Segmented Electrical Stimulation Patch with Real-Time Current Monitoring
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional electrical stimulation devices for brain stimulation lack the ability to monitor and control voltage or current levels, risking burns to the user if higher-than-set levels are applied, as they fail to account for variations in electrical stimulation.
Innovation Solution
The device divides a patch layer into multiple segments, incorporating a monitoring unit to measure and control voltage or current across each segment, preventing excessive stimulation by blocking or adjusting current as needed to ensure safe operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional electrical stimulation device applies voltage or current for brain stimulation, then cognitive abilities may be improved, but burns may occur on user skin due to unexpected high voltage or current
Solution Approach 1:
The patch layer is divided into multiple segments, each with its own monitoring capability. This segmentation allows independent monitoring of voltage or current in different regions, enabling precise control and prevention of localized overheating that could cause burns.
Solution Approach 2:
A monitoring unit is implemented to continuously monitor voltage or current supplied to each patch segment. When abnormal high voltage or current is detected, the system provides feedback to adjust or stop stimulation, preventing burns while maintaining effective brain stimulation.
2Power
If voltage or current is increased for effective brain stimulation, then cognitive improvement may be achieved, but the risk of burns increases due to lack of monitoring
Solution Approach 1:
The monitoring unit continuously measures voltage or current levels and provides real-time feedback. When power exceeds safe thresholds, the system automatically adjusts or terminates stimulation, allowing high power delivery when safe while preventing burns through continuous oversight.
Solution Approach 2:
The system establishes safe operating parameters and monitoring mechanisms before delivering electrical stimulation. By pre-configuring safety thresholds and monitoring capabilities, the device can deliver effective high-power stimulation while preventing burns through proactive safety measures.
3Device complexity
If a single patch layer is used for electrical stimulation, then device simplicity is maintained, but precise control of stimulation regions is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The single patch layer is segmented into multiple controllable regions. Each segment can be independently monitored and controlled, enabling precise spatial control of stimulation while maintaining the simplicity of a single-layer structure.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the patch layer can be selectively activated or monitored based on local requirements. This allows customized stimulation patterns across different areas of the patch while maintaining overall structural simplicity.
Data Source
AI summary
An electrical stimulation device is provided. According to one embodiment of the present invention, the electrical stimulation device for applying an electrical stimulation to the skin of a user comprises: a patch layer, which is a single patch layer and makes contact with the skin of the user when the electrical stimulation device is worn by or attached to the user; and a plurality of patch segments formed to be spaced apart from each other on the patch layer and transmitting current to the patch layer.