Electrode Positioning System With Elastic Structural Links
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current electrode systems for electrical stimulation and biosignal detection face issues such as inadequate contact, discomfort, and limited adaptability to individual anatomical variations, making them insufficient for various applications, especially in non-clinical environments.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a set of pads, a band, and structural links with an elastic modulus above a threshold, allowing for proper positioning of electrodes at the head region, preventing deflection, and maintaining a perpendicular orientation to the scalp, enhancing comfort and impedance characteristics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If current electrode systems are used for electrical stimulation and biosignal detection, then electrical signals can be transmitted and detected, but inadequate contact between subject and electrode occurs, resulting in poor signal quality and system reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by using imaging data to pre-determine optimal electrode positions on the subject's anatomy before actual electrode application. The processor identifies target locations based on anatomical features, and the system guides the user to place electrodes at these pre-calculated positions, ensuring both reliable contact and anatomical accuracy without requiring manual trial-and-error positioning
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces an intermediary computational layer that processes imaging data and generates positioning guidance. This intermediary processor acts as a mediator between the raw anatomical data and the physical electrode placement, translating complex anatomical variations into simple visual guidance cues that ensure precise and reliable electrode contact
2Adaptability or versatility
If current electrode systems are used, then electrical stimulation can be provided, but subject discomfort occurs due to improper positioning and inadequate accommodation of individual anatomical variation
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies dynamics by adapting electrode positioning guidance to each individual subject's unique anatomy. The processor dynamically generates customized positioning instructions based on the subject's specific anatomical features extracted from imaging data, allowing the system to accommodate individual variations while maintaining ease of self-positioning through visual feedback
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service by allowing subjects to position their own electrodes using visual guidance from the application. The processor provides step-by-step instructions and real-time feedback that empowers non-expert users to achieve proper electrode placement independently, accommodating individual anatomy without requiring clinical personnel
3Manufacturing precision
If electrodes are positioned without guidance systems, then the system structure remains simple, but electrodes may deflect or orient improperly relative to the scalp, reducing effectiveness
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces complex mechanical positioning mechanisms with a software-based visual guidance system. Instead of using mechanical guides, fixtures, or physical alignment tools, the processor generates visual instructions displayed through a user interface that guide electrode placement, achieving precise orientation while keeping the physical hardware simple
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 system ensures robust and comfortable electrode positioning, preventing undesired orientations and maintaining effective contact, allowing for efficient electrical stimulation and biosignal detection in various settings, including non-clinical environments.
Implementation Method 1
a set of links coupled to the band and to the electrode, having an elastic modulus above a threshold value such that deflection of the electrode is prevented
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for stimulating a user, the system comprising: a set of pads configured at head regions of the user; a band having a first end coupled to a first pad of the set of pads and a second end coupled to a second pad of the set of pads; a bridge coupled the band and to an electrode during use; and a set of links, each link coupled at a first region to an interior portion of its corresponding pad, and coupled at a second region to the bridge, having an elastic modulus above a threshold modulus such that: in a first mode, displacement of the set of pads produces displacement of the electrode away from the head region of the user, and in a second mode, release of the set of pads orients protrusions of the electrode approximately normal to the head region.