Modular Bio-Signal Device Using Magnetic Electrode Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electronic devices for measuring bio-signals, such as electrocardiograms, face issues with malfunction and incorrect data collection due to foreign matter or moisture infiltration and degraded attachment performance when used in daily life, leading to incorrect electrode pad attachment and data collection failures.
Innovation Solution
The device incorporates a pad module with first electrodes and a main module featuring second electrodes and magnetic bodies that create a magnetic attraction force to ensure secure contact, with the second housing engaging with the first housing peripherally to maintain electrical contact and prevent misalignment, and includes a packing member and protrusions to enhance waterproofing and attachment stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the electrode pad and Holter monitor are connected through a connecting wire for ambulatory ECG measurement, then the device can measure bio-signals during daily activities, but foreign matter or moisture may infiltrate into the electrode pad and Holter monitor causing malfunction or incorrect data collection
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into separate modular components (electrode pad module and Holter monitor) that can be independently replaced. The electrode pad is designed as a detachable component that can be removed and reattached, allowing the sensitive recording portion to be protected from moisture while maintaining ambulatory measurement capability.
Solution Approach 2:
A connector interface serves as an intermediary between the electrode pad and Holter monitor, providing both electrical connection and mechanical coupling. This connector includes sealing structures that prevent moisture infiltration while allowing signal transmission, resolving the contradiction between wireless freedom and protection from environmental factors.
2Ease of operation
If the electrode pad is removed and re-attached according to necessity or situation, then the user can maintain hygiene or adjust positioning, but attachment performance of the electrode pad may be degraded leading to incorrect attachment and data collection failure
Solution Approach 1:
The electrode pad is pre-assembled with the electrode array in a fixed configuration before being attached to the user. This preliminary assembly ensures proper electrode positioning and maintains attachment performance even after removal and reattachment, as the rigid housing prevents deformation of the electrode array.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrode pad incorporates a flexible adhesive layer that maintains good contact with the skin after multiple attachment cycles. This flexible film allows the pad to conform to body contours while maintaining electrical contact, resolving the contradiction between ease of reattachment and reliable attachment performance.
3Measurement precision
If the electrode pad is made rigid to maintain electrode position, then measurement accuracy can be improved, but attachment comfort and adaptability to body contours may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The electrode pad structure is segmented into a rigid housing containing the electrode array and a flexible adhesive interface layer. This segmentation allows the electrode array to maintain its precise geometric configuration for accurate measurement while the flexible interface adapts to body contours for comfortable attachment.
Solution Approach 2:
A flexible adhesive film serves as the interface between the rigid electrode housing and the user's body. This thin flexible film allows the rigid electrode array to maintain its shape and positioning accuracy while conforming to curved body surfaces, resolving the contradiction between measurement precision and attachment comfort.
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
This design enhances the waterproofing and attachment stability of the device, preventing malfunctions and ensuring accurate bio-signal data collection by maintaining secure electrode contact and preventing foreign matter infiltration, thus improving the reliability of bio-signal measurement.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of magnetic bodies disposed in the second housing to correspond to positions of the plurality of second electrodes, in which the plurality of magnetic bodies allow the plurality of first electrodes and the plurality of second electrodes to be brought into contact with each other by a magnetic force
Data Source
AI summary
The electronic device includes a pad module and a main module. At least part of the patch module is attached to a user to obtain a bio-signal of the user. The pad module includes a first housing and a plurality of first electrodes disposed in the first housing. The main module is configured to record the bio-signal of the user that is transferred through the pad module. The main module includes a second housing that is coupled with the first housing in a first direction. The main module also includes a plurality of second electrodes disposed in the second housing. The plurality of second electrodes are configured to make electrical contact with the plurality of first electrodes. The main module further includes a plurality of magnetic bodies disposed in the second housing to correspond to positions of the plurality of second electrodes.