Medical Electrode Sealing Element for Gel Diffusion Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing medical electrodes face issues with the diffusion of electrically conducting gel between the connection piece and the holding element, leading to a loss of connection and reduced functionality over time.
Innovation Solution
A ring-shaped sealing element, preferably a nonwoven impregnated with heat-activatable adhesive, is used to seal the gap between the holding element and the connection piece, preventing gel diffusion and ensuring a stable connection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the electrically conducting gel is placed between the connection piece and the holding element to ensure electrical contact, then the electrical conductivity is improved, but the gel diffuses over time and releases the connection piece from the holding element, reducing reliability
Solution Approach 1:
A sealing element is introduced as an intermediary component between the connection piece and the holding element. This sealing element prevents the electrically conducting gel from diffusing into the gap and releasing the connection, while still allowing the gel to maintain electrical contact between the connection piece and the skin/support structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The sealing element functions as a flexible barrier that contains the gel within the desired space. The sealing element can be a membrane or film structure that allows electrical conduction while preventing the gel from migrating and loosening the adhesive bond.
2Strength
If the connection piece is firmly bonded to the holding element to ensure stable connection, then the mechanical strength is improved, but the gel diffusion still occurs and compromises the connection over time
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing element is installed beforehand to prevent the harmful effect of gel diffusion before it can compromise the adhesive bond. By containing the gel within the sealing element, the adhesive bond between the connection piece and holding element is protected from degradation over time.
3Reliability
If the gap between the holding element and connection piece is left open to accommodate the gel, then the electrical contact is maintained, but the gel diffuses into the gap and releases the connection
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing element is implemented as a thin film or membrane structure that closes the gap between the holding element and connection piece. This thin barrier maintains the simplicity of the overall device structure while effectively preventing gel diffusion into the gap.
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 enhances the durability and mechanical tolerance of medical electrodes by maintaining the electrical connection, making them more reliable for repeated use.
Implementation Method 1
a nonwoven which is impregnated with a heat-activatable adhesive. An example of a heat-activatable adhesive is a hot melt glue which can be activated by raising the temperature
Implementation Method 2
the sealing element is a thermoplastic film which plasticizes on heating so that a seal is produced after the film sets on cooling
Data Source
AI summary
A medical electrode for bonding to the skin of a patient comprises a support which adheres to the skin and a holding element for at least one electrically conducting connection piece, wherein the skin side of the connection piece is covered with an electrically conducting gel, in particular in a sponge, wherein the gap on the skin side between the holding element and the electrically conducting connection piece is closed by a sealing element which is preferably ring-like.