Mother card connector and related devices and methods

Abstract

According to one exemplary aspect of the present application, a female snap connector (120) is provided having a base (124) and a cap (121) opposite the base (124) and forming a depth of the female snap connector (120). The female snap connector (120) further includes a receptacle (122) formed in the cap (121) for receiving a post of a male snap connector with which the female snap connector (120) is to cooperate. The base of the female snap connector (120) is of or includes an electrically conductive polymer. The receptacle (122) is configured to be elastically deformable so as to conform to the passage of the complementary shape of the post within the receptacle (122) during insertion and removal of the post in the depth dimension of the female snap connector (120).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention generally relates to electromechanical components. More specifically, embodiments of the electrode unit of this invention are particularly suitable for receiving and holding the male terminal of a telemetry device and for achieving an electrical connection to that male terminal. Examples of the electrode assembly of this invention are integrated into a heart rate monitoring belt or garment. Background Technology

[0002] Heart rate monitoring straps are currently available that people can wear under their clothing to monitor their heart rate. These straps are typically designed to detachably connect a telemetry transmitter to a strap with two electrodes that contact the user's skin in the chest region of the torso. The electrodes detect electrocardiogram (ECG) pulses generated by the heart, and the detachable telemetry transmitter then transmits the data representing the user's heartbeat to a remote receiver equipped with a display using wireless magnetic near-field communication or radio signals. In many cases, the remote receiver is provided in the form of a watch, wrist computer, or other similar display worn by the user, usually located on the user's wrist.

[0003] Because various acceleration and magnetic sensors can be integrated into small and lightweight devices, the telemetry data to be transmitted, as an alternative to or supplement to heart rate, also includes data on a variety of measured variables, such as operating frequency, cycling speed and cadence, and riding speed. The data to be transmitted may also include data required to identify the user and / or the transmitter device.

[0004] For several reasons, a telemetry transmitter that can be detached from the heart rate monitoring band is preferred. From a consumer perspective, users typically sweat when using the heart rate monitoring band, so it is advantageous to be able to remove the electronic telemetry transmitter from the band so that the band can be washed. From a manufacturing perspective, the process of manufacturing the band is quite different from the process of manufacturing the transceiver, so it is advantageous to be able to manufacture the components separately. Furthermore, it is also advantageous for one telemetry transmitter to be interchangeable with multiple bands.

[0005] Conversely, some standard medical electrodes are known, which consist of an electrode substrate that is attached to the user's skin via conductive gel or adhesive, and a male snap-fit ​​connector extending from the substrate. This electrode connects to various devices containing a corresponding female snap-fit ​​connector. Commercially available examples of such standard medical electrodes include products from 3M Red Dot and Ambu.

[0006] In this field, there are many challenges in developing means for detachably connecting electrodes and related devices via snap-fit ​​interfaces. A major issue is the integrity of the connection between the male protrusion and the snap-fit. Any excessive movement of the male protrusion within the snap-fit ​​generates electrical noise, making it difficult, or even impossible, to accurately measure parameters such as a user's heart rate. Furthermore, since users typically engage in strenuous activity while using the product, the connection needs to withstand and support the telemetry transmitter during such activities. As the snap-fit ​​depth decreases, the force required to ensure a reliable and stable connection increases significantly.

[0007] Furthermore, it is evident that the contact between the snap-fit ​​and the electrode deteriorates over time due to wear, corrosion, contamination, and other factors. Therefore, there is a need to find an improved electromechanical component for this type of snap-fit ​​connector. Summary of the Invention

[0008] The present invention is defined by the following technical solutions. Specific embodiments are also defined below.

[0009] According to a first aspect, a female snap-fit ​​connector is provided, having a base and a cap opposite the base and forming a depth for the snap-fit ​​connector. The female snap-fit ​​connector also includes a socket formed in the cap for receiving a protrusion of a mating male snap-fit ​​connector. The socket is configured to be resiliently deformable to conform to the passage of a complementary shape of the protrusion within the socket during insertion and removal of the protrusion into the depth dimension of the female snap-fit ​​connector.

[0010] According to a second aspect, an electrode unit having a body is provided that mechanically connects electrodes to a female snap-fit ​​connector. Conductive pathways are formed in the body for electrically connecting the electrodes to the female snap-fit ​​connector.

[0011] According to a third aspect, a telemetry device is provided having a housing and a circuit board contained within the housing. The telemetry device also includes a female snap-fit ​​connector that is mechanically and electrically connected to the circuit board and extends through the housing.

[0012] According to a fourth aspect, a wearable device is provided having a host garment that can be worn by a user, and two electrode units that are incorporated into the host garment and positioned such that female snap connectors are arranged adjacent to each other to receive male snap connectors for cooperative operation of associated telemetry devices.

[0013] According to the fifth aspect, a method is provided for manufacturing such a female snap-fit ​​connector by using an additive manufacturing method to form the base and the cover into an integral part.

[0014] According to a sixth aspect, a method for manufacturing such an electrode unit is provided, wherein an electrode and a body are provided, a female snap-fit ​​connector is manufactured using the method according to a fifth aspect, and a conductive path between the female snap-fit ​​connector and the electrode is provided by combining the body, the female snap-fit ​​connector, and the electrode into an integral component, wherein the conductive path is formed at least partially by a body having a conductive substrate for connecting the snap-fit ​​connector to the electrode, or by a body having a conductive layer for connecting the snap-fit ​​connector to the electrode.

[0015] Various embodiments of the present invention may include one or more features from the following list:

[0016] -The base and cap are a single, integrated component;

[0017] - The conductive polymer is a conductive elastomer;

[0018] -The matrix of the conductive elastomer is selected from the following:

[0019] natural rubber,

[0020] Thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU),

[0021] Thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs),

[0022] Organosilicones, especially polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS),

[0023] ο EPDM rubber, and

[0024] Styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR);

[0025] -The materials for the conductive particles are selected from the following:

[0026] Carbon;

[0027] ο Poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene)polystyrene sulfonate (PEDOT:PSS);

[0028] οSilver;

[0029] ο metal;

[0030] Carbon black;

[0031] ο graphite;

[0032] ο Graphene;

[0033] Carbon nanoparticles;

[0034] ο Polyacetylene (PA);

[0035] ο Polyaniline (PANI);

[0036] ο Polypyrrole (PPY);

[0037] ο Poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene): Poly(styrene sulfonic acid) (PEDOT: PSS),

[0038] Nanoparticles of silver, gold, copper, and nickel, and

[0039] any of the above alloys;

[0040] - The cap is divided into several parts, with one or more gaps between the parts to increase the elasticity of the cap;

[0041] - The female snap connector includes an outer side for interacting with the male snap connector, and an inner side opposite to the outer side;

[0042] - The socket includes a trimmed (e.g., beveled) entry surface set on the outside of the cap;

[0043] - The socket includes a necked portion that connects to the access surface;

[0044] - The socket includes an opening;

[0045] -The narrowest part of the socket opening is defined by the necked section;

[0046] - The socket includes an edge surrounding the opening located on the inside or outside, or both;

[0047] - The female snap-fit ​​connector includes a peripheral groove between the edge and the surrounding base to increase the flexibility of the socket;

[0048] - The housing comprises two mating housing parts;

[0049] - The telemetry device includes an electromechanical interface, which includes one or more of the female snap-fit ​​connectors and a seal containing one or more of the female snap-fit ​​connectors;

[0050] - Seals seal the housing components together;

[0051] - The seal is constructed to create a watertight seal between the housing portions of the housing;

[0052] - The joining of the body, female connector, and electrodes includes casting, ultrasonic welding, hot forging, high-frequency welding, conductive adhesive bonding, or thermal bonding, and

[0053] - The base and cap are made of conductive polymer material.

[0054] The present invention offers considerable advantages. Because the female snap-fit ​​connector is made of a conductive polymer or a substrate comprising a conductive polymer, there are fewer discontinuities in the conductive path between the snap-fit ​​connectors, resulting in a very strong electrical connection. Furthermore, the elasticity of the conductive polymer also provides a reliable mechanical connection.

[0055] Further benefits associated with certain embodiments will be set forth below. Attached Figure Description

[0056] In the following description, some exemplary embodiments will be illustrated in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0057] Figure 1 A top perspective view of an electrode unit according to at least some embodiments of the present invention is shown;

[0058] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 Top view of the electrode unit shown.

[0059] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 The bottom view of the electrode unit shown.

[0060] Figure 4 It shows along Figure 3 Cross-sectional view of the electrode unit along the centerline AA;

[0061] Figure 5 It shows Figure 4 A detailed view of area B, in which the mating male snap-fit ​​connector is in a close proximity state;

[0062] Figure 6 The male and female snap-fit ​​connectors are shown in an interconnected state;

[0063] Figure 7 A perspective view of a telemetry device according to at least some embodiments of the present invention is shown;

[0064] Figure 8 It shows Figure 7 Exploded perspective view of the telemetry device shown;

[0065] Figure 9 It shows the assembly structure. Figure 7 A cross-sectional view of the telemetry device shown. Detailed Implementation

[0066] Figures 1 to 3A general overview of an electrode unit 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. The electrode unit 100 has three main parts: a female snap-fit ​​connector 120, an electrode 130, and a body 110 connecting the female snap-fit ​​connector 120 and the electrode 130 to form the electrode unit 100. The electrode unit 100 is an elongated member having a snap-fit ​​end 111 for receiving the female snap-fit ​​connector 120 and an opposing electrode end 112 for receiving the electrode 130. Alternatively, the body 110 may extend beyond the female snap-fit ​​connector 120 and the electrode 130, thereby eliminating the need for the body 110 to terminate at the ends 111 and 112.

[0067] Electrode unit 100 is positioned to contact the user's skin. Specifically, electrode unit 100 can be integrated into a wearable device, such as a heart rate monitoring band or a sports garment, worn around the user's torso to position electrode 130 in a suitable location to detect heart rate signals from the user's anatomy. For this purpose, electrode unit 100 has an inner side 114 facing the user and an outer side 113 facing away from the user. Therefore, electrode 130 is disposed on the inner side 114 of the body 110.

[0068] The female snap-fit ​​connector 120 is positioned to interface with a telemetry device that will be attached to the outer side 113 of the main body 110. In a typical application, the electrodes of the heart rate monitoring band identify electrocardiogram pulses caused by the heart, and the detachable telemetry device then uses wireless magnetic near-field communication or radio signals to transmit data representing the user's heartbeat to a remote receiver with a display. In many cases, the remote receiver is provided in the form of a watch, wrist computer, or other similar display worn by the user, typically on the user's wrist.

[0069] First, let's look at electrode 130. Electrode 130 is designed to detect biosignals generated by the user, such as electrocardiogram, electromyography, electroencephalography, electrooculography, bioimpedance-z (BIO-Z), or electrical skin activity (EDA) signals, and convert these signals for output to a telemetry device connected to electrode 130 via female connector 120. Several suitable structures are available for establishing such biosignals.

[0070] According to one embodiment, electrode 130 is provided with a conductive elastomer. Examples of such elastomers include thermoplastic polyurethanes and thermoplastic elastomers composited with conductive materials such as carbon. Such conductive elastomer composites are known and available, and typically comprise a polymer matrix, particularly thermoplastic elastomers, mixed with carbon aggregates prior to extrusion or other additive manufacturing stages. Alternative dopant materials include poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene)polystyrene sulfonate (PEDOT:PSS), silver, metals, carbon black, graphite, graphene, carbon nanoparticles, polyacetylene (PA), polyaniline (PANI), polypyrrole (PPY), poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrene sulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS), metals (e.g., silver, gold, copper, nickel) and their nanoparticles, and metal alloys. Alternative matrix materials include conductive polymer nanocomposites (CPN), natural rubber, thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), silicones (particularly polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS)), EPDM rubber, and styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR). Because the electrode is made of a single material or composite material with conductive properties, the electrode 130 can be constructed as a very durable and reliable component of the electrode unit 100, with few or no discontinuities between the electrode 130 and the telemetry device.

[0071] According to another embodiment, electrode 130 is assembled from a non-conductive substrate and a conductive layer supported by the substrate. The substrate is preferably flexible to conform to the shape of the user's anatomy. Suitable substrate materials include conventional thermoplastic polyurethane films, silicone resins, EPDM, knitted, woven, or nonwoven fabrics, or any combination thereof. The conductive layer can be provided by printing, lamination, or other deposition methods. For example, the conductive layer can be printed using commercially available conductive inks.

[0072] The body 110 is attached to the electrode 130, or preferably formed as an integral part of the electrode 130. According to one embodiment, the body 110 is injection molded into a base frame including openings for receiving the female snap connector 120 and the electrode 130. According to another embodiment, the body 110 and the electrode 130 are produced simultaneously in an additive manufacturing stage. This additive manufacturing stage may use one material for the electrode 130 and another material for the body 110, or they may be made of the same material. According to yet another embodiment, the body 110 is formed, for example, by die-cutting from a film or sheet of fabric. The material of the body 110 is preferably selected from soft and flexible materials to ensure a comfortable user experience. Suitable materials include conventional thermoplastic polyurethane films, silicone resins, EPDM, knitted, woven, or nonwoven fabrics, or any combination of the above. The body 110 may be incorporated into an electrically insulating receiving structure, such as fabric or any foreseeable material used in the production of clothing, wearable items, etc. One practical application is to weave, bond, or otherwise attach the body 110 to a sports bra, wherein the fabric of the sports bra covers the body 110 of the electrode unit 100.

[0073] Let's look at the female snap-fit ​​connector 120, its general layout is shown below. Figures 1 to 4 In, and displayed in detail Figure 5 and Figure 6 In the enlarged cross-sectional view, the snap-fit ​​connector 120 protrudes outward 113 from the body 110. Alternatively, this orientation can be reversed, in which the female snap-fit ​​connector protrudes inward from the body (not shown). The female snap-fit ​​connector 120 forms a generally cylindrical receiving groove in the electrode unit 100 for a corresponding protrusion of the male snap-fit ​​connector of the mating telemetry device. The generally cylindrical shape is shown for illustrative purposes only, and it should be understood that this general appearance can vary. For example, the female snap-fit ​​connector can be generally prismatic, truncated conical, elliptical, or any foreseeable shape.

[0074] like Figures 1 to 3 As shown, the female snap-fit ​​connector 120 has a cap 121 protruding from the body 110 and including a socket 122 for a protrusion. The female snap-fit ​​connector 120 is constructed as a flexible member so that it can elastically deform during the passage of the complementary-shaped protrusion within the socket 122 when the protrusion is inserted into or removed from the female snap-fit ​​connector 120. On one hand, elasticity is achieved by constructing the female snap-fit ​​connector 120 as an elastomer. On the other hand, elasticity is increased by forming trimmings in the shape of the female snap-fit ​​connector 120. For example, as Figure 2As shown, the cap 121 can be divided into several parts, such as fan-shaped portions, with gaps 123 formed between these parts to increase the elasticity of the cap 121. The illustrated embodiment includes four radial gaps 123 dividing the cap 121 into four sections. The number, location, size, and / or shape of the gaps 123 can vary. For example, variations with one, two, three, or more than four gaps are foreseeable. Thus, caps with two, three, or more than four sections (such as fan-shaped portions) are foreseeable. The purpose of the gaps 123 is to facilitate the elastic opening of the socket 122 during the insertion and removal of the corresponding male snap connector. This, in turn, will protect the female snap connector 120 from ongoing damage. On the other hand, this mechanical adjustment, as an addition or alternative to optimizing materials, will allow for adjustment of the force required to operate the connector. It should also be understood that the cap 121 can have a shape different from the generally cylindrical shape shown in the figure. In practice, shapes such as generally prismatic or truncated cones are foreseeable.

[0075] The female snap-fit ​​connector 120 has a base 124 having a generally circular or otherwise closed peripheral shape, through which the female snap-fit ​​connector 120 is connected to or integrated into the body 110 of the periphery of the electrode unit 100. The female snap-fit ​​connector 120 can be integrated into the body 110 by producing the female snap-fit ​​connector 120 and the body 110 in a single-stage additive manufacturing process (e.g., injection molding). Injection molding can be performed on a single raw material or as a two-component injection molding. Alternatively, the female snap-fit ​​connector 120 can be prefabricated and placed in a mold for molding the body 110 of the electrode unit 100. The female snap-fit ​​connector 120 itself is preferably injection molded.

[0076] Figure 5 Other shapes are shown for increasing the conformity of the socket 122 with respect to the shape of the associated male snap-fit ​​connector 150. Figure 5 The receptacle 122 is shown as being separated from the female snap-fit ​​connector 120. The receptacle 122 is designed to form a shape complementary to the protrusion shape of the male snap-fit ​​connector 150 of the telemetry device, and retains this shape during connection and disconnection of the telemetry device. During connection and disconnection of the telemetry device, the receptacle 122 is configured to undergo elastic deformation to conform to the passage of the complementary protrusion within the receptacle 122 during insertion and removal of the protrusion into and from the depth dimension of the female snap-fit ​​connector 120.

[0077] The cap 121 is connected to the base 123 via a connecting portion that defines the depth of the female snap-fit ​​connector 120. The cap 121 forms a socket 122 having an opening 126 extending therethrough. The cap 121 transitions from an outer side 113 to an inner side 114 by a trimmed shape surrounding the socket 122. Viewed from the outside, the first feature is a trimmed entry surface 129a. As shown, the entry surface 129a is beveled, rounded, or otherwise trimmed relative to the surrounding cap 121 to guide the protrusion into the socket 122. The entry surface 129a terminates in a necked portion 128 that defines the narrowest portion of the socket 122 and thus the diameter of the opening 126. The necked portion 128 is used to engage with the side of the protrusion. The signal detected by the electrode 130 is transmitted to the telemetry device through the interface between the necked portion 128 and the protrusion. To facilitate smooth movement of the protrusion, the necked portion 128 is preferably circular. The opening 126 is surrounded by an edge 127 on the inner side 114. The necking portion 128 is connected to the edge 127 by another transition surface, namely the rear surface 129b. The rear surface 129b also preferably has a trimmed shape relative to the edge 127, for example, it is beveled.

[0078] A peripheral groove 125 is provided in the female snap-fit ​​connector 120. The groove 125 may be provided, for example, between the edge 127 and the base 124 to further increase the elasticity of the female snap-fit ​​connector 120. The peripheral groove 125 may be provided on either side of the female snap-fit ​​connector 120, or on both sides. Alternatively or additionally, the groove may be provided in the cap 121. The size and / or shape of the peripheral groove 125 can vary. For example, variations with more than one groove on each side are foreseeable. The purpose of the peripheral groove 125 is to facilitate the elastic opening of the socket 122 during the insertion and removal of the corresponding male snap-fit ​​connector. This, in turn, protects the female snap-fit ​​connector from ongoing damage. On the other hand, as an addition or alternative to optimizing materials, this mechanical adjustment will allow for adjustment of the force required to operate the connector. Particularly advantageously, one or more peripheral grooves 125 are incorporated into one or more radial gaps 123 to optimize the elasticity of the female snap-fit ​​connector 120.

[0079] Figure 6An exemplary male snap-fit ​​connector 150 is shown, which is inserted into a receiving socket 122 of a female snap-fit ​​connector 120. The male snap-fit ​​connector 150 is shown approaching the female snap-fit ​​connector 120 from the outside 113. However, the male snap-fit ​​connector 150 may alternatively be inserted from the opposite side, i.e., from the inside 114. In other words, the snap-fit ​​connectors 120, 150 have a double-sided function. The male snap-fit ​​connector 150 is made of a conductive material, such as steel or other metal. For example, the protrusion can be constructed by forming a sheet of metal into the desired shape or by machining from a single piece of raw material. Thus, the male snap-fit ​​connector 150 preferably retains its shape during use. The male snap-fit ​​connector 150 has a generally flat annular flange 151 and a protrusion extending from the flange 151. The protrusion is formed by a generally cylindrical side portion 152 terminating at a bottom 153. To facilitate smooth insertion and removal from the female snap-fit ​​connector 120, the flange 151, side 152, and bottom 153 are connected to each other via circular transitions 154 and 155, giving the protrusions 153-155 an overall circular appearance. More specifically, the transition 155 between the side 152 and the flange 151 reduces the diameter of the protrusion's profile compared to the maximum diameter of the side 152, thereby creating a counter-current shape. This counter-current shape partially prevents the protrusion from sliding out of the socket 122 of the female snap-fit ​​connector 120.

[0080] When the female snap-fit ​​connector 120 and the male snap-fit ​​connector 150 are connected to each other, the necked portion 128 of the female snap-fit ​​connector 120 presses against the side portion 153 of the male snap-fit ​​connector 150. The elasticity of the substrate of the female snap-fit ​​connector 120 and the size of the socket 122 (which is smaller than the size of the protrusion in its resting state) ensure that the protrusion is held in place. The socket 122 may be covered by a protective material, particularly an electrically insulating material, such as fabric. In practice, one or both sides of the electrode body may be covered. When the socket 122 or the opening 126 is covered, depending on the insertion direction, it is preferable to provide free space for the bottom 153 of the protrusion to prevent the cover from exerting force on the bottom 153 and causing the protrusion to pop out. For example, in Figure 6 In this case, the bottom 153 will be covered, i.e., invisible. The protective material will prevent the protrusion from contacting the user's skin to maintain the integrity of the electrode signal. It can also cover the space between the flange 151 and the female snap connector 120.

[0081] The female snap-fit ​​connector 120 has a conductive path 140 between the electrode 130 and the female snap-fit ​​connector 120 for transmitting the biosignal detected by the electrode to the telemetry device through the interface between the necked portion 128 and the protrusions 153-155. The conductive path 140 in... Figure 4The following are illustrated and can be provided by several different methods. According to one embodiment, the body 110 is made of a conductive elastomer and is attached to the conductive female snap-fit ​​connector 120 and electrode 130 during a single-stage manufacturing process by producing the three main components 110, 120, 130 in a single mold or by inserting one or more of the three main components 110, 120, 130 into the mold during the molding of the body 110. According to another embodiment, the body 110 has a non-conductive substrate on which a conductive layer (e.g., a layer of conductive ink printed on either or both sides of the body 110) is laminated. The conductive layer of the body 110 or the conductive body 110 itself can be bonded to the conductive female snap-fit ​​connector 120 and electrode 130, for example, by ultrasonic welding, hot forging, high-frequency welding, bonding with a conductive adhesive, or thermal bonding. Regardless of the method used to provide conductive properties to the body 110, preferably, the body 110 is non-removably coupled to the female snap connector 120 and the electrode 130, so that it cannot be separated from the female snap connector 120 or the electrode 130 without damaging the structure. Therefore, a conductive path 140 is permanently formed between the female snap connector 120 and the electrode 130 without affecting the discontinuity.

[0082] The use of electrode unit 100 is straightforward. A heart rate monitoring band is used as an example application. An exemplary heart rate monitoring band has two such electrode assemblies 100, which are integrated, for example, by stitching or gluing, onto a flexible substrate such as an elastic fabric. The electrode assemblies 100 are positioned adjacent to each other to properly position the electrodes for detecting relevant biosignals from the user's anatomy, and the female snap connectors 120 are positioned at the correct distance from each other, corresponding to the distance between corresponding protrusions on the male snap connector of the telemetry device. The telemetry device is connected to the host wearable device or garment before or after wearing the heart rate monitoring band or other host wearable device or garment. A physical and electrical connection is simultaneously formed by inserting the male snap connector into the slot 122 of the receiving female snap connector 120. Insertion is facilitated by the elasticity of the elastomer in the slot 122 and optionally by the elastically induced trimming structure on the female snap connector 120. By connecting the male snap connector to the female snap connector 120, a conductive path 140 is formed between the telemetry device and the electrode 130. The tight fit and forced engagement between the complementary shapes of the male and female snap-fit ​​connectors 120 ensure a reliable mechanical connection between the telemetry device and the host wearable device or garment.

[0083] Detachment of the telemetry device from the host wearable device or clothing is equally simple. Electrical and mechanical connections are disconnected by simply pulling the telemetry device out of the host wearable device or clothing, whereby the elasticity of the female snap connector 120 facilitates the yielding of the socket 122 to release the male snap connector from the corresponding female snap connector 120. Once the male snap connector separates from the neck 128, the electrical connection between the telemetry device and the electrode 130 is broken.

[0084] Figures 7 to 9 The aforementioned female snap-fit ​​connector 120 is shown incorporated into a telemetry device 1000, which may be, for example, a telemetry transmitter, receiver, or transceiver. One practical application of such a telemetry device 1000 is an electronic module connected to a standard electrode equipped with a male snap-fit ​​connector (not shown). The electronic module may include circuitry for transmitting or receiving, or simultaneously transmitting and receiving, signals associated with the measured biosignal. Alternatively or additionally, the telemetry device 1000 may include a processing core for processing the biosignals received from the electrode via the electromechanical interface provided by the female snap-fit ​​connector 120. Hereinafter, the features of the aforementioned female snap-fit ​​connector apply to the female snap-fit ​​connector mentioned below, but are preceded by "1" in the corresponding reference numerals.

[0085] Figure 7 An exemplary telemetry device 1000 in an assembled form is shown. The telemetry device 1000 can be divided into four main components: an electromechanical interface 1100, a housing 1200, a circuit board 1300, and a fixture 1400. The housing 1200 may include an outer cover, but for clarity... Figures 7 to 9 The Chinese text has been omitted.

[0086] Figure 8The telemetry device 1000 is shown in an exploded view. The housing 1200 includes a cover 1201 designed to present a flat, generally quadrilateral shape with rounded corners. Naturally, other shapes such as circles, ovals, hexagons, and others are also foreseeable. The cover 1201 is surrounded by a raised edge 1202 projecting from the cover 1201. The surface of the edge 1202 is provided with grooves 1203 for receiving a seal 1160. As will be described later, the seal 1160 is integrated into the electromechanical interface 1100. The cover 1201 and the raised edge 1202 define an internal space for receiving internal components of the telemetry device 1000. The housing also includes two lugs 1205 projecting from the edge 1202 into the internal space. The lugs 1205 are intended to provide mounting points for a retainer 1400. According to the illustrated embodiment, the retainer 1400 is a screw having a head 1402 and a threaded shaft 1401. Therefore, lug 1205 includes a hole 1206, preferably a threaded hole, for receiving the threaded shaft 1401 of retainer 1400 therein. The cover, omitted from the figure, could be a similar housing component as shown, but equipped with a through-hole for receiving retainer 1400. The cover could include a similar grooved edge to seal electromechanical interface 1100. Housing 1200 also includes an opening 1204 formed in edge 1202 for allowing female snap-fit ​​connector 1120 to extend from housing 1200.

[0087] Figure 8 and Figure 9 The construction of an exemplary electromechanical interface 1100 is illustrated in detail. Generally, the electromechanical interface 1110 includes two main components: a female snap-fit ​​connector 1120 for connecting an external device (e.g., electrodes having a male snap-fit ​​connector not shown), and an associated seal 1160 for connecting to the housing 1200. However, the electromechanical interface may include more than one female snap-fit ​​connector 1120. Figures 7 to 9 As shown, two female snap-fit ​​connectors 1120 can share the seal 1160. More than two female snap-fit ​​connectors 1120 are also foreseeable.

[0088] Let's first examine the female snap-fit ​​connector 1120. Regarding the socket 1122, the peripheral base 1124, and the conductive path 1140, the female snap-fit ​​connector 1120 and... Figures 1 to 6Similar to the disclosed embodiment. Compared to the female snap connector 1120 with electrodes, the female snap connector 1120 has no electrodes and has an improved body extending from the socket 1122 and terminating at the lug 1170. Similar to that in the housing 1200, the lug 1170 of the female snap connector 1120 includes a hole 1171 that aligns with a hole 1206 on the lug 1205 of the housing 1200 when the telemetry device 1000 is assembled. The seal 1160 is designed to correspond to the shape and size of the groove 1203 on the housing 1200 to protect the internal space of the telemetry device 1000 from environmental influences. The seal 1160 is preferably made of a compliant material for sealing electrical devices. Suitable materials include natural rubber, thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), silicone resin (especially polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS)), EPDM rubber, and styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR). Seal 1160 provides a watertight seal for the housing, that is, a watertight seal between the components of the housing (bottom and outer cover). Watertightness is particularly useful for the intended purpose of the telemetry device 1000, namely, consumer use that may occur outdoors or even underwater, such as during diving.

[0089] The electromechanical interface 1100 can be manufactured by overmolding, i.e., by using separate injection molding in the mold used to produce the electromechanical interface 1100 or by other means to produce the female snap-fit ​​connector 1120. During injection molding, the compliant material of the seal 1160 encapsulates the female snap-fit ​​connector 1120. Alternative manufacturing methods include gluing, lamination, ultrasonic welding, hot forging, high-frequency welding, and thermal bonding. Advantageously, the seal 1160 surrounds the body 1110 of the female snap-fit ​​connector 1120 from both sides to ensure proper sealing of the housing components. When the electromechanical interface 1100 is mounted in the housing 1200, the female snap-fit ​​connector 1120 extends from the seal 1160 and the housing 1200 through an opening 1204 formed in the edge 1202. Thus, the electromechanical interface 1100 connects the circuit board 1300 inside the housing 1200 to an external device outside the housing 1200.

[0090] Figure 8The circuit board 1300 shown is located on the side of the electromechanical interface 1100 opposite to the housing 1200. In other words, the circuit board 1300 faces the outer cover. Naturally, the assembly order can be reversed by placing the circuit board 1300 between the electromechanical interface 1100 and the housing 1200. As can be seen, the circuit board 1300 has a conventional substrate 1301 with surface mount elements 1303. A hole 1302 is provided on the substrate 1301, aligned with a hole 1206 on the lug 1205 of the housing 1200, for receiving the retainer 1400. The circuit board 1300 also has conductive members disposed on one or both sides of the circuit board and surrounding the hole 1206 for establishing an electrical connection with the female snap-fit ​​connector 1120.

[0091] Figure 9 The advantages of the construction of the telemetry device 1000 are illustrated. The conductivity and elasticity of the female snap-fit ​​connector 1120 mean that the male snap-fit ​​connector can be physically and electrically connected to the circuit board 1301, forming two connection methods with a single component. The physical connection between the circuit board 1301 and the male snap-fit ​​connector is established through the socket 1122, the body 1110, and the fastener 1400. The electrical connection between the circuit board 1301 and the male snap-fit ​​connector is established through the necking portion 1128, the conductive path 1140 provided by the conductive body 1110, and the conductive components on the circuit board 1300, and is optionally assisted by the conductive fastener 1400 (i.e., its head 1402).

[0092] pass Figures 7 to 9 The telemetry device 1000 shown can also be varied. For example, the housing 1200 can be sealed by ultrasonic welding of housing components to each other. Alternatively, the housing components can be glued together. The outer cover can be omitted from the structure, exposing the circuit board 1300 or located between the electromechanical interface 1100 and the housing 1200. Alternatively, at least one female snap-fit ​​connector 1120 can be incorporated into the outer cover or housing. For example, this incorporation can be constructed by overmolding. The female snap-fit ​​connector can protrude from the housing or be disposed on one side of the housing. The cap of the female snap-fit ​​connector can protrude from the female snap-fit ​​connector or be embedded in the host structure, such as the housing or cap. The telemetry device 1000 may include additional structures, such as films, fabrics, etc., to make the telemetry device 1000 more concealed or integrated into a host device (e.g., wearable items or clothing).

[0093] Finally, some additional explicit disclosure features of the embodiments are listed below.

[0094] Item 1: A female snap-fit ​​connector comprising a base, a cap opposite the base for forming a depth of the female snap-fit ​​connector, and a socket formed in the cap for receiving a protrusion of a mating male snap-fit ​​connector, the socket being configured to undergo elastic deformation to conform to the passage of a complementary shape of the protrusion within the socket during insertion and removal of the protrusion into the depth dimension of the female snap-fit ​​connector, wherein the substrate of the female snap-fit ​​connector is a conductive polymer or comprises a conductive polymer.

[0095] Item 2: The female snap-fit ​​connector according to Item 1, wherein the base and the cap are formed as a single integral part.

[0096] Item 3: The female snap-fit ​​connector according to Item 1 or Item 2, wherein the conductive polymer is a conductive elastomer.

[0097] Item 4: The female snap-fit ​​connector according to any one of the above, wherein the matrix of the conductive elastomer is selected from the group consisting of:

[0098] Natural rubber,

[0099] Thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU),

[0100] Thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs)

[0101] Organosilicon, especially polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS),

[0102] EPDM rubber, and

[0103] Styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR).

[0104] Item 5: The female snap-fit ​​connector according to any one of the above, wherein the material of the conductive particles is selected from the group consisting of:

[0105] carbon;

[0106] Poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene)polystyrene sulfonate (PEDOT:PSS);

[0107] silver;

[0108] Metal;

[0109] Carbon black;

[0110] graphite;

[0111] Graphene;

[0112] Carbon nanoparticles;

[0113] Polyacetylene (PA);

[0114] Polyaniline (PANI);

[0115] Polypyrrole (PPY);

[0116] Poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene): Poly(styrene sulfonic acid) (PEDOT: PSS);

[0117] Nanoparticles of silver, gold, copper, and nickel; and

[0118] Any of the above alloys.

[0119] Item 6: A female snap connector according to any of the above, wherein the cap is divided into several parts by one or more gaps between them to increase the elasticity of the cap.

[0120] Item 7: A female snap connector according to any of the preceding items, wherein the female snap connector includes an outer side for interacting with the male snap connector and an inner side opposite to the outer side, and the socket includes a trimmed (e.g., beveled) entry surface disposed on the outer side for the cap, a necked portion connected to the entry surface, and an opening defined by the necked portion in the narrowest part.

[0121] Item 8: The female snap-fit ​​connector according to Item 7, wherein the socket includes an edge disposed on the inner side and surrounding the opening, and the female snap-fit ​​connector includes a peripheral groove located between the edge and the base of the periphery for increasing the flexibility of the socket.

[0122] Item 9: An electrode unit comprising an electrode, a female snap-fit ​​connector, a body for mechanically connecting the electrode to a female snap-fit ​​connector, and a conductive path formed in the body for electrically connecting the electrode to the female snap-fit ​​connector, wherein the female snap-fit ​​connector is a female snap-fit ​​connector according to any of the preceding items.

[0123] Item 10: A telemetry device comprising a housing and a circuit board contained within the housing, wherein a female snap-fit ​​connector according to any one of items 1 to 8 is mechanically and electrically connected to the circuit board and extends through the housing.

[0124] Item 11: The telemetry device according to Item 10, wherein the housing comprises two mating housing portions, the telemetry device includes an electromechanical interface comprising one or more female snap-fit ​​connectors, and a seal comprising one or more female snap-fit ​​connectors, wherein the seal seals the housing portions against each other.

[0125] Item 12: The telemetry device according to Item 10 or 11, wherein the seal is configured to create a waterproof seal between the housing portions of the housing.

[0126] Item 13: A wearable device comprising a host garment configured for wear by a user, a first electrode unit incorporated in the host garment according to Item 9, and a second electrode unit incorporated in the host garment according to Item 9, the second electrode units being positioned such that female snap connectors are arranged adjacent to each other to receive mating operations of associated telemetry devices.

[0127] Item 14: The wearable device according to Item 13, wherein the wearable device includes a telemetry device comprising a male snap connector that is connected to the host garment via a female snap connector of the first and second electrode units for mating operation.

[0128] Item 15: A method for manufacturing a female snap connector according to any one of items 1 to 8, wherein the base and the cap are formed into an integral part using an additive manufacturing method.

[0129] Item 16: A method of manufacturing an electrode unit according to Item 9, comprising providing an electrode and a body, manufacturing a female snap-fit ​​connector using the method of Item 14, providing a conductive path between the female snap-fit ​​connector and the electrode by joining the body, the female snap-fit ​​connector and the electrode into an integral part, wherein the conductive path is formed at least in part by making the body include a conductive base for connecting the female snap-fit ​​connector to the electrode or by making the body include a conductive layer for connecting the female snap-fit ​​connector to the electrode.

[0130] Item 17: The method according to Item 16, wherein the joining includes making the female connector and the electrode as a single component by casting, ultrasonic welding, hot upsetting, high-frequency welding, bonding with conductive adhesive or thermal bonding.

[0131] It should be understood that the embodiments described herein are not limited to the specific structures, processes, or materials described herein, but can be extended to equivalents that can be recognized by those skilled in the art. It should also be understood that the terminology used herein is for describing specific embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting.

[0132] Throughout this specification, the reference to "an embodiment" or "an embodiment" means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment may be included in at least one embodiment of the invention. Therefore, the terms "in an embodiment" or "in one embodiment" appearing throughout this specification do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment.

[0133] In this document, for convenience, multiple items, structural elements, constituent elements, and / or materials may be presented in a common list. However, these lists should be interpreted as each component in the list being independently identified as a separate and unique component. Therefore, unless otherwise stated, each component in such a list should not be construed as a practical equivalent of any other component in the same list simply because it appears in the common group. Furthermore, various embodiments and examples of the invention may also relate to alternatives to various components therein. It should be understood that such embodiments, examples, and alternatives should not be construed as practical equivalents of each other, but should be considered as independent and autonomous manifestations of the invention.

[0134] Furthermore, in one or more embodiments, the described features, structures, or characteristics can be combined in any suitable manner. Numerous specific details, such as examples of length, width, shape, etc., are provided in this description to facilitate a thorough understanding of embodiments of the invention. However, those skilled in the art will understand that the invention can be practiced without one or more specific details, or using other methods, components, materials, etc. Additionally, to avoid obscuring various aspects of the invention, well-known structures, materials, or operations have not been shown or described in detail.

[0135] While the foregoing embodiments illustrate the principles of the invention in one or more specific applications, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications can be made to the form, use, and details of the solutions without inventive effort or departing from the principles and concepts of the invention. Therefore, the invention is not intended to be limited beyond the appended claims.

[0136] The verbs “comprising” and “including” are used herein as open-ended qualifiers, neither excluding nor requiring the presence of any unstated features. Unless otherwise expressly stated, the features recited in the dependent claims may be freely combined with each other. Furthermore, it should be understood that the use of “an” or “a” (i.e., the singular form) herein does not exclude the plural form.

[0137] List of reference numerals

[0138]

[0139]

Claims

1. A female snap-fit ​​connector (120), comprising: Base (124); The cap (121) opposite the base (124) is used to form the depth of the female snap connector (120), and A socket (122) formed in the cap (121) is for receiving a protrusion of a mating male snap-fit ​​connector. The socket (122) is configured to undergo elastic deformation to conform to the complementary shape of the protrusion's passage within the socket (122) during insertion and removal of the protrusion into the depth dimension of the female snap-fit ​​connector (120). The outer side (113) for interacting with the male snap connector, and The inner side (114) opposite to the outer side (113), The substrate of the female snap-fit ​​connector (120) is a conductive elastomer or includes a conductive elastomer. Its features are: The socket (122) includes: An obliquely cut entry surface (129) is provided on the outer side (113) for the cap (121). The necked portion (128) is connected to the entry surface (129). The opening (126), the narrowest part of which is defined by the necked portion (128), and The edge (127) provided on the inner side (114) and surrounding the opening (126), and The female snap-fit ​​connector (120) includes a peripheral groove (125) located between the edge (127) and the base (124) of the periphery for increasing the flexibility of the socket (122).

2. The female snap-fit ​​connector (120) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The base (124) and the cap (121) are formed as a single unit.

3. The female snap-fit ​​connector (120) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The matrix of the conductive elastomer is selected from any of the following: Natural rubber, Thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), Thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs) Organosilicon, EPDM rubber, and Styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR).

4. The female snap-fit ​​connector (120) according to claim 3, characterized in that, The organosilicon is polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS).

5. The female snap-fit ​​connector (120) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The substrate includes conductive particles, wherein the material of the conductive particles is selected from any of the following: carbon; Poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene)polystyrene sulfonate (PEDOT:PSS); Metal; Carbon black; graphite; Graphene; Carbon nanoparticles; Polyacetylene (PA); Polyaniline (PANI); Polypyrrole (PPY); Metal alloys.

6. The female snap-fit ​​connector (120) according to claim 5, characterized in that, The metal includes silver.

7. The female snap-fit ​​connector (120) according to claim 6, characterized in that, The metal includes nanoparticles of silver, gold, copper, or nickel.

8. The female snap-fit ​​connector (120) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The cap (121) is divided into several parts by one or more gaps (123) between each other to increase the elasticity of the cap (121).

9. An electrode unit (100), comprising: Electrode (130); Female snap-fit ​​connector (120); The electrode (130) is mechanically connected to the body (110) of the female snap connector (120), and Conductive pathways (140) formed in the body (110) are used to electrically connect the electrode (130) to the female snap connector (120). The feature is that the female snap-fit ​​connector (120) is the female snap-fit ​​connector according to any one of claims 1-8.

10. A telemetry device (1000), comprising: Casing (1200), and The circuit board (1300) contained within the housing (1200), The feature is that the female snap connector (120) according to any one of claims 1-8 is mechanically and electrically connected to the circuit board (1300) and extends through the housing (1200).

11. The telemetry device (1000) according to claim 10, characterized in that, The housing (1200) comprises two mating housing parts, and The telemetry device (1000) includes an electromechanical interface (1100) comprising one or more of the female snap-fit ​​connectors (120) and a seal (1160) comprising the one or more female snap-fit ​​connectors (120), wherein the seal (1160) seals the housing components to each other.

12. The telemetry device (1000) according to claim 11, characterized in that, The seal (1160) is configured to create a waterproof seal between the housing portions of the housing (1200).

13. A wearable device, comprising: Constructed as a host garment worn by the user; Combined with the first electrode unit (100) in the host garment, the first electrode unit (100) is the electrode unit according to claim 9, and The second electrode unit (100) is incorporated in the host garment, the second electrode unit (100) being the electrode unit according to claim 9, and positioned such that the female snap connectors (120) are arranged adjacent to each other to receive the mating operation of the associated telemetry device.

14. The wearable device according to claim 13, characterized in that, The wearable device includes a telemetry device, which includes a male snap connector that is connected to the host garment for mating operation via a female snap connector of the first electrode unit and the second electrode unit.

15. A method for manufacturing a female snap-fit ​​connector (120) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that, The base (124) and the cap (121) are made into an integral part using an additive manufacturing method.

16. A method for manufacturing an electrode unit (100) according to claim 9, characterized in that: Electrodes (130) and a body (110) are provided; The female snap-fit ​​connector (120) is manufactured using the method according to claim 15. By joining the body (110), the female snap connector (120), and the electrode (130) into a single integral component, a conductive path (140) is provided between the female snap connector (120) and the electrode (130), wherein the conductive path (140) is formed at least partially by: The body (110) includes a conductive substrate for connecting the female snap connector (120) to the electrode (130), or The body (110) includes a conductive layer that connects the female snap connector (120) to the electrode (130).

17. The method according to claim 16, characterized in that, The joining includes making the female connector (120) and the electrode (130) a single unit by means of casting, ultrasonic welding, hot upsetting, high frequency welding, bonding with conductive adhesive or thermal bonding.

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