การออกแบบและพัฒนาต้นแบบอุปกรณ์กระตุ้นสมองด้วยกระแสตรงผ่านกระโหลกศรีษะ สำหรับใช้งานที่บ้านในการรักษาความผิดปกติทางจิตเวช

Abstract

Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) is a non-invasive neuromodulation technique that delivers low-intensity direct current of 1–2 mA through scalp electrodes to modulate cortical excitability and promote synaptic plasticity. Accumulating scientific evidence supports its clinical efficacy across a range of conditions, including major depressive disorder, schizophrenia, chronic pain syndrome, and motor function rehabilitation, as well as its potential in enhancing cognitive performance such as attention, working memory, and learning efficiency, without inducing seizures or clinically significant adverse events. This study presents the design and development of a prototype device based on an Enhanced Howland Current Source circuit, functioning as a Voltage-Controlled Current Source (VCCS) for tDCS applications, capable of delivering a precisely regulated direct current within the range of 0.1–2.0 mA at a resolution of 0.1 mA. System validation was conducted through current measurements using a digital multimeter and voltage waveform analysis using an oscilloscope. Experimental results demonstrated that the system maintained high output accuracy across all evaluated current levels, achieving 99.94%, 99.70%, 99.96%, and 99.88% at output currents of 2.00, 1.50, 1.00, and 0.50 mA, respectively, under a reference load resistance of 5KΩ. Furthermore, the system sustained stable current delivery of 2.00 mA at a maximum load resistance of 8.25KΩ, confirming the electrical stability and precision of the proposed circuit for practical implementation