Embedded FES Stimulator for Exoskeleton Mobility Assistance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing FES systems combined with exoskeleton devices are inconvenient, require external stimulators and tethers, and face issues with mobility, electrode comfort, and infection risk due to the use of surface electrodes.
Innovation Solution
Integration of a ten-channel FES stimulator directly into an exoskeleton device, eliminating the need for an external stimulator and data tether, and using either wired or wireless configurations to provide electrical stimulation directly to the user's muscles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If FES system is combined with exoskeleton device using external stimulator and data tether, then FES therapy can be provided, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate due to multiple external components and tethers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the FES stimulator, control electronics, and power supply into a single integrated unit that is structurally incorporated into the exoskeleton device. This merging eliminates the need for separate external stimulators and data tethers, reducing system complexity while maintaining FES therapy functionality. The integrated design allows the exoskeleton to provide both mobility assistance and FES treatment through a unified system.
2Ease of operation
If surface electrodes are used for FES stimulation, then ease of application is improved, but reliability and comfort deteriorate due to electrode disconnection, damage, and infection risk
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the problematic electrode leads and connectors from the system by using wireless communication technology. The FES stimulator communicates with external control devices wirelessly, eliminating physical electrode leads that can become tangled, disconnected, or damaged. This extraction of the lead system maintains ease of electrode application while significantly improving connection reliability and reducing infection risks associated with wire connections.
3Adaptability or versatility
If external FES stimulator box is used, then FES stimulation can be delivered, but ease of operation worsens due to requirement for helper person to carry and manage the device
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a multi-functional integrated unit where the exoskeleton device simultaneously provides mobility assistance through its mechanical structure and FES therapy through embedded stimulators. This universal design eliminates the need for separate external stimulator boxes that require helper persons for management. The single integrated system can be independently operated by the user, combining multiple functions into one self-sufficient device.
4Reliability
If transcutaneous electrodes are inserted into muscle through skin, then FES performance is improved, but object-generated harmful factors worsen due to comfort issues and infection likelihood
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical insertion method of transcutaneous electrodes with a wireless electromagnetic field-based stimulation system. Instead of physically inserting electrodes through the skin, the system uses wireless signals to deliver FES stimulation, maintaining stimulation effectiveness while eliminating the infection risks and comfort issues associated with invasive electrode insertion and wire routing through the body.
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
This integration provides a more convenient and mobile FES system that can be used for mobility assistance, reducing user fatigue and enhancing gait performance by balancing user effort with device assistance.
Implementation Method 1
Regular application of functional electrical stimulation (FES) to the lower limbs has been shown to help reduce many of these symptoms. Traditional FES systems achieve stimulation of the user's muscles via application of a stimulating current to surface electrodes applied to the user's skin.
Data Source
AI summary
An integrated functional electrical stimulation (FES) system includes a component of a mobility assistance device, and an FES system mounted within the component. The FES system includes an FES stimulator that is embedded within the component, and a plurality of FES jacks that are electrically connected to the FES stimulator and are located on the component. The FES jacks are configured to receive a plurality of FES electrodes, and an electrical stimulation output from the FES stimulator is conducted through the FES jacks to the FES electrodes. In a wireless embodiment, the FES stimulator is configured to wirelessly transmit a control signal for applying an electrical stimulation output to the plurality of FES electrodes, and the FES jacks are eliminated. The FES stimulator may be embedded within a back portion of the hip component of an exoskeleton device, and in the wired embodiment the FES jacks are located on wing portions of the hip component.