Enhanced Transdermal Electrical Stimulation System with Adaptive Impedance Compensation
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
An improved system for transdermally applying electrical stimulation to the head region, featuring adaptive impedance compensation and real-time signal adjustment to ensure optimal treatment efficacy and user comfort.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent disclosed a method and device for transdermally applying electrical stimulation to the head region, particularly in areas with high impedance such as hair-covered scalp. However, the existing design may not adequately account for variations in scalp impedance, potentially leading to inconsistent treatment outcomes. The new inventive concept addresses this limitation by introducing adaptive impedance compensation and real-time signal adjustment.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The enhanced system comprises a head-mounted device with adaptive impedance compensation, which dynamically adjusts the electrical stimulation signal based on real-time impedance measurements. This is achieved through a control unit that processes data from built-in impedance sensors in each electrode, ensuring optimal signal delivery and minimizing the risk of skin irritation or discomfort. The system can also incorporate a humidity sensor to further refine the stimulation signal based on scalp conditions.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new inventive concept introduces the novel feature of adaptive impedance compensation, which is not present in the original patent. This innovation enables real-time signal adjustment, ensuring a more efficient and effective treatment process.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept could include the use of different types of impedance sensors, such as capacitive or resistive sensors, or the integration of additional sensors to monitor other scalp conditions, such as temperature or pH levels. Variations of the system could also be designed for specific applications, such as pain management or cognitive enhancement.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The enhanced transdermal electrical stimulation system has significant commercial potential in the medical device industry, particularly in the fields of pain management, neurology, and aesthetics. The system's ability to adapt to individual scalp conditions and ensure optimal treatment outcomes could lead to increased adoption and market share.
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Biomedical electrical stimulation devices, specifically head-mounted neurostimulation systems with a focus on transdermal electrode interfaces and signal modulation techniques
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
An electrical engineer or biomedical device designer with expertise in electrical stimulation technologies, signal processing, sensor integration, and understanding of impedance compensation in medical device design
Obviousness Rationale
A person of ordinary skill would recognize that adaptive impedance compensation is a natural extension of the source patent's existing signal modulation techniques. The core principles of dynamically adjusting electrical stimulation parameters based on physiological conditions are inherently suggested by the original patent's claims about processing unit adaptations. The proposed variations represent predictable engineering solutions to known challenges in transdermal electrical stimulation.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,786 |
|---|---|
| Title | Method and device for transdermally applying electrical stimulation to a region of the head having high impedance |
| Assignee(s) | NEUROLIEF LTD. |