Computer modeling meets Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS): Key Neurotech Patent #17

– Illustrative image from U.S. Patent No. 6,827,681 This is a very interesting 2004 patent, assigned to Brainlab AG,  outlining a way to use computer modeling to target brain stimulation. U.S. Patent No. 6,827,681: Method and device for transcranial magnetic stimulation. Assignee(s): Brainlab AG Inventor(s): Phillipp Tanner, Andreas Hartlep, Henrik Wist, Kerstin Wendicke, Thomas Weyh Technology Category: Transcranial Stimulation Issue Date: December 7, 2004 SharpBrains’ Take: The ‘681 patent claims broad coverage over the use of computer modeling in targeted brain stimulation techniques. Two broad claims directed towards stimulating specific brain areas compliment each other, with one claim reciting a limitation of generating a simulation model of the induction device and the other claim reciting a limitation of a simulation model of the head. The specification is very short (seven illustration sheets and four pages of written material), which may raise questions around adequately support claimed subject matter. However, the importance of computer-modeling technologies for improving spatial precision in medical procedures, evidenced in fields such as robotic surgery, along with the broad coverage of the ‘681 patent over such models as they apply to brain stimulation techniques are among the factors making the ‘681 patent a key non-invasive neurotechnology patent. Abstract: The invention relates to a method for stimulating specific areas of a brain using ...
Source: SharpBrains - Category: Neuroscience Authors: Tags: Cognitive Neuroscience Health & Wellness Technology brain data brain stimulation techniques Brainlab AG computer modeling neuro-technology patent TMS transcranial stimulation Transcranial-Magnetic-Stimulation Source Type: blogs