A high-density flexible electromyography electrode

Abstract

This invention provides a high-density flexible electromyography electrode, relating to the field of bioelectric detection technology, comprising an electrode substrate, release paper, and a protective film. The electrode substrate has a first surface and a second surface. An adhesive layer is disposed on the first surface of the electrode substrate, and a circuit layer is disposed on the second surface of the electrode substrate. The circuit layer includes multiple circuits and multiple electrode detection points corresponding to the circuits. A detection hole is disposed at each electrode detection point, and the detection hole penetrates the electrode substrate and the adhesive layer. A conductive gel is disposed within the detection hole, and the conductive gel is in contact with the electrode detection point. Release paper covers the adhesive layer, and a protective film covers the circuit layer and the electrode detection points. This invention has good adhesion, good protection of the signal acquisition performance of the electrode layer, and is simple and convenient to use.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of bioelectric detection technology, specifically to a high-density flexible electromyography electrode. Background Technology

[0002] The human body generates various electrophysiological signals during physiological activities, such as electrocardiograms (ECG), electromyograms (EMG), and electroencephalograms (EEGs). These signals are of great significance for disease diagnosis, rehabilitation assessment, and movement analysis. Among them, surface electromyography (SEMG) signal acquisition is widely used in clinical medicine and scientific research due to its non-invasiveness and convenience. SEMG signal detection technology, as an important physiological signal detection method, can reflect the contraction state and functional activity of muscles in real time and dynamically, providing important technical support for medical diagnosis, rehabilitation training, and human-computer interaction.

[0003] However, existing surface electromyography (EMG) electrodes still face many technical challenges in practical applications. Traditional commercial gel patch electrodes are prone to falling off due to sweat during use, affecting the stability of signal acquisition. Although high-density electrodes based on non-woven fabrics have improved spatial resolution, their high rigidity and limited stretchability make them difficult to adapt to human muscle deformation and joint movement, and they require the application of conductive paste, increasing operational complexity. Some flexible and stretchable film electrodes mainly rely on intermolecular forces to achieve adhesion to the skin, but their adhesion strength is relatively weak, and they are prone to relative displacement during movement, leading to signal distortion.

[0004] The prior art CN117158983A discloses a flexible array electromyography electrode, which improves the stretchability and interfacial impedance characteristics of the electrode to a certain extent by sequentially stacking a flexible electrode layer and a flexible insulating layer on a flexible substrate and covering the electrode contact surface with a hydrogel cover sheet. However, this solution uses hydrogel as an adhesive layer, which is prone to detachment due to sweat during use, resulting in insufficient adhesion. Moreover, the simple stacking of the electrode layer with other functional layers does not provide adequate protection for the electrode layer. During electrode fabrication, transportation, storage, and use, the layers are easily affected by external impacts, impacting the electrical performance of the conductive layer. In addition, this solution is relatively complex to operate in actual use, which is not conducive to rapid deployment in clinical applications. Utility Model Content

[0005] The purpose of this invention is to provide a high-density flexible electromyography electrode that has good adhesion, good protection of the signal acquisition performance of the electrode layer, and is simple and convenient to use.

[0006] To achieve the above objectives, this utility model is implemented through the following technical solution: a high-density flexible electromyography electrode, comprising an electrode substrate, release paper, and a protective film; The electrode substrate has a first surface and a second surface. An adhesive layer is disposed on the first surface of the electrode substrate, and a circuit layer is disposed on the second surface of the electrode substrate. The circuit layer includes multiple circuits and multiple electrode detection points corresponding to the circuits. A detection hole is disposed at each electrode detection point. The detection hole penetrates the electrode substrate and the adhesive layer. A conductive gel is disposed inside the detection hole and is in contact with the electrode detection point. Release paper is covered on the adhesive layer, and a protective film is covered on the circuit layer.

[0007] Furthermore, the electrode substrate is a flexible, stretchable polymer film.

[0008] Further: The electrode substrate is selected from one of polyethylene terephthalate, polycarbonate, polydimethylsiloxane, and amorphous indium gallium zinc oxide.

[0009] Furthermore, the circuit layer is formed of conductive ink, which is selected from one of carbon-based conductive ink, copper-based conductive ink, highly conductive graphene ink, and stretchable silver conductor ink.

[0010] Furthermore, the conductive gel is selected from one of the following: photocurable biomass-based dual-network conductive hydrogel, CNF / PANI-PB hydrogel, UV-assisted curing gel, and NaCl-containing organic hydrogel.

[0011] Furthermore, the size of the detection hole is smaller than the size of the electrode detection point.

[0012] Furthermore, it also includes an insulating layer disposed between the plane of the circuit layer and the protective film.

[0013] Furthermore, a hard plastic pad is provided on one side of the electromyographic electrode.

[0014] Furthermore, the multiple electrode detection points are distributed in an array.

[0015] Furthermore, the spacing between adjacent electrode detection points ranges from 3mm to 10mm.

[0016] Compared with the prior art, the present invention has the following advantages: First, this device employs an independent adhesive layer, solving the problem of electrodes easily detaching due to sweat during use. This allows the electrodes to adapt well to the deformation of human skin, maintaining stable adhesion during muscle contraction and joint movement, effectively reducing motion artifacts and improving signal acquisition quality. Furthermore, the structural design, with adhesive and conductive layers respectively placed on both sides of the electrode substrate, ensures complete spatial separation between the two. This avoids mutual interference between the adhesive and conductive layers, maximizing the preservation of the electrical and tensile properties of the conductive layer. This allows the electrodes to maintain stable electrical signal acquisition quality while retaining good mechanical properties during application.

[0017] Second, this device employs a double-layer protection design with release paper and a protective film. This design provides ample protection for the electrodes during manufacturing, transportation, storage, and use, maximizing the protection of the electrical performance of the conductive layer. Simultaneously, it allows the electrodes to be peeled off and used in a specific sequence: first, remove the release paper for skin adhesion, then remove the protective film to begin use. This step-by-step operation significantly improves the ease of use and accuracy of operation.

[0018] Third, the circuit layer structure design of this device is well-suited to various conductive pattern processing technologies, enabling high-density arrangement of multiple electrode detection points. It is suitable for high-precision electromyography signal detection and motor unit electrical stimulation applications. Furthermore, the materials and processes used in this device are relatively simple, making it suitable for mass production and possessing good industrialization prospects. The overall fabrication process is simple, with low production costs, giving it strong market competitiveness. Attached Figure Description

[0019] Figure 1 This is an exploded view of the structure of a high-density flexible electromyography electrode according to this application; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the circuit layer of a high-density flexible electromyography electrode in this application; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the insulating layer and the single-sided adhesive film of a high-density flexible electromyography electrode in this application; Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of a rigid plastic pad for a high-density flexible electromyography electrode according to this application; Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the protective film and release paper of a high-density flexible electromyography electrode according to this application; In the picture: 1. Electrode substrate; 2. Circuit; 3. Electrode detection point; 4. Insulating layer; 5. Hard plastic gasket; 6. Single-sided adhesive film; 7. Protective film; 8. Release paper. Detailed Implementation

[0020] The technical solution of this utility model will now be clearly and completely described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some, not all, of the embodiments of this utility model. Based on the embodiments of this utility model, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this utility model.

[0021] In the description of this utility model, it should be noted that the terms "center," "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "inner," and "outer," 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 utility model 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 utility model. Furthermore, the terms "first," "second," and "third" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0022] like Figures 1-5 As shown, this application provides a high-density flexible electromyography electrode, including an electrode substrate 1, a detection hole, a release paper 8, and a protective film 7; The electrode substrate 1 has a first surface and a second surface. An adhesive layer is disposed on the first surface of the electrode substrate 1, and a circuit layer is disposed on the second surface of the electrode substrate 1. The circuit layer includes multiple circuits 2 and multiple electrode detection points 3 corresponding to the circuits 2. A detection hole is disposed at each electrode detection point 3. The detection hole penetrates the electrode substrate 1 and the adhesive layer. A conductive gel is disposed inside the detection hole. The conductive gel is in contact with the electrode detection point 3. Release paper 8 is covered on the adhesive layer, and a protective film 7 is covered on the circuit layer.

[0023] It should be noted that this application uses an independent adhesive layer, mainly composed of polyurethane material. The material's technical parameters include a peel strength of not less than 1.0N and a holding power of not more than 2.5mm. This solves the problem of electrodes easily detaching due to sweat during use, while also allowing the electrodes to adapt well to the deformation of human skin, maintaining stable adhesion during muscle contraction and joint movement, effectively reducing motion artifacts and improving signal acquisition quality.

[0024] It should be noted that the double-layer protection design of the protective film 7 and release paper 8 adopted in this application not only provides comprehensive protection for the electrodes during storage and transportation, but also enables convenient installation during use. The electrodes can be attached simply by peeling off the film, significantly improving the efficiency of clinical applications.

[0025] It should be noted that this application employs a structural design in which an adhesive layer and a conductive layer are respectively disposed on both sides of the electrode substrate 1, thereby completely separating the two in space. This avoids mutual interference between the adhesive layer and the conductive layer and preserves the electrical and tensile properties of the conductive layer to the greatest extent. This spatially separated layout enables the electrode to maintain stable electrical signal acquisition quality during application, while also maintaining good mechanical properties.

[0026] According to a specific embodiment of this utility model, the electrode substrate 1 is a flexible and stretchable polymer film. The electrode substrate 1 is selected from polyethylene terephthalate, polycarbonate, polydimethylsiloxane, and amorphous indium gallium zinc oxide. These materials are selected because of their flexibility, stretchability, and compatibility with electrode functions. The flexible and stretchable characteristics of the polymer film ensure that the electrode adapts to skin movement and maintains stable contact during muscle contraction, thereby improving signal quality and reducing motion artifacts.

[0027] According to a specific embodiment of this utility model, the circuit layer is formed by conductive ink, which is selected from one of carbon-based conductive ink, copper-based conductive ink, highly conductive graphene ink, and stretchable silver conductor ink, so as to ensure good conductivity of the circuit layer and maintain good flexibility of the electrodes.

[0028] According to a specific embodiment of this utility model, the conductive gel is selected from one of the following: photocurable biomass-based dual-network conductive hydrogel, CNF / PANI-PB hydrogel, UV-assisted curing gel, and NaCl-containing organic hydrogel, which provides a reliable and stable circuit connection while ensuring good skin compatibility.

[0029] According to a specific embodiment of this utility model, the size of the detection hole is smaller than the size of the electrode detection point 3, to prevent the conductive gel in the detection hole from overflowing and to ensure the accuracy of signal detection.

[0030] According to a specific embodiment of the present invention, it further includes an insulating layer 4, which is disposed between the plane of the circuit layer and the protective film 7, so as to protect the circuit layer, maintain the good conductivity of the circuit layer, and prevent external electrical signal interference detection.

[0031] According to a specific embodiment of this utility model, a hard plastic pad 5 is provided on one side of the electromyography electrode. The design of the hard plastic pad 5 not only facilitates the removal and use of the electrode, but also provides fixed protection for the concentrated area of ​​the electrode signal lines, greatly improving the user experience of the product, reducing the possibility of operational errors, and extending the service life of the electrode.

[0032] It should be noted that in actual production, a single-sided adhesive film 6 is used to complete the encapsulation on the outside of the hard plastic pad 5. This not only facilitates the bonding of the release paper 8 during the subsequent electromyography electrode manufacturing process, but also facilitates the separation of the release paper 8 and the hard plastic pad 5 during actual use, making it more convenient for users.

[0033] According to a specific embodiment of the present invention, multiple electrode detection points 3 are arranged in an array, and the spacing between adjacent multiple electrode detection points 3 is in the range of 3mm-10mm. This design achieves high-density signal acquisition while maintaining sufficient spacing to avoid signal crosstalk between channels.

[0034] like Figure 2 As shown, this is a specific embodiment of the present invention, wherein the electrode detection points 3 are distributed in an array, each electrode detection point has a diameter of 3 mm, and the spacing between the electrode detection points is 5 mm, forming a high-density acquisition network of 32 channels. Using 32-channel electrode sheets provides better stability for electromyography signal acquisition in actual measurement applications.

[0035] The working principle of this utility model is as follows: When performing electromyography (EMG) testing, this device needs to be used in conjunction with an EMG acquisition system, which includes a sensor interface, an acquisition device, and a display device connected in sequence by wires.

[0036] Installing the electrode pads: First, peel off the release paper 8 on the back of the electrode pads so that the electrode pad adhesive layer is attached to the surface of the target muscle. After ensuring that the electrode pads are in full contact with the skin, peel off the transparent protective film 7 on the surface. Then, insert one end of the electrode pad signal line into the sensor interface and press it together.

[0037] Turn on the acquisition device, set the relevant parameters (such as sampling frequency, filtering, etc.), and start recording muscle electrical activity data.

[0038] The electrical signals generated during muscle movement pass through the skin and conductive gel, entering the circuit layer on the electrode plate through the detection hole. They are then transmitted along the circuit layer to one end where the signal lines of the electrode plate converge. After passing through the sensor interface, the signals enter the acquisition device via wires. After processing by the acquisition device, the processed signals are transmitted to the display device via wires, where the waveform of the electrical signals generated by the changes in muscle movement is output.

[0039] After stopping recording, disconnect the electrode pads from the sensor interface and properly store the recorded data.

[0040] Example 1 See Figures 1-5 This embodiment discloses a method for preparing a high-density flexible electromyography electrode, the specific steps of which are as follows: S1. A circuit layer is fabricated on an electrode substrate 1 (a flexible and stretchable material such as polyethylene terephthalate, polycarbonate, polydimethylsiloxane, or amorphous indium gallium zinc oxide, etc.) with an adhesive layer. The circuit layer and the adhesive layer are located on opposite sides of the electrode substrate 1, respectively. Then, circuit 2 and electrode detection points 3 in the circuit layer are fabricated using processes such as screen printing and spraying. Circuit 2 and electrode detection points 3 can be designed as single-channel or multi-channel high-density structures. S2. Make a detection hole at electrode detection point 3, so that the detection hole runs through the entire electrode substrate 1, the adhesive layer and electrode detection point 3. The size of the detection hole is slightly smaller than that of electrode detection point 3, and the size ratio is 0.8:1, which can make the conductive hydrogel fully cover the detection point and reduce the impedance.

[0041] S3. Apply conductive gel (photocurable biomass-based double network conductive hydrogel, CNF / PANI-PB hydrogel, UV-assisted curing gel, or NaCl-containing organic hydrogel) to the detection hole and obtain a solid conductive gel by UV curing or immersion curing.

[0042] S4. An insulating layer 4 is prepared on the side surface of the electrode substrate 1 with the circuit layer. The insulating layer 4 can be a stretchable thin film or a polymer film with an adhesive layer.

[0043] S5. Install a hard plastic pad 5 on one side of the adhesive layer of the electrode substrate 1, and then encapsulate the hard plastic pad 5 with a single-sided adhesive film 6.

[0044] S6. Release paper 8 is attached to the outside of the adhesive layer side of the electrode substrate 1.

[0045] S7. A protective film 7 is attached to the outside of the circuit layer side of the electrode substrate 1.

[0046] It should be noted that the circuit layer structure design of this device is well-suited to various conductive pattern processing technologies, enabling high-density arrangement of multiple detection points. This makes it suitable for high-precision electromyography signal detection and motor unit electrical stimulation applications. Furthermore, the materials and processes used in this device are relatively simple, making it suitable for mass production and possessing good industrialization prospects. The overall fabrication process is simple, production costs are low, and it has strong market competitiveness. The above embodiments are only for illustrating the technical concept and features of this utility model, and are intended to enable those skilled in the art to understand the content of this utility model and implement it accordingly. They should not be construed as limiting the scope of protection of this utility model. All equivalent transformations or modifications made in accordance with the spirit and essence of this utility model should be included within the scope of protection of this utility model.

Claims

1. A high-density flexible surface electromyography electrode, characterized by: Includes electrode substrate, release paper, and protective film; The electrode substrate has a first surface and a second surface disposed opposite to each other. An adhesive layer is disposed on the first surface of the electrode substrate, and a circuit layer is disposed on the second surface of the electrode substrate. The circuit layer includes multiple circuits and multiple electrode detection points corresponding to the circuits. A detection hole is disposed at each electrode detection point. The detection hole penetrates the electrode substrate and the adhesive layer. A conductive gel is disposed inside the detection hole. The conductive gel is in electrical contact with the electrode detection point. Release paper is covered on the adhesive layer, and a protective film is covered on the circuit layer.

2. The high-density flexible surface electromyography electrode according to claim 1, wherein: The electrode substrate is a flexible, stretchable polymer film.

3. The high-density flexible surface electromyography electrode of claim 1, wherein: The electrode substrate is selected from one of polyethylene terephthalate, polycarbonate, polydimethylsiloxane, and amorphous indium gallium zinc oxide.

4. The high-density flexible surface electromyography electrode according to claim 1, characterized in that: The circuit layer is formed of conductive ink, which is selected from one of carbon-based conductive ink, copper-based conductive ink, highly conductive graphene ink, and stretchable silver conductor ink.

5. The high-density flexible surface electromyography electrode according to claim 1, characterized in that: The conductive gel is selected from one of the following: photocurable biomass-based dual-network conductive hydrogel, CNF / PANI-PB hydrogel, UV-assisted curing gel, and NaCl-containing organic hydrogel.

6. The high-density flexible surface electromyography electrode of claim 1, wherein: The size of the detection hole is smaller than the size of the electrode detection point.

7. The high-density flexible surface electromyography electrode of claim 1, wherein: It also includes an insulating layer disposed between the plane of the circuit layer and the protective film.

8. The high-density flexible surface electromyography electrode of claim 1, wherein: A hard plastic pad is provided on one side of the electromyography electrode.

9. The high-density flexible surface electromyography electrode of claim 1, wherein: The multiple electrode detection points are distributed in an array.

10. A high-density flexible surface electromyography electrode according to claim 9, characterized in that: The spacing between adjacent electrode detection points ranges from 3mm to 10mm.

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