Current steering neurostimulator device with unidirectional current sources

摘要

The present disclosure provides a medical device that includes a neurostimulator. The neurostimulator includes one or more channels. Each channel includes a digitally-controlled switch coupled to a voltage source. The switch is in one of an “on” state and an “off” state in response to a first control signal. Each channel also includes a digitally-controlled current sink coupled to the switch. The current sink is coupled between the switch and the voltage source. The current sink draws a variable amount of electrical current in response to a second control signal. Each channel further includes a conductor coupled to the switch and the current sink. The conductor is configured to be coupled to an electrode that is operable to deliver the electrical current drawn by the current sink to a target tissue area.

主权项

1. An electrical stimulation apparatus, comprising:
a power source; a programmable switch having a first terminal and a second terminal, wherein the first terminal is coupled to the power source; a unidirectional current source electrically coupled to the second terminal of the programmable switch, wherein the unidirectional current source is electrically uncoupled to the power source when the programmable switch is open, the unidirectional current source having a tunable current level; an electrode contact electrically coupled to the second terminal of the programmable switch and to the unidirectional current source, the electrode contact being configured for contact with a living body; and a microcontroller electrically coupled to the programmable switch and to the unidirectional current source, wherein the microcontroller is configured to:
control an opening and a closing of the programmable switch;set the current level of the unidirectional current source; andcause the electrode contact to deliver current drawn from the unidirectional current source while the programmable switch is open.