Convex Neuromodulation Electrode with Conductive Gel and Isolating Frame
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for electrical stimulation to treat pain and improve body function are unfocused and lack depth penetration, causing discomfort and skin irritation due to hard electrodes and inadequate penetration of stimulation.
Innovation Solution
A neuromodulation electrode device with a conductive gel layer and an isolating frame that focuses electrical stimulation, providing increased comfort and deeper penetration, using a substrate with a convex active surface and a conductive gel layer for improved attachment and reduced risk of burns.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If a domed or ball-like electrode is pressed into the skin to provide deeper penetration, then the penetration depth is improved, but patient discomfort and skin irritation increase
Solution Approach 1:
The electrode surface is changed from a hard domed shape to a soft compliant shape that can be deformed by pressing, allowing deeper penetration while maintaining patient comfort. The material parameter changes from rigid to compliant, enabling the electrode to conform to skin contours and reduce irritation during prolonged use.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrode combines a conductive substrate with a soft compliant coating layer, creating a composite structure that provides both electrical conductivity and mechanical compliance. This composite material allows the electrode to maintain its shape for effective stimulation while being gentle on the skin during application.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a softer coating is applied to the electrode to reduce discomfort, then patient comfort is improved, but the ability to maintain position and provide focussed stimulation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
Different regions of the electrode have different properties: the bulk material provides structural support and shape retention, while the surface coating provides softness and comfort. This local differentiation allows the electrode to maintain position effectively while being comfortable during prolonged use.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrode features a domed or curved surface geometry that concentrates electrical stimulation at the apex while distributing mechanical pressure evenly across the contact area. This curvature provides both focussed electrical delivery and comfortable skin contact.
3Area of stationary object
If electrical stimulation is applied across the whole extent of the conductive gel substrate, then coverage area is improved, but stimulation effectiveness deteriorates due to attenuation
Solution Approach 1:
The conductive gel substrate is segmented into multiple independent conductive elements or zones, each capable of delivering focussed stimulation. This segmentation allows selective activation of specific regions to maintain stimulation intensity while providing broader coverage capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The conductive gel acts as an intermediary medium that transmits electrical stimulation from the electrode to the skin. By optimizing the gel's conductivity and contact properties, effective stimulation is maintained across larger treatment areas without significant attenuation.
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 device enhances comfort and effectiveness by focusing electrical stimulation, reducing discomfort and skin irritation while maintaining longer application times and improving pain relief and body function.
Implementation Method 1
a conductive gel layer having an electrode portion overlying the convex active surface(s) of the electrode
Implementation Method 2
an isolating frame extending around the perimeter of the electrode to provide electrical isolation between the electrode and the conductive gel substrate
Data Source
AI summary
A device, system and method for the delivery of electrical stimulation for the treatment of acute or chronic pain and/or for the improvement of body function. There is described a neuromodulation electrode device including a substrate having a skin-facing surface and an electrode having at least one convex active surface projecting from the skin-facing surface of substrate for applying an electrical stimulation signal. A conductive gel layer having an electrode portion overlies the convex active surface(s) of the electrode. The substrate is formed of a conductive gel or the conductive gel layer further includes a substrate portion overlying the skin-facing surface of the substrate. The device further includes an isolating frame surrounding the perimeter of the electrode to provide electrical isolation between the electrode and the conductive gel substrate or from the substrate portion of the conductive gel layer.