Importance

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Abstract

An input command controller provides logic function selection signals and proportional signals. The signals are generated by movement of a ball member and socket member relative to two orthogonal axes. When the joystick is implanted a transmitter transmits the signals to a patient carried unit. The patient carried unit includes an amplitude modulation algorithm such as a look-up table, a pulse width modulation algorithm, and an interpulse interval modulation algorithm. The algorithms derive corresponding stimulus pulse train parameters from the proportional signal which parameters are transmitted to an implanted unit. The implanted unit has a power supply that is powered by the carrier frequency of the transmitted signal and stimulation pulse train parameter decoders. An output unit assembles pulse trains with the decoded parameters for application to implanted electrodes. A laboratory system is periodically connected with the patient carried unit to measure for changes in patient performance and response and reprogram the algorithm accordingly. The laboratory system also performs initial examination, set up, and other functions. A percutaneous interface structure is provided which facilitates cleansing the area of the limb around the electrode leads, which protects the lead wires from damage and catching and which protects the patient against catching the lead wires and pulling or ripping the electrodes form the implantation site.

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First Claim