Control Signal Storage (e.g., Programming) Patents (Class 607/59)
  • Patent number: 10376699
    Abstract: An example includes machine-implemented method of providing therapy to a patient using a plurality of electrodes implanted within the patient that includes receiving, via a programmer for an electrical stimulator, user input that at least partially defines a neuromodulation field to provide the therapy, based on the received user input, determining a subset of the plurality of electrodes and current distributions for the subset to generate the field, comparing an electrode limit to a number of electrodes in the determined subset and eliminating at least one of the number of electrodes in the determined subset based on the comparison to provide a reduced subset of the electrodes, and redistributing current associated with the at least one eliminated electrode to at least one of the electrodes in the reduced subset of electrodes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2019
    Assignee: Boston Scientific Neuromodulation Corporation
    Inventor: David Ernest Wechter
  • Patent number: 10350404
    Abstract: Method and systems for determining a set of stimulation parameters for an implantable stimulation device include receiving a set of stimulation parameters including at least one electrode for delivery of stimulation and a stimulation amplitude for each electrode; determining, using the set of stimulation parameters, an axial stimulation field for neural elements oriented axially with respect to a longitudinal axis of the lead; and outputting the first axial stimulation field for viewing by a user; receiving, by the computer processor. The methods and systems can be used to model other neural elements oriented non-orthogonally with respect to the longitudinal axis of the lead and determine a non-orthogonal stimulation field.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2017
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2019
    Assignee: BOSTON SCIENTIFIC NEUROMODULATION CORPORATION
    Inventors: Tianhe Zhang, G. Karl Steinke, Richard Mustakos
  • Patent number: 10339081
    Abstract: A hardware based block moving controller of an active device such as an implantable medical device that provides electrical stimulation reads a parameter data from a block of memory and then writes the parameter data to a designated register set of a component that performs an active function. The block of memory may include data that specifies a size of the block of memory to be moved to the register set. The block of memory may also include data that indicates a number of triggers to skip before moving a next block of memory to the register set. A trigger that causes the block moving controller to move the data from the block of memory to the register set may be generated in various ways such as through operation of the component having the register set or by a separate timer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2016
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2019
    Assignee: MEDTRONIC, INC.
    Inventors: Robert Hocken, Wesley A. Santa, Christopher M. Arnett, Jalpa S. Shah, Joel E. Sivula
  • Patent number: 10335599
    Abstract: An example of a neurostimulation system may include a storage device to store a stimulation waveform, a programming control circuit to generate a plurality of stimulation parameters controlling delivery of neurostimulation pulses according to the stimulation waveform, and waveform definition circuit configured to create and adjust the stimulation waveform. The waveform definition circuit includes a charge recovery module that may include a stimulation to receive the stimulation waveform including charge injection phases, a charge recovery scheme input to receive a charge recovery scheme, and a waveform adjuster configured to identify a need for recovering charges injected during the charge injection phases and adjust the received stimulation waveform by automatically inserting charge recovery phases into the received stimulation waveform based on the identified need for recovering the injected charges and the received charge recovery scheme.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2017
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2019
    Assignee: Boston Scientific Neuromodulation Corporation
    Inventor: Dennis Zottola
  • Patent number: 10307598
    Abstract: Methods and systems are described for managing synchronous conducted communication for an implantable medical device (IMD). The IMD further comprises electrodes and sensing circuitry. The sensing circuitry is configured to detect physiologic events. A receiver amplifier is coupled to the electrodes. The receiver amplifier is configured to receive conducted communications signals via the electrodes. A controller is configured to establish synchronous conducted communication with a transmit device. The controller includes a receive window timing (RWT) module configured to manage an on-off cycle of the receiver amplifier based on first and second receive window timing schemes. The RWT module switches between the first and second receive window timing schemes based on a condition of the synchronous conducted communication.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2019
    Assignee: Pacesetter, Inc.
    Inventors: Timothy Edward Ciciarelli, Benjamin T. Persson
  • Patent number: 10300282
    Abstract: Electrical stimulation therapy is provided to a patient in order to induce a patient sensation. The patient sensation may be selected from a number of patient sensations. A set of therapy parameter values are associated with each of the number of patient sensations. A user interface allows a user to adjust one or more characteristics of the patient sensation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2019
    Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.
    Inventors: Nathan A. Torgerson, Kevin L. Bright, Nicholas D. Buse
  • Patent number: 10290157
    Abstract: This disclosure describes systems, devices, and techniques for adjusting an anatomical atlas to patient anatomy. In one example, a system may include processing circuitry configured to generate, for display at a user interface, a representation of an anatomical region of a patient, generate, for display at the user interface, a representation of one or more atlas-defined anatomical structures at a first position over the representation of the anatomical region of the patient, receive a user annotation that defines an adjustment to at least one atlas-defined anatomical structure relative to the representation of the anatomical region of the patient, and adjust, based on the adjustment, the first position of the representation of the one or more atlas-defined anatomical structures to a second position of the representation of the one or more atlas-defined anatomical structures over the representation of the anatomical region of the patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2017
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2019
    Assignee: Medtronic Bakken Research Center B.V.
    Inventors: Rutger Nijlunsing, Stefan Marien
  • Patent number: 10290366
    Abstract: A sample analysis and medical data acquisition system for patient management includes a first user interface (UI) display module for displaying a medical chart page that includes selectable items associated with patient management. The first UI display module displays a set of medical delivery systems associated with a selectable medical delivery selection item, from which a medical delivery system is chosen. The system includes a second UI display module, in communication with the first UI display module, for displaying parameter fields for entry of operation data associated with the chosen medical delivery system. Medical data is captured from a patient by an analyzer configured to perform analysis of samples from the patient. The medical data is analyzed in accordance with entered operation data. The system includes an analysis display module, in communication with at least the first UI display module, for displaying sample analysis results.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2019
    Assignee: Abbott Point of Care Inc.
    Inventors: Jody Ann Tirinato, Mark Paul Maund, Paul Machiaverna, Paul Andrew Gibson, Gary John Vandersleen, Rosa Margarita Ibanez, Lyudmila Zaltsman, Michael P. Zelin
  • Patent number: 10258805
    Abstract: A method for subcutaneously treating pain in a patient includes first providing a neurostimulator with an IPG body and at least a primary, a secondary, and a tertiary integral lead with electrodes disposed thereon. A primary incision is opened to expose the subcutaneous region below the dermis in a selected portion of the body. A pocket is then opened for the IPG through the primary incision and the integral leads are inserted through the primary incision and routed subcutaneously to desired nerve regions along desired paths. The IPG is disposed in the pocket through the primary incision. The primary incision is then closed and the IPG and the electrodes activated to provide localized stimulation to the desired nerve regions and at least three of the nerves associated therewith to achieve a desired pain reduction response from the patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2019
    Assignee: SYNTILLA MEDICAL, LLC
    Inventors: Kenneth Lyle Reed, Robert Raymond Bulger, Michael Steven Colvin
  • Patent number: 10258794
    Abstract: Provided is an electrical stimulation device including a first to fourth electrodes, and an electrical stimulation generation section which supplies an electrical stimulation signal to each of the first to fourth electrodes. The electrical stimulation generation section supplies, to the first and second electrodes, an electrical stimulation signal according to a first stimulation pattern, and supplies, to the third and fourth electrodes, an electrical stimulation signal according to a second stimulation pattern. The first stimulation pattern is set so that an electrical stimulation signal for changing stimulation intensity according to a first waveform is supplied to the first electrode, and an electrical stimulation signal for changing stimulation intensity according to a second waveform is supplied to the second electrode, the second waveform being increased and decreased in conjunction with the first waveform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2019
    Assignees: SYSTEM INSTRUMENTS CO., LTD., THE UNIVERSITY OF ELECTRO-COMMUNICATIONS
    Inventors: Takeshi Akiba, Hiroshi Yokoi
  • Patent number: 10207117
    Abstract: Embodiments presented herein are generally directed to techniques for the transfer of isochronous stimulation data over a standardized isochronous audio or data link between components of an implantable medical device system. More specifically, as described further below, a first component is configured to generate dynamic stimulation data based on one or more received sound signals. The first component is configured to obtain static configuration data and to encode the dynamic stimulation data and the static configuration data into a series of isochronous wireless packets. The first component is configured to transmit the series of wireless packets over an isochronous wireless channel to a second component of the implantable medical device system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2019
    Assignee: Cochlear Limited
    Inventors: Werner Meskens, Koen Van Herck
  • Patent number: 10204706
    Abstract: In one aspect, a programmer for an implantable medical device comprises a user interface that receives user input corresponding to one or more selected stimulation therapy parameters for delivering stimulation therapy to a patient with the implantable medical device and presents an energy consumption estimate of a power source based on the selected stimulation therapy parameters; and a processor that determines one or more programming options that, if selected, would alter the selected stimulation therapy parameters and reduce the energy consumption estimate. The user interface presents at least one of the programming options to reduce the energy consumption estimate to the user with an indication that user selection of one or more of the presented programming options would alter the selected stimulation therapy parameters to reduce energy consumption of the implantable medical device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2019
    Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.
    Inventors: Jon P. Davis, Steven M. Goetz, Nathan A. Torgerson, Ashish Singal, Lynn A. Davenport, Rajeev M. Sahasrabudhe, Shyam Gokaldas, Joel A. Anderson, Leroy L. Perz, Scott E. Straka
  • Patent number: 10173008
    Abstract: A system is disclosed having a server, a dialysis machine configured to connect to the server through a network and client device configured to connect to the server through the network. In one embodiment, the server is configured to maintain an access list to determine whether the client device is authorized to connect to the dialysis machine. The server is further configured to provide a connection for transfer of data between the dialysis machine and the client device. Various methods of accessing the network using the system components are further disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2019
    Assignee: Baxter International Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas L. C. Simpson, Laura M. Letellier, James P. Martucci, Gordon J. Wilkes
  • Patent number: 10137312
    Abstract: In certain aspects, the present disclosure is directed to a method of improving a patient's recovery after a neuro-ischemic event. The method can include identifying a patient who has suffered a neuro-ischemic event, and stimulating, for a period of time, a parasympathetic structure in the patient's cranium before, during, and/or after the patient undergoes a task-oriented therapy to improve the patient's recovery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2018
    Assignee: AUTONOMIC TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
    Inventors: Anthony V. Caparso, Benjamin D. Pless
  • Patent number: 10124161
    Abstract: A lead includes a ribbon cable comprising a distal end portion and a proximal end portion. The ribbon cable has a plurality of conductors disposed within an insulating body and a plurality of electrode apertures selectively disposed along the distal end portion of the insulating body. The ribbon cable further includes a plurality of conductive electrodes, wherein each of the plurality of conductive electrodes is disposed over at least one of the plurality of electrode apertures and in electrical communication with at least one of the plurality of conductors. The lead may optionally include a flexible, flat lead body. A method of making a lead includes the steps of (1) obtaining a ribbon cable comprising a plurality of conductors; (2) selectively removing regions of the insulating body to create a plurality of apertures; and (3) placing a plurality of conductive elements over the plurality of apertures, respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2018
    Assignee: BOSTON SCIENTIFIC NEUROMODULATION CORPORATION
    Inventor: John M. Barker
  • Patent number: 10124170
    Abstract: A method of neurostimulation titration. The method includes setting titration parameters for an electrical signal delivered by an implantable medical device, initiating titration with the titration parameters and an aggressiveness profile, performing titration by increasing at least one of a current amplitude, a frequency, a pulse width or a duty cycle of the electrical signal until a threshold is reached or a side effect is detected, pausing the titration while waiting for commands from the patient or caregiver, and resuming the titration in response to receiving authorization from an external device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2018
    Assignee: Cyberonics, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott Stubbs, Imad Libbus, Scott Mazar, Bruce H. KenKnight, Badri Amurthur
  • Patent number: 10118037
    Abstract: Feedback regarding electrical stimulation is provided to a patient. Electrical stimulation is applied to the patient. The electrical stimulation is applied by varying an electrical stimulation parameter. A signal is communicated to the patient via an electronic device. The signal is correlated with the electrical stimulation parameter such that the signal varies in association with the varying of the electrical stimulation parameter. The communicating is performed while the electrical stimulation is applied. Feedback is received from the patient in response to the electrical stimulation. Based on the received feedback from the patient, the electrical stimulation is adjusted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2018
    Assignee: Nuvectra Corporation
    Inventors: Norbert Kaula, Yohannes Iyassu
  • Patent number: 10112052
    Abstract: A method and system include a processor that outputs a characterization of a correspondence between a volume of estimated tissue activation and a target and/or side effect stimulation volume, and/or that provides controls by which to modify thresholds and/or amounts according to which the volume of estimated activation is to correspond to the target volume.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2018
    Assignee: Boston Scientific Neuromodulation Corporation
    Inventors: Hemant Sharad Bokil, Mark Pierre, Keith R. Carlton, Michael A. Moffitt, Richard Mustakos, Dean Chen
  • Patent number: 10105542
    Abstract: A neurostimulation system having an external or an implantable pulse generator programmed to innervate a specific nerve or group of nerves in a patient through an electrode as a mode of treatment, having a patient remote that wirelessly communicates with the pulse generator to increase stimulation, decrease stimulation, and provide indications to a patient regarding the status of the neurostimulation system. The patient remote can allow for adjustment of stimulation power within a clinically effective range and for turning on and turning off the pulse generator. The patient remote and neurostimulation system can also store a stimulation level when the pulse generator is turned off and automatically restore the pulse generator to the stored stimulation level when the pulse generator is turned on.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2018
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2018
    Assignee: AXONICS MODULATION TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
    Inventors: Guangqiang Jiang, John Woock, Dennis Schroeder, Eric Schmid
  • Patent number: 10071251
    Abstract: Methods and devices for providing noninvasive electrotherapy and electrical stimulation are described herein. In one aspect, a device for noninvasive electrotherapy includes wireless communication circuitry configured to receive pulse generation control signals wirelessly transmitted from a computing device. The device can include pulse generation circuitry configured to deliver electrical waveforms according to instructions encoded in the pulse generation control signals. The computing device can include a cellular telephone device, a portable media player, a personal digital assistant, a tablet computer, or an internet access device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2018
    Assignee: EMPI, INC.
    Inventors: Thomas Jerome Bachinski, Michael Wayne Moore, Joseph Winn, Jay Dave, David Orr, Dain Silvola
  • Patent number: 10052475
    Abstract: A method, programmer for a neurostimulator, and neurostimulation kit are provided. The kit comprises a neurostimulator, and a plurality of elongated lead bodies configured for being coupled to the neurostimulator, each having a plurality of proximal contacts and a plurality of distal electrodes respectively electrically coupled to the proximal contacts, wherein an in-line connectivity between the electrodes and proximal contacts carried by the different lead bodies differs from each other. Electrical energy is conveyed between the electrodes of the selected lead body and the tissue, an electrical fingerprint is measured at the proximal contacts of the selected lead body in response to the conveyed electrical energy, and the selected lead body is identified based on the measured electrical fingerprint. These steps can be performed by the programmer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2018
    Assignee: Boston Scientific Neuromodulation Corporation
    Inventor: David K. L. Peterson
  • Patent number: 9999387
    Abstract: In order to assist in evaluating/monitoring pain, and in treating same, a touch-sensitive graphics tool is provided with a local application (TGapps) for displaying a graphical representation of a patient's body, on which the patient can delimit a zone. A control application cooperates with the local application in order to record each delimited zone together with the corresponding surface data. The control application has a first mode in which the local application (TGapps) can be used by the patient to delimit zones of pain and a second mode in which the local application can be used by the patient to delimit treated zones. The tool is configured to activate graphical and/or numerical comparisons between the surface areas of the pain zones and the surface areas of the treated zones. In this way, it is possible to evaluate pain and the effects of treatment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2018
    Assignee: CENTRE HOSPITAILIER UNIVERSITAIRE DE POITIERS
    Inventors: Philippe Rigoard, Farid Guetarni
  • Patent number: 9993646
    Abstract: An example of a system may include electrodes on at least one lead configured to be operationally positioned for use in modulating neural tissue. The neural tissue may include at least one of dorsal horn tissue, dorsal root tissue or dorsal column tissue. The system may include an implantable device including a neural modulation device and a controller. The neural modulation device may be configured to use at least some of the electrodes to generate a modulation field to deliver sub-perception modulation to the neural tissue. The sub-perception modulation may have an intensity below a patient-perception threshold. The patient-perception threshold may be a boundary below which a patient does not sense generation of the modulation field. The controller may be configured to control the neural modulation device to generate the modulation field, and automatically adjust the modulation field in response to a patient input.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2018
    Assignee: Boston Scientific Neuromodulation Corporation
    Inventors: Jordi Parramon, Bradley Lawrence Hershey, Michael A. Moffitt, Changfang Zhu
  • Patent number: 9993649
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a system (10) for planning and/or providing a therapy for neural applications, especially a neurostimulation and/or neurorecording applications, comprising at least one lead (300), the lead (300) having a plurality of electrodes (132) being capable to provide at least one stimulation field (F; F1; F2), further comprising at least one adjustment means (400), the adjustment means (400) being configured such that at least one characteristic parameter of the stimulation field (F; F1; F2) is directly and/or indirectly adjusted in order to establish at least one stimulation field (F; F1; F2) with at least one user defined maximal stimulation field characteristic at at least one user defined radial distance away from the lead (300).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2018
    Assignee: Medtronic Bakken Research Center B.V.
    Inventors: Mattias Bengt Johan Astrom, Johan Gerard Kleibeuker, Hubert Cecile François Martens, Gijs Antonius Franciscus Van Elswijk, Rutger Nijlunsing, Michel Marcel José Decré
  • Patent number: 9984204
    Abstract: A monitor/defibrillator (100) is described having an optical image sensor (114) such as a barcode reader or an optical character reader for accurate and timely entry of information during a medical treatment event. The barcode reader or optical character reader enables a one-step capture of patient identifying information, administered therapeutic substances, equipment and other event information. The information is decoded by the monitor/defibrillator and entered into system memory for later use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2018
    Assignee: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS N.V.
    Inventors: Patrick Guiney, William Douglas Grube
  • Patent number: 9974108
    Abstract: A method of identifying an external device that sent a message and then determining whether to process the message based in part on the identity of the external device that sent the message. The implanted device receives a message from the external device and identifies an external device ID in the received message. The external device ID identifies the external device that sent the message. The implanted device then compares the external device ID from the message to a stored list of approved external device IDs. The implanted device processes the message when the external device ID matches one or the approved external device IDs in the stored list of approved external device IDs. However, the message is disregarded when the external device ID does not match any of the approved external device IDs in the stored list of approved external device IDs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2018
    Assignee: Nuvectra Corporation
    Inventor: Richard J. Polefko
  • Patent number: 9966786
    Abstract: The disclosure generally relates to methods, system and apparatus to optimize wireless charging while allowing FM radio reception. In an exemplary embodiment, presence of an active FM radio on a wireless platform is detected and the active FM channel is identified. To reduce radio frequency interference between the wireless charging magnetic field and the FM channel, the PTU may adaptively shift the A4WP frequency. The disclosed embodiments improve user experience with FM radios in wireless charging systems.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2018
    Assignee: Intel Corporation
    Inventors: Jie Gao, Songnan Yang, Xintian E. Lin
  • Patent number: 9956413
    Abstract: Techniques are provided for use with implantable medical devices to deliver packed pacing using split or bifurcated pulses of opposing polarity in different cardiac cycles. In one example, packed single-phase pulses are delivered by the device during a first cardiac cycle that serve to stimulate heart tissue. During the next cardiac cycle, packed single-phase stimulation pulse of opposing polarity are delivered that serve to recharge the pacing capacitors and also serve to stimulate heart tissue. By separating the pulses into separate cardiac cycles, near simultaneous multisite packed stimulation can be achieved within each cardiac cycle while providing for charge balancing and without interfering with sensing. Non-packed pacing with bifurcated pulses is also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2018
    Assignee: PACESETTER, INC.
    Inventor: Gene A. Bornzin
  • Patent number: 9931512
    Abstract: An external control device for use with a neurostimulation system having a plurality of electrodes capable of conveying an electrical stimulation field into tissue in which the electrodes are implanted is provided. The external control device comprises a user interface having one or more control elements, a processor configured for generating stimulation parameters designed to modify the electrical stimulation field relative to one or more neurostimulation lead carrying the electrodes. The external control device further comprises output circuitry configured for transmitting the stimulation parameters to the neurostimulation system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2018
    Assignee: Boston Scientific Neuromodulation Corporation
    Inventors: Michael A. Moffitt, Sridhar Kothandaraman, James Carl Makous
  • Patent number: 9919159
    Abstract: A programming session for an implantable medical device that includes a posture responsive therapy mode includes at least two phases. In a first phase, a first set of therapy parameter values are modified while the posture responsive therapy mode is deactivated. In the posture responsive therapy mode, the medical device automatically selects one or more therapy parameter values that define therapy delivered to a patient based on a detected posture state. In a second phase, the posture responsive therapy mode is activated and a second set of therapy parameter values are adjusted after observing a patient response to the posture responsive therapy delivered with the first set of therapy parameter values selected during the first phase. The second set of therapy parameter values may, for example, define the patient posture states or the modification profiles with which the medical device adjusts therapy upon detecting a posture state transition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2018
    Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.
    Inventors: Dennis M. Skelton, Jon P. Davis, Rajeev M. Sahasrabudhe, Shyam Gokaldas, Joseph J. Nolan, Dennis J. Bourget, Duane L. Bourget, Keith A. Miesel, James Zimmerman
  • Patent number: 9895546
    Abstract: A neurostimulation system having an external or an implantable pulse generator programmed to innervate a specific nerve or group of nerves in a patient through an electrode as a mode of treatment, having a patient remote that wirelessly communicates with the pulse generator to increase stimulation, decrease stimulation, and provide indications to a patient regarding the status of the neurostimulation system. The patient remote can allow for adjustment of stimulation power within a clinically effective range and for turning on and turning off the pulse generator. The patient remote and neurostimulation system can also store a stimulation level when the pulse generator is turned off and automatically restore the pulse generator to the stored stimulation level when the pulse generator is turned on.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2018
    Assignee: AXONICS MODULATION TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
    Inventors: Guangqiang Jiang, John Woock, Dennis Schroeder, Eric Schmid
  • Patent number: 9884196
    Abstract: An external control device for use with a neurostimulator coupled to a plurality of electrodes capable of conveying electrical stimulation energy into tissue in which the electrodes are implanted. The external control device comprises a user interface configured for receiving direct input from a user specifying a target value for a target electrode. The user interface includes a display screen configured for displaying graphical representations of the electrodes. The user interface comprises a controller/processor configured for, in response to the direct user input, assigning a new stimulation amplitude value to the target electrode, and output circuitry configured for transmitting the new stimulation amplitude value to the neurostimulator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2018
    Assignee: Boston Scientific Neuromodulation Corporation
    Inventors: Prakash Rao, Anita Yip, Sridhar Kothandaraman
  • Patent number: 9861816
    Abstract: Some embodiments relate to a method of treating a waste evacuation dysfunction, comprising administering transcutaneous electrical stimulation to at least one lumbar or abdominal region for at least one treatment period per day over a treatment term of at least one week.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2018
    Assignee: Murdoch Childrens Research Institute
    Inventors: Bridget Rae Southwell, John Medwyn Hutson, Andre Yi Feng Tan
  • Patent number: 9855426
    Abstract: An electro-stimulation device where the supplementary motor area, premotor area and/or subthalamic nucleus is stimulated extracranially via intrinsic auricular muscles and the stimulation intensity of the supplementary motor area, premotor area and/or subthalamic nucleus is changed with the intensity of the tremors. The electro-stimulation device comprises; at least two primary electrodes which enables sending and receiving electric signals, at least one control unit which produces stimulating signals for reducing involuntary resting activities such as tremors and enables these signals to be sent to/received from primary electrodes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2018
    Assignee: KOC Universitesi
    Inventors: Yusuf Ozgur Cakmak, Hakan Urey, Selim Olcer, Kaan Aksit
  • Patent number: 9855432
    Abstract: A system for a tissue stimulator coupled to an array of electrodes. The system comprises a user-controlled input device configured for generating control signals, and at least one processor configured for generating a plurality of stimulation parameter sets in response to the control signals that, when applied to the electrodes, will shift electrical current between electrodes to modify a region of tissue activation. The processor(s) is further configured for computing an estimate of the region of tissue activation, and for generating display signals capable of prompting a monitor to display an animated graphical representation of the computed estimate of the region of tissue activation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2018
    Assignee: Boston Scientific Neuromodulation Corporation
    Inventors: Peter J. Yoo, Michael A. Moffitt, Kerry Bradley
  • Patent number: 9839780
    Abstract: A system for a neurostimulator coupled to electrodes, and a method of providing therapy to a patient using the electrodes implanted within the patient. A target multipole relative to the electrodes is defined. The target multipole is emulated by defining an initial electrical current distribution for the electrodes, such that a first set of active electrodes respectively has electrical current values of a first polarity. Each of the electrical current values of the first polarity is compared to a first threshold value, and at least one of the electrodes in the first active electrode set is zeroed-out based on the comparison. The electrical current value of each of the zeroed-out electrode(s) is redistributed to remaining ones of the electrodes to define a new electrical current distribution for the electrodes. Electrical current is conveyed to the electrodes in accordance with the new electrical current distribution, thereby providing the therapy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2015
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2017
    Assignee: Boston Scientific Neuromodulation Corporation
    Inventors: Michael A. Moffitt, Sridhar Kothandaraman, Prakash Rao
  • Patent number: 9827425
    Abstract: Methods for electrically stimulating body tissues to improve function or reduce symptoms provide an electrical stimulation system having two or more electrodes that are capable of being switched independently from a hyperpolarizing (depolarizing) state to a hypopolarizing state. Multiple combinations of hyperpolarizing electrodes and hypopolarizing electrodes are created by polarity switching to determine a polarity configuration having the best performance as determined by symptom reporting and clinical diagnostic tests. Polarity switching is triggered manually or is programmed to be switched automatically. Determining the configuration providing electrical stimulation resulting in the greatest benefit allows the system to be operated with one or more electrodes in a hypopolarizing state, thereby reducing energy requirements, tissue tolerance, and tissue fatigue.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2017
    Assignee: EndoStim, Inc.
    Inventors: Ofer Glasberg, Shai Policker, Virender K. Sharma, Paul V. Goode, Bevil Hogg
  • Patent number: 9814884
    Abstract: System and methods for detecting impedance changes and for adjusting electrical therapy based on impedance changes are disclosed herein. A method in accordance with a particular embodiment includes applying a therapeutic, paresthesia-less electrical signal to a patient via a patient modulation system that includes a signal delivery device in electrical communication with a target neural population of the patient. The method can include monitoring on a periodic basis an impedance of an electrical circuit that includes the signal delivery device. The method can further include detecting a change in the impedance that indicates a fault and providing an indication that the fault exists.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2017
    Assignee: Nevro Corp.
    Inventors: Jon Parker, Andre B. Walker, Udai Singh
  • Patent number: 9806557
    Abstract: The disclosure generally relates to a method and apparatus for wireless charging station with adaptive radio interference detection and control. During wireless charging of a smart device, the harmonics associated with the magnetic resonance coupling between the power transmission unit (PTU) and the power receiving unit (PRU) may interfere with radio communication if PRU engages in radio messaging. The disclosed embodiments provide method and system for identifying interference and adapting the wireless charging power to reduce or eliminate interference while efficiently charging the PRU.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2017
    Assignee: Intel Corporation
    Inventors: Jie Gao, Songnan Yang, Xintian Lin, Ulun Karacaoglu, Bin Xiao
  • Patent number: 9782585
    Abstract: A method for providing electrical stimulation to a user, the method comprising: providing an electrical stimulation device, in communication with a controller, at a head region of the user; with the electrical stimulation device, providing a stimulation treatment having a waveform configured for neuromodulation in the user; with the controller, performing an adjustment to the stimulation treatment, wherein performing the adjustment includes: generating a transformed waveform with application of a transfer function to the waveform, wherein the transfer function scales the waveform and selectively attenuates extreme waveform values while maintaining a frequency characteristic of the waveform in the transformed waveform; and applying the transformed waveform with the electrical stimulation device, thereby modulating the stimulation treatment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2017
    Assignee: Halo Neuro, Inc.
    Inventor: Brett Wingeier
  • Patent number: 9776003
    Abstract: A system and method may provide for conducting a stimulation of anatomic regions to treat a neuromotor, neurocognitive or neuromotor and neurocognitive disorder, according to which stimulation, motor regions are stimulated, while creep of current to non-motor regions is minimized. Stimulation parameters may be selected based on tests of motor function, tests of cognitive function, and tests of a combination of motor and cognitive functions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2017
    Assignee: The Cleveland Clinic Foundation
    Inventors: Jay L. Alberts, Cameron C. McIntyre
  • Patent number: 9757563
    Abstract: The present invention is a method of improving the persistence of electrical neural stimulation, and specifically a method of improving the persistence of an image supplied to a retina, or visual cortex, through a visual prosthesis. A continuously stimulated retina, or other neural tissue, will desensitize after a time period in the range of 20 to 150 seconds. However, an interruption of the stimulation on the order of a few milliseconds will restore the retinal sensitivity without the user perceiving the interruption, or with the user barely perceiving the interruption.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2017
    Assignee: Second Sight Medical Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Arup Roy, Robert Greenberg, Mark Humayan, Kelly McClure
  • Patent number: 9750896
    Abstract: An infusion pump system is disclosed. The infusion pump system includes an infusion pump and a controller device in wireless communication with the infusion pump, wherein the controller including instructions for controlling the infusion pump, wherein the instructions may be synchronized with a secure web portal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2017
    Assignee: DEKA Products Limited Partnership
    Inventors: Dean Kamen, John M. Kerwin, David Blumberg, Jr., Kevin A. Durand, Gregory R. Lanier, Jr., Bob D. Peret, Gerald M. Guay, Colin H. Murphy
  • Patent number: 9731141
    Abstract: An acoustic energy delivery system for delivering acoustic energy to an implantable medical device (“IMD”). The system includes an IMD having a power source and an energy delivery device. The energy delivery device includes a controller and an array of ultrasonic elements electrically coupled to the controller and configured to deliver acoustic energy to the IMD. Methods of delivering acoustic energy to an IMD are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2017
    Assignee: Cardiac Pacemakers, Inc.
    Inventors: Binh C. Tran, Bin Mi, Robert S. Harguth, Keith R. Maile
  • Patent number: 9724513
    Abstract: A method and neurostimulation system for treating a patient are provided. A plurality of pulsed electrical waveforms are respectively delivered within a plurality of timing channels of the neurostimulation system, thereby treating the patient. Sets of stimulation pulses within the pulsed electrical waveforms that will potentially overlap temporally are predicted. Stimulation pulses in the respective pulsed electrical waveforms are temporally shifted in a manner that prevents overlap of the potentially overlapping pulse sets while preventing frequency locking between the timing channels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2017
    Assignee: Boston Scientific Neuromodulation Corporation
    Inventors: Courtney Lane, Rafael Carbunaru, Kerry Bradley, David K. L. Peterson, Andrew DiGiore, Michael Moffitt
  • Patent number: 9713718
    Abstract: An implantable medical device (IMD) is disclosed having measurement circuitry for measuring one or more currents in the IMD, such as the currents drawn from various power supply voltages. Such currents are measured without disrupting normal IMD operation, and can be telemetered from the IMD for review. Switching circuitry in line with the current being measured is temporarily opened for a time period to disconnect the power supply voltage from the circuitry being powered. A voltage across a capacitance in parallel with the circuitry is measured when the switching circuitry is opened and again closed at the end of the time period, with the circuitry drawing power from the charged capacitance during this time period. The average current drawn by the power supply voltage is determined using the difference in the measured voltages, the known capacitance, and the time period between the measurements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2016
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2017
    Assignee: Boston Scientific Neuromodulation Corporation
    Inventors: Robert Graham Lamont, Damon Moazen, Robert D. Ozawa, Thomas W. Stouffer
  • Patent number: 9681836
    Abstract: Methods, systems, and apparatuses for detecting seizure events are disclosed, having at least one accelerometer to be positioned on a patient and configured to collect acceleration data and a processor in communication with the at least one accelerometer and configured to receive acceleration data from the at least one accelerometer. The processor may apply at least one non-linear operator to the acceleration data to determine whether the acceleration data indicates an event, such application including calculation of a non-linear energy of the acceleration data and performance of at least one secondary analysis to determine whether the event is a seizure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2017
    Assignee: CYBERONICS, INC.
    Inventor: Shivkumar Sabesan
  • Patent number: 9669221
    Abstract: An external control system for use with a neurostimulation device and at least one neurostimulation lead implanted within the tissue of a patient is provided. The external control system comprises a user interface configured for receiving input from a user, output circuitry configured for communicating with the neurostimulation device, and control/processing circuitry configured for receiving a medical image of the neurostimulation lead(s) relative to an anatomical structure, processing the medical image to detect the location of the neurostimulation lead(s) relative to the anatomical structure, generating a set of stimulation parameters based on the user input and the detected location of the neurostimulation lead(s) relative to the anatomical structure, and directing the output circuitry to transmit instructions to the neurostimulation device to convey electrical stimulation energy in accordance with the stimulation parameter set.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2017
    Assignee: Boston Scientific Neuromodulation Corporation
    Inventors: Yue Li, Dennis Zottola
  • Patent number: 9669227
    Abstract: Electrical stimulation therapy is provided for a patient. A user is informed that a user-supplied electrical stimulation waveform can be entered into an electronic programmer. At least in part via a user interface of the electronic programmer, it is detected that the user-supplied electrical stimulation waveform has been received by the electronic programmer. A determination is made to whether the user-supplied electrical stimulation waveform is compliant with a set of predetermined restrictions. In response to a determination that the user-supplied electrical stimulation waveform is compliant with the set of predetermined restrictions, a pulse generator is instructed to generate electrical stimulation pulses based on the user-supplied electrical stimulation waveform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2017
    Assignee: NUVECTRA CORPORATION
    Inventors: Norbert Kaula, Yohannes Iyassu
  • Patent number: 9656074
    Abstract: Devices, systems and methods for treating at least one of a condition or a symptom of a patient by positioning a stimulation device at a target site adjacent to or near a nerve within a patient. The stimulation device comprising an antenna and one or more electrodes. Transmitting electrical energy to the antenna and generating electrical impulses within the stimulation device with the electrical energy and applying the series of electrical impulses to the nerve via the electrode. The electrical impulses sufficient to modulate the nerve and treat the condition or symptom of the patient; and which have on periods where the electrical impulses are generated and applied to the nerve and off periods between the electrical impulses, where the electrical energy is transmitted to the antenna.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2017
    Assignee: Electrocore, LLC
    Inventors: Bruce J. Simon, Joseph P. Errico, Steven Mendez