TEXTILE ELECTRODE

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a textile electrode with a planar base body made of an electrically non-conductive material, with an inner side facing a main surface in the applied state and an outer side opposite the inner side.

[0002] Textile electrodes are used to be placed on a patient's skin to record electrical, particularly myoelectric, signals and transmit them to an evaluation unit, optionally with the addition of an amplifier. Alternatively, an electrical signal or impulse can be transmitted to the patient via the skin surface using a textile electrode to stimulate the muscles. It is also possible to monitor patient parameters via the electrode. The base body, made of a non-conductive material, is designed so that an electrical signal or impulse transmitted through the base body via a conductor to a contact surface is not distorted, or only negligibly so. The base body is preferably flexible to allow for flat application to the skin surface.

[0003] To control prostheses or orthoses, myoelectric signals are picked up from the skin surface to be used as control signals for the actuators or adjustment mechanisms of the orthoses or prostheses. Dome electrodes or suction-stem electrodes, positioned on the skin surface, are typically used for this purpose. With suction-stem electrodes, a metallic, electrically conductive contact surface with an amplifier is positioned within a plastic housing in a recess in a liner or prosthetic socket. Due to the housing's height, it is necessary to provide the liner and / or outer socket with a corresponding recess for the housing. The positioning of the suction-stem electrode is not adjustable, particularly when arranged in a recess in a rigid outer socket. The need for a cutout makes the use of vacuum socket technology more difficult.

[0004] Dome electrodes consist of hemispherical contact surfaces made of metal, for example, titanium. Cables run from the contact surfaces to amplifiers and a control unit where the myoelectric signal is evaluated and processed. If necessary, the signal is digitized and then used to control an actuator. Dome electrodes are also integrated into a recess in a liner and are, on the one hand, stationary and, on the other hand, difficult to position due to the point-like design of the contact surface.

[0005] WO 2016 / 131936 A1 concerns a device or system and a method for detecting stimuli on a user. The stimuli can include electrical stimulation stimuli and also haptic stimuli such as vibrations. In particular, stimulation impulses are to be transmitted to the user to stimulate biological tissues such as muscles or nerves. For this purpose, stimulation electrodes are embroidered or moss-covered onto a textile or are first applied to a carrier material, which is then connected to the textile, in particular by sewing, embroidery, gluing, lasering, or welding.

[0006] DE 10 2014 108 316 A1 relates to cycling shorts for muscular stimulation of the thigh muscles with at least one pair of integrated, textile-based contact electrodes and a body sensor equipped to record a biological response for the development of the active movement phase.

[0007] US Patent 2017 / 0196514 A1 relates to a sensor for measuring physiological electrical signals, comprising a first textile electrode, a detecting textile section for detecting physiological electrical signals, and a peripheral textile section directly adjacent to the detecting section. The detecting textile section has an electrically conductive detecting surface area intended to come into contact with an individual's skin. The sensor has a first electrical connection configured to electrically connect the first textile electrode to a first electrical connector. The first textile electrode has a three-dimensional textile structure produced by weaving warp and weft threads. The detection section comprises an upper textile layer, the upper surface of which extends over the detection area, and a lower textile layer located beneath it.The upper and lower layers are connected along a circumferential connection line to create a cavity defined by the connection line and to define an area outside the connection line that encompasses the peripheral textile section. The cavity is filled with a filler material so that the detecting textile section protrudes in height relative to the peripheral textile section.

[0008] DE 20 2006 007 226 U1 describes a textile electrode comprising a first textile surface for placement on a patient's skin and a second textile surface arranged at a distance from the first. The first textile surface includes at least one electrode area formed from an electrically conductive thread. At least one spacer thread runs between the first and second textile surfaces. The second textile surface is designed to be elastically deformable such that a restoring force, counteracting any elastic deformation of the second textile surface, is transmitted to the electrode area via the spacer thread.

[0009] WO 2008 / 022482 A1 relates to a textile electrode device, in particular for multi-channel electrical stimulation or electrophysiological measurements, comprising a textile layer with an electrode group designed for skin contact on the side facing the body. The electrode group includes several embroidered electrodes stitched onto the textile layer, each connected to an electrical lead. The lead is designed as an embroidered conductor on a second textile layer located on the side of the first textile layer facing away from the body. Each embroidered electrode is in planar contact with the associated conductor in a contact area.

[0010] EP 2 671 506 A1 describes a three-dimensional textile electrode for embedding in a knitted base layer for measuring a user's personal electrical potentials. The textile electrode has a tubular support element with a longitudinal axis. A tubular conductive area with a longitudinal axis, consisting of conductive yarn and elastane, surrounds the support element radially. Two non-conductive areas delimit the conductive area in an axial longitudinal direction, with a silicone insulating layer applied to the sides or back of the tubular conductive area.

[0011] The publication "Embroidered Electrodes For Control Of Affordable Myoelectric Electrodes" (2018 IEEE International Conference On Robotics And Automation, May 21, 2018, pages 1812-1817, XP033403490, Pitou et al.) describes an embroidered textile electrode made of metal threads with a snap fastener. The metallic threads are embroidered using a sewing machine.

[0012] The publication "Performance of Electromyography Recorded Using Textile Electrodes In Classifying Arm Movements", Engineering In Medicine And Biology Society, EMBC, 2011 Annual International Conference Of The IEEE, August 30, 2011, pages 4243 - 4246, XP032319623, Li et al.) describes a textile electrode using copper-based, nickel-coated conductive materials. The textile electrodes are arranged on a band made of rubber and nylon.

[0013] The publication "Real-Time Performance Of Textile Electrodes In Electromyogram Pattern-Recognition Based Prosthesis Control", Biomedical And Health Informatic, 2012 IEEE-EMBS International Conference, January 5, 2012, pages 487-490, XP032449110, Tao et al.) describes textile electrodes produced by screen printing with conductive ink onto textile. The textile electrodes are attached to two bands that are placed around a limb.

[0014] The recording of myoelectric signals, which are generated by muscle activation and are to be recorded by electrodes, remains problematic.

[0015] Clothing and orthotic devices worn by patients increasingly incorporate electronic components, either integrated into or permanently attached to them. The problem with these so-called "smart textiles," which contain electronic components such as amplifiers, control units, or evaluation units for sensor signals, is that these products are either not washable or, if the electronic components fail, the entire garment or orthotic device must be replaced. In particular, surfactants in detergents, even in waterproof versions, can attack the electronic components and, especially when combined with the mechanical stresses of washing, can destroy them.

[0016] Conventional connectors, buttons, or snap fasteners for the detachable connection of electronic devices to textiles are usually relatively large and bulky, and therefore inconvenient. Furthermore, the contacts are located separately in each snap fastener, making it impossible to combine all contacts into a single fastener. Snap fasteners are typically made of metal, meaning each one forms a contact surface. Additionally, a clear assignment of contacts is not always guaranteed.

[0017] The invention therefore also relates to a contacting device for the detachable fastening of electrical or electronic components to a flexible base body, as well as an orthopaedic device with a flexible base body made of a textile or foam and with such a contacting device.

[0018] The object of the present invention is therefore to provide an electrode that has a simplified structure compared to conventional electrodes, is able to receive myoelectric signals and is easy and versatile to use.

[0019] According to the invention, this problem is solved by a textile electrode with the features of the main claim. Advantageous embodiments and further developments of the invention are disclosed in the dependent claims, the figures, and the description.

[0020] The textile electrode, comprising a planar base body made of an electrically non-conductive material, with an inner surface facing the skin when applied and an outer surface opposite the inner surface, provides that at least one myoelectric signal-receiving electrode is arranged or formed on the inner surface. This electrode comprises or is formed from at least one electrically conductive thread, forming a contact surface. The contact surface is formed on at least one bonding film that extends beyond the outer circumference of the contact surface. The invention provides that the contact surface is formed on a textile blank on which at least one bonding film is arranged. This bonding film extends beyond the outer circumference of the textile blank and is bonded to the base body.The textile cutout advantageously corresponds essentially to the contour of a cutout in the base body and advantageously fills this cutout completely or almost completely. The bonding film(s) extend beyond the edge of the cutout towards the base body and secure the electrode at the desired point on the base body. The outside of the electrode is covered by another bonding film.

[0021] The contact surface of the electrode for receiving myoelectric signals can consist of or incorporate at least one electrically conductive thread to form flatter and less bulky electrodes. This electrode can also be arranged, for example, in a textile inner lining of a liner. The electrode area of ​​a pattern recognition system can utilize a multitude of such textile-based myoelectric electrodes within liners, thus eliminating the need for an orthotist to individually install and screw each electrode into a prosthetic socket or limb receptacle when fitting a patient with a prosthesis or orthosis.

[0022] The electrode can be embroidered, sewn, woven, knitted, printed, bonded, welded, or glued onto the base body, or alternatively, it can be formed as an integral part of the base body. An electrode or electrode area is considered an integral part of the base body when the electrically conductive thread is a structurally essential element of the base body, for example, as a warp or weft thread in a woven base body. If the electrode is printed, this can be done using an additive manufacturing process such as 3D printing or screen printing.The connection to the flexible base allows the electrodes, which consist of electrically conductive threads or contain electrically conductive threads, to deform along with the base during muscle contractions and adapt to the curvature of the body and changing shapes, instead of partially lifting from the skin surface as with rigid electrodes. The thread-based design makes it possible to use an absorbent base as a carrier, thus preventing or reducing short circuits between contact surfaces or points even in cases of high moisture accumulation, such as from perspiration.

[0023] A further development of the invention provides that the electrode is designed with a metallic upper and / or lower thread as an electrically conductive thread. Optionally, the lower thread can be made of a metallic material and the upper thread of a non-metallic material, which may facilitate sewing the metallic thread. The metallic, electrically conductive thread can be a purely metallic thread, for example, made of stainless steel, silver, gold, copper, platinum, or titanium. It is also possible to provide the metallic thread with a plastic core and a metallic coating or another conductive material such as graphite, or to form the thread entirely from this material. Silver is also generally suitable as a material, both for forming a purely metallic thread and for coating, but has the disadvantage of a tendency to oxidize.Gold threads or gold coatings have the disadvantage of being comparatively expensive.

[0024] One embodiment of the invention provides that the electrode is designed with a laying and / or needle thread as an electrically conductive thread to create a contact surface. Alternatively or additionally, the electrode can be designed as an electrically conductive thread knitted into a surface or with a warp and / or weft thread as an electrically conductive thread.

[0025] The non-metallic top thread can be made of a plastic or natural material; if necessary, the non-metallic top thread can be made of a high-strength, especially elastic, material to provide sufficient counter-tension during sewing and sufficient strength.

[0026] A further development of the invention provides that several contacts are arranged next to each other and electrically separated from each other on the base body, making it possible to form an electrode arrangement with a ground electrode or identification electrode preferably in the middle between two signal electrodes.

[0027] An electrical conductor can be routed from the electrode's contact surface to an electrical or electronic component, a connector base, or a connector on or within the base material. For example, the electrode's contact surface can be designed so that the electrode does not pierce or print through all layers or the entire thickness of the base material, thus preventing an electrically conductive thread from being present on the outer surface. However, it is also possible to pierce the base material with the electrically conductive thread. The conductor can be a simple pilot stitch within the fabric or a guided conductor in a space between the inner and outer surfaces of the base material.At the end of the electrical conductor facing away from the contact surface, a connection point or contact point may be arranged or formed to connect the electrode to a detachable contact, for example to supply an amplifier and / or a control device with the myoelectric signals from the electrode.

[0028] A further development of the invention provides that the contact surface is formed from a pre-cut piece attached to the base body. The pre-cut piece is preferably also a textile and can be cut, punched, or otherwise separated from a larger textile material. It is also possible for the pre-cut piece to have a core or base made of a non-textile material that is embroidered, wrapped, woven, or sewn, so that a corresponding contact surface can be formed from the electrically conductive thread. This separate pre-cut piece with at least one electrically conductive thread or with a contact surface made from an electrically conductive thread is then attached to the base body, in particular by sewing, gluing, or welding.When sewing the cut piece, an electrically conductive thread is preferably used, which simultaneously serves as a conductor to a plug, a plug base or a contact point to an electrical or electronic component.

[0029] A further development of the invention provides that a volume element is embedded in the cutout, resulting in a bulge towards the skin surface. The volume element is preferably flexible, particularly elastic, to ensure uniform and extensive pressure and contact with the skin surface without compromising comfort. The volume element can be completely sewn, glued, welded, or similarly bonded, particularly with electrically conductive thread. Alternatively, a two-layer cutout with a volume element positioned between the two layers can be applied to the base material, for example, by gluing, sewing, embroidery, or similar methods. The two layers of the cutout can also be bonded together, for example, using a bonding film.

[0030] The base body can be formed from a spacer fabric with an upper fabric and an underfabric, and supporting threads arranged between them, wherein the supporting threads fix the upper and underfabric fabrics to each other and keep them spaced apart. Alternatively, the base body can consist of a multi-layered textile system or of a woven or knitted fabric, preferably thick enough to accommodate a conductor leading away from a contact surface.

[0031] Preferably, the contact surface is sewn onto one side of two layers of bonding film, with the adhesive sides of the bonding films facing each other. The contact surface is formed on the side of the bonding film opposite the adhesive sides and can be sewn on with a top thread made of stainless steel yarn or another electrically conductive thread and a bottom thread, also made of an electrically conductive material, for example, stainless steel. Alternatively or additionally, the electrically conductive thread(s) can be processed using another method described above to form the contact surface. To connect the electrode, the base body is provided with a through-opening, which is preferably as large as the outer circumference around the contact surfaces.The protruding bonding film is adhered to the respective inner or outer surface of the base body using the adhesive layers, thus creating a permanent bond. An electrical conductor from the contact surface to another electrical or electronic component can be routed within the base body.

[0032] From the contact surface, an electrical conductor can lead to an electrically conductive connection point located on the outside of the base body or a textile cutout, from which a plug connection can be made to transmit, amplify and / or supply the myoelectric signals to a control system.

[0033] The object of the present invention is also to produce a contacting device and an orthopaedic device with a contacting device that enables a secure connection and easy separation of the electronic component from a base body.

[0034] According to the invention, this problem is solved by a contacting device for the detachable fastening of electrical or electronic components to a flexible base body, comprising a base that can be fixed to the base body and has an opening that points away from the base body, with at least one electrically conductive contact surface that is arranged in the opening on the base and is connected to an electrical conductor that can be positioned on or in the base body, with a plug element on which at least one plug contact surface is arranged or formed that corresponds to the contact surface on the base and is connected to an electrical conductor, the opening of the base serves to receive the plug element and the plug element and the base have corresponding positive locking elements.which, in a joined state of plug element and base, effect a positive locking mechanism against displacement from the opening, wherein the plug element and the base lock together under a preload, and are released from an orthopaedic device with a flexible base body made of a textile or foam.

[0035] The contacting device for the detachable fastening of electrical or electronic components to a flexible base body comprises a base that can be fixed to the base body and has an opening that points away from the base body when the base is fixed to the base body. The contacting device further comprises at least one electrically conductive contact surface located in the opening on the base and connected to an electrical conductor that can be positioned on or in the base body. A connector element, on which at least one connector contact surface is arranged or formed, corresponding to the contact surface on the base and connected to an electrical conductor, is associated with the contacting device.The opening in the base serves to receive the connector element, wherein the connector element and the base have corresponding positive locking elements which, in a joined state, effect a positive locking mechanism preventing displacement from the opening. The connector element and the base lock together under a preload, so that the contacting device is locked in one direction, the locking direction and preload preferably being perpendicular to the opening direction, i.e., preferably in a plane parallel to the plane of the base body if the latter is flat.

[0036] The electrical conductors connected to the contact surface or surfaces on or in the base may, in the assembled state of the contacting device, be located on or, in particular, within the base body, for example in spaces, channels or gaps in the base body, for example between two textile layers or between an upper textile and an undertextile of a spacer fabric.

[0037] Since the contacting device can be worn on a user's body, the opening of the base towards the main body is preferably sealed or closed, or at least substantially closed, to reduce or prevent the ingress of moisture, such as sweat, from the body side. This prevents corrosion of the contact surfaces. Conductors from the contact surfaces can be routed through the main body to other electrical or electronic components, such as sensors or electrodes for recording myoelectric signals. The seal does not necessarily need to be waterproof and / or airtight; largely preventing the ingress of moisture is sufficient.

[0038] A support rim can be arranged or formed at the base for resting on the base body. Since the base has a depth with the opening, it is preferably provided that the contacting device is embedded in a recess within the base body, for example, in a cutout or cavity. To facilitate or enable flush positioning of the base on the base body, a support rim is formed on the base, which is arranged around the opening, thus enabling and facilitating positioning. The support rim can be weldable or bondable to the base body and, for example, be made of a material that can be welded to the base body or be provided or capable of being provided with an adhesive on the side facing the base body.The welding or bonding can be fully formed, or alternatively, only partial bonding or welding with the base body is present.

[0039] A further development of the invention provides that the opening has side edges arranged parallel to and / or at right angles to each other in order to provide a rectangular or nearly rectangular opening in which the connector element can be received with a corresponding shape. Such a shape of the opening's circumference makes it possible to hold the connector element in a clearly oriented position within the opening, thus facilitating precise contact by bringing contact surfaces into contact.

[0040] Alignment devices for unambiguous orientation of the connector element and base relative to each other can be arranged or formed on the connector element and the base, for example, by a shape of the opening that prevents incorrect contact. This is achieved through non-rotationally symmetrical shapes or essentially hinge-symmetrical shapes with projections and corresponding recesses on the connector element and the base. It is also possible that the positive locking elements for securing the connector elements to the base are designed in such a way that only one unambiguous orientation is possible, thus ensuring a secure, positive locking connection of the base to the connector element and preventing incorrect contact.

[0041] Preferably, three contact surfaces are arranged on the base and three corresponding plug contact surfaces are arranged on the plug element to connect electrodes within the base body to the contact surfaces via appropriate contact through the conductors. The electrodes typically have two signal contact surfaces and one ground contact surface, which is preferably arranged between the two signal contact surfaces. Together with the unambiguous assignment of the plug element to the base and the unambiguous contact, a secure and reverse-polarity-free fixation of the plug element to the base is ensured, thus enabling contact between the electrode and an electrical or electronic device, such as a control device, evaluation device, or amplifier.

[0042] In one embodiment of the invention, the connector contact surfaces are arranged on an end face of the connector element to enable contact between the connector contact surfaces and the contact surfaces on or within the base during the insertion movement. The connector contact surfaces are preferably arranged on the end face of a positive locking element that engages in the base and prevents the connector element from being removed from the opening perpendicular to the plane in which the opening lies. The positive locking elements can advantageously be designed as a projecting tongue and a corresponding recess, with the tongue or projections preferably being arranged on the connector element and the recess preferably being located within the opening.By pivoting and pressing down the connector element, the connector contact surface is brought into contact with the contact surface within the base, establishing an electrical contact or contacts for transmitting electrical signals. A clip or spring element, located on the side opposite the tongue or acting transversely to it, provides a locking mechanism to prevent removal or pivoting. A spring force or preload acting towards the end face of the connector element provides additional contact pressure between the connector contact surface and the contact surface within the base.

[0043] A seal can be arranged or formed around the opening to protect the contact within the opening or base against moisture, dirt, and other environmental influences. Preferably, the seal is arranged or formed in such a way that, in conjunction with the connector element, it seals the opening, at least reducing the ingress of moisture and / or dirt.

[0044] The connector can accommodate an amplifier to amplify an electrical signal that is to be transmitted from the contact surfaces of the base to another electrical or electronic device.

[0045] A further development of the invention provides that the base is equipped with a cover for closing the opening, for example, to close the opening during a washing process in order to protect the contacts from solvents or detergents when the connector element and the electrical or electronic component arranged on the connector element via conductors leading away from the connector element are removed. This ensures, on the one hand, that the base body remains washable in the assembled state with the contacting device and, on the other hand, provides effective protection for the contact points within the base.

[0046] The orthopaedic device consists of a flexible base body made of a textile or foam, on or in which a contacting device as described above is arranged or integrated.

[0047] The conductors can be embedded in the base body by the contact surface or contact surfaces of the base, so that on the one hand the conductor is protected from mechanical and other environmental influences and on the other hand the wearing comfort of the orthopaedic device is not impaired.

[0048] Sensors or electrodes connected to the conductor can be integrated into or attached to the base body, for example by gluing, sewing, welding, or by embroidery, weaving, or the like.

[0049] The sensors or electrodes can be fixed to the base body via a bonding film, so that protection or at least a substantial seal against the fabric or foam of the base body can be achieved while simultaneously fixing them to the base body.

[0050] The base can be glued, welded, or otherwise attached to the main body. Alternatively, the base can be connected to the main body via a bonding film with contact points or through-holes for the conductors. This allows for the initial connection of conductors from sensors or electrodes to the contact points on the bonding film, and then the base to the contact points via this bonding film, creating a permanent electrical connection.

[0051] Exemplary embodiments of the invention are explained in more detail below with reference to the accompanying figures. These show: Figure 1: a base body with three electrodes; Figure 2: a base body with a plug element arranged on the outside; Figure 3: a base body with textile electrodes on the inside; Figure 4: the base body according to Figure 3View from the outside; Figures 5 to 7: Electrodes with cutouts; Figure 8: An electrode pad with double-layered bonding film; Figure 9: A pad according to Figure 8 before assembly; Figure 10 a schematic sectional view of the connection between the electrode and the base body; Figure 11 electrode arrangement with contact points on the outside; Figure 12 a connector base and a bonding foil; Figure 13 the assembled components of the Figures 11 and 12 Figure 14 – an orthopaedic device with a contacting device; Figure 15 – a detailed view of the Figure 14Figure 16 – a disassembled contacting device in top view; Figure 17 – a sensor arrangement; Figure 18 – a partially assembled base; Figure 19 – a bottom view of an orthopaedic device with electrodes and sensors; Figure 20 – a partial view of an orthopaedic device with a connected contacting device; Figure 21 – a detail view of a base with connecting elements; Figure 22 – a top view of a plug element; Figure 23 – a bottom view of a plug element; Figure 24 – a side view of a plug element; Figure 25 – a schematic sectional view of a plug element; Figure 26 – a plug element before contacting; Figure 27 – a top and bottom view of a base; Figure 28 – a schematic sectional view of a joining process; and Figure 29 – a schematic representation of the components and their assembly.

[0052] Figure 1Figure 1 shows a base body 10 in a partial view with a visible inner surface 11, on the surface of which a total of three electrodes 21, 22, 23 are formed. The electrodes 21, 22, 23 are each formed from an electrically conductive thread 30, which in the illustrated embodiment consists of stainless steel yarn and is woven into the upper surface of the inner surface 11, so that the electrically conductive thread 30 forms a contact field or contact surface 40 suitable for placement on the skin of a patient. Several electrically conductive threads 30 or a mixture of threads of different materials can also be used to form the contact surface 40. Myoelectric signals from a patient are received via the electrically conductive thread 30 and transmitted via conductors 50 that run along the inside of the base body 10.The electrically conductive threads 30 are arranged and fixed to the base body 10 such that they each form a separate contact surface 40, via which the myoelectric signals from the respective electrodes 21, 22, 23 can be received and transmitted. The space between the electrodes 21, 22, 23 is made of an electrically non-conductive material, so that no signal distortion occurs. Due to the fabric formation with the stainless steel yarn as the electrically conductive thread 30, it is possible to avoid piercing through all layers of the base body 10, allowing the electrically conductive threads 30 to come into contact with the skin only on the surface of the inner layer 11. Therefore, no insulation needs to be applied to the outer surface of the base body 10. The conductors 50 can also be made of an electrically conductive thread 30.

[0053] Figure 2Figure 1 shows the outer surface 12 of the base body 10 with an amplifier or connector element 70 attached to it. The conductors 50 inside the base body 10 lead from the electrodes 21, 22, 23 (not shown) on the inner surface 11 to the amplifier or connector element 70 on the outer surface 12. The conductors 50 can be positioned within the base body 10 by a simple pre-stitch in the space between the layers of the base body 10, which may, for example, be designed as a spacer fabric. The conductors 50 are brought to the surface of the outer surface 12 and connected to corresponding receptacles on the connector element 70. This can be achieved, for example, by a positive-locking connection of the electrical conductor 50 in a through-hole or an eyelet, similar to the eye of a needle. The electrical conductor 50 is passed through the opening and knotted.Alternatively or additionally, for example, the electrical conductor can be plugged, soldered, or crimped to the contact point on the connector element 70. The myoelectric signal, optionally after amplification by an amplifier arranged on the connector element 70, can then be forwarded to a control device for evaluation. Instead of the connector element 70, a connector base or another electrical or electronic component can also be connected in this way to the myoelectric electrodes 21, 22, 23 on the inner surface 11 of the base body 10, with the components preferably located on the outer surface 12 of the base body 10.

[0054] Figure 3Figure 1 shows a variant of the invention with a base body 10 in partial view with electrodes 21, 22, 23 arranged on the inner surface 11. In the illustrated embodiment, three electrodes are present, the middle electrode 22 being designed as a grounding electrode. Here too, non-conductive spaces are provided between the electrodes 21, 22, 23, with the contact surfaces 40 of the electrodes 21, 22, 23 again being formed by an electrically conductive thread 30. In the illustrated embodiment, the electrically conductive thread 30 is a stainless steel yarn sewn onto the base body 10. The sewing can be carried out with a lower thread made of stainless steel yarn and a top thread made of a non-conductive material, for example, a polyester yarn. A film can be arranged between the contact surfaces 40 to provide further separation between the electrodes 21, 22, 23.Here too, conductors 50 lead from the individual electrodes 21, 22, 23 through the fabric of the base body 10 to another component. The conductor 50 can be formed as a simple running stitch in the space between the spacer fabric of the base body 10. The contact surfaces 40 can be sewn on with a high-speed zigzag stitch. The contact pressure can be increased by volume elements, for example made of silicone or the like, applied to the back. These volume elements are placed behind the electrodes 21, 22, 23 on the outside and correspond to a bonding film 80 on the outside 12, as shown in the figure. Figure 4 depicted.

[0055] Figure 5Figure 1 shows a variant of the design of the textile electrode with contact surfaces 40 formed from a blank 45. The blank 45 has at least one electrically conductive thread 30, at least in the area of ​​the contact surfaces 40. Preferably, the blank 45 consists predominantly of electrically conductive threads 30, at least on the top surface or the side that forms the contact surface 40 with the skin. The blanks 45 can be cut out, punched, or otherwise separated from a base blank. In the illustrated embodiments, the blanks 45 are essentially round. The blank 45 can also be embroidered with an electrically conductive thread 30. To increase the contact pressure of the electrodes 21, 22, 23, a volume element is placed behind the blank 45 and fixed to the base body 10 together with the blank 45. This fixing can be achieved by welding, gluing, or sewing.If the sewing is done with an electrically conductive thread, this can be used as a conductor 50 to a plug element, amplifier, plug base or other electrical or electronic component.

[0056] The electrically conductive thread 30 is then led out of the base body 10 to a surface, in the illustrated embodiment to the inside 11. In principle, it is also possible to lead the electrically conductive thread 30 out of the base body 10 on the outside 12.

[0057] In the Figure 6 A variant of the invention is shown, which is essentially the same as the Figure 5 This corresponds, however, instead of a single-layer design of the cut 45 in the Figure 6A two-layer cut is provided, which, via adhesive bonding or a bonding film 80, forms an enclosed volume element thicker than the single-layer version. The continued flat contact of the lower layer results in stable positioning and easy sewing.

[0058] Figure 7 Figure 1 shows another variant with spherical electrodes 21, 22, 23, which are formed by a spherical volume element together with the blank 45 and sewn onto the base body 10. In the embodiments according to Figures 5 and 7 The electrodes 21, 22, 23 are covered with stainless steel yarn using a running stitch, the electrically conductive thread 30 leads as conductor 50 from the electrode 21, 22, 23 directly to the plug-in element 70 or an amplifier.

[0059] Figure 8Figure 1 shows a variant of the invention in which the respective electrode 21, 22, 23 is sewn onto two layers of bonding film 80 with an electrically conductive thread 30 to form a modularly designed contact surface pad. The adhesive layers of the bonding films 80 face each other, and the middle electrode 22 is the grounding electrode. The basic structure is as follows: Figure 10 The schematic sectional view shows the bonding foils 80 arranged above and below, the electrodes 21, 22, 23 next to each other with their respective contact surfaces 40, and the base body 10 with a recess 13. This recess 13 is located in the Figure 9The contact pad is recognizable together with the electrodes 21, 22, 23. To attach the electrodes 21, 22, 23 to the base body 10, the contact pad is threaded in so that the electrodes 21, 22, 23 are located within the recess 13. The overhang of the respective bonding film 80 is applied to the inner surface 11 and the outer surface 12 and can be glued, welded, sewn, or otherwise fixed to the base body 10 there. A protective cover 81 for electrically conductive threads 30 can be applied to the outer surface 12.

[0060] Figure 11 shows a variant of the Figure 8 , in which electrodes are formed on the underside (not shown) of a textile blank 90 via electrically conductive threads 30. These electrodes are connected to electrically conductive connection points 61 via conductors (not shown). To form a plug base 60, in the Figure 12A mounting frame 62 is shown, which enables the mechanical fixing of a connector element (not shown). The connector mounting frame 62 is assigned to the electrically conductive connection points 61 and attached to the surface of the textile blank 90. ​​The fixing is achieved via a bonding film 80, which provides a sufficiently large opening for the connector element to pass through to the connection points 61. A fully assembled connector base 60 is shown in the Figure 13 The connector base frame 62 with the connection points 61 arranged therein can be seen, as well as the bonding foil 80 and the electrical threads of the electrodes which are protected by insulation by the cover 81.

[0061] Figure 14Figure 1 shows a top view of an orthotic device in the form of a liner with a textile base body 100, which can consist, for example, of a spacer fabric or a multi-layered textile. The base body 100 can also be made of a foam or an elastomer, such as polyurethane or silicone. It is also possible for the base body 100 to have a combination of elastomer and textile, for example, an inner or outer coating with a textile material and, on the opposite side, a design with an elastomer material.

[0062] On the outside of the base body 100, a base 300 with an opening 350 for receiving a connector 200 is arranged. Within the base 300, contact surfaces 360 are arranged, which can be connected to connector contacts (not shown) when the connector 200 is inserted into the base 300. Cables or conductors 270 lead from the connector 200 to an electrical or electronic component, for example, a control unit, evaluation unit, or the like. An electrode 600 is incorporated within the base body 300 at a distance from the base 300. The electrode 600 extends to the inside of the base body 100 (not shown) and receives, for example, biometric signals or, in particular, myoelectric signals. Conductors (not shown) are arranged within the base body 100, in particular embedded, to conduct myoelectric signals from the electrodes 600 to the contact surfaces 360 within the base 300.

[0063] Figure 15 shows a variant of the Figure 14 with two electrodes 600, the electrically conductive elements of the electrode 600 in contact with the skin surface not shown. The outer surface of the electrodes 600 is covered, for example, with a bonding film. The conductors 370 from the electrodes 600 to the two bases 300 are indicated by a dashed line. Contact surfaces 360 are arranged or formed within both bases 300, corresponding to contact surfaces 260 on the end face of the connector 270. When the connector 200 is joined to the base 300, the contact surfaces 360 are in contact with the connector contact surfaces 260. The signals received by the connector 200 are transmitted via conductors 270.

[0064] Figure 16Figure 1 shows an enlarged view of the base 300 on the outside of a base body 100. Above the connector 200, which is not inserted into the base 300, another electronic component, for example an amplifier 500, is arranged. The base 300 is fixed to the base body 100 by means of a bonding film as a connecting element 400, for example by gluing. In the immediate vicinity of the base 300 with the opening and the contact surfaces 360, the sensors or electrodes 600 are arranged in the form of embroidered, sewn-on, printed, or otherwise applied electrically conductive threads. The electrodes 600 can be easily produced by sewing electrically conductive threads through the base body 100. A conductor is led directly from the electrodes 600, which are myoelectric sensors, to the contact points or contact surfaces 360.On the outside, the electrically conductive threads of the electrodes 600 are covered by the bonding foil 400.

[0065] Figure 17 shows an electrode arrangement in bottom view with free electrodes 600 that can be placed on the skin on a bonding film 400.

[0066] Figure 18 Figure 1 shows the base 300 with a support edge 320 in its unassembled state. The support edge 320 can be connected to the base body 100, for example by sewing, gluing, or welding, optionally only partially. The connecting element 400, in the form of a bonding film, is placed over the base 300, which has an opening for receiving the connector, and then connected to the base body (not shown). A cutout 430 is formed within the connecting element 400 to allow free access to the base 300.

[0067] Figure 19shows the design of two electrode arrangements, as used, for example, in the Figure 15 The electrodes are visible from the outside and from the underside. Two electrodes 600, each with three receiving areas formed by electrically conductive threads and electrically insulated from one another, are formed on the underside of the base body 100. The electrodes 600 are connected to the bases arranged on the outside via electrical conductors that run along inside the base body 100, and then to the connector 200.

[0068] Figure 20 shows an orthopaedic device with a fully assembled contacting device with the base 300 and the plug 200 arranged therein, on the top of which an amplifier 500 is arranged.

[0069] Figure 21The figure shows in detail the electrodes 600 fixed by the bonding foils 400, which are in connection with the base 300 and the contact surfaces 360 formed within the base.

[0070] Figure 22 Figure 1 shows a connector element 200 with an amplifier 500 or other electronic device on its upper surface and a positive locking element 210 in the form of a projecting tongue, on the front edge of which 240 connector contact surfaces can be arranged. The connector element 200 has a substantially rectangular shape, with a shoulder of a base surface, so that the connector can make positive contact with the base via this shoulder.

[0071] Figure 23 shows the plug according to Figure 22In a bottom view, the conductors 270 are visible, as are the plug contact surfaces 260 arranged on the underside 250 of the tongue 210, which are set back slightly from the front edge 240. A step 290 is visible, extending transversely to the longitudinal extent of the plug element 200 and running essentially parallel to the front edge 240 of the tongue 210.

[0072] In the side view according to Figure 24 The recess 290 can be seen on the side of the positive locking element 210 opposite the front face 240. The plug contact surfaces 260 extend beyond the underside 250.

[0073] Figure 25Figure 1 shows a schematic sectional view of an embodiment of a connector element 200 with a projecting positive-locking element 210 in the form of a tongue, the end face 240 of which faces a rear end face 240'. The tongue 210 forms a shoulder 290 projecting towards the underside 250, and a shoulder is also formed on the upper side 250' to act as a stop against over-insertion into the base. Connector contact surfaces 260 can be arranged or formed on the end face 240; alternatively or additionally, such connector contact surfaces 260 can be arranged on the underside 250 of the connector element 200. A conductor 270 is indicated, which leads through the connector element 200 from the connector contact surfaces 260 in a rearward direction. The conductors 270 are fixed and encapsulated on the connector element 200 via a connecting element 400.

[0074] Figure 26The image shows a connector element 200 before it is connected, for example, to a strip or other conductors 270, which are not shown. For this purpose, the bonding foils 400 are placed on top of each other as connecting elements and, if necessary, welded together.

[0075] Figure 27Figure 3 shows an embodiment of a base in a top view (upper illustration) and a bottom view (lower illustration). A total of three openings 35 are formed within the base 300, which are essentially parallel to each other and have side edges 340, 330 oriented at right angles. For easier joining, the side edges 330, 340 are rounded in their transition areas. Within the base 300, contact surfaces 360 are arranged on the bottom of the base 300 and are accessible from above through the opening 350. These contact surfaces are connected to conductors (not shown). Each base 300 has a bearing edge 320 that can be welded, glued, or otherwise connected to the connecting element 400, which provides a larger bearing surface for being fixed to the base body 100.In principle, it is also possible to arrange the base 300 with the support edge 320 on the surface of the respective base bodies 100 without connecting elements 400.

[0076] The closed surface of the respective base can be seen in the illustration below, so that no dirt can penetrate into the opening 350 from below, i.e., from the inside of the orthotic device. Welds 390 or adhesive seams may be applied to the underside to facilitate a connection with the base body (not shown).

[0077] Figure 28Figure 1 shows a schematic representation of a joining process for the connector elements 600 with a base 300. In the illustrated embodiment, three bases 300 are arranged; however, one base is generally sufficient. In the left base 300, the contact surfaces 360 are arranged on an end face of a recess or opening of the undercut 310. In the middle base 300, they are arranged on the underside of the opening 350. In the right-hand representation, they are arranged on both the end face and the underside, so that contact is facilitated by pressure from above as well as by pressure in the insertion direction. In the left-hand representation of the base 300, a seal 700 is indicated, which serves to seal the connection in the joined state. The seal 700 can be arranged circumferentially around the opening 350.

[0078] To insert the connector element 200 into the base 300, a chamfer is formed at the transition from the end face 240 to the underside 250, so that the connector element 200 is inserted into the opening 350 at a slight angle and, as indicated by the arrow, is pushed and pivoted under the undercut 310 until the end face 240 presses against the front contact surfaces 360. The thickness of the connector element 200 in the area of ​​the tongue 210 is dimensioned to allow insertion into the base 300. The connector contact surfaces 260 can be spring-loaded and elastically designed to provide sufficient clamping force. The rear side wall 3400 of the opening 300 can be spring-loaded or deformed by elastic deformation during insertion so that, in the joined state, it exerts a forward pressure, thus holding the connector element 200 in place.It is also possible that the rear wall 3400 has an inclination that corresponds to an inclination of the rear end wall 240'. The inclination of the end wall 3400 is directed forwards, so that in addition to elastic preload, a positive locking of the plug element 200 in the base 300 can also occur.

[0079] Figure 29 Figure 1 shows the schematic structure of the contacting device with the plug element 200, which has a base element with plug contact surfaces 260 on its underside. The base element has a forward-projecting tongue 210 as a positive locking element. Electrical conductors 270 lead from the plug contact surfaces 260 to an amplifier 500, which is arranged on the top side of the plug element 200.

[0080] The base 300 has an undercut 310. Three contact surfaces 360 are arranged on the base 300. These surfaces correspond to and are positioned to the plug contact surfaces 260 of the plug element, so that, in the assembled state, there is a one-sided electrical contact. A total of three plug contact surfaces 260 and three contact surfaces 360 are provided; however, different numbers may be provided as needed. The opening 350, through which the contact surfaces 360 are accessible, is formed by the essentially perpendicular side surfaces 330 and 340. A support rim 320 extends around these surfaces to connect the base 300 to the connecting element 400 in the form of a bonding film. The conductors 370 are guided onto a second bonding film 400 and either connected to sensors or electrodes 600 there, or sewn on to form the electrodes 600.

[0081] In the lower representation of the Figure 29 The joining process for attaching the base 300 to the base body 100 is shown. The two bonding foils 400, shown in the middle illustration, are positioned on the top and bottom surfaces of the base body 100. The conductors 370 extend through a cutout in the base body 100. In the illustrated embodiment, the base 300 with the opening is located on the underside and is not visible. Subsequently, by applying pressure and thermal energy, as indicated by an iron, an adhesive bond is created, thus attaching the base 300 together with the electrodes 600.

[0082] Alternatively, a contact field can be created using electrically conductive threads, which is connected to the base body 100 via the bonding films. For example, conductive yarn can be applied to the base body 100 as electrodes via an MPU bonding film. Corresponding contact surfaces are formed on the bonding film that is connected to the base 300, and the respective bonding films are joined together for easy assembly.

Claims

1. Textile electrode with a flat base body (10) made of an electrically non-conductive material with an inner side (11) facing a skin surface when applied and an outer side (12) opposite the inner side (11), wherein at least one electrode (21, 22, 23) for receiving myoelectric signals is arranged or formed on the inner side (11), wherein the electrode (21, 22, 23) has at least one electrically conductive thread (30) or is formed therefrom, which forms a contact surface (40), wherein the contact surface (40) is formed on a bonding film (80) which protrudes beyond the outer circumference of the contact surface (40) and the electrode (21, 22, 23) or a textile cut-out (90) is inserted into a corresponding cut-out (13) in the base body (10) and is attached thereto via the bonding foil (80) and that the outside of the electrode (21, 22, 23) is covered by a further bonding foil (80).

2. Textile electrode according to claim 1, characterised in that the electrode (21, 22, 23) is embroidered, sewn, knitted, woven, glued, printed, bonded, welded, heat-sealed or formed as an integral part of the base body (10).

3. Textile electrode according to claim 1 or 2, characterised in that the electrode (21, 22, 23) is formed with a metallic upper thread and / or lower thread as electrically conductive thread (30).

4. Textile electrode according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the electrode (21, 22, 23) is formed with a weft and / or warp thread as an electrically conductive thread (30).

5. Textile electrode according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the electrode (21, 22, 23) is designed as a surface of interwoven electrically conductive thread (30).

6. Textile electrode according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the electrode (21, 22, 23) is formed with a warp and / or weft thread as an electrically conductive thread (30).

7. Textile electrode according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that several contact surfaces (40) are arranged next to each other and electrically separated from each other on the base body (10).

8. Textile electrode according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that an electrical conductor (50) is led from the contact surface (40) to an electrical or electronic component, a plug base (60) or a plug (70) on or in the base body (10).

9. Textile electrode according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the contact surface (40) is formed from a cut piece (45) which is attached to the base body (10).

10. Textile electrode according to claim 9, characterised in that the cut piece (45) is backed with a volume element.

11. Textile electrode according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the base body (10) is made of a spacer textile with an upper textile, a lower textile and support threads arranged between them, which fix the upper textile and the lower textile to each other and keep them spaced apart.

12. Textile electrode according to claim 1, characterised in that the contact surface (40) is formed on a textile cut piece (90) with a bonding film (80) arranged at least on one surface, which protrudes beyond the outer circumference of the textile cut piece (90) and is connected to the base body (10).

13. Textile electrode according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that an electrical conductor (50) leads from the contact surface (40) to an electrically conductive connection point (61) arranged on the outside (12) of the base body (10) or a textile cut piece (90).