Wearable Neuromodulator Electrode Layout for Wire-Free Stimulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing neuromodulation systems lack miniaturized, comfortable, and easy-to-use transdermal electric stimulation devices that are free from cumbersome electrical wires, with complex intensity adjustment mechanisms hindering user adoption.
Innovation Solution
Development of lightweight, flexible, and self-contained wearable neuromodulators with automatic operation, no user controls, and a limited number of uses, featuring a thin profile, adhesive hydrogel electrodes, and a predetermined waveform delivery system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If existing neuromodulation systems use traditional designs with electrical wires and control mechanisms, then they can deliver therapeutic effects, but they become cumbersome and difficult to use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the electrical wire connection from the system by integrating the power source and control circuitry directly into the wearable device. The control circuitry is extracted from external equipment and embedded within the neuromodulator itself, eliminating the need for external power sources and complex wiring arrangements.
Solution Approach 2:
The device is designed to be self-contained with an integrated power source that automatically recharges when placed on the user's body. The control circuitry operates autonomously without requiring external intervention, and the device self-regulates its operation based on pre-programmed parameters, eliminating the need for user manual adjustment.
2Weight of moving object
If the device is made lightweight and flexible for comfort, then wearability improves, but structural strength and reliability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs flexible substrates and thin-film structures for the device housing and internal components. The case is designed as a thin, flexible enclosure that protects internal electronics while maintaining light weight and flexibility. This allows the device to conform to body contours without compromising the protection of internal components.
Solution Approach 2:
The device utilizes composite material construction combining flexible polymers, conductive materials, and lightweight structural elements. The housing integrates flexible yet durable materials that provide both protection and flexibility, while internal components use composite structures that maximize strength-to-weight ratio.
3Ease of manufacture
If the device is designed for limited use and disposable, then manufacturing complexity and cost are reduced, but resource utilization efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The device is pre-programmed with therapeutic parameters and waveforms during manufacturing. The control circuitry is pre-configured with treatment protocols that are automatically executed when the device is activated, eliminating the need for user programming or complex assembly steps. This preliminary configuration simplifies manufacturing while ensuring consistent therapeutic delivery.
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
Provides effective neuromodulation with enhanced user compliance and convenience, delivering reliable therapeutic effects without requiring user interaction or recharging, suitable for medical and consumer applications.
Implementation Method 1
Transdermal electric stimulation (hereinafter 'TES') using skin (e.g., scalp) electrodes has been used to affect brain function and nervous system function in humans
Implementation Method 2
adhesive hydrogel electrodes
Data Source
AI summary
Wearable neuromodulator devices may include a flexible substrate, a first electrode including a first hydrogel, and a second electrode including a second hydrogel. The first electrode may be concentrically arranged around the second electrode. The first and second electrodes may be on the flexible substrate. A control circuitry may be configured to deliver a predefined waveform between the first and second electrodes when a battery is powering the control circuitry and an impedance between the first and second electrodes is within a predefined range. The predefined waveform may have a frequency of between 100 Hz and 15 KHz and deliver a charge per phase of between 0.1-10 microCoulombs. An elastic cover may be attached to the flexible substrate. The battery and the control circuitry may be between the elastic cover and the flexible substrate. The device may weigh 20 g or less.