Wireless Neural Stimulator Placement via RF Energy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current neural stimulation technologies require implantable pulse generators and wired connections for power, which can complicate the implantation process and limit the compactness and minimally invasive nature of the devices.
Innovation Solution
A wireless neural stimulator device powered by remote radiofrequency energy, eliminating the need for an implantable pulse generator and wired connections, allowing for compact and minimally invasive implantation by using internal antennas for energy reception and electrodes for nerve stimulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If an implantable pulse generator and wired connections are used for neural stimulation, then reliable power delivery and neural stimulation can be achieved, but the implantation process becomes more complex and the device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the power source and wired connections from the implantable device, using remote radiofrequency energy transmission to deliver power wirelessly. This eliminates the need for implantable pulse generators and wired connections, reducing implantation complexity while maintaining power delivery reliability through external energy transmission
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical wired connection system with a wireless electromagnetic field-based power transmission system. Radiofrequency energy is transmitted through tissue to power the neural stimulator without physical wire connections, simplifying the implantation process while ensuring reliable energy delivery
2Duration of action of moving object
If an implantable pulse generator is used for neural stimulation, then continuous power supply can be ensured, but the device compactness and minimally invasive nature are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the power source from the implanted device entirely, extracting this bulky component and replacing it with wireless energy transmission. The neural stimulator can be made compact since it only contains the minimal necessary electronics and electrodes, while power is supplied continuously from an external source
Solution Approach 2:
The external radiofrequency transmitter serves multiple functions: it transmits power wirelessly, communicates with the implantable device, and can be adjusted to provide continuous or intermittent power supply. This multi-functional external device replaces the need for an internal power source, enabling compact implant 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
Enables effective neural stimulation without the need for implanted power sources or wired connections, facilitating easier and more compact implantation procedures while providing efficient energy delivery to neural tissues.
Implementation Method 1
A wireless neural stimulator device powered by remote radiofrequency energy, eliminating the need for an implantable pulse generator and wired connections, allowing for compact and minimally invasive implantation by using internal antennas for energy reception
Data Source
AI summary
A method for implanting a wireless neural stimulator device, the method including: inserting a device through on a patient's skin on a posterior side of the patient's neck region, wherein the device includes a proximal end, a distal end, a first opening at the proximal end, a second opening at the distal end, and a lumen extending between the first opening and the second opening; after inserting the device through the patient's skin, advancing the distal end into the epidural space of the patient; inserting the wireless neural stimulator device through the first opening; advancing the wireless neural stimulator from the first opening through the lumen until the wireless neural stimulator exits the second opening and into the patient's epidural space; and advancing the wireless neural stimulator through the epidural space until a target site is reached.