Segmented External Defibrillator Patch and Controller
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wearable defibrillators are cumbersome, uncomfortable, and impractical for extended use due to size, weight, and limitations such as being non-waterproof, leading to poor patient compliance and inadequate protection against life-threatening arrhythmias during temporary increased risk periods.
Innovation Solution
A lightweight, conformable, and waterproof external defibrillator with a battery, capacitor, electrodes, and ECG monitor, designed to be worn on the skin for extended periods, capable of automatic defibrillation and minimal maintenance, with a support system that distributes weight and thickness to enhance comfort and usability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional wearable defibrillators are used, then defibrillation function is provided, but device weight and bulkiness increase causing patient discomfort and poor compliance
Solution Approach 1:
The defibrillator is divided into two separate components: a lightweight adhesive patch containing electrodes and a separate wallet-sized controller. This segmentation allows the patient to wear only the minimal necessary component (the patch) while the bulk of the device remains portable in a wallet, dramatically reducing worn weight from pounds to ounces while maintaining full defibrillation capability through wireless communication between components.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller is designed to function in a different spatial dimension by being placed in the patient's wallet rather than worn on the body. This dimensional relocation separates the heavy processing and power components from the wearable element, allowing the wearable patch to be extremely lightweight while the controller contains all necessary electronics for defibrillation delivery and control.
2Reliability
If traditional wearable defibrillators are used, then defibrillation function is provided, but device bulkiness and obtrusiveness increase limiting daily activities
Solution Approach 1:
By separating the defibrillator into a minimal adhesive patch and a wallet-sized controller, the wearable component becomes so thin and flexible that it can be worn under clothing without detection or restriction of movement. The patch conforms to the body contour and allows full range of motion, while the controller in the wallet does not interfere with daily activities.
Solution Approach 2:
The adhesive patch uses flexible, thin-film construction with flexible printed circuit boards and thin electrode layers that conform to the body's surface. This allows the patch to move with the patient's body without restricting movement or being visible under clothing, enabling normal daily activities including exercise and physical work while maintaining defibrillation protection.
3Reliability
If traditional wearable defibrillators are used, then defibrillation function is provided, but waterproof capability is limited requiring removal during water activities
Solution Approach 1:
The adhesive patch is designed with a waterproof construction that creates a water-tight seal between the electrodes and the patient's skin. This waterproof barrier allows the device to function during water activities such as showering, swimming, or washing hands without requiring removal, maintaining continuous defibrillation protection while adapting to water-based daily activities.
4Duration of action of moving object
If adhesive support is used to attach defibrillator, then device can be worn continuously, but skin irritation or allergic reactions may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The adhesive is applied only to the minimal area necessary to secure the thin patch to the body, rather than covering the entire patch surface. This reduced adhesive contact area minimizes the potential for skin irritation or allergic reactions while still providing secure attachment for continuous wear. The adhesive is positioned strategically to hold the patch without requiring broad skin contact.
Solution Approach 2:
The adhesive patch is designed as a disposable component that is replaced periodically (e.g., weekly or bi-weekly) rather than being reused. This allows the use of adhesive materials that provide strong initial bonding for continuous wear but can be easily removed and replaced, preventing cumulative skin irritation from prolonged adhesive contact while maintaining secure attachment during each wear period.
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
The solution provides effective, non-invasive, and reversible protection against life-threatening arrhythmias, improving patient compliance and identifying temporary versus permanent arrhythmia risk, allowing for seamless integration into daily life without significant bodily harm.
Implementation Method 1
a battery
Implementation Method 2
a capacitor electrically communicable with the battery
Implementation Method 3
at least two electrodes electrically communicable with the capacitor and with the skin of a patient
Data Source
AI summary
An external defibrillator having a battery; a capacitor electrically communicable with the battery; at least two electrodes electrically communicable with the capacitor and with the skin of a patient; a controller configured to charge the capacitor from the battery and to discharge the capacitor through the electrodes; and a support supporting the battery, capacitor, electrodes and controller in a deployment configuration, the defibrillator having a maximum weight per unit area in the deployment configuration of 0.1 lb/in2 and/or a maximum thickness of 1 inch. The support may be a waterproof housing.