Ergonomic Bio-impedance Device with Pincer Electrode Guide
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current bio-impedance devices for the general public lack precise and reproducible electrode positioning, which is necessary for accurate multifrequency measurements, due to the complexity and cost of professional-grade devices.
Innovation Solution
A bio-impedance measurement device with a single support that accommodates both hands and feet, featuring a pincer structure for reproducible electrode placement, allowing users to position electrodes correctly with minimal training, enabling precise and reproducible positioning of upper and lower electrodes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multifrequency measurements are implemented in consumer devices, then measurement precision and reliability are improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The device segments the electrode positioning function into a dedicated mechanical guide structure with pincer-shaped extensions that independently handle electrode placement, separating this complex positioning task from the measurement electronics and making the overall system more manageable and less complex
Solution Approach 2:
The guide structure enables users to perform precise electrode positioning themselves through intuitive mechanical guidance, eliminating the need for professional operators and reducing operational complexity while maintaining high measurement precision
2Measurement precision
If professional-grade electrode positioning is required for accurate measurements, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to requiring professional training
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical guide structure acts as an intermediary between the user and the electrode positioning task, providing physical guidance that automatically ensures correct electrode placement without requiring users to have professional knowledge or training
Solution Approach 2:
The device enables self-service electrode positioning through its intuitive mechanical guide structure with pincer-shaped extensions that naturally guide users to the correct placement positions, making professional-grade measurements accessible to ordinary consumers
3Measurement precision
If multiple electrodes are used for multifrequency measurements, then measurement precision is improved, but positioning reproducibility deteriorates due to difficulty in maintaining consistent placement
Solution Approach 1:
The guide structure performs preliminary positioning action by pre-defining the exact locations where electrodes should be placed, ensuring that each measurement starts with identical electrode positions and thereby guaranteeing reproducibility across multiple measurements
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces the unreliable manual mechanical positioning system with a rigid mechanical guide structure featuring pincer-shaped extensions that physically constrain and standardize electrode placement, eliminating variability in positioning while maintaining the necessary multi-electrode configuration
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 accurate multifrequency bio-impedance measurements by ensuring consistent electrode placement, reducing errors and improving measurement reliability for users, making high-precision body composition analysis accessible to the general public.
Implementation Method 1
The principle of the measurement consists in passing an electric current through the body of a subject and measuring the impedance observed for a given current frequency
Implementation Method 2
Multifrequency measurements exploit the fact that noble tissues, typically proteins, have a biodynamic defense reaction to the passage of the specific current. This reaction is more or less effective depending on the frequency of the current and the tissue itself
Implementation Method 3
the membrane of the cells are very resistive and therefore behave like so many dielectrics separating small conductors formed by the internal fluids of the cells
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3A~4
Figure 5A~5B
AI summary
The apparatus has upper electrodes (20a, 20b) supported by a support (10). Two lower elements (21a, 21b) are supported by extensions (11a, 11b) of the support. The extensions form a clamp structure to clamp ankle or foot of a user by providing a hand on the support toward the ankle or foot. The lower electrodes are set in contact with the skin in two distinct points located on both sides of the ankle or foot by clamping action. An electronic module comprises transmission units to transmit bio-impedance measurements toward a data processing and/or display device e.g. Internet server. The support is realized from a plate made of flexible material.