Friday, December 14, 2012

DC Stim PCB complete, thorough testing next


I am developing a commercial DC stimulator that can be used for tDCS. As soon as I began to learn about tDCS in the spring, the fascination began. I understood that I was perfectly suited to develop this project (I am a professional electrical engineer with some biomedical engineering research excited to start a business) for myself and for its business potential. Unfortunately the FDA regulatory restrictions about sales in the USA complicate matters.

I have been practicing TDCS on myself, and some friends, for the past 6 months or so on my prototype unit (see blog below on ATL treatments below). The results have varied from a little benefit to sleep, to a drastic increase in sharpness and productivity for a day to two afterwards. The most exciting, and varied, results will come when it is spread through the population when thousands (or millions) of people are giving themselves regular tDCS treatments over a long period of time. Then we will be sure of its safety and efficacy. That is still many years away.

The DC Stim has been designed keeping in mine the requirements, and safety concerns, of tDCS. Also, the aim was to make it simple, so the technicogically challenged would feel comfortable using it. Below are the main features:

  • Three levels (1.0mA, 1.5mA, 2.0mA) of regulated direct current.
  • Designed to meet IEC60601
  • Quality sponge electrodes for Anion and Cathode electrode.
  • Low profile housing, and controls so it is easy to carry if doing an activity that requires some simple movement
This blog, Insight, a growth project driven by tDCS, highlights some of the points of the development and features of the product, the DCStim. I now have a populated PCB that I am testing functionality. Current results are promising.

I hope to have a small manufacturing run complete by February. I am legally looking into the option of selling the device as a kit (after fully tested of course). Otherwise it may mean testing and certification to sell abroad.

The website: www.dcstimulator.com

My youtube video talking about the DC Stim:
 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_cCuiwAKpao