Electrode and garment systems and methods for improved delivery of neuromuscular stimulation

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a system for automatically placing two or more electrodes on different muscle groups. In some embodiments, the system includes an electrode sheet comprising two or more electrodes. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the two or more electrodes is printed on an electrode sheet, where the printed portion comprises a conductive material. In some embodiments, the system includes a garment wrap. In some embodiments, the garment wrap includes an aperture configured to enable a controller coupled to the electrode tab to pass through the garment wrap. In some embodiments, the system includes a controller configured to be coupled to the garment wrap and the electrode tabs. In some embodiments, the controller is configured to transmit electrical signals to two or more electrodes to activate different muscle groups.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority and benefit to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 453,361, filed March 20, 2023, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Background Technology

[0003] Currently, typical neuromuscular electrical stimulation (“NMES”) systems require users to manually place multiple electrodes in specific locations, often resulting in electrode misplacement and / or inconsistent placement. Some existing systems involve integrating electrodes into clothing such as wraps. However, these integrated systems have fixed electrode positioning and require multiple garments for different parts of the body.

[0004] Therefore, there is a need in the art for an NMES system that enables multiple electrode pad configurations and allows the same garment to be used on multiple parts of the body. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In some embodiments, the system relates to improving the conductive interface between a neuromuscular electrical stimulator (“muscle stimulator”) and a user’s skin. In some embodiments, the system includes one or more electrodes, each formed on an electrode template configured to properly position one or more electrode pads on the user’s body. In some embodiments, the one or more electrodes are non-sterile, intended for single-patient use only, and / or disposable. In some embodiments, the electrodes include conductive pads in contact with the skin. In some embodiments, electrical stimulation pulses are delivered through electrodes on the skin in direct proximity to the muscle to be stimulated. In some embodiments, the electrodes are configured to be worn by the user (e.g., for approximately 30 minutes per day) for multiple uses. In some embodiments, the electrodes are configured to be replaceable (e.g., for use every two weeks or 14 times).

[0006] In some embodiments, electrodes (also referred to as electrode pads) are configured to be worn on a user's thigh. In some embodiments, the electrode pads are configured to cover the quadriceps muscle to apply electrical stimulation therapy when connected to a controller including a muscle stimulator. In some embodiments, the electrodes include mirror and / or identical configurations for the right thigh and the knee thigh.

[0007] In some embodiments, the electrode comprises multiple layers. In some embodiments, the skin contact layer of the electrode pad consists of three separate medical-grade, self-adhesive, biocompatible, and conductive hydrogel (gel) pads. In some embodiments, the gel pads are placed on a single (e.g., polyethylene terephthalate (PET)) pad. In some embodiments, as a non-limiting example, the gel pads comprise two square 2-inch × 4-inch (5.1 cm × 10.2 cm) pads and a circular pad with a diameter of 2.165 inches (5.5 cm). In some embodiments, the overall dimensions of the electrode pad, as a non-limiting example, are 15.6 cm × 21.8 cm (6.14 inches × 8.58 inches). In some embodiments, the pads may comprise any desired shape.

[0008] In some embodiments, the outermost layer of the electrode includes a polygonal (e.g., triangular) shaped connector for housing magnetism for electrical connection to a muscle stimulator. In some embodiments, the electrode includes a flexible circuit having printed silver ink traces on a (PET) film configured to provide conductivity from the muscle stimulator to the gel pad. In some embodiments, the silver traces are covered by a polypropylene dielectric layer that protects the traces. In some embodiments, when not in use, the electrode sheet is covered by a release linear (paper-lined) liner.

[0009] In some embodiments, this disclosure relates to a system for positioning electrodes on muscle groups. In some embodiments, the system includes one or more electrode pads, a flexible circuit, and two or more electrodes. In some embodiments, the flexible circuit is coupled to the electrode pad. In some embodiments, the two or more electrodes are coupled to the electrode pad. In some embodiments, the two or more electrodes are positioned on the electrode pad to each activate a different muscle group.

[0010] In some embodiments, the electrode pad includes an adhesive. In some embodiments, the adhesive is configured to hold the electrode pad in a fixed position on the user. In some embodiments, the adhesive is placed between two or more electrodes. In some embodiments, the electrode pad is configured not to completely wrap around the user's limb.

[0011] In some embodiments, the electrode sheet includes a non-conductive portion. In some embodiments, at least a portion of each of two or more electrodes on the electrode sheet includes a conductive material printed on the non-conductive portion.

[0012] In some embodiments, the electrode sheet includes a controller coupler. In some embodiments, the controller coupler is positioned on one side of the electrode sheet opposite two or more electrodes. In some embodiments, the controller coupler includes a protrusion configured to direct controller input to controller contacts on the electrode sheet.

[0013] In some embodiments, the system further includes a flexible garment. In some embodiments, the flexible garment is configured to wrap around a user's limb. In some embodiments, the flexible garment is configured to be secured to itself when wrapping around the user's limb. In some embodiments, the flexible garment includes one or more body portions, a left extension arm, and a right extension arm. In some embodiments, the body portion includes a controller attachment portion containing a hole. In some embodiments, the hole is configured to allow a protrusion to pass through the hole.

[0014] In some embodiments, the controller is configured to be coupled to a controller attachment portion. In some embodiments, the controller is held in place by a protrusion. In some embodiments, the controller coupler, the hole, and / or the controller attachment portion all comprise substantially the same shape.

[0015] In some embodiments, the controller is configured to deliver power to the two or more electrodes. In some embodiments, the electrode pads include thigh pads. In some embodiments, each thigh pad includes electrode placement for two or more muscle groups comprising the rectus femoris muscle group, the vastus lateralis muscle group, and / or the vastus medialis muscle group.

[0016] In some embodiments, each of the two or more electrodes comprises a conductive material. In some embodiments, the conductive material comprises a grid pattern. In some embodiments, the grid pattern is printed on an electrode sheet. Attached Figure Description

[0017] Figure 1 A non-limiting assembly view of the system according to some embodiments is shown.

[0018] Figure 2 The illustration shows the placement of electrodes on a patient's thigh prior to the application of a wrap, according to some embodiments.

[0019] Figure 3 The application of the coating on the electrode according to some embodiments is described.

[0020] Figure 4 The illustration shows a non-limiting example of how a user can wear the system according to some embodiments.

[0021] Figure 5A view of the skin contact side of an electrode according to some embodiments is shown.

[0022] Figure 6 The top side of the electrodes, including a triangular coupling and a magnetic connector, is shown according to some embodiments.

[0023] Figure 7 A skin-contact side cover according to some embodiments is shown.

[0024] Figure 8 The top of the controller is shown according to some embodiments.

[0025] Figure 9 The bottom of the controller is shown according to some embodiments.

[0026] Figure 10 Another view of the top side of the electrode according to some embodiments is illustrated.

[0027] Figure 11 Another view of the skin contact side is shown according to some embodiments.

[0028] Figure 12 Various components of the right-side electrode according to some embodiments are shown.

[0029] Figure 13 Various components of the left electrode according to some embodiments are shown.

[0030] Figure 14 The illustration shows how an electrode pad for an electrode on the left knee, according to some embodiments, is arranged for treating left knee pain.

[0031] Figure 15 A first electrode pattern according to some embodiments is shown.

[0032] Figure 16 A second electrode pattern according to some embodiments is shown.

[0033] Figure 17 A third electrode pattern according to some embodiments is shown.

[0034] Figure 18 A fourth electrode pattern according to some embodiments is shown.

[0035] Figure 19 A fifth electrode pattern according to some embodiments is shown.

[0036] Figure 20 The illustration shows a multi-layered configuration of the right leg electrode according to some embodiments.

[0037] Figure 21Further details of the circuitry and pattern arrangement for the right thigh electrode, according to some embodiments, are shown.

[0038] Figure 22 Additional details of the circuit pattern assembled on the electrode template according to some embodiments are illustrated.

[0039] Figure 23 The illustration shows how matching forming coupling, according to some embodiments, ensures proper positioning of the wrapping on the electrode.

[0040] Figure 24 The image depicts coupling a controller to electrodes and / or clothing according to some embodiments.

[0041] Figure 25 The illustration shows the internal components of a controller and an electrical interface with a conductive pattern according to some embodiments.

[0042] Figure 26 An exploded view of an electrode according to some embodiments is shown.

[0043] Figure 27 The system QR code and system graphical user interface are shown according to some embodiments.

[0044] Figure 28 Impedance test data according to some embodiments are shown.

[0045] Figure 29 The illustration shows a computer system 110 that enables or includes systems and methods according to some embodiments. Detailed Implementation

[0046] In some embodiments, the systems and methods described herein (collectively, the “System”) relate to therapeutic medical devices configured to apply novel neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) therapy to enhance and / or rehabilitate muscles and / or joints and / or treat joint pain. In some embodiments, joint pain is associated with arthritis. In some embodiments, the System includes one or more controllers, a pulse generator, clothing, and / or electrodes. In some embodiments, the clothing includes a wrap. As used herein, any reference to a particular kind (e.g., wrap, arthritis) in defining the boundaries and limits of the System also refers to a genus (e.g., clothing, joint pain) and may be interchangeable with the genus.

[0047] Figure 1A non-limiting assembled view of a system according to some embodiments is shown. In some embodiments, the garment is configured to provide support and / or protection for electrodes positioned on a part of the user's body (e.g., the thigh) to deliver NMES therapy to one or more muscles (e.g., the quadriceps). In some embodiments, the system includes a pulse generator and / or controller (collectively referred to herein as the "controller") configured to be connected to the electrodes using a mating-forming coupling interface. In some embodiments, the mating-forming coupling interface includes a triangular block interface. In some embodiments, the system is configured such that the wrapping can be placed above the electrodes and below the controller to secure the electrode pads to the skin and provide compression.

[0048] Figure 1 A non-limiting assembly view of the system according to some embodiments is shown. Figure 2 The illustration shows the placement of electrodes on a patient's thigh prior to the application of a wrap, according to some embodiments. Figure 3 The application of the coating on the electrode according to some embodiments is described. Figure 4 The illustration shows a non-limiting example of how a wearable system can be implemented according to some embodiments.

[0049] Figure 5 A view of the skin contact side of an electrode according to some embodiments is shown. In some embodiments, the skin contact electrode includes one or more conductive pads containing conductive gel. Figure 6 The top side of the electrodes, including a triangular coupling and a magnetic connector, is shown according to some embodiments. Figure 7 A skin-contact side cover according to some embodiments is shown. In some embodiments, the skin-contact cover is configured to protect the electrodes from drying out. Figure 8 The top of the controller is shown according to some embodiments. Figure 9 The bottom of a controller is shown according to some embodiments. In some embodiments, the bottom of the controller includes a polygonal (e.g., triangular) and / or magnetic connector.

[0050] Figure 10 The illustration shows another view of the top side of an electrode according to some embodiments. In some embodiments, one or more electrodes are configured and / or formed for application to a specific area of ​​the body. Figure 11 Another view of the skin contact side is shown according to some embodiments. In some embodiments, one or more electrodes include a varying diameter and / or a varying shape pattern configured to distribute current in a predetermined manner. Figure 12 Various components of the right-side electrode according to some embodiments are shown. Figure 13 Various components of the left electrode according to some embodiments are shown.

[0051] Figure 14The illustration depicts how electrode pads for a left knee electrode, according to some embodiments, are arranged for treating left knee pain. In some embodiments, each electrode described herein is configured to treat a specific area of ​​the body. In some embodiments, one or more electrode pads are pre-arranged on an electrode template that provides the benefit of consistent placement and / or maximum effective stimulation. For example, according to... Figure 14 The non-limiting arrangement shown depicts a left knee electrode configured to apply pain therapy by ensuring adequate coverage of the vastus medialis oblique (VMO) and rectus femoris (RF) muscles. In some embodiments, these quadriceps muscles play a crucial role in knee joint off-loading. In some embodiments, when these two muscles are activated and enhanced over time through the application of NMES therapy, they reduce compressive loads from the knee joint, resulting in knee pain relief and improved mobility. However, conventional systems often lead to incorrect electrode placement by patients, producing various undesirable outcomes. Therefore, in this non-limiting example, the electrode pads are pre-arranged to cover the VMO and RF muscles on either the right or left thigh.

[0052] In some embodiments, one or more sheets are configured, arranged, and / or positioned to activate muscle groups within a proximity range. In some embodiments, the sheets are configured to cover two or more muscle groups. In some embodiments, the sheets include two or more electrodes, each positioned to cover a separate muscle group. In some embodiments, the muscle group proximity range is between 4 inches and 12 inches. In some embodiments, the muscle group proximity range is between 6 inches and 10 inches.

[0053] In some embodiments, one or more patches include one or more shoulder patches. In some embodiments, the shoulder patch includes electrode placement for one or more muscle groups among the deltoid, infraspinatus, and / or teres major muscle groups. In some embodiments, one or more patches include one or more thigh patches. In some embodiments, the thigh patch includes electrode placement for one or more muscle groups among the rectus femoris, vastus lateralis, and / or vastus medialis muscle groups. In some embodiments, one or more patches include one or more ankle patches. In some embodiments, the ankle patch includes electrode placement for one or more muscle groups among the gastrocnemius, soleus, and tibialis anterior muscle groups. In some embodiments, one or more patches include forearm patches. In some embodiments, the forearm patch includes electrode placement for one or more muscle groups among the flexor carpi radialis, palmaris longus, and flexor carpi ulnaris muscle groups. In some embodiments, one or more patches include back patches. In some embodiments, the back patch includes electrode placement for one or more muscle groups among the erector spinae, latissimus dorsi, and trapezius muscle groups.

[0054] In some embodiments, one or more electrodes include electrode patterns configured to uniformly distribute current. In some embodiments, one or more electrodes include specific patterns for specific joints and / or regions of the body. In some embodiments, one or more electrode patterns include conductive material. In some embodiments, the conductive material includes conductive material with a grid pattern. In some embodiments, a first electrode pattern includes a lower conductivity region in the center and a higher conductivity region around the boundary. In some embodiments, the lower conductivity region includes less conductive material than the higher conductivity region. In some embodiments, the lower conductivity region includes holes between conductive materials that are larger than the holes in the higher conductivity region. In some embodiments, the central hole includes a hole within three holes in the center of the electrode pattern. In some embodiments, the boundary hole includes a hole within three holes at the edge of the pattern.

[0055] Figure 15 A first electrode pattern according to some embodiments is shown. In some embodiments, the parameters of the first electrode pattern include boundary holes that are 60%-90% of the area of ​​the central hole. Figure 16 A second electrode pattern according to some embodiments is shown. In some embodiments, the parameters of the second electrode pattern include boundary holes that are 30%-70% of the area of ​​the central hole. Figure 17 A third electrode pattern according to some embodiments is shown. In some embodiments, the third electrode pattern parameters include a central hole that is 10%-50% of the area of ​​the boundary holes. Figure 18 A fourth electrode pattern according to some embodiments is shown. In some embodiments, the fourth electrode pattern includes a grid pattern in which the aperture size variation is less than 10% in the electrode pattern. In some embodiments, the aperture density of the fourth electrode pattern is between 20% and 50% of the electrode pattern. Figure 19 A fifth electrode pattern according to some embodiments is shown. In some embodiments, the pore density of the fifth electrode pattern is between 50% and 80% of the electrode pattern. In some embodiments, variations in the electrode pattern in different directions are used to improve therapeutic effects.

[0056] Figure 20 The illustration depicts a multi-layered configuration of electrodes for the right leg according to some embodiments. In some embodiments, each electrode pad is configured for a specific joint and includes a multi-layered configuration. In some embodiments, the multi-layered configuration is similar to... Figure 20 The configuration shown is an exception except for the arrangement of electrode templates in one or more electrodes.

[0057] In some embodiments, layer 1 includes a mechanical connection to the stimulator. In some embodiments, layer 1 is secured by a downward force generated by magnetism to a single connection orientation to ensure a robust electrical connection with the stimulator's spring needle (see [link]). Figures 15-19 ).

[0058] In some embodiments, layer 2 includes a shaped dielectric layer that protects the conductive traces. Figure 17 A diamond-shaped dielectric layer is shown according to some embodiments.

[0059] In some embodiments, layer 3 includes conductive (e.g., silver ink) traces configured to be electrically connected to the stimulator and to transmit the electrical connection to the bottom side of the electrode sheet via vias (see [link]). Figures 15-19 ).

[0060] In some embodiments, layer 4 comprises a semi-flexible (e.g., polyethylene terephthalate (“PET”)) sheet to conform to body parts (e.g., thigh) and / or serves as a template sheet for the hydrogel carrier base layer and the top-to-bottom trace dielectric (see [link]). Figure 15 ).

[0061] In some embodiments, layer 5 includes one or more (e.g., three) electrode pattern grids comprising conductive (e.g., silver) ink traces that electrically distribute the stimulator's electrical output to three conductive hydrogel pads placed on the grids of electrodes. In some embodiments, two grids are provided in a rectangular pattern to cover the top of the thigh muscle (rectus femoris) and a third grid is provided in a circular pattern to cover the vastus medialis oblique muscle (see [link to documentation]). Figures 15-19 In some embodiments, as a non-limiting example, the gel pad is a 2-inch × 4-inch (5.1 cm × 10.2 cm) pad with a diameter of 2.165 inches (5.5 cm).

[0062] In some embodiments, layer 6 includes a dielectric layer that protects the mesh formed by the silver ink traces from contact with the skin. In some embodiments, the dielectric layer is substantially related to the size of the conductive hydrogel electrode.

[0063] In some embodiments, layer 7 comprises a medical-grade, self-adhesive, biocompatible conductive hydrogel covering a grid of silver ink for the electrode pattern, which results in an electrical connection to the skin in contact with the electrodes and / or the gel. In some embodiments, a non-limiting example of a hydrogel type is KM-40C manufactured by Katecho, Inc., Des Moines, Iowa.

[0064] In some embodiments, the manufacturing method and / or processing of the resulting product includes constructing one or more layers as described herein.

[0065] Figure 21 Further details of the circuitry and pattern arrangement for the right thigh electrode, according to some embodiments, are shown. Figure 22Additional details are illustrated of a flexible circuit pattern assembled on an electrode template according to some embodiments. In some embodiments, the manufacturing method includes casting hydrogel into exposed trace pads on the electrode template. In some embodiments, the system includes printed silver traces configured to transmit current from a controller to a printed silver mesh of electrodes.

[0066] Figure 23 An electrode connection, placed through clothing and connected to a controller according to some embodiments, is illustrated. In some embodiments, the "triangle" interface of this non-limiting example eliminates any potential possibility of the user placing the controller on the electrodes in the wrong orientation, because the triangle in the bottom of the controller must match the triangle on the electrode pad. Other interface shapes and sizes may be used in some embodiments.

[0067] In some embodiments, the controller uses a magnetic interface coupled to and / or located on the electrode plates. In some embodiments, the magnetic force ensures attachment and eliminates any "loose" connection between the two parts. Figure 24 The image depicts coupling a controller to an electrode according to some embodiments. Figure 25 The illustration shows the internal components of a controller and an electrical interface with a conductive pattern according to some embodiments.

[0068] Figure 26 An exploded view of electrodes according to some embodiments is shown. In some embodiments, the manufacturing method includes arranging one or more components as shown in this non-limiting example. In some embodiments, the system includes a kit comprising one or more individual multilayer electrodes, a garment, and / or a controller manufactured and / or arranged according to some embodiments.

[0069] Figure 27 A system QR code and a system graphical user interface (“GUI”) according to some embodiments are illustrated. In some embodiments, the GUI is configured for use by display electrodes. In some embodiments, the GUI includes a portion of an application (“App”) that executes one or more program instructions stored on one or more non-tangible computer-readable media. In some embodiments, the GUI is configured to be generated on a display of any type such as those described herein.

[0070] In some embodiments, the system is configured to scan and / or track electrode use. In some embodiments, the system is configured to predict and / or alert the user when the electrode should be replaced and / or the remaining electrode life. In some embodiments, one or more electrodes are consumables with a limited lifespan (e.g., 14 treatment sessions). In some embodiments, usage time, delays between uses, and / or treatment intensity are tracked to provide electrode lifespan input. In some embodiments, alarms or other notifications may be used to communicate the remaining electrode lifespan to the user. In some embodiments, as a non-limiting example, alerting the user improves safety by minimizing the risk of skin burns. In some embodiments, the electrode includes a QR code placed and / or integrated into the electrode pad. The QR code can be scanned and provides activation of the electrode lifespan function. Near-field communication or other wireless communication and / or passive or active radio frequency identification may be used to activate and / or track electrode lifespan. Figure 28 Impedance test data according to some embodiments are shown.

[0071] Figure 29 The illustration depicts a computer system 110 that enables or includes systems and methods according to some embodiments. In some embodiments, the computer system 110 is configured to operate and / or process computer-executable code of one or more software modules of the aforementioned systems and methods. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the computer system 110 is configured to operate and / or display information within one or more graphical user interfaces (e.g., HMIs) integrated with or coupled to the system.

[0072] In some embodiments, computer system 110 includes one or more processors 132. In some embodiments, at least one processor 132 is located at or coupled to one or more servers. In some embodiments, computer system 110 includes an application interface 135b and a network interface 135a coupled to at least one processor 132 capable of processing at least one operating system 134. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the interfaces 135a, 135b coupled to at least one processor 132 are configured to process one or more software modules (e.g., enterprise application 138). In some embodiments, software application module 138 includes server-based software. In some embodiments, software application module 138 is configured to host at least one user account and / or at least one client account, and / or is configured to operate using one or more processors 132 to transfer data between one or more of these accounts.

[0073] Considering the above embodiments, it is understood that, according to some embodiments, the system is configured to implement various computer-executable program steps involving data stored in one or more non-transient computer media. In some embodiments, the databases and models described throughout this disclosure are configured to store analytical models and other data on non-transient computer-readable storage media within a computer system 110 according to some embodiments, and on computer-readable storage media coupled to the computer system 110. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the above-described application of the system is stored on computer-readable storage media within the computer system 110 and on computer-readable storage media coupled to the computer system 110. In some embodiments, these operations are those that require physical manipulation of structures including electronics, charges, transistors, amplifiers, receivers, transmitters, and / or any conventional computer hardware to convert electrical inputs into different outputs. In some embodiments, these structures include one or more of electrical, electromagnetic, magnetic, optical, and / or magneto-optical signals that can be stored, transmitted, combined, compared, and otherwise manipulated. In some embodiments, computer system 110 includes at least one computer-readable medium 136 coupled to at least one of at least one data source 137a, at least one data storage device 137b, and / or at least one input / output device 137c. In some embodiments, computer system 110 is embodied as computer-readable code on computer-readable medium 136. In some embodiments, computer-readable medium 136 includes any data storage device for storing data configured to be subsequently read by a computer, such as computer 140. In some embodiments, non-transient computer-readable medium 136 includes any physical or material medium for tangibly storing desired information, steps, and / or instructions and configured to be accessed by computer 140 or processor 132. In some embodiments, non-transient computer-readable medium 136 includes hard disk drives, network-attached storage devices (NAS), read-only memory, random access memory, flash-based memory, CD-ROMs, CD-Rs, CD-RWs, DVDs, magnetic tapes, and / or other optical and non-optical data storage devices. In some embodiments, various other forms of computer-readable medium 136 are configured to transmit or carry instructions to one or more remote computers 140 and / or at least one user 131 (including routers, private or public networks, or other wired and wireless transmissions or channels). In some embodiments, software application module 138 is configured to send and receive data from a database (e.g., from computer-readable medium 136 including a data source 137a and a data storage device 137b constituting the database), and the data is configured to be received by software application module 138 from at least one other source.In some embodiments, at least one of the software application modules 138 is configured to be implemented by the computer system 110 to output data to at least one user 131 via at least one graphical user interface presented on at least one digital display.

[0074] In some embodiments, one or more non-transient computer-readable media 136 are distributed across a conventional computer network via a network interface 135a, wherein some embodiments storing the non-transient computer-readable media are stored and executed in a distributed manner. For example, in some embodiments, one or more components of the computer system 110 are configured to send and / or receive data via a local area network (“LAN”) 139a and / or an internet-coupled network 139b (e.g., wireless internet). In some embodiments, networks 139a, 139n include one or more wide area networks (“WAN”), direct connections (e.g., via a universal serial bus port), or other forms of computer-readable media 136, and / or any combination thereof.

[0075] In some embodiments, components of networks 139a, 139b include any number of personal computers 140, such as desktop computers, laptops, and / or any stationary, typically non-mobile, internet-connected devices coupled via LAN 139a. For example, some embodiments include one or more personal computers 140, a database 141, and / or a server 142 coupled via LAN 139a, configured for use by any type of user, including administrators. Some embodiments include one or more personal computers 140 coupled via network 139b. In some embodiments, one or more components of computer system 110 are configured to send or receive data via an internet network (e.g., network 139b). For example, some embodiments include at least one user 131a, 131b who is wirelessly coupled and accesses one or more software modules of a system including at least one enterprise application 138 via input and output (“I / O”) 137c. In some embodiments, computer system 110 is configured such that at least one user 131a, 131b can be coupled to access enterprise application 138 via I / O 137c through LAN 139a. In some embodiments, user 131a includes user 131a coupled to computer system 110 using a desktop computer and / or laptop computer or any fixed, generally non-mobile internet device coupled via internet 139b. In some embodiments, user 131b includes mobile user 131b coupled to computer system 110. In some embodiments, user 131b uses any mobile computing device 131c to connect to computer system 110 wirelessly, including but not limited to one or more personal digital assistants, at least one cellular phone, at least one mobile phone, at least one smartphone, at least one pager, at least one digital tablet and / or at least one fixed or mobile internet device.

[0076] In some embodiments, the subject matter described herein relates to a technological improvement in the field of NMES by providing electrodes pre-positioned on a template that can be applied before being covered by clothing and / or attached to a controller. This disclosure describes in detail how a system comprising a machine having one or more computers, including one or more processors and one or more non-transient computer-readable media, can be implemented. Instructions executed by the machine cannot be executed in the human mind or derived by a human using pen and paper; instead, the machine needs to convert process input data into useful output data. Furthermore, the claims herein do not attempt to associate judicial exceptions with known conventional steps implemented by general-purpose computers, nor do they attempt to associate judicial exceptions with the technical field simply by linking them. In fact, the systems and methods described herein were unknown and / or did not exist in the public domain at the time of filing, and they offer advantages of technological improvements unknown in the prior art. Furthermore, the system includes unconventional steps that limit the claims to useful applications.

[0077] It is understood that the application of this system is not limited to the structural details and component arrangements presented in the previous specification or illustrated in the accompanying drawings. The systems and methods disclosed herein fall within the scope of many embodiments. The foregoing discussion is presented to enable those skilled in the art to make and use embodiments of the system. Any part of the structure and / or principle included in some embodiments can be applied to any and / or all embodiments: it is understood that features from some embodiments presented herein can be combined with other features according to some other embodiments. Therefore, some embodiments of the system are not intended to be limited to what is illustrated, but are conformed to the widest scope consistent with all the principles and features disclosed herein.

[0078] Some embodiments of the system present specific values ​​and / or setpoints. These values ​​and setpoints are not intended to be limiting, but are merely examples of higher configurations relative to lower configurations, and are intended to assist those skilled in the art in building and using the system.

[0079] Any text in the accompanying drawings is part of the system disclosure and should be understood to be readily incorporated into any description of the system's boundaries and limits. Any functional language in the accompanying drawings is a reference to the system configured to perform said functions, and the structures shown or described in the drawings are considered to include the system containing said structures. Any diagrams depicting content to be displayed on a graphical user interface are a disclosure of a system configured to generate and display the content of a graphical user interface. It should be understood that using the depiction of images in the accompanying drawings to define the system's boundaries and limits does not require a corresponding textual description in a written specification to fall within the scope of this disclosure.

[0080] Furthermore, as the applicant's own lexicographer, the applicant assigns explicit meaning to and / or denies the following terms within the scope of the claims:

[0081] The applicant defines any use of "and / or" as, for example, "A and / or B", or "at least one of A and / or B" to mean element A alone, element B alone, or elements A and B together. Furthermore, the expressions "at least one of A, B, and C", "at least one of A, B, or C", or "at least one of A, B, or C or any combination thereof" are each defined as meaning element A alone, element B alone, element C alone, or any combination of elements A, B, and C, such as, for example, AB, AC, BC, or ABC.

[0082] When used with numerical values, “basically” and “approximately” include a difference of 5% or less from the same unit and / or proportion of the measured value.

[0083] As used herein, “simultaneous” includes lag and / or delay associated with conventional and / or proprietary computers, such as processors and / or networks described herein that attempt to process multiple types of data simultaneously. “Simultaneous” also includes the time it takes for digital signals to be transmitted from one physical location to another, whether via wireless and / or wired networks and / or within processor circuitry.

[0084] As used herein, the words “can” or “may” or their derivatives (e.g., the system display can show X) are for descriptive purposes only and should be understood as synonymous with and / or interchangeable with “configured to” (e.g., the computer is configured to execute instruction X) when defining the boundaries and limits of the system. In some embodiments, the phrase “configured to” also refers to the steps of configuring a structure or computer to perform a function.

[0085] Furthermore, the term "configured as" means that the limitations described in the specification and / or claims must be arranged in a manner that performs the function: "configured as" excludes structures that are "capable" of being modified to perform the function, but for which the disclosure associated with the art does not explicitly teach to do so. For example, the statement "configured to receive fluid from structure X at the upper part and to transport fluid from the lower part to a container of structure Y" is limited to a system in which structures X, Y, and the container are all disclosed as being arranged to perform the function. The statement "configured as" excludes elements that may be "capable" of performing the function simply by virtue of their construction, but for which the associated disclosure (or the lack thereof) does not provide teaching to make such modifications to satisfy the functional limitations among all the structures. Another example is "a computer system configured as or programmed to execute a series of instructions X, Y, and Z." In this example, the instructions must exist on a non-transient computer-readable medium such that the computer system is "configured to" and / or "programmed to" execute the instructions: "configured to" and / or "programmed to" excludes techniques that teach only that a computer system with a non-transient computer-readable medium is "capable" of storing the instructions thereon, but does not have teachings that the instructions X, Y, and Z are programmed and stored thereon. The expression "configured to" can also be interpreted as synonymous with operatively connected when used in conjunction with physical structure.

[0086] It is understood that the wording and terminology used herein are for descriptive purposes only and should not be considered limiting. The use of “including,” “comprising,” or “having,” and variations thereof in this document means to include the items listed thereafter and their equivalents, as well as additional items. Unless otherwise stated or limited, the terms “installation,” “connection,” “support,” and “coupling,” and variations thereof, are used extensively and include both direct and indirect installations, connections, supports, and couplings. Furthermore, “connection” and “coupling” are not limited to physical or mechanical connections or couplings.

[0087] The detailed description above will be read with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which similar elements in different drawings have the same reference numerals. The drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale, depict some embodiments and are not intended to limit the scope of embodiments of the system.

[0088] Any operations described herein that form part of this invention are useful machine operations. This invention also relates to devices or apparatuses for performing these operations. All flowcharts presented herein represent computer-implemented steps and / or visual representations of algorithms implemented by a system. Apparatus may be specifically constructed for a desired purpose, such as a special-purpose computer. When defined as a special-purpose computer, it may also perform other processes, program executions, or routines that are not part of that special purpose, while still being able to operate for that special purpose. Alternatively, operations may be processed by a general-purpose computer selectively activated or configured by one or more computer programs stored in computer memory, cache, or obtained via a network. When data is obtained via a network, the data may be processed by other computers on the network, such as a computing resource cloud.

[0089] Embodiments of the present invention can also be defined as machines that transform data from one state to another. The data may represent an article, which may be represented as an electronic signal and manipulated electronically. In some cases, the transformed data may be visually depicted on a display, representing a physical object resulting from the data transformation. The transformed data may be typically stored in a storage device, or in a specific format capable of constructing or depicting physical and tangible objects. In some embodiments, manipulation may be performed by a processor. In such examples, the processor thus transforms data from one thing to another. Furthermore, some embodiments include methods that can be processed by one or more machines or processors that can be connected via a network. Each machine can transform data from one state or thing to another, and can also process the data, store the data in a storage device, transmit the data over a network, display the results, or communicate the results to another machine. As used herein, computer-readable storage media refers to physical or tangible storage devices (as opposed to signals) and includes, but is not limited to, volatile and non-volatile, removable and non-removable storage media implemented in any method or technique for the tangible storage of information such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data.

[0090] Although, according to some embodiments, method operations are presented in a specific order, the execution of those steps is not required to occur in the listed order unless explicitly specified. Furthermore, other housekeeping operations can be performed between operations, operations can be adjusted so that they occur at slightly different times, and / or operations can be distributed in a system that allows processing operations to occur at various intervals associated with the processing, provided that the processing of the overriding operations is performed in the desired manner and produces the desired system output.

[0091] Those skilled in the art will recognize that while the invention has been described above with reference to specific embodiments and examples, it is not necessarily limited thereto, and many other embodiments, examples, uses, modifications and deviations from the embodiments, examples, and uses are intended to be included in the appended claims. The full disclosure of each patent and publication cited herein is incorporated by reference, just as each such patent or publication is individually incorporated herein by reference. Various features and advantages of the invention are set forth in the following claims.

Claims

1. A system for positioning electrodes on a muscle group, comprising: Electrode plates, Flexible circuits, and Two or more electrodes; The flexible circuit is coupled to the electrode sheet; The two or more electrodes are coupled to the electrode sheet; and The two or more electrodes are positioned on the electrode pads to activate different muscle groups, respectively.

2. The system as described in claim 1, The electrode sheet includes an adhesive.

3. The system as described in claim 2, The adhesive is configured to hold the electrode pads in a fixed position on the user.

4. The system as described in claim 3, The adhesive is placed between the two or more electrodes; The electrode pads are configured not to completely wrap around the user's limbs.

5. The system as described in claim 1, The electrode sheet includes a non-conductive portion; and At least a portion of each of the two or more electrodes on the electrode sheet comprises conductive material printed on the non-conductive portion.

6. The system as described in claim 1, The electrode sheet includes a controller coupler; The controller coupler is located on the side of the electrode sheet opposite to the two or more electrodes.

7. The system as described in claim 6, The controller coupler includes a protrusion configured to direct controller input to controller contacts on the electrode plate.

8. The system as described in claim 1, This also includes flexible clothing; The flexible clothing is configured to wrap around the user's limbs; and The flexible garment is configured to be secured to itself when it surrounds the user's limbs.

9. The system as described in claim 8, The flexible garment mentioned above includes: Main body, Left extension arm, and Right extension arm.

10. The system as described in claim 9, The electrode sheet includes a controller coupler; The controller coupler includes a protrusion configured to direct controller input from the controller to controller contacts on the electrode sheet; The main body portion includes a controller attachment portion containing holes; and The hole is configured such that the protrusion can pass through it.

11. The system as described in claim 10, The controller is configured to be coupled to the controller attachment portion; and The controller is held in place by the protruding portion.

12. The system as described in claim 11, The controller coupler, the hole, and the controller attachment portion all have substantially the same shape.

13. The system as described in claim 11, The controller is configured to deliver power to the two or more electrodes.

14. The system as described in claim 1, The electrode pads include thigh pads; and Each thigh piece includes electrode placement for two or more muscle groups, said two or more muscle groups being derived from a muscle group comprising the rectus femoris muscle group, the vastus lateralis muscle group, and / or the vastus medialis muscle group.

15. The system as described in claim 1, Each of the two or more electrodes comprises a conductive material; The conductive material comprises a grid pattern; and The grid pattern is printed on the electrode sheet.

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