Implantable EMG Sensor Wireless Power and Signal Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current upper-limb prostheses face challenges in providing intuitive and reliable control due to variability in electromyogram (EMG) signals, which are affected by skin conditions and electrode movement, leading to poor spatial and temporal resolution and discomfort for users.
Innovation Solution
Implantable EMG sensors with two spaced electrodes and a radio frequency antenna for stable signal detection and transmission, using low-power circuit topology and wireless power reception to provide consistent and independent EMG channels, reducing the need for tight socket fits and improving prosthetic control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If surface EMG electrodes are used for prosthetic control, then the system can detect muscle activity, but the signal reliability deteriorates due to skin conditions and electrode movement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces surface mechanical electrodes with implantable electrodes that directly contact muscle tissue, eliminating the interface problems between electrodes and skin. This substitution of the measurement interface resolves the reliability issues caused by skin conditions and electrode movement while maintaining EMG signal detection capability.
2Measurement precision
If surface EMG electrodes are used, then the system can operate without surgery, but the measurement precision deteriorates due to poor spatial and temporal resolution
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces surface electrodes with implantable electrodes that directly contact muscle tissue, providing superior spatial and temporal resolution for EMG signal measurement. This improvement in measurement precision comes with the trade-off of requiring surgical implantation.
3Ease of operation
If surface EMG electrodes are used, then the system can be easily applied, but the device complexity increases due to the need for tight socket fits
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces surface electrodes requiring tight socket fits with implantable electrodes that are surgically placed directly on muscle tissue. This eliminates the need for complex socket fitting systems while providing stable, long-term signal acquisition.
4Stability of the object's composition
If implantable EMG sensors are used, then the signal stability improves, but the device complexity increases due to implantation surgery
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces surface electrodes with implantable electrodes that provide stable, long-term EMG signal acquisition by directly contacting muscle tissue. The one-time surgical implantation provides durable signal stability that outweighs the initial procedural complexity.
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 implantable EMG system enhances the reliability and robustness of prosthetic control, allowing for more intuitive and comfortable operation of multifunctional prosthetic devices by providing consistent EMG signals and reducing the constraints of surface electrodes, thereby improving the quality of life for upper-limb amputees.
Implementation Method 1
configured to receive electromagnetic energy in the gigahertz range
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatus and methods for the measurement and transmission of data pertaining to the tissue of an animal. In one embodiment, there is an implantable device that is wirelessly powered and also wirelessly transmits data. Preferably, the implant measures neuromuscular activity.