Flexible Neural Sleeve Electrode Array for Selective Muscle Stimulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current transcutaneous neuromuscular stimulation electrodes are large and lack the ability to selectively stimulate small muscle segments for fine wrist and finger control, limiting the restoration of complex muscular movements.
Innovation Solution
A flexible neuromuscular stimulation cuff with multiple small electrodes and a design that includes a flexible printed circuit board with electrodes and hydrogel discs, allowing for programmable spatial stimulation patterns and enhanced electrical contact, conforming to different arm profiles and accommodating complex movements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If transcutaneous neuromuscular stimulation electrodes are made large, then they can provide sufficient electrical contact area, but they cannot selectively stimulate small muscle segments for fine wrist and finger control
Solution Approach 1:
The electrode array is divided into multiple independent electrodes (e.g., 8x8 grid with 64 electrodes) instead of a single large electrode. Each electrode can be independently controlled to stimulate specific muscle segments, enabling fine-grained spatial selectivity while maintaining adequate contact area through the cumulative surface of all electrodes
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the electrode array can be activated with different parameters (current amplitude, pulse width, frequency) to create localized stimulation patterns. This allows precise targeting of specific muscle groups or segments by applying appropriate electrical parameters to specific electrode locations while leaving other areas inactive
2Manufacturing precision
If multiple small electrodes are used for selective stimulation, then fine muscle control is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electrode array serves multiple functions: it can stimulate different muscle groups simultaneously or sequentially, record EMG signals from multiple locations, and be reconfigured through software to address various clinical conditions. This multi-functionality justifies the increased physical complexity by providing versatile therapeutic capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The system controls complexity by dynamically adjusting electrical parameters (current amplitude, pulse duration, frequency, duty cycle) for different electrode combinations rather than requiring physical reconfiguration. Software-controlled parameter changes enable flexible stimulation patterns without increasing hardware complexity
3Adaptability or versatility
If flexible cuff design is used to accommodate different arm profiles, then adaptability is improved, but manufacturing precision may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The cuff incorporates flexible materials and adjustable components that allow it to dynamically adapt to different arm circumferences and profiles. The flexible substrate enables the electrode array to conform to the curved surface of the arm while maintaining relative positioning between electrodes, reconciling adaptability with positioning precision
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 precise neuromuscular stimulation and muscle movement reanimation by selectively stimulating individual muscles or muscle groups, enhancing the ability to perform complex movements such as finger flexing and extension.
Implementation Method 1
an array of electrogel discs which provide enhanced electrical contact
Data Source
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AI summary
The present disclosure relates to neuromuscular stimulation and sensing cuffs. The neuromuscular stimulation cuff has at least two fingers and a plurality of electrodes disposed on each finger. More generally, the neuromuscular stimulation cuff includes an outer, reusable component and an inner, disposable component. One or more electrodes are housed within the reusable component. The neuromuscular stimulation cuff may be produced by providing an insulating substrate layer, forming a conductive circuit on the substrate layer to form a conductive circuit layer, adhering a cover layer onto the conductive circuit layer to form a flexible circuit, and cutting at least one flexible finger from the flexible circuit. The neuromuscular stimulation cuff employs a flexible multi-electrode design which allows for reanimation of complex muscle movements in a patient, including individual finger movement.