Thin Snap Electrode Assembly for Heart Rate Monitoring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for detachably connecting telemetric transmitters to heart rate monitor belts result in bulky snaps that cannot be integrated into garments, causing electrical noise and instability during strenuous activities, and are not suitable for underwater use due to moisture issues.
Innovation Solution
A thin, flush-integrated snap design with a conductive wire spring and guiding stud, allowing for reliable and moisture-resistant electrical connections within garments, reducing snap thickness by 50-70% and maintaining stability during activity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If standard garment snaps are used to detachably connect telemetric transmitter to heart rate monitor belt, then the connection is achieved, but the snap thickness increases by around 4 mm causing bulkiness that cannot be integrated into garments
Solution Approach 1:
The snap is divided into two separate portions: a base portion that remains integrated into the garment and a cap portion that attaches to the telemetric transmitter. This segmentation allows each portion to be minimized in thickness while maintaining overall connection functionality, resolving the contradiction between connection reliability and snap thickness.
Solution Approach 2:
The male stud of the telemetric transmitter is nested within the snap structure, with the stud fitting into a recess in the base portion and the cap portion covering it. This nesting arrangement allows for a compact design where components are housed within each other, minimizing the overall thickness while ensuring secure connection.
2Reliability
If standard garment snaps are used for detachable connection, then the connection is achieved, but electrical noise increases during strenuous activities due to connection instability
Solution Approach 1:
The snap structure incorporates a spring mechanism and conductive elements with specific local properties to ensure stable electrical contact. The spring provides constant contact pressure, while conductive wires are positioned to maintain reliable electrical connection between the telemetric transmitter and the garment, reducing electrical noise during movement.
3Adaptability or versatility
If standard garment snaps are used, then detachable connection is achieved, but moisture resistance is compromised making it unsuitable for underwater use
Solution Approach 1:
A moisture-resistant barrier or sealing mechanism is introduced as an intermediary between the snap components and the external environment. This intermediary element prevents moisture from penetrating into the electrical connection areas, enabling the system to function reliably in underwater conditions while maintaining the detachable connection capability.
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 reliable and stable electrical connections within garments, minimizing electrical noise and accommodating underwater use while maintaining the integrity of the garment and telemetric transmitter.
Implementation Method 1
a conductive wire spring in electrical contact with the electrode and capable of making electrical contact with the male end of a telemetric device
Implementation Method 2
a guiding stud for receiving the male end of a telemetric device
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates generally to an electrode assembly including a thin, low thickness snap for use, for example, in a heart rate monitoring. The electrode assembly can come in the form of a kit with multiple pieces or in an assembled form. The electrode assembly includes two electrodes with respective snaps connected by a non-stretchable material portion. The electrode assembly can be easily integrated into a garment with minimal interference in the usability of the garment itself. Additionally, the present invention relates to a garment having integrated therein an electrode assembly.