Implantable pulse generator having current steering means
First Claim
1. A programmer for an implantable control device coupled to an array of electrodes, comprising:
- a user-controlled input device configured for being physically moved in a plurality of directions to generate corresponding directional control signals;
a processor configured for shifting stimulus current values between the electrodes in response to the control signals, wherein the stimulus current values are shifted in directions within the electrode array corresponding to the directions in which the user-controlled input device is physically moved;
control circuitry configured for generating programming signals containing the stimulus current values; and
a transmitter configured for transmitting the programming signals to the implantable control device.
0 Assignments
0 Petitions
Accused Products
Abstract
An implantable pulse generator includes a current steering capability that allows a clinician or patient to quickly determine a desired electrode stimulation pattern, including which electrodes of a group of electrodes within an electrode array should receive a stimulation current, including the amplitude, width and pulse repetition rate of such current. Movement of the selected group of electrodes is facilitated through the use of remotely generated directional signals, generated by a pointing device, such as a joystick. As movement of the selected group of electrodes occurs, current redistribution amongst the various electrode contacts takes place. The redistribution of stimulus amplitudes utilizes re-normalization of amplitudes so that the perceptual level remains fairly constant. This prevents the resulting paresthesia from falling below the perceptual threshold or above the comfort threshold.
-
Citations
24 Claims
-
1. A programmer for an implantable control device coupled to an array of electrodes, comprising:
-
a user-controlled input device configured for being physically moved in a plurality of directions to generate corresponding directional control signals; a processor configured for shifting stimulus current values between the electrodes in response to the control signals, wherein the stimulus current values are shifted in directions within the electrode array corresponding to the directions in which the user-controlled input device is physically moved; control circuitry configured for generating programming signals containing the stimulus current values; and a transmitter configured for transmitting the programming signals to the implantable control device. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13)
-
-
14. A tissue stimulation system, comprising:
-
an external programmer configured for transmitting programming signals in response to a physical movement of a user-control input device in a plurality of directions; an implantable array of electrodes; an implantable control device configured for steering current-controlled stimulation energy between the electrodes in response to the programming signals, wherein the stimulation energy is shifted in directions within the electrode array corresponding to the directions in which the input device is physically moved. - View Dependent Claims (15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24)
-
Specification