Head-supported Patents (Class 607/139)
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Patent number: 12067170Abstract: A device for motion sickness reduction, directional indication, and neural rehabilitation that provides three modes of operation. The device operates by providing haptic feedback using transducers that convert electrical signals to a tactile sensation such as pressure, vibration, electrical stimulation, temperature, or airflow. The transducers are located at different locations on the body of a user, and actively change their operation to indicate a direction of motion or rotation to the user through haptic (tactile) feedback. This tactile feedback can be used to reduce motion sickness, provide directional indication, and enhance neural rehabilitation.Type: GrantFiled: November 4, 2023Date of Patent: August 20, 2024Assignee: NEUROHAPTICS, INC.Inventor: Evgene Fainstain
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Patent number: 12023164Abstract: A headpiece, acquisition device, system and method for making electroencephalography (EEG) measurements. The EEG headpiece fits, or adjusts to fit, on a person's scalp, each of a plurality of electrodes is located in the headpiece corresponding to selected respective positions on the scalp, the electrodes are electrically connected to at least one electrical transmitter, and the headpiece is attached to the scalp after the electrodes have been located in the headpiece.Type: GrantFiled: December 4, 2020Date of Patent: July 2, 2024Assignee: RHYTHMLINK INTERNATIONAL, LLCInventor: Brian Alkire
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Patent number: 12017068Abstract: In an illustrative embodiment, systems and methods for providing antiemetic therapy through neuromodulation include positioning a first electrode against or at least partially into a first tissue region on or surrounding a subject's ear such that the first electrode is on, over, or adjacent to one or more first neural structures, positioning a second electrode against or at least partially into a second tissue region on or surrounding the ear such that the second electrode is on, over, or adjacent to one or more second neural structures, delivering a first series of stimulation pulses to the first electrode for modulating peripheral activity via modulating central neural autonomic structures, and delivering a second series of stimulation pulses to the second electrode for increasing availability of central norepinephrine.Type: GrantFiled: May 26, 2023Date of Patent: June 25, 2024Assignee: Spark Biomedical, Inc.Inventors: Alejandro Covalin, Navid Khodaparast, Melanie McWade
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Patent number: 11957485Abstract: A hat (200) for a neonate (120) comprising: a central portion (201), a first side portion (202) and second side portion (203) attached to opposite sides of the central portion (201), a first fastener (208); a top flap (204) and a second fastener (211). The hat (200) has an unfolded configuration and a worn configuration. In the unfolded configuration the first and second portions (202, 203) extend away from each other from the central portion (201) in opposite directions. In the worn configuration the hat (200) wraps a neonate's head with the central portion (201) in contact with the back of the neonate's head, the first portion (202) wrapped around a first side of the neonate's head and the second portion (203) wrapped around a second side of the neonate's head.Type: GrantFiled: March 3, 2017Date of Patent: April 16, 2024Assignees: SUREPULSE MEDICAL LIMITED, THE UNIVERSITY OF NOTTINGHAMInventors: James Carpenter, Barrie Hayes-Gill, Caroline Henry, Don Sharkey, Lara Shipley
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Patent number: 11938312Abstract: Apparatus for securing a therapy delivery device relative to a burr hole and method for making same. In one embodiment, the apparatus includes a base for seating in or near the burr hole. The apparatus may further include a stabilizer that may be engaged with the therapy delivery device. The stabilizer may include a surface coating or treatment operable to enhance frictional engagement with the therapy delivery device.Type: GrantFiled: October 1, 2018Date of Patent: March 26, 2024Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.Inventors: Gregory T. Schulte, Matthew H. Adams, Shahn S. Sage, Lynn M. Otten
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Patent number: 11883643Abstract: A device for a soft tissue treatment of a patient. The device includes an applicator including at least one electrode, a fastening mechanism to fix the applicator to a body part of a patient, and a control unit including a microprocessor to control the at least one electrode. The at least one electrode may provide a radiofrequency energy and an electric current. The radiofrequency energy may cause a heating of a soft tissue. The electric current may cause a muscle contraction. The body part includes a face or a chin.Type: GrantFiled: February 14, 2023Date of Patent: January 30, 2024Assignee: BTL Healthcare Technologies A.S.Inventor: Tomás Schwarz
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Patent number: 11850420Abstract: The present invention discloses a brain stimulation systems, devices and methods to: induce lucid reality; improve sleep; improve motor performance; improve learning; enhance gaming activities; improve mental health; and any combination thereof. The system comprises at least one head mounted device; at least one power supply unit; at least one communication unit; at least one microcontroller; at least one external device; and at least one cloud-based storing device.Type: GrantFiled: September 18, 2017Date of Patent: December 26, 2023Assignee: NYX Technologies Ltd.Inventors: Tomer Aharonovitch, Ophir Orenstein
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Patent number: 11818550Abstract: As described in some examples of this disclosure, a Behind-The-Ear (BTE) hearing instrument comprises processing circuity, a battery that stores energy for use by the processing circuitry, and a housing that contains a receiver configured to output sound. The receiver is positioned within the hearing instrument posterior to the processing circuitry and the power source.Type: GrantFiled: February 16, 2022Date of Patent: November 14, 2023Assignee: Starkey Laboratories, Inc.Inventor: Andrew Joseph Johnson
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Patent number: 11794006Abstract: The present invention discloses a brain stimulation systems, devices and methods to: induce lucid reality; improve sleep; improve motor performance; improve learning; enhance gaming activities; improve mental health; and any combination thereof. The system comprises at least one head mounted device; at least one power supply unit; at least one communication unit; at least one microcontroller; at least one external device; and at least one cloud-based storing device.Type: GrantFiled: September 18, 2017Date of Patent: October 24, 2023Assignee: NYX Technologies Ltd.Inventors: Tomer Aharonovitch, Ophir Orenstein
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Patent number: 11779753Abstract: A method of guiding positioning of a headset for transcranial brain stimulation on a head of a user of the headset is disclosed The method includes: capturing, using a camera, one or more head images depicting the head; detecting, in the one or more head images, features of the head; creating, using the detected features of the head, a model of the head; computing, using the model of the head, an intended headset position on the head; and displaying, on a display, a representation of the headset as an overlay on an image of the head of the user. Also a kit includes a headset for transcranial brain stimulation, and a non-transitory computer-readable recording medium is disclosed, which configures an electronic device to perform the method of guiding positioning of a headset.Type: GrantFiled: July 23, 2019Date of Patent: October 10, 2023Assignee: FLOW NEUROSCIENCE ABInventors: Daniel Månsson, Erik Rehn
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Patent number: 11660054Abstract: Embodiments related to methods and wearable medical detecting systems for detecting disease states and/or treatment states of a subject are described. In one embodiment, a wearable structure may include one or more radiation detectors use to detect a time varying radiation signal emitted from a labeled compound within a body portion of interest. The radiation signal may be analyzed to determine one or more signal characteristics that may be compared to one or more predetermined standard characteristics associated with known disease and/or treatment states to determine a current disease and/or treatment state of a subject.Type: GrantFiled: November 22, 2017Date of Patent: May 30, 2023Assignee: Biogen MA Inc.Inventors: Ajay Verma, Elliot Greenblatt, Ira Spool, Seth O. Newburg, Guy M. Danner, Ara N. Knaian, Rachel M. Chaney, John W. Hoppin
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Patent number: 11647956Abstract: Disclosed embodiments provide an electroencephalogram system and method. A novel electrode holder provides multiple net grooves for quick attachment and detachment from an electroencephalogram net. The electrode holder further includes a slot adapted to receive a tab that holds the electrode securely in place. The electrode holder can be configured to operate without gel by using sponges containing water or saline solution that provides moisture for enhancing conductivity. The electrode holder can alternatively be configured to operate with gel by using a tab that keeps the gel in contact with the electrode, for situations that warrant the use of gel instead of water.Type: GrantFiled: March 19, 2018Date of Patent: May 16, 2023Assignee: Neurofeedback-Partner GmbHInventor: Thomas Feiner
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Patent number: 11622709Abstract: Disclosed are medical devices for sensing bioelectrical potential including an electroencephalography (EEG) headset, electrodes compatible therewith, and methods of operation thereof. The headset can comprise a left junction and a right junction, a plurality of length-adjustable bands connecting the left junction and the right junction, and a number of electrodes. Each of the electrodes can comprise an electrode body coupled to one of the plurality of length-adjustable bands and a detachable electrode tip configured to be detachably coupled to the electrode body. The electrode tip can comprise an electrode tip body, one or more deflectable electrode legs coupled to the electrode tip body, and a conductive cushioning material coupled to a segment of at least one of the one or more electrode legs. The conductive cushioning material can retain or be saturated with one or more conductors.Type: GrantFiled: April 9, 2020Date of Patent: April 11, 2023Assignee: Zeto, Inc.Inventors: Aswin K. Gunasekar, Christopher Bramley Fruhauf, Florian Strelzyk
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Patent number: 11602632Abstract: Disclosed herein are methods, systems, and devices for dynamically adjusting a user interface provided by an external unit of a hearing device. In an example method, the external unit determines whether a state of the external unit is one of (i) a coupled state when the external unit and the stimulation unit are coupled or (ii) a decoupled state when the external and the stimulation unit are decoupled. The external unit then provides one of (i) a first user interface when the determined state is the coupled state or (ii) a second user interface when the determined state is the decoupled state.Type: GrantFiled: February 15, 2022Date of Patent: March 14, 2023Assignee: Cochlear LimitedInventors: Jan Patrick Frieding, Ivana Popovac
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Patent number: 11565091Abstract: A method for influencing cerebral perfusion in a patient by modifying a volume of a volume adaptor introduced into a cerebral ventricle of the patient, the method comprising identifying a timing of a cerebral blood inflow and/or outflow in a cardiac activity of the patient, modifying a volume of the volume adaptor in synchronization to the identified timing of the cerebral blood flow, to an amount sufficient to modify an intracranial pressure in the cerebral ventricle, such that a flow of the cerebral blood flow is enhanced. In some exemplary embodiments of the invention, the inflation duration of the volume adapter is short relative to the cardiac cycle.Type: GrantFiled: November 16, 2017Date of Patent: January 31, 2023Assignees: Ramot at Tel-Aviv University Ltd., Tel HaShomer Medical Research Infrastructare and Services Ltd., Hadasit Medical Research Services and Development Ltd.Inventors: Ofer Barnea, Omer Doron
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Patent number: 10980440Abstract: An electrode device is disclosed that is removably implantable at least partially in a bone or other tissue. The electrode device includes a head and a shaft connected to the head. The shaft has a shaft body extending distally from the head in an axial direction of the shaft, and a conductive element including a conductive surface at a distal end of the shaft. A plurality of discrete anchor elements can project from an outer surface of the shaft body in a transverse direction of the shaft. A conductive wire can be permanently fixed to a proximal end surface of the conductive element, the end surface being located in or adjacent the head. The head can have a convex outer surface and a concave inner surface. An electrode array and a reamer tool is also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: September 6, 2018Date of Patent: April 20, 2021Assignee: EPI-MINDER PTY LTDInventors: Christopher Edward Williams, Owen Burns
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Patent number: 10893821Abstract: In accordance with at least one aspect of this disclosure, an encephalographic electrode assembly can include a wicking element that has a wick body, one or more long legs extending from the wick body and inserted into the one or more hollow contact probes, and one or more short legs, which are shorter than the long legs, extending from the wick body and inserted into the one or more short reservoir sleeves. The short legs are configured to prevent slide-out of the wicking element from the reservoir body.Type: GrantFiled: May 31, 2018Date of Patent: January 19, 2021Assignee: EncephaloDynamics, Inc.Inventors: James Chris Sackellares, Scott Bearden, Micah Streiff
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Patent number: 10773080Abstract: A system and method for the acute non-invasive treatment of a migraine attack. The system includes at least one skin electrode for placement on the forehead of a patient, and is configured to provide consecutive biphasic electrical pulses via the at least one skin electrode to the supratrochlear and supraorbital nerves of the ophthalmic branch of the trigeminal nerve during a prolonged time span which may be for at least 10 minutes.Type: GrantFiled: May 15, 2018Date of Patent: September 15, 2020Assignee: CEFALY TECHNOLOGY SPRLInventor: Pierre Rigaux
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Patent number: 10248202Abstract: A video display apparatus includes a display configured to reproduce a video, a processor configured to generate a signal for applying an electrical stimulus to a user, based on a motion depicted in the video, and a communication unit configured to transmit the signal to an electrical stimulation apparatus.Type: GrantFiled: January 3, 2017Date of Patent: April 2, 2019Assignee: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.Inventors: Hyun-ki Jung, Hyun-ki Kim, Jae-min Moon, Chi-yul Yoon, Sang-min Lee, Seong-hyun Jang
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Patent number: 10172526Abstract: The system and method of the present application includes a physiological sensor and a motion sensor connected to a patient. The physiological sensor detects patient connection to the sensor and collects a physiological signal while connected. When the physiological sensor is disconnected, the motion sensor data is analyzed. Patterns of sensor connection and patient movement typical for nurse initiated removal compared to accidental or patient initiated removals are created. The alarm protocol may be modified if the disconnection is due to patient movement. The detected movement patterns may include movement measurements that are close to the sensor that detects how the actual disconnection happens, or general movement information for the patient such as whether the patient has been still or has moved before the sensor gets disconnected. By using this information to classify the reason of the sensor removal, a more relevant alarm may be generated.Type: GrantFiled: April 28, 2016Date of Patent: January 8, 2019Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventors: Kimmo Henrik Uutela, Matti Veli Tapani Huiku, Emma Elina Ikonen
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Patent number: 10076279Abstract: An EEG headset including an amplifier assembly, a headband assembly formed of a right and a left headband arm and an amplifier platform, a right and left lateral support assembly, at least one hinge assembly connecting at least one of the right or left lateral support assemblies to at least one of the right or left curved arms, and at least one EEG electrode assembly formed of a lead and an electrode. The electrode is in electrical communication with the amplifier assembly via electrical connections within the headset assembly and one of the right and left lateral support assembly.Type: GrantFiled: October 22, 2014Date of Patent: September 18, 2018Assignee: Neba Health, LLCInventor: Altan Nahum
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Patent number: 9744359Abstract: Methods and devices for verifying that proper visual stimulation is applied to the visual prostheses are described. In one of the methods, a visual stimulation system implanted on a subject is simulated externally. An external testing device is also discussed.Type: GrantFiled: June 10, 2016Date of Patent: August 29, 2017Assignee: Second Sight Medical Products, Inc.Inventors: Neha Vyas, Robert J. Greenberg, Arup Roy, Donald Webber, Richard Agustin Castro, John Reinhold, Kelly McClure
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Patent number: 9713712Abstract: A system for electrically stimulating a user comprising: a first housing portion defining an array of openings; an array of permeable bodies with portions exposed through the array of openings and wetted with a solution that facilitates electrical coupling between the system and a body region of the user, wherein each permeable body has a cavity at a proximal portion and a distal portion and is configured to transmit the solution to the body region of the user; a substrate region defining an array of protrusions configured to support the array of permeable bodies and composed of a conductive polymer; and a set of conductors in communication with the substrate region and including a first conductor that provides a first subset of the array of permeable bodies with a first polarity and a second conductor that provides a second subset of the array of permeable bodies with a second polarity.Type: GrantFiled: November 18, 2016Date of Patent: July 25, 2017Assignee: Halo Neuro, Inc.Inventors: Brett Wingeier, Tal Bar-Or, Colin Davis, Victoria Hammett, Randall Lin
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Patent number: 9532748Abstract: With explosive penetration of portable electronic devices (PEDs) recent focus into consumer EEG devices has been to bring advantages including localized wireless interfacing, portability, and a low-cost high-performance electronics platform to host the processing algorithms to bear. However, most development continues to focus on brain-controlled video games which are nearly identical to those created for earlier, more stationary consumer EEG devices and personal EEG is treated as of a novelty or toy. According to embodiments of the invention the inventors have established new technologies and solutions that address these limitations within the prior art and provide benefits including, but not limited to, global acquisition and storage of acquired EEG data and processed EEG data, development interfaces for expansion and re-analysis of acquired EEG data, integration to other non-EEG derived user data, and long-term user wearability.Type: GrantFiled: April 22, 2014Date of Patent: January 3, 2017Assignee: Personal Neuro Devices Inc.Inventors: Steve Denison, Andrew Stephen Faulkner, Tony Gaitatzis, Arwen Moore, Chad Veinotte, Bruno Daoust, Elliott Alfred Loh
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Patent number: 9433773Abstract: A cranial electrotherapy stimulation (CES) device includes a head support, a control unit configured to provide a stimulating current, and a primary arm module. The primary arm module includes a primary arm and an electrode unit. The primary arm is pivotally connected to the head support and is longitudinally extendible. The electrode unit is disposed at the primary arm and includes an electrode that is electrically coupled to the control unit and that forms a path for transmission of the stimulating current to a stimulating point of a subject when the electrode is placed in direct contact with the stimulating point.Type: GrantFiled: December 24, 2014Date of Patent: September 6, 2016Assignee: Contour Optik Inc.Inventors: David Chao, Chien-Ho Lin, Yung-Chang Chang
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Patent number: 9278208Abstract: Methods, systems, and devices for a deep brain stimulation device using miniaturized components that allow integration with the implanted probe, and includes a skull-sited housing having all the controls and battery power supply for sensing events and generating and transmitting pulses in response to the sensed event. A processor based controller with memory within the skull-sited housing for executing monitoring instructions for sensing initiation of an unwanted electro-physiologically signaled event and recording the event in memory and triggering instructions for activating the stimulator to generate and record a treatment pulse in response to the sensed event and an interface between the processor based controller and a treatment provider for downloading the recorded event and treatment response and modifying the monitoring and triggering sets of instructions.Type: GrantFiled: September 30, 2011Date of Patent: March 8, 2016Assignee: University of Central Florida Research Foundation, Inc.Inventors: Richard D. Gilson, Nizam Razack
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Patent number: 9179850Abstract: A form of neuromodulation is conveyed from an external source to an interior of the skull to modulate neural activity. One or more apertures are formed through or partially through the skull to provide an interface for neuromodulation delivery. Parameters of one or more states of the brain may be sensed through an interface formed with one or more apertures extending all or part of the way through the skull. A device provides an interface between the exterior of the skull and the brain that includes a channel of a length sufficient to traverse the entire thickness of the skull or at least a part of the thickness of the skull. The channels may be configured for ion conduction of electrical signals, enabling DC or near DC stimulation of target neurons.Type: GrantFiled: October 30, 2007Date of Patent: November 10, 2015Assignee: NeuroPace, Inc.Inventors: Brett Wingeier, Benjamin Pless
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Patent number: 9101756Abstract: Various embodiments of a burr hole plug assembly offer significant improvements for allowing lead and/or cannula access through a burr hole drilled through a patient's skull in connection with a Deep Brain Stimulation system, and subsequent sealing of such burr hole.Type: GrantFiled: February 4, 2005Date of Patent: August 11, 2015Assignee: Boston Scientific Neuromodulation CorporationInventors: Anne M Pianca, Carla M Mann, Tom Xiaohai He, Michael Dogali
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Patent number: 9058473Abstract: Techniques are disclosed for authentication and identification of a user by use of an electroencephalographic (EEG) signal. For example, a method for authenticating a user includes the following steps. At least one electroencephalographic response is obtained from a user in accordance with perceptory stimuli presented to the user. The user is authenticated based on the obtained electroencephalographic response. The authenticating step may be based on detection of an event-related potential in the obtained electroencephalographic response. The event-related potential may be a P300 event-related potential. The method may also include the step of enrolling the user prior to authenticating the user. The enrolling step may include a supervised enrollment procedure or an unsupervised enrollment procedure.Type: GrantFiled: August 29, 2007Date of Patent: June 16, 2015Assignee: International Business Machines CorporationInventors: Jiri Navratil, Bhuvana Ramabhadran
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Publication number: 20150148713Abstract: An apparatus for interfacing between tissues being stimulated is provided. The apparatus includes an electric source capable of generating an applied electric field across a region of tissue and/or a means for altering at least one electromagnetic characteristic of the region of tissue relative to the applied electric field and an interface component, such interface component creating an interface between the region of tissue and the applied electric field or the means for altering at least one electromagnetic characteristic of the region of tissue.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 3, 2015Publication date: May 28, 2015Inventors: Timothy Andrew Wagner, Uri Tzvi Eden
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Patent number: 9043001Abstract: Non-invasive electrical nerve stimulation devices and magnetic stimulation devices are disclosed, along with methods of treating medical disorders using energy that is delivered noninvasively by such devices. The disorders comprise migraine and other primary headaches such as cluster headaches, including sinus symptoms that resemble an immune-mediated response (“sinus” headaches), irrespective of whether those symptoms arise from an allergy that is co-morbid with the headache. The disclosed methods may also be used to treat other disorders that may be co-morbid with migraine headaches, such as anxiety disorders. In preferred embodiments of the disclosed methods, one or both of the patient's vagus nerves are stimulated non-invasively. In other embodiments, parts of the sympathetic nervous system and/or the adrenal glands are stimulated.Type: GrantFiled: September 16, 2013Date of Patent: May 26, 2015Assignee: Electrocore, LLCInventors: Bruce J. Simon, Joseph P. Errico, John T. Raffle
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Publication number: 20150142078Abstract: An external, head worn electrical nerve stimulation device is disclosed that includes a head band including inner and outer surfaces, and a plurality of holes each including an interior surface. The device also includes a plurality of mounting baskets disposed within the holes and each including a cylindrical retaining member, and a plurality of biasing arms extending from the interior surface to the retaining member. The biasing arms are to bias the retaining member toward the inner surface, and the head band, the retaining members, and the biasing arms are all monolithically formed as a single piece. Further, the device includes a plurality of electrodes, disposed within the retaining members and biased into engagement with a patient's head. The plurality of electrodes is configured to stimulate, at least one of the greater occipital nerve, the lesser occipital nerve, the supraorbital nerve, the supratrochlear nerve, zygomatotemporal nerve, and the auriculotemporal nerve.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 30, 2015Publication date: May 21, 2015Inventor: Ioannis Mihail Skaribas
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Publication number: 20150141529Abstract: A method for alleviating centralized pain in human subjects includes assessing the brain of a subject suffering from pain, diagnosing abnormal brain function associated with centralized pain, locating at least one area of abnormal brain function associated with the centralized pain, and alleviating the abnormal brain function by applying a cortical stimulation signal to tissues corresponding to the at least one area of abnormal brain function.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 8, 2013Publication date: May 21, 2015Inventor: Jeffrey B. Hargrove
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Patent number: 9037268Abstract: The portable, wearable, proximal Alzheimer's disease treatment invention is based upon creating an RF field of particular frequencies and intensities that are applied to the patient's head. To accomplish the aforementioned disease treatment functionality, a system was invented comprising a network of antennas connected to an RF generator via a feedline connector. The invention also provides methods for using measurements to monitor and manage the effectiveness of an ongoing disease treatment regimen, and databases which contain information about measurements, variables, and their relationships to clinical outcome.Type: GrantFiled: September 11, 2013Date of Patent: May 19, 2015Inventor: Eric A. Knight
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Publication number: 20150133761Abstract: A three-dimensional neural probe electrode array system is described. Planar probes are microfabricated and electrically connected to flexible micro-machined ribbon cables using a rivet bonding technique. The distal end of each cable is connected to a probe with the proximal end of the cable being customized for connection to a printed circuit board. Final assembly consists of combining multiple such assemblies into a single structure. Each of the two-dimensional neural probe arrays is positioned into a micro-machined platform that provides mechanical support and alignment for each array. Lastly, a micro-machined cap is placed on top of each neural electrode probe and cable assembly to protect them from damage during shipping and subsequent use. The cap provides a relatively planar surface for attachment of a computer controlled inserter for precise insertion into the tissue.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 10, 2014Publication date: May 14, 2015Inventors: Rio J. Vetter, Jamille Farraye Hetke, David S. Pellinen, Bencharong Suwarato, Kc Kong
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Publication number: 20150119968Abstract: A stimulation device for the application of a transcutaneous electric stimulation stimulus onto the surface of a section of the human ear, which includes a holding element an electrode arranged in a electrode carrier. The holding element has a linear guide. A resting part is arranged at the holding element. The holding rod has a first axis and runs from a first position, which adjoins to the linear guide, to a second position, which adjoins to the electrode carrier. The resting part defines a first plane with a resting area at the ear, on which area a second axis is arranged perpendicular. The first axis and the second axis span a middle plane. The holding rod lies at the first position in the middle plane and departs from the middle plane from the run from the first position to the second position in a first rod section until a reversal point.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 28, 2014Publication date: April 30, 2015Inventors: Thomas ZSCHAECK, Stefan BAER, Andreas HARTLEP, Wolf Gerhard FRENKEL
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Patent number: 9020598Abstract: Non-invasive electrical nerve stimulation devices and magnetic stimulation devices are disclosed, along with methods of treating medical disorders using energy that is delivered noninvasively by such devices. The disorders comprise migraine and other primary headaches such as cluster headaches, including sinus symptoms that resemble an immune-mediated response (“sinus” headaches), irrespective of whether those symptoms arise from an allergy that is co-morbid with the headache. The disclosed methods may also be used to treat other disorders that may be co-morbid with migraine headaches, such as anxiety disorders. In preferred embodiments of the disclosed methods, one or both of the patient's vagus nerves are stimulated non-invasively. In other embodiments, parts of the sympathetic nervous system and/or the adrenal glands are stimulated.Type: GrantFiled: September 16, 2013Date of Patent: April 28, 2015Assignee: ElectroCore, LLCInventors: Bruce J. Simon, Joseph P. Errico, John T. Raffle
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Patent number: 9014823Abstract: Non-invasive electrical nerve stimulation devices and magnetic stimulation devices are disclosed, along with methods of treating medical disorders using energy that is delivered noninvasively by such devices. The disorders comprise migraine and other primary headaches such as cluster headaches, including sinus symptoms that resemble an immune-mediated response (“sinus” headaches), irrespective of whether those symptoms arise from an allergy that is co-morbid with the headache. The disclosed methods may also be used to treat other disorders that may be co-morbid with migraine headaches, such as anxiety disorders. In preferred embodiments of the disclosed methods, one or both of the patient's vagus nerves are stimulated non-invasively. In other embodiments, parts of the sympathetic nervous system and/or the adrenal glands are stimulated.Type: GrantFiled: September 16, 2013Date of Patent: April 21, 2015Assignee: ElectroCore, LLCInventors: Bruce J. Simon, Joseph P. Errico, John T. Raffle
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Patent number: 9008780Abstract: Methods for bridging brain sites between which there is substantially no effective communication, and associated neural prosthetic devices, are provided. A neural spike in a first neural site in a subject is detected, and a stimulus to a second neural site in the subject is delivered within a defined period of time after the detection of the neural spike, wherein there is substantially no effective communication between the first and second neural sites. The method forms an artificial bridge between the two neural sites, and establishes lasting communication between the two sites. The present disclosure provides, among other things, a neural prosthetic device comprising an integrated circuit that comprises a recording front-end comprising a plurality of recording channels; a processor unit; and a stimulus delivering back-end comprising a plurality of stimulation channels.Type: GrantFiled: June 14, 2012Date of Patent: April 14, 2015Assignees: Case Western Reserve University, University of KansasInventors: Randolph J. Nudo, David Guggenmos, Pedram Mohseni, Meysam Azin
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Publication number: 20150080986Abstract: The invention relates to a device for applying a transcutaneous electrical stimulation stimulus to the surface of a section of the human ear, which comprises a retaining element which is mountable on or in the ear and a number of electrodes which are arranged on or in an electrode carrier, wherein the device comprises a control apparatus which controls or regulates the generation of a potential difference between the electrodes. In order to permit an improved and safer transcutaneous stimulation the invention proposes that at least three electrodes are arranged on or in the electrode carrier, wherein the at least three electrodes are located in one plane, wherein the position of at least one of the at least three electrodes is adjustable on the electrode carrier and wherein the at least one electrode of which the position is adjustable is mounted such as to be displaceable in a translational manner in the plane. Furthermore, the invention relates a method for the operation of such a device.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 18, 2013Publication date: March 19, 2015Applicant: cerbomed GmbHInventors: Jens ELLRICH, Christoph BECK, Wolf Gerhard FRENKEL, Andreas HARTLEP
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Patent number: 8977364Abstract: An external, head worn electrical nerve stimulation device, including a power source and a head band configured to fit around a patient's head, the patient's head including a front portion, a rear portion opposite the front portion, a first lateral side, and a second lateral side opposite the first lateral side. The device further includes a plurality of electrical electrodes circumferentially disposed along the head band, wherein the plurality of electrodes contacts each of the front portion, the rear portion, the first lateral side, and the second lateral side. The plurality of electrical electrodes is configured to stimulate, with electrical current, at least one of the greater occipital nerve, the lesser occipital nerve, the supraorbital nerve, the supratrochlear nerve, zygomatotemporal nerve, and the auriculotemporal nerve when the electrodes are energized by the power source.Type: GrantFiled: May 2, 2013Date of Patent: March 10, 2015Inventors: Ioannis Mihail Skaribas, Christopher Atkinson Durst
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Publication number: 20150025590Abstract: A physical health cap application system include an electrode cap configured to fit the head of any person, and a main unit including a DC-stimulator plus and a positive and negative DC current generator unit electrically connected to the electrode cap for controlling the electrode cap to discharge a direct electrical current into predetermined regions of interest in the cerebral cortex of the head of a person to help relieve pain.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 17, 2013Publication date: January 22, 2015Inventor: Chih-Lung Cheng
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Publication number: 20150018925Abstract: A stimulation device for transcutaneous electric stimulation stimulus onto the surface of a section of the human ear comprises a holding element attached at or in the ear and at least two electrodes arranged in or at an electrode carrier, wherein the at least two electrodes are separated from another at the electrode carrier by an electrically isolating section. To obtain a good electrical conductibility of the electrodes at high ear comfort, the at least two electrodes are covered by a casing element, the casing element comprises at least two cover elements, wherein each of the at least two cover elements comprises a retaining region for an electrode; the material of the cover elements is electrically conductive or can be made electrically conductive; the casing element comprises at least one isolation section made of electrically isolating material; the isolating section connects at least two cover elements with another.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 9, 2014Publication date: January 15, 2015Inventors: Thomas ZSCHAECK, Andreas HARTLEP
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Publication number: 20150018926Abstract: A stimulation device for transcutaneous electric stimulation stimulus onto the surface of a section of the human ear comprises a holding element attached at or in the ear, at least two electrodes arranged in or at an electrode carrier. To obtain high contact quality of the electrodes with high wearing comfort, the holding element consists of one part designed as holding bow for placement between the surface of the head and the Pinna (P) of the device wearer, the other part designed as connection element between the holding bow and the electrode carrier; between the holding bow and the connection element a hinge joint is arranged such that use of the device allows swivel movement of the connection element relatively to the holding bow around an axis (S) parallel or under an angle (?) of less than 30° to the straight ahead viewing direction (G) of the device wearer.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 9, 2014Publication date: January 15, 2015Inventors: Wolf Gerhard FRENKEL, Thomas ZSCHAECK, Andreas HARTLEP
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Patent number: 8934983Abstract: The present invention is a system for mapping a high resolution image to a lower resolution electrode array and, by applying varying stimulus to neighboring electrodes, creating a perceived image greater in resolution than the electrode array. The invention is applicable to a wide range of neural stimulation devices including artificial vision and artificial hearing. By applying a sub-threshold stimulus to two neighboring electrodes where the sum of the stimuli is above the threshold of perception, a perception is created in neural tissue between the two electrodes. By adjusting the stimulus on neighboring electrodes, the location of stimulation can be altered. Further, noise can be applied to the stimulating electrode or its neighboring electrodes to reduce the threshold of stimulation.Type: GrantFiled: October 10, 2012Date of Patent: January 13, 2015Assignee: Second Sight Medical Products, Inc.Inventors: Robert J Greenberg, Richard Williamson
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Patent number: 8914123Abstract: The invention concerns a method for performing an electric inhibition of the facial muscles for purely aesthetic purposes, using a device comprising a support at the head of a user (1), two contact electrodes (2), an electronic circuit (3) for generating low-voltage electric pulses at said electrodes (2), a direct current electric power supply (4) and means for fixing and locking (7) said components on the head. The invention is characterized in that it includes the following steps: placing the electrodes (2) on either side of the upper part of the nose, at the glabella; passing the electric pulses via the electrodes (2) through the pyramidal muscle of the nose so as to cause said pyramidal muscle of the nose to relax and hence its antagonist muscle, the forehead muscle and the double eyebrow muscle.Type: GrantFiled: September 7, 2005Date of Patent: December 16, 2014Assignee: Cefaly Technology SPRLInventor: Pierre Rigaux
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Patent number: 8909344Abstract: A self-contained portable head worn device and methods to stimulate a portion of the brain of a wearer are presented. A first electrode is held by the head worn device against the scalp of the wearer in a first location and a second electrode is held against the scalp of the wearer in a second location. A pulse generator generates a first electric signal received by the first electrode and a second electric signal received by the second electrode. A power source is connected to the pulse generator.Type: GrantFiled: March 7, 2013Date of Patent: December 9, 2014Inventors: Jeffrey Edward Arle, Jay Lawrence Shils
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Patent number: 8903494Abstract: Described herein are devices, systems, and methods for transdermal electrical stimulation. Devices described herein can include self-contained, lightweight, and wearable components. The devices include a primary unit including a first transdermal electrode and a secondary unit including a second transdermal electrode. The device can be capable of wireless communication. The primary unit and secondary unit are placed at two locations on the skin of a user, for example on the head or neck of a user. The first and second transdermal electrodes are electrically connected. Electrical stimulation is driven between the two electrodes. The electrical stimulation induces a cognitive effect in a user of the device.Type: GrantFiled: November 26, 2013Date of Patent: December 2, 2014Assignee: thync, inc.Inventors: Isy Goldwasser, William J. Tyler, Alexander Opitz, Tomokazu Sato, Jonathan Charlesworth, Sumon K. Pal, Philip Lamb, Christopher Voss, Steven Cook, Remi Demers, Raymond L. Gradwohl, Daniel Z. Wetmore
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Patent number: 8897895Abstract: An implant unit according to some embodiments may include a flexible carrier, at least one pair of modulation electrodes on the flexible carrier, and at least one implantable circuit in electrical communication with the at least one pair of modulation electrodes. The at least one pair of modulation electrodes and the at least one circuit may be configured for implantation through derma on an underside of a subject's chin and for location proximate to terminal fibers of the medial branch of the subject's hypoglossal nerve, such that an electric field extending from the at least one pair of modulation electrodes can modulate one or more of the terminal fibers of the medial branch of the hypoglossal nerve.Type: GrantFiled: September 30, 2013Date of Patent: November 25, 2014Inventor: Adi Mashiach
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Publication number: 20140324146Abstract: Stand-alone apparatus intended to be fastened on to a body part, comprising a bipolar electrode (1), a light electronic device (2), means for the mechanical fastening of the electronic apparatus (2) to the electrode (1) and means enabling the electrical current to flow from the electronic apparatus (2) to the electrode (1) and vice versa. Said fastening means comprise two permanent magnets (4) located on the electronic apparatus (2), each of which is electrically conductive and capable of cooperating with a magnetisable metal zone (3) located on the side of the electrode (1) opposite the side intended to be in contact with the skin.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 10, 2014Publication date: October 30, 2014Applicant: STX-Med SprlInventor: Pierre-Yves Muller