Curved Electrode Array for Full-Body Electrostimulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrostimulation devices, such as mats and cuffs, with punctiform or linear electrodes are ineffective in providing comprehensive nerve or muscle stimulation due to limited electrical field strength and inadequate electrode placement, failing to achieve optimal muscle or nerve activation.
Innovation Solution
A device with flat electrodes arranged in pairs along a central axis, featuring a curved surface and adjustable inclination to match body contours, allowing for simultaneous or sequential activation of electrode pairs to create a wave-shaped stimulation effect, optimized for full-body or part-body electrostimulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If punctiform or linear electrodes are arranged in a planar mat, then the device structure is simple, but the electrical stimulation effectiveness is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The planar mat is transformed into a three-dimensional contoured surface that adapts to body contours. The support element includes recesses and protrusions that create a non-planar, body-conforming surface, allowing electrodes to be positioned in valleys and on slopes to optimize contact with muscles and nerves throughout the body.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrode arrangement transitions from a two-dimensional planar grid to a three-dimensional distributed pattern on a contoured surface. This adds the dimension of vertical relief and body-conforming geometry, enabling electrodes to reach muscle groups that are inaccessible in flat configurations.
2Area of stationary object
If electrodes are arranged to cover larger body areas, then the stimulation coverage is improved, but the cabling and control complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple electrodes are integrated into a single monolithic support element rather than being separate components requiring individual cabling. The support element with embedded electrodes functions as one unified unit, simplifying installation and control while maintaining extensive body coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The support element serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural support, conforms to body contours, positions multiple electrodes across different body regions, and can be controlled as an integrated unit. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components and complex control systems.
3Adaptability or versatility
If flat electrodes are used on a planar surface, then the manufacturing is simple, but the adaptation to body contours is inadequate
Solution Approach 1:
The support element is formed with three-dimensional contours including recesses, slopes, and protrusions that match body surfaces. This curved, non-planar geometry enables the electrodes to conform to complex body contours while maintaining manufacturing feasibility through molding or forming processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The support element functions as a flexible or semi-rigid shell that can adapt to body surfaces. The thin-walled construction with integrated electrodes allows the structure to conform to varying body geometries while remaining manufacturable through conventional forming techniques.
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
This design enables more effective muscle stimulation by ensuring electrodes cover larger areas, reducing cabling and control complexity, and allowing for customizable wave-shaped stimulation, enhancing the overall electrostimulation experience.
Implementation Method 1
During nerve stimulation, an electric field strength with a sufficiently strong gradient is applied, which triggers an action potential in the nerve
Implementation Method 2
an action potential in the nerve, which travels along the motor nerve to the motor end plate of the addressed muscle
Implementation Method 3
the electrical resistance of the skin to an electrical stimulus is inversely proportional to the frequency. Frequencies between 1,000 and 10,000 Hz have proven to be particularly effective
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to an electrical stimulation device with a full-body pad and electrodes arranged in the pad, wherein the electrodes are arranged in pairs around a central longitudinal axis of the device and are designed to be controllable sequentially or simultaneously. The invention further relates to a method for controlling several electrodes in an electrical stimulation device, wherein the electrodes are arranged in or on the electrical stimulation device, which has a partial-body or full-body pad, wherein the electrodes are designed to be controllable sequentially or simultaneously, and wherein the electrodes are controlled individually or in pairs with respect to a duration and/or intensity of stimulation (Fig. 1).