Patent ID: 6505078
Filing Date: 2003-01-07
Classification: A61N

Abstract:
An apparatus for inducing action potentials at an adjustable locus of electrically excitable tissue of an organism, comprising in combination:(A) a plurality of electrodes forming a 2-dimensional array and adapted to be implanted adjacent to the tissue; (B) at least one return electrode capable of being disposed within the organism; (C) a first set of at least one electrode within the plurality of electrodes capable of being driven with a first pulse having a first pulse parameter to generate a first subthreshold potential area in the tissue with respect to the return electrode; (D) a second set of at least one electrode within the plurality of electrodes capable of being driven with a second pulse having a second pulse parameter to generate a second subthreshold potential area in the tissue with respect to the return electrode; and E) a generator capable of providing the first pulse with the first pulse parameter being adjustable to cause a first corresponding adjustment in the first subthreshold area and providing the second pulse with the second pulse parameter being adjustable to cause a second corresponding adjustment in the second subthreshold area, wherein a superposition of the first subthreshold area and the second subthreshold area results in a suprathreshold potential area of the adjustable locus where the action potentials are induced.