Electrostimulation Garment Docking for Universal Therapy Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrostimulation systems require separate stimulation units for different garments and therapies, limiting flexibility and increasing costs due to the need for custom-made control units for each garment configuration.
Innovation Solution
A system with a single stimulation unit that can be connected to multiple garments via a docking station, utilizing configuration data to activate electrodes based on the garment's specific arrangement and properties, allowing a single unit to be used across various garments and therapies.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate stimulation units are used for different garments and therapies, then each garment configuration can be optimized for its specific therapy, but the system complexity and cost increase due to needing custom control units for each garment
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit is designed with a universal interface that can connect to multiple different garment configurations through the docking station. The control unit reads configuration data from the docking station to identify which garment is connected, then automatically adapts its output to match the specific electrode arrangement and therapy requirements of that garment. This allows a single control unit to perform multiple functions across different therapeutic applications.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters dynamically based on the detected garment configuration. When a garment is connected to the docking station, the control unit reads configuration data that identifies the specific electrode arrangement and therapy type, then adjusts stimulation parameters accordingly. This parameter adaptation enables the same hardware to effectively deliver different therapies optimized for each garment's specific design.
2Reliability
If custom control units are created for each garment configuration, then each unit can be precisely tailored to the specific patient and therapy needs, but the manufacturing cost and time increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of manufacturing separate physical control units for each patient and garment configuration, the system uses digital configuration data stored in the docking station as a 'copy' of the garment's electrode arrangement. The universal control unit reads this digital configuration and virtually replicates the customized behavior without requiring physical customization of the control unit itself. This dramatically reduces manufacturing complexity while maintaining individualized therapy capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from static, pre-configured control units to a dynamic system that adapts its behavior based on real-time detection of which garment is connected. The control unit dynamically loads the appropriate configuration data from the docking station and adjusts its operation accordingly, enabling mass-produced universal units to provide customized therapy without requiring custom manufacturing for each patient.
3Ease of operation
If removable stimulation units are used to maintain patient mobility, then patient comfort and mobility are improved, but the connection reliability between the stimulation unit and electrodes may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The docking station serves as an intermediary component that remains permanently attached to the garment, while the stimulation unit can be removed and replaced. The docking station maintains the electrical connections to all electrodes and stores configuration data, acting as a mediator between the removable stimulation unit and the fixed electrode array. This allows the stimulation unit to be easily removed for patient mobility while ensuring reliable reconnection by simply docking the unit back into the station.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a system for electrostimulation of at least one muscle, a muscle group, nerve and/or nerve fiber, the system comprising: a. at least one garment (2) comprising a docking station (6) and a plurality of electrodes (4) and/or sensors, and b. a stimulation unit (10) which can be connected to the docking station (6) in such a way that a mechanical and electronic connection is established between the stimulation unit (10) and the docking station (6), wherein the stimulation unit (10) has an electrical control unit which is set up to read out and use at least one stimulation program from a first electronic data memory, depending on configuration data which it receives via the electronic connection, in order to activate at least one electrode (4) of the garment (2).