Bio-impedance Electrode Patch with Active Potential Equalization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bio-impedance and bio-potential measurement devices suffer from poor integration due to the need for cables, which cause discomfort and are prone to signal artifacts, and bi-contact electrode sensors face challenges with sensitivity to impedance variations and manufacturing costs.
Innovation Solution
A measurement device with at least two electrode sensors connected by a single electrical connector, where the connector's potential is set equal to the projected potential of the sensors, allowing for a conductive garment without insulation and enabling simultaneous recharging, reducing sensitivity to impedance variations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If cables are used to connect electrodes to the centralized electronic unit, then electrical connections are established, but the subject resembles a 'Christmas tree' with poor overall integration and cable discomfort
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the electrodes, cables, and centralized electronic unit into a single integrated patch device. The cables are embedded within the patch structure, eliminating the need for external cable connections and achieving a unified device that reduces both complexity and discomfort.
Solution Approach 2:
The patch serves multiple functions simultaneously: it houses the electrodes for signal acquisition, contains the centralized electronic unit for signal processing, and integrates the cable connections within its structure. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate components.
2Reliability
If insulated and shielded cables are used to connect electrodes, then signal quality is maintained, but the system requires complex cable management and insulation
Solution Approach 1:
The cables are merged with the patch structure, becoming an integral part of the device rather than separate components. This integration eliminates the need for complex cable management while maintaining signal quality through the embedded connection structure.
3Ease of manufacture
If bi-contact electrode sensors are used, then manufacturing costs increase and sensitivity to impedance variations occurs, but electrode functionality is achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the active electronic components from the electrode structure itself and places them in the centralized electronic unit. This allows the electrodes to be simpler passive contacts, reducing manufacturing complexity and cost while the centralized unit handles the complex signal processing to eliminate sensitivity issues.
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
The solution provides improved signal quality, reduced impact from mains disturbances, and simplified recharging, while allowing for a conductive garment without insulation, enhancing user comfort and reducing manufacturing complexity.
Implementation Method 1
Each of the at least two electrode sensors comprises a first electrical contact configured to be in contact with the skin of the body... and a second electrical contact... for measuring a bio-potential
Implementation Method 2
an active device configured to cooperate with a subset of said at least two electrode sensors such that the potential of the electrical connector is substantially equal to a projected potential determined from the potential of the first electrical contact
Data Source
AI summary
Measurement device for measuring a bio-impedance and/or a bio-potential of a human or animal body and adapted to be worn on the body, including: at least two electrode sensors. Each of the at least two electrode sensors includes a first electrical contact configured to be in electrical contact with the skin of the body when the system is worn, and a second electrical contact. A single electrical connector electrically connects the at least two electrode sensors with each other via the second electrical contact. An active device is configured to cooperate with a subset of the at least two electrode sensors such that the potential of the electrical connector is substantially equal to a projected potential determined from the potential of the first electrical contact of each electrode sensor of the subset when the measurement device is worn.