Hydrogel Pad Membrane Structure for Stable Skin Conductivity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Hydrogel used in electrodes for measuring vital signs can be compromised by exposure to air or excessive moisture, affecting its conductivity and the accuracy of measurements.
Innovation Solution
A hydrogel pad protected by a flexible support and a protective membrane with perforations that allow conductive contacts to pierce through, maintaining hydrogel integrity and conductivity, while a removable backing prevents exposure to moisture until application.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the hydrogel is exposed to air, then the device can be removed and stored, but the hydrogel dries out and loses conductivity
Solution Approach 1:
A flexible support structure with a protective membrane is used to cover and protect the hydrogel from air exposure. The membrane acts as a barrier that prevents drying while allowing the device to be removed and stored without compromising hydrogel integrity or conductivity.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the hydrogel is exposed to moisture, then the environment is controlled, but the hydrogel becomes oversaturated and loses conductivity
Solution Approach 1:
The protective membrane and flexible support structure create a sealed environment that isolates the hydrogel from external moisture while maintaining controlled internal conditions. This prevents oversaturation and preserves conductivity.
3Reliability
If a protective membrane is added to cover the hydrogel, then the hydrogel is protected from air and moisture, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
A thin flexible membrane is used to protect the hydrogel, minimizing added complexity while providing effective protection. The membrane is integrated with the flexible support structure, creating a simple yet effective protective system that maintains hydrogel integrity without significantly increasing device complexity.
4Reliability
If the conductive contact pierces the membrane, then electrical connection is established, but the membrane integrity is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
Perforations are pre-formed in the protective membrane at predetermined locations that align with the conductive contacts. This preliminary action allows the contacts to pierce through at designated points without compromising the overall membrane integrity or creating unintended openings that would expose the hydrogel to environmental factors.
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
Ensures consistent conductivity and accurate vital sign measurements by preserving hydrogel moisture balance and allowing temporary device removal without disturbing the pad's placement.
Implementation Method 1
a protective membrane covering the second surface of the hydrogel portion and adhered to the second surface of the flexible support
Implementation Method 2
the first conductive contact is configured to pierce the perforation in the thin protective membrane over the first hydrogel portion and contact the first hydrogel portion
Implementation Method 3
Electrodes are typically coupled to a hydrogel that provides an electrically conductive path between the device and the wearer's skin
Implementation Method 4
a protective membrane covering the second surface of the first hydrogel portion and affixed to the second surface of the flexible support
Data Source
AI summary
A hydrogel pad is configured for use with an electrode or a wearable device to measure vital signs of a patient. The hydrogel pad includes a flexible support having one or more openings in which hydrogel is disposed. A membrane covers one side of the hydrogel to protect it from gaining or losing too much moisture. A removable backing covers the other side of the hydrogel until it is applied to a patient, at which point the other side contacts the patient's skin. The protective membrane can be pierced by an angular conductive contact of a device to contact the hydrogel creating an electric conduit between the patient and the device. When the device is removed, the membrane at least partially closes to cover and protect the hydrogel.