Abstract: A pulsed signal generator for biomedical applications, including electrical stimulation of fracture healing, treatment of osteoporosis, strengthening of freshly-healed bone after removal of a cast or other fixation device, and iontophoresis. The generator includes dual asymmetric oscillators and associated circuitry to deliver signals efficiently throughout the area to be treated. The components of the generator are selected so as to produce any desired output signal, including fixed and variable amplitude, fixed, variable, and swept frequency signals, and optional DC biasing. The pulse frequency and/or interval can be fixed or adjustable. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the generator is powered by readily-available, inexpensive batteries.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for providing microcurrent stimulation therapy to a body part is disclosed. In one embodiment, a method allows digital control of the modulation frequency of the microcurrent signal. The method includes receiving a first digital data word which is used to produce a first frequency related to the first digital data word, whereupon, a first microcurrent signal at the first frequency is applied to the body part. A second digital data word is received and used to produce a second frequency related to the second digital data word. A second microcurrent signal at the second frequency is applied to the body part. In another embodiment, a method allows direct digital synthesis of the microcurrent stimulation signal. A first digital data word is used to produce a first analog voltage which is applied to the body part.

Abstract: There is provided an implantable device with two or more output stages for delivering concurrent output pulses to two or more sites within a patient's body. Each output circuit has a common architecture, including a switchable generator which has a plurality of storage capacitors and switches for arranging the capacitors either to be charged by the battery, or to discharge a stimulus pulse. A programmable regulator is provided for further regulation of the output voltage; and a multiplexer connects the output to the desired electrodes placed at the patient site.

Abstract: An electrotherapy device which provides neuromuscular and high voltage pulsed galvanic physiological stimulation and includes a common cabling assembly and a common electrode assembly for simultaneously accommodating the neuromuscular and high voltage pulsed galvanic stimulation modes, whereby neuromuscular and pulsed galvanic stimulation may be provided to a patient simultaneously.

Abstract: A multi-functional electrical stimulation (ES) system adapted to yield output signals for effecting faradic, electromagnetic or other forms of electrical stimulation for a broad spectrum of different biological and bio-medical applications. The system includes an ES signal stage having a selector coupled to a plurality of different signal generators, each generator producing a signal having a distinct shape such as a sine, a square or sawtooth wave, or a simple or complex pulse form the parameters of which are adjustable in regard to amplitude, duration, repetition rate and other variables. The signal from the selected generator in the ES stage is fed to at least one output stage where it is processed to produce a high or low voltage or current output of a desired polarity whereby the output stage is capable of yielding an electrical stimulation signal appropriate for its intended application.

Abstract: A pulsed signal generator for biomedical applications, including electrical stimulation of fracture healing, treatment of osteoporosis, or to strengthen a freshly-healed bone after a cast or other fixation device has been removed. The generator includes dual asymmetric oscillators and associated circuitry to deliver signals efficiently throughout the area to be treated. The components can readily be selected so as to produce any desired output signal, including fixed-magnitude signals and (via suitable voltage-regulating devices) variable-magnitude signals. In addition, the pulse frequency and/or interval can be fixed or adjustable, as may be convenient. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the generator is powered by readily-available, inexpensive batteries.

Abstract: A first electrical signal and a second electrical signal are transmitted to one or more implanted leads including first and second electrodes, respectively. The first and second signals have a difference in frequency such that the combined potentials induce action potentials in a certain locus of electrically excitable tissue. Means are provided for adjusting the frequency difference, as well as the amplitudes of the signals so that the locus is altered.

Abstract: The implantable, electrically operated tissue stimulator system comprises a master controller module having a micro-controller, a telemetry circuit, a power module, non-volatile memory, a real time clock and a bi-directional bus, and a plurality of Input/Output modules (I/O modules) which are connected to said bi-directional bus. Each I/O module 16 comprises (1) a control logic, (2) a programmable DC/DC Converter, (3) a capacitor multiplexer, (4) two or more electrodes (channels), (5) one amplitude holding capacitor per electrode, including circuitry for isolating the holding capacitor from other holding capacitors, and a switching network used for isolating the main power source from the electrodes during delivery of the stimulation pulses.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a microcurrent electrotherapy device that is pre-programmed to produce a series of different microcurrent waveform signals that are directed to a selected treatment area of a human or animal. More particularly, the electrotherapy device is pre-programmed to produce a sequence of different pulsed and continuous direct microcurrent waveforms. In one programmed mode, the programmed electrotherapy device produces a pulsed direct current waveform of approximately 10 .mu.A to 100 .mu.A which is followed by a second treatment phase of a direct microcurrent of approximately 300 .mu.A to 1000 .mu.A which is followed by a third treatment phase of pulsed direct microcurrent of approximately 50 to 250 .mu.A.

Abstract: A three phase facial toning system includes an applicator having an applicator electrode and a ground electrode that are electrically separated from one another by an insulated base. When the applicator is used, the user's hand is in contact with the ground electrode so that the ground electrode is grounded when in use. In the first phase, a cleanser is applied to facial skin, a first switch actuator is pressed, and the applicator electrode is placed into contact with the skin in a prescribed way. Pressing the first switch actuator places the applicator electrode in communication with a positive voltage so that electrons flow from the user's skin to the applicator electrode to help the cleansing action of the cleanser. In the second phase, a vitalizing gel is applied to the face and a second switch actuator is actuated.

Abstract: A system and method for generating bio-active frequencies with precision to within 0.001 Hz. These precise frequencies are used to kill microorganisms and viruses and to enhance tissue regeneration. In addition, they may be used in various commercial and industrial applications, such as food processing. The system comprises a frequency synthesizer which is programmed by a hard-wired control device to emit a specific precise frequency or a series of precise frequencies. In a second embodiment, the programmable control device is a plug in module which is programmed for a specific group of frequencies that have been approved for medical use by the controlling governmental body (e.g. the FDA in the United States). A keyboard may be used to select a specific frequency or a sequence of frequencies or a series of frequencies. Depending upon the specific frequency being generated, a circuit gates the generated signal ON or OFF using a predetermined periodic pattern.

Abstract: According to a method for improving certain functional characteristics of the human body, a wave is generated with a shape that is asymmetric with respect to a basic line, and with predetermined frequency and amplitude. A number of waves are grouped into pulse trains (1), with predetermined time gaps between one train and the following one. The pulse trains are in turn grouped into timely separated predetermined sequences that are applied to the human body or to a part thereof. The pulse train sequences provoke in the body a sequence of stimuli that lead to improvement of certain functional characteristics of the body.

Abstract: A system for controlling the movement of at least one limb of a person's body includes an interface unit in communication with the person's body for receiving an input signal. A polynomial processor generates a control signal as a polynomial function of the at least one input signal. A generator generates a functional electrical stimulation signal. A plurality of electrodes stimulates the movement of the at least one limb by introducing the functional electrical stimulation signal to the at least one of a plurality of inactive muscles.

Abstract: A system and method for generating bio-active frequencies. Such generated frequencies are very precise and are accurate within 0.001 Hz. The frequencies are used to advantage in health science applications such as killing microorganisms and viruses and enhancing tissue regeneration and may be used in various commercial and industrial applications, such as food processing. A specific precise frequency synthesizer is controlled by a programmable control that instructs the synthesizer to generate a specific precise frequency or a series of precise frequencies. A keyboard is actuable by a user to select a specific frequency or sequence of frequencies or a preprogrammed series of frequencies. Depending upon the specific frequency being generated, a circuit gates the generated signal ON or OFF with a predetermined determinable periods being selected for such ON/OFF periods.

Abstract: An electrotherapy device is capable of a person independently, simultaneously locating the most appropriate and effective treatment sites before administering electrotherapy and massage for acute and chronic pain. A stiff elongated support member has an electrical conductor/physical stimulator attached to an arcuate distal end. The electrical conductor/physical stimulator is attached to an electric signal generator for providing electrotherapy signals while a patient simultaneously massages a point on the patient's body with the electrical conductor/physical stimulator. The device also provides the user the ability to locate the most appropriate treatment sites for providing relief of their symptoms.

Abstract: A system and method for generating bio-active frequencies. Such generated frequencies are very precise and are accurate within 0.001 Hz. The frequencies are used to advantage in health science applications such as killing microorganisms and viruses and enhancing tissue regeneration and may be used in various commercial and industrial applications, such as food processing. A specific precise frequency synthesizer is controlled by a programmable control that instructs the synthesizer to generate a specific precise frequency or a series of precise frequencies. A keyboard is actuable by a user to select a specific frequency or sequence of frequencies or a preprogrammed series of frequencies. Depending upon the specific frequency being generated, a circuit gates the generated signal ON or OFF with a predetermined determinable periods being selected for such ON/OFF periods.

Abstract: An apparatus for transcutaneously transmitting power and communication signals to an implantable device. The apparatus can include generators for power and information signals; receivers; and a coupler for independently coupling the power signal and a first information signal. An internal unit can have receivers for power and information signals; a second signal generator; and an independent coupler. The first and second information signal can be transmitted at a frequency greater than the power frequency. The external unit can also include a signal conditioner for symmetrically transceiving the first and second information signals; and an external data controller for symmetrically controlling the information signals. The internal unit can also include a voltage regulator converter; an internal signal conditioner for symmetrically transceiving the information signals; and a data controller. Symmetrically controlling can include ASK modulation of a data signal upon an RF carrier signal.

Abstract: An interferential stimulation device for providing transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation to a living body. The device applies current at two difference frequencies, each across two contact points on the body, spaced about a selected crossing point. The different frequencies produce at the crossing point a low frequency beat by the heterodyne process for specific stimulation at the crossing point. Electronic circuitry is provided to generate the desired signals and apply them through body contacting pads. Several modes for changing the stimulation smoothly, with the interference beat frequency ramped over a selected range over a selected time period provides superior results and prevents accommodation to the device. Several different ramp beat frequency ranges are provided, including a long range ramp, a relatively low frequency ramp and a relatively high frequency ramp.

Abstract: A cardiac pacing apparatus and method. A cardiac pacing apparatus (24) provides a cardiac pacing signal to a plurality of electrode pairs (20, 22), each comprising a positive electrode (20a, 22a) and a negative electrode (20b, 22b). A plurality of isolated current sources (30, 32) supply the electrode pairs with separate electric pacing currents, each small enough in magnitude so as to avoid patient discomfort or burning. The plurality of pacing currents delivered to the electrode pairs add to produce a total cardiac pacing current of sufficient magnitude to cause contraction of a heart muscle through which the pacing currents flow.

Abstract: An interferential stimulator for applying two medium frequency alternating currents of slightly differing frequencies to the body of a living being so that they cross and interact to produce a low frequency therapeutic current at a selected point. A fixed frequency is generated and applied to the skin through a first electrode pair. A second frequency, differing from the first by from about 1 to 150Hz is applied through a second electrode pair. The electrodes are arranged to deliver a localized stimulation. At the crossing point of the four electrodes a low frequency beat or pulse is produced by the heterodyne process for specific point stimulation. The stimulator may be operated in any of several modes. First, constant stimulation may be applied at fixed frequency difference between electrodes. Second, the frequency difference can be decreased abruptly and returned to the original frequency difference over about 1 second.

Abstract: An electrical neuromuscular stimulation comprising at least one stimulation unit, which is portable and autonomous, controlled by a detachable and interchangeable information medium, previously programmed as a function of the treatment for each respective patient, equipped at its output with at least one pair of electrodes designed to be applied to the part of the patient's body to be treated and to transmit trains of electrical stimulation impulses intended to cause contractions and muscular exercise or training, said stimulation unit comprising an electronic circuitry (hardware) of the amorphous type, under the supervision of a control software with interactive parameters and linked by coupling and interaction functions, with said software being memorized on the detachable information medium, with it being possible for the value of each parameter to evolve progressively throughout the program between previously programmed reference values, and any parameter being able to control another parameter.