Integrated Electrode Connector with LED Impedance Indicator
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
In multi-electrode devices, the close proximity of electrodes and their impedance indicators makes it difficult to determine which indicator corresponds to a specific electrode, leading to ambiguity in assessing the status of electrode connections, especially in limited space.
Innovation Solution
An integrated electrode connector and impedance indicator apparatus with a light-transmitting housing that incorporates both functions in a single device, using a locating post and an LED or similar light-emitting indicator to provide clear and unambiguous status indication of electrode impedance within or outside the operational range.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate electrode connectors and impedance indicators are used, then the indicator function is provided, but the space required increases and identification becomes ambiguous
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the electrode connector and impedance indicator into a single integrated unit. The indicator is positioned within or adjacent to the connector housing, allowing both functions to occupy the same spatial footprint. This eliminates the need for separate indicator components and reduces overall space requirements while maintaining clear identification through direct visual association between the indicator and its corresponding connector.
2Area of stationary object
If impedance indicators are placed close to electrodes, then space is saved, but it becomes difficult to determine which indicator corresponds to which electrode
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by providing visual differentiation features at specific locations. The connector housing includes visual indicators such as colored regions, markings, or transparent portions that correspond to the impedance indicator status. This localized visual information directly at the connector location enables clear identification of which electrode is being indicated without requiring separate indicator components, thus preserving correspondence information while saving space.
3Reliability
If multiple separate indicators are used for multiple electrodes, then each electrode status can be indicated, but the complexity of the device increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements multi-functionality by designing the connector housing to serve dual purposes: electrical connection and visual indication. The same structural component (connector housing) that provides the electrical interface also incorporates or houses the impedance indicator. This eliminates the need for separate indicator components for each electrode, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining the ability to monitor multiple electrodes through their respective integrated connectors.
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 solution saves space and provides clear, unambiguous indication of electrode connection status, resolving the ambiguity in identifying malfunctioning electrodes in densely packed configurations.
Implementation Method 1
an impedance indicator means, and a light-transmitting housing
Implementation Method 2
The impedance indicator may be an LED or some other suitable light-emitting device
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The present invention provides an integrated electrode connector and impedance indicator apparatus comprising of an electrode connector, an impedance indicator means; and a light-transmitting housing. The impedance indicator may be located in a recess in the housing. Preferably the impedance indicator means is an LED. Preferably the impedance indicator emits light when the impedance is outside of an operational range. The apparatus is suited for applications such as indicating the status of EEG electrodes.