Portable EMS System with Wicking Pad for Pressure Injury Prevention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electrical muscle stimulation (EMS) devices are large, unwieldy, and complex, limiting their mainstream adoption due to lack of portability and integration with modern consumer technology, and they do not effectively address pressure injuries.
Innovation Solution
A portable EMS system with integrated electrodes and sensing devices, a controller, and a wicking pad that secures the electrodes and sensing devices to the user, allowing for wireless communication and adaptive stimulation based on detected physiological characteristics, including pressure and moisture levels, to prevent pressure injuries.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional EMS devices are used, then muscle stimulation function is achieved, but device portability and ease of use deteriorate due to large size and complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The EMS device is segmented into modular components: a controller unit, electrode array, and sensor system. This allows the device to be divided into smaller, more portable sections while maintaining full functionality. The electrode array can be separated from the main controller, enabling flexible positioning and reduced bulk.
Solution Approach 2:
The device integrates multiple functions into a single system: muscle stimulation, pressure sensing, moisture detection, and wireless communication. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate devices, reducing overall complexity and improving portability while maintaining comprehensive therapeutic capability.
2Reliability
If traditional EMS devices are used, then muscle stimulation is provided, but integration with modern consumer technology deteriorates due to lack of connectivity
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates sensors that provide real-time feedback on pressure distribution, moisture levels, and muscle response. This feedback is transmitted wirelessly to mobile devices, allowing users and therapists to monitor and adjust treatment parameters remotely, integrating seamlessly with modern consumer technology ecosystems.
Solution Approach 2:
Traditional mechanical controls (buttons, knobs, wired connections) are replaced with wireless communication technologies and touch-based interfaces. The device uses wireless protocols to communicate with smartphones and tablets, eliminating complex wiring and improving ease of use while maintaining therapeutic effectiveness.
3Reliability
If electrodes are secured to the user, then stimulation contact is improved, but moisture accumulation worsens causing discomfort and potential skin issues
Solution Approach 1:
The electrode pad incorporates porous, breathable materials that allow moisture vapor to escape while maintaining electrical contact. This porous structure enables the pad to wick away sweat and moisture from the skin surface, preventing maceration and discomfort while preserving stable electrode-skin contact for effective stimulation.
Solution Approach 2:
A specialized interface layer is introduced between the electrode and skin that acts as a mediator. This layer manages moisture transport, allowing perspiration to pass through while maintaining adequate electrical conductivity for stimulation. The intermediary layer protects the skin from excessive moisture accumulation while ensuring reliable electrode contact.
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 effectively prevents pressure injuries by providing targeted and adaptive electrical muscle stimulation, improving user comfort and convenience through portability and integration with modern technology.
Implementation Method 1
the wicking pad is configured transfer moisture from the interior surface of the wicking pad that is in contact with the user to an exterior surface of the wicking pad, thereby drawing moisture away from the user
Implementation Method 2
at least one electrode configured to transmit an electrical current
Implementation Method 3
determine a presence of injured tissue at the target site in response to the at least one sensing device detecting a reflected signal
Data Source
AI summary
An electrical muscle stimulation system that includes at least one electrode configured to transmit an electrical current, at least one sensing device configured to detect a physiological characteristic of a user, and at least one controller in communication with the at least one electrode and the at least one sensing device. The at least one controller is configured to activate the at least one electrode in response to the at least one sensing device detecting the physiological characteristic of the user.