Flexible Winged TENS Electrode for Joint Movement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional TENS systems face limitations in comfort and conductivity due to rigid electrodes, which restrict movement and can cause irritation, especially at high-movement anatomical surfaces like joints, and suffer from electrical degradation over time.
Innovation Solution
The development of functional anatomical shaped multilayer electrodes with a flexible winged configuration and laser-printed conductive silver paint, along with a mobile application for remote control and pain tracking, addresses these issues by enabling bio-movement and maintaining electrical contact while preventing degradation through ion balancing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional rigid electrodes are used, then electrical contact is maintained, but movement is restricted and irritation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electrode is constructed with a flexible substrate that can bend and deform to accommodate joint movements and anatomical contours, allowing the electrode to maintain electrical contact while moving with the body rather than resisting movement
Solution Approach 2:
The electrode transitions from a static rigid structure to a dynamic flexible structure that can adapt its shape and position in real-time during movement, maintaining optimal contact with the skin while accommodating range of motion
2Ease of operation
If flexible electrodes are used, then movement is enabled, but electrical conductivity may decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The electrode uses a composite structure combining a flexible substrate material with a conductive material layer, where the flexible substrate provides movement capability and the conductive layer maintains electrical conductivity for effective TENS signal delivery
Solution Approach 2:
The electrode features localized conductive elements or patterns on the flexible substrate, concentrating conductivity where needed for effective stimulation while allowing other areas to remain flexible and conformable to the body
3Adaptability or versatility
If electrodes are attached to high movement areas, then treatment coverage is improved, but degradation increases over time
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible electrode construction reduces mechanical stress and degradation from repeated stretching and bending in high-movement areas, allowing the electrode to withstand dynamic conditions without losing adhesion or conductivity over time
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 solution provides improved comfort and conductivity during movement, maintains effective electrical contact, and allows for remote monitoring and feedback on pain reduction, enhancing the efficacy of TENS treatments.
Implementation Method 1
laser printed conductive silver paint as a conductive surface
Data Source
AI summary
A TENS system is provided having an electrode element design accommodating improved motion mechanics and maneuverability while maintaining electrical contact. An electrode having a soft wing construction is provided such that a multi-planar flexibility is provided during operation. A range of motion hinge provides and positions at a central area of a winged configuration a housing such that both a rotational movement and an angular movement may occur while maintaining continuous, direct contact with the TENS electronics within the housing. A selected die-cut pattern of a number of designs may form a stepped-in wing configuration may further contribute to a lateral flexibility of the wings.