Wearable transcranial electrical stimulation device

Through the adjustable design of the transverse and vertical hoops and the wearing transcranial electrical stimulation device made of silicone, the problems of poor contact with the electrode and the scalp and discomfort are solved, and the accuracy and comfort of electrical stimulation are achieved.

CN223054918UActive Publication Date: 2025-07-04HEFEI FOURTH PEOPLES HOSPITAL
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Patent Information

Application Number
CN202421917769.5
Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Utility models(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2024-08-09
Publication Date
2025-07-04
Estimated Expiration
2034-08-09

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

The existing transcranial electrical stimulation devices cannot be flexibly adjusted according to the head size and shape of different users, resulting in poor contact between the electrode and the scalp, affecting the stimulation effect, and will bring pressure and discomfort to the user when worn.

Method used

The adjustable design of horizontal and vertical hoops is adopted, combined with sliding rods, rotating connectors and arc-shaped structure, to ensure that the electrode plate can accurately adjust the position and angle, use silicone material and buffer sleeve to reduce pressure, and use telescopic wires to adjust the electrical stimulation parameters.

Benefits of technology

It achieves good contact between the electrode and the scalp, reduces wearing pressure and discomfort, improves the accuracy and comfort of electrical stimulation, adapts to different head shapes, and supports long-term use.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

The utility model belongs to the technical field of medical instruments, in particular to a wearable transcranial electrical stimulation device, which comprises a transverse hoop and a vertical hoop, the transverse hoop is fixedly connected with a mounting block, the vertical hoop is adjusted with the transverse hoop by sliding in the mounting block, one end of the transverse hoop and one end of the vertical hoop are respectively provided with a clamping groove, and the transverse hoop and the vertical hoop are connected with the mounting block. The transverse hoop and the vertical hoop adjust the sliding clamping rod through the clamping grooves, the transverse hoop connecting clamping rod is provided with a sliding way, the interior of the sliding way is connected with a transverse electrode plate in a sliding mode, meanwhile, the bottom of the transverse hoop connecting clamping rod is rotationally connected with a connecting piece, the connecting piece is rotationally connected with a support, and the support is rotationally connected with an auricle cover. The size of the transverse hoop and the vertical hoop of the device can be adjusted, the clamping rod can slide and rotate, the position of the electrode plate can be accurately adjusted, the device can adapt to the head circumference, the head shape and the brain structure difference of different users, it is ensured that the electrodes make good contact with the scalp, and accurate and effective electrical stimulation is achieved.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] The utility model relates to the technical field of medical devices, and particularly relates to a wearable transcranial electrical stimulation device. Background Technique

[0002] In the fields of modern medicine and neuroscience, transcranial electrical stimulation technology, as a non-invasive neuromodulation method, has been gradually attracting attention. Traditional transcranial electrical stimulation devices often have problems such as uncomfortable wearing, difficulty in accurately positioning the stimulation area, and inability to adapt to the differences in the head shapes of different individuals during use.

[0003] In order to improve the effect of transcranial electrical stimulation and the user experience, more user-friendly and precise wearable transcranial electrical stimulation devices have been developed. This kind of device aims to better fit the user's head through innovative structural design, ensure that the electrodes can accurately act on specific brain regions, and thus achieve more effective neuromodulation.

[0004] With the continuous deepening of people's understanding of brain functions and neurological diseases, the demand for transcranial electrical stimulation devices is also increasing day by day. It can not only be applied in the medical field, such as treating neuropsychiatric diseases such as depression and Parkinson's disease, but also has potential application value in cognitive enhancement, rehabilitation training, etc.

[0005] However, some existing transcranial electrical stimulation devices have many deficiencies in actual applications. For example, due to the fixed structure of some devices, they cannot be flexibly adjusted according to the head sizes and shapes of different users, resulting in poor contact between the electrodes and the scalp and affecting the stimulation effect; there are also some devices that will bring greater pressure and discomfort to users when worn, making it difficult for users to use for a long time.

[0006] Therefore, the wearable transcranial electrical stimulation device of the present invention emerges as the times require, aiming to solve the above problems and provide users with a more comfortable, precise and effective transcranial electrical stimulation experience. Content of the Utility Model

[0007] (1) Technical Problems to be Solved

[0008] Aiming at the deficiencies of the prior art, the utility model provides a wearable transcranial electrical stimulation device, which solves the problems put forward in the above background technique.

[0009] (2) Technical Solutions

[0010] The utility model specifically adopts the following technical solutions to achieve the above purposes:

[0011] A wearable transcranial electrical stimulation device includes a horizontal hoop and a vertical hoop. An installation block is fixedly connected to the horizontal hoop. The vertical hoop is adjusted with the horizontal hoop by sliding within the installation block. One end of both the horizontal hoop and the vertical hoop is provided with a card slot. The horizontal hoop and the vertical hoop adjust a sliding rod through the card slot. A slideway is provided on the connecting rod of the horizontal hoop. A horizontal electrode plate is slidably connected within the slideway. At the same time, a connecting member is rotatably connected to the bottom of the connecting rod of the horizontal hoop. The connecting member is rotatably connected to a bracket. An auricle cover is rotatably connected to the bracket. A buffer sleeve is fixedly connected to one side of the auricle cover. The bottom of the connecting rod connected to the vertical hoop is rotatably connected to a rotating member, and a vertical electrode plate is rotatably connected through the rotating member. The bottom of the horizontal hoop is rotatably connected to a head cover.

[0012] Further, a wedge-shaped block is provided at the top of the rod, and the limiting rod falls off.

[0013] Further, the designed shapes of the horizontal hoop, the vertical hoop, and the rod are arc-shaped.

[0014] Further, positioning electrodes are provided in the horizontal electrode plate and the vertical electrode plate.

[0015] Further, the head cover is a silicone pad with holes on it, and the head cover is circular.

[0016] Further, the buffer sleeve is filled with buffer sponge.

[0017] Further, both the horizontal hoop and the vertical hoop are made of a medical-grade carbon fiber composite material as the skeleton.

[0018] Further, both the horizontal electrode plate and the vertical electrode plate are connected to an external power source and a control device through retractable wires to adjust the stimulation intensity and mode.

[0019] (III) Beneficial Effects

[0020] Compared with the prior art, the present utility model provides a wearable transcranial electrical stimulation device, which has the following beneficial effects:

[0021] In the present utility model, the size of the device can be adjusted through the horizontal hoop and the vertical hoop of the device. The rod can slide and rotate, and the position of the electrode plate can be accurately adjusted, which can adapt to the head circumferences, head shapes, and brain structure differences of different users, ensure good contact between the electrodes and the scalp, and achieve accurate and effective electrical stimulation.

[0022] In the present utility model, an arc-shaped design is adopted, the head cover is made of silicone material and has breathable holes, and the auricle cover has a buffer sleeve filled with sponge. These structural features work together to reduce the pressure on the head and ears, increase the air permeability, make the device comfortable and stable when worn, and help the user use it for a long time. Description of the Drawings

[0023] Figure 1 Schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of the present utility model Figure 1 ;

[0024] Figure 2 Schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of the present utility model Figure 2 ;

[0025] Figure 3 Schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of the present utility model Figure 3 ;

[0026] Figure 4 Schematic diagram of the connection structure of the vertical hoop, card slot and card rod of the present utility model;

[0027] Figure 5 Schematic diagram of the connection structure of the connecting piece, bracket, earcup and buffer sleeve of the present utility model.

[0028] In the figure: 1, horizontal hoop; 2, vertical hoop; 3, mounting block; 4, card slot; 5, card rod; 6, slideway; 7, horizontal electrode plate; 8, connecting piece; 9, bracket; 10, earcup; 11, buffer sleeve; 12, rotating piece; 13, vertical electrode plate; 14, headgear. Specific embodiments

[0029] Next, the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present utility model will be clearly and completely described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in the embodiments of the present utility model. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of the present utility model, rather than all the embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present utility model, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative efforts shall fall within the protection scope of the present utility model.

[0030] Embodiment

[0031] As Figures 1-5 shown, a wearable transcranial electrical stimulation device proposed in an embodiment of the present utility model includes a horizontal hoop 1 and a vertical hoop 2. An installation block 3 is fixedly connected to the horizontal hoop 1. The vertical hoop 2 is adjusted with the horizontal hoop 1 by sliding in the installation block 3. Card slots 4 are provided at one ends of the horizontal hoop 1 and the vertical hoop 2. The horizontal hoop 1 and the vertical hoop 2 adjust and slide the card rod 5 through the card slots 4. A slideway 6 is provided on the card rod 5 connected to the horizontal hoop 1. A horizontal electrode plate 7 is slidably connected inside the slideway 6. At the same time, a connecting piece 8 is rotatably connected to the bottom of the card rod 5 connected to the horizontal hoop 1. The connecting piece 8 is rotatably connected to a bracket 9. An earcup 10 is rotatably connected to the bracket 9. A buffer sleeve 11 is fixedly connected to one side of the earcup 10. The bottom of the card rod 5 connected to the vertical hoop 2 is rotatably connected to a rotating piece 12. The vertical electrode plate 13 is rotatably connected through the rotating piece 12. The bottom of the horizontal hoop 1 is rotatably connected to a headgear 14;

[0032] Structural features:

[0033] Horizontal hoop 1 and vertical hoop 2:

[0034] Arc design: It conforms to the natural shape of the human head, can evenly distribute pressure, reduce local pressure points, and improve the wearing comfort.

[0035] Mounting block 3 and sliding adjustment: The mounting block 3 provides a sliding track for the vertical hoop 2, enabling the vertical hoop 2 to slide freely within it. This sliding adjustment mechanism allows the device to adapt to heads of different sizes and shapes, increasing the versatility and scope of application of the device.

[0036] Card slot 4 and sliding rod 5: The cooperation of the card slot 4 and the sliding rod 5 can not only achieve length adjustment but also be fixed after being adjusted to the appropriate position, ensuring that the device will not loosen or change position during use.

[0037] Rod 5:

[0038] Wedge-shaped block design: The wedge-shaped block is located at the top of the rod 5. Its function is to prevent the rod 5 from being disengaged upward due to external forces or vibrations after the rod 5 is inserted into the card slot 4, thus ensuring the stability and reliability of the device structure.

[0039] Horizontal electrode plate 7:

[0040] Slideway 6 connection: The slideway 6 provides a sliding path for the horizontal electrode plate 7, enabling the horizontal electrode plate 7 to move left and right on the rod 5 connected to the horizontal hoop 1.

[0041] Precise positioning: This sliding design allows the position of the horizontal electrode plate 7 to be precisely adjusted according to the specific shape of the patient's head and the position to be stimulated, in order to achieve more targeted transcranial electrical stimulation therapy.

[0042] Connecting piece 8, bracket 9 and auricle cover 10:

[0043] Rotational connection: The rotational connection between the connecting piece 8 and the bottom of the rod 5, and the rotational connection between the bracket 9 and the connecting piece 8 endow the auricle cover 10 with multi-directional freedom of movement.

[0044] Buffer sleeve 11: The buffer sleeve 11 on one side of the auricle cover 10 is filled with buffer sponge inside, which can effectively reduce the pressure of the auricle cover 10 on the ear, while providing a certain buffering effect, reducing the discomfort during wearing, and increasing the fitting degree and stability between the device and the ear.

[0045] Vertical electrode plate 13:

[0046] Connection of the rotating member 12: By connecting the rotating member 12 to the bottom of the clamping rod 5, the vertical electrode plate 13 can be flexibly adjusted in angle and direction to adapt to the shapes of different patients' heads and the specific areas to be stimulated, ensuring the accuracy and effectiveness of the electrical stimulation.

[0047] Headgear 14:

[0048] Silicone material: Silicone has the characteristics of being soft, skin-friendly, non-toxic and odorless, and can make good contact with the head skin, reducing allergic and irritation reactions.

[0049] Circular design: It comprehensively covers the head, providing uniform support and protection.

[0050] Holes: They help with ventilation, reduce the stuffy feeling caused by long-term wearing, and improve the comfort of the patient.

[0051] Functions: Fixing and supporting:

[0052] Components such as the horizontal hoop 1, vertical hoop 2, and clamping rod 5 work together to form a stable frame structure that tightly surrounds the head, ensuring that the device does not shake or shift during use.

[0053] This stable fixing effect is crucial for ensuring stable contact between the electrode plate and the head skin, thereby ensuring that the effect of the electrical stimulation can be accurately transmitted to the target area.

[0054] Precise stimulation positioning:

[0055] The adjustable design of the horizontal electrode plate 7 and the vertical electrode plate 13 enables them to accurately align with the brain areas to be stimulated.

[0056] By continuously adjusting the position, angle, and distance of the electrode plate, the effect of the electrical stimulation can be optimized to the greatest extent, improving the accuracy and pertinence of the treatment.

[0057] Improving wearing comfort:

[0058] The buffer sleeve 11 of the auricle cover 10, the silicone headgear 14, and the flexible rotational connection of each component are all aimed at reducing the pressure and friction of the device on the head and ears.

[0059] A long-term comfortable wearing experience helps the patient better accept the treatment. Especially for patients who need to use this device for a long time, the improvement of comfort can increase their compliance and treatment effect.

[0060] Function: Transcranial electrical stimulation treatment:

[0061] Transmit weak currents to specific areas of the brain, regulate the excitability and inhibitory properties of neurons, and thus affect nerve activities and the release of neurotransmitters.

[0062] It is used to treat various neurological diseases, such as depression, anxiety, sleep disorders, chronic pain, etc., and relieve symptoms and improve the condition by changing the neural activity pattern of the brain.

[0063] It may also have a certain promoting effect on aspects such as cognitive dysfunction and rehabilitation after brain injury, helping patients recover or improve cognitive abilities, motor functions, etc.

[0064] Personalized adjustment:

[0065] The retractable wire connects the external power supply and the control device, enabling the therapist or the patient to adjust parameters such as the intensity, frequency, and pulse width of the stimulation in real time according to individual differences and the progress of the treatment.

[0066] This personalized adjustment function can better meet the needs of different patients and improve the effectiveness and safety of the treatment.

[0067] The working principle is as follows:

[0068] Transcranial electrical stimulation is based on electrophysiological principles. By placing electrodes at specific positions on the head, weak direct current or alternating current is applied to regulate the excitability of the cerebral cortex.

[0069] When the external power supply is turned on, the current is transmitted through the retractable wire to the horizontal electrode plate 7 and the vertical electrode plate 13 respectively. These electrode plates are in contact with the head skin, and the current can penetrate the skull and enter the brain tissue.

[0070] Specifically, parameters such as the intensity, frequency, and pulse width of the current can be adjusted through the external control device. Appropriate current stimulation can change the potential of the neuron cell membrane and affect the firing frequency and synchrony of neurons.

[0071] For example, when treating depression, a specific current pattern may enhance the neural activity in the areas related to mood regulation in the brain, thereby improving the patient's mood state.

[0072] By adjusting the positions and angles of the horizontal hoop 1, the vertical hoop 2, the sliding rod 5, the horizontal electrode plate 7, and the vertical electrode plate 13, it can ensure that the current acts accurately on the predetermined brain area and achieve precise treatment effects.

[0073] At the same time, the design of components such as the buffer sleeve 11 and the silicone headgear 14 in the device helps to maintain stable contact between the electrodes and the skin while ensuring wearing comfort, thereby stabilizing the current transmission and ensuring the continuity and effectiveness of the treatment.

[0074] Such as Figure 4As shown, in some embodiments, a wedge-shaped block is provided at the top of the clamping rod 5 to limit the detachment of the limiting clamping rod 5; the wedge-shaped block is characterized by being thicker at one end and thinner at the other end. When the clamping rod 5 is inserted into the corresponding card slot 4 or hole, the thicker end will form a block.

[0075] In actual use, if an upward pulling force or other external force that may cause the clamping rod 5 to come out is applied, the thicker part of the wedge-shaped block will catch the edge of the card slot 4 or hole, preventing the clamping rod 5 from moving upward further, thus effectively restricting the detachment of the clamping rod 5; this design is simple and effective, increasing the stability and reliability of the entire device, ensuring that during use, the clamping rod 5 will not fall off due to unexpected situations, and guaranteeing that the transcranial electrical stimulation device can work normally and safely.

[0076] As Figure 2 shown, in some embodiments, the design shapes of the horizontal hoop 1, the vertical hoop 2, and the clamping rod 5 are arc-shaped; firstly, the arc shape matches the natural contour of the human head. The human head is not a regular geometric shape but has a certain curvature and curve. The arc-shaped hoops and the clamping rod 5 can better fit the surface of the head, reducing the sense of abruptness and discomfort during wearing and increasing the wearing comfort.

[0077] Secondly, this arc-shaped design can distribute the pressure more evenly. When the device is fixed on the head, the arc-shaped structure can disperse the pressure over a larger area, avoiding excessive local pressure, thereby reducing the risk of compression and damage to the head.

[0078] As Figure 2 shown, in some embodiments, positioning electrodes are provided in the horizontal electrode plate 7 and the vertical electrode plate 13. The main purpose of the positioning electrodes is to more precisely determine the contact points between the electrode plates and specific positions on the head. Through these positioning electrodes, it can be ensured that the current can be accurately delivered to the expected brain area, thereby improving the targeting and effectiveness of the electrical stimulation treatment. In actual applications, the positioning electrodes will be combined with specific imaging techniques, such as magnetic resonance imaging or computed tomography, to more precisely plan the placement positions of the electrodes before treatment.

[0079] As Figure 3 shown, in some embodiments, the headgear 14 is a silicone pad with holes provided on it. The headgear 14 is circular, and the holes are not drawn; the silicone pad material has the advantages of being soft, skin-friendly, non-toxic, and wear-resistant. Its soft characteristic enables the headgear 14 to provide a comfortable touch when contacting the head, reducing the pressure and friction on the head, and it is not easy to cause discomfort even after long-term wearing. The skin-friendly and non-toxic properties reduce the risk of skin allergy or irritation.

[0080] The hood 14 is designed to be circular, capable of comprehensively covering the head, providing relatively uniform support and protection. This shape has no sharp corners, has a higher degree of fit with the head, and is not likely to cause local pressure concentration on the head.

[0081] The holes provided above have the following functions: The holes contribute to ventilation, increasing the exchange of air between the head and the outside world, avoiding stuffiness and sweating on the head caused by long-term wearing, and improving the wearing comfort. On the other hand, in some cases, the holes may also be used to pass through other auxiliary devices or wires to achieve more functions or connect to external devices.

[0082] As Figure 5 shown, in some embodiments, the buffer sleeve 11 is filled with buffer sponge; the buffer sponge has good elasticity and softness. When the earcup 10 contacts the ear, the buffer sponge can absorb and disperse the pressure, reducing the direct pressure on the ear. This enables the wearer not to feel overly tight or painful in the ear when using the transcranial electrical stimulation device, thus improving the wearing comfort.

[0083] In this embodiment, both the horizontal hoop 1 and the vertical hoop 2 are made of a medical-grade carbon fiber composite material as the skeleton; the medical-grade carbon fiber composite material has excellent strength and stiffness. This means that while providing stable support for the head, they can withstand various external forces that may occur during use and are not easily deformed or damaged. For example, when the patient's head suddenly moves or is accidentally bumped, this material can maintain the structural integrity of the device and ensure the normal progress of treatment.

[0084] The feature that it is extremely light in weight is also very important. Compared with traditional metal materials, the carbon fiber composite material can greatly reduce the overall weight of the device, reduce the burden on the wearer's head, and increase the wearing comfort and tolerance. Especially for patients who need to wear this device for a long time, reducing the weight can significantly improve their compliance.

[0085] In addition, the carbon fiber composite material also has good corrosion resistance and biocompatibility. During the process of contacting the human body, it will not cause allergic reactions or other adverse biological reactions, reducing the risk of infection and complications. At the same time, its corrosion resistance ensures the stable performance of the device under long-term use and different environmental conditions.

[0086] In this embodiment, both the horizontal electrode plate 7 and the vertical electrode plate 13 are connected to an external power source and a control device through retractable wires to adjust the stimulation intensity and mode; the retractable wires provide flexibility and convenience. During use, the wearer's head may have a certain range of movement, and the retractable wires can adapt to this movement, preventing the wires from being damaged due to excessive stretching or entanglement. For example, when the wearer turns their head, bends down or looks up, the retractable wires can freely extend and contract without affecting normal activities.

[0087] Connecting to the external power source ensures that the electrode plates can obtain a stable power supply to generate continuous and effective electrical stimulation. The external power source can provide sufficient energy to ensure the intensity and stability of the stimulation.

[0088] By connecting to the control device, the stimulation intensity and mode can be conveniently adjusted. Different patients may require different intensities and modes of electrical stimulation to achieve the best treatment effect. The control device can achieve precise parameter adjustment, such as increasing or decreasing the current intensity, changing the stimulation frequency and pulse width, etc.

[0089] Finally, it should be noted that the above are only the preferred embodiments of the present invention and are not used to limit the present invention. Although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art can still modify the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments or perform equivalent replacements for some of the technical features. Any modifications, equivalent replacements, improvements, etc. made within the spirit and principle of the present invention shall be included within the protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A wearable transcranial electrical stimulation device, comprising a transverse hoop (1) and a vertical hoop (2), characterized in that: An installation block (3) is fixedly connected to the horizontal hoop (1). The vertical hoop (2) is adjusted with the horizontal hoop (1) by sliding within the installation block (3). A clamping groove (4) is provided at one end of both the horizontal hoop (1) and the vertical hoop (2). The horizontal hoop (1) and the vertical hoop (2) adjust and slide a clamping rod (5) through the clamping groove (4). A slideway (6) is provided on the clamping rod (5) connected to the horizontal hoop (1). A horizontal electrode plate (7) is slidably connected inside the slideway (6). At the same time, a connecting piece (8) is rotatably connected to the bottom of the clamping rod (5) connected to the horizontal hoop (1). The connecting piece (8) is rotatably connected to a bracket (9). An auricle cover (10) is rotatably connected to the bracket (9). A buffer sleeve (11) is fixedly connected to one side of the auricle cover (10). A rotating piece (12) is rotatably connected to the bottom of the clamping rod (5) connected to the vertical hoop (2). A vertical electrode plate (13) is rotatably connected through the rotating piece (12). A head cover (14) is rotatably connected to the bottom of the horizontal hoop (1).

2. The wearable transcranial electrical stimulation device according to claim 1, wherein: A wedge-shaped block is provided at the top of the clamping rod (5) to limit the clamping rod (5) from falling off.

3. The wearable transcranial electrical stimulation device according to claim 2, wherein: The designed shapes of the horizontal hoop (1), the vertical hoop (2), and the clamping rod (5) are arc-shaped.

4. A wearable transcranial electrical stimulation device according to claim 1, characterized in that: Positioning electrodes are provided in the horizontal electrode plate (7) and the vertical electrode plate (13).

5. A wearable transcranial electrical stimulation device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The head cover (14) is a silicone pad with holes provided thereon, and the head cover (14) is circular.

6. The wearable transcranial electrical stimulation device according to claim 1, wherein: The buffer sleeve (11) is filled with buffer sponge.

7. The wearable transcranial electrical stimulation device according to claim 1, wherein: Both the horizontal hoop (1) and the vertical hoop (2) are made with a medical-grade carbon fiber composite material as the skeleton.

8. The wearable transcranial electrical stimulation device according to claim 1, wherein: Both the horizontal electrode plate (7) and the vertical electrode plate (13) are connected to an external power source and a control device through retractable wires to adjust the stimulation intensity and mode.

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