Hackaday · Creativity & design

Open Source Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Device

The OpenTMS project has made transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) technology open source, allowing for DIY construction. However, the creator strongly advises against attempting this at home due to significant safety risks.

TMS is an approved medical treatment for conditions like depression, utilizing strong magnetic fields. The OpenTMS project provides extensive data and plans on GitHub for building a TMS device, including coil designs and a high-power supply.

The power supply involves microwave oven transformers and IGBTs, capable of delivering kiloamps of current. The creator, Zach McGinty, emphasizes that this is not a medical device and any attempt to build or use it is at the builder's own risk.

McGinty has implemented safety measures like fiber optic isolation for IGBT gate controls, suggesting a strong engineering background. Despite these precautions, the project is categorized as a "don't try this at home" endeavor due to the inherent dangers of high-voltage, high-current equipment near the head.

The initiative aligns with a broader trend of open-sourcing medical technologies, which can encourage innovation and competition within the healthcare industry.

AI-samenvatting op basis van de bron.