Enhanced Neural Activity Detection and Suppression System using Real-Time Ultrasound Feedback
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
An improved system for detecting and suppressing neural activity in the brain using real-time ultrasound feedback, enabling more accurate and targeted interventions for neurological disorders such as epilepsy.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent disclosed a method for detecting and suppressing neural activity using acoustic waves and/or ultrasound. However, it had limitations in terms of real-time feedback and precision. The new inventive concept addresses these limitations by integrating a processor and ultrasonic transducers into a helmet, providing real-time feedback to the user and enabling more accurate detection and suppression of neural activity.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The new system comprises a helmet integrated with one or more ultrasonic transducers and a processor. The processor receives and analyzes data from the ultrasonic transducers to identify the location of the neural activity in the brain with a resolution on the order of a millimeter. The processor provides real-time feedback to the user and can adjust the frequency of the ultrasound energy in real-time based on the received data to optimize detection of the neural activity. The system can also be used to suppress neural activity associated with seizures. The machine learning algorithm is trained on a dataset of neural activity patterns associated with different types of seizures, enabling more accurate detection and suppression.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce the concept of real-time feedback and precision detection and suppression of neural activity using ultrasound energy. The integration of a processor and ultrasonic transducers into a helmet enables more accurate and targeted interventions, which is a significant improvement over the original patent.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept could include using different types of sensors or transducers, such as EEG or MEG sensors, or using different machine learning algorithms to analyze the data. The system could also be adapted for use in different applications, such as detecting neural activity in other parts of the body or in animals.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The enhanced neural activity detection and suppression system has significant commercial potential in the medical device industry, particularly in the field of neurology. The system could be used to diagnose and treat neurological disorders such as epilepsy, and could also have applications in fields such as neuroscience research and neurosurgery.
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Biomedical engineering, neurotechnology, and medical device design with a focus on non-invasive neural activity detection and modulation techniques
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A biomedical engineer or neurotechnologist with advanced degree, expertise in ultrasound technologies, neural signal processing, and medical device integration, familiar with brain-computer interfaces and neurological disorder management
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize that adding real-time feedback and machine learning to the existing ultrasound-based neural activity detection system represents a predictable technological improvement. The core mechanism of using ultrasonic transducers for neural activity localization remains consistent, with the PTD introducing incremental enhancements in data processing and system responsiveness. These modifications represent standard engineering approaches to improving medical diagnostic and intervention technologies.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,811 |
|---|---|
| Title | Detection, localization, and/or suppression of neural activity using acoustic waves and/or ultrasound |
| Assignee(s) | The Board of Trustees of the Leland Stanford Junior University |