PROGRAMMING A TRANSCUTANEOUS ELECTRICAL STIMULATION DEVICE

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to the technical field of transcutaneous electrostimulation devices. TECHNICAL BACKGROUND

[0002] The pain message is transmitted from the painful area to the brain via nociceptive fibers. There are two types of nociceptive fibers. The first type is the Aδ (A delta) fibers, which are involved in the rapid transmission of information to the brain, for example, in the case of immediate, intense, and very brief pain. The second type of fiber is the C fibers, which are the most numerous and are involved in the slow and long-lasting transmission of information, for example, in persistent and diffuse pain.

[0003] Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TES) provides pain relief using an electrical current of a specifically tailored intensity. This drug-free method is used daily in pain centers. TES reduces or eliminates pain in all painful muscle and joint tissues, but does not treat the cause of the pain. The electrical current is transmitted through electrodes placed on the surface of the skin. To facilitate the electrical circuit, a gel is generally used between the electrode and the skin. The electrical current creates electrical excitation of the nerves. Pain is alleviated through two actions. First, an immediate action achieved by reducing pain transmission to the spinal cord, in other words, a "portal effect" is achieved by the TENS device.Then there is a lasting action which is caused by the increase in the secretion of endorphins, natural pain-relieving hormones secreted by the brain.

[0004] Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TEN) is therefore a real alternative to painkillers that has been scientifically proven by the medical profession. It also offers immediate and / or long-lasting pain relief. Furthermore, it is a solution with very few side effects, unlike the adverse effects of the most common painkillers and anti-inflammatories, such as digestive and / or cardiovascular side effects.

[0005] However, adjusting a transcutaneous electrical stimulation device can be complex for the general public because the number of combinations of electrical current parameters is very large (theoretically infinite). In addition, only a limited number of these combinations offer optimal therapeutic effectiveness. In addition, the intensity of the pain may or may not require rapid relief, which will depend on the characteristics of the electrical neurostimulation. In addition, the type of pain (muscular, joint, etc.) and the location of the pain (stomach, head, etc.) also require specific parameters of the electrical current for greater effectiveness.

[0006] US 2014 / 249601 A1 describes methods and devices for providing non-invasive electrotherapy and electrical stimulation. US 2016 / 346543 A1 describes a system for transcutaneous electrical stimulation of nerve or muscle. US 2011 / 288610 A1 describes a mobile transcranial self-stimulation device and a method for controlling and regulating the device. US 2013 / 304176 A1 describes a bandage with an integrated, wireless, transcutaneous electrical neuron stimulation (TENS) device, and a method of using the same. US 2017 / 128722 A1 describes a portable device for treating dysmenorrhea in a patient.

[0007] Therefore, there is currently no simple method of adjusting a transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation device that can adapt to different pain situations. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0008] The present invention provides a method of adjusting a transcutaneous electrostimulation device as defined by claim 1.

[0009] Such a method improves the efficiency, use and safety of use of a transcutaneous electrical stimulation device. Indeed, the device comprises a memory in which a program is stored. This program is associated with at least three of the main parameters of the electrical current that will be sent to the pain area, and each of these parameters is associated with a value. These parameters and their respective values ​​define the conditions necessary to obtain a configuration of the electrical current that acts on the pain without user intervention (for example, manual configuration) being necessary.Furthermore, the method for adjusting a transcutaneous electrostimulation device according to the invention allows a user to use the device alone for parts of the body that are more difficult to access because calling up a program requires little or no action from the user; it is therefore possible for a user alone to adjust the device, even if the latter is placed on areas of the body that are less easily accessible, for example the shoulder.

[0010] According to various embodiments, any combination of at least one of the following features may be implemented: selecting a program further comprises the operation of selecting, by user action on a first selection member, a new value of at least one parameter of the electric current delivered by the electrode; the new selected value of the at least one parameter is an intensity value of an electric current; selecting a program further comprises the operation of sequentially selecting, by user action on a second selection member, a program from at least two programs stored in the memory; a selection operation further comprises emitting, by a light-emitting device, a light signal for each new selection; one of the operations of selecting a program further comprises emitting, by a sound-emitting device, a sound that uniquely identifies the selected program;the memory storing a first program for which the width of the pulses of the electric current delivered by the electrode is between 50 and 500 microseconds inclusive, preferably between 150 and 250 microseconds inclusive, the frequency of the pulses of the electric current delivered by the electrode is between 60 and 140 hertz inclusive, preferably between 80 and 120 hertz inclusive; the memory storing a second program for which the width of the pulses of the electric current is between 50 and 500 microseconds inclusive, preferably between 150 and 250 microseconds inclusive, the frequency of the pulses of the electric current is between 2 and 8 hertz inclusive, preferably between 4 and 6 hertz inclusive; the pulses of the electric current delivered by the electrode are generated continuously;the memory storing a third program for which the width of the pulses of the electric current is between 50 and 500 microseconds inclusive, preferably between 150 and 250 microseconds inclusive, the frequency of the pulses of the electric current delivered by the electrode comprises: a first pulse frequency of the electric current between 60 and 140 hertz inclusive, preferably between 80 and 120 hertz inclusive; and a second pulse frequency of the electric current between 2 and 8 hertz inclusive, preferably between 4 and 6 hertz inclusive; a first duration of generation of the pulses according to the first frequency and a second duration of generation of the pulses according to the second frequency, the first duration and the second duration being substantially equal;the memory storing a fourth program for which the frequency of the pulses of the electric current delivered by the electrode is between 1 and 150 hertz inclusive, the frequency of the pulses increasing and decreasing as a function of time in order to form a triangle signal; the width of the pulses of the electric current delivered by the electrode is between 50 and 500 microseconds inclusive, preferably between 50 and 250 microseconds inclusive, the width of the pulse decreasing for each increase in the frequency of the pulses and increasing for each decrease in the frequency of the pulses; the pulses of the electric current delivered by the electrode are generated in discontinuous cycles;the memory stores a fifth program which successively executes the first, second, third and fourth programs repeatedly, no electrical signal being emitted between each repetition so that each successive execution of the three programs has a duration of between 45 and 75 seconds, preferably substantially equal to 60 seconds; the voltage value of the electric current is between 3.5 and 25 volts, terminals included. ;

[0011] The present invention also provides a computer program as defined by claim 15, comprising program code instructions for executing the steps of the method according to the invention when said program is executed on a control unit of the transcutaneous electrostimulation device. The present invention also provides a transcutaneous electrostimulation device, as defined by claim 16.

[0012] The device may further include: the battery, the control unit and the memory are arranged in a housing comprising a bottom forming a surface; the electrode is arranged on a flexible material which is substantially in the same plane as the bottom of the housing. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0013] Embodiments of the invention will now be described by means of non-limiting examples and with reference to the figures, where: FIG. 1 is an example of a top view of a device according to the invention; FIG. 2 is an example of a bottom view of the device of the FIG. 1 ; FIG. 3 is an example of a side view of the device of the FIG. 1 ; FIG. 4 is a second example of a top view of a device according to the invention; FIG. 5 is a third example of a top view of a device according to the invention; FIG. 6 is a fourth example of a top view of a device according to the invention; FIG. 7 is a generic representation of the intensity versus time of current pulses; FIG. 8 is a representation of the intensity as a function of time of a first example of a current pulse program; FIG. 9 is a representation of the intensity versus time of a second example current program; FIG. 10 is a frequency versus time representation of a third example current pulse program; FIG. 11 is a representation of the intensity as a function of time of the example of the FIG 10 ; FIG. 12 is a frequency versus time representation of a fourth example current pulse program; FIG. 13 is a table showing an example of the current program parameters of the FIG. 12 ; FIG. 14 is a representation of the intensity as a function of time of the example of the FIG. 12 ; FIG. 15 is a schematic example of a device according to the invention; FIG. 16 is an example of a programming method according to the invention. DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0014] The present invention relates to the adjustment or programming of a transcutaneous electrostimulation device. Such a device makes it possible to immediately and / or permanently relieve pain which may be, but is not limited to, joint, muscular, etc., using an electric current of a suitable intensity and frequency.

[0015] The embodiments described below should not be considered as limiting with regard to the invention which is defined by the appended claims.

[0016] In reference to the FIG. 15 , a schematic example of a transcutaneous electrostimulation device 600 is discussed. The device comprises at least one electrode 610 which is an electrically conductive device which makes it possible to bring electrical energy to the skin of the part of the body on which it is placed. The electrical energy is typically an electric current of the direct current type. The direct current can be dispensed discontinuously. The electrode generally comprises a first electrically conductive face, and a second face which is insulating in order to prevent any electrical contact between this second face and another object or body or body part.

[0017] In some embodiments, the electrode may include a conductive gel that facilitates the transmission of electrical energy between the electrode and the skin, and prevents skin irritation at the skin. The conductive gel is therefore deposited on the conductive face of the electrode.

[0018] In some embodiments, the conductive gel may be an adhesive gel that is deposited on the electrode before the device is used. The adhesive gel may be placed between two sheets (or protective films) that hold and protect it before it is applied to the electrode. The two sheets may be made of plastic. When the gel is placed on the electrode, one of the two sheets may be removed, thereby releasing one of the faces of the adhesive gel that will be brought into contact with the electrode. The adhesive properties of the gel hold it on the electrode. The second sheet is then removed, so that the electrode has the adhesive gel on its conductive face. When the device is placed on the area of ​​the body to be treated, it can be held fixed to the body thanks to the adhesive properties of the adhesive gel.When the device is not in use, the adhesive gel that is still on the electrode can be protected by replacing one of the protective films over it.

[0019] The device 600 further comprises a battery 606. The battery is an electrochemical element in which chemical energy is converted into electrical energy. The battery is rechargeable, i.e. it is possible to store electrical energy therein again, for example by connecting the battery to an external source of electricity. The rechargeable battery can be of any technology such as, but is not limited to, lithium ion, lithium polymer, etc. The rechargeable battery is connected to the electrode, i.e. the electrical energy produced by the battery can be transmitted to the electrode.

[0020] The battery produces a direct current and therefore has a positive output terminal and a negative output terminal. The electrode 610 is therefore divided into two sub-electrodes: a positive electrode which is connected to the positive terminal of the battery and a negative electrode which is connected to the negative terminal of the battery. When the electrode is placed on the area of ​​skin to be treated, the electric current therefore passes from the negative electrode to the positive electrode.

[0021] Still referring to the FIG. 15 , the transcutaneous electrostimulation device 600 also comprises a control unit (CU) 608 of the battery. The control unit has the function of configuring (one can also say conforming) the electric current supplied by the battery so that it has the desired shape. The electrical energy produced by the battery is therefore transformed into an electrical signal which is transmitted to the electrode, and the latter delivers this electrical signal to the area of ​​the body on which the electrode (and therefore the device) is applied. The control unit is programmable, that is to say it can be configured to produce different electrical signals from the energy supplied by the battery. The control unit is therefore similar to a computing unit.

[0022] The transcutaneous electrical stimulation device 600 also includes a memory that is coupled with the control unit. In the example of the FIG. 15 , the control unit and the memory are coupled via a BUS 602, it being understood that they can be coupled (i.e. put in relation) by any means. The memory is a memory for storing the instructions and data necessary for the operation of a computer program. The memory may be, but is not limited to, non-volatile memory, including for example semiconductor memories such as EPROMs, EEPROMs, flash memory. All elements 602, 604, 606, 608 can be supplemented by or incorporated in ASICs (acronym for "application-specific integrated circuits").

[0023] The computer program may comprise instructions executable by the control unit 608. The instructions comprise means for causing the system to perform the method according to the invention. The program may be recordable on any data storage medium, including the memory 604. The program may, for example, be implemented in digital electronic circuits, or in computer hardware, firmware, software, or combinations thereof. The program may be implemented as an apparatus, for example, a product tangibly embedded in a machine-readable storage device for execution by a programmable processor. The steps of the method according to the invention may be executed by a programmable processor executing a program of instructions to perform functions of the method by operating on input data and generating an output.The control unit may be or may comprise the programmable processor. The processor may thus be programmed and coupled to receive data and instructions, to transmit data and instructions to a data storage system, to at least one input device and to at least one output device. The computer program may be implemented in a high-level procedural or object-oriented programming language, or in assembly or machine language if necessary. In all cases, the language may be a compiled or interpreted language. The program may be a complete installation program or an update program. Application of the program to the system in all cases results in instructions for executing the method.

[0024] In reference to the FIG. 16 , examples of the method of adjusting the transcutaneous electrical stimulation device are now discussed. The various examples can be combined with each other, the combinations not being limited to that shown in the FIG. 16 .

[0025] In embodiments according to the invention, the method may comprise an operation of turning on the transcutaneous electrical stimulation device. Turning on means that the control unit is able to receive instructions from a computer program stored in the memory, or an instruction from a user.

[0026] In embodiments according to the invention, the transcutaneous electrical stimulation device may comprise a powering member which in response to a user action (1300) powers the device (1302). The member may be a switch, for example a button, which the user presses, for example, for a predetermined duration.

[0027] In examples, the device may include a sound emitting device, for example a speaker or a buzzer. After the user presses the power-on member, a sound is emitted (1304), for example a beep, confirming that the device is powered on.

[0028] In examples, the device may include a light-emitting device, for example, a light-emitting diode (LED). After the user presses the power-on member, a light signal is emitted (1304). The light signal may be brief, for example, of the order of a few seconds, or conversely, the light signal may be constantly illuminated as long as the device is powered on.

[0029] Then, a program selection is made. The selection is made in the device's memory, i.e. the program is stored in the memory. Selection means that the program is identified in the memory, and that the control unit can access the program, for example for its execution. The program is a list of several parameters of the electric current to be delivered to the electrode (and therefore consequently to be delivered by the electrode) in which each parameter is associated with a value. The electric current delivered by the control unit to the electrode is a succession of current pulses, i.e. the current is in a variable state. The pulses are of the rectangular signal type. The variation of the current intensity over time produces the pulses, and a pulse is a short-term variation of a physical quantity of the current with a return to the initial state.Current parameters represent physical characteristics of the current which can vary.

[0030] One of these parameters is the voltage of the current pulses. Its value is expressed in volts. It is understood that it is equivalent to speaking of the intensity of the current pulses.

[0031] Another of these parameters is the duration of the electrical pulses. The pulse duration represents the time during which a voltage is emitted; for example, for a rectangular signal, it is the time during which the signal remains high. Its value can be expressed in seconds or in submultiples.

[0032] The third of these parameters is the frequency of the electric current pulses. Frequency represents the number of pulses that are emitted per second. Its value is expressed in Hertz.

[0033] It will be understood that these parameter values ​​are particularly suitable for characterizing rectangular type electrical pulses that can be used for transcutaneous electrostimulation. FIG. 7 illustrates a generic example of rectangular electrical pulses that can be programmed. The two pulses 70, 72 have a height that represents a current intensity. Their pulse widths are identical. The time T that elapses between two rising edges of two successive pulses is the periodicity between two pulses. In the example of the FIG. 7 , the pulses are unidirectional, that is, the current is polarized. In example programs that will be described below, the pulses can be bidirectional, that is, the current is depolarized and therefore the negative and positive poles reverse with each pulse.

[0034] In examples, the device memory may store a first program schematically represented on the FIG. 8 , in which the voltage value of the electric current is between 3.5 and 17 volts terminals inclusive. Note that on the FIG. 8 The intensity of the pulses is represented as a function of time. The pulses are bidirectional, so the voltage values ​​are given in absolute value. The width of the electric current pulses is between 50 and 500 microseconds inclusive, preferably between 150 and 250 microseconds inclusive. On the FIG. 8 , all pulses have a substantially equal width with a corresponding value of 180 microseconds. The frequency of the pulses is between 60 and 140 hertz inclusive, preferably between 80 and 120 hertz inclusive. On the FIG. 8 , the frequency is 100Hz. The first program is a high frequency simulation. It is suitable for continuously stimulating the Aα and Aβ nerve fibers to reduce the message transmitted by the Aδ and C pain nerve fibers. This first program therefore produces rapid, but short-lasting relief. In addition, the user can vary the value of the electrical current intensity until he finds a value that suits him, that is, a value to which the treated area responds, or in other words an intensity value for which the user is relieved.

[0035] In examples, the device memory may store a second program schematically represented on the FIG. 9 , in which the voltage value of the electric current is between 7 and 25 volts inclusive. The intensity of the pulses is represented as a function of time on the FIG. 9 . The pulses are also bidirectional. The width of the electric current pulses is between 50 and 500 microseconds inclusive, preferably between 150 and 250 microseconds inclusive. On the FIG. 9 , all pulses have a substantially equal width with a corresponding value of 200 microseconds. The frequency of the pulses is between 2 and 8 hertz inclusive, preferably between 4 and 6 hertz inclusive. On the FIG. 9 , the frequency is 4Hz. The second program is a low frequency simulation. It is suitable for stimulating the brain's secretion of endorphins, which provides delayed but lasting pain relief. The current voltage can be selected around the upper limit mentioned above, for example between 20 and 25 volts, to enhance the aforementioned effects.

[0036] In examples, the pulses of the first program and the second program are generated continuously. In other words, there are no cycles.

[0037] In examples, the device memory may store a third program schematically represented on the FIG. 10 . This third program comprises two successive phases: a first phase where the pulses are generated at high frequency and a second where the pulses are generated at low frequency. The frequency of the pulses of the first phase may be between 60 and 140 hertz inclusive, preferably between 80 and 120 hertz inclusive. The frequency of the pulses of the 2nd phase may be between 2 and 8 hertz inclusive, preferably between 4 and 6 hertz inclusive. FIG. 10 illustrates these two phases with a first phase during which the pulses are generated at a frequency of 100 Hz and a second phase during which the pulses are generated at a frequency of 4 hertz. The width of the electric current pulses can be between 50 and 500 microseconds inclusive, preferably between 130 and 220 microseconds inclusive. On the FIG. 11 , the pulses are represented with a width of 150 microseconds for the first phase and 200 microseconds for the second phase. In the example of the FIG. 11 , the duration of the first and second phases are identical, it being understood that they may be of different durations. The first and second phases form a cycle. In examples the cycles may be generated continuously. In examples, and preferably, the cycles are discontinuous with a pause between each cycle of a duration which may be for example between 1 and 3 seconds. In the example of the FIG. 11 , a cycle including the first and second phases has a duration of 6 seconds, and a pause of 1 second separates each generated cycle. The voltage value of the electric current can be between 3.5 and 24 volts terminals included. Note that on the FIG. 11 The intensity of the pulses is represented as a function of time and the pulses are bidirectional. The third program therefore resembles a combination of the first program (high frequency, low intensity) and the second program (low frequency, high intensity) which is generated discontinuously. The relief provided by the third program is immediate and long-lasting.

[0038] In examples, the device memory may store a fourth program schematically represented on the FIG. 12 . This involves generating successions of current pulse cycles where for each cycle the frequency varies as a function of time in order to form a triangle signal: the frequency increases gradually during the first half of the cycle and gradually decreases during the second half of the cycle to reach at the end of the cycle a frequency which is equal to the starting frequency of the first half of the cycle. In examples, the frequency of the electric current pulses is between 1 and 150 hertz inclusive. The width of the pulses decreases with each increase in the pulse frequency, and conversely increases with each decrease in the pulse frequency. In other words, the first half of the cycle sees the width of the pulses gradually decrease while the second half of the cycle sees the width of the pulses gradually increase. The voltage value of the electric current can be between 3.5 and 21 volts inclusive.There . FIG. 13 is an example of variations in pulse frequency and width for one half cycle. The same values ​​inverted can be used for the next half cycle. The width of the electric current pulses can be between 50 and 500 microseconds inclusive, preferably between 50 and 250 microseconds inclusive. In the example of the FIG. 13 , the pulse time of all pulses is equal to 0.5 seconds, and the sum of the pulse times for a half cycle is 7 seconds. A complete cycle is therefore 14 seconds. Note that on the FIG. 14 that the intensity of the pulses is represented as a function of time and that the pulses are bidirectional. The values ​​reported on the FIG. 14 correspond to those in the table of the FIG. 13 . We can thus observe on the FIG. 14 that the first pulse comprises two pulse widths of 200 microseconds over a pulse time of 0.5 seconds at a frequency of 2 Hertz, and the last pulse of the (rising) half-cycle comprises two pulses of 96 microseconds over a pulse time of 0.5 seconds and at a frequency of 100 Hertz. This last pulse of the rising half-cycle is also the first pulse of the falling half-cycle, and the first pulse of the rising half-cycle becomes the last pulse of the falling half-cycle. In examples, successive cycles may be generated continuously, i.e., without a pause between them. In examples, and preferably, the cycles are discontinuous with a pause between each cycle which may be, for example, between 1 and 3 seconds.The fourth program provides rapid and lasting pain relief accompanied by a massaging sensation, which is caused in particular by the gradual and simultaneous variation of the frequency and pulse width of the electrical signal.

[0039] In examples, the memory of the device may store a fifth program that successively executes the first, third, and fourth programs repeatedly. Between each repetition, no electrical signal is emitted so that each successive execution of the three programs lasts between 45 and 75 seconds, preferably around 60 seconds.

[0040] In examples, the memory of the device may store a sixth program that is a combination of the first program executed successively with a respective frequency substantially equal to 100 hertz, then 80 hertz and then 60 hertz, and the second program executed successively with a respective frequency substantially equal to 100 / 2 hertz, then 80 / 2 hertz and then 60 / 2 hertz. The width of the pulses may be between 80 and 120 microseconds, and preferably substantially equal to 100 microseconds. This program is particularly well suited for dysmenorrhea.

[0041] In examples, the memory of the device may store a seventh program similar to the first program, for which the pulse frequency is between 80 and 120 hertz, preferably substantially equal to 100 hertz and the pulse width is between 80 and 120 microseconds, preferably substantially equal to 100 microseconds. Dysmenorrhea may be treated using this seventh program. Headache pain may also be effectively reduced with this program.

[0042] In examples, the memory of the device may store an eighth program similar to the first program for which the pulse frequency is between 40 and 80 hertz, preferably substantially equal to 60 hertz and the pulse width is between 80 and 120 microseconds, preferably substantially equal to 100 microseconds. This eighth program is particularly suitable for preventing headaches, for example a migraine, when the first signs appear.

[0043] In examples, the duration of the aforementioned programs may be between 20 and 35 minutes, preferably the duration of a program is substantially equal to 30 minutes, or even 60 minutes for better efficiency while preserving the battery charge level.

[0044] In examples, the voltage value of the electric current for the programs is between 3.5 and 15 volts, terminals included. These values ​​have shown good stimulation efficiency while being adapted to the voltages that the rechargeable battery can deliver.

[0045] Back on the FIG. 16 , examples of selecting a program stored on memory are discussed. On the FIG. 16 , the selection is presented as being made after the device is switched on, it will be understood however that the selection can be made at any time, for example it is possible to select another program even while a program is running. Generally speaking, a necessary and sufficient condition for a program to be able to be selected is that the device is switched on.

[0046] In examples, the selection includes selecting a default program. For example, if the memory includes multiple programs, one of those programs is automatically selected to generate the electrical current delivered by the electrode. In one example, this default program is the first program previously discussed that provides rapid pain relief. The selection of the default program may be accompanied by providing a default value for each parameter of the default program; each value is included in the memory.

[0047] In examples, the user can select a program (1320), or change the default program if it was selected after powering up the device. On the FIG. 16 , the selection is made following the default selection of the first program (operation not shown). The selection is obtained by a user action on a selection member (1310), for example a button arranged on the device, which triggers the selection of another program included in the memory. When the memory comprises several programs, the programs can be selected sequentially, that is to say that each new user action on the selection member triggers the selection of a new program, and when all the programs have been proposed to the user, the default program is again proposed for a new user action on the selection member. This allows the user to continuously scroll through all the programs one by one.The last selected program is the last program presented to the user, either the program selected by default or the program selected following the last user action on the selection device.

[0048] In examples, the selection member allows a new program to be proposed, but also to propose a previously presented program. This allows the user to more quickly select the program he wishes to have, for example, in case he has missed it. In one example, the selection member comprises two selection members, for example a "plus" button and a "minus" button, where each member allows the programs to be scrolled in its own direction; for example, the "plus" button allows progress in an ordered list of programs in one direction (for example, in an ascending direction) while the "minus" button allows progress in the list in an inverse direction.

[0049] In examples, the selection of a program may be accompanied by a sound that uniquely identifies the selected program. It is understood that the device then comprises a sound emitting device, which may be, but is not limited to, a loudspeaker, a buzzer, etc. The identification of the selected program may be achieved, for example, using a number of beeps where each number is associated with a single program; for example, the first program with one beep, the second with two beeps, and so on.

[0050] In examples, the selection may be accompanied by a light signal emitted by the light emitting device.

[0051] In examples, the selection may be accompanied (1322) by a sound that uniquely identifies the selected program, as previously selected, or by a sound that has the sole purpose of informing that the selection is confirmed.

[0052] Then, once the selection is made, the control unit is configured so that the electrical current delivered by the electrode corresponds to the values ​​of the parameters of the selected program. In other words, the control unit is configured to perform the electrical stimulation associated with the program. This configuration is therefore a programming (or reprogramming) of the device.

[0053] In examples, the selection may be followed by a confirmation of the selection. The confirmation of the selection allows the user to confirm to the device that they wish the selected program to be executed. In one example, this may be achieved with a particular user action on the selection member.

[0054] In examples, confirmation of the selection may be implicit with the start of stimulation (and therefore once the control unit has been configured), for example by performing a user action on the selection member (1330).

[0055] In examples, the program selection may include a user action to select (1340) a new value of a parameter of the selected program. The selection of this parameter value may be made via a selection member.

[0056] In examples, the device used to select this parameter value may be the same as that used to select the program. In one example, the selection device comprises two buttons, a "plus" button and a "minus" button. Each action on the "plus" button increases the value, and conversely each user action on the "minus" button decreases the value of the parameter (1342). In order to be able to distinguish between a program selection and a modification of a parameter value when the same selection device is used, the duration of the user action on the device may be used: a long action (for example, pressing the button for more than three seconds) will be interpreted by the device as a program selection, and conversely a short action (for example, pressing the button for less than three seconds) will be interpreted by the device as a parameter value selection.

[0057] In examples, the selection of a parameter value may be accompanied by a sound and / or a light signal to assist the user in the selection.

[0058] For example, the range of parameter values ​​that can be selected may be limited. When the user wishes to move outside this range of values, which is not possible, the system can inform the user using a sound and / or a light signal.

[0059] In examples, the newly selected value is an electrical current intensity value. This allows the user to increase the effect of the electrostimulation based on how they feel about the electrical stimulation and the pain relief they achieve.

[0060] It is understood that the choice of the intensity value could be made before the start of the stimulation, for example, the user knows which intensity suits him.

[0061] In examples, when the battery is not sufficiently charged to run a complete program, the device may notify the user and / or go into safety mode (the program cannot be run) or run until the battery is empty.

[0062] In examples, when the battery is not sufficiently charged to carry out a complete program (for its entire duration), it is possible to operate the device by connecting the rechargeable battery to an external power source. The device can then operate on mains power.

[0063] In reference to the FIG. 1 à FIG. 6 , examples of devices are now discussed. These figures are photographs of devices. On the FIG. 1 , the device according to the invention comprises a housing in which the battery, the control unit and the memory are arranged. The housing makes it possible to protect them from external elements which could damage them (dust, water, etc.). The housing can therefore be waterproof. The housing can comprise a power-on and / or power-off member 120. The housing can also comprise a first member for selecting a program and / or a second member for selecting a parameter value. In the example of the FIG. 1 , the first and second organs are merged and identical: they are a "plus" button 122a and a "minus" button 122b. The housing of this example includes an LED 124 acting as a light indicator and a buzzer (not shown). The housing includes two electrodes, one positive and one negative, which are not directly visible with the top view; more precisely, the second (insulating) face of the electrode 10a, 10b is visible. The two electrodes are connected and secured to the housing, thus forming a compact device. Two notches 14a and 14b increase the flexibility of the device, thus allowing it to be placed on curved parts of the body.

[0064] The housing may be made of a solid and protective polymer material, for example ABS (Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) plastic. The housing 12 and the electrodes 10a, 10b may be covered on this face with a flexible and electrically insulating material of the silicone type. The electrodes further comprise in this example tabs 16a, 16b which facilitate the removal of the device which is held on the skin for example using an adhesive gel.

[0065] There FIG. 2 is a bottom view of the same device shown in the FIG. 1 . The housing 12 comprises a bottom which forms a surface, for example a plane. This surface is preferably merged with the surface of the electrodes 10a, 10b in order to improve the placement of the device on the area to be treated. The electrode is therefore substantially in the same plane as the bottom of the housing. The electrically conductive surfaces 16a, 16b of the electrode are accessible. These surfaces can accommodate the gel, for example the adhesive gel.

[0066] There FIG. 3 is a side view of the transcutaneous electrical stimulation device shown in the FIG. 1 et FIG. 2 . The housing 12 includes an opening 126 which provides access to an interface for electrically connecting the battery to an external electricity source, for example to recharge the battery. The interface can be of any type. In one example, the interface is a USB interface and it can be connected to an electrical source using a USB 30 cable.

[0067] The device shown on the FIGs. 1 à 3 includes large electrodes that can cover relatively flat parts of the body, for example the back or a thigh.

[0068] There FIG. 4 is another example of a device similar to that of the FIGs. 1 à 3 , except that the electrodes 10a, 10b have a substantially different shape which is adapted to be placed on the forehead in order to relieve headaches. Thus the electrodes are narrower and longer to cover the forehead. Only one tab is present in this example. The electrodes each include an opening 40a, 40b facilitating the attachment of a headband (not shown) in order to hold the device against the patient's forehead.

[0069] There FIG. 5 is another example of a device similar to that of the FIGs. 1 à 3 , except that the electrodes 10a, 10b have a substantially different shape which is adapted to be placed on the stomach in order to relieve dysmenorrhea. In particular, their shape is adapted to cover the organs responsible for the pain when the device is placed on the stomach.

[0070] There FIG. 6 is another example of a device similar to that of the FIGs. 1 à 3, except that the positive electrode 16a (or conversely negative 16b) is no longer integral with the housing. The device comprises two elements, a first element comprising the housing and the positive (or conversely negative) electrode, and a second element comprising the negative (or conversely negative) electrode. The second element 10a is connected to the housing via an electrically conductive wire, for example the cable 60. The two elements have substantially a half-disc shape which is particularly suitable for being placed around a joint, for example a knee. This improves the effectiveness of the electrostimulation.

[0071] In examples, the housing may further comprise wireless communication means for configuring the control unit, for example performing the operation of selecting a program and / or the operation of selecting a parameter value. The configuration may for example be carried out with the Bluetooth ©< protocol between an application for example executed by a smartphone and the control unit.

Claims

1. A method of adjusting a transcutaneous electrical stimulation device (600), the device comprising: - at least one electrode (610), - a rechargeable battery (606) connected to the electrode (610), - a memory (604) on which a plurality of programs are stored, the stored programs including a default program, - a control unit (608) coupled to the memory (604), the control unit (608) being able to configure an electric current supplied by the battery (606) and delivered by the electrode (610), the method comprising the steps consisting of: - selecting (1320), in the memory (604), a program associated with a plurality of parameters of the electric current delivered by the electrode (610), each parameter being associated with a value, the program comprising at least as parameters: - a voltage of the pulses of the electric current, - a duration of the pulses of the electric current, - a frequency of the pulses of the electric current, - configuring the control unit (608) so that the electric current delivered by the electrode (610) corresponds to the parameter values of the selected program, wherein selecting a program comprises the operations consisting of: - selecting the default program when powering up the device: - providing a default value, stored in the memory (604), associated with each parameter of the selected default program.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein selecting a program further comprises the operation consisting of: - selecting, by an action performed by a user on a first selector member, a new value of at least one parameter of the electric current delivered by the electrode.

3. The method according to claim 2, wherein the new selected value of the at least one parameter is a value of the intensity of an electric current.

4. The method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein selecting a program further comprises the operation consisting of: - sequentially selecting, by an action performed by a user on a second selector member, a program amongst at least two programs stored in the memory.

5. The method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein a selection operation further comprises: - emitting, by means of a light emitting device, a light signal for each new selection.

6. The method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein one of the operations of selecting a program further comprises: - emitting, by means of a sound emitting device, a sound that uniquely identifies the selected program.

7. The method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the memory stores a first program for which: - the width of the pulses of the electric current delivered by the electrode is comprised between 50 and 500 microseconds inclusive, preferably between 150 and 250 microseconds inclusive, - the frequency of the pulses of the electric current delivered by the electrode is comprised between 60 and 140 hertz inclusive, preferably between 80 and 120 hertz inclusive.

8. The method according to any of the preceding claims, the memory storing a second program for which: - the width of the pulses of the electric current is comprised between 50 and 500 microseconds inclusive, preferably between 150 and 250 microseconds inclusive, - the frequency of the pulses of the electric current is comprised between 2 and 8 hertz inclusive, preferably between 4 and 6 hertz inclusive.

9. The method according to any of claims 7 or 8, wherein the pulses of the electric current delivered by the electrode are generated continuously.

10. The method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the memory stores a third program for which: - the width of the pulses of the electric current is comprised between 50 and 500 microseconds inclusive, preferably between 150 and 250 microseconds inclusive, - the frequency of the pulses of the electric current delivered by the electrode comprises: - a first frequency of a pulse of the electric current comprised between 60 and 140 hertz inclusive, preferably between 80 and 120 hertz inclusive, and - a second frequency of a pulse of the electric current comprised between 2 and 8 hertz inclusive, preferably between 4 and 6 hertz inclusive, - a first duration of generation of pulses at the first frequency and a second duration of generation of pulses at the second frequency, the first duration and the second duration being substantially equal.

11. The method according to any of the preceding claims, the memory storing a fourth program for which: - the frequency of the pulses of the electric current delivered by the electrode is comprised between 1 and 150 hertz inclusive, the frequency of the pulses increasing and decreasing as a function of time in order to form a triangular signal, - the width of the pulses of the electric current delivered by the electrode is comprised between 50 and 500 microseconds inclusive, preferably between 50 and 250 microseconds inclusive, the width of the pulse decreasing for each increase in the frequency of the pulses and increasing for each decrease in the frequency of the pulses.

12. The method according to any of claims 10 or 11, wherein the pulses of the electric current delivered by the electrode are generated in discontinuous cycles.

13. The method according to the combination of claims 7 to 12, wherein the memory stores a fifth program which successively executes the first, second, third and fourth programs repeatedly, no electrical signal being emitted between each repetition so that each successive execution of the three programs has a duration comprised between 45 and 75 seconds, preferably substantially equal to 60 seconds.

14. The method according to any of claims 7 to 13, wherein the voltage value of the electric current is between comprised 3.5 and 25 volts, inclusive.

15. A computer program product comprising program code instructions for executing the steps of the method according to any of claims 1 to 14, wherein said program is executed on a control unit of the transcutaneous electrical stimulation device.

16. A transcutaneous electrical stimulation device (600), comprising: - at least one electrode (610), - a rechargeable battery (606) connected to the electrode, - a memory (604) on which a plurality of programs is stored, the stored programs including a default program, - a control unit (608) coupled to the memory (604), the control unit (608) being suitable for configuring an electrical current supplied by the battery (606) and delivered by the electrode (610), the memory (604) comprising program code instructions of the program according to claim 15.

17. The device according to claim 16, wherein: - the battery (606), the control unit (608) and the memory (604) are arranged in a case having a bottom forming a surface, - the electrode (610) is arranged on a flexible material that is substantially in the same plane as the bottom of the case.