Wireless Pelvic Floor Sensor for EMG Biofeedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional EMG biofeedback systems are limited by the need for professional placement of sensors and the use of bulky equipment, which restricts their application and accessibility for patients.
Innovation Solution
A portable system with wireless sensors and a mobile device interface, including a garment or saddle with adjustable sensors and a Bluetooth Low Energy transmitter, allows for easy placement and real-time feedback without professional training, and incorporates gamification for user engagement and competition.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional EMG biofeedback equipment is used with multiple electrodes and a multifunctional computer, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the essential EMG sensing function from the complex traditional system, using a single wireless sensor that captures pelvic floor muscle signals without requiring the full array of electrodes and multifunctional computer equipment, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining measurement capability
Solution Approach 2:
The wireless sensor integrates multiple functions into a single device, combining signal detection, wireless transmission, and mobile device compatibility, eliminating the need for separate components and reducing overall system complexity
2Measurement precision
If traditional EMG biofeedback equipment with multiple electrodes is used, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to requiring professional training
Solution Approach 1:
The wireless sensor is designed for self-service placement by the patient themselves, eliminating the need for professional training. The sensor can be independently positioned and connected to a mobile device, allowing users to perform EMG biofeedback therapy without clinical intervention
Solution Approach 2:
The patent removes the requirement for professional placement training by extracting only the essential sensing function and implementing it through a simple wireless sensor that can be easily positioned and connected by the user themselves
3Measurement precision
If traditional EMG biofeedback uses a multifunctional computer, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to space requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/computational system (multifunctional computer) with a mobile device-based system that leverages existing smartphone or tablet hardware for signal processing and display, significantly reducing space requirements while maintaining measurement precision
Solution Approach 2:
The system utilizes the universal capabilities of mobile devices (processors, displays, wireless communication) to perform EMG signal analysis, eliminating the need for dedicated bulky computer equipment and improving portability
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 system provides effective EMG biofeedback for pelvic floor training, ensuring proper sensor placement and user engagement, improving treatment outcomes for muscular and neurologic disorders with enhanced accessibility and user interaction.
Implementation Method 1
Electromyograph (EMG) biofeedback utilizes real time measurements of muscle contraction and relaxation via measurement of action potentials
Implementation Method 2
a transmitter coupled to the plurality of sensors through the housing, the transmitter comprising a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) device
Data Source
AI summary
A computer-implemented method for pelvic floor feedback. The method includes capturing a strength of action potentials via wireless sensors, the wireless sensors positioned proximate to a pelvic floor of a user. The method also includes transmitting the strength of the action potentials to a mobile device. The method also includes recording the strength of the action potentials on the mobile device.