Movable Microelectrode Patch for Adaptive Transcranial Stimulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing transcranial electrical stimulation technologies face challenges in accuracy and convenience, particularly for non-medical professionals and in accommodating varying head shapes, as they require precise electrode placement and frequent setup adjustments.
Innovation Solution
An electrical stimulation apparatus featuring a frame with a processor-controlled electrode module, comprising multiple microelectrodes covered by a single patch, which adjusts stimulation location and density while worn on the user, allowing for precise and convenient application of transcranial electrical stimulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If a standardized electrical stimulation apparatus is used, then preparation time is reduced and convenience is increased, but accuracy of electrical stimulation is compromised due to different head shapes
Solution Approach 1:
The electrode module is designed to be movable relative to the frame, allowing dynamic adjustment of electrode positions. The processor controls the electrode module to move to different locations on the user's head, enabling the system to adapt to individual head shapes while maintaining accuracy. This dynamic positioning resolves the contradiction by allowing a standardized apparatus to achieve personalized precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the positional parameters of the electrodes dynamically. The processor adjusts the location and density of active electrodes based on the user's head shape and target stimulation area. This parameter adjustment allows the standardized apparatus to accommodate varying head geometries while maintaining stimulation accuracy.
2Ease of operation
If electrodes are positioned in advance on the electrical stimulation apparatus, then the method reduces preparation time, but electrical stimulation can only be performed when the examinee wears the apparatus
Solution Approach 1:
The electrode module's ability to move dynamically allows the system to be adjusted and activated at the moment of need. The pre-positioned electrodes remain inactive until the user wears the apparatus, at which point the processor activates the appropriate electrodes based on real-time positioning, providing both convenience and operational flexibility.
3Measurement precision
If a doctor directly attaches an electrode to a location where electrical stimulation is required, then accuracy of electrical stimulation is improved, but the method becomes troublesome for medical professionals due to frequent setup adjustments
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-positioning and self-adjustment through the processor-controlled movable electrode module. The apparatus automatically determines the correct electrode placement and activates the appropriate electrodes without requiring the medical professional to manually adjust each electrode. This automation maintains high accuracy while significantly reducing the operational burden on medical professionals.
Solution Approach 2:
The manual mechanical adjustment of electrodes by medical professionals is replaced with an automated electronic control system. The processor controls the movement and activation of electrodes based on pre-programmed protocols and real-time positioning, substituting manual mechanical operations with automated electronic control to improve ease of operation while maintaining precision.
Data Source
AI summary
An electrical stimulation apparatus is provided. The electrical stimulation apparatus includes a frame worn on a user, an electrode module including a plurality of microelectrodes covered by a single patch, one surface of the electrode module is connected to the frame and the other surface faces the user while being covered by the single patch, and a processor controlling an operation of the electrode module such that a target effect is capable of being provided to the user through electrical stimulation in a state where the frame is worn on the user.