Personalized electrodes

Abstract

An electrode (130) for use during delivery of Tumor Treating Fields (TTFields) is disclosed that contains a surface with a design. The design can contain, e.g., visual imagery, photos, illustrations, textures, and active elements such as Light-Emitting Diodes (LEDs) and buttons. Advantages in terms of heat dissipation and compliance with a treatment regime are disclosed.

Description

PERSONALIZED ELECTRODESTechnical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to technology for delivering Tumor Treating Fields (TTFields) treatment to patients suffering from cancerous tumors.Background

[0002] TTFields systems are typically used to treat tumors in human patients. The main commercial indication at the time of writing is brain tumors, or glioblastomas (also metastases of different cancer cell types), but other indications are being explored such as lung cancer where there is supporting clinical evidence, and pre-clinical evidence is available for several additional types of cancer. The treatment technique as commonly applied requires attaching treatment arrays (electrodes), typically four (arranged as two pairs), to the skin e.g., on the head, torso, or abdomen, each containing a number of electrode elements. The electrode elements are often electrically insulated, such that the coupling to the tissue is capacitive. A generator is used to generate a TTFields signal (153), that is used to subject the tissue, with the embedded tumor, to electrical fields that conventionally contain oscillations at 150 kHz (e.g., for mesothelioma or lung cancer) or 200 kHz (e.g., glioblastoma) and have a field strength of at least 1 V / cm (measured as peak voltage, or RMS). Typical applied currents can be up to or including 2 A peak-to-peak (0.7 A rms), or up to and including 4 A peak-to-peak (1.4 A rms) depending on the location of the electrodes on the body, but other current levels are possible, e.g., more than 4 A. Power output of up to 35 W, or up to 50 W, or between 20 to 40 W, are known for TTFields systems. The electrodes typically dissipate considerable heat due to, e.g., the significant power output and the insulation layer on the electrodes. The treatment typically serves to extend overall survival and progression free survival.

[0003] A generator can in some embodiments be connected to an electrode through a detachable electrical connector, which may be part of the electrode or located elsewhere along the path between the generator and the electrode.

[0004] High compliance with the treatment regime is associated with successful treatment. The therapy should preferably be administered continuously (at least 18 hours a day) for months, or, e.g., up to two years. Electrode arrays are typically changed about two times per week, often with the assistance of a caretaker.

[0005] Examples of TTFields electrodes are disclosed in e.g., US7715921B2 and US8715203B2.

[0006] When applying TTFields to the head, e.g., for brain tumor treatment, a patient typically has to shave off most or all of the hair on the head, and the attached electrodes feature prominently on the head.

[0007] In spite of the name "Tumor Treating Fields / ' TTFields systems are known to have applications other than direct tumor therapy, such as but not limited to modulating the permeability of the blood- brain-barrier, treating an autoimmune disease, or treating bacteria.Summary of the Invention

[0008] According to one embodiment, an electrode is provided for application of an electrical field to a subject's body, having an electrical subassembly and a surface with a design, where the design provides visual and / or tactile stimulation, and where the electrode can be configured to deliver between 0 A and 4 A of current to a subject's body.

[0009] According to some embodiments, an electrical subassembly can deliver at least 0.7 A.

[0010] According to some embodiments, an electrode can be used to direct electric fields to a target area in a subject's body, where the target area contains cancerous cells.

[0011] According to some embodiments, the electrode covers an area of at least 25 cm2on the subject's skin.

[0012] According to some embodiments, the schedule of application in which the electrode is used is at least one month long.

[0013] According to some embodiments, the electrode can be configured to deliver at least 1 V / cm to a target area in a subject's head, during which a surface with a design on the electrode is visible.

[0014] According to some embodiments, the electrode can be configured to deliver at least 1 V / cm to a target area in a subject's torso and / or abdomen.

[0015] According to some embodiments, the electrode contains one or more electrode elements, where the electrode elements are electrically insulated from the subject's body.

[0016] According to some embodiments, the electrode has a cover that at least partially covers the electrical subassembly, where the cover has a surface with a design such that it is covered with a design at least partially.

[0017] According to some embodiments, the electrode is replaced repeatedly during the schedule of application.

[0018] According to some embodiments, the electrode contains one or more light emitting diodes.

[0019] According to one embodiment, a cover that can be applied to an electrode has a surface with a design.

[0020] According to one embodiment, a set of at least two electrodes that can be used simultaneously on a subject's body, where some or all of the electrodes have surfaces with a design.

[0021] According to one embodiment, a method of manufacturing an electrode to be used on a subject, includes the steps of applying a design to a surface with a design by means of an automated process, where the design is chosen by the subject.

[0022] A method of manufacturing a set of electrodes, where the electrodes have surfaces with a design, which includes the steps of creating a location map for positioning the electrodes on a subject's body during treatment, creating one or more designs for the electrodes indicated by the map, and manufacturing the one or more designs on a cover or electrode.Brief Description of the Drawings

[0023] Fig. 1 is an illustration, in accordance with one embodiment, of an electrode (130) with a surface with a design (402), where the design (401) is bilaterally symmetric with a similar design on the other side of the subject's head (not shown), together forming a visual impression of a pair of hands holding the head of the subject. A few of the electrode elements (184) are visible.

[0024] Fig. 2 is an illustration, in accordance with one embodiment, of an electrode (130) with a design (401) with an image (416) of a flower. Features of an underlying electrical subassembly (411) are visible.

[0025] Fig. 3 is an illustration, in accordance with one embodiment, of a first electrode (130a) and a second electrode (130b), where the electrodes have a similar design (401), and the electrodes (130) contain electrode elements (184) that act as features of an underlying electrical subassembly (411) that are masked in part by the design (401). The first electrode (130a) contains a button (417).

[0026] Fig. 4 is an illustration, in accordance with one embodiment, of a system (100) that is used to deliver TTFields stimulation to a clinical target volume (CTV) (182) in tissue (413) in a subject's body, the system including four electrodes (130) attached to a signal generator (102), by means of electrical cables (151) and detachable electrical connectors (412). The TTFields signal (153) which is carried in the electrical cable (151) is indicated.

[0027] Fig. 5 is an illustration, in accordance with one embodiment, of an electrode (130) carrying a design (401) that comprises an image (416) reproduced from a child's drawing and a message (415) as reproduced from a written greeting from a child.

[0028] Fig. 6 is an illustration, in accordance with one embodiment, of two electrodes (130a, 130b), wherein each contains a design (401) comprising text containing a respective verse ("Verse 1" or "Verse 2") from a literary work, wherein the electrodes (130a, 130b) can be used at the same time or one after another.

[0029] Fig. 7 is an illustration, in accordance with one embodiment, of an electrode (130) with a surface with a design (402) with a design (401) depicting a snake, wherein two light-emitting diodes (407) are located on the head of the snake where the eyes would be expected.

[0030] Fig. 8 is an illustration, in accordance with one embodiment, of an electrode mounted on the chest of a subject, where the electrode (130) contains a set of LEDs (407) forming a circular pattern.

[0031] Fig. 9 is an illustration, in accordance with one embodiment, of several sets of electrodes (409a, 409b, 409c ...) that are to be applied in sequence as they are replaced every two or three days, whereinthe sets of electrodes (409) each contains four electrodes (130a, 130b, 130c, and 130d), some or all of which carry a design (401), and have a visual theme that persists over time.

[0032] Fig. 10 is an illustration, in accordance with one embodiment, of an electrode (130) structure in cross section, comprising a surface with a design (402) with a design (401), a cover (404) (which is optional in some embodiments), an electrical subassembly (403), a gel (405) (optional in some embodiments), and a subject's skin (414).

[0033] Fig. 11 is a flowchart, in accordance with one embodiment, illustrating a method (470) for assembling an electrode at the point of care, by affixing a cover to an electrode prior to removing it from a peelable backing.

[0034] Fig. 12 is a flowchart, in accordance with one embodiment, illustrating a method (480) for assembling an electrode at the point of care, by affixing a cover to an electrode after the electrode has been attached to the subject's skin.

[0035] Fig. 13 is a flowchart, in accordance with one embodiment, illustrating a method (490) of delivering electrodes according to a schedule of application wherein the electrodes have designs.

[0036] Like reference symbols in the various drawings indicate like elements.Detailed Description of Preferred Embodiments

[0037] The various embodiments of the present invention relate to electrodes that are used to deliver TTFields. More particularly, the electrodes (130), systems (100), sets of electrodes (409), electrode kits (410) and methods of the different embodiments are directed to electrodes which feature surfaces with design (402), for example images (416), textures or other designs and design elements. Some embodiments of these electrodes facilitate patient compliance with a schedule of application (e.g., a treatment regime), for example by being aesthetically pleasing, and / or facilitate wearing the electrodes without covering items, such as pieces of clothing, or other items that could be detrimental to the desired heat dissipation. Any improved ventilation increases the power output potential of the electrodes, which can improve treatment results, and also increase comfort due to cooler operation, which can improve compliance, which in turn also can be associated with better treatment outcomes. In some embodiments, electrodes can be covered with items made from e.g., lighter, thinner fabrics such that heat is more easily dissipated. (As a design might reduce any perceived stigma of any electrode being visible through e.g., thinner fabrics).

[0038] TTFields products are preferably used at least 18 hours per day, and they are used in an ambulatory setting as the user lives an everyday life ('subjects', 'wearers', 'users' and 'patients' are generally used herein to refer to users of TTFields systems), and higher compliance with the treatment regime has been associated with better outcomes in terms of patient survival. Electrodes and systems that are conducive to high compliance with TTields treatment are therefore desirable.

[0039] TTFields systems are typically relatively high powered compared to many other types of stimulating electrodes, often rated for up to 35 W, 50 W or 80 W. High power output is advantageous for treatment outcomes in arresting cancer cell division or killing cancer cells, and embodiments treating a larger part of a patient's body can also draw more power. Some embodiments can therefore be configured for power output between 0 W and 100 W, or more. Higher field strengths, which can be expected to lead to higher power levels, have in experiments been associated with better performance in preventing cancerous cell growth, suggesting that they are desirable. TTFields system that treat multiple organs at the same time, by e.g., applying fields to the head and the torso at the same time, can in some embodiments draw more power, for example, if fields are applied to each organ as if it were the only part of the body treated. In some embodiments, this can lead to more heat dissipated under, e.g., a piece of clothing and an increased concentration of heat in an area.

[0040] The insulation of typical capacitive TTFields electrodes, with its associated electrical impedance and voltage drop, tends to generate significant heat when alternating electric fields are delivered to the patient's tissues through the electrodes. This heat from the electrodes is a key constraint on TTFields systems, and electrode temperatures are typically monitored with one or more temperature sensors, and the output power regulated so as not to exceed safe and desirable temperatures. (Capacitive electrodes can be limited to, e.g., displacement currents, and thus in some embodiments deliver less current than conductive electrodes that are not limited in this fashion, and higher current can be associated with higher resistive losses that generate heat, but the insulation in capacitive electrodes causes heat losses in the electrodes themselves that conductive electrodes, that lack the insulation, do not).

[0041] Electrically isolated electrodes, also referred to as capacitive or insulated electrodes, are also used for various applications such as sensing electroencephalogram (EEG), electrocardiogram (ECG) and other similar signals, or where lower-strength currents or electric fields are applied to a subject, where no significant power is delivered and thus heat dissipation generally not being a problem. The heat generation issues discussed herein are particularly prominent in applications where higher power is delivered to a subject's tissue, such that the heat dissipation in, e.g., the electrode insulation is higher.

[0042] Patients wearing TTFields systems are known to be concerned about their physical appearance while undergoing treatment (Onken, Patient Reported Outcome (PRO) Among High-Grade Glioma Patients Receiving TTFields Treatment, 2019). Commonly available TTFields electrodes at the time of writing are neutral in design, either white (original color) or tan (more recently introduced) so as to be similar to commonly occurring natural skin color. The practice in the field of TTFields electrodes has thus been to move in a direction opposite to one of adding visual insignia, etc., to the electrodes. By February 2024, and 17 years following initial CE mark approval in 2007, a total of more than 30000 patients had received TTFields treatment. Electrodes are typically large, with some examples measuring ca 10 cm by12 cm for head application. Many patients cover their electrodes with hats, wigs, cloth, articles of clothing, or similar, in order to hide the equipment and reduce the prominent appearance and visibility of the electrodes to others while the patient is living its life while undergoing treatment or a schedule of application. The user or subject may be concerned with self-perception, the perception of family, including any romantic interest, any spouse and / or any children, and other people in general (e.g., coworkers, friends, general public). The use of such covering items can reduce any cooling off through heat dissipation into ambient air from the electrodes, which in turn can reduce the maximum power that can be delivered to the tumor in the patient's tissues. Electrodes in some embodiments can thus potentially increase the maximum power that can be delivered, which would be expected to be associated with improved outcomes (Visible electrodes are typically well exposed to ambient air for ventilating any dissipated heat). Electrodes can be configured to be used by an adult subject, or a child. Electrodes for children can be characterized inter alia in that they can have a smaller surface area on the skin, and that, given that electrode pairs are likely to have a narrower spacing between them across a body part, a lower electrical voltage can be applied to achieve the same electrical field strength in the relevant tissues.

[0043] Some embodiments serve to mask the structure of an electrical subassembly (403) in an electrode (130) which would perhaps protrude otherwise such that it directly or indirectly produces a visible pattern as the electrode (130) is worn.

[0044] U.S. Patent Application 2004 / 0143301-Al "Skin electrodes with design thereon" (Hunt '301), discloses electrodes for use with 'orthopedic devices', including for 'electrotherapy'. A later application from the same family, U.S. Patent Application 2005 / 0283206-Al (Hunt '206), discloses methods of using electrodes with 'orthopedic devices', including with 'electrotherapy'. Both applications were later abandoned. Both Hunt applications suggest that the stimulation be one of muscle stimulation, electrotherapy, inferential stimulation, or EMG (biofeedback). There is no hint at treating cancerous tissue in Hunt '301 or Hunt '206, and there is further no hint of e.g., high power or high frequency (the impedance of capacitive electrodes being in part frequency dependent) electrodes, using insulated electrodes, or using the invention in an ambulatory setting, using large electrodes, or using the invention where electrodes must be changed regularly and for extended periods of time. The Hunt applications only disclose a conductive material or conductive material layer, i.e., no structure to the electrical subassembly (and so no unevenness that might affect the appearance of an electrode, e.g., through a cover or similar). Rather, it is suggested that the invention of Hunt be used for 'entertainment' and 'visual stimulation' of the patient, for the purpose of diverting a patient's attention away during the orthopedic procedure. As only low-power applications are mentioned in any of the Hunt prior art, the thermal advantages associated with having a design on the electrode are not in any way suggested.

[0045] Visual imagery worn on the body is a common means of self-expression, for emotional support (especially in stressful situations, e.g., due to disease) and personalization, as illustrated by body art such as, e.g., tattoos, or, e.g., decorations commonly applied to orthopedic gypsum casts (which are kept on for, e.g., weeks), where messages from friends and family are particularly common. Some articles of clothing, hats, etc., can carry similar artifacts. Imagery is also known to be applied to, e.g., regular plasters for wound care.

[0046] Similar designs can be applied to TTFields electrodes. A design (401) on an electrode (130) might contain and / or combine any number of design elements such as an image (416), photo, drawing, illustration, texture, fabric, message, text, symbol (e.g., alphanumeric, Unicode, or other symbols), which may or may not have been edited, amended, cropped, transformed, merged and / or distorted together to form a visual or design whole. Some embodiments might contain active design elements such as light emitting diodes (LEDs) for additional effect. Buttons for user input can also be active design elements. Such active design elements can in some embodiments, in part or in whole, be part of an electrical subassembly (403).

[0047] When applying designs to TTFields electrodes (130), it should be appreciated that with a typical large area, high power TTFields electrode can be understood as an area for self-expression, providing visual stimulation that is wider than in the narrow sense that would be the case with, e.g., device manufacturer's logos, identifying markers, and similar.

[0048] For a user, designs can be valuable both if they are visible when worn, so that, e.g., other people can see the design when used, and when they are typically non-visible such as when worn covered by a piece of clothing or similar, and perhaps of importance to a user even when not visible.

[0049] As TTFields electrodes are typically replaced every two days or so over months or years, a patient would go through a lot of electrodes over time, e.g., perhaps 100 electrode replacement cycles in a year. In some embodiments, electrodes are changed every day, every other day, every third day, every fourth day, every fifth day, every sixth day, every week, every 10 days, every two weeks, or every month, or at some interval between one day and a month, or changed at different intervals over time, e.g., as suits the patient or a schedule of applications. This means that over the duration of the patient's journey, there may not be practical ways to hand-draw or otherwise apply art to many of these electrodes. A process at least in part automated can provide and manufacture suitable designs. Designs using active elements such as LEDs or buttons may not be practical for a user to apply on their own.

[0050] A subject might want to have the same design (401) appear on electrodes as they are replaced, or have new designs (401) after a regular electrode (130) change. Several electrode designs (401) may follow a design theme that logically or aesthetically binds them together. One such design theme can be, for example, a countdown clock that contains shows number of electrode changes expected to remain during the schedule of application. (A schedule of application can in some embodimentscorrespond to a course of treatment, e.g., for a patient suffering from a disease). A design theme can also be, e.g., text fragments (e.g., verses) across electrodes that together form a coherent whole, such as recognizable sentence, meme, or part of a known literary or fictional work.

[0051] In some embodiments the design (401) can contain a photograph. Photographs can in some embodiments be manipulated or edited, e.g., by changing colors, cropping, transforming, amending, merging, distorting, and / or other means.

[0052] In some embodiments the design (401) can contain an illustration. Illustrations can be handdrawn, perhaps then scanned, or otherwise captured into a computer medium for use in manufacturing or reproduction, or generated with the help of a computer or similar means.

[0053] In some embodiments the design (401) can contain written text, symbols, or other indicia which can be of various appearances (e.g., fonts, sizes, styles, colors, etc.).

[0054] In some embodiments the design (401) can contain greetings.

[0055] In some embodiments the design (401) can contain names. Names can e.g., refer to family, friends, the patient, a caregiver, an inspirational figure, a name given to a tumor or disease, a name given to a treatment apparatus, perhaps referring to its entirety or a part of the apparatus. In some embodiments, a name is contained in a message (415). In some embodiments, names or other indicia are located to correspond to a feature of an underlying electrical subassembly (411), such as an electrode element, an electrical conductor, or a structural element.

[0056] In some embodiments the design (401) can contain spaces where personal, religious, spiritual, supportive, or inspirational messages (415) can be displayed.

[0057] In some embodiments the design (401) can contain a reference to a subject's anatomy, e.g., for a visual effect or to serve as a fiduciary point, such as a birthmark, joint, or other body part or feature.

[0058] In some embodiments, the design (401) can contain one or more buttons (417) that provide a user interface with a means of the user to provide an input signal to an electrode (130) or system (100). In some embodiments, a button is comprised in an electrical subassembly (403) or in a surface with a design (402). In some embodiments, a button is of the capacitive type, and in some embodiments a button might be of the resistive type. In some embodiments, an electrode contains between 1 and 20 buttons. In some embodiments, a button is roughly circular or roughly square, perhaps with rounded corners. In some embodiments, a button is of the slider type where different levels of an input signal can be inputted. In some embodiments, a cover (404) would have a hole through which a button on an underlying electrical subassembly could be touched.

[0059] In some embodiments the design (401) can be visually distributed across several electrodes in order to create a whole. In some embodiments, the same or a similar object can be depicted from the several electrodes, perhaps from the same or different perspectives. In some embodiments, several designs (401) can jointly form a design theme (408) sharing elements that together follow a thematicpattern, and be distributed across several electrodes that are meant to be used sequentially over time as the user changes electrodes.

[0060] In some embodiments, an electrode (130) contains one or more covers (404). (An electrode (130) can in some embodiments contain additional features that work similarly to a cover, providing e.g., electrical insulation to the side facing away from the skin, such that a cover can be omitted, or designs, textures, or any other feature of a cover). In some embodiments, a cover can be transparent or translucent in whole or in part. A cover (404) in some embodiments comprises a dermatologically compatible self-adhesive layer for adhering to the subject's skin, and in some embodiments adhering to other parts of an electrode (130), e.g., an electric subassembly (403).

[0061] In some embodiments, the cover is textured. In some embodiments, the texture forms part of a tactile and visual whole in a design (401). The texture can be applied to the cover using e.g., casting, 3D printing, folding, or creasing of the cover or other substate, the texture may derive from a material such as a fabric, or any other technique known to the person skilled in the art.

[0062] In some embodiments, the cover is textured to mask, enhance, or otherwise consider the structure of an underlying electrical subassembly, and / or any LEDs (407), temperature sensors, buttons (417), or other components in an electrode.

[0063] In some embodiments, the cover imagery and other design elements masks (by making less visible and / or tactile), enhances or otherwise considers the structure of an underlying electrical subassembly, and / or any LEDs, temperature sensors, or other components comprised in the electrode (see e.g., Fig. 2, Fig. 3, Fig. 7). In some embodiments, a design similarly masks or enhances features of a user's anatomy. In some embodiments, active elements such as LEDs, buttons, temperature sensors and similar are integrated into a design (401), see e.g., Fig. 7.

[0064] Electrodes (130) can, e.g., be used to deliver TTFields, by delivering electrical fields to a subject's body. In some embodiments, electrical fields are delivered to a Gross Tumor Volume (GTV) which comprises a gross demonstrable location and extent of a tumor. In some embodiments, electrical fields are delivered to a Clinical Target Volume (CTV) (182) which comprises a GTV and some surrounding tissues with subclinical malignant disease at a certain probability level. (Where no other meaning is obvious from the context, the terms tissue (413), target area, target volume, GTV and CTV can all be used to refer to the location of relevance to the electrical fields.)

[0065] Typical Tumor Treating Fields (TTFields) systems interfere with the cell division process and are beneficially used between 75 and 100% of the time (out of 24 / 7 / 365) to maximize the probability of a suitable electric field being applied at the right moment during cell division, in order to treat patients (also referred to as subjects) suffering from solid tumors. They are worn or carried, with electrodes, often electrically insulated (and capacitively coupled to a subject's body), affixed to the head, torso, abdomen or other part of the body to be treated. In some embodiments stimulation of several parts ofthe body is performed at the same time, e.g., on the head and on the torso. Treatment is typically delivered alternatingly between two pairs of electrodes, such that the applied fields have different directions. Directions are typically switched in an alternating sequence every 250 ms, 500 ms or 1 s, or at with some other period between 20 ms and 4 s. Since the relationship between the applied field direction and the direction of structures inside a cancerous cell is important to treatment success, having more directions during treatment can improve outcomes. In embodiments which change the direction of applied fields over time, some or all electrodes (130) may be inactive for part of the direction switching cycle, and this will reduce the power delivered through such electrodes and therefore also the waste heat dissipation. With e.g., switching between two sets of electrodes (two directions) every 1 s, the heat dissipation in each electrode would be half, compared to embodiments where, e.g., two electrodes are active all the time. Configurations other than having four electrodes are possible, e.g., with six electrodes, and provide other possible delivery directions. In some embodiments, some subset of electrode elements (184) can be activated in an electrode (130), such that the field from the electrode is different from what would be the case if all electrode elements were active. Typical TTFields systems apply 100 kHz - 300 kHz alternating electric fields, in some embodiments 50 kHz - 500 kHz, in some embodiments 10 kHz to 10 MHz, such that the electrical field strength in the target tissue is at least 1 V / cm (measured as peak voltage, or RMS), or 1 - 5 V / cm (which can require 50 V being applied, or more). In some embodiments, the field strength is in the 0.1 - 10 V / cm range. Typically, brain tumors (where electrodes typically feature prominently on a patient's head and the heat dissipation advantages disclosed herein are particularly useful), e.g., glioblastoma, or metastases of other cancer cell types, are treated with an electrical field oscillating at about 200 kHz, and lung cancer tumors, e.g., non-small cell lung cancer, NSCLC, and mesothelioma are treated with about 150 kHz (as illustrated by the popularity of chest and back tattoos, for such an application on the torso designs might be particularly relevant, and facilitate a user's wearing of less covering or more transparent clothing on the upper body). In some embodiments, for frequencies as disclosed herein the word "about" might mean + / - 10%. In some embodiments, a TTFields signal (153) contains essentially only one frequency component, where the frequency component is in the 100 kHz to 300 kHz range, or in some embodiments 50 kHz - 500 kHz range. In some embodiments, a TTFields signal (153) contains essentially only two frequency components, or three frequency components, where at least one frequency component is in the 50 kHz to 500 kHz range, e.g., between 100 kHz and 300 kHz. In some embodiments, a TTFields signal (153) contains three or more significant frequency components in the 50 kHz to 500 kHz range or, e.g., in the 10 kHz to 1 MHz range. Having multiple frequency components can be beneficial, as e.g., tumor cells of different sizes can be effectively targeted, tumor motility can be reduced, increased permeability of a blood-brain-barrier (e.g., with about 120 kHz frequency), or yet other benefits. In embodiments with multiple frequencies (e.g., two, three or more), these wouldsuperimpose to form a single waveform, or can be applied sequentially in time during overlapping or mutually exclusive time periods. In some embodiments, only one frequency component has a field strength of at least 1 V / cm, while in other embodiments two or more have such field strength. In some embodiments, a duty cycle is applied that is lower than 100%, such that over a time period of within e.g., a few minutes, e.g., 1 minutes, 3 minutes of 10 minutes, within a few seconds, e.g., 1 second, 3 seconds, 5 seconds or 10 seconds, or less than a second, e.g., 0.5s, the stimulating electric fields are applied some fraction of the time period, e.g., a third, or half, or some other fraction between 0-100% .

[0066] In some embodiments, an electrode includes an electrical subassembly, which in turn contains surface electrode elements electrically coupled to a means of generating a TTFields signal.

[0067] In some embodiments, an electrode (130) contains an electrical subassembly (403), and an outwardly facing surface with a design (402). In some embodiments, the electrical subassembly (403) contains one or more covers (404) and a surface with a design (402) on the whole cover or a part thereof (see, e.g., Fig. 7, Fig. 10). The electrical subassembly in some embodiments can contain one or more electrode elements, or in some embodiments a plurality of electrode elements, which are configurable to deliver a therapeutic signal, e.g., for TTFields, to a subject's body. In typical embodiments, such electrodes can contain, e.g., six elements in a radial pattern, nine elements in a 3 x 3 grid pattern, 20 elements, perhaps in a grid pattern, or 13 elements, perhaps in a predominantly gridshaped pattern. It is understood that variations to these configurations would immediately come to mind as suitable embodiments. The area of an electrode (130), understood as the area spanned by its largest width by largest length, is typically at least 5 x 5 cm, in some embodiments at least 8 x 8 cm, in some embodiments at least 12 x 12 cm in some embodiments have a radial pattern such that the area of an electrode (130) is the area covered by a radius of at least 5 cm. In some embodiments, the area of the subject's skin covered by an electrode may be at least 25 cm2, at least 40 cm2, at least 100 cm2or at least 200 cm2. In some embodiments, a cover (404) extends outside the area covered by an electrode (130) or an electrical subassembly (403), to perhaps cover a larger area, perhaps extending some margin around the perimeter of the electrode or electrical subassembly, e.g., by 0-50 mm, or 5-20 mm. In some embodiments, a part of a cover (404) can extend further in some direction, e.g., by 100 mm or more. In some embodiments, electrodes can be adhesively affixed to the skin. In some embodiments, electrodes can be mechanically held against the skin. In some embodiments, a combination of affixing technologies is used. The electrode elements can be conductive or insulated, where conductive electrodes can be associated with, e.g., higher currents in the tissue, and insulated electrodes, as they predominantly deliver displacement currents, can be associated with smaller currents, but also tend to have higher electrical impedance and thus dissipate more heat. (A pair of electrodes in effect act as a capacitor, and the impedance of a capacitor tends to decrease with higher frequency. At some point, higher frequency will lead to increased impedance due to equivalent series inductance (ESL), which will dominate thelower impedance from the capacitance and lead to higher overall impedance. For electrodes (130), the equivalent series resistance (ESR) is also considerable since the medium in between is tissue, which might have a resistance of 40 Ohm or 70 Ohm, or between 30 ohms and 100 ohms in typical applications.)

[0068] The electrodes in some embodiments are connected with electrical connectors, in some embodiments in the form of wiring, in some embodiments in the form of traces on a substrate, e.g., a flex circuit board, or some other electrical connection as known to the person skilled in the art. A cover in some embodiments is coated with an adhesive coating for attachment to the subject's skin. Some such embodiments will also affix or hold the electrical subassembly to the skin. In some embodiments, the cover covers a larger surface area than the electrical subassembly. In some embodiments, a conductive hydrogel (405) is applied between the electrode elements and the skin, sometimes with a mean thickness of, e.g., 0.5 mm to 2.0 mm.

[0069] In some embodiments, a cover can be part of the electrode prior to attachment to user, perhaps through an adhesive affixion or other suitable means. In some embodiments, a cover is attached in a separate step after the electrode has been affixed to the user's body.

[0070] In some embodiments, the covers and / or the other parts of the electrodes can include fiduciary marks to facilitate the affixion of a cover on an electrode or part of an electrode. In some embodiments, a fiduciary can be printed or otherwise visible on the back side of a cover. In some embodiments, a fiduciaries marker can be visible from the front, e.g., through minor cutouts, markers around edge of cover, transparent or translucent areas, or holes through which the rest of electrode can be seen.

[0071] In some embodiments, the electrical subassembly can be held against the tissue by a mechanical structure such as a band, piece of clothing, hat or similar.

[0072] In some embodiments, an electrode can contain elements made from, e.g., foam or gel that can, e.g., mask the structure of an electrical subassembly or other parts that can contribute to, e.g., an uneven surface. In some embodiments, these are part of a design (401).

[0073] In some embodiments, a design (401) can contain pigments, paints, or other elements. In some embodiments, these can be metallic, made from reflective foil, with or without a coloring hue. In some embodiments, any parts of the electrode and / or any pigments, etc., can be biocompatible, dermatologically non-irritating or non-toxic. In some embodiments, any prints or other designs can be four-color (e.g., CMYK), or three-color (e.g., RGB). Printing can occur according to any suitable printing process known to the skilled person, such as, e.g., screen printing, ink-jet printing, laser printing or offset printing.

[0074] In some embodiments, a design (401) can comprise human, animal or synthetic hairs, or natural elements that are hair-like. In some embodiments, these can be short, e.g., less than 5 cm, perhaps asshort as e.g., 5 mm, or long, e.g., at least 15 cm, or up to 50 cm, or any length of hair that is common among the general population.

[0075] In some embodiments, active elements such as LEDs are included. In some embodiments, one or two LEDs are included. In some embodiments up to 20 LEDs are included. In some embodiments up to 1000 LEDs are included, or more. In some embodiments a single frequency is generated by a LED, such that it emits light that is, e.g., red, green, or blue. In some embodiments multiple frequencies can be generated, perhaps such that many, or any, color can be reproduced. In some embodiments, LEDs are located on an electrical subassembly (403) beneath perforations, or transparent or translucent areas in a cover. In some embodiments, light sources are located on an electrode by means of fiber optic cable. In some embodiments, one or more LED is located in specific places according to a template, where the same template can be used for many different designs for perhaps the same or user or different users. Such templates can also have specific places for, e.g., one or more buttons that would similarly be used for different designs. Using templates can be a way to, e.g., cut costs.

[0076] In some embodiments, an electrode can be sterilized by means of a gas, of radiation, or any suitable means of sterilization known to the skilled person.

[0077] In some embodiments, a design (401) can act to smooth over some or all unevenness that is caused by the components of an electrical subassembly distorting the outer surface of an electrode, or modify its appearance, e.g., by creating a visual pattern different from that of the components of the electrical subassembly would otherwise create. In some embodiments, a design (401) can mask such distortions by adding additional structures (e.g., fillers), creasing, visual elements, or similar such that the contours or other features of the electrical subassembly becomes less prominent or visible.

[0078] In some embodiments, a design (401) includes design elements that are located on the surface above several parts of the electrical subassembly (e.g., electrode elements, electrical connectors, etc.) and where the design elements present a visual representation of these elements where they are presented as a visual whole. Examples include having a design of a hand where electrode elements form part of the hand and fingers (See e.g., Fig. 1, or Fig. 7).

[0079] In some embodiments, a perhaps predominantly 2D or 3D visual representation is mapped to a set of one or more electrodes by having a visual representation, having a 3D model of a subject's body part (such as a head, torso or abdomen), having a location map indicating the desirable locations on the skin for electrodes from the set and using a computer to implement the mapping process. The 3D model of a subject's body part can be derived from e.g., MRI, CT imaging or other techniques for creating a 3D model known to the skilled person. In some embodiments, this can, e.g., create an impression of looking at the same object from different viewports. In some embodiments, this mapping is performed around or at the same time as a location map for electrodes is planned for suitable therapeutic purposes, e.g., to optimize the expected treatment efficiency.

[0080] An image imposed on the cover may be printed directly onto the material of the cover, or may be applied to a sheet of material that is then applied to the cover, thus becoming part of an electrode. The image may be printed or applied as otherwise described in this document, and may have a textured surface as part of the visual and tactile design.

[0081] The electrode may contain one or more temperature sensors located in close thermal proximity with any electrode elements, where the temperature sensors, which might comprise thermistors, are suitably connected to circuitry for measuring the temperature, and transmitting a signal to a controller which directs the generation of the output TTFields signal, such that temperatures can be monitored and appropriate actions taken in response to excessive temperatures, e.g., throttling the TTFields signal output or sounding or showing an alarm. In some embodiments, a temperature sensor is comprised in the electrical subassembly.

[0082] A cover can, e.g., be perforated to improve ventilation, perhaps in some suitably spaced pattern and in suitable perforation hole sizes and shapes.

[0083] In some embodiments, a user can be provided with a set of sets of electrodes (409) with personalized designs electrodes or sets of sets of covers that can be added to respective electrodes, to be part of the electrodes, e.g., adhesively. Personalized electrodes according to the various embodiments can include entirely custom designs (e.g., drawn, photographed, edited, manipulated or otherwise created by the subject, caretaker, family member, friend, celebrity or other person of importance to a subject, perhaps then scanned into a computer readable medium for use in manufacturing), pre-designed designs that can be selected from, e.g., a catalog, perhaps created by professional designers or generated with a generative Al model, or other designs as disclosed herein. In some embodiments, a catalog, or a means of selecting, configuring, uploading or otherwise personalizing an electrode can be implemented through a website, phone or tablet app or computer application, kiosk screen, or equivalent, or in some embodiments using a printed medium, e.g., a brochure or form, or in some embodiments through an operator orally communicating with a user and receiving instructions for the electrode design. As described herein, creating, making, providing, drawing, and similar words to the effect of fashioning a design can also include, e.g., retrieving a design, perhaps from a computer-readable medium.

[0084] In some embodiments, any hair color can be matched with the user's natural or artificial hair color.

[0085] According to some methods, a subject that will use an electrode can choose the design to be applied to it, such that the electrode is personalized. In some embodiments, a design, theme or similar is chosen for a group of users. In some embodiments, electrodes for a subject, or covers with design therefore, can be manufactured in a batch, according to a method, to last for a longer period of time, e.g., a week, one month, three months, six months, nine months, 12 months or more, or for someperiod of time in the range between one day and two years, or more, e.g., according to a schedule of application. In some methods, electrodes or covers can be manufactured directly as needed.

[0086] In some embodiments, by providing electrodes as electrode kits (410) for assembly by a patient or caretaker, stocking and delivery of electrodes can be facilitated, e.g., if a cover that is customized for a particular subject, or group of subjects, is manufactured and packaged separately from the electrical subassembly, or other parts of an electrode, that can be a common technical solution for several subjects or electrodes (e.g., a standardized electrode and / or electrical subassembly). In some embodiments, a patient or caretaker would follow a method to assemble the electrode prior to applying it. In some embodiments, a method would be followed to assemble the electrode as it was applied on the body, e.g., with the body acting as a support during this assembly process. In accordance with such an exemplary method (480), Fig. 12, a user or caretaker would first open a package with an electrode (450), then separate the electrode from a peelable backing (452), then apply the electrode to the skin (453), and then affix a cover (404) with a surface with a design (402) to the electrode. This method might be particularly advantageous for designs including hair.

[0087] In accordance with another exemplary method (470), Fig. 11, a user or caretaker can open a transportation package with an electrode (450), affix a cover (that perhaps comes from another transportation package) while the electrode remains attached to a peelable backing (451), perhaps where the peelable backing is part of the transportation package in which the electrode was delivered. With the electrode thus assembled, the user or caretaker would in a next step separate the electrode from the peelable backing (452) and attach it to the user's skin (453). In some embodiments, a cover is not functionally necessary for the operation of an electrode other than carrying the surface with a design. In some embodiments, a cover can serve an additional purpose such as providing electrical insulation (e.g., to prevent electrical shock or current flow if a user touches an electrode) or a means of support for or affixing an electrode to the user's skin or body.

[0088] In some embodiments, the electrodes, or the designs on them are substantially bilaterally symmetric on the wearer's body.

[0089] In some embodiments, the design, texture and / or the imagery as used are manufactured by means of a machine or an automated process.

[0090] In some embodiments, none of the parts of an electrode are reused as the electrode is replaced. In some embodiments, part of the electrode is reused, e.g., the cover which has a surface with a design. In other embodiments, the cover is replaced while the rest of the electrode remains on a patient.

[0091] Electrodes can in some embodiments include one or more electrode elements.

[0092] In some embodiments, electrode elements in an electrode can be connected in series or parallel, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, electrode elements in different electrodes can be connected in series or parallel, or a combination thereof.

[0093] TTFields electrodes are often offset by about 20 mm when one electrode is changed for another in order to relieve the strain on the skin such that electrode elements do not deliver electric fields to the same area of skin between electrode replacements. In some embodiments, designs meant for sequential application can be designed to accommodate an offset in the electrode location, in some embodiments such that the visual reference frame for the designs remain unchanged as electrodes are changed.

[0094] In some embodiments, a location map that indicates the locations on the skin where electrodes should be placed is used to guide the person attaching the electrodes to a subject. Such a location map can reflect the electrode features described herein, e.g., taking any offsets into account. A location map may need to be updated or replaced over time as a patient's disease progresses (e.g., a tumor growing and / or new tumors emerging) or in response to other events, preferences, or other factors, such as a patient developing e.g., a skin condition.

[0095] In one embodiment of a method (490) (Fig. 13), an electrode placement location map is created(454), where the location map identifies suitable locations for the electrodes in order to effectively target a tumor or cancerous cells in a subject's body. One or more designs are created for the electrodes(455), in accordance with the disclosures herein, considering the locations of the electrodes according to the map. The design is then manufactured (456) as described herein, e.g., on a surface with a design (402) of an electrode (130) or on a cover (404). The location map and designs are then delivered to a user (457) as described in this document, e.g., with the designs on electrodes (130), or with the designs on covers (404). A user / subject or caretaker then uses the location map to properly place a set of electrodes on a subject's body, such that the designs are applied in the desired positions.

[0096] The steps 454, 455, and 456 above can together constitute a method of manufacturing a design when performed in sequence.

[0097] The steps 454 and 455 can together constitute a method of preparing a location map and creating designs for individual electrodes in the location maps."Modes" of the invention

[0098] The following is a numbered list of non-limiting illustrative embodiments of the invention in several different modes:1. An electrode (130) for applying an electrical field to a subject's body, comprising: an electrical subassembly (403), a surface with a design (402), comprising a design (401), the design providing visual stimulation, wherein the electrical subassembly (403) is configurable to deliver between 0 A and 4 A current to a subject's body.2. An electrode (130) according to mode 1, wherein the electrical subassembly (403) is configurable to deliver at least 0.7 A to a subject's body.3. An electrode (130) according to any of modes 1 or 2, wherein the electrical subassembly (403) is configurable to deliver up to 2.0 A to a subject's body.4. An electrode (130) for applying an electrical field to a target area of a subject's body, comprising: an electrical subassembly (403), a surface with a design (402), wherein the electrical field has a field strength in the target area between 0.1 and 10 V / cm.5. An electrode (130) according to mode 4, wherein the electrical field has a field strength in the target area of at least 1 V / cm.6. An electrode (130) according to mode 4, wherein the electrical field has a field strength in the target area of between 1 V / cm and 5 V / cm.7. An electrode (130) for applying an electrical field to a target area of a subject's body, comprising: an electrical subassembly (403), a surface with a design (402), wherein the target area contains cancerous cells.8. An electrode (130) according to mode 7, wherein the electrical field has a field strength in the target area sufficient to interfere with a cell division process.9. An electrode (130) for applying an electrical field to a subject's body, comprising: an electrical subassembly (403), a surface with a design (402), wherein the electrode (130) is at least 5 cm wide and at least 5 cm long.10. An electrode (130) for applying an electrical field to a subject's body, comprising: an electrical subassembly (403), a surface with a design (402),wherein the electrode (130) is configurable to deliver an electrical field comprising a frequency between 10 kHz and 10 MHz. An electrode (130) for applying an electrical field to a subject's body as part of a schedule of application, comprising: an electrical subassembly (403), a surface with a design (402), wherein the schedule of application is at least one month long. An electrode (130) for applying an electrical field to a subject's body as part of a schedule of application, comprising: an electrical subassembly (403), a surface with a design (402), wherein the design masks or enhances the electrical subassembly in part or in full. An electrode (130) for applying an electrical field to a subject's head, comprising: an electrical subassembly (403), a surface with a design (402), wherein the electrode is configurable to deliver at least 1 V / cm to a target area in a subject's head, and wherein the surface with a design (402) is visible during the application of an electric field. An electrode (130) according to any of modes 4-12, wherein the surface with a design (402) is configurable to be visible during the application of an electric field and / or exposed to ambient air. An electrode according to any of modes 1-14, wherein the surface with a design (402) comprises a design (401), the design providing visual stimulation. An electrode (130) according to any of modes 1-13, configured to be used together with a second electrode (130) to apply an electric field. An electrode (130) according to any of modes 1-13, configured to be used together with a second electrode (130) to apply an electric current. An electrode (130) according to any of modes 1-17, wherein the electrical subassembly (403) comprises one or more electrode elements (184), a substrate and electrical connections. An electrode (130) according to mode 18, wherein the electrode elements (184) are electrically insulated from a subject's body. An electrode (130) according to any of modes 18-19, wherein some or all of the electrode elements (184) are connected in series, in parallel, or in a combination of series and parallel. An electrode (130) according to any of the preceding modes, configurable to be worn visible and exposed to ambient air.An electrode (130) according to any of the preceding modes, also comprising a cover (404) that covers the electrical subassembly (403) in whole or in part, wherein the cover has a surface with a design (402) and is covered with a design (401) in whole or in part. An electrode (130) according to mode 22, wherein the cover has an area of at least 25 cm2. An electrode (130) according to mode 22, wherein the electrode comprises a second cover (404) that covers the electrical subassembly in whole or in part. An electrode (130) according to mode 22, wherein the cover is adhesively attached to the subject's body. An electrode (130) according to any of modes 22 or 25, wherein the electrical subassembly is between the cover and the subject's body. An electrode (130) according to any of modes 22-26, wherein the cover electrically insulates the electrical subassembly from the side facing away from the skin. An electrode (130) according to any of modes 22-27, wherein the cover comprises a fabric. An electrode (130) according to any of modes 22-28, wherein the cover comprises a dermatologically compatible self-adhesive layer for adhering to the subject's skin. An electrode (130) according to any of modes 22-29, wherein the cover contains perforations. An electrode (130) according to mode any of modes 1, 14 or 22-30, wherein the design (401) comprises an image. An electrode (130) according to mode 31, wherein the image comprises an imprint of a photo. An electrode (130) according to mode 31, wherein the image contains a photo. An electrode (130) according to mode 31, wherein the image contains an illustration. An electrode (130) according to mode 31, wherein the image contains written characters, text, or symbols. An electrode (130) according to mode 31, wherein the image contains a message. An electrode (130) according to mode 31, wherein the image contains references to a subject's anatomy. An electrode (130) according to mode 31, wherein the image is screen printed onto the cover. An electrode (130) according to mode 31, wherein the image is monochrome. An electrode (130) according to mode 31, wherein the image is four-color. An electrode (130) according to mode 31, wherein the image is three-color. An electrode (130) according to mode 31, wherein the image contains metallic reflective elements. An electrode (130) according to mode 11, wherein an electrode (130) is replaced repeatedly during the schedule of application.An electrode (130) according to any of modes 11 or 43, wherein the schedule of application comprises applying an electric field to a subject's body at least 75% of the time. An electrode (130) according to any of the preceding modes, wherein the electrode (130) is replaced about twice a week. An electrode (130) according to any of modes 1-10 or 12, wherein the electrode (130) is used for a part of a schedule of application lasting at least a month. An electrode (130) according to any of the preceding modes, wherein the electrode (130) is configured to be worn in an ambulatory setting. An electrode (130) according to any of the preceding modes, wherein the electrode (130) is configured to be used by an adult patient. An electrode (130) according to mode 48, wherein an image is configured to appeal to children. An electrode (130) according to any of the preceding modes, wherein the electrode (130) is configured to be used by a child. An electrode (130) according to any of the preceding modes, wherein the electrode (130) is used to deliver an electric field targeting a cancerous tissue. An electrode (130) according to any of the preceding modes, wherein the electrode (130) is sterilizable. An electrode (130) according to any of the preceding modes, wherein the cover or surface with a design (402) comprises one or more fiduciary markers. An electrode (130) according to mode 53, wherein a fiduciary is for attaching the electrode (130) to the subject's body. An electrode (130) according to mode 53, wherein a fiduciary is for attaching the cover to the rest of the electrode (130). An electrode (130) according to any of the preceding modes, wherein the electrode (130) contains one or more light emitting diodes. An electrode (130) according to mode 56, wherein the electrode (130) contains 1 to 20 light emitting diodes. An electrode (130) according to mode 56, wherein the electrode (130) contains one or more light emitting diodes configured to emit light of a single frequency. An electrode (130) according to mode 56, wherein the electrode (130) contains one or more light emitting diodes configured to emit any combination of red, green or blue light. An electrode (130) according to mode 56, wherein the electrode (130) contains light emitting diodes configured to emit light of multiple frequencies. An electrode (130) according to mode 56, wherein one or more light emitting diodes are located beneath perforations in the cover.An electrode (130) according to any of the preceding modes, wherein a fiber optic wire is used to deliver light visible in an electrode (130). An electrode (130) according to any of the preceding modes, wherein the electrode (130) comprises one or more buttons (417). An electrode (130) according to mode 63, wherein the electrode (130) comprises between 1 and 20 buttons. An electrode (130) according to mode 63, wherein a button is capacitive. An electrode (130) according to mode 63, wherein a button is roughly circular or roughly square. An electrode (130) according to mode 63, wherein a button is located to overlap an electrode element. An electrode (130) according to mode 63, wherein a button is a slider. An electrode (130) according to any of the preceding modes, further comprising a detachable electrical connector (412) for connecting to a signal generator (102). An electrode (130) according to any of the preceding modes, further comprising an electrical cable. An electrode (130) according to any of the preceding modes, configured for application to a subject's head. An electrode (130) according to any of the preceding modes, configured for application to a subject's torso. An electrode (130) according to any of the preceding modes, configured for application to a subject's abdomen. An electrode (130) according to any of the preceding modes, wherein the electrode (130) covers an area of at least 40 cm2on a subject's skin. An electrode (130) according to mode 74, wherein the electrode (130) covers an area of at least 200 cm2on a subject's skin. An electrode (130) according to any of the preceding modes, configured for delivering an electrical field to a subject's body comprising a frequency between 10 kHz and 10 MHz. An electrode (130) according to mode 76, configured for delivering an electrical field to a subject's body comprising a frequency between 50 kHz and 500 kHz. An electrode (130) according to mode 76, configured for delivering an electrical field to a subject's body comprising a frequency between 100 kHz and 300 kHz. An electrode (130) according to mode 76, configured for delivering an electrical field to a subject's body comprising a frequency at 150 kHz. An electrode (130) according to mode 76, configured for delivering an electrical field to a subject's body comprising a frequency at 200 kHz.An electrode (130) according to any of modes 76 to 80, containing essentially only a single frequency. An electrode (130) according to any of modes 76 to 80, containing essentially only two frequencies or containing essentially only three frequencies. An electrode (130) according to any of modes 76 to 80, where an electrical field comprises a second frequency between 50 kHz and 500 kHz. An electrode (130) according to any of the preceding modes, where an electrical field contains a field strength of at least 1 V / cm. An electrode (130) according to any of the preceding modes, configurable to deliver a current of 0.3 to 2 A (RMS). An electrode (130) according to mode 16, configurable to deliver a power output to the tissue of 0-100 W. An electrode (130) according to any of the preceding modes, comprising one or more temperature sensors. An electrode (130) according to any of the preceding modes, further comprising a conductive gel (405). An electrode (130) according to any of the preceding modes, wherein a surface with a design (402) comprises a design (401) comprising hairs extending out from the electrode (130). An electrode (130) according to mode 89, further comprising hairs essentially between 5 and 50 mm long, or 5 and 500 mm long. A cover (404) for application on an electrode (130), wherein the cover comprises a surface with a design (402). A cover according to mode 92, wherein the electrode is used to deliver an electric field to a subject's body. A cover according to any of modes 91 or 92, wherein the electrode is used to deliver tumor treating fields. A system (100) comprising a plurality of electrodes (130), configurable to deliver electric fields to a subject's body where power output of the system to the body is in the range between 0 W and 100 W. A system according to mode 91, wherein the power output of the system is in the range 20 to 40 W, up to and including 35 W or up and including to 50 W. A set of electrodes (409), comprising a plurality of electrodes (130), configured for simultaneous application to a subject's body, wherein some or all of the electrodes (130) comprise a surface with a design (402),.A set of electrodes (409) according to mode 96, wherein with images configured for simultaneous application to a subject's body, wherein two or more of designs (401) are mounted symmetrically on a subject's body. A set of electrodes (409) according to mode 97, with images configured for simultaneous application to a subject's body, wherein two or more of the designs (401) are mounted with bilateral symmetry on a subject's body. A set of electrodes (409), comprising a first electrode (130) and a second electrode (130), each comprising a design (401) on a respective surface with a design (402), wherein the first and second electrodes are configured for sequential application to a subject's body, wherein two or more designs (401) form a sequence with a common theme. . A set of electrodes (409), according to mode 99. Comprising a plurality of electrodes (130), each comprising a design (401) on a respective surface with a design (402), wherein the plurality of electrodes is configured for sequential application to a subject's body, wherein two or more designs (401) form a sequence with a common theme. . A set of electrodes (409), according to mode 99, wherein two or more designs (401) are essentially the same. . A set of electrodes (409) according to any of modes 96 to 101, comprising a first electrode (130) and a second electrode (130), wherein a first electrode (130) has a design (401) containing a first part of a text, and the second electrode (130), for later application, has a design (401) which contains a second part of the same text. . A set of electrodes (409) according to mode 102, wherein the first electrode and the second electrode are configured to be applied to the same part of a subject's body. . A set of electrodes (409) according to any of modes 99 or 102, wherein a first electrode is applied to a first location and a second electrode is configured to be applied to a location offset from the first location by up to 20 mm with the same offset applied in reverse to the design (401) on the second electrode, such that their respective designs (401) appear to be affixed to the same location. . A kit (410) for assembly into an electrode (130), comprising: a cover (404) with a surface with a design (402), an electrical subassembly (403), and a package for storing and / or transporting the kit. . A method for a schedule of application, wherein electrodes (130) are used to apply electric fields to a subject's body, wherein electric fields are applied for at least 75% of the time.. A method for applying an electrode (130) with a design to a subject's body, the method comprising the steps of a) opening a package, b) applying an electrical subassembly to asubject's body, c) applying a cover to the subject's body, wherein the cover covers part or all of the electrical subassembly. . A method for applying an electrode (130) with a design (401) to a subject's body, the method comprising adhesively applying an electrode (130). . A method according to mode 108, wherein the electrode (130) is placed in a location indicated by a location map. . A method according to mode 108, wherein the electrode (130) is placed in a location indicated by one or more fiduciary markers on an electrode (130). . A method according to mode 108, wherein the electrode (130) is placed in a location indicated by one or more anatomical features of the subject as guided by the design (401).. A method for manufacturing an electrode (130), comprising the step of applying a design (401) to a surface with a design (402) by means of an automated process. . A method for manufacturing an electrode (130) with an image, the method comprising the step of screen printing on a cover. . A method for manufacturing an electrode (130), comprising the steps of separately packaging an electrode substrate in one package and a cover in one package. . A method for manufacturing an electrode (130), wherein the final assembly of the electrode is performed in close proximity to the time of application of the electrode (130) on a subject's body. . A method according to mode 115, comprising the steps of opening a package containing an electrode substrate, attaching a cover to an electrode substate, removing the electrode from the electrode substrate package. . A computer-implemented method of creating a set of images for a set of electrodes, comprising the steps of having a visual representation, having a 3D model of a part of a subject's body, identifying suitable locations for placing electrode, and mapping the visual representation to the images of the electrode. . A method according to mode 117, wherein the visual representation is a predominantly two-dimensional representation. . A method according to any of modes 117 or 118, wherein the visual representation comprises a photo or image. . A method according to mode 117, wherein the visual representation is a three- dimensional model.121. A method of affixing electrodes (130) to a subject's body, where the electrodes comprise surfaces with designs (402), comprising the steps of creating an electrode placement location map indicating suitable locations of electrodes as part of a schedule of application (treatment regime), creating one or more designs (401) for the electrodes indicated by the map, manufacturing the one or more designs on a cover (404) or electrode (130), delivering the cover or electrode with the design to a user or caretaker, and attaching the electrode or cover with the design to the user's body.Closing comments

[0099] While this specification contains many implementation details, these should not be construed as limitations on the scope of the invention or of what may be claimed, but as descriptions of features specific to implementations of the invention. Certain features that are described in this specification in the context of separate embodiments can also be implemented in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features that are described in the context of a single embodiment can also be implemented in multiple embodiments separately or in any suitable sub combination. Moreover, although features may be described above as acting in certain combinations and even initially claimed as such, one or more features from a claimed combination can in some cases be excised from the combination, and the claimed combination may be directed to a sub combination or variation of a sub combination. Similarly, more or fewer steps in methods might be taken. Thus, unless explicitly stated otherwise, or unless the knowledge of one of ordinary skill in the art clearly indicates otherwise, any of the features of the embodiment described above can be combined with any of the other features of the embodiment described above. Thus, many variations to the above examples lie well within the scope of the attached claims and within the capabilities of a person having ordinary skill in the art.

Claims

Claims1. An electrode (130) for applying an electrical field to a subject's body, comprising: an electrical subassembly (403), a surface with a design (402), comprising a design (401), the design providing visual and / or tactile stimulation, wherein the electrical subassembly (403) is configurable to deliver between 0 A and 4 A current to a subject's body.

2. An electrode (130) according to claim 1, wherein the electrical subassembly (403) is configurable to deliver at least 0.7 A to the subject's body.

3. An electrode (130) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the electrode is used for applying an electrical field to a target area of the subject's body, wherein the target area contains cancerous cells.

4. An electrode (130) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the electrode (130) covers an area of at least 25 cm2.

5. An electrode (130) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the electrode is for use as part of a schedule of application, and wherein the schedule of application is at least one month long.

6. An electrode (130) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the electrode is configurable to deliver at least 1 V / cm to a target area in a subject's head, and wherein the surface with a design (402) is visible during the application of an electric field.

7. An electrode (130) according to any of claims 1 to 5, wherein the electrode is configurable to deliver at least 1 V / cm to a target area in a subject's torso and / or abdomen.

8. An electrode (130) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the electrode comprises one or more electrode elements (184), and wherein the electrode elements are electrically insulated from a subject's body.

9. An electrode (130) according to any of the preceding claims, also comprising a cover (404) that covers the electrical subassembly (403) in whole or in part, wherein the cover has a surface with a design (402) and is covered with a design (401) in whole or in part.

10. An electrode (130) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the electrode is for use as part of a schedule of application, and wherein an electrode (130) is replaced repeatedly during the schedule of application.

11. An electrode (130) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the electrode (130) contains one or more light emitting diodes.

12. A cover (404) for application on an electrode (130), wherein the cover comprises a surface with a design (402).

13. A set of electrodes (409), comprising a plurality of electrodes (130), configured for simultaneous application to a subject's body, wherein some or all of the electrodes (130) comprise a surface with a design (402).

14. A method for manufacturing an electrode (130) to be used on a subject, comprising: applying a design (401) to a surface with a design (402) by means of an automated process, wherein the design is configurable to be chosen by the subject.

15. A method of manufacturing a set of electrodes (130), where the electrodes comprise surfaces with designs (402), comprising: creating an electrode placement location map indicating suitable electrode locations on a subject's body as part of a schedule of application, creating one or more designs (401) for the electrodes indicated by the map, and manufacturing the one or more designs on a cover (404) or electrode (130).

Images