Segmented Wearable Stimulators for Neuromuscular Coordination
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for guiding movement, such as those for individuals with Parkinson's disease or stroke survivors, are limited by the lack of precise and coordinated stimulation between the central and peripheral nervous systems, often relying on large and imprecisely positioned vibrational motors that fail to optimally transfer information and guide movement effectively.
Innovation Solution
A stimulation device comprising multiple body-fixed stimulators and sensors that provide coordinated stimuli to optimize the transfer of information between the central and peripheral nervous systems, using a network of stimulators and sensors integrated into wearable garments like smart socks and gloves to guide movement by adjusting stimulation based on real-time movement data.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If large vibrational motors are used to provide rhythmic stimulation, then the stimulation can be felt strongly, but the positioning precision and coordination between central and peripheral nervous systems deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the single large vibrational motor into multiple smaller stimulators distributed at different locations on the body. This segmentation allows each stimulator to be precisely positioned at specific anatomical sites while collectively providing sufficient stimulation intensity, thereby resolving the contradiction between strong stimulation and precise positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a single-point stimulation approach to a multi-dimensional distributed stimulation network. By placing multiple stimulators at different spatial locations and coordinating their activation timing, the system achieves both adequate stimulation intensity and precise spatial control, addressing the positioning precision issue while maintaining effective force delivery.
2Device complexity
If a single vibrating motor is used at the wrist, then the device complexity is reduced, but the effectiveness in guiding movement and coordinating nervous systems deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the stimulation function across multiple body locations rather than relying on a single wrist-mounted motor. This segmentation enables more effective coordination between central and peripheral nervous systems by stimulating relevant muscle groups and sensory receptors at their actual anatomical positions, thereby improving movement guidance effectiveness despite increased device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies stimulation locally at specific body sites where it is most needed for movement guidance, rather than using a single remote location. Each stimulator is positioned to affect specific muscles or sensory pathways, creating locally optimized stimulation quality that enhances overall movement guidance reliability.
3Strength
If continuous vibration is applied to build muscle mass, then muscle strength is improved, but the ability to guide specific target movements with precise timing deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic, rhythmically timed vibration pulses rather than continuous vibration. The stimulators are activated in coordinated sequences that match the timing requirements of specific target movements, providing both the mechanical stimulus needed for muscle strengthening and the precise temporal control necessary for guiding specific movements with accurate timing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the vibration pattern dynamic and adaptive, adjusting the timing, frequency, and duration of stimulation based on the specific movement being performed. This dynamic approach allows the system to provide sufficient stimulus for muscle building while precisely controlling the timing to guide specific target movements, overcoming the limitation of static continuous vibration.
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 device enhances neuromuscular coordination and reduces unwanted movement variability by providing precise, coordinated stimuli, improving the ability to achieve target movements with reduced cognitive load and long-term benefits in mobility and physical activity.
Implementation Method 1
Vibrating motors have been used in several research papers in people with Parkinson's disease. However, the vibrating motors are generally very large and are not precisely positioned or coordinated to optimise transfer of information between the central nervous system and peripheral nervous system of the body.
Data Source
AI summary
A stimulation device for guiding movement of at least part of a body, the device comprising: at least one body-fixed stimulator, configured to provide stimulus to the part of the body; at least one control unit in communication with the at least one body-fixed stimulator, the control unit configured to generate a control signal to control the at least one body-fixed stimulator. Embodiments of the device or system may be configured perform a method of guiding movement of at least part of a body comprising the steps of: comparing at least one parameter relating to a movement with at least one pre-defined criteria; generating a control signal from at least one control unit if the at least one parameter does not meet the pre-defined criteria; and providing a stimulus to the body in response to the control signal through at least one body-fixed stimulator to guide the movement.