Enhanced electrical-magnetic connector magnetically coupling a lead to an electrode

Abstract

An electrical connector assembly having a magnetic attachment mechanism including a housing having a detent with a curved surface, one or more magnets positioned within the housing, a cap positioned over a first pole of the one or more magnets, and a protruding portion which can connect to an electrode, charging system, or communication system and fits within the detent. Charging configurations and Bluetooth synchronization protocols are also described.

Description

Atty. Docket No. 96509-6138ENHANCED ELECTRICAL-MAGNETIC CONNECTOR MAGNETICALLYCOUPLING A LEAD TO AN ELECTRODECROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED PATENT APPLICATION(S)

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 718,286, filed November 8, 2024, and of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 740,179, filed December 30. 2024, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference as if set forth in full.FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates to electrical stimulation, in particular, to an electrical-magnetic connector for coupling an electrical stimulation system to an electrode, a battery charge system, or communication device.BACKGROUND

[0003] Muscles and nerves can be stimulated therapeutically or as exercise, sometimes using electrode pads. Because electrode pads can decouple from a human body when the human body moves, there is a need for an improved electrode-lead connector between the electrode pad and the electrical stimulation system.SUMMARY

[0004] One aspect of the disclosure provides a connector assembly for magnetically and electrically connecting an electrical stimulation module to an electrode pad, the connector assembly comprising: a module-side connector comprising: a housing comprising a detent with an electrically conductive concave curved surface; and one or more magnets positioned within the housing; an electrode-side connector including a stud having a protruding portion with an electrically conductive convex curved surface shaped corresponding to the concave curved surface of the detent to allow the stud to fit into and magnetically and electrically couple to the detent allowing three- dimensional movement between the stud and the detent connector while magnetically and electrically coupled together.

[0005] The connector assembly of the preceding paragraph can include any subcombination of the following features: wherein the electrode-side connector is153901856.1Atty. Docket No. 96509-6138 coupled to an electrode pad; wherein the one or more magnets comprises an annular magnet; wherein the housing comprises a non-ferrous material; wherein the connector assembly further comprising a cap positioned over a first pole of the magnet such that the magnet is between the cap and a portion of the housing, wherein the cap comprises a ferrous metal and contacts the detent; wherein the housing further comprises a portion configured to connect to an electrical stimulation system; wherein the connector assembly further comprises a casing positioned around at least a portion of the housing; wherein the connector assembly further comprises a connection pin contacting the housing and extending through the casing, wherein the connection pin is electrically conductive and configured to attach to a control device; wherein the electrode-side connector is coupled to a charging system; wherein the electrode-side connector is coupled to a communication system.

[0006] One aspect of the disclosure provides an electrode connection system, the system comprising: a module-side connector comprising: an electrically conductive housing; an engagement portion comprising a curved surface configured to facilitate three-dimensional movement of the module-side connector when the module-side connector is coupled to an electrode pad; and a magnetic portion; and an electrical stimulation system in electrical communication with the module-side connector.

[0007] The system of the preceding paragraph can include any sub-combination of the following features: wherein the engagement portion is configured to magnetically and electrically communicate with an engagement portion comprising a complementary curved surface; wherein the system further comprises an electrode pad comprising: a complementary engagement portion in electrical and magnetic communication with the engagement portion; and a conductive pad in electrical communication with the complementary engagement portion; wherein the complementary engagement portion comprises a ferrous material; wherein the engagement portion is conductive; wherein the engagement portion comprises a detent; wherein the engagement portion comprises a detent and the complementary engagement portion comprises a protrusion; wherein the housing is configured to rotate in at least two planes; wherein the engagement portion and the complementary engagement portion each comprise a curved surface; wherein the engagement portion comprises a first portion of a ball joint, and wherein the complementary engagement portion comprises a second complementary portion of253901856.1Atty. Docket No. 96509-6138 a ball joint; wherein the complementary engagement portion connects to the conductive pad via a snap-fit connection.

[0008] One aspect of the disclosure provides an electrode connection system, the system comprising: a module-side connector comprising: an electrically conductive housing; an engagement portion comprising a curved surface configured to facilitate three-dimensional movement of the module-side connector when the module-side connector is coupled to an electrode pad; and a magnetic portion; and a station in communication with the module-side connector.

[0009] The system of the preceding paragraph can include any sub-combination of the following features: wherein the station comprises a charging system; wherein the station comprises a communication system.

[0010] One aspect of the disclosure provides a connector assembly for magnetically and electrically connecting an electrical stimulation module to an electrode pad, the connector assembly comprising: a module-side connector; and an electrode-side connector, wherein the module-side connector and the electrode side connector comprise means for coupling together in a magnetic and electrical connection where the module-side connector can rotate and tilt relative to the electrode-side connector while maintaining the electrical and magnetic connection between the module-side connector and the electrode-side connector.

[0011] One aspect of the disclosure provides an electrostimulation (EMS) system comprising: a first EMS device configured to apply first EMS pulses on a first channel; a second EMS device configured to apply second EMS pulses on a second channel; a third EMS device configured to apply third EMS pulses on a third channel; and a fourth EMS device configured to apply fourth EMS pulses on a fourth channel. The first EMS device communicates wirelessly with each of the second EMS device, the third EMS device, and the fourth EMS device. During a synchronization phase, the first EMS device determines: a peripheral device number for each of the second, third, and fourth EMS devices indicative of the order in which the first EMS device will wirelessly communicate with the second, third, and fourth EMS devices, a connection interval representing a time interval between successive connection events between the first EMS device and each of the second, third, and fourth EMS devices, wherein the connection interval is the same for communications between the first EMS device and each of the second, third, and fourth EMS devices, and an offset between a connection353901856.1Atty. Docket No. 96509-6138 event between the first EMS device and the second EMS device, a connection event between the first EMS device and the third EMS device, and a connection event between the first EMS device, and the fourth EMS device, wherein the offset is the same for each. During an EMS phase, second, third, and fourth EMS pulses are delayed to avoid overlap based on the peripheral device number, the connection interval, and the offset.

[0012] The system of the preceding paragraph can include any sub-combination of the following features: wherein the first, second, third, and fourth EMS devices communicate wirelessly over Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) protocol; wherein the second, third, and fourth EMS devices do not wireless communicate with each other; a control device, wherein the control device communicates wirelessly with the first EMS device; wherein the first EMS device, the second EMS device, the third EMS device, and the fourth EMS device are identical devices; wherein the second, third, and fourth EMS pulses are delayed based on a pulse delay representative of a desired delay between pulses of adjacent channels.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] To easily identify the discussion of any particular element or act, the most significant digit or digits in a reference number refer to the figure number in which that element is first introduced.

[0014] FIG. 1A is a schematic diagram of an example of a wirelessly controlled electrical stimulation system.

[0015] FIG. IB is a schematic diagram of an example of a portion of an electrical stimulation system.

[0016] FIG. 1C is a schematic diagram of an example of an electrical stimulation system.

[0017] FIG. ID is a schematic diagram of an example of an electrical stimulation system.

[0018] FIG. IE is a schematic diagram of an example of an electrical stimulation system connected to a station.

[0019] FIG. 2 is a perspective section view of an example of a connector assembly.

[0020] FIG. 3 is a perspective section view of an example of a connector assembly.

[0021] FIG. 4 is a front section view of an example of a connector assembly.

[0022] FIG. 5 is a perspective section view of an example of a connector assembly.453901856.1Atty. Docket No. 96509-6138

[0023] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an example of a connector assembly.

[0024] FIG. 7 is a front section view of an example of a connector assembly.

[0025] FIG. 8 is a front section view of an example of a connector assembly.

[0026] FIG. 9A is a perspective view of an example of a wired connector assembly.

[0027] FIG. 9B is a perspective section view of an example of a wired connector assembly.

[0028] FIG. 10 is a perspective section view of an example of an electrode-side connector.

[0029] FIG. 11 is a front view of a stud that can be part of an electrode pad.

[0030] FIG. 12A is a perspective section view of an example of a connector assembly including a station.

[0031] FIG. 12B is a perspective section view' of an example of a station connector.

[0032] FIG. 13A is a schematic diagram illustrating an example charging system for a stimulation device.

[0033] FIG. 13B is a schematic diagram illustrating an example charging system for a stimulation device.

[0034] FIG. 13C is a schematic diagram illustrating an example charging system for a stimulation device.

[0035] FIG. 14A illustrates an example of a two-channel electrostimulation system applied to a user's leg.

[0036] FIG. 14B illustrates the effect of overlap of stimulation pulses applied by the first and second channels of the two-channel electrostimulation system of FIG. 14A.

[0037] FIG. 14C illustrates stimulation pulses of a four-channel electrostimulation system offset from one another so as to avoid overlap.

[0038] FIG. 14D illustrates an example architecture of a four-channel electrostimulation system to synchronize the wireless electrostimulation devices thereof.

[0039] FIG. 14E illustrates another example architecture of a four-channel electrostimulation system that can be configured to synchronize the wireless electrostimulation devices thereof.

[0040] FIG. 14F illustrates an example methodology for synchronizing pulses of electrostimulation devices communicating over the Bluetooth® Low Energy (BLE) protocol.553901856.1Atty. Docket No. 96509-6138

[0041] Certain implementations will now be described more fully below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which various implementations and / or aspects are shown. However, various aspects may be implemented in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the implementations set forth herein; rather, these implementations are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the disclosure to those skilled in the art. Like numbers in the figures refer to like elements throughout. Hence, if a feature is used across several drawings, the number used to identify the feature in the drawing where the feature first appeared will be used in later drawings.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0042] Example embodiments described herein provide example embodiments of an electrical connector assembly that can be used with an electrical stimulation system (ESS) to couple a lead of an electrical stimulation module (‘’module”), or the module itself, to an electrode pad.

[0043] Neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NEMS) causes muscles to contract byapplying electrical stimulation to the muscles through an electrode pad in contact with the human body. NMES can be used along with exercise to strengthen a person’s muscles, and can be used therapeutically to strengthen and retrain weakened or damaged muscles. NMES also can be used when voluntary7motor ability- is lost, such as in paralysis, to induce contractions that provide muscle benefits similar to those achieved by voluntary exercise.

[0044] When NMES and other types of electrical stimulation are performed, electrode pads are placed on the skin over a target muscle group. An NMES system is connected to the electrode pads to provide electrical impulses to the electrode pads that, via contact with the body, cause the target muscle group to contract. In some examples, an NMES stimulation system can control treatment parameters of an NMES session, such as impulse frequency, impulse duration, impulse ramp up time, ratio of impulse time to off time, and treatment session length. NMES can be performed during active movements or while inactive. For example, NMES can be used in combination with an exercise program, during active movements, or while a person is sedentary.

[0045] Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) refers to technique by which pain is treated by masking pain signals before they reach the brain. TENS may653901856.1Atty. Docket No. 96509-6138 be used to treat a number of conditions, including osteoarthritis, tendinitis, and fibromyalgia. When TENS is performed, electrode pads are placed on the skin over or near an affected area (e.g., the location of the pain). A TENS stimulation system is connected to the electrode pads and provides electrical impulses to the electrode pads, activating peripheral nerves to release endorphins and relieve pain. In some examples, a TENS stimulation system can control treatment parameters of a TENS session, for example, the frequency of impulses, the duration of impulses, the ramp time of impulses, the ratio of impulse time to off time, and the length of a treatment session.

[0046] Other forms of applying electrical stimulation, including, but not limited to, interferential current (IFC), electrical muscle stimulation (EMS), Russian stimulation, high voltage electrical stimulation, or direct current stimulation are also known in the art. These other forms of stimulation can be used for a variety of therapeutic purposes.

[0047] When electrical stimulation is performed generally, electrode pads are placed on the skin over or near an affected area. An electrical stimulation system is connected to the electrode pads and provides electrical impulses to the electrode pads. In some examples, the electrical stimulation system can control treatment parameters of a treatment session, for example, the stimulation supplied, and the length of a treatment session. It should be understood that the ESS and connector assemblies described herein are not limited to NMES or TENS stimulation and may be capable of performing other forms of electrical stimulation.

[0048] For electrical stimulation, a module having control electronics and a power source provides electrical stimulation which electrode pads distribute into the user, causing muscle contractions. The module can include a control device or receive instructions from a control device. The module can receive instructions from a control device through either a wired or wireless connection. The module connects to a lead which attaches to the electrode pads. Electrode pads can be an expendable wear part that is replaced far more frequently than the other components of the stimulation system. Additionally, electrical stimulation therapy is commonly incorporated into an exercise program and users are likely to move around during a therapy session.

[0049] The embodiments described herein advantageously disclose a connector assembly for a non-permanent electrical coupling between an electrode pad and a module (i.e., the module itself, or the lead of a module). The connector assembly includes a proximal portion module-side connector which can be removably coupled to753901856.1Atty. Docket No. 96509-6138 a distal portion electrode-side connector. The module-side connector and the electrodeside connector are held together by a magnetic force. For example, in one embodiment, the module-side connector can include a magnet and the electrode-side connector can comprise a magnetic metal ( e.g., iron, nickel, cobalt, steel). In another embodiment, the electrode-side connector can comprise a magnetic material and the module-side connector can include a magnet. Although either the module-side connector and / or the electrode side connector can include a magnet, because the electrode pad is ty pically a consumable item, for cost reasons the module-side connector typically includes the magnet. As illustrated in FIG. 2 and other figures, the connector assembly is structured to allow movement of the module-side connector in multiple planes (e.g., three- dimensional ("3D") movement of pitch, yaw, and roll) relative to the electrode-side connector. That is, such that the module-side connector can tilt, pivot, and rotate relative to the electrode-side connector while maintaining an electrical connection between the module-side connector and the electrode-side connector, allowing a user to move without disconnecting from either the electrode pad or the module. The module-side connector and the electrode-side connector include complementary curved surfaces. For example, the curved surface of the module-side connector can form a detent ( e.g., a concave surface) and the electrode-side connector can form a complementary7protrusion ( e.g., a convex surface) which fits within the detent. In another embodiment, the curved surface of the electrode-side connector can form a detent and module side connector can form a complementary protrusion which fits within the detent. The magnetic connection between the module-side connector and the electrode-side connector can hold the complementary surfaces against each other and the shape of the curved surfaces can facilitate the tilt, pivot, and rotation of the moduleside connector relative to the electrode-side connector. In some examples the moduleside connector can attach to a stimulation lead which can attach to a module. In other examples, the module-side connector can attach directly to a module. The module can send electrical pulses through the module-side connector to the electrode-side connector and through the electrode-side connector to an electrode pad.ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENTS

[0050] An example of an embodiment of a connector assembly is described below in reference to the figures. It will be appreciated by those of ordinary' skill in the art that853901856.1Atty. Docket No. 96509-6138 various modifications and changes may be made without departing from the scope of the described technology7. Such modifications and changes are intended to fall within the scope of the embodiments. It will also be appreciated by those of ordinary' skill in the art that parts included in one embodiment are interchangeable with other embodiments, and one or more parts from a depicted embodiment can be included with other depicted embodiments in any combination. For example, any of the various components described herein and / or depicted in the figures may be combined, interchanged or excluded from other embodiments.

[0051] As described herein with reference to the figures, proximal refers to the side of the system (or component) closest to the user while the system is in use and distal refers to the side of the system (or component) closest to a module.

[0052] Below is a list of examples of certain components that are illustrated in examples included in certain figures of this disclosure, and that may be referenced in various embodiments of connector assemblies. In some instances, different terminology can be used for these components, for example, for clarity7or brevity7of description.953901856.1Aty. Docket No. 96509-61381053901856.1Atty. Docket No. 96509-6138

[0053] FIGS. 1A-1E illustrate schematic diagrams of examples of electrical stimulation systems 300 (ESS). The ESS 300 can be, for example, a NMES device or a TENS device and can be configured with various components to provide stimulation through the electrode pads 160 to a user. The innovations disclosed herein relate to electrical-magnetic connections to electrode pads which can be used with any of the illustrated examples of ESS and other systems where a non-permanent coupling of an electrical connection is desired. In these examples, each ESS 300 includes a module 200 coupled to one or more electrode pads 160 by one or more connector assemblies 100. The electrode pads 160 can include an adhesive (e.g.. hydrogel) to removably adhere to a user's skin. The connector assembly 100 can be, for example, an embodiment of the connector assembly 100 illustrated in Figures 2-11.

[0054] FIG. 1A is a schematic diagram of an example of an ESS 300. In some embodiments, the ESS 300 can be a NMES device and / or a TENS device. The ESS 300 has a control device 220 which communicates with a first module 200 and a second module 200. The control device 220 can communicate wirelessly with the first module 200 via a first wireless connection 212 and the second module 200 via a second wireless connection 212.

[0055] In some examples, the control device 220 communicates with the first and second modules 200 to specify a stimulation treatment to be provided to the user. The1153901856.1Atty. Docket No. 96509-6138 control device 220 can use stored programs and / or user inputs to determine the stimulation parameters such as stimulation pulse frequency, strength, and duration. The control device 220 can manage more than one output channel, for example, two or more output channels. In certain implementations, one output channel communicates stimulation parameters to the first module 200 and another output channel communicates stimulation parameters to the second module 200. The multiple channels may operate simultaneously, alternately, in another time-based relation. The stimulation treatment delivered by each channel may be customized and adjusted by an operator, who may be a care provider or the user.

[0056] In some examples, the control device 220 can be housed in in a handheld unit with a plastic outer casing. The control device 220 may be waterproof or water-resistant (e.g., sweat or water are not permitted to penetrate the plastic casing), and operable with one adult hand. In some examples, the control device 220 can be a mobile phone (e.g., a smart phone), a tablet, or another device capable of wireless communication. In some examples, the control device 220 can be an app configured to operate on a mobile phone and use the mobile phone capabilities (e.g., Bluetooth®, Wi-Fi®, display, interface, etc.) to perform functions of a control device.

[0057] In some examples, the control device 220 can include a user interface which can display current stimulation settings, historical use data, or preprogrammed device settings of the ESS. The user interface can display instructions on where to place the first electrode pad 160 and the second electrode pad 160. In some embodiments, the user interface can have buttons, knobs, a touchscreen, or combination thereof. The buttons, knobs, or touchscreen can be used to input settings into the ESS 300. In some embodiments, the input settings can include selecting from a preprogrammed stimulation program (e.g., stimulation parameters), setting custom stimulation programs, or adjusting a preprogramed stimulation program. In some embodiments, the control device 220 can be integrated into the module 200. Some or all of the components of the user interface can be integrated into the module 200. The module 200 can generate electrical stimulation pulses as described herein.

[0058] In some examples, the control device 220 can communicate with one or more remote data sources 280 (a single remote data source, and more than one remote data sources referred to herein as "a remote data source" for clarity or description). The control device 220 can communicate with the remote data source 280 via a wireless1253901856.1Atty. Docket No. 96509-6138 connection (e.g., Wi-Fi® or Bluetooth®). In some embodiments, the control device 220 can communicate with the remote data source 280 via a wired connection (e.g., connecting a data portion of the control device 220 to a computer with a USB cable). The remote data source 280 can be a server. The remote data source 280 can store historical user data (such as performance and use statistics) and adjust the capabilities of the system (e.g., by downloading additional programs to the control device or updating the operating system of the control device). In some examples, the remote data source 280 can store user activity data such as exercise data, sleep data, or pain data. In some examples, the remote data source 280 can communicate with one or more other computers, EMR software, fitness tracking software and / or apps, and health tracking software and / or apps. The remote data source 280 can process data from these sources (e g., EMR software, fitness, or health apps) to suggest stimulation programs (e.g., suggest stimulation parameters and treatment). The remote data source 280 can develop stimulation parameters and suggest stimulation treatment to the control device 220 based on the user activity data.

[0059] In some examples, the control device 220 can communicate stimulation parameters to the first and second modules 200 via a wireless connection 212 (e.g., a Wi-Fi® or Bluetooth® connection). The wireless connection 212 can be used to program, update, or control the modules 200. The first and second modules 200 can implement the stimulation parameters by delivering electrical currents to a user's body. The first module 200 can include a control electronics portion 230. The control electronics portion 230 can include circuitry to communicate with the control device 220. The circuitry can include a PCBA and / or a microprocessor. The microprocessor can process, read, store, or modify data or instructions between the components of the ESS 300 (e.g., the microprocessor can process communications from the control device 220). In some examples, the control electronics portion 230 is coupled to either connector assembly 100 of a module 200.

[0060] In some examples, each control electronics portion 230 receives stimulation parameters from the control device 220 via wireless connections 212. In some implementations, the first control electronics portion 230 receives stimulation parameters from the control device 220 via a wireless connection 212 and the second control electronics portion 230 can be driven by the first control electronics portion 230 via a wireless connection 215 between the first and second control electronics portions1353901856.1Atty. Docket No. 96509-6138230. The second control electronics portion 230 can receive stimulation parameters and synchronization parameters from the first control electronics portion 230.

[0061] In some examples, the control electronics portion 230 can be attached to a first electrode pad 160 by a first connector assembly 100. The control electronics portion 230 may be connected to a battery 240 by a cable 218. In some examples, the battery 240 can be attached to a second electrode pad 160 by a second connector assembly 100. In some embodiments, the battery 240 can be a rechargeable power source such as a lithium-ion batten’. The control electronics portion 230 generates the stimulation parameters communicated by the control device 220 using the battery 240 to induce a voltage difference between the first electrode pad 160 and the second electrode pad 160. The cable 218 can include one or more stimulation leads, a first electrical lead, and a second electrical lead.

[0062] In some examples, the connector assembly 100 connects the module 200 to the electrode pad 160. The connector assembly 100 creates a detachable electrical connection between the module 200 and the electrode pad 160. Examples of the connector assembly 100 are discussed in detail below. The connector assembly 100 can include any of the features described herein. For example, in the description of examples of the connector assembly 100 in FIGS. 2-11.

[0063] In some examples, each of the electrode pads 160 can be a self-adhesive electrode including a layer of conductive material on a flexible surface. The electrode pad 160 can include an adhesive gel on a proximal surface that is placed in contact with the skin of the user to temporarily adhere the electrode pad 160 to the user, and the adhesive gel typically is formulated to also provide good electrical conduction between the electrode pad 160 and the user's skin. In some embodiments, each of the electrode pads 160 can be a carbon-rubber electrode which can be coupled to the skin with a conductive gel applied to either the skin or the electrode pad 160. The electrode pads 160 can vary in size. For example, small pads (e.g., 1 inch by 1 inch, 1 inch round) can be used for treatment of smaller muscles or hard to reach locations, medium pads (e.g., 2 inch by 2 inch, 2 inch round) can be used for treatment of larger muscles or areas, and large pads (e.g., 2 inch by 4 inch) can be used for treatment of large muscle groups (e.g., hamstrings, quadriceps, or glutes).

[0064] FIG. IB is a schematic diagram of an example of an electrical stimulation system 300 (ESS). The ESS 300 includes a first housing 242 and a second housing 232.1453901856.1Atty. Docket No. 96509-6138Components of the ESS 300 are located in the first housing 242 or second housing 232, depending on the particular embodiment. Each of the first and second housing includes a module-side connector 102 that can be electrically and magnetically removably coupled to an electrode-side connector 104 (e.g.. a conductive stud) of an electrode pad 160, as discussed further below. Each module-side connector 102 connects to an electrode-side connector 104 to form a connector assembly 100.

[0065] In this illustrated example, a cable 218 is coupled between the first housing 242 and the second housing 232. The cable 218 has a plurality of electrical leads that connect components associated with, or in, the first housing 242 with components associated with, or in, the second housing 232. In this example, a battery 240 is positioned in the first housing 242, and a control electronics portion 230 is positioned in the second housing 232. The battery 240, control electronic portion 230, and cable 218 form a module 200 which can provide electrical stimulation to a pair of electrode pads 160. Cable 218 includes a first electrical lead 214 and a second electrical lead 216 to provide power from the battery 240 to the control electronics portion 230. The cable 218 can also include a first stimulation lead 210. The first stimulation lead 210 connects the control electronics portion 230 to the first electrode pad 160 via a first connector assembly 100. The second stimulation lead 210 connects the control electronics portion 230 to the second electrode pad 160 via a second connector assembly 100. Each connector assembly 100 includes a module-side connector I 02 and an electrode-side connector 104. Each module-side connector 102 can removably attach to an electrodeside connector 104 and form an electrical connection. The control electronics portion 230 and the battery 240 can each attach to a separate electrode pad 160 which advantageously allows for a smaller envelop of the components connected to each electrode pad 160. A control device 220 can communicate through a wired or wireless connection to the control electronics portion 230.

[0066] FIG. 1C is a schematic diagram of an example of an ESS 300 having a control device 220 including a module 200 having two electrical stimulation channels. The first electrode stimulation channel connects to a first stimulation lead 21 Oa ( e.g. an electrical wire) and a second stimulation lead 210a (e.g.. a second electrical wire) to the module 200. Each stimulation lead 210a is coupled to a connector assembly 100, which is coupled to an electrode pad 160. A first connector assembly 100 is coupled to the first stimulation lead 210a and removably coupled to afirst electrode pad 160. A second1553901856.1Atty. Docket No. 96509-6138 connector assembly 100a is coupled to the second stimulation lead 21 Oa and removably coupled to a second electrode pad 160. The second electrode stimulation channel connects to a first stimulation lead 210b (e.g., an electrical wire) and a second stimulation lead 210b (e.g., a second electrical wire) to the module 200. Each stimulation lead 210b is coupled to a connector assembly 100, which is coupled to an electrode pad 160. A first connector assembly 100 is coupled to the first stimulation lead 210b and removably coupled to a first electrode pad 160. A second connector assembly 100 is coupled to the second stimulation lead 21 Ob and removably coupled to a second electrode pad 160.

[0067] In some examples, the control device 220 communicates with module 200 to specify a stimulation treatment to be provided to one, both, or either one of the stimulation channels. The control device 220 can include any or all of the properties discussed above. The control device 220 can communicate with a remote data source 280. The remote data source 280 can include any or all of the properties discussed above.

[0068] In some examples, the module 200 can implement the stimulation parameters by delivering electrical currents to a user's body through the electrode leads 210 via one or more electrode pads 160. The module 200 can include a control electronics portion and a battery. The control electronics portions can generate the stimulation parameters communicated by the control device 220 using the batteries to induce a voltage difference between the first electrode pad 160 and the second electrode pad 160.

[0069] In some examples, the module 200 can include one or more lead sockets into which stimulation leads 210 can be attached. In some embodiments, the module 200 includes one, two, three, four, or more lead sockets. The lead sockets can each be programmed to provide separate electrical stimulation (e.g., each lead socket can provide pulses at its own frequency and rate), or the lead sockets can be programmed to provide a simultaneous simulation program. The control device 220 can communicate with the module 200 to provide instructions to each lead socket.

[0070] In some examples, the stimulation leads 210 electrically connect the module 200 to the electrode pads 160. The stimulation leads 210 are a wired connection between the module 200 and the electrode pad 160. The stimulation lead 210 can communicate electrical stimulation signals from the module 200 to the electrode pad 160.1653901856.1Atty. Docket No. 96509-6138

[0071] FIG. I D is a schematic diagram of an example of an ESS 300 having a control device 220 which communicates with a module 200. The control device 220 can communicate wirelessly via a wireless connection 212 with the module 200. The module 200 is coupled to a first stimulation lead 210 which is coupled to a first electrode pad 160 by a connector assembly 100. The module 200 is also coupled to a second stimulation lead 210 which is coupled to a second electrode pad 160 with a second connector assembly 100.

[0072] In some examples, the control device 220 communicates wirelessly with module 200 to specify a stimulation treatment to be provided. The control device 220 can include any or all of the properties discussed herein. The control device 220 can communicate with a remote data source 280. The remote data source 280 can include any or all of the properties discussed herein. In some examples, the module 200 can implement the stimulation parameters by delivering electrical currents to a user's body. The module 200 can include any or all of the properties discussed herein.

[0073] In some embodiments, the module 200 is compact (e.g., handheld or sized to clip onto activewear). The module 200 can include a clip or band to attach the module 200 to the user during a stimulation program. In some embodiments, the module 200 includes a water-resistant silicone sleeve. In some embodiment, the module 200 is water resistant (e.g., IPXI, IPX2, IPX3, or IPX4 water resistant).

[0074] FIG. IE is a schematic diagram of an example of an ESS 300 connected to a station 260. The station 260 can include a battery charging system, a communication system, a data logging system, or any combination thereof. The station 260 can function to charge the battery 240, transfer data from the control electronics portion 230 to the station 260, and / or update the system settings of the control electronics portion from the station 260.

[0075] The ESS 300 includes a first housing 242 and a second housing 232. Components of the ESS 300 are located in the first housing 242 or second housing 232, depending on the particular embodiment. Each of the first and second housing includes a module-side connector 102 that can be electrically and magnetically removably coupled to a station connector 105 (e.g., a conductive stud). Each module-side connector 102 connects to a station connector 105 to form a station assembly 101.

[0076] In this illustrated example, a cable 218 is coupled between the first housing 242 and the second housing 232. The cable 218 has a plurality of electrical leads that1753901856.1Atty. Docket No. 96509-6138 connect components associated with, or in, the first housing 242 with components associated with, or in, the second housing 232. In this example, a battery 240 is positioned in the first housing 242, and a control electronics portion 230 is positioned in the second housing 232. The battery 240. control electronic portion 230, and cable 218 form a module 200. Cable 218 includes a first electrical lead 214 and a second electrical lead 216 to provide power from the battery 240 to the control electronics portion 230. The cable 218 can also include a first stimulation lead 210. The first stimulation lead 210 connects the control electronics portion 230 to the station 260 via a first station assembly 101. The second stimulation lead 210 connects the control electronics portion 230 to the station 260 via a second station assembly 101. Each station In some examples, the station connector 105 is substantially the same shape as the electrode-side connector 104, such that each module-side connector 102 can removably and interchangeably attach to either the electrode-side connector I 04 or the station connector 105. In some examples, the station connector 105 can provide an electrical connection between the module 200 and the station 260. The electrical connection can facilitate charging of the battery 240. In some examples, the station connector 105 can provide a data connection assembly 101 includes a module-side connector 102 and a station connector 105. Each module side connector 102 can removably attach to a station connector 105 and form an electrical connection and / or a data connection between the module 200 and the station 260. The data connection can facilitate data transfer from the module 200 to the station 260 and from the station 260 to the module 200. In some examples, the station connector 105 can facilitate both a data connection and an electrical connection between the station 260 and the module 200.

[0077] While FIGS. 2-11 describe a connector assembly 100 including a module side connector 102 and an electrode-side connector 104, it should be understood that the examples of module-side connectors 102 described herein can additionally or alternatively engage with a station connector 105 to form a station assembly 101. The station connector 105 can include features substantially similar in both form and function to some or all of the features of the stud 140 described herein. The station connector 105 can thus removably connect to the module-side connector 102 in substantially the same fashion as the electrode side connector 104 can connect to the module-side connector 102.1853901856.1Atty. Docket No. 96509-6138

[0078] FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective section view of an example of a connector assembly 100. As illustrated, the connector assembly 100 is coupled to an electrode pad 160. The electrode pad 160 includes a proximal surface 164, which, when properly placed on a patient, is adjacent to the patient's skin. As described herein, proximal defines the direction towards the user and distal defines the direction towards a module 200. The connector assembly 100 includes an electrode-side connector 104 and a module-side connector 102, which removably electronically and mechanically (e.g., magnetically) couple to each other.

[0079] With continued reference to the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 2, in some examples, the module-side connector 102 includes a housing 110, a magnet 130 positioned within the housing 110, and a cap 120 positioned within the housing 110 and at a distal end of the magnet 130.

[0080] In some examples, the housing 110 has a sidewall 117, a base wall 119 positioned at a proximal end of the sidewall 117, and a detent 114 extending distally from the base wall 119. The detent 114 can be positioned at the center of the base wall 119. As illustrated, the sidewall 117 and base wall 119 give the housing 110 an open- ended cylindrical shape which is capped at a proximal end by the base wall 119 and open at a distal end. The base wall 119 has a distal surface 115 positioned inside the housing 110 and a proximal surface 113 positioned outside the housing 110. The detent 114 extends distally inward (e.g., the detent is concave) into the base wall 119 and has a curved shape. The detent 114 has a distal detent surface 118 positioned inside the housing 110 and a proximal detent surface 116 positioned outside the housing 110. A plurality of extensions 112 are positioned around the distal edge of the sidewall 117 and extend distally. The extensions 112 can be used for a variety of purposes, for example: connecting a module 200 to the module-side connector 102; connecting a stimulation lead 210 to the module-side connector 102; and / or connecting a casing around the housing 110.

[0081] In some examples, the housing 110 is formed from an electrically conductive, non-ferrous material (e.g., aluminum, copper, nickel, carbon fiber or austenitic stainless steel) so that electrical current can pass from an electrode lead or module and into the housing. In some embodiments, the housing 110 is formed from an electrically conductive ferrous material (e g., steel). In some examples the housing 110 is rectangular, ovular, or another shape. In some examples, the curved shape of the detent1953901856.1Atty. Docket No. 96509-6138114 can be a spherical cap (e.g., a portion of a sphere or a hemisphere), a paraboloid, or a bell-shaped detent, so long as the corresponding shapes, of the detent 114 and the protruding portion surface 148 on the module-side connector 102, allows the moduleside connector 102 to move in three dimensions relative to the electrode-side connector 104 and maintain an electrical connection.

[0082] As illustrated, in some examples, the magnet 130 is an annular magnet positioned inside the housing 110. The magnet 130 can include an outer radial surface 138. an inner radial surface 136 positioned inward from the outer radial surface 138, a proximal surface 134 connecting the outer radial surface 138 to the inner radial surface 136 at a proximal end, and a distal surface 132 connecting the outer radial surface 138 to the inner radial surface 136, thereby forming the annular shape of the magnet 130. The outer radial surface 138 is positioned adjacent to the sidewall 117 of the housing 110. The inner radial surface 136 is positioned around the distal detent surface 118. The proximal surface 134 is adjacent to the distal surface 115 of the housing 110, and the distal surface 132 faces the open end of the housing 110. In some embodiments, the magnet can be a ring magnet, a plurality of bar magnets, a pot magnet, a button magnet, a circular magnet, or any other type of or shaped magnet.

[0083] With continued reference to the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 2, in some examples, a cap 120 is positioned over the distal surface 132 of the magnet 130 and in the housing 110. In some examples, the cap 120 is a cylinder which has a larger radius than width (e.g., the cap 120 is wider than it is tall). The cap 120 includes proximal surface 128 at a proximal end, a distal surface 122 at a distal end, and a cap protrusion 124 which is positioned in the middle of a proximal surface 128 of the cap 120. The cap protrusion 124 extends proximally from the proximal surface 128 and includes a proximal protrusion surface 126 at the most proximal end of the cap protrusion 124. The proximal surface 128 of the cap 120 is positioned adjacent to the distal surface 132 of the magnet 130. The distal surface 122 faces the open end of the housing 110. The cap protrusion 124 extends proximally towards the distal detent surface 118 of the detent 114 such that a proximal protrusion surface 126 of the cap protrusion 124 is adjacent to the distal detent surface 118.

[0084] In some examples, the cap 120 can be made from a ferrous metal (e.g., steel, carbon steel, ferritic stainless steel, or cast iron). In some embodiments, the cap protrusion 124 is cylindrical. In some embodiments, the proximal protrusion surface2053901856.1Atty. Docket No. 96509-6138126 can be curved to conform with the distal detent surface 1 18 of the detent 114. In some embodiments, the proximal protrusion surface 126 can be planar (flat), or substantially planar.

[0085] In some examples, the electrode-side connector 104 includes a stud 140 and a post 150. In some examples, the electrode-side connector 104 can be permanently or semi permanently coupled to the electrode pad 160. As illustrated, the post 150 passes through the electrode pad 160 from a proximal surface 164 towards a distal surface 162 and attaches to a stud 140 thereby forming a permanent or semi -permanent attachment to the electrode pad 160.

[0086] In some examples, the proximal surface 164 of the electrode pad 160 is positioned adjacent to the user's skin, when properly applied to a user. The distal surface 162 of the electrode pad 160 is spaced apart from the proximal surface 164. A thru-hole 161 passes through the middle of the of the proximal surface 164 and the distal surface 162. A proximal inset surface 168 surrounds the thru-hole 161 at a proximal end of the electrode pad 160, and a distal inset surface 166 surrounding the thru-hole 161 at a distal end of the electrode pad 160.

[0087] As illustrated, in some examples the stud 140 includes the protruding portion 142 (e.g., a convex portion). A stud flange 144 can be positioned at a proximal end of the protruding portion 142 and the protruding portion 142 extends distally from the stud flange 144. A female snap fit 143 passes through the stud flange 144 and extends distally into the interior of the protruding portion 142. The protruding portion 142 has a protruding portion surface 148 positioned at the distal end of the protruding portion 142. The protruding portion surface 148 is a smooth curved surface having the shape of a spherical cap ( e.g., a portion of a sphere or a hemisphere). The stud flange 144 can be a cylinder and has a larger radius than width (e.g., the stud flange can be substantially wider than it is tall). The stud flange 144 can be wider than the protruding portion 142 and includes a proximal surface 145 at its proximal end.

[0088] In this example, the stud flange 144 is inset into the distal surface 162 of the electrode pad 160 with the proximal surface 145 positioned adjacent to the distal inset surface 166 of the electrode pad 160. The post 150 connects to the female snap fit 143 of the stud 140, thereby forming a permanent or semi-permanent attachment to the electrode pad.2153901856.1Atty. Docket No. 96509-6138

[0089] In some examples, the protruding portion 142 connects to the detent 1 14 of the housing 110. The protruding portion surface 148 can be positioned adjacent to the proximal detent surface 116. The protruding portion 142 has a complementary shape to and fits within the detent 114 (e.g., the detent is an engagement portion, and the protruding portion can be a complementary engagement portion). The protruding portion 142 and the detent 114 can each form a portion of a ball joint (e.g., the detent can be a spherical cap and capture a spherical cap of the protruding portion 142). The protruding portion 142 can be taller than the detent 114.

[0090] In some examples, the stud 140 can be formed from a ferrous and electrically conductive material (e g., steel or stainless steel) so that the protruding portion 142 can be magnetically attracted to the magnet 130 and the stud 140 can conduct the electricity from the housing 110 to the electrode pad 160. In some embodiments, the protruding portion 142 can have a convex curved shape such as a spherical cap (e.g.. a portion of a sphere or a hemisphere), a paraboloid, or a bell-shaped protrusion.

[0091] As illustrated in the example of FIG. 2, the post 150 can include a male snap fit 153 and a post flange 152 positioned at a proximal end of the male snap fit 153. The male snap fit 153 can have an elongate cylindrical shape and extends distally from the center of the post flange 152. A snap fit engagement 154 (e.g., a radial protrusion configured to form an interference fit with the female snap fit 143) can be positioned near the distal end of the male snap fit 153. The post flange 152 can be a cylinder and has a larger radius than width (e.g., the post flange is substantially wider than it is tall) and includes a distal surface 155 at the distal end of the post flange 152. In some embodiments, the post 150 can be formed from aluminum, copper, steel, stainless steel, titanium, ABS, or another material.

[0092] In some examples, the male snap fit 153 extends distally into the female snap fit 143 to create a snap fit connection. The post flange 152 is inset into the proximal surface 164 with the distal surface 155 positioned adjacent to the proximal inset surface 168 of the electrode pad 160. The stud flange 144 and the post flange 152 sandwich a portion of the electrode pad 160 when the male snap fit 153 engages with the female snap fit 143. The snap fit engagement 154 engages the female snap fit 143 via an interference fit to hold the stud 140 to the post 150.

[0093] In some examples, the stud 140 includes the male snap fit and the proximal snap fit portion includes the female snap fit. In some embodiments, the stud 140 can2253901856.1Atty. Docket No. 96509-6138 attach to the post 150 with a connection method other than a snap fit. For example, a screw connection, or a rivet connection. In some embodiments, one or more of the features disclosed in FIG. 2 for the module-side connector can be implemented in the electrode-side connector, and one or more of the features disclosed of the electrodeside connector can be implemented in the module-side connector. For example, in some embodiments the electrode-side connector can include a concave detent having a curved surface ( e.g., a hemispherical surface) and the module side connector can include a protruding stud having a hemispherical-shaped surface corresponding to the shape of the detent to allow 3D movement of the module-side connector relative to the electrodeside connector. In some embodiments, the electrode-side connector can include a magnet.

[0094] FIG. 3 shows a perspective section view of an example of a connector assembly 100. The connector assembly 100 can include any of the features described above with regard to FIG. 2. As illustrated, the module-side connector 102 of the connector assembly 100 includes a casing 180 and a cover 190 positioned around a housing 110. A cover 190 is attached to a distal end of the casing 180. A magnet 130 is positioned within the housing 110 and is covered by a cap 120. A connection pin 195 extends distally outward through the cover 190 and contacts the housing 110. As illustrated, the module-side connector 102 is attached to an electrode-side connector 104, thereby attaching the connector assembly 100 to the electrode pad 160.

[0095] As illustrated, in some examples, the casing 180 is saucer shaped. The casing 180 includes a distal surface 184 and a proximal surface 186. The distal surface 184 can be planar, or substantially planar. The proximal surface 186 is curved which causes the saucer shape of the casing 180 to be wider towards its center at the proximal end and narrower towards the edges of the proximal end of the casing 180. Near the center of the casing 180, is a cavity 188. The cavity 188 is cylindrical in shape and extends through the distal surface 184. The cavity 188 has a floor 183 and a central opening 185. The central opening 185 passes through the proximal surface 186. A plurality of cover connectors 182 extend distally out of the distal surface 184. The cover connectors are positioned around the perimeter of the cavity 188.

[0096] In some examples, the casing 180 can be non-magnetic and non-conductive. The casing 180 can advantageously reduce the risk of electrical pulses flowing2353901856.1Atty. Docket No. 96509-6138 anywhere other than through the electrode pad 1 0 (e g., shocking a user if the user's hand inadvertently contacts the casing).

[0097] In some examples, the cover 190 is positioned distal from the casing 180. The cover 190 includes a cover flange 191 and a dome 193 which extends distally from the center of the cover 190. The dome 193 is hollow with the inside of the dome 193 forming a cavity 196. The cover flange 191 includes a proximal surface 194. The proximal surface 194 extends distally into the dome 193. The cover 190 includes a plurality of openings 192 spaced around the perimeter of the dome 193. The openings 192 passes through the cover 190. The cover 190 includes a port 198. The port 198 is a clearance hole through the cover 190.

[0098] In some examples, the cover 190 can be non-magnetic and non-conductive. The cover 190 can advantageously reduce the risk of electrical pulses flowing anywhere other than through the electrode pad 160 (e.g., shocking a user if the user's hand inadvertently contacts the cover).

[0099] In some examples, the proximal surface 194 of the cover 190 is positioned adjacent to the distal surface 184 of the casing 180. Each of the cover connectors 182 can correspond to one of the plurality of openings 192. The cover connectors 182 of the casing 180 can pass through the plurality of openings 192 in the cover 190. In some embodiments, the cover connectors 182 can be pins which removably connect the casing 180 to the cover 190. In some embodiments, the cover connectors 182 can be rivets, dowels, screws, or snap fit connectors which can connect the casing 180 to the cover 190. In some embodiments, the casing 180 can attach to the cover 190 by brazing the components together, adhering the components to one another, or welding the components together. In some embodiments, the cover 190 can snap into the casing 180.

[0100] In some examples, the housing 110 is positioned within the cavity 188 in the casing 180. As illustrated, the housing 110 includes a housing flange 111 which can extend radially outward from the sidewall 117. The housing flange 111 can extend around the perimeter of the sidewall 117. The cover connectors 182 pass through the housing flange 111 of the housing 110 and can hold the housing 110. The housing flange 111 is sandwiched between the casing 180 and the cover 190. The magnet 130 is positioned within the housing 110 and the cap 120 is positioned distal to the magnet 130.2453901856.1Atty. Docket No. 96509-6138

[0101] In some examples, the curvature of the proximal surface 186 can include a portion with the same curvature as the proximal detent surface 116 of the housing 110. The curvature of the proximal surface 186, can advantageously guide the mating of the protruding portion 142 of the stud 140 with the detent 114 of the housing 110 and improving the ease of aligning the module-side connector 102 to the electrode-side connector 104. The shape of the proximal surface 186 can thereby form a self-centering connection between the protruding portion 142 and the detent 114.

[0102] In some examples, the connection pin 195 can conduct electrical energy from a module 200 to the electrode pad 160. In some examples, the connection pin 195 is a thin flat strip of material which extends distally while forming an inward radial curve. The connection pin 195 can include a connection pin protrusion 197 near the apex of the radial curve.

[0103] In some examples, the connection pin 195 is position distal and adjacent to the housing flange 111 and curves distally and radially inward towards the midpoint of the module-side connector 102 through the port 198 such that the connection pin 195 contacts the housing flange 111 and is spaced apart from the cover 190, cap 120, and all the other components of the connector assembly 100. The connection pin 195 fits within a cavity 199 of the cover 190. The connection pin protrusion 197 can be used to connect an electrode lead to the connector assembly 100. The connection pin 195 can act as a spring which can hold the connection pin 195 onto a module 200.

[0104] In some examples, the connection pin 195 is formed from a conductive material. In some embodiments, the connection pin 195 can include an insulating material (e.g., insulating coating) covering the majority of the surface of the connection pin 195. In some embodiments, the connection pin 195 can include an insulative material covering all but the connection pin protrusion 197 and the portion of the connection pin 195 in contact with the housing flange 111. In some embodiments, the connection pin 195 can pass directly through the center of the cover 190. In some embodiments, the connection pin protrusion 197 can be a hole, a clamp, a snap, a spring or another connection means well known in the art.

[0105] In some embodiments, the cover 190 can include a module 200 which can connect to and / or contact the connection pin 195. In some examples, a module 200 can attach directly to the cover 190. In some embodiments, the module 200 can generate pulses which can pass through the connection pin 195 and into the electrode pad 160.2553901856.1Atty. Docket No. 96509-6138

[0106] FIG. 4 shows a perspective section view of an example of a connector assembly 100 and illustrates a variety of dimensions relating to the connector assembly 100 illustrated in FIG. 2. The dimensions provided below (and throughout this disclosure) are examples of certain embodiments, other dimensions are also possible that provide the functionality described herein. The housing 110 has a nominal internal diameter B. The cap 120 has a nominal external diameter B. Diameter B can be between about 10 and 15 mm, for example 13 mm. The proximal detent surface 116 has a nominal radius A The protruding portion surface 148 also has a nominal radius A Radius A can be between about 4 and 8 mm. for example 6 mm. The magnet 130 has a height C. The height C can be between about 1.5 and 5 mm, for example 3 mm. The magnet 130 has an inner diameter ID. The inner diameter ID can be between about 5 and 9 mm, for example 7 mm. Inner diameter ID can be slightly larger than two times radius A The magnet 130 has an outer diameter OD. The outer diameter OD can be between about 9 and 14 mm, for example 12 mm. The outer diameter OD can be slightly smaller than the nominal internal diameter B. The proximal detent surface 116 has a height I measured from the proximal surface 113 to the most distal point of the proximal detent surface 116. The height I can be between about 1.8 and 2.5 mm. for example 2.2 mm. There is a height G measured from the distal surface 162 to the proximal surface 113. The heigh G can be between about 0.7 and 2 mm, for example 1.5 mm. There is a height F measured from the most proximal part of the proximal surface 186 to the most proximal edge of the protruding portion surface 148. The height F can be between about 0.7 and 2 mm, for example 1.5 mm. The cap protrusion has a height E measured from the distal surface 122 to the proximal protrusion surface 126. The height E can be between about 0.8 and 1.8 mm, for example 1.2 mm. There is a height J measured from the most distal surface of the cover 190 to the distal surface 162. The height J can be between about 6 and 10 mm, for example 8 mm. The cap protrusion has a diameter H which can be between about 3 and 5 mm, for example 3.8 mm.

[0107] FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective section view of an example of a connector assembly 100 including a module-side connector 102 and an electrode-side connector 104. As illustrated in FIG. 5, the magnet 130 includes a proximal pole 135 and a distal pole 137. The proximal pole 135 is positioned adjacent to the base wall 119 of the housing 110. The distal pole 137 is positioned adjacent to the cap 120. The cap 120 is formed from a ferrous metal. The distal pole 137 magnetizes the cap 120. The cap2653901856.1Atty. Docket No. 96509-6138 protrusion 124 and the proximal pole 135 generate a magnetic field 133 through the detent 114. This magnetic field 133 attracts the protruding portion 142 of the stud 140. The protruding portion 142 is formed from a ferrous metal. The magnetic connection between the protruding portion 142 and the detent 114 creates a strong and removable connection. As the protruding portion surface 148 is moved away from the proximal detent surface 116, the strength of the connection weakens. When the protruding portion surface 148 is adjacent to the proximal detent surface 116, the magnetic field 133 holds the protruding portion 142 in the detent 114 regardless of the orientation of the housing 110 to the stud 140.

[0108] In some examples, the connection between the module-side connector 102 and the electrode-side connector 104 has a pull-off force, which is the force required to disconnect the module-side connector 102 from the electrode-side connector 104. The pull-off force can be between 8 N and 20 N, for example 10 Nor 13 N. The pull-off force can be greater than 20 times the weight of the module 200.

[0109] FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of an example connector assembly 100 and shows the freedom of movement of the connector assembly 100. The connector assembly 100 includes a module-side connector 102 magnetically connected to an electrode-side connector 104. The electrode-side connector 104 is connected to an electrode pad 160. As illustrated, the magnetic connection, describe in detail with regard to FIG. 5, allows the module-side connector 102 to maintain a connection with the electrode-side connector as the module-side connector 102 moves. The module-side connector 102 can have rotational movement 172, where the module-side connector spins relative to electrode-side connector 104. The protruding portion 14 2 of the electrode-side connector 104 is tall er than the detent 114 (not pictured) of the moduleside connector 102. This height difference allows the module-side connector 102 to also have tilt movement 170, where the module-side connector 102 tilts relative to the electrode-side connector 104. Because module-side connector 102 can have both tilt movement 170 and rotational movement 172, the module-side connector 102 can make non-planar movements relative to the electrode-side connector 104.

[0110] FIGS. 7 and 8 illustrate a perspective view of examples of connector assemblies 100 having a module-side connector 102 and an electrode-side connector 104 and illustrating the tilt movement 170 of the connector assembly 100. The moduleside connector 102 is magnetically connected to the electrode-side connector 104. The2753901856.1Atty. Docket No. 96509-6138 electrode-side connector 104 is connected to an electrode pad 1 0. As illustrated, the magnetic connection described in detail with regard to FIG. 5 allows the module-side connector 102 to maintain a connection with the electrode-side connector 104 as the module-side connector 102 moves.

[0111] As illustrated in FIG. 7, in some examples, the connector assembly 100 includes a module-side connector 102 which includes a housing 110 positioned within a casing 180. The module-side connector 102 can have tilt movement 170 which is limited by the proximal surface 186. At the limit of the tilt movement 170, the proximal surface 186 contacts the stud flange 144 of the electrode-side connector. As illustrated, the module-side connector 102 can tilt up to an angle K from parallel to the electrodeside connector 104. In some embodiments, the angle K is between about 5 and 25 degrees. For example, the angle K can be 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, or 24 degrees or any value therebetween.

[0112] As illustrated in FIG. 8, in some examples, the module-side connector 102 can have tilt movement 170 which is limited by the housing 110 of the module-side connector 102 contacting the stud flange 144 of the electrode-side connector 104. As illustrated, the module-side connector 102 can tilt up to an angle K from parallel to the electrode-side connector 104. In some embodiments, the angle K is between about 5 and 25 degrees. For example, the angle K can be 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, or 24 degrees or any value therebetween.

[0113] FIG. 9A and 9B illustrate an example connector assembly 100. FIG. 9A is a perspective view of an example of the connector assembly 100. As illustrated, the connector assembly 100 includes a module-side connector 102 which is magnetically and electrically attached to a distal end of an electrode-side connector 104. The proximal end of the electrode side connector is attached to an electrode pad 160. The module-side connector 102 is connected to a stimulation lead 210. The stimulation lead 210 can convey electrical pulses from a module 200 to the module-side connector 102. The module-side connector 102 can convey the electrical pulses to the electrode-side connector 104, which can distribute the electrical pulse through the electrode pad 160. The module-side connector 102 includes a cover 290. A plug 292 projects from the side of the cover 290. The stimulation lead 210 attaches to the plug 292. The module-side connector 102 can have tilt movement 170 and rotational movement 172 as described herein.2853901856.1Atty. Docket No. 96509-6138

[0114] FIG. 9B illustrates a section perspective view of an example of the connector assembly 100. As illustrated, the module-side connector 102 includes a housing 110 which holds a magnet 130. A cap 120 is positioned over the distal end of the magnet 130 and contacts a distal surface of a divot in the housing 110. A cover 290 is positioned over a distal end of the cap 120.

[0115] In some examples, the cover 290 is generally cylindrical in shape and includes a sidewall 294 which defines the perimeter of the cover 290 and a distal surface 296 which defines the proximal end of the cover 290. The cover 290 includes a cavity 298 which extends into the cover 290 from a proximal end of the cover 290 towards the distal surface 296. The cover 290 can be open at the proximal end. A plug 292 extends outward from the sidewall 294. The plug 292 is a hollow cylinder and includes an internal surface 293. A port 291 passes from the cavity 298 through the sidewall 294 and into the plug 292.

[0116] In some examples, the housing 110 is positioned within the cavity 298 of the cover 290. As illustrated, the housing 110 includes a housing flange 111 which can extend radially outward from the sidewall 117. The housing flange 111 is narrow and extends from a portion of the perimeter of the distal end of the sidewall 117. The housing flange 111 extends through the port 291 and into the plug 292.

[0117] In some examples, a stimulation lead 210 attaches to the plug 292. The stimulation lead 210 includes an electrically conductive wire 211 and a coating 213 surrounding the wire 211. The coating 213 can be insulative. A proximal end of the wire 211 can extend out of the coating 213. A proximal end of the stimulation lead 210 is positioned within the plug 292. The coating 213 contacts the internal surface 293. The coating 213 can have a size-on-size diameter with the internal surface 293. The coating 213 can have an interference fit with the internal surface 293. The coating 213 can attach to the internal surface 293 with adhesive. The exposed proximal end of the wire 211 is positioned within the plug 292 and can contact the housing flange 111.

[0118] FIG. 10 illustrates an example of an embodiment of an electrode-side connector 104. The electrode-side connector 104 includes a stud 140 and a backing washer 158 positioned at the proximal end of the stud 140. The stud 140 includes a protruding portion 142. A protrusion rim 149 is positioned at the proximal end of the protruding portion 142. The protrusion rim 149 extends radially around the proximal end of the protruding portion 142. A stud flange 144 is positioned at the proximal end of the2953901856.1Atty. Docket No. 96509-6138 protrusion rim 149. The stud flange 144 is flat and extends radially outward. An extension portion 147 extends proximally outward from the middle of the stud flange 144. A washer flange 146 is positioned at a proximal end of the extension portion 147. The backing washer 158 is a wide flat washer with a central opening.

[0119] In some examples, the stud flange 144 is positioned adjacent to the distal surface 162 of the electrode pad 160. The wide flat shape of the stud flange 144 inhibits the electrode-side connector 104 from pulling through the electrode pad 160. The extension portion 147 extends through the electrode pad 160 and the backing washer 158. The protrusion rim 149 is positioned on the proximal side of the backing washer 158 and presses the backing washer 158 against the electrode pad 160 forming a permanent or semi-permanent connection of the electrode-side connector 104 to the electrode pad 160.

[0120] In some examples, the protrusion rim 149 can be a rivet which has been pressed / fastened around the backing washer 158. In some examples, the protrusion rim 149 can be a snap fit engagement element and the protrusion rim 149 can include a slanted proximal surface to facilitate pressing the electrode pad 160 and backing washer 158 over the protrusion rim 149 and into position around the stud 140.

[0121] FIG. 11 illustrates an example of a stud 140. The stud 140 includes a protruding portion 142. The protruding portion 142 can be a spherical cap (e.g., a portion of a sphere, or a hemisphere). The protruding portion 142 can include a smooth surface. The protruding portion 142 can have a radius A Radius A can be between about 1 and 4 mm, for example 3 mm. The protruding portion 142 can have a height N of between about 1 and 4 mm, for example 2.8, 2.9, 3, or 3.1 mm. The stud 140 can have a height M from a proximal surface 145 to the most distal point of the protruding portion 142. The height M can be between about 3.5 and 6mm, for example, about 4.2, 4.3, 4.4, 4.5, 4.6, 4.7, or 4.8 mm. The protruding portion 142 can have a maximum width of T. Width T can be between about 2 and 8 mm, for example 6 mm. The stud 140 can include a protrusion rim 149 positioned at a proximal end of the protruding portion 142. The protrusion rim 149 extends radially outward and extends circumferentially around the protruding portion 142. The protrusion rim 149 can have a width (e.g. diameter) of about 3-9 mm, for example 7 mm. A stud flange 144 is positioned at a proximal end of the protrusion rim 149. The stud flange 144 has a wide and flat cylindrical shape ( e.g., the radius of the stud flange 144 is substantially larger than the height). The stud flange 144 can have3053901856.1Atty. Docket No. 96509-6138 a height of S. Height Scan be between about 0.2 and 2 mm, for example, 0.5 mm. The stud flange 144 can have a width (e.g. diameter) 0. The width O can be between about 7 and 12 mm, for example, 10 mm. The stud 140 can include an extension portion 147 which extends proximally from a proximal surface 145 of the stud flange 144. The extension portion 147 is a thin-walled cylindrical portion. The extension portion 147 can have a height V measured from proximal surface 145 to the most proximal end of the extension portion 147. Height V can be between about 1 and 4 mm, for example 1.5 mm. The extension portion 147 can include a tapered portion 141 at its proximal end. The tapered portion 141 has progressively thinner walls towards the proximal end of the extension portion 147. The tapered portion 141 can have a height between about 0.5 and 2 mm, for example 0.75 mm. The extension portion 147 has a width (e.g. diameter) of P. The width P can be between about 2 and 3 mm, for example 2.4, 2.5, 2.6, 2.7, or 2.8 mm. The tapered portion 141 can have a minimum width of Q. The width Q can be between about 1.5 and 3 mm, for example 1.9, 2, 2.1, 2.2, or 2.3 mm. The extension portion 147 can have an internal width (e.g., diameter) of R. The width R can be between about 1.5 and 2.5 mm, for example, 1.6, 1.7, 1.8, 1.9, or 2 mm. The tapered portion 141 can be a rivet flange that has yet to be pressed into shape.

[0122] FIG. 12A illustrates a perspective section view of an example of a station assembly 101 which includes a pair of module side connectors 102-1 and 102-2 coupled to a pair of station connectors 105-1 and 105-2 on a station 260. The station 260 can include a battery charging system, a communication system, a data logging system, or any combination thereof. The station 260 can function to charge a battery of the module side connector 102-1 or 102-2, transfer data from a control electronics portion connected to one of the module side connectors 102-1 or 102-2 to the station 260, and / or update the system settings of a control electronics portion connected to one of the module side connectors 102-1 or 102-2 from the station 260. The pair of station connectors 105-1 and 105-2 can each provide an electrical and / or data connection between the module side connectors 102-1 and 102-2 and the station 260.

[0123] Each module side connector 102-1 and 102-2 can include any of the features of a module side connector 102 described herein. As described herein, distal defines the direction towards the module side connectors 102-1 and 102-2 and proximal defines the direction towards the center of the station 260. As illustrated, the first module side connector 102-1 is positioned on a first side of the station 260 and the second module3153901856.1Atty. Docket No. 96509-6138 side connector 102-2 is positioned on a second side of the station 260. In other examples, both module side connectors 102-1 and 102-2 can be positioned on one side of the station 260.

[0124] In some examples, the station 260 includes a station housing 370 which can protect the electronic components of the station 260. A station connector 105-1 can be attached to the station housing 370. The station connector 105-1 can provide and an electrical and / or data connection between the module side connector 102-1 and the station 260. The station connector 105-1 can include a stud 140-1. The stud 140-1 can be positioned on a distal side of a first surface 380-1 on the first side of a station housing 370. The stud 140-1 can include any and / or all of the features of the stud 140 described herein. An electrical lead 265-1 can pass through the first stud 140-1 and extend proximally into the station housing 370. The electrical lead 265-1 can attach to a connector pin 295-1 which can electrically connect to an electronics module 350 of the station 260 to the electrical lead 265-1. The electronics module 350 can include the charging and / or data transfer components of the station 260. A magnet 330-1 can be positioned on a proximal side of the first surface 380-1. The magnet 330-1 includes a proximal pole 335-1 and a distal pole 337-1. The proximal pole 335-1 is positioned proximal from the first surface 380-1 and the distal pole 337-1 is positioned adjacent to the first surface 380-1. The magnet 330-1 can magnetize the stud 140-1.

[0125] A magnet 130-1 of the first module side connector 102-1 includes a proximal pole 135-1 and a distal pole 137-1. The proximal pole 135-1 is positioned adjacent to the housing 110-1. The distal pole 137-1 is positioned adjacent to the cap 120-1. The cap 120-1 is formed from a ferrous metal. The distal pole 137-1 magnetizes the cap 120 and attracts the module side connector 102-1 to the stud 140-1.

[0126] The magnet 330-1 and the magnet 130-1 can each be oriented so that the magnetic field generated by the magnet 330-1 generates an attractive force to the magnet 130-1. For example, the proximal pole 335-1 can be a positive pole and the distal pole 337-1 can be a negative pole while the proximal pole 13 5-1 can be a positive pole and the distal pole 137-1 can be a negative pole.

[0127] A station connector 105-2 can be attached to the station housing 370. The station connector 105-2 can provide and an electrical and / or data connection between the module side connector 102-2 and the station 260. The station connector 105-2 can include a stud 140-2. The stud 140-2 can be positioned on a distal side of a second3253901856.1Atty. Docket No. 96509-6138 surface 380-2 on the second side of a station housing 370. The stud 140-2 can include any and / or all of the features of the stud 140 described herein. An electrical lead 265-2 can pass through the second stud 140-2 and proximally into the station housing 370. The electrical lead 265-2 can attach to a connector pin 295-2 which can electrically connect which can electrically connect to an electronics module 350 of the station 260 to the electrical lead 265-2. The electronics module 350 can include the charging and / or data transfer components of the station 260. A magnet 330-2 can be positioned on a proximal side of the second surface 380-2. The magnet 330-2 includes a proximal pole 335-2 and a distal pole 337-2. The proximal pole 335-2 is positioned proximal from the second surface 380-2 and the distal pole 337-2 is positioned adjacent to the second surface 380-2. The magnet 330-2 can magnetize the stud 140-2.

[0128] The magnet 130-2 of the second module side connector 102-2 includes a proximal pole 135-2 and a distal pole 137-2. The proximal pole 135-2 is positioned adjacent to the housing 110-2. The distal pole 137-2 is positioned adjacent to the cap 120-2. The cap 120 is formed from a ferrous metal. The distal pole 137-2 magnetizes the cap 120 and attracts the module side connector 102-2 to the stud 140-2.

[0129] The magnet 330-2 and the magnet 130-2 can each be oriented so that the magnetic field generated by the magnet 330-2 generates an attractive force to the magnet 130-2. For example, the proximal pole 335-2 can be a negative pole and the distal pole 337-2 can be a positive pole while the proximal pole 135-2 can be a negative pole and the distal pole 137-2 can be a positive pole.

[0130] In some examples, the magnets 130-1. 130-2, 330-1, and 330-2 can be oriented so that each of the module side connectors 102-1 and 102-2 will be attracted to one of the studs 140-1 or 140-2 and be repelled from the other stud 140-1 or 140-2. This orientation advantageously provides for a fool-proof connection of the proper module side connector to the proper stud. The magnet 130-2 can be in the opposite orientation as the magnet 130-1. For example, the proximal pole 135-2 can be a negative pole and the proximal pole 135-1 can be a positive pole. The magnet 330-1 can be in the opposite orientation as the magnet 330-1. For example, the proximal pole 335-2 can be anegative pole and the proximal pole 335-1 can be a positive pole. With this orientation of the magnets, the first module side connector 102-1 will be attracted to the first stud 140-1 and the first module side connector 102-1 will be repelled from the second stud 140-2. Additionally, with this orientation of the magnets, the second module side connector3353901856.1Atty. Docket No. 96509-6138102-2 will be attracted to the second stud 140-2 and the second module side connector 102-2 will be repelled from the first stud 140-1. This fool-proof connection of the proper module side connector to the proper stud can advantageously assure the module side connectors are properly attached for charging, data transfer, or any other function of the station.

[0131] FIG. 12B illustrates a detailed perspective section view of a station connector 105. In some examples, the station connector 105 includes a stud 140 and an electrical lead 265. In some examples, station connector 105 can be permanently or semi permanently coupled to a distal side of a station 260. For example, the stud can be adhered, bolted, or threaded onto to the station 260. As illustrated, the electrical lead 265 passes through a thru-hole 384 in a surface 380 of the station 260 from a distal side to a proximal side and attaches to the stud 140 positioned on the proximal side of the surface 380.

[0132] As illustrated, in some examples the stud 140 includes the protruding portion 142 (e.g., a convex portion). The electrical lead 265 extends distally through the protruding portion 142. In some examples, the electrical lead 265 can extend out of the protruding portion 142 so that the electrical lead 265 can directly contact a module side connector. In some embodiments, the protruding portion 142 can have a convex curved shape such as a spherical cap (e.g., a portion of a sphere or a hemisphere), a paraboloid, or a bell shaped protrusion. A stud flange 144 can be positioned at a proximal end of the protruding portion 142 and the protruding portion 142 extends distally from the stud flange 144. The stud flange 144 can be a cylinder and has a larger radius than width ( e.g., the stud flange can be substantially wider than it is tall). The stud flange 144 can be wider than the protruding portion 142. In this example, the stud flange 144 is inset into the surface 380 of the station 260.

[0133] In some examples, the stud 140 can be formed from a ferrous and electrically conductive material (e.g., steel or stainless steel) so that the stud 140 can conduct the electricity from the system 260 to a module side connector 102.

[0134] A housing 382 is positioned on the proximal side of the surface 380. The housing 382 can be concentric with the thru-hole 384. The housing 382 can be integral to the surface 380 can include an open-ended cylindrical shape which is capped at a distal end by the surface 380 and open at a proximal end. A magnet 330 can be positioned in the housing 382. As illustrated, in some examples, the magnet 330 is an3453901856.1Atty. Docket No. 96509-6138 annular magnet positioned inside the housing 382. In some embodiments, the magnet can be a ring magnet, a plurality of bar magnets, a pot magnet, a button magnet, a circular magnet, or any other type of or shaped magnet.

[0135] With continued reference to the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 12B. in some examples, the electrical lead 265 extends proximally past the magnet 330 and contacts a connector pin 295. The connector pin 295 contacts an electronics module 350 of the station 260. The electronics module 350 can include one or more processors, charging circuitry’, a memory, and data transfer components.

[0136] In some examples, the station connector 105 can provide an electrical connection between a module side connector 102 and the station 260. The electrical connection can facilitate charging of a battery’ connected to the module side connector 102. In some examples, the station connector 105 can provide a data connection between the module side connector 102 and the station 260. The data connection can facilitate data transfer from the module side connector 102 to the station 260 and from the station 260 to the module side connector 102. In some examples, the station connector 105 can facilitate both a data connection and an electrical connection between the station 260 and the module side connector 102.

[0137] FIG. 13A shows an example of a charging system 401 that can be used for charging a stimulation device. Although the embodiments described here are in reference to a stimulation device (e.g., stimulation device 403), the charging system and components disclosed can be utilized in other types of stimulation devices and mobile devices having a rechargeable battery. For ease of reference, a stimulation device and other suitable rechargeable mobile devices can be referred to herein as a “stimulation device” for ease of reference unless indicated otherwise. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 13 A, the stimulation device 403 includes a control circuit 408. coupled to charging circuit 420. The stimulation device 403 also includes a stimulation circuit 418 coupled to the control circuit 408, the stimulation circuit 418 configured to provide electrical energy to contacts ( e.g., FIG. 13B contacts 426a, 426b) of the device 403 to provide electrical stimulation to a patient. The charging system 401 and / or stimulation device 403 can be the same or similar to the electrical stimulation system 300 described above, and can have many of the same or similar elements or features. In some embodiments, the stimulation device 403 is configured to use the same contacts (e.g., contacts 426 in FIG. 13B) to either charge the stimulation device3553901856.1Atty. Docket No. 96509-6138403 or provide electrical stimulation to a user. An advantage of using the same contacts for both delivering a stimulation treatment and charging the stimulation device 403 is that separate contacts are not needed for each function, which may reduce manufacturing costs. In the embodiments illustrated in FIG.'s 13A - 13C, charger 412 is configured to charge stimulation device 403 using the same electrical contacts or leads (both referred to as "contacts" unless specifically indicated otherwise) of the stimulation device 403 that the stimulation device 403 uses to provide an electrical output (e.g., for electrical stimulation). In some embodiments, the electrical stimulation is provided via electrode pads 160 in electrical communication with the contacts.

[0138] In this embodiment, the charging system 401 includes charger 412 and one or more components, incorporated in the stimulation device 403 for charging a rechargeable battery in the stimulation device 403. The one or more components are configured to determine if a charger 412 is available to provide power to the stimulation device 403, and if so (internally) electrically connect the rechargeable battery to contacts of the stimulation device 403. The charger 412 and the stimulation device 403 can be positioned near each other and such that the charger 412 can couple to the contacts and provide power for charging the rechargeable battery.

[0139] In some embodiments, including the example illustrated in FIG. 13 A, components of the charging system 401 in the stimulation device 403 include the control circuit 408 which is coupled to the charging circuit 420. The charging circuit 420 can include the rechargeable battery (e.g., 421 FIG. 13B and 13C). Although described as being part of the charging circuit 420, in some embodiments the rechargeable battery can be uncoupled from the control circuit 408 and can be replaceable. Also, in some embodiments, the rechargeable battery includes two or more rechargeable batteries.

[0140] In this embodiment, the control circuit 408 includes a detector circuit 414 and a switch 416. In various embodiments, the switch 416 can be configured to connect and disconnect one or more electrical paths. For example, the switch 416 can cause the contacts 426 to be coupled to a stimulation circuit 418 or a charging circuit 420. The detector circuit 414 is configured to detect when the device 403 is connected to the charger 412 (or is in the presence of the charger 412) such that the charger 412 can provide electrical current for charging a rechargeable battery in the charging circuit 420. When the detector circuit 414 detects the charger 412, the switch 416 electrically3653901856.1Atty. Docket No. 96509-6138 connects the charging circuit 420 to electrical contacts of the stimulation device 403. When the detector circuit 414 does not detect the charger 412, the switch 416 is aligned to connect the electrical contacts of the device 403 to the stimulation circuit 418.

[0141] In some embodiments, the detector circuit 414 can be configured to detect the presence of a body 410 or a charger 412 based on the impedance detected across the electrical contacts of the stimulation device 403. A portion of a user's body, in contact with the electrical contacts of the stimulation device 403, exhibits a certain impedance (a “first impedance" or “load”). A charger in contact with the electrical contacts of the stimulation device 403, also exhibits a certain impedance (a “second impedance” or “load”), and the first impedance is different from the second impedance, and the difference in impedance can be used to determine if a charger of a body is connected to the contacts. That is, in some examples, the detector circuit 414 can be configured to detect whether the contacts of the stimulation device 403 are in contact with a human or animal body if the impedance across the contacts is associated with impedance of a human or animal (a body load). If the detector circuit 414 detects an impedance associated with a body load across the contacts, the control circuit 408 can control the switch 416 to connect the stimulation circuit 418 to electrical contacts of the device 403 to provide electrical stimulation. If the detector circuit 414 detects an impedance associated with a charger across the contacts, the control circuit 408 can control the switch 416 to connect the charging circuit 420 to the electrical contacts of the stimulation device 403.

[0142] In another example, the detector circuit 414 can be configured to detect if the device 403 is in the presence of a charger 412 for charging a battery in the stimulation device 403. Based on sensing information from the detector circuit 414, the control circuit 408 can be configured to connect the switch 416 to the charging circuit 420. Another advantage of switching between a stimulation circuit 418 and a charging circuit 420 is that the charging circuit 420 can be protected from high voltages produced by the stimulation circuit 418.

[0143] As described herein, the detector circuit 414 can detect the presence of a body 410 or a charger 412 in a variety of ways. For example, the detector circuit 414 can detect the presence of a body 410 or a charger 412 using electrical, mechanical, magnetic, optical, or other means. For example, the detector circuit 414 can measure an impedance at the contacts 426 of the stimulation device 403 to determine whether the3753901856.1Atty. Docket No. 96509-6138 contacts 426 are coupled to a body load 410 or a charger load 412. The detector circuit 414 can compare the impedance of a load on the contacts 426 to one or more predetermined thresholds to determine whether the load is a body load 410 or a charger load 412. The detector circuit 414 can measure a voltage and / or a current at the contacts 426 and compare the one or more measurements to one or more predetermined thresholds to determine whether a load is a body load 410 or a charger load 412. The detector circuit 414 can use mechanical means to detect the presence of a body 410 or a charger 412. For example, the stimulation device 403 or the charger 412 can include a switch, or another mechanical means, for detecting the presence of a body 410 and / or charger 412. The detector circuit 414 can use magnetic means for detecting the presence of a body 410 and / or a charger 412. For example, the detector circuit 414 can include a reed switch. A magnetic field emitted by the charger 412 can activate the reed switch, which may signal to the detector circuit the presence of the charger 412. The detector circuit 414 can use a Hall effect sensor to detect the presence of a charger 412. In some embodiments, the detector circuit 414 can use optical means to detect the presence of a body 410 or a charger 412. For example, the detector circuit 414 can include one or more infrared sensors configured to detect the presence of an infrared signal from a charger. In some embodiments, the detector circuit 414 can include an RFID reader, and the charger 412 may include an RFID tag. The RFID reader can be configured to detect the presence of a body 410 or a charger 412 if the RFID reader detects the presence of an RFID tag associated with a body 410 or a charger 412. In some embodiments, the detector circuit 414 can use a wireless protocol to detect the presence of a charger 412, such as Bluetooth®, Wi-Fi®, or another wireless protocol.

[0144] The detector circuit 414 can be configured to communicate with and / or send a signal to one or more switches 416 via one or more wires 434 or via a wireless connection. The one or more switches 416 may be configured to switch the contacts 426 to be coupled to either a stimulation circuit 418 or a charging circuit 420. As shown in FIG. 13B, a switch 416 can be configured to switch the contacts 426 from being coupled to a stimulation circuit 418 to a charging circuit 420. The one or more switches 416 can be configured to switch between the stimulation circuit 418 and the charging circuit 420 based at least in part on a signal from the detector circuit 414. The switch 416 can be configured to couple the contacts 426 to a stimulation circuit 418 if a body 410 is detected. The switch 416 can be configured to couple the contacts 426 to a3853901856.1Atty. Docket No. 96509-6138 charging circuit 420 if a charger 412 is detected. As shown in FIG. 13C, there can be one or more switches 416 associated with the stimulation circuit 418, and one or more switches 416 associated with the charging circuit 420. Each of the one or more switches 416 associated with the stimulation circuit 418 and the charging circuit 420 can be configured to independently verify the presence of a body 410 or a charger 412. The one or more switches 416 associated with the stimulation circuit 418 can be configured to be in a closed position if the detector circuit 414 detects the presence of a body 410, and / or in an open position if the detector circuit 414 detects the presence of a charger 412. The one or more switches 416 associated with the charging circuit 420 can be configured to be in a closed position if the detector circuit 414 detects the presence of a charger 412, and / or in an open position if the detector circuit 414 detects the presence of a body 410.

[0145] The stimulation circuit 418 can be configured to deliver a stimulation treatment to a user. The stimulation treatment can be the same or similar to any of the embodiments described herein. For example, the stimulation treatment can include stimulation parameters such as stimulation pulse frequency, strength, and duration. The stimulation circuit 418 can be configured to deliver a stimulation treatment to a user via the one or more contacts 426. The one or more contacts 426 can be configured to deliver the stimulation treatment to the user via one or more electrode pads 160. The one or more contacts 426 can be coupled to one or more electrode pads 160 via a wired or wireless connection. The stimulation circuit 418 can be in communication with a control device 220 and / or a remote data source 280. The stimulation circuit 418 can receive energy from a rechargeable power source, which may include a rechargeable battery.

[0146] The charging circuit 420 can be configured to receive energy from a charger 412. The charging circuit 420 can be configured to charge a rechargeable power source. The rechargeable power source can include a rechargeable battery. The power source can be configured to provide energy to the stimulation circuit 418, which can be used to deliver a stimulation treatment to a user. The power source can be configured to provide energy to the detector circuit 414, which can be used to detect the presence of a body 410 or a charger 412. The power source can be configured to provide energy to the one or more switches 416, which can be used to switch between a stimulation circuit 418 and a charging circuit 420.3953901856.1Atty. Docket No. 96509-6138

[0147] The stimulation device 403 can include a stimulation mode and a charging mode. In the stimulation mode, the one or more contacts 426 can be coupled to the stimulation circuit 418. In the charging mode, the one or more contacts 426 can be coupled to the charging circuit 420. In the stimulation mode, the stimulation device 403 can be configured to deliver a stimulation treatment to a user via the one or more contacts 426. The one or more contacts 426 can be configured to deliver the stimulation treatment via one or more electrode pads 160. In the charging mode, the stimulation device 403 can be configured to receive energy via the one or more contacts 426, which can be used to charge a rechargeable power source.

[0148] FIG. 13B shows an example of a charging system 401 for a stimulation device 403. The stimulation device 403 can have two or more contacts 426. In some embodiments, the contacts 426 can be the same as or similar to the module side connector 104. Any of the elements of features described with respect to the module side connector 104 can apply to the contacts 426, and any of the elements or features described with respect to the contacts 426 can apply to the module side connector 104. In some embodiments, the stimulation device 403 can be the same as or similar to the module 200 and / or the control device 220. Any of the elements of features described with respect to the module 200 and / or the control device 220 can apply to the stimulation device 403, and any of the elements or features described with respect to the stimulation device 403 can apply to the module 200 and / or the control device 220.

[0149] The contacts 426 can be couplable to a body 410 (i.e., a body of an animal or a human). In some embodiments, the contacts 426 can be coupled to a body 410 via one or more electrode pads 1 0. When the contacts 426 are coupled to the body 410, the stimulation device 403 can be configured to deliver a stimulation treatment to the body 410. The contacts 426 can be configured to deliver a stimulation treatment via one or more electrode pads 160. The contacts 426 can be couplable to a charger 412. The contacts 426 can be coupled to the charger 412 via one or more charger contacts 428 on the charger 412. The contacts 426 can be coupled to the charger 412 via a wired or wireless connection. The charger 412 can be configured to deliver energy to the stimulation device 403 via the contacts 426 and / or the charging circuit 420. The stimulation device 403 can include a rechargeable power supply, which can be configured to receive power from the charger via the contacts 426 and / or the charging4053901856.1Atty. Docket No. 96509-6138 circuit 420. The contacts 426 can be configured to transfer data to and / or from the stimulation device 403.

[0150] The stimulation device 403 can include one or more switches 416. The contacts 426 can be coupled to the one or more switches 416 via one or more wires 434, or via a wireless connection. The one or more switches 416 can be configured to couple the contacts 426 to either a stimulation circuit 418 or a charging circuit 420. When the contacts 426 are coupled to the stimulation circuit 418, the stimulation device 403 can be in a stimulation mode, wherein the stimulation device 403 is configured to deliver a stimulation treatment to a user. When the contacts 426 are coupled to the charging circuit 420, the stimulation device 403 can be in a charging mode, wherein the stimulation device 403 is configured to receive power from the charger 412.

[0151] A detector circuit 414 can be configured to detect the presence of either a body 410 or a charger 412. The detector circuit 414 can be configured to detect whether the contacts 426 are connected to a body 410 or a charger 412. In some embodiments, the detector circuit 414 may be able to detect whether the contacts 426 are connected to either a body load 410 or a charger load 412 by detecting the impedance of a load. The detector circuit 414 may be configured to measure the electrical impedance of a load coupled to the contacts 426 to distinguish between body load 410 and a charger load 412. The detector circuit 414 may be coupled to the one or more switches 416. The detector circuit 414 may be configured to cause the switch to switch the contacts 426 from being coupled to either the stimulation circuit 418 or the charging circuit 420 based on whether the detector circuit 414 detects that the contacts 426 are coupled to either a body load 410 or a charger load 412. The detector circuit 414 may be configured to cause the contacts 426 to be coupled to the stimulation circuit 418 if a body load 410 is detected, and / or to cause the contacts 426 to be coupled to the charging circuit 420 if a charger load 412 is detected. The detector circuit 414 may use any of the detection methods described herein to detect the presence of a body load 410 and / or a charger load 412.

[0152] In some embodiments, the detector circuit 414 can be configured to detect the presence of a charger 412. The detector circuit 414 can be configured to detect the presence of a charger via a wired or wireless signal 432 from the charger 412. In some embodiments, the wireless signal 432 can be a magnetic signal, an RFID signal, or another wireless communication protocol that can indicate the presence the charger 412.4153901856.1Atty. Docket No. 96509-6138In some embodiments, the charger 412 can include a communication module 430 for signaling the presence of the charger 412 to the detector circuit 414. The detector circuit 414 can be configured to detect the presence of the charger by receiving the wireless signal 432 from the charger 412. The charger 412 can include a charging system 424 and / or a power supply 422 for providing power to the stimulation device 403. In some embodiments, the detector circuit 414 can include a reed switch. The reed switch can react to a magnetic field emitted by the charger 412. The communication module 430 in the charger 412 can be configured to emit a magnetic field. The wireless signal 432 from the charger 412 can include a magnetic field. The reed switch can be configured to be activated based on the detection of the magnetic field from the charger 412. The detector circuit can then signal to the one or more switches 416 to switch to a stimulation circuit 418 and / or a charging circuit 420 based on the presence of a body 410 or a charger 412. In some embodiments, the one or more switches 416 can include a reed switch. In some embodiments, the reed switch can be configured to be protected against undesired magnetic fields. An advantage of using a reed switch is that the detector circuit 414 may not require energy' from a power source to detect the presence of a charger and switch to a charging circuit 420.

[0153] The charger 412 can include a power supply 422 and / or a charging system 424, which can be configured to provide power to the stimulation device 403. The charger 412 can provide energy to the stimulation device 403 via one or more charger contacts 428. The one or more charger contacts 428 can correspond to the one or more contacts 426. The one or more charger contacts 428 can be coupled to the one or more contacts 426 via a wired or wireless connection. The one or more charger contacts 428 may be configured to contact the contacts 426 directly to transfer energy' from the charger 412 to the stimulation device 403. The one or more charger contacts 428 can be coupled to the charging system 424 and / or the power supply 422 via one or more wires 434 or via a wireless connection. In some embodiments, the charger 412 can be the station 260, or can have many of the same or similar elements as the station 260. In some embodiments, the charger contacts 428 can be configured to transfer data to and from the contacts 426.

[0154] The stimulation device 403 can include a housing 436. The housing 436 can partially or fully enclose the stimulation circuit 418, the charging circuit 420, the detector circuit 414, and / or the one or more switches 416. The housing 436 can partially4253901856.1Atty. Docket No. 96509-6138 or fully enclose the one or more contacts 426. The one or more contacts 426 can partially or fully extend from the housing 436. The charger 412 can include a charger housing 438. The charger housing can partially or fully enclose the charging system 424. the power supply 422, and / or the communication module 430. The charger housing 438 can partially or fully enclose the charger contacts 428. The charger contacts 428 can partially or fully extend from the charger housing 438. The charger housing 438 can be the same as or similar to the station 260, and may have the same or similar elements.

[0155] FIG. 13C shows an example of a charging system 401 for a stimulation device 403. In some embodiments, the contacts 426 can be coupled to two or more switches 416. One or more switches 416 can be coupled to and / or associated with the stimulation circuit 418, and one or more switches 416 can be coupled to and / or associated with the charging circuit 420. The detector circuit 414 can be configured to detect the presence of a body load 410 or a charger load 412. The one or more switches 416 associated with the stimulation circuit 418 can be configured to be in a closed position if the detector circuit 414 detects the presence of a body 410, and / or in an open position if the detector circuit 414 detects the presence of a charger 412. The one or more switches 416 associated with the charging circuit 420 can be configured to be in a closed position if the detector circuit 414 detects the presence of a charger 412, and / or in an open position if the detector circuit 414 detects the presence of a body 410. The one or more switches 416 associated with the stimulation circuit 418 can be configured to be open if the one or more switches 416 associated with the charging circuit 420 are closed, and / or the one or more switches 416 associated with the charging circuit 420 can be configured to be open if the one or more switches 416 associated with the stimulation circuit 418 are closed.Synchronization of Electrostimulation Devices Communicating Over Bluetooth® Low Energy®

[0156] Electrostimulation (EMS) is commonly used to strengthen or rehabilitate muscles and / or to alleviate pain. With EMS, electrical stimulation pulses are applied to a muscle using one or several electrode devices that are adhered or otherwise applied to a patient's skin. Various electrostimulation protocols exist that provide different4353901856.1Atty. Docket No. 96509-6138 parameters for the timing, intensity, duration, and shape of the electrostimulation pulses.

[0157] Some EMS devices are multichannel. That is, some EMS devices are capable of providing electrostimulation protocols along a number of independent electrical pathways. This can, for example, allow for more complex EMS treatments to be applied across larger treatment areas. For example, two- and four-channel EMS systems are common. An example, two-channel EMS system is shown, for example, in FIG. 14A. In the illustrated example of FIG. 14A, two, two-channel EMS systems are applied, one on each of the patient’s legs. Each EMS system comprises two pairs of electrodes arranged in channels. Thus, each EMS system comprises a first channel and a second channel.

[0158] With multichannel EMS devices, care must be taken to coordinate the pulses being provided by the different channels. If the channels are not coordinated, pulses applied to the muscle may begin to overlap, resulting in excessive amounts of energy being applied. This is shown in FIG. 14B. In FIG. 14B, the top row illustrates the electrostimulation pulses applied by the first channel, and the middle row illustrates the electrostimulation pulses applied by the second channel over time. The bottom row illustrates the combined effect of the first and second channels on the muscles as the electrostimulation pulses begin to overlap. As is shown, as the pulses overlap, the amplitude of the pulses can constructively interfere resulting in excessive amounts of energy being applied to muscles. This can result in pain, undesirably high muscle contraction, and / or damage to the muscle and / or skin of the patient and is thus undesirable.

[0159] Ideally, the pulses of each channel should be coordinated and offset such that they do not interfere and overlap with each other. FIG. 14C represents electrostimulation on four channels, with every channel being offset by Oto ensure no overlap of the pulses of P width. The goal of the pulse synchronization is to have a common timing base to then be able to offset them to avoid overlap. Such coordination can be difficult, however, because the devices associated with the different channels do not share a common time base, especially when such devices communicate wirelessly and thus each utilize their own clock.

[0160] Accordingly, there is a need to establish a common time base between the devices of a multichannel EMS system, especially where the devices communicate4453901856.1Atty. Docket No. 96509-6138 wirelessly, so that the pulses provided on each channel can be coordinated such that they do not interfere with each other. This is provided according to the technology described herein. The technology will be described by way of example with reference to a four-channel system, each channel being provided by a device communicating via the Bluetooth® Low Energy (BLE®) standard, although these principles may have applications to devices communicating wirelessly over other wireless communication standards or protocols.

[0161] With reference now to FIG. 14D, a general architecture of an example EMS system 1400 is described. In the illustrated example 1400, the EMS system 1400 includes a control device 1402, a central EMS device 1404, and three peripheral EMS devices 1406a, 1406b, 1406c. The control device 1402, the central EMS device 1404 (also referred to herein as a controller device), and the three peripheral EMS devices 1406a, 1406b, 1406c (also referred to herein as controlled devices) can be configured to communicate wirelessly, for example, over the Bluetooth® Low Energy (BLE®) standard, although other wireless communication protocols or standards may be used in other embodiments. Communication between the devices of the EMS system 1400 is. however, structured as shown in FIG. 14D: the control device 1402 communicates with the central device 1404, and the central device 1404 communicates with each of the peripheral devices 1406a, 1406b, 1406c. That is, the peripheral devices 1406a, 1406b, 1406c do not communicate directly with each other nor with the control device. In this way, and as will be discussed in more detail below with reference to FIG. 14F, the central device 1404 can service to establish a common time base between the devices of the EMS system 1400 so that the pulses provided on each channel can be coordinated such that they do not interfere with each other.

[0162] The central device 1404, and the peripheral devices 1406a, 1406b, 1406c can each be EMS devices configured as a pair of electrodes configured to be applied to a user to administer EMS. Each of the central device 1404, and the peripheral devices 1406a, 1406b, 1406c can be associated with one channel of the EMS system 1400. Thus, the EMS system 1400 can be a four channel EMS system. In other embodiments, other numbers of peripheral devices 1406 can be used to create other numbers of channels for the EMS system 1400.

[0163] Notably, in some embodiments, the central device 1404 and the peripheral devices 1406a, 1406b, 1406c may be the same type of device. That is, in some4553901856.1Atty. Docket No. 96509-6138 embodiments of the EMS system 1400, all four the of the central device 1404 and the peripheral devices 1406a, 1406b, 1406c can be identical devices, and any of the devices can be selected to act as the central devices 1404 with the other three devices then acting as the peripheral devices 1406.

[0164] The control device 1402 can be, for example, a device that is configured to allow a user to specify information about an EMS program to be applied. For example, various electrostimulation protocols exist that provide different parameters for the timing, intensity, duration, and shape of the electrostimulation pulses and the control device 1402 can be configured to allow a user to select, adjust, initiate, start, stop, store and / or access information relating to a stimulation protocol or program. In some embodiments, the control device 1402 can be a user device, such as a user's mobile phone, tablet, or computer. The control device 1402 may be a network connected device configured to access a network, such as the internet.

[0165] FIG. 14E illustrates an example of the EMS system 1400 in greater detail. FIG. 14E illustrates the EMS system 1400 with, the control device 1402 (control unit), the central device 1404 (shown as Device 1 (Controller)), a first peripheral device 1406a (shown as Device 2 (Controlled Role)), a second peripheral device 1406b (shown as Device 3 (Controlled Role)), and a third peripheral device 1406c (shown as Device 4 (Controlled Role)). Notably, the central device 1404 and the peripheral device 1406a, 1406b, 1406c are indicated as device 1, 2, 3, 4 to indicate that, as described above, in some embodiments, each of these devices can be the same type of EMS device, and any of the devices can be selected for the central / controller role with the other devices being selected for the peripheral / controlled roles.

[0166] As shown in FIG. 14E, the control device 1402 communicates can be configured to run or access one or more applications. For example, the applications can be run locally on the control devices 1402. To this end, the control device 1402 can include one or more memories storing computer readable instructions and one or more processors that execute the computer readable instructions to run the applications. In other embodiments, the applications can be run external to the control device 1402 (for example, on the server) and accessed by the control device 1402. As indicated in FIG. 14E, in some embodiments, the applications run on or accessed by the control device 1402 can be configured to allow a user to: select an electrostimulation program, start an electrostimulation program, pause an electrostimulation program, and / or increase4653901856.1Atty. Docket No. 96509-6138 and / or decrease the intensity of the program and / or each channel of the EMS system 1400. In some embodiments, the application can also store or allow access to a library or stimulation programs from which a user may select a program. In some embodiments, the application may also allow a user to create a user account. User data can be saved associated with the user's user account. This can, for example, allow a user to back up a current program and objective of the user, synchronize with a different control device of the user, gather data usage information such as information about completed programs and average and maximum intensity. In some embodiments, this information can be saved to and or accessed from the server.

[0167] As shown in FIG. 14E, the central device 1404 communicates with the control device 1402 and the peripheral devices 1406a, 1406b, 1406c in the manner previously described. That is, central device 1404 communicates with the control device 1402. The central device 1404 communicates individually and independently with each of the three peripheral devices 1406a, 1406b, 1406c. The peripheral devices 1406a, 1406b, 1406c do not communicate directly with each other nor with the control device 1402. Communication between the control device 1402 and the central device 1404 occurs wirelessly, for example, over the Bluetooth® Low Energy (BLE®) standard, and communication between the central device 1404 and each of the peripheral devices 1406a, 1406b, 1406c similarly occurs wirelessly, for example, over the Bluetooth® Low' Energy (BLE®) standard.

[0168] As illustrated in FIG. 14E, the central (controller) device 1404 in the EMS system 1400 is responsible for connecting the other devices (e.g., connecting to the peripheral devices 1406a, 1406b, 1406c), handling pulse synchronization (for example, as will be discussed in more detail below' wdth reference to FIG. 1 4F), transmitting commands from the control device 1402 to the peripheral devices 1406a, 1406b, 1406c (such as commands related to program selection, start, pause, resume, increase intensity, decrease intensity, etc.), monitoring the peripheral devices 1406a, 1406b, 1406c, and informing the control device 1402 with the different data from the peripheral devices 1406a, 1406b, 1406c and from itself relating to the current program (e.g., remaining time, current intensity, error rate, etc.). Thus, the central device 1404 serves to coordinate all four of the EMS devices (the central devices 1404 and the three peripheral devices 1406a, 1406b, 1406c) and serves to relay information between the control device 1402 and the three peripheral devices 1406a, 1406b, 1406c as w ell as to4753901856.1Atty. Docket No. 96509-6138 synchronize the pulses all four of the EMS devices (the central devices 1404 and the three peripheral devices 1406a, 1406b, 1406c) as described below with reference to FIG. 14F.

[0169] With continued reference to FIG. 14E, each peripheral (controlled) device 1406a, 1406b, 1406c is responsible for responding to commands from the central device 1404 and informing the central device 1404 with its data relating to the current program (e g., remaining time, current intensity, error rate, etc.).

[0170] With the EMS system 1400 and architecture as shown in FIGS. 14D and 14E, it is possible to establish a common time base between the central device 1404 and the peripheral device 1406a, 1406b, 1406c so that the pulses provided on each channel can be coordinated such that they do not overlap and interfere with each other. This will be described with reference to an example where the devices communicate with each other over the Bluetooth® Low Energy (BLE®) standard. With the BLE standard, the central device 1404 communicates with each peripheral device 1406 at a set interval (the connection interval) which is established by the central device 1404. The connection interval refers to the time between two data transfer events between the central device 1404 and one of the peripheral devices. That is, a first connection event between the central device 1404 and one of the peripheral devices 1406 is spaced apart from a second connection event between the central device 1404 and the same peripheral device 1406 by the connection interval. The connection interval is set by the central device 1404 and is the same for all peripheral devices 1406.

[0171] The central device 1404 only communicates with one peripheral device 1406 at a time. Accordingly, connection events between the central device 1406 and the first peripheral device 1406a are offset from connection events between the central device 1404 and the second peripheral device 1406b, which are offset from connection events between the central device 1404 and the third peripheral device 1406c. The offset is determined by the central device 1404 and is the same for all peripheral devices 1406.

[0172] The timeframe for the central device 1404 and the peripheral devices 1406 can be synchronized based on the connection interval and the offset as follows. For example, during a synchronization phase the central device 1404 determines a connection interval to be used for communicating with the peripheral devices 1406. In some embodiments, the connection interval is determined by the central device 1404.4853901856.1Atty. Docket No. 96509-6138In some embodiments, the connection interval is determined by the control device 1402. In some embodiments, the connection interval is on the order of tenths of milliseconds.

[0173] During the synchronization phase, the central device 1404 also assigns each of the peripheral devices 1406 a number based on the order in which the central device 1404 will communicate with each of the peripheral devices 1406. As noted previously, the central device 1404 can only communicate with one of the peripheral devices 1406 at a time and thus will need to communicate with each of the peripheral devices 1406 in turn and in order.

[0174] During the synchronization phase, the central device 1404 also determines an offset between connection events for the each of channels. In some embodiments, the offset is determined by the central device 1404. In some embodiments, the offset is determined by the control device 1402. In some embodiments, the offset is on the order of milliseconds. The offset relates to the time delay in between communications with each of the peripheral devices 1406. For example, a connection event with the second peripheral device 1406b is time delayed from a connection event with the first peripheral device 1406a by the offset.

[0175] The synchronization phase ends after a predetermined number of connection events with each peripheral device 1406. In the illustrated example, the synchronization phase ends after three connection events with each peripheral device, although other numbers can be used in other examples. For example, two, three, four, five, or more connection events with each peripheral device can occur during the synchronization phase.

[0176] At the end of the synchronization phase, the central device 1404 begins its electrostimulation program. As illustrated, in FIG. 14F, the central device 1404 provides its first stimulation pulse. Each peripheral device 1406 also begins its electrostimulation program after a delay that is computed based on the peripheral device number, the offset, and a pulse delay (being a desired delay between pulses of adjacent channels). In some cases, each peripheral device begins its stimulation program after a delay computed with the following formula:Delay = (n — 1) * Of fsetDelay + k * PulseDelayWhere: n = the number of electro-stimulation devices (including the central device) k = peripheral device number (assigned by central device).4953901856.1Atty. Docket No. 96509-6138

[0177] In this way, pulses provided by the channels are appropriately synchronized and staggered to avoid interference.

[0178] This is shown in FIG. 14F. In FIG. 14F, the central device 1404 is referred to as a controller device, and the peripheral devices 1406 are referred to as controlled devices.

[0179] In some embodiments, connection event length can vary if there is ongoing BLE® communication, so it may be necessary to ensure that there is either fixed BLE® communication or not BLE® communication during the synchronization phase.

[0180] The foregoing description details certain embodiments of the systems, devices, and methods disclosed herein. It will be appreciated, however, that no matter how detailed the foregoing appears in text, the systems, devices, and methods can be practiced in many ways. As is also stated above, it should be noted that the use of particular terminology when describing certain features or aspects of the invention should not be taken to imply that the terminology is being re-defined herein to be restricted to including any specific characteristics of the features or aspects of the technology with which that terminology is associated.

[0181] Conditional language such as, among others, "can," "could," "might" or "may," unless specifically stated otherwise, are otherwise understood within the context as used in general to convey that certain embodiments include, while other embodiments do not include, certain features, elements and / or steps. Thus, such conditional language is not generally intended to imply that features, elements and / or steps are in any way required for one or more embodiments or that one or more embodiments necessarily include logic for deciding, with or without user input or prompting, whether these features, elements and / or steps are included or are to be performed in any particular embodiment.

[0182] Headings are included herein for reference and to aid in locating various sections. These headings are not intended to limit the scope of the concepts described with respect thereto. Such concepts may have applicability throughout the entire specification.

[0183] Disjunctive language such as the phrase "at least one of X, Y, or Z," unless specifically stated otherwise, is otherwise understood with the context as used in general to present that an item, term, etc., may be either X, Y, or Z, or any combination thereof (e.g., X, Y, and / or Z). Thus, such disjunctive language is not generally intended5053901856.1Atty. Docket No. 96509-6138 to, and should not, imply that certain embodiments require at least one of X, at least one of Y, or at least one of Z to each be present.

[0184] The phrase "based on" does not mean "based only on," unless expressly specified otherwise. In other words, the phrase "based on" describes both "based only on" and "based at least on." Unless otherwise explicitly stated, articles such as "a" or "an" should generally be interpreted to include one or more described items. Accordingly, phrases such as "a device configured to" are intended to include one or more recited devices.

[0185] The term "application" may refer to a complete and deployable package, environment to achieve a certain function in an operational environment. The term “AI / ML application’’ or the like may be an application that contains some AI / ML models and application-level descriptions.

[0186] The terms “circuit” and “circuitry” as used herein refer to, is part of, or includes hardware components such as an electronic circuit, a logic circuit, a processor (shared, dedicated, or group) and / or memory (shared, dedicated, or group), an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC), a field-programmable device (FPD) (e.g., a field- programmable gate array (FPGA), a programmable logic device (PLD). a complex PLD (CPLD), a high-capacity PLD (HCPLD), a structured ASIC, or a programmable SoC), digital signal processors (DSPs), etc., that are configured to provide the described functionality. In some embodiments, the circuitry7may execute one or more software or firmware programs to provide at least some of the described functionality. The term “circuitry” may also refer to a combination of one or more hardware elements (or a combination of circuits used in an electrical or electronic system) with the program code used to carry out the functionality of that program code. In these embodiments, the combination of hardware elements and program code may be referred to as a particular type of circuitry.

[0187] The term “processor circuitry” as used herein refers to, is part of, or includes circuitry capable of sequentially and automatically carrying out a sequence of arithmetic or logical operations, or recording, storing, and / or transferring digital data. Processing circuitry may include one or more processing cores to execute instructions and one or more memory structures to store program and data information. The term “processor circuitry” may refer to one or more application processors, one or more baseband processors, a physical central processing unit (CPU), a single-core processor,5153901856.1Atty. Docket No. 96509-6138 a dual-core processor, a triple-core processor, a quad-core processor, and / or any other device capable of executing or otherwise operating computer-executable instructions, such as program code, software modules, and / or functional processes. Processing circuitry may include more hardware accelerators, which may be microprocessors, programmable processing devices, or the like. The one or more hardware accelerators may include, for example, computer vision (CV) and / or deep learning (DL) accelerators. The terms “application circuitry" and / or “baseband circuitry ’' may be considered synonymous to, and may be referred to as, “processor circuitry.”

[0188] The term “channel” as used herein refers to any transmission medium, either tangible or intangible, which is used to communicate data or a data stream. The term “channel” may be synonymous with and / or equivalent to “communications channel,” “data communications channel,” “transmission channel,” “data transmission channel,” “access channel,” “data access channel.” “link.” “data link,” “carrier.” “radiofrequency carrier,” and / or any other like term denoting a pathway or medium through which data is communicated.

[0189] The terms “coupled,” “communicatively coupled,” along with derivatives thereof are used herein. The term “coupled” may mean two or more elements are in direct physical or electrical contact with one another, may mean that two or more elements indirectly contact each other but still cooperate or interact with each other, and / or may mean that one or more other elements are coupled or connected between the elements that are said to be coupled with each other. The term “directly coupled” may mean that two or more elements are in direct contact with one another. The term “communicatively coupled” may mean that two or more elements may be in contact with one another by a means of communication including through a wire or other interconnect connection, through a wireless communication channel or link, and / or the like.

[0190] The term “device” may refer to a combination of physical and logical components able to read instructions from a machine-readable or computer-readable medium (e.g., anon-transitory machine-readable storage medium) and perform any one or more of the methodologies discussed herein. For example, a device may refer to or include processing circuitry capable of executing instructions stored on a computer- readable medium and / or from memory storage devices (e.g., any type of volatile, nonvolatile, or semi-volatile memory such as dynamic random access memory (DRAM),5253901856.1Atty. Docket No. 96509-6138 static random access memory (SRAM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), Flash memory, solid-state storage, etc.). The processing circuitry may include a central processing unit (CPU), a reduced instruction set computing (RISC) processor, a complex instruction set computing (CISC) processor, a graphics processing unit (GPU), a DSP such as a baseband processor, an ASIC, an FPGA, a radio-frequency integrated circuit (RFIC), another processor (including those discussed herein), or any suitable combination thereof. The term “device” may refer to a physical entity embedded inside, or attached to, another physical entity in its vicinity, with capabilities to convey digital information from or to that physical entity. The term “entity” refers to a distinct component of an architecture or device, or information transferred as a payload. The terms “controller” and controller device” refer to an element or entity that has the capability to affect a physical entity, such as by changing its state or causing the physical entity to move.

[0191] The term “switch” may refer to physical and / or logical switches, including diode switches, transistor switches, logic gate switches, and the like.

[0192] Examples, as described herein, may include or may operate on logic or a number of components, modules, or mechanisms. Modules are tangible entities (e.g., hardware) capable of performing specified operations when operating. A module includes hardware. In an example, the hardware may be specifically configured to carry out a specific operation (e.g., hardwired). In another example, the hardware may include configurable execution units (e.g., transistors, circuits, etc.) and a computer readable medium containing instructions where the instructions configure the execution units to carry out a specific operation when in operation. The configuring may occur under the direction of the executions units or a loading mechanism. Accordingly, the execution units are communicatively coupled to the computer-readable medium when the device is operating. In this example, the execution units may be a member of more than one module. For example, under operation, the execution units may be configured by a first set of instructions to implement a first module at one point in time and reconfigured by a second set of instructions to implement a second module at a second point in time.

[0193] The above description discloses several methods and materials of the present invention. This invention is susceptible to modifications in the methods and materials, as well as alterations in the fabrication methods and equipment. Such modifications will5353901856.1Atty. Docket No. 96509-6138 become apparent to those skilled in the art from a consideration of this disclosure or practice of the invention disclosed herein. Consequently, it is not intended that this invention be limited to the specific embodiments disclosed herein, but that it cover all modifications and alternatives coming within the true scope and spirit of the invention as embodied in the attached claims. Applicant reserves the right to submit claims directed to combinations and subcombinations of the disclosed inventions that are believed to be novel and non-obvious. Inventions embodied in other combinations and sub-combinations of features, functions, elements and / or properties may be claimed through amendment of those claims or presentation of new claims in the present application or in a related application. Such amended or new claims, whether they are directed to the same invention or a different invention and whether they are different, broader, narrower or equal in scope to the original claims, are to be considered within the subject matter of the inventions described herein.5453901856.1

Claims

1. Atty. Docket No. 96509-6138CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A connector assembly for magnetically and electrically connecting an electrical stimulation module to a device, comprising: a module-side connector comprising: a housing comprising a detent with an electrically conductive concave curved surface; and one or more magnets positioned within the housing; and an electrode-side connector including a stud having a protruding portion with an electrically conductive convex curved surface shaped corresponding to the electrically conductive concave curved surface of the detent to allow the stud to fit into and magnetically and electrically couple to the detent allowing three-dimensional movement between the stud and the detent while magnetically and electrically coupled together.

2. The connector assembly of claim 1, wherein the electrode-side connector is coupled to an electrode pad.

3. The connector assembly of claim 1, wherein the one or more magnets comprises an annular magnet.

4. The connector assembly of claim 1, wherein the housing comprises a nonferrous material.5 The connector assembly of claim 1, further comprising a cap positioned over a first pole of the one or more magnets such that the one or more magnets are between the cap and a portion of the housing, wherein the cap comprises a ferrous metal and contacts the detent.

6. The connector assembly of claim 1, wherein the housing further comprises a portion configured to connect to an electrical stimulation system.

7. The connector assembly of claim 1, further comprising a casing positioned around at least a portion of the housing.5553901856.1Atty. Docket No. 96509-61388. The connector assembly of claim 7, further comprising a connection pin contacting the housing and extending through the casing, wherein the connection pin is electrically conductive and configured to attach to a control device.

9. The connector assembly of claim 1, wherein the electrode-side connector is coupled to a charging system.

10. The connector assembly of claim 1, wherein the electrode-side connector is coupled to a communication system.

11. An electrode connection system comprising: a module-side connector comprising: an electrically conductive housing; an engagement portion comprising a curved surface configured to facilitate three-dimensional movement of the module-side connector when the module-side connector is coupled to an electrode pad; and a magnetic portion; and an electrical stimulation system in electrical communication with the module-side connector.

12. The system of claim 11, wherein the engagement portion is configured to magnetically and electrically communicate with an engagement portion comprising a complementary curved surface.

13. The system of claim 11, further comprising an electrode pad comprising: a complementary engagement portion m electrical and magnetic communication with the engagement portion; and a conductive pad in electrical communication with the complementary engagement portion.

14. The system of claim 13, wherein the complementary engagement portion comprises a ferrous material.5653901856.1Atty. Docket No. 96509-613815. The system of claim 11 , wherein the engagement portion is conductive.

16. The system of claim 11, wherein the engagement portion comprises a detent.

17. The system of claim 13, wherein the engagement portion comprises a detent and the complementary engagement portion comprises a protrusion.

18. The system of claim 11, wherein the housing is configured to rotate in at least two planes.

19. The system of claim 13, wherein the engagement portion and the complementary engagement portion each comprise a curved surface.

20. The system of claim 13, wherein the engagement portion comprises a first portion of a ball joint, and wherein the complementary engagement portion comprises a second complementary portion of a ball joint.

21. The system of claim 13, wherein the complementary engagement portion connects to the conductive pad via a snap fit connection.

22. An electrode connection system comprising: a module-side connector comprising: an electrically conductive housing; an engagement portion comprising a curved surface configured to facilitate three-dimensional movement of the module-side connector when the module-side connector is coupled to an electrode pad; and a magnetic portion; and a station in communication with the module-side connector.

23. The system of claim 22, wherein the station comprises a charging system.

24. The system of claim 22, wherein the station comprises a communication system.5753901856.1Atty. Docket No. 96509-613825. The system of claim 22, wherein the station comprises a connector including a stud having a protruding portion with an electrically conductive convex curved surface shaped corresponding to the curved surface of the engagement portion to allow the stud to fit into and magnetically and electrically couple to the engagement portion allowing three- dimensional movement between the stud and the engagement portion while magnetically and electrically coupled together.

26. The system of claim 25, wherein the connector further comprises a magnet configured to attract the magnetic portion of the module-side connector.

27. A station for an electrical stimulation device, the station comprising: a first connector comprising: a first stud having an electrically conductive protruding portion; and a first magnet; a second connector comprising: a second stud having an electrically conductive protruding portion; and a second magnet; and an electronics module electrically coupled to the first stud and the second stud, wherein a positive pole of the first magnet is oriented towards the first stud and a negative pole of the second magnet is oriented towards the second stud.

28. The station of claim 27, wherein the first connector is configured to magnetically and electrically couple to a first module-side connector and the second connector is configured to magnetically couple to a second module-side connector.

29. The station of claim 28, wherein the second connector is configured to repel the first module-side connector and the first connector is configured to repel the second moduleside connector.

30. The station of claim 27, wherein the electronics module comprises a charging system.

31. The station of claim 27, wherein the electronics module comprises a communication system.5853901856.1Atty. Docket No. 96509-613832. A connector assembly for magnetically and electrically connecting an electrical stimulation module to an electrode pad, comprising: a module-side connector; and an electrode-side connector, wherein the module-side connector and the electrode-side connector comprise means for coupling together in a magnetic and electrical connection where the moduleside connector can rotate and tilt relative to the electrode-side connector while maintaining the magnetic and electrical connection between the module-side connector and the electrode-side connector33. An electrostimulation (EMS) sy stem comprising: a first EMS device configured to apply first EMS pulses on a first channel; a second EMS device configured to apply second EMS pulses on a second channel; a third EMS device configured to apply third EMS pulses on a third channel; and fourth EMS device configured to apply fourth EMS pulses on a fourth channel, wherein: the first EMS device communicates wirelessly with each of the secondEMS device, the third EMS device, and the fourth EMS device; and during a synchronization phase, the first EMS device determines: a peripheral device number for each of the second, third, and fourth EMS devices indicative of the order in which the first EMS device will wirelessly communicate with the second, third, and fourth EMS devices, a connection interval representing a time interval between successive connection events betw een the first EMS device and each of the second, third, and fourth EMS devices, wherein the connection interval is the same for communications between the first EMS device and each of the second, third, and fourth EMS devices, and an offset between a connection event betw een the first EMS device and the second EMS device, a connection event between the first EMS device and the third EMS device, and a connection event between the first EMS device, and the fourth EMS device, wherein the offset is the same for each; and5953901856.1Atty. Docket No. 96509-6138 during an EMS phase, second, third, and fourth EMS pulses are delayed to avoid overlap based on the peripheral device number, the connection interval, and the offset.

34. The EMS system of Claim 33, wherein the first, second, third, and fourth EMS devices communicate wirelessly over Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) protocol.

35. The EMS system of Claim 33, wherein the second, third, and fourth EMS devices do not wireless communicate with each other.

36. The EMS system of Claim 33, further comprising a control device, wherein the control device communicates wirelessly with the first EMS device.

37. The EMS system of Claim 33, wherein the first EMS device, the second EMS device, the third EMS device, and the fourth EMS device are identical devices.

38. The EMS system of Claim 33, wherein the second, third, and fourth EMS pulses are delayed based on a pulse delay representative of a desired delay between pulses of adjacent channels.6053901856.1

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