Electrode Connector Piercing Insulation for Single-Handed Use
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing non-invasive transcutaneous electrode assemblies face issues with material waste, difficulty in single-handed connection and disconnection, potential damage from excessive force, and complex alignment requirements, leading to usability and sustainability challenges.
Innovation Solution
A self-gripping electrode assembly with conductive protuberances that pierce an insulating stratum for secure connection and disconnection without exposed conductive elements, allowing single-handed operation and reduced material usage, featuring a connector that modifies its orientation for easy attachment and detachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of substance
If traditional connectors (snap connectors, hooks and loops, magnetic connectors, pin connectors) are used on disposable electrodes, then electrical connection to external devices is established, but valuable materials (metals, ferromagnetic components) are wasted and the electrode structure becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the connector from the disposable electrode, extracting only the necessary functional element (conductive substrate area) and leaving the complex connector mechanism on the reusable external device. This eliminates material waste in disposable electrodes while reducing their structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The external device is designed with universal connection capabilities that can interface with multiple electrode types without requiring complex connectors on each electrode. The reusable device assumes the complex connection functionality, allowing simple disposable electrodes to be universally compatible.
2Ease of operation
If traditional connectors requiring precise alignment (snap connectors, pin connectors) are used, then secure electrical connection is achieved, but connection time increases and single-handed operation becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs asymmetric connector designs where the male connector has a directional insertion path that guides alignment automatically. The tapered geometry and asymmetric features allow intuitive one-handed connection without requiring precise bilateral alignment, reducing connection time and effort.
3Reliability
If excessive force is applied during connector attachment and detachment, then secure connection is ensured, but the electrode may be damaged (insulating layer torn, conductive substrate damaged)
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates cushioning elements and progressive engagement features in the connector design that distribute attachment forces over time and area. The insulating layer and conductive substrate are protected by gradual engagement mechanisms that prevent sudden force spikes, ensuring reliable connection without damaging the delicate electrode structure.
4Reliability
If connectors with exposed conductive elements are used, then electrical connection is established, but the risk of unwanted electrical contact increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs nested connector designs where conductive elements are enclosed within insulating housings or recesses. The male and female connectors feature nested geometries that guide precise engagement while preventing exposure of conductive surfaces, thereby eliminating unwanted electrical contact risks while maintaining reliable electrical connection during proper engagement.
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 enables cost-effective, ecologically sustainable, and user-friendly electrode assemblies that can connect and disconnect easily, withstand forces without damage, and allow for repositioning of the stimulated area without moving the electrode, improving usability and reducing material waste.
Implementation Method 1
The free ends of the gripping means are sharpened elements configured to pierce the insulating stratum
Implementation Method 2
The connector body is capable to take a first configuration and a second configuration in response to a force so as to modify a relative orientation of the sharpened elements
Data Source
AI summary
The invention concerns an assembly (100) for delivering electrical currents to and/or sensing electrical signals from a skin portion of an individual. The assembly comprises an electrode (1) having an electrical conductive portion (2) with a surface for entering in contact with a skin portion (200) of the individual and an electrical insulating stratum (3) covering the electrical conductive portion (2). The assembly comprises a conductor assembly (40) having a connector assembly (4) with protuberances (8) for removably retaining the electrode and electrically connecting said electrical conductive portion (2) of the electrode to said monitoring and/or stimulating device. The protuberances have sharpened elements (8) for piercing the insulating stratum (3) and engaging themselves inside the electrical conductive portion (2).