Neuromuscular Stimulator Programming System for Movement Configuration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical stimulators for neuromuscular stimulation require extensive knowledge and time-consuming configuration procedures, leading to repetitive and fatiguing processes for users, especially when attempting to achieve complex movements, due to the need for manual adjustment of numerous stimulation parameters.
Innovation Solution
An electrical stimulator with a programming system that allows users to configure stimulation sequences using a subset of pre-defined parameters, enabling synchronization of chronological phases and immediate feedback, reducing the number of operations and parameters needed, and allowing users to test movements during configuration without prior knowledge of neuromuscular stimulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If manual configuration of stimulation parameters is used, then customization capability is improved, but configuration time and complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system pre-configures multiple complete stimulation programs with all parameters (waveform, amplitude, pulse width, frequency, cycle parameters) already optimized for specific rehabilitation goals. Users simply select from these pre-defined programs rather than configuring parameters manually, eliminating time-consuming configuration while maintaining customization through program selection.
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically adjusts stimulation parameters based on selected program type and user feedback. Instead of requiring users to manually set each parameter, the system changes parameters automatically according to pre-established protocols and real-time muscle response detection, reducing configuration time while maintaining adaptability.
2Reliability
If extensive parameter exploration is performed, then optimal stimulation is achieved, but user fatigue and demotivation increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-testing and self-adjustment by automatically detecting muscle responses and optimizing parameters without requiring repetitive manual testing by the user. The microprocessor controls automatic parameter adjustment based on detected muscle activation, eliminating the need for users to repeatedly test different parameters and reducing fatigue while ensuring optimal stimulation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates real-time feedback mechanisms where muscle response is detected and used to automatically adjust stimulation parameters. This closed-loop feedback eliminates the need for extensive manual parameter exploration by the user, as the system autonomously optimizes parameters based on actual muscle response, reducing user fatigue while achieving optimal stimulation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple stimulation channels are synchronized, then complex movements are enabled, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses a single microprocessor to control all stimulation channels and synchronize multiple impulse generators. This universal controller handles waveform generation, parameter adjustment, and channel synchronization, enabling complex multi-channel coordinated stimulation for complex movements without proportionally increasing overall system complexity through shared control architecture.
4Measurement precision
If precise parameter control is implemented, then stimulation accuracy is improved, but configuration difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces manual mechanical configuration with automated microprocessor control for precise parameter setting. The microprocessor digitally controls waveform parameters, amplitude, pulse width, and frequency with high precision, eliminating the need for manual adjustment mechanisms while maintaining stimulation accuracy and reducing configuration difficulty through automated control.
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 solution significantly reduces the complexity and time required to configure stimulation sequences, enabling users to efficiently produce complex movements with minimal iterative procedures, allowing for rapid adaptation and minimizing the risk of harm by enabling continuous parameter modification.
Implementation Method 1
electrical stimulators assisting a user in a performance of a determined body movement by neuromuscular stimulation
Data Source
AI summary
The invention concerns an arrangement comprising an electrical stimulator (1), a programming system (25) for assisting a user in programming it for performing a determined body movement by neuromuscular stimulation; and an input device (24) operable by the user. The programming system is configured to: decompose the neuromuscular movement into distinct actions (31), select one of them, and configuring the electrical stimulator with the electrical stimulation parameters associated with the selected action. The programming system is further configured to select one electrical stimulation parameter among the electrical stimulation parameters associated with the selected distinct action, and, in a cycle performed while the electrical stimulator is connected to the user's body: to receive a value of the selected electrical stimulation parameter through the input device (24); and to configure the electrical stimulator (1) with the received value of the selected electrical stimulation parameter.