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A low-cost neurostimulator with accurate pulsed-current control.
Jader A De Lima1, Adriano S Cordeiro
1Electrical Engineering Department, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Guaratingueta-SP, Brazil. delima@feg.unesp.br
IEEE Transactions on Bio-Medical Engineering
|May 11, 2002
Summary
This study presents a low-cost constant-current stimulator for high-impedance loads. The device offers adjustable current intensity and pulsewidth, suitable for various applications.
Area of Science:
- Electrical Engineering
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- High-impedance loads require specialized current stimulators.
- Existing stimulators may be costly or complex.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop an affordable constant-current stimulator for high-impedance loads.
- To utilize standard, low-cost high-voltage components.
Main Methods:
- A voltage regulator powers an oscillator connected to a step-up transformer.
- The transformer's secondary output is rectified to drive a switched current-mirror.
- Regulated voltage adjustment controls pulsed-current intensity.
Main Results:
- A prototype achieved stimulus amplitude (0-20 mA) and pulsewidth (50 µs-1 ms).
- Pulse-repetition frequencies ranged from 1 Hz to 10 Hz.
- Worst-case ripple was 3.7% at 1 mA, with 5.6 W consumption at 20 mA.
Conclusions:
- The developed stimulator effectively drives high-impedance loads using low-cost components.
- The design offers precise control over stimulus parameters.
- This provides a cost-effective solution for current stimulation applications.