Flexible Ear Canal Electrode Structure With Snap-On Stimulation Contact
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing nerve stimulation electrode structures for the external ear are complex, expensive, and difficult to manufacture and connect, especially for use inside the ear canal, where they must accommodate varying ear sizes and require easy replacement due to skin contact issues.
Innovation Solution
A bendable electrode structure with snap connectors and a flexible base allows the electrodes to be easily inserted into the ear canal, providing good contact with the ear channel and enabling easy connection to a stimulation device, while being cost-effective and adaptable to different ear sizes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If known electrode structures are used in ear plugs or headsets, then nerve stimulation function is achieved, but manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The electrode structure is divided into separate components: a reusable stimulation device and replaceable electrode parts (ear plugs or ear buds). This segmentation allows the complex stimulation electronics to be manufactured once and reused, while only the simple contact parts need frequent replacement, reducing overall manufacturing complexity and cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrode contact parts are designed to be nested within or attached to the stimulation device housing. The ear plug or ear bud contains the electrode element that can be inserted into the ear canal, while the stimulation electronics are housed in the main device body, creating a nested structure that simplifies manufacturing.
2Reliability
If known electrode structures are used in ear plugs, then vagus nerve stimulation is achieved, but connection to stimulation device becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The system is segmented into a stimulation device with connection interface and separate electrode parts with matching connectors. This allows the electrode parts to be easily attached and detached from the stimulation device without complex assembly procedures, improving ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection interface is designed to be dynamic and adaptable, allowing the electrode parts to be easily connected and disconnected from the stimulation device. The connector design enables quick attachment and detachment without requiring precise alignment or complex manipulation, making the system easy to operate.
3Reliability
If electrode parts need to be changed frequently due to skin contact, then stimulation effectiveness is maintained, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electrode structure is segmented into reusable and replaceable components. The stimulation electronics remain in the main device, while only the skin-contacting electrode parts (ear plugs or ear buds) are designed for easy replacement. This segmentation maintains stimulation effectiveness through frequent replacement of contact parts without increasing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrode contact parts (ear plugs or ear buds) are designed as disposable or short-lived components that can be easily replaced. These simple contact elements are manufactured at low cost and discarded after limited use due to skin contact issues, while the expensive stimulation electronics are preserved and reused.
4Reliability
If flat electrodes with stickers are used, then electrical contact is achieved, but use inside ear channel becomes impossible
Solution Approach 1:
The electrode structure is changed from a flat planar form to a curved or three-dimensional form that conforms to the ear canal geometry. The ear plug or ear bud design allows the electrode to wrap around or contact the ear canal walls in multiple points, adapting to the curved anatomy of the ear while maintaining electrical contact.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrode contact surface is made flexible and conformable, allowing it to adapt to the curved surfaces of the ear canal. The ear plug or ear bud structure uses flexible materials that can be inserted into the ear canal and maintain contact with the ear walls, providing both adaptability and electrical conductivity.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to nerve stimulation electrode structure for external ear, said electrode structure comprising a first electrode (111), a second electrode (112), a base (B) for supporting the electrodes, said electrode structure further comprising connecting points (113, 114) for the electrodes for creating connection to a stimulation device (106). At least in the area between the electrodes the base (B), said base being planar, comprises a flexible bending area (130) for enabling the electrode structure to be bent to an inclined position forming a first wing (W1) for the first electrode and a second wing (W2) for the second electrode for enabling electrode contact to the ear on both outer sides of the bended electrode structure.