Stimulation Electrode Identification for Automatic Connection Verification
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Solution Overview
Problem
The burden on medical workers is significant due to the need for manual verification of proper connection between the stimulation electrode unit and the stimulation control device.
Innovation Solution
Incorporation of an information element retaining identifier information in the stimulation electrode unit, relay cable, or stimulation control device, allowing the stimulation control device to automatically verify the connection of an adequate stimulation electrode unit through electric circuitry, reducing the need for manual checks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual verification of connection is performed, then connection accuracy can be confirmed, but the burden on medical workers increases
Solution Approach 1:
The stimulation electrode unit performs self-identification through the information element that automatically transmits identifier information to the stimulation control device, enabling the system to verify connection accuracy without requiring manual verification by medical workers
Solution Approach 2:
The manual verification process is replaced by an automated electronic identification system where the information element in the electrode unit communicates with the control device through electric circuitry, substituting human visual/physical verification with automated electronic detection
2Ease of operation
If automated verification is implemented, then the burden on medical workers is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The information element serves multiple functions: it identifies the electrode unit type, enables automated verification, and provides traceability information, allowing a single component to address multiple system requirements without proportionally increasing complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The information element acts as an intermediary component between the electrode unit and the control device, facilitating automated communication and verification while keeping the added complexity localized to a single modular element rather than distributed throughout the entire system
Data Source
AI summary
A stimulation electrode unit includes a plurality of electrodes adapted to be attached to a living body. A stimulation control device is configured to form an electric circuitry with the stimulation electrode unit, and to control a stimulation current that is caused to flow into the living body through the electrodes. An information element retains identifier information identifying the stimulation electrode element. The stimulation control device is configured to read out the identifier information through the electric circuitry, and to determine, based on the identifier information, whether the electrical circuit is formed by an adequate stimulation electrode unit