Conductive Cloth Protector for Targeted Electrotherapy and Thermotherapy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wearable protectors for electrotherapy and thermotherapy are limited by conductive textiles that cannot target specific areas, are prone to cracking and skin allergies, and are not suitable for stretchable applications.
Innovation Solution
A functional protector with a conductive cloth made of silver fiber, nanometer silver wires, or conductive paste, featuring electrode parts and joint parts, allowing for targeted electrotherapy and thermotherapy on specific areas while maintaining elasticity and adhesion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conductive textiles are used on the whole surface of the protector, then electrotherapy and thermotherapy can be performed, but it is impossible to target specific small areas and pathological parts
Solution Approach 1:
The conductive textile is segmented into multiple independent electrode parts (first electrode part, second electrode part, third electrode part) that can be selectively activated. Each electrode part corresponds to a specific anatomical region (knee joint, thigh, calf), allowing targeted therapy without requiring complex wiring or switching mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the protector have different conductive properties tailored to their specific functions. The knee joint area has enhanced conductivity with silver fiber cloth for targeted pain relief, while other areas use standard conductive textile. This local differentiation enables precise therapy without complicating the overall design.
2Adaptability or versatility
If electrode materials are used on stretch elastic cloth, then the protector can be worn on various body parts, but the electrode material is easy to crack and does not smoothly stick to the skin thus causing allergies and burns
Solution Approach 1:
The electrode structure uses a composite material system: silver fiber cloth provides excellent conductivity and stretchability, conductive paste ensures stable electrical contact, and medical-grade adhesive provides skin compatibility and hypoallergenic properties. This composite approach resolves the contradiction between stretchability and reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
A multi-layer intermediate structure is introduced between the electrode material and skin: conductive paste layer provides electrical contact, medical adhesive layer provides secure attachment, and breathable fabric layer provides comfort. This intermediary system prevents direct skin irritation while maintaining electrode integrity during stretching.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the protector is made of stretch elastic cloth, then it can fit different body types, but conventional electrode materials cannot be used when the protector is extended
Solution Approach 1:
The electrode system is designed to be dynamic rather than static. The conductive textile and electrode parts are integrated into the stretch elastic cloth using elastic conductive threads and flexible adhesives that maintain electrical continuity during stretching and deformation, allowing the protector to adapt to different body sizes while maintaining functionality.
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 protector provides effective electrotherapy and thermotherapy on specific areas without causing skin irritation, suitable for various body types, and maintains conductivity even under stretching.
Implementation Method 1
The conductive cloth includes a conducting wire (arranged on the body) and at least one electrode part (electrically connected to the conducting wire and arranged on the body). The electrode connection part transmits signals onto the conductive cloth, so that the electrode part of the conductive cloth generates an effect of electrotherapy
Implementation Method 2
a functional protector with electric conduction and heat conduction including a body, a conductive cloth, at least one electrode connection part and at least one joint part
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure discloses a functional protector with electric conduction and heat conduction including a body, a conductive cloth and at least one electrode connection part. The body is an elastic stretch cloth. At least one joint part is arranged on the body. The conductive cloth is arranged on one side of the body. A conducting wire and at least one electrode part electrically connected to the conducting wire are arranged on the conductive cloth. The electrode connection parts are arranged on the body, through the body and electrically connected to the conductive cloth. Moreover, the electrode connection part transmits signals onto the conductive cloth, so that the electrode part of the conductive cloth generates an effect of an electrotherapy or a thermotherapy, or both the electrotherapy and the thermotherapy simultaneously.