A watchband for a wrist nerve stimulator

Abstract

The utility model relates to a watchband for wrist nerve stimulator, including watchband body, watchband body is by soft silica gel integrated injection molding, and the inboard of watchband body is provided with two sets of stimulating electrode group, and each stimulating electrode group includes a stimulating electrode and two reference electrodes respectively symmetrically arranged at the both sides of stimulating electrode. Stimulating electrode corresponds median nerve, and reference electrode corresponds radial nerve. Stimulating electrode and reference electrode protrude from the surface of watchband body, and the surface of stimulating electrode and reference electrode is uniformly provided with a plurality of convex points. Its through modularization can replace watchband and conductive silica gel electrode integration design, combines half ellipse concave-convex electrode structure and surface convex point layout, significantly improves the adhesion and contact area of electrode and skin. It adopts two sets of electrodes to stimulate median nerve and radial nerve alternately, expands the stimulation coverage range and disperses the current density, and cooperates with the press type magnetic attraction buckle and spring contact structure, realizes the quick disassembly and replacement of watchband and stable electrical connection.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of medical device technology, and in particular to a watch strap for a wrist nerve stimulator, as an accessory for a wearable nerve electrical stimulator. Background Technology

[0002] Electrical stimulation technology, as an important neuromodulation and physical therapy method, has developed rapidly in recent years and is increasingly being applied to wearable devices. Traditional electrical stimulation devices (such as transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) devices) typically consist of a main unit connected to multiple electrode patches via wires, transmitting electrical pulses to the skin surface to achieve functions such as analgesia, muscle training, or neuromodulation. The electrodes of these devices generally use patches coated with conductive gel, which adhere to the skin to reduce contact resistance and transmit current. With the development of electronic and materials technologies, electrical stimulation devices have gradually evolved from bulky wired devices to miniaturized and portable designs, giving rise to wearable electrical stimulation devices. For example, some wristband-style electrical stimulation products have appeared on the market, integrating the electrical stimulation module into a watchband similar to a watch, making it convenient for users to wear daily for continuous physical therapy or health maintenance. Typical applications include wrist-worn TENS devices for pain relief, electrical stimulation wristbands for preventing motion sickness, and wrist-type nerve stimulation devices for reducing tremors. By placing electrodes on the inside of the wristband, these devices can electrically stimulate specific nerves in the wrist area to achieve corresponding therapeutic effects. These technological advancements have significantly improved the user experience of electrical stimulation devices and broadened their application scenarios in clinical and home care.

[0003] Despite this, current electrical stimulation devices still face several technical limitations and problems in use. One common issue is poor contact between the electrodes and the skin. Since electrodes are typically fixed to the skin surface by adhesive or binding, improper fixation or prolonged use can cause them to loosen or partially detach from the skin, resulting in insufficient contact. This can lead to discomfort such as stinging or burning during stimulation, a phenomenon clinically known as the "edge biting" effect. Furthermore, the adhesive on the electrode patches may dry out or age with repeated use, also preventing a tight fit between the electrodes and the skin. This not only reduces the effectiveness of electrical stimulation but can also cause side effects such as skin irritation or minor burns. Another concern is wearing comfort. Traditional electrical stimulation electrodes are mostly patch-type, which can easily cause skin redness or contact dermatitis with prolonged use. Additionally, some devices are bulky or use wired connections, creating a feeling of constriction and affecting the user's daily activities. To improve wearing comfort, researchers are exploring the use of flexible materials and novel electrode structures to replace traditional rigid electrodes. For example, some studies have used conductive ink printing and conductive yarn to create flexible electrical stimulation electrodes; others have drawn inspiration from bionics to design stretchable, snake-skin-like electrodes, introducing Kirigami structures to improve electrode fit and biocompatibility. These research findings indicate that improving electrode materials and structural design can alleviate problems such as poor electrode contact and discomfort to some extent, but further innovation and practice are still needed to apply these technologies in actual products.

[0004] Currently, some wristband-style electrical stimulation devices have appeared on the market, used to fix electrodes to the wrist and other areas to achieve transcutaneous nerve stimulation. However, these wristband-type electrical stimulation products generally have several drawbacks, mainly in the following aspects: 1. Insecure Electrode Fixation: Many existing wristband electrical stimulation devices use elastic webbing, buckles, or simple adhesive pads to secure the electrodes. For example, some products attach electrode pads to the inside of the watchband and use Velcro to adjust the tightness of the wrist. While Velcro and similar methods are convenient, the electrodes may still shift or fall off during user activity or when sweating, leading to interrupted stimulation or inconsistent stimulation intensity. This insecure fixation not only affects the treatment effect but may also cause stinging sensations due to poor contact (such as the aforementioned "edge biting" effect), reducing user confidence in the device.

[0005] 2. Limited Stimulation Range: Existing electrical stimulation watchbands typically only place a pair of electrodes in a localized area of ​​the wrist, resulting in limited coverage of nerves around the wrist. For example, some devices only place electrodes on the inner side of the wrist to stimulate the median nerve, neglecting the distribution areas of the radial or ulnar nerves. Such a design may not fully realize the therapeutic effects of electrical stimulation, requiring users to manually adjust the watchband position to stimulate different nerves, which is inconvenient. Overly concentrated stimulation can also lead to excessively high local current density, causing discomfort in that area while surrounding areas receive ineffective stimulation.

[0006] 3. Difficulty in Electrode Replacement and Maintenance: Electrodes in electrical stimulation watchbands are typically consumables, and their performance deteriorates with repeated use (e.g., conductive gel dries out, conductive materials age). However, in many products, the electrodes are fixedly mounted on the watchband, and the watchband is locked to the watch head, making it difficult for users to replace or maintain them themselves. In some designs, the electrodes and wires are integrated into the watchband, often requiring the replacement of the entire device when a problem occurs, resulting in waste. Even in products designed with replaceable electrode pads, disassembly may require tools, a cumbersome process. Furthermore, the electrodes and watchband are in prolonged contact with the skin, and the difficulty in cleaning them can lead to hygiene issues. How to easily replace electrode components and clean the watchband to ensure the device's longevity is a pain point that current technology has not yet fully addressed.

[0007] 4. Poor Wearing Comfort and Adaptability: Some wristband electrical stimulation products still fall short in terms of wearing comfort. For example, if the strap material is too stiff or has poor breathability, prolonged wear can cause pressure discomfort or a stuffy feeling on the skin; the electrode pads, attached to uneven wrist skin, lack elastic cushioning, leading to uneven pressure distribution. Some devices integrate stimulation circuits, batteries, and other rigid components directly into the strap, increasing the burden on the wrist. If the strap size has a limited adjustment range, it may be difficult to accommodate different wrist sizes, potentially resulting in a strap that is too tight or too loose. Although some products have attempted improvements in recent years, overall, existing technology still has room for improvement in terms of comfort and adaptability.

[0008] In summary, existing electrical stimulation watchbands have significant shortcomings in terms of electrode fixation, stimulation range, electrode replacement and maintenance, and wearing comfort, failing to fully meet user needs. These issues limit the wider and more efficient application of electrical stimulation technology, necessitating solutions through new structural designs and technological approaches. Utility Model Content

[0009] To address the shortcomings of existing technologies, the purpose of this invention is to provide a wristband for a wrist nerve stimulator, which aims to enhance the close fit between the electrodes and the skin, optimize wearing comfort, expand the coverage of electrical stimulation, improve stimulation efficiency, and provide a simple way to replace the wristband and electrode components, thereby improving the deficiencies of existing technologies.

[0010] The above-mentioned utility model objective is achieved through the following technical solution: A wristband for a wrist nerve stimulator includes a wristband body, which is integrally injection molded from soft silicone. Two sets of stimulation electrode groups are disposed on the inner side of the wristband body. Each set of stimulation electrode groups includes a stimulation electrode and two reference electrodes symmetrically disposed on both sides of the stimulation electrode.

[0011] As a further technical solution of this utility model: the stimulation electrode corresponds to the median nerve, and the reference electrode corresponds to the radial nerve.

[0012] As a further technical solution of this utility model: the stimulation electrode and the reference electrode protrude from the surface of the watch strap body, and a plurality of protrusions are uniformly arranged on the surface of the stimulation electrode and the reference electrode.

[0013] As a further technical solution of this utility model: the two sides of the stimulation electrode protrude in a semi-elliptical shape in the direction of its width, and the side of the reference electrode close to the stimulation electrode is concave in a semi-elliptical shape.

[0014] As a further technical solution of this utility model: the electrode length of the stimulation electrode group is 22mm, and the electrode spacing between two adjacent stimulation electrode groups is 20mm or 12mm.

[0015] As a further technical solution of this utility model: a watch frame is provided on the watch strap body, and a watch head is detachably and fixedly connected inside the watch frame, and the watch head has a built-in spring contact. A flexible circuit board is provided inside the frame. The flexible circuit board is electrically connected to the stimulation electrode group. When the meter head is installed inside the frame, the spring contact is aligned and in contact with the flexible circuit board.

[0016] As a further technical solution of this utility model: a first slot is provided at one end of the watch strap body, and a second slot is provided at the other end. The two ends of the watch strap body are connected by the first slot and the second slot in a snap-fit ​​manner.

[0017] In summary, this utility model has at least one of the following beneficial technical effects: This utility model discloses a wristband for a wrist nerve stimulator. Its modular, replaceable wristband and conductive silicone electrodes are integrated into a single design. Combined with a semi-elliptical concave-convex electrode structure and surface bump layout, this significantly improves the adhesion and contact area between the electrodes and the skin, reducing edge biting effects. It employs dual sets of electrodes to alternately stimulate the median and radial nerves, expanding the stimulation coverage and dispersing the current density. A press-type magnetic clasp and spring contact structure allow for quick wristband replacement and stable electrical connection. This improves stimulation efficiency while reducing electrode maintenance costs by over 70%, and is suitable for diverse user needs with nerve spacing ranging from 24-60mm, balancing wearing comfort with long-term hygiene and safety. Attached Figure Description

[0018] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of this utility model.

[0019] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of the stimulation electrode assembly of this utility model.

[0020] Figure 3 This is a perspective view of the stimulation electrode assembly for this utility model.

[0021] Reference numerals: 1. Watchband body; 2. Stimulating electrode assembly; 21. Stimulating electrode; 211. First stimulating electrode; 212. Second stimulating electrode; 22. Reference electrode; 221. First left reference electrode; 222. First right reference electrode; 223. Second left reference electrode; 224. Second right reference electrode; 3. Watch frame; 31. Flexible circuit board; 4. First slot; 5. Second slot. Detailed Implementation

[0022] The technical solutions in the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, and not all embodiments. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of this application without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0023] In the description of this application, it should be noted that the terms "upper," "lower," "inner," "outer," "top / bottom," etc., indicating the orientation or positional relationship are based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, and are only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this application. Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0024] In the description of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installed," "equipped with," "sleeved / connected," "connected," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, "connection" can be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; it can be a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; it can be a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; it can be a connection within two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application based on the specific circumstances. Example

[0025] Reference Figures 1-3 This utility model discloses a watchband for a wrist nerve stimulator, comprising a watchband body 1, which is integrally injection molded from soft silicone. (See reference...) Figure 2 The inner side of the watchband body 1 is provided with two sets of stimulation electrode groups 2. Each set of stimulation electrode groups 2 includes one stimulation electrode 21 and two reference electrodes 22 symmetrically arranged on both sides of the stimulation electrode 21. The stimulation electrode 21 corresponds to the median nerve, and the reference electrode 22 corresponds to the radial nerve. The stimulation electrode groups 2 are arranged on the inner side of the watchband body 1 and are integrally molded with the watchband body 1 using conductive silicone.

[0026] Reference Figure 3 The electrodes are divided into two groups: the first group of electrodes (first left reference electrode 221, first right reference electrode 222, second stimulation electrode 212) and the second group of electrodes (first stimulation electrode 211, second left reference electrode 223, second right reference electrode 224), which are arranged on the watch band. The two groups of electrodes correspond to the median nerve and the radial nerve, respectively.

[0027] Reference Figure 3 The first set of electrodes (first left reference electrode 221, first right reference electrode 222, and second stimulating electrode 212) has the second stimulating electrode 212 placed on the median nerve, and the first left reference electrode 221 and the first right reference electrode 222 placed on the radial nerve. During stimulation, they form a stimulation circuit through neural connections in the brain. The second set of electrodes (first stimulating electrode 211, second left reference electrode 223, and second right reference electrode 224) has the first stimulating electrode 211 placed on the radial nerve, and the second left reference electrode 223 and the second right reference electrode 224 placed on the median nerve. During stimulation, they form a stimulation circuit through neural connections in the brain.

[0028] In this embodiment, the electrode material is made of conductive silicone to improve wearing comfort; and the electrode as a whole protrudes slightly from the surface of the strap, with a large number of bumps on the surface, which increases the contact area with the skin when wearing and improves the stimulation efficiency.

[0029] The stimulating electrode 21 and the reference electrode 22 protrude from the surface of the watchband body 1, and several raised dots are evenly distributed on the surfaces of the stimulating electrode 21 and the reference electrode 22. The two sides of the stimulating electrode 21 protrude in a semi-elliptical shape along its width, while the side of the reference electrode 22 closest to the stimulating electrode 21 is semi-elliptical and concave. The electrode shape is designed according to the characteristics of the watchband when bent, with the stimulating electrode 21 protruding in a semi-elliptical shape along its width and the reference electrode 22 concave in a semi-elliptical shape. This increases the contact area of ​​the stimulating electrode 21, disperses the reference electrode 22, and reduces discomfort for the patient when receiving stimulation. At the same time, the elliptical treatment of the protruding and concave parts not only increases the aesthetics of the product but also ensures maximum adhesion between the electrode and the skin when bent.

[0030] Reference Figure 2 The electrode length of stimulation electrode group 2 is 22mm, and the electrode spacing between two adjacent stimulation electrode groups 2 is 20mm or 12mm. In this embodiment, the electrode spacing between two adjacent stimulation electrode groups 2 is preferably 20mm. By measuring the superficial nerve spacing of wristbands of people of different ages, heights, and weights, the electrode length was finally set to 22mm, and the electrode width can be set according to the width of the watchband; the electrode spacing is 20mm to balance the skin stimulation sensation and the interference between electrodes. The widened area of ​​stimulation electrode 21 can accommodate people with nerve spacing between 24mm and 60mm, which covers the nerve spacing of most people, while the overall length of the electrode can expand the applicable range of nerve spacing to 20mm-64mm, which can take care of another group of people with thicker or thinner wrists.

[0031] Reference Figure 1 The watchband body 1 has a watch frame 3, and a watch head is detachably and fixedly connected inside the watch frame 3. The watch head has a built-in spring contact. A flexible circuit board 31 is provided inside the watch frame 3, and the flexible circuit board 31 is electrically connected to the stimulation electrode assembly 2. When the watch head is installed inside the watch frame 3, the spring contact and the flexible circuit board 31 are aligned and in contact. In this embodiment, a snap-fit ​​structure is provided at the watch frame 3 to facilitate the installation or removal of the replaceable watch head. The snap-fit ​​structure adopts a press-lock type. After the watchband body 1 and the watch head are aligned, a light press will lock them; the reverse operation will unlock and remove them, facilitating quick replacement of the electrode module. A clearance area is provided at the bottom of the watch frame 3 to accommodate the spring contact assembly or POGO PIN connector, so that it automatically contacts and establishes an electrical connection when the watch head and the watchband body 1 are aligned.

[0032] The watch band body 1 contains a flexible circuit board 31 (FPC) with contact pads for each group of electrodes; spring contacts (or POGO PINs) are provided on the watch head side, and alignment contact is achieved through an elastic structure; when the watch head buckle is installed in place, the spring contacts automatically press against the FPC contacts to ensure a stable signal and power path.

[0033] In this embodiment, conductive silicone is used as the electrode material, which has a certain degree of softness and elasticity and excellent conductivity, with a service life of approximately 4 to 6 months. When the electrode ages or its conductivity decreases, only the watchband module needs to be replaced, without replacing the entire watch, thus reducing user costs. The modular electrode design, with magnets embedded in the silicone watchband and stimulation electrode 21, allows users to easily replace the conductive silicone electrodes, further reducing operating costs.

[0034] One end of the watch strap body 1 has a first slot 4, and the other end has a second slot 5. The two ends of the watch strap body 1 are connected by a snap-fit ​​between the first slot 4 and the second slot 5. When worn, the first slot 4 is engaged in the second slot 5 to secure the watch strap body 1. This makes disassembly and removal convenient and improves practicality.

[0035] In actual use, the elastic cord and Velcro make the stimulator more comfortable to wear, and the electrodes fit more tightly to the skin, maintaining high stimulation efficiency at all times. With the unique electrode length and width design, you only need to keep the stimulator in the center of the back of the wrist to ensure that the nerve position is aligned. The stimulation electrode 21 can be well adapted to people whose nerve position is 24mm-60mm, that is, most adults.

[0036] When the electrodes are aging or worn out, turn off the device and remove the strap. Pinch the edge of the electrode housing with your fingers and apply slight force to overcome the magnetic attraction or buckle constraint, and remove the old electrode assembly. When cleaning and maintenance are required, the strap can be rinsed with a neutral detergent and dried after the electrodes are removed. Ensure that the magnetic terminals are dry to avoid oxidation. Proper maintenance can effectively extend the service life of the device.

[0037] This utility model has the following technical effects: Modular and replaceable, low maintenance cost: When the electrodes age, the watch strap can be replaced directly instead of the entire device, eliminating the need for factory repair, significantly reducing maintenance costs and extending the device's lifespan.

[0038] Secure contact: The special curved electrodes fit snugly against the wrist, and the flexible strap adjustment and magnetic clasp effectively prevent the electrodes from slipping or falling off, ensuring a stable stimulation effect.

[0039] High comfort: By adjusting the layout and size of the electrodes and widening the nerve range, it can meet the treatment needs of different groups of people, reduce the risk of misalignment, improve the efficiency of treatment or physical therapy, and is suitable for long-term wear and maintain a high level of comfort.

[0040] Multiple electrode stimulation: By stimulating the median and radial nerves through electrode layout (first group of electrodes and second group of electrodes), the effect of rehabilitation training or medical monitoring can be improved and the stimulation efficiency can be increased.

[0041] The implementation principle of this utility model is as follows: This utility model discloses a wristband for a wrist nerve stimulator. Through a modular, replaceable wristband integrated with conductive silicone electrodes, combined with a semi-elliptical concave-convex electrode structure and surface protrusion layout, it significantly improves the adhesion and contact area between the electrodes and the skin, reducing edge biting effects. It employs dual sets of electrodes to alternately stimulate the median and radial nerves, expanding the stimulation coverage and dispersing the current density. Combined with a press-type magnetic clasp and spring contact structure, it enables quick wristband replacement and stable electrical connection. While improving stimulation efficiency, it reduces electrode maintenance costs by more than 70%, and is suitable for diverse user needs with nerve spacing of 24-60mm, balancing wearing comfort and long-term hygiene and safety.

[0042] The embodiments described herein are preferred embodiments of this utility model and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of this utility model. Therefore, all equivalent changes made to the structure, shape, and principle of this utility model should be included within the scope of protection of this utility model.

Claims

1. A watchband for a wrist nerve stimulator, comprising a watchband body (1) integrally injection molded from soft silicone, characterized in that, The inner side of the watch strap body (1) is provided with two sets of stimulation electrode groups (2). Each set of stimulation electrode groups (2) includes a stimulation electrode (21) and two reference electrodes (22) respectively symmetrically arranged on both sides of the stimulation electrode (21).

2. A watchband for a wrist nerve stimulator according to claim 1, wherein, The stimulating electrode (21) corresponds to the median nerve, and the reference electrode (22) corresponds to the radial nerve.

3. The watchband for a wrist nerve stimulator of claim 1, wherein, The stimulation electrode (21) and the reference electrode (22) protrude from the surface of the watch strap body (1), and a plurality of protrusions are uniformly arranged on the surface of the stimulation electrode (21) and the reference electrode (22).

4. The watchband for a wrist nerve stimulator of claim 1, wherein, The stimulation electrode (21) protrudes in a semi-elliptical shape on both sides in its width direction, and the reference electrode (22) is concave in a semi-elliptical shape on the side close to the stimulation electrode (21).

5. The watchband for a wrist nerve stimulator of claim 1, wherein, The electrode length of the stimulation electrode group (2) is 22 mm, and the electrode spacing between two adjacent stimulation electrode groups (2) is 20 mm or 12 mm.

6. The watchband for a wrist nerve stimulator of claim 1, wherein, The watch strap body (1) is provided with a watch frame (3), and a watch head is detachably and fixedly connected inside the watch frame (3). The watch head has a built-in spring contact. A flexible circuit board (31) is provided inside the frame (3). The flexible circuit board (31) is electrically connected to the stimulation electrode group (2). When the meter head is installed inside the frame (3), the spring contact is aligned and in contact with the flexible circuit board (31).

7. The watchband for a wrist nerve stimulator of claim 1, wherein, The watch strap body (1) has a first slot (4) at one end and a second slot (5) at the other end. The two ends of the watch strap body (1) are connected to the second slot (5) by the first slot (4) and the second slot (5) in a snap-fit ​​manner.

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