Accelerometer Threshold Feedback for Stimulation Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical stimulation devices for improving venous circulation do not effectively indicate to users when the magnitude of stimulation is sufficient for maximum benefit, leading to inconsistent user responses.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a motion detector, such as an accelerometer, to monitor the device's motion and generate signals indicative of the amount of detected motion, with a processor to control the electrical stimulation voltage based on these signals, and output devices to notify users when the stimulation is sufficient or insufficient.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If electrical stimulation devices provide adjustable magnitude stimulation, then users can customize the stimulation level, but users cannot determine when the stimulation is sufficient for maximum benefit
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where motion sensors detect device movement caused by muscle contractions, and this information is processed to provide real-time feedback to the user. The system monitors the magnitude of motion and compares it against threshold values to determine whether the stimulation level is sufficient, then communicates this information back to the user through visual, auditory, or haptic signals, resolving the information gap about stimulation adequacy
2Reliability
If motion detection is added to provide feedback, then users can adjust stimulation to optimal level, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs self-service principles by using the device's own operational effects (mechanical motion from muscle contractions) as the measurement signal. The motion sensors detect movement that is naturally produced during stimulation, eliminating the need for separate measurement systems or additional external equipment, thus minimizing complexity while ensuring reliability
3Measurement precision
If real-time motion feedback is provided, then muscle contraction effectiveness can be monitored, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses periodic action by monitoring motion during specific stimulation cycles rather than continuously. Motion detection is activated during stimulation periods when muscle contractions occur, and the system processes motion data in discrete time windows corresponding to stimulation cycles, reducing overall energy consumption while maintaining measurement precision during critical measurement periods
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables users to adjust the electrical stimulation to an optimal level by providing real-time feedback on the device's motion, ensuring effective muscle contractions and improved venous circulation.
Implementation Method 1
a motion detector to detect the motion of the device and generating a motion output signal in response to the detected motion
Implementation Method 2
continuous electrical stimulation-induced contractions could improve lower leg circulation in subjects by eliciting the physiologic muscle pump
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatus (30) for detecting motion of a device (1) for electrical stimulation of a subject is described. The apparatus (30) comprises a motion detector (2) to detect the motion of the device (1) and generate a motion output signal in response to the detected motion. The motion output signal is indicative of the amount of detected motion. A processor (21) is coupled to the motion detector (20). The processor (21) receives (72) the motion output signal from the motion detector (20) and generates a first processor output signal in response to the received motion output signal. An output device (14, 26) is coupled to the processor (21). The output device (14, 26) receives the first processor output signal from the processor (21) and generates a first output signal in response to the received first processor output signal. The processor (21) generates the first processor output signal if either: (i) the received motion output signal is greater than a threshold; or (ii) the received motion output signal is less than a threshold.