Multi-Electrode Prosthetic Liner for Myoelectric Signal Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional prosthetic devices are limited to articulating only one or two movements due to the limited information recorded from two surface electromyography (EMG) electrodes, restricting the sophistication of movements that can be executed by prosthetic limbs.
Innovation Solution
An electrode assembly with multiple electrodes, such as eight electrodes, is used to extract myoelectric signals, which are processed by a signal processing unit to provide more detailed information about user intentions, allowing for more complex movements by a prosthetic device like a hand, using various configurations including cup-shaped and band-like designs for secure fit and flexible materials like silicones and thermoplastic elastomers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If two surface EMG electrodes are used, then the device complexity is low, but the measurement precision and information quality are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The electrode assembly is segmented into multiple individual electrodes (e.g., eight electrodes) distributed across the prosthetic liner, allowing each electrode to detect myoelectric signals from different muscle locations. This segmentation enables more precise and comprehensive muscle signal detection compared to using only two electrodes, while the modular arrangement keeps the overall structure manageable.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a limited two-electrode configuration to a multi-electrode array distributed across two-dimensional surface of the prosthetic liner. This dimensional expansion allows electrodes to be positioned at multiple locations simultaneously, capturing spatial variations in muscle signals and providing richer information about user intention.
2Loss of information
If multiple electrodes are used, then the information quality about user intention improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple electrodes are merged into a single integrated prosthetic liner assembly, combining the functions of electrode detection, signal collection, and user interface into one unified device. This merging approach captures comprehensive myoelectric information from multiple muscle sites while presenting a simple, wearability-friendly form factor to the user.
Solution Approach 2:
The multi-electrode assembly serves multiple functions simultaneously: detecting myoelectric signals from different muscles, determining user intention, and controlling prosthetic movements. This multi-functionality reduces information loss by capturing diverse muscle signals that collectively provide complete control information.
3Measurement precision
If electrodes are placed over muscle bellies, then the signal detection is effective, but the positioning precision and customization are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The electrode assembly is designed to be adaptable and reconfigurable, allowing electrode positions to be adjusted or customized based on individual user anatomy and specific control requirements. This dynamic placement capability enables precise targeting of muscle bellies while accommodating variations in residual limb morphology across different users.
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
Enables more accurate control over prosthetic devices by gathering additional muscle information, allowing for a wider range of movements and improved fit through customizable electrode placement and signal processing, enhancing the functionality of prosthetic limbs.
Implementation Method 1
Muscles may generate electrical impulses known as myoelectric signals. Such myoelectric signals may be detected and amplified. An electrode interface may be used to extract myoelectric signals
Data Source
AI summary
An assembly may include a plurality of electrode contacts adapted to receive myoelectric signals from a body when placed into contact with the body. The assembly may also include a support structure adapted to support the electrode contacts. The assembly may also include a prosthetic liner, the support structure being embedded in the prosthetic liner. The electrode contacts may be positioned to be extending through openings in the prosthetic liner. The assembly may also include signal processing circuitry adapted to process the myoelectric signals from the body. Other embodiments are described and claimed.