Abstract: The present disclosure relates to methods, devices and systems used for the treatment of mood, anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder, and cognitive and behavioral disorders (collectively, neuropsychiatric disorders) via stimulation of the superficial elements of the trigeminal nerve (“TNS”). More specifically, cutaneous methods of stimulation of the superficial branches of the trigeminal nerve located extracranially in the face, namely the supraorbital, supratrochlear, infraorbital, auriculotemporal, zygomaticotemporal, zygomaticoorbital, zygomaticofacial, infraorbital, nasal and mentalis nerves (also referred to collectively as the superficial trigeminal nerve) are disclosed herein.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a headband for use in neurostimulation made at least partly of elastic or stretch material comprising: a hole to be located directly on the rear part of the scalp of a user, said hole being sized to fit the inion or occipital protuberantia; at least two electrodes directly attached to the headband and positioned adjacent to and symmetric about said hole, designed so that to be applied on the right and left branch of the occipital nerve respectively, once the inion is put in correspondence with said hole by the user; a connector for connecting a wearable neurostimulator to the headband, said connector being located opposite to said hole, once the headband is worn by the user and means coupled to the elastic or stretch material for electrically connecting said connector and each of said electrodes.

Abstract: A system for securing at least one electrode to an anatomy is provided. The system can include a first plate, which can include at least one first passage. The at least one first passage can be configured to receive a lead of the at least one electrode. The system can also include a second plate configured to move relative to the first plate. The movement of the second plate relative to the first plate can couple the second plate to the first plate such that the second plate at least partially occludes the at least one passage of the first plate to secure the lead of the at least one electrode to the anatomy.

Abstract: A system for treatment of biological tissues is provided. The system includes a lens having a hollow, substantially hemispherical shape with an outer surface and an inner surface, the inner surface defining a substantially hemispherical cavity for inserting the biological tissues. The system further includes an antenna assembly for generating and directing electromagnetic radiation towards the outer surface. In the system, the lens is configured to direct the electromagnetic energy to an area in the cavity, a dielectric constant of the lens at the inner surface substantially matches a dielectric constant of the biological tissues, the dielectric constant monotonically increases from the outer surface to the inner surface, and the electromagnetic energy is generated via a series of pulses having a transient of less than about 1 nanosecond.

Abstract: Deep brain electrodes are remotely sensed and activated by means of a remote active implantable medical device (AIMD). In a preferred form, a pulse generator is implanted in the pectoral region and includes a hermetic seal through which protrudes a conductive leadwire which provides an external antenna for transmission and reception of radio frequency (RF) pulses. One or more deep brain electrode modules are constructed and placed which can transmit and receive RF energy from the pulse generator. An RF telemetry link is established between the implanted pulse generator and the deep brain electrode assemblies. The satellite modules are configured for generating pacing pulses for a variety of disease conditions, including epileptic seizures, Turrets Syndrome, Parkinson's Tremor, and a variety of other neurological or brain disorders.

Abstract: The invention relates to a electrode arrangement (1) for the application of a transcutaneous electric stimulation stimulus onto the surface of a section of the human ear (2), which comprises a holding element (3) to be arranged at or in the ear (2) as well as at least on electrode (4, 5), which electrode (4, 5) is arranged in an electrode carrier (6). To allow a simple and comfortable application of the electrode arrangement at the ear and to influence the hearing during wearing of the electrode arrangement as little as possible the invention suggests that the holding element (3) comprises a linear guide (7) in which a holding bar (8) is arranged linear movably in the direction of a longitudinal axis (L) of the holding element (3), wherein the electrode carrier (6) is arranged at the holding bar (8).

Abstract: Anchors for securing a therapy device such as a therapy catheter relative to a burr hole, and systems and methods for using the same. Anchors in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure may include a connector for securing the therapy catheter to a delivery catheter, wherein the connector is independently and removably attachable to the anchor. The connector may secure the therapy catheter relative to the burr hole and isolate forces that may otherwise tend to disrupt the placement of the therapy catheter.

Abstract: A headband for retaining electrodes in position on a patient's head is disclosed, having an adjustable frame, straps for holding electrodes against the head, each strap fastened to the headband by an adjustable support, and the supports having weights removably coupled thereto such that gravity pulls the headband down against the electrodes. The headband may be used for transcranial electrical stimulation treatment or other treatment by electrodes. Further disclosed is a method of retaining electrodes on a patient's head, having the steps of positioning a headband having straps on the head, tightening the headband and straps, inserting electrodes between the straps of the headband and the head, mounting weights to bias the headband downwardly, and loosening the straps for greater comfort. The headband and straps may have markings to facilitate placement according to an electrode marking system.

Abstract: The present invention relates to systems and techniques for stimulating a user. For example, materials and methods for manipulating nystagmus and the related vestibular system with coupling of galvanic vestibular stimulation (GVS) and visual cueing are provided herein. Use of GVS within the present invention may be applied to simulation, alleviating motion sickness, and directional cueing of a user to a precise target location.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: An ECT system capable of focusing the electrical signals on a specific portion of the patient's brain is provided. The ECT system includes a means of applying unidirectional electrical signals and asymmetric electrodes for focusing the signals on the patient. A method of titrating an electro-convulsive therapy (ECT) system and a method of operating an ECT system are also provided. The method includes setting an initial current value, administering an ECT signal to the patient, determining if the seizure threshold has been achieved, and repeating as necessary until the seizure threshold is achieved.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for inducing relaxation or sleep comprising the steps of: placing electrodes in contact with the forehead skin in the supraorbital region; generating an electrical signal with a signal generator and applying said signal to the electrodes so as to produce external, i.e. non invasive, neurostimulation of the upper branch of the trigeminal nerve.

Abstract: The invention relates to an electrode arrangement for applying of a transcutaneous electrical stimulation stimulus onto the surface of a section of the human ear, which comprises a holding element to be attached at or in the ear as well as at least one electrode, which electrode is arranged in or at an electrode carrier, wherein the holding element comprises a linear guide in which a supporting rod is arranged linear movable in the direction of a longitudinal axis (L) of the holding element and wherein the electrode carrier is arranged at the supporting rod. To obtain an improved transcutaneous stimulation the invention proposes that the electrode carrier comprises at least one carrier section on which the electrode is arranged, wherein the electrode comprises at least one cylindrical and/or spherical segment shaped and/or conical surface section.

Abstract: The invention relates to facial stimulation apparatus configured to be worn in a generally horizontal orientation on a user's head, and which uses the ear (14) as an anatomical reference to ensure correct and repeatable placement of skin electrodes (16a,16b) overlying the human facial nerves (1-5) to facilitate Electrical Muscle Stimulation (EMS). The apparatus is provided with a headband (22) having a bend or inclination (24) proximate a distal portion (20) thereof on which the electrodes (16a,16b) are attached. The apparatus is provided with an unambiguous location feature such that a vector component between said location feature and the electrode pair (16a, 16b) is fixed and non-adjustable thus ensuring repeatable and accurate positioning of each electrode (16a, 16b). The apparatus overcomes problems inherent in known devices and, in particular, requires no anatomical knowledge on the part of the end user for its safe and most effective placement.

Abstract: Systems, apparatus and methods are described for applying electric current to neurons in the brain to treat disorders and to improve motor and/or memory functions in a patient. In a method according to the invention, an electrode is positioned adjacent to and spaced from the skin surface of the patient's head and an electric current is applied through the electrode to a target region in the brain to modulate one or more neurons in the target region. The electrode is housed within an enclosure and spaced from the skin surface so that the electrode does not directly contact the patient's tissue, which reduces the potential for collateral tissue damage or necrosis and shields the electrode from the patient's tissue which substantially inhibits Faradic products (e.g., H+, OH?, H2O2) of the electrode from reaching the target site.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device for the punctual stimulation of endings, located in the region of the ears, of nerves leading to brain stem nuclei, and device (1) having a battery-powered therapeutic current generator (3), which is arranged in a housing (2) to be worn in the ear region and is provided with an electronic circuit that forms a low-frequency therapeutic current, and said device also having at least one flexible line (5) proceeding from the therapeutic current generator (3) for connecting to an electrode to be positioned at a nerve ending and having a base electrode (7), which is likewise connected to the therapeutic current generator and by means of which the therapeutic circuit leading across the former electrode is closed, wherein the device (1), at least by means of an external part of said device (1), can be adapted to the shape of the body point of patient intended for the positioning of the device due to a mechanically pliable structure.

Abstract: Electrical-stimulation device with gel-dispensing kit, and a method of making and using the parts of the kit. A convenient and easy-to-use system to provide an electrically conductive path from a transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) device to the skin surface of a patient to supply transcutaneous stimulation, even through hair. The invention provides improved prevention and treatment for headache, depression, alertness, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), epilepsy, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and behavioral and/or other disorders. Some embodiments provide a headache-treatment system that includes an electrode base shaped to conform to a back of a human head; a TENS having projecting spring electrodes each connected to the electrode base; means for holding an electrically conductive gel in a plurality of sealed pockets; and means for unsealing the means for holding the gel and applying the gel substantially simultaneously to the projecting spring electrodes.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: Techniques are disclosed for recharging an Implantable Medical Device (IMD). In one embodiment, a first external coil is positioned on one side of a patient's body, such as on a front side of the torso in proximity to the IMD. A second external coil is positioned on an opposite side of the patient's body, such as on the back of the torso. A recharging device generates a current in each of the coils, inductively coupling the first and the second coils to the secondary recharge coil of the IMD. According to another aspect, each of the two external coils may wrap around a portion of the patient's body, such as the torso or head, and are positioned such that the IMD lies between the coils. According to this aspect, current generated in the coils inductively couples to a second recharge coil that is angled within the patient's body.

Abstract: Transcutaneous 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 nasal or paranasal sinus symptoms that resemble an immune-mediated response (“sinus” headaches). The devices and methods may also be used to treat rhinitis, sinusitis, or rhinosinusitis, irrespective of whether those disorders are co-morbid with a headache. They may also be used to treat other disorders that may be co-morbid with migraine or cluster 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.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for converting one type of speech processor unit into another type of speech processor unit.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: An electrode set is disclosed that has two separable parts including an assembled base with printed circuit board basement, biasing member and top cover and an electrode. The basement and top cover may be made by metal or conductive material.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device and a method for transcranial, non-invasive, electrical deep-brain stimulation, of the kind used in particular in the treatment of neurological and psychiatric disorders and of disturbances of the motor/cognitive functions in the human brain, wherein the device has at least one signal generator for generating an electrical alternating-current signal, an electrode arrangement, which can be placed on the head of a person to be treated and can be connected electrically to the signal generator so as to apply an alternating-current signal, wherein the electrode arrangement can be used to apply at least two alternating-current signals, of which the trajectories cross the region of the brain to be treated, such that their alternating currents are superposed, as a result of which the region of the brain to be treated is stimulated by electrical alternating currents in a targeted manner, whereas adjacent regions of the brain are stimulated only slightly or not at all.

Abstract: A biomedical electrode is disclosed that includes at least first and second electrical nodes for connection to medical equipment. The biomedical electrode includes a first electrical node including a disc of conductive material having a diameter d1, and a second electrical node including a ring of conductive material. The ring is concentric with the disc and has a diameter d2 that is larger than d1 and having a ring thickness t2 such that (4?d1/t2?6).

Abstract: A method of reducing muscle pain in a person by removably attaching an electrode to each ear on a person's head and connecting the electrodes to receive a modified pulse signal from a computer or a digital port. The signal from the computer or the digital port are rectangular voltage pulses of “1s” and “0s” at varying frequencies. The rectangular pulse signal from the computer or digital port is modified to have at least the leading square corner of each of the rectangular voltage pulses rounded before it is sent to the electrodes. A method of randomizing the stimulus at about 100 Hz for improved sleep and an alternate method of randomizing stimuli for the neurological reduction of perceived pain and a similar method for reducing pain output from a muscle and its associated tissues directly.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a headband for use in neurostimulation made at least partly of elastic or stretch material comprising: a hole (2) to be located directly on the rear part of the scalp (8) of a user, said hole being sized to fit the inion or occipital protuberantia; at least two electrodes (1) directly attached to the headband and positioned adjacent to and symmetric about said hole (2, designed so that to be applied on the right and left branch of the occipital nerve (7) respectively, once the inion is put in correspondence with said hole (2) by the user; a connector (6A) for connecting a wearable neurostimulator (6) to the headband, said connector (6A) being located opposite to said hole (2), once the headband is worn by the user and means coupled to the elastic or stretch material for electrically connecting said connector (6A) and each of said electrodes (1).

Abstract: The invention relates to a electrode arrangement (1) for the application of a transcutaneous electric stimulation stimulus onto the surface of a section of the human ear (2), which comprises a holding element (3) to be arranged at or in the ear (2) as well as at least on electrode (4, 5), which electrode (4, 5) is arranged in an electrode carrier (6). To allow a simple and comfortable application of the electrode arrangement at the ear and to influence the hearing during wearing of the electrode arrangement as little as possible the invention suggests that the holding element (3) comprises a linear guide (7) in which a holding bar (8) is arranged linear movably in the direction of a longitudinal axis (L) of the holding element (3), wherein the electrode carrier (6) is arranged at the holding bar (8).

Abstract: An electrode that functions alone, in clusters or arrays can be used to measure and/or deliver voltages through skin covered with hair by achieving reliable skin contact. In one form, a composite metal electrode has several raised points capable of passing through hair to contact the skin directly between hairs. Electrode points are distributed evenly over a flat circular or curved base to create a composite electrode or cluster in which all electrode points electrically couple to one another and to an output device. In another form of the invention, each electrode point is connected by a separate conductor wire to a selector that evaluates the signal during use and determines which of the electrode points are to be coupled to an output device.

Abstract: A battery-operated transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulator (TENS) to treat headache pain in an abortive and/or preventive manner. The TENS unit and its electrodes are built into a unitary device which facilitates a self-administered treatment. In some embodiments, the pulses are monophasic. In other embodiments, pairs of biphasic pulses are provided, wherein each pair of biphasic pulses includes a first pulse having a first polarity separated by a gap in time from a second pulsed having an opposite polarity. In some embodiments, each pulse in each biphasic pair is of a duration equal to that of the other pulse of the pair. In some embodiments, the duration of each pulse is between about 50 microseconds and about 400 microseconds, and the gap in time between pulses of a pair is between about 50 and 100 microseconds.

Abstract: The invention relates to an electrode arrangement for applying of a transcutaneous electrical stimulation stimulus onto the surface of a section of the human ear, which comprises a holding element to be attached at or in the ear as well as at least one electrode, which electrode is arranged in or at an electrode carrier, wherein the holding element comprises a linear guide in which a supporting rod is arranged linear movable in the direction of a longitudinal axis (L) of the holding element and wherein the electrode carrier is arranged at the supporting rod. To obtain an improved transcutaneous stimulation the invention proposes that the electrode carrier comprises at least one carrier section on which the electrode is arranged, wherein the electrode comprises at least one cylindrical and/or spherical segment shaped and/or conical surface section.

Abstract: The present invention is a visor for retinal stimulation of visually impaired subjects. The visor comprises a frame, an external coil, a camera and a mounting system. A connector allows the external coil to be positioned along a first direction. A sliding device allows the external coil to be positioned along a second direction. Positioning of the visor on a subject's nose allows the external coil to be positioned along a third direction. Positioning of the external coil along the first, second or third direction is useful to maximize coupling RF coupling between the external coil and an internal coil implanted on a subject wearing the visor.

Abstract: An integrated system and method for treatment of various diseases, including psychiatric, mental and brain disorders, which preferably combines personalized non-invasive neuronal brain stimulation together with appropriate personalized cognitive training, and which iteratively fine-tunes this treatment by monitoring specific cognitive and brain functions in response to the treatment. A novel brain stimulator device and method, Computerized Magnetic Photo-Electric Stimulator (CCMPES), is described, which integrates electromagnetic stimulation with laser stimulation to generate a magnetic photo-electric stimulation.

Abstract: Deep brain electrodes are remotely sensed and activated by means of a remote active implantable medical device (AIMD). In a preferred form, a pulse generator is implanted in the pectoral region and includes a hermetic seal through which protrudes a conductive leadwire which provides an external antenna for transmission and reception of radio frequency (RF) pulses. One or more deep brain electrode modules are constructed and placed which can transmit and receive RF energy from the pulse generator. An RF telemetry link is established between the implanted pulse generator and the deep brain electrode assemblies. The satellite modules are configured for generating pacing pulses for a variety of disease conditions, including epileptic seizures, Turrets Syndrome, Parkinson's Tremor, and a variety of other neurological or brain disorders.

Abstract: A hearing assistance system includes a hearing assistance unit, with an interface for receiving a removable module, and a removable module configured to be retained in the interface.

Abstract: This disclosure relates to a micro manipulator having a simple structure and having high possibility of recording a biological signal of a neuron at a desired position by improving positioning resolution of an electrode disposed adjacent to a subject's brain neuron or an electrode holder attached with the electrode. The micro manipulator according to the disclosure includes: a motor which includes a shaft and a vibration portion; a mobile which is connected to the shaft so as to be movable along the shaft; and a frame which supports the motor, wherein an electrode is connected to the mobile in a direction parallel to a longitudinal direction of the shaft, and wherein when the mobile moves linearly in accordance with a vibration of the shaft due to the vibration portion, the electrode moves linearly.

Abstract: A device is for the electrotherapeutic treatment of headaches such as tension headaches and migraines. An electrode support (10) has a shape and is size selected so as to allow, independently from the subject, the excitation of the afferent paths of the supratrochlear (2) and supraorbital (3) nerves of the ophthalmic branch (1) of the trigeminal nerve. An electrical circuit includes a programmable signal generator suitable for creating pulses of a duration of between 150 and 450 microseconds with a maximum increase in intensity of 0 to 20 milliamperes at a rate of less than or equal to 40 microamperes per second and with a step up in intensity not exceeding 50 microamperes.

Abstract: A system for securing at least one electrode to an anatomy is provided. The system can include a first plate, which can include at least one first passage. The at least one first passage can be configured to receive a lead of the at least one electrode. The system can also include a second plate configured to move relative to the first plate. The movement of the second plate relative to the first plate can at least partially occlude the at least one passage of the first plate to secure the lead of the at least one electrode to the anatomy.

Abstract: An electrode set is disclosed that has two separable parts including an assembled base with printed circuit board basement, biasing member and top cover and an electrode. The basement and top cover may be made by metal or conductive material.

Abstract: According to one aspect, a stimulation system is provided for electrically stimulating a predetermined site to treat a neurological condition. The system includes an electrical stimulation lead adapted for implantation in communication with a predetermined site, wherein the site is brain tissue site. The stimulation lead includes one or more stimulation electrodes adapted to be positioned in the predetermined site. The system also includes a stimulation source that generates the stimulation pulses for transmission to the one or more stimulation electrodes of the stimulation lead to deliver the stimulation pulses to the predetermined site to treat a neurological disorder or condition.

Abstract: A biomedical electrode is disclosed that includes at least first and second electrical nodes for connection to medical equipment. The biomedical electrode includes a first electrical node including a disc of conductive material having a diameter d1, and a second electrical node including a ring of conductive material. The ring is concentric with the disc and has a diameter d2 that is larger than d1 and having a ring thickness t2 such that (4?d1/t2?6).

Abstract: According to one aspect, a method of treating a patient by electrically stimulating a predetermined site to treat a neurological condition. The method includes implanting a lead into subcutaneous tissue of the C2 dermatome/C3 dermatome area.

Abstract: A sensor system is used for measuring, transmitting, processing and displaying a brain parameter. The sensor system has at least one implantable brain parameter sensor with a wireless transmission unit for measuring the brain parameter. At least one receiving unit with an antenna is in wireless signal connection with the latter. At least one data read module is in signal connection with the antenna and a data processing and display device is in turn in signal connection with said data read module. The sensor system also has a head cap or a head hood, on which the receiving unit is fixed to predetermine a relative position relative to the transmitting unit. A sensor system is the result, the use of which remains comfortable for the patient even over a relatively long measuring period.

Abstract: A method of reducing muscle pain in a person by removably attaching an electrode to each ear on a person's head and connecting the electrodes to receive a modified pulse signal from a computer or a digital port. The signal from the computer or the digital port are rectangular voltage pulses of “1s” and “0s” at varying frequencies. The rectangular pulse signal from the computer or digital port is modified to have at least the leading square corner of each of the rectangular voltage pulses rounded before it is sent to the electrodes. A method of randomizing the stimulus at about 100 Hz for improved sleep and an alternate method of randomizing stimuli for the neurological reduction of perceived pain and a similar method for reducing pain output from a muscle and its associated tissues directly.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a kit, for securing a lead or cannula within a burr hole, comprises: a base structure to be positioned immediately adjacent to or partially within the burr hole; a lead securing member for securing the lead within the burr hole, the lead securing member comprising a first arm structure and a second arm structure, at least one spring loaded structure adapted to exert a force to bring the first arm structure and the second arm structure together; and a positioning tool having a distal end adapted to be inserted within the lead securing member; wherein when the distal end of the positioning tool is positioned within the lead securing member, the distal end holds the first and second arm structures a sufficient distance apart to receive a lead or a cannula between the first and second arm structures.

Abstract: An adjustable implant electrode system comprises an adjustable implant electrode assembly and an adjustment device for adjusting the adjustable implant electrode assembly to a desired position. The adjustable implant electrode assembly comprises an implant, a plurality of electrodes, and a plurality of magnetic components. The electrodes are disposed in the implant for providing stimulating currents according to a control signal. The magnetic components are combined with the electrodes in one-to-one correspondence. The adjustment device comprises a control unit, an excitation unit, and one or more magnetic units. The control unit is used to select one or more magnetic components to be moved from the magnetic components, and the excitation unit is used to excite the selected one or more magnetic components for the same to generate a magnetic pole, and the magnetic unit is adapted to generate a magnetic field to drive the magnetic pole and accordingly move the implant.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: Methods and devices for verifying that proper visual stimulation is applied to the visual prostheses are described. In one of the methods, a retinal stimulation system implanted on a subject is simulated externally. An external testing device is also discussed.

Abstract: There is provided a cochlear implant for improving the hearing ability of a patient suffered from hearing impairment comprising an internal receiving unit implanted into the body, which comprises a receiving part for receiving external signal, an active electrode and a reference electrode, characterized in that the active electrode is constructed with a single electrode wire having different thickness in at least two different regions. The active electrode of the internal receiving unit is inserted into a space formed at between the mastoid bone and the ear canal skin and end of the active electrode is inserted into the scala tympani of the cochlea and directly stimulates spiral ganglion. The cochlear implant provides easier implantation into the body and improved hearing ability at a lower cost.