Dual-Function Electrode Wearable for Cardiac Monitoring and Stimulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wearable devices for monitoring heart parameters lack the capability for immediate treatment during acute cardiac crises and do not offer comprehensive prevention treatments, relying on separate monitoring and treatment units.
Innovation Solution
A portable, wearable module that integrates monitoring and treatment functions, using dual-function electrodes for both heart parameter measurement and electrical neuro-stimulation, allowing for continuous monitoring and on-the-spot treatment, including low-level electrical stimulation of peripheral nerves to modulate heart rate and improve heart-rate variability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate monitoring and treatment units are used, then device functionality is comprehensive, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines monitoring and treatment functions into a single integrated wearable device. The device includes both monitoring electrodes for detecting heart parameters and stimulation electrodes for delivering neuro-stimulation treatment, along with a control unit that coordinates both functions. This merging eliminates the need for separate monitoring and treatment units while maintaining comprehensive functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The wearable device is designed as a multi-functional system that can perform both monitoring and treatment operations. The control unit can selectively activate monitoring mode, treatment mode, or both simultaneously based on detected heart parameters. This universal design allows a single device to replace multiple specialized devices.
2Reliability
If continuous monitoring and immediate treatment are provided, then treatment responsiveness is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device implements a feedback mechanism where the control unit continuously monitors heart parameters through monitoring electrodes and automatically triggers treatment through stimulation electrodes when abnormal conditions are detected. The control unit processes detected parameters and selectively activates treatment functions based on pre-programmed criteria, enabling immediate responsive treatment without requiring separate external monitoring and treatment systems.
3Device complexity
If dual-function electrodes are used, then device integration is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The device uses distinct monitoring electrodes and stimulation electrodes with different configurations and placements. Monitoring electrodes are positioned for optimal heart parameter detection, while stimulation electrodes are positioned for effective nerve stimulation. This segmentation allows each electrode type to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall device integration.
Solution Approach 2:
Different electrodes within the device have specialized properties tailored to their specific functions. Monitoring electrodes are designed with properties optimized for electrical signal detection, while stimulation electrodes are designed with properties optimized for delivering controlled electrical pulses. This local quality differentiation enables each component to perform its function effectively without compromising overall device integration.
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 immediate treatment and prevention of cardiac issues through continuous monitoring and neuro-stimulation, enhancing heart health and wellness by adjusting stimulation parameters based on real-time and historical data, improving heart rate variability and overall cardiovascular system interaction.
Implementation Method 1
a monitoring unit for monitoring electrical activity
Implementation Method 2
a stimulation unit for inducing electrical signals; to electrically neuro-stimulate at least one peripheral nerve
Data Source
Figure 1a~1c
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AI summary
Disclosed herein are portable and integrated modules and devices for non-intrusive neuromodulation and monitoring of heart function, and methods of operation thereof. The modules and devices include a monitoring unit, an electrical stimulation inducing unit, and three electrodes, such that one of the electrodes is dual-function, being controllably utilized for neuromodulation or for monitoring of heart function.