires significant clinician time and expertise

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetreatment customizationVSAvoidclinician time
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system implements self-service automation where the device automatically adjusts therapy parameters based on real-time sleep data analysis. The processor detects RLS/PLMD events from sensor data and autonomously triggers electrostimulation without requiring continuous clinician intervention. This allows the system to adapt to individual patient needs automatically, reducing dependence on manual programming while maintaining personalized treatment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS20240123227A1Triggering peripheral nerve stimulation for RLS or PLMD based on sleep-related data
Publication Date: 2024.04.18 NOCTRIX HEALTH INC
  • US20240123227A1 patent drawing
  • US20240123227A1 patent drawing
  • US20240123227A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A technique for neurostimulation therapy is disclosed, particularly for patients suffering from Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) or Periodic Limb Movement Disorder (PLMD). The technique can involve initiating a high-frequency electrostimulation signal during a specific time period associated with the patient's transition from sleep to wakefulness. The signal can be delivered to a target location on the patient at a frequency ranging from 500 Hz to 15,000 Hz and can be controlled toward parameters below the threshold that would wake the patient, while effectively mitigating the symptoms of RLS or PLMD.