An Externally Powered, Multichannel, Implantable Stimulator for Versatile Control of Paralyzed Muscle

TLDR

The implantable stimulator is externally powered and controlled via a single encoded RF carrier, offers eight independently adjustable channels with constant‑current biphasic pulses whose amplitude is set by a resistor, and has been fabricated in thick‑film hybrid form and tested for 48 months in the laboratory. Using semi‑custom integrated circuit technology, the device was produced as a small, lightweight, low‑power implantable stimulator suitable for permanent use.

Abstract

Through the use of semicustom integrated circuit technology, an implantable muscle stimulator has been developed. The unit is small, lightweight, has low power consumption, and is intended for permanent usage. The stimulator circuitry is externally controlled and powered by a single encoded radio frequency carrier. Up to eight independently controlled stimulus output channels are provided, with output channel selection, stimulus pulse width, and stimulus pulse frequency under external control. A constant current biphasic stimulus pulse is used, in which the stimulus current amplitude can be preset by a single resistor value. The stimulator circuitry has been implemented in thick film hybrid form, and has undergone laboratory evaluation for 48 months.