Bio-Signal Patch Connector Sealing for Reliable Reusable Attachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bio-signal measurement devices face challenges with complex and expensive electromechanical connections that include metal parts and electrical connectors, making them costly to manufacture and assemble, especially when interfacing with disposable patch electrode arrangements.
Innovation Solution
A bio-signal apparatus featuring a non-conductive sheet with patch electrodes and reusable connection parts, utilizing helical grooves or threads for secure attachment, sealed with a moisture-resistant interface, and incorporating quick-release fasteners for easy detachment and reconnection, along with a data processing unit for signal reception and storage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional electromechanical connectors with metal parts and electrical connectors are used to interface the disposable patch electrode arrangement with the non-disposable bio-signal measurement device, then reliable electrical connection and mechanical fixation are achieved, but the manufacturing cost and assembly complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the electrical connection function from the mechanical attachment function. The disposable patch electrode arrangement includes conductive elements that establish electrical contact with the measurement device through a simplified mechanical interface, separating the complex electromechanical connector into distinct functional components. This reduces the complexity of the disposable portion while maintaining reliable connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The measurement device is designed with a universal interface that can accommodate different disposable patch electrode arrangements. The connector design allows a single non-disposable device to work with multiple disposable variants, reducing the need for multiple specialized connectors and simplifying the overall system while maintaining reliable electrical and mechanical connections.
2Reliability
If traditional electromechanical connectors with metal parts and electrical connectors are used to interface the disposable patch electrode arrangement with the non-disposable bio-signal measurement device, then reliable electrical connection and mechanical fixation are achieved, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the disposable principle by making the patch electrode arrangement and its connector components disposable, while the expensive measurement device with the main connector is reusable. This allows the disposable portion to be manufactured cheaply using simpler materials and processes, reducing overall manufacturing costs while maintaining reliable connections during use.
Solution Approach 2:
The system is segmented into disposable and reusable components. The disposable patch electrode arrangement includes a simplified connector that can be manufactured at low cost, while the reusable measurement device contains the more complex and expensive connector components. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function and manufacturing constraints, reducing total system cost.
3Device complexity
If a simplified connection mechanism is used to reduce complexity and cost, then manufacturing and assembly become easier, but the reliability of electrical connection and mechanical fixation may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The connector design incorporates built-in alignment features and guide structures that ensure proper positioning before electrical contact is established. These features act as a cushioning mechanism that prevents misalignment and ensures reliable connection even with the simplified design, maintaining reliability while reducing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical locking mechanisms with simpler attachment methods that rely on friction, adhesion, or elastic deformation. The connection reliability is maintained through careful design of the contact surfaces and materials rather than through complex mechanical interlocks, reducing overall connector complexity while preserving reliable electrical and mechanical connection.
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 1C~2B
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
A bio-signal apparatus comprises a first connection part (10), a second connection part (14) and a seal (16). The first connection part (10) comprises a sheet (12), which carries a patch electrode structure (18) and comprises electrodes (20) for reception of a bio-signal from a body (102) of a mammal (100) and first electrical connectors (22), the first electrical connectors (22) being electrically connected with the electrodes (20). The second connection part (14) comprises counterpart electrical connectors (24), and the first electrical connectors (22) and the counterpart electrical connectors (24) being repeatedly attachable and releasable with each other for transferring the bio-signal therethrough to data processing. The seal (16) seals an interface of the first connection part (10) and the second connection part (14) against dust and moisture, and the seal (16) surrounds the first electrical connectors (22) and the counterpart electrical connectors (24) in a continuous manner.