Electrotherapy Device Continuous Frequency Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrotherapy devices require stopping and restarting operations to change frequencies, making it time-consuming and labor-intensive to continuously output AC currents of different frequencies.
Innovation Solution
An electrotherapy device with a storage unit, input operation unit, output unit, and controller that allows for continuous output of AC currents of multiple frequencies by switching between pre-defined frequency settings without stopping, using a first and second output circuit for pad electrodes and probes, and controlling output voltage changes at constant rates.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the frequency is changed by stopping the operation, selecting a new frequency, and restarting the electrotherapy device, then the frequency can be changed, but it takes time and labor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-arranging multiple frequencies in a storage unit with code data and course data. The controller automatically extracts and switches between frequencies based on stored course information, eliminating the need for manual frequency selection and device restart. This prepares the frequency sequence in advance, allowing continuous operation without stopping.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements continuity of useful action by enabling the electrotherapy device to output AC currents of multiple frequencies continuously without stopping. The controller automatically transitions between frequencies based on stored course data, maintaining continuous therapeutic action while changing frequencies, thus eliminating idle time between frequency changes.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the output circuit is designed for specific electrode configurations, then the circuit can be optimized for that configuration, but the device cannot meet diverse treatment requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing the output unit with switchable output circuits that can accommodate different electrode configurations (pad electrodes, mat with conductive wiring, or probe with pin electrode). A single device structure can perform multiple treatment types by switching between output circuits, making the device versatile without requiring separate dedicated circuits for each treatment mode.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics by making the output circuit configurable and switchable based on treatment requirements. The switch can dynamically change the connection configuration between output terminals and electrode types, allowing the device to adapt its circuit structure during operation to meet different treatment needs without being fixed to a single configuration.
Data Source
AI summary
An electrotherapy device includes a storage unit that stores code data in which a plurality of output frequencies are aligned in order of output and to which a code number is assigned and course data in which the plurality of code numbers are aligned in order of output and to which a course number is assigned, and a controller that extracts the course data from the storage unit based on the input course number, extracts the pieces of code data based on the extracted course data, and controls an output unit to output AC currents of the output frequencies in order based on the pieces of code data, wherein the output unit includes switches (ST1) to (ST4) configured to switch to any one of a first output circuit that outputs the AC currents to at least either of a pad electrode or a mat (12) in which a conductive wiring (12e) is arranged and a second output circuit that outputs the AC currents to a probe (13) having pin electrodes (13e).