EP0000759A1 - Electrode - Google Patents
Electrode Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- EP0000759A1 EP0000759A1 EP7878100552A EP78100552A EP0000759A1 EP 0000759 A1 EP0000759 A1 EP 0000759A1 EP 7878100552 A EP7878100552 A EP 7878100552A EP 78100552 A EP78100552 A EP 78100552A EP 0000759 A1 EP0000759 A1 EP 0000759A1
- Authority
- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- electrode
- electrode according
- plastic
- conductive
- plastic foam
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Granted
Links
- 239000002984 plastic foam Substances 0.000 claims description 28
- 229920003023 plastic Polymers 0.000 claims description 18
- 239000004033 plastic Substances 0.000 claims description 18
- 239000007788 liquid Substances 0.000 claims description 15
- 239000002184 metal Substances 0.000 claims description 10
- 229920001821 foam rubber Polymers 0.000 claims description 9
- 238000000576 coating method Methods 0.000 claims description 8
- 230000002745 absorbent Effects 0.000 claims description 7
- 239000002250 absorbent Substances 0.000 claims description 7
- 239000011248 coating agent Substances 0.000 claims description 6
- 230000006835 compression Effects 0.000 claims description 6
- 238000007906 compression Methods 0.000 claims description 6
- OKTJSMMVPCPJKN-UHFFFAOYSA-N Carbon Chemical compound [C] OKTJSMMVPCPJKN-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims description 5
- 239000004952 Polyamide Substances 0.000 claims description 4
- 239000004698 Polyethylene Substances 0.000 claims description 4
- 229910002804 graphite Inorganic materials 0.000 claims description 4
- 239000010439 graphite Substances 0.000 claims description 4
- 229920002647 polyamide Polymers 0.000 claims description 4
- 229920000728 polyester Polymers 0.000 claims description 4
- -1 polyethylene Polymers 0.000 claims description 4
- 229920000573 polyethylene Polymers 0.000 claims description 4
- 229920002635 polyurethane Polymers 0.000 claims description 4
- 239000004814 polyurethane Substances 0.000 claims description 4
- 229920000915 polyvinyl chloride Polymers 0.000 claims description 4
- 238000007789 sealing Methods 0.000 claims description 4
- 229920002379 silicone rubber Polymers 0.000 claims description 4
- 229920002678 cellulose Polymers 0.000 claims description 3
- 239000001913 cellulose Substances 0.000 claims description 3
- 229920001971 elastomer Polymers 0.000 claims description 3
- 229920000570 polyether Polymers 0.000 claims description 3
- 239000005060 rubber Substances 0.000 claims description 3
- 239000004800 polyvinyl chloride Substances 0.000 claims description 2
- 239000004945 silicone rubber Substances 0.000 claims description 2
- 230000015572 biosynthetic process Effects 0.000 claims 2
- 239000004721 Polyphenylene oxide Substances 0.000 claims 1
- 238000010276 construction Methods 0.000 claims 1
- 239000006260 foam Substances 0.000 abstract description 43
- 239000011148 porous material Substances 0.000 abstract description 17
- 229920003002 synthetic resin Polymers 0.000 abstract 2
- 239000000057 synthetic resin Substances 0.000 abstract 2
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- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 description 4
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- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 description 3
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- 230000000996 additive effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 229910052799 carbon Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 210000002421 cell wall Anatomy 0.000 description 1
- 210000003850 cellular structure Anatomy 0.000 description 1
- 239000004020 conductor Substances 0.000 description 1
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- 238000002347 injection Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000007924 injection Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229920001296 polysiloxane Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 239000000243 solution Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000007921 spray Substances 0.000 description 1
- 210000004243 sweat Anatomy 0.000 description 1
- 229920003051 synthetic elastomer Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 239000005061 synthetic rubber Substances 0.000 description 1
- 210000001519 tissue Anatomy 0.000 description 1
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- 210000003934 vacuole Anatomy 0.000 description 1
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- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N water Substances O XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61N—ELECTROTHERAPY; MAGNETOTHERAPY; RADIATION THERAPY; ULTRASOUND THERAPY
- A61N1/00—Electrotherapy; Circuits therefor
- A61N1/02—Details
- A61N1/04—Electrodes
- A61N1/0404—Electrodes for external use
- A61N1/0472—Structure-related aspects
- A61N1/0476—Array electrodes (including any electrode arrangement with more than one electrode for at least one of the polarities)
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
- A61B5/00—Measuring for diagnostic purposes; Identification of persons
- A61B5/24—Detecting, measuring or recording bioelectric or biomagnetic signals of the body or parts thereof
- A61B5/25—Bioelectric electrodes therefor
- A61B5/251—Means for maintaining electrode contact with the body
- A61B5/252—Means for maintaining electrode contact with the body by suction
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
- A61B5/00—Measuring for diagnostic purposes; Identification of persons
- A61B5/24—Detecting, measuring or recording bioelectric or biomagnetic signals of the body or parts thereof
- A61B5/25—Bioelectric electrodes therefor
- A61B5/279—Bioelectric electrodes therefor specially adapted for particular uses
- A61B5/28—Bioelectric electrodes therefor specially adapted for particular uses for electrocardiography [ECG]
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61N—ELECTROTHERAPY; MAGNETOTHERAPY; RADIATION THERAPY; ULTRASOUND THERAPY
- A61N1/00—Electrotherapy; Circuits therefor
- A61N1/02—Details
- A61N1/04—Electrodes
- A61N1/0404—Electrodes for external use
- A61N1/0408—Use-related aspects
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61N—ELECTROTHERAPY; MAGNETOTHERAPY; RADIATION THERAPY; ULTRASOUND THERAPY
- A61N1/00—Electrotherapy; Circuits therefor
- A61N1/02—Details
- A61N1/04—Electrodes
- A61N1/0404—Electrodes for external use
- A61N1/0472—Structure-related aspects
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61N—ELECTROTHERAPY; MAGNETOTHERAPY; RADIATION THERAPY; ULTRASOUND THERAPY
- A61N1/00—Electrotherapy; Circuits therefor
- A61N1/02—Details
- A61N1/04—Electrodes
- A61N1/0404—Electrodes for external use
- A61N1/0472—Structure-related aspects
- A61N1/0492—Patch electrodes
Definitions
- the invention relates to an electrode for taking or supplying electrical signals.
- Electrodes of this type can be used to take bioelectric signals, such as EKG or the like.
- electrical signals for example stimulation current during stimulation current treatment, can also be supplied to a body via such an electrode.
- Electrodes of the type mentioned in the introduction can also be designed as suction electrodes. Such suction electrodes are used in electromedicine for therapy as well as for diagnosis. From DE-AS 12 24 847 a suction electrode is already known, in which a vacuum is generated at the application point by sucking air out of the suction cup housing, so that the suction cup housing including the electrode adheres to the application point. To make a lei an elastic sponge plate (natural or viscose sponge) with contact liquid (mostly water) serves as the connection between the body surface and the actual electrode.
- contact liquid mostly water
- suction electrodes due to the pure suction principle, contact liquid is permanently sucked in through the feed hose by the suction pump, as a result of which the contact liquid can collect in the feed hose and in the suction pump which is at earth potential; Apart from the undesired pollution, electrical shunts can also form.
- This disadvantage is remedied in the essential points by suction electrodes which work according to the air jet pump principle (injector principle).
- Suction electrodes of this type are known for example from DT-AS 19 39 523. With these electrodes, the sucked-in contact liquid is sprayed out into the open by the flow of the pressurizing gas generating the negative pressure, away from the jet pump.
- the electrodes make good contact, so that signals can be taken from the patient's body as free of interference as possible or current can be supplied to the patient's body via the electrode without interference.
- the object of the present invention is to provide electrodes which optimally meet these conditions.
- the suction electrode should be designed with the least effort so that the electrodes do not accidentally loosen and fall off after application.
- the electrode comprises at least one conductive plastic foam insert which is provided with an application-side pore-closed contact surface for producing the electrical contact during application.
- the foam plastics have a specific electrical resistance of less than 2000 ohms. cm and a compression hardness between 1 and 20 kPa.
- the plastics are, for example, silicone rubbers, polyurethanes, such as polyethers and polyesters, polyethylenes, polyvinyl chlorides and polyamides. Foams made from these base materials can, if they are foamed with open pores, be easily conductive. Another possibility is to use conductive base materials for the production of the foams.
- the invention uses as a key additive for electrical. the one plastic foam insert.
- a plastic foam In contrast to the usual contacting means, such as felt or viscose sponges provided with contact liquid, such a plastic foam already has excellent electrical conductivity without additional contact liquid. Impregnation with such a contact liquid can therefore be dispensed with from the outset, which considerably simplifies application with excellent contacting.
- the conductive foam In addition to good conductivity, the conductive foam also has excellent elasticity, so that a good one Fitting of the entire electrode surface on the skin is guaranteed. This in turn results in increased interference immunity when the electrical signals are picked up or supplied.
- the plastic-foam insert with its application-side contact surface can lie directly on the patient's skin (especially in AC operation with constant voltage). For optimal contacting, ie enlarging the contact area and thus reducing the electrode resistance, it is recommended. it is, however, on the contact surface a damp E l ektrodenpapier to install.
- This electrode paper which should preferably consist of absorbent, approx. 0.4 mm thick cellulose (fleece), only absorbs the amount of liquid necessary to reduce the electrode resistance.
- the application of such an electrode paper is optimally simplified if the application-side contact surface of the plastic foam insert is smooth - in particular by surface-pore-coating an open-pore foam, ie, so-called coating.
- the interfaces are already smooth when the material is foamed, so that "the special pore-sealing lacquer can then be omitted.
- a moistened electrode paper adheres to such a smooth surface solely due to adhesion.
- the electrode according to the invention can also be used as a multiple electrode.
- a number of art corresponding to the desired number of contact points arranged material-foam inserts on a common electrode carrier.
- the plastic foam inserts are then covered on the application side with a common electrode paper.
- the spaces between the electrode carrier and the common electrode paper that are free of plastic foam inserts are then preferably filled by non-conductive inserts, for example made of foam rubber.
- the contamination of the suction nozzles is no longer present from the outset.
- an electrode carrier 2 made of non-conductive foam rubber is arranged in an electrode housing 1 and carries a plastic foam insert 3 towards the housing opening. Between foam rubber 2 and foam insert 3 there is a metal gauze 4 as a large-area connection contact for an electrical line 5, via which a current can be drawn off or supplied.
- the plastic foam insert 3 is made smooth in the case of open-pore foaming of the base material on its application surface 6 by surface-coating which closes pores (so-called coating).
- the smooth surface 6 serves to hold an electrode paper 7, which remains well adhered by adhesion in the moistened state.
- the electrode paper which is preferably made of absorbent, 0.4 mm thick tissue (fleece), only absorbs the amount of liquid required to reduce the electrode resistance.
- the multiple electrode of FIG. 2 comprises a total of four plastic foam inserts 9 to 12, which are held at a distance from one another on a common carrier 8, which in turn is preferably non-conductive foam rubber. All of the foam inserts 9 to 12 are designed in accordance with the use of the electrode of FIG. 1, that is to say they occupy smooth application surfaces due to the surface-sealing varnish. All foam inserts are also covered on the application side with a common electrode paper 13, for example fleece again. Each foam insert 9 to 12 is also extensively contacted with a metal gauze mesh. Each metal braid is provided with its own cable for power consumption or supply. In FIG. 2 and also in the detail enlargement of FIG. 3, such a metal gauze is designated 15 specifically for the foam insert 10. The associated power line is marked with 16.
- the power lines of the remaining three plastic foam inserts are indicated in FIG. 2 with 17, 18 and 19.
- the paper-carrying, lacquered application surface of the plastic foam insert 10 is also designated by 14.
- the enlargement of the details also shows that the spaces between the electrode carrier 8 and the common electrode paper 13, which are free of plastic foam inserts 9 to 12, are filled with non-conductive inserts, preferably also made of foam rubber, which ensure a good spring contact without risk of the electrode paper 13 breaking.
- the single electrode of FIG. 1 is particularly suitable for use when taking an EKG or other. physical physiological signals.
- the multiple electrode of FIG. 2 is preferably used in stimulation current treatment (diagnosis and therapy), where several stimulation currents to be superimposed are to be supplied to the patient's body at the same time in order to generate an interference current field. Equalizing currents between the plastic inserts are negligible when the electrode paper is thin.
- the suction electrode comprises an eyepiece 21 as an electrode housing, which has, for example, the essentially cylindrical shape, which can be easily adapted to the curvature of the body surface by slightly compressing the elastic jacket in the application area.
- the suction cup housing 21 In the upper part of the suction cup housing 21 is the jet pipe 22 of the air jet pump with a connection piece 23 (preferably plug-in cone) for the hose to a (not shown) pressurized gas generator and with a free outlet 24 for the pressurized gas of the jet pump.
- the jet pipe 22 of the air jet pump is preferably a plastic injection molded part; In contrast to pipes made of metal, this prevents any kind of corrosion (decomposition of the metallic jet pump due to electrolysing processes) and thus guarantees that small nozzle cross-sections are maintained from this side. Thanks to the ideal shape, which is easier to achieve with plastic processing than with metal processing, the efficiency of the air jet pump made of plastic can be increased compared to that of metal.
- the interior of the jet pipe 22 is connected to the vacuum chamber 28 of the suction cup housing 21 via a narrow nozzle 25 and a bore 26 in an electrode carrier plate 27.
- the carrier plate 27 is made of conductive material, preferably graphite or conductive rubber; however, it can equally well be made of metal.
- the conductive carrier plate 28 now carries a non-absorbent or only slightly absorbent but highly electrically conductive plastic foam insert 29 instead of the previously exchangeable felt or viscose sponge.
- the foam insert 29 projects in the direction of the application opening of the suction cup housing 21 and it is with open-cell foam of the base material on its application surface 30 is made smooth by superficially pore-sealing lacquer.
- the smooth one Surface 30 serves to receive an electrode paper 31 which, when moistened, adheres well by adhesion.
- the electrode paper which preferably consists of absorbent, 0.4 mm thick cellulose (fleece), only absorbs the amount of liquid necessary to reduce the electrode resistance. Since the electrode applied is a practically closed system, the transpiration of the skin can also contribute to contacting. Sucking off large amounts of excess contact fluid or body sweat and the associated carrying of dirt is avoided in any case from the outset.
- the hygienic application is also significantly improved if cheap disposable paper is used as electrode paper. Dandruff or other deposits can be removed after each treatment by throwing away the electrode paper. In this way, too, a possible source for clogging of the suction nozzle 25 is eliminated.
- the suction electrode of FIG. 4 is suitable, for example, for the stimulation current treatment (diagnosis and therapy); it can also be used to take an EKG or other physiological body signals.
- the supply or removal of the electrical currents to or from the electrode consisting of plastic foam insert 29, carrier part 27 and electrode paper 31 takes place via the hose connection piece 23, which is metallic for the current transfer to the carrier plate 27.
- FIG. 4 specifically includes a suction electrode based on the air jet pump principle.
- a suction electrode ensures particularly good adhesion, provided the narrow suction nozzles in the invention senses according to the invention always remain open.
- the liquid-reducing application with conductive foam can also be used with suction cup electrodes with a suction pump housed on the device side. Since practically no contact liquid is sucked in, the risk of excess contact liquid accumulating in the suction lines or in the suction pump is eliminated and the associated disadvantages can no longer occur.
- Foamable, soft-elastic plastics are used as materials for the foam inserts 3, 9 to 12 and 29.
- foams are an artificially produced, specifically light material with a cellular structure.
- the properties of foam plastics in particular are determined both by the type of base materials and by the pore structure.
- closed-cell foams the individual air or gas bubbles are sealed off from one another, while in the case of open-cell foams they are connected to one another. In between there are the mixed-cell foams with a continuous transition from one group to the other.
- the pore volume, i.e. the percentage volume of the bubbles (vacuoles) of the total volume is generally always over 50% and goes up to 99%; it is an essential significant parameter for the mechanical properties of the foam.
- the so-called compression hardness is expediently determined as a measure of the softness, ie the flexible properties of the foams.
- the second group of foams can already be made electrically conductive as a starting solution by dispersed conductive particles. Both the abovementioned substances, which predominantly form open-pore foams, and such substances, which predominantly form closed-pore foams, can be used as base materials for this.
Abstract
Description
Die Erfindung bezieht sich auf eine Elektrode zur Abnahme oder Zuführung von elektrischen Signalen.The invention relates to an electrode for taking or supplying electrical signals.
Elektroden dieser Art lassen sich zur Abnahme bioelektrischer Signale, wie EKG od.dgl., einsetzen. Ebensogut können über eine solche Elektrode einem Körper jedoch auch elektrische Signale, beispielsweise Reizstrom bei der Reizstrombehandlung, zugeführt werden.Electrodes of this type can be used to take bioelectric signals, such as EKG or the like. However, electrical signals, for example stimulation current during stimulation current treatment, can also be supplied to a body via such an electrode.
Elektroden der eingangs genannten Art können auch als Saugelektroden ausgebildet sein. Solche Saugelektroden werden in der Elektromedizin gleichermaßen zur Therapie als auch zur Diagnostik angewandt. Durch die DE-AS 12 24 847 ist bereits eine Saugelektrode vorbekannt, bei der durch Absaugen von Luft aus dem Saugnapfgehäuse ein Unterdruck an der Applikationsstelle erzeugt-wird, so daß das Saugnapfgehäuse samt Elektrode an der Applikationsstelle haften bleibt. Zur Herstellung einer leitenden Verbindung zwischen Körperoberfläche und eigentlicher Elektrode dient eine elastische Schwammplatte (Natur- oder Viskoseschwamm) mit Kontaktflüssigkeit (meistens Wasser). Der wesentliche Nachteil der Saugelektroden besteht darin, daß aufgrund des reinen Saugprinzips permanent Kontaktflüssigkeit durch den Zuführungsschlauch von der Saugpumpe angesaugt wird, wodurch sich die Kontaktflüssigkeit im Zuführungsschlauch und in der auf Erdpotential liegenden Saugpumpe sammeln kann; abgesehen von der unerwünschten Verschmutzung können sich also auch elektrische Nebenschlüsse bilden. Dieser Nachteil wird in den wesentlichen Punkten durch solche Saugelektroden behoben, die nach dem Luftstrahlpumpenprinzip (Injektorprinzip) arbeiten. Saugelektroden dieser Art sind beispielsweise aus der DT-AS 19 39 523 vorbekannt. Bei diesen Elektroden wird die angesaugte Kontaktflüssigkeit von der Strömung des den Unterdruck erzeugenden Preßgases, von der Strahlpumpe weg ins Freie gesprüht. Die Kontaktflüssigkeit kann also nicht mehr in die Leitungen zur Saugpumpe gelangen, so daß elektrische Nebenschlüsse dort auch nicht mehr auftreten können. Trotz der erheblichen Vorteile der Saugelektroden nach dem Luftstrahlpumpenprinzip ergeben sich aber auch gewisse Nachteile. Bedingt durch die kleinen Düsenquerschnitte zwischen Unterdruckraum und Strahlrohr im Saugnapfgehäuse kommt es schon bei geringen Verunreinigungen relativ rasch zu Verengungen. Es besteht also Gefahr, daß die Saugelektroden sich lockern und abfallen.Electrodes of the type mentioned in the introduction can also be designed as suction electrodes. Such suction electrodes are used in electromedicine for therapy as well as for diagnosis. From DE-AS 12 24 847 a suction electrode is already known, in which a vacuum is generated at the application point by sucking air out of the suction cup housing, so that the suction cup housing including the electrode adheres to the application point. To make a lei an elastic sponge plate (natural or viscose sponge) with contact liquid (mostly water) serves as the connection between the body surface and the actual electrode. The main disadvantage of the suction electrodes is that due to the pure suction principle, contact liquid is permanently sucked in through the feed hose by the suction pump, as a result of which the contact liquid can collect in the feed hose and in the suction pump which is at earth potential; Apart from the undesired pollution, electrical shunts can also form. This disadvantage is remedied in the essential points by suction electrodes which work according to the air jet pump principle (injector principle). Suction electrodes of this type are known for example from DT-AS 19 39 523. With these electrodes, the sucked-in contact liquid is sprayed out into the open by the flow of the pressurizing gas generating the negative pressure, away from the jet pump. The K o ntaktflüssigkeit can therefore no longer get inside the piping to the suction pump, so that electrical shunts also can no longer occur there. Despite the considerable advantages of suction electrodes based on the air jet pump principle, there are also certain disadvantages. Due to the small nozzle cross-sections between the vacuum chamber and the spray lance in the suction cup housing, constrictions can occur relatively quickly even with low levels of contamination. There is thus a risk that the sow electrodes g loosen and fall off.
In jedem Fall ist es aber wesentlich, daß die Elektroden gut kontaktieren, so daß Signale vom Patientenkörper möglichst störungsfrei abgenommen werden können oder dem Patientenkörper über die Elektrode störungsfrei Strom zugeführt werden kann.In any case, however, it is essential that the electrodes make good contact, so that signals can be taken from the patient's body as free of interference as possible or current can be supplied to the patient's body via the electrode without interference.
Aufgabe vorliegender Erfindung ist es, Elektroden anzugeben, die diese Bedingungen optimal erfüllen. Insbesondere die Saugelektrode soll mit geringstem Aufwand so ausgebildet sein, daß die Elektroden nach Applikation sich nicht unbeabsichtigt lockern und abfallen.The object of the present invention is to provide electrodes which optimally meet these conditions. In particular, the suction electrode should be designed with the least effort so that the electrodes do not accidentally loosen and fall off after application.
Die Aufgabe wird erfindungsgemäß dadurch gelöst, daß die Elektrode wenigstens einen leitfähigen Kunststoff-Schaumstoffeinsatz umfaßt, der mit einer applikationsseitigen porenverschlossenen Kontaktfläche zur Herstellung des elektrischen Kontaktes bei Applikation versehen ist. Dabei weisen die Schaumkunststoffe einen spezifischen elektrischen Widerstand kleiner als 2000 Ohm . cm und eine Stauchhärte zwischen 1 und 20 kPa auf. Die Kunststoffe sind beispielsweise Silikonkautschuke, Polyurethane, wie Polyäther und Polyester, Polyäthylene, Polyvinylchloride und Polyamide. Schaumstoffe aus diesen Basismaterialien lassen sich, sofern sie offenporig geschäumt werden, in einfacher Weise beleitfähigen. Eine andere Möglichkeit besteht darin, zur Herstellung der Schaumstoffe bereits leitfähige Basismaterialien zu verwenden.The object is achieved in that the electrode comprises at least one conductive plastic foam insert which is provided with an application-side pore-closed contact surface for producing the electrical contact during application. The foam plastics have a specific electrical resistance of less than 2000 ohms. cm and a compression hardness between 1 and 20 kPa. The plastics are, for example, silicone rubbers, polyurethanes, such as polyethers and polyesters, polyethylenes, polyvinyl chlorides and polyamides. Foams made from these base materials can, if they are foamed with open pores, be easily conductive. Another possibility is to use conductive base materials for the production of the foams.
Die Erfindung verwendet als Leitzusatz für die Elektro-. den einen Kunststoff-Schaumstoffeinsatz. Im Gegensatz zu den üblichen Kontaktierungsmitteln, wie z.B. mit Kontaktflüssigkeit versehene Filz- oder Viskoseschwämme, weist ein solcher Kunststoff-Schaumstoff bereits ohne zusätzliche Kontaktflüssigkeit ausgezeichnete elektrische Leitfähigkeit auf. Auf die Tränkung mit einer solchen Kontaktflüssigkeit kann also von vornherein verzichtet werden, wodurch sich die Applikation bei ausgezeichneter Kontaktierung erheblich erleichtert. Der leitende Schaumstoff besitzt neben guter Leitfähigkeit auch ausgezeichnete Elastizität, so daß ein gutes Anliegen der gesamten Elektrodenfläche auf der Haut gewährleistet ist. Hieraus wiederum resultiert erhöhte Störsicherheit bei der Abnahme bzw. Zuführung der elektrischen Signale.The invention uses as a key additive for electrical. the one plastic foam insert. In contrast to the usual contacting means, such as felt or viscose sponges provided with contact liquid, such a plastic foam already has excellent electrical conductivity without additional contact liquid. Impregnation with such a contact liquid can therefore be dispensed with from the outset, which considerably simplifies application with excellent contacting. In addition to good conductivity, the conductive foam also has excellent elasticity, so that a good one Fitting of the entire electrode surface on the skin is guaranteed. This in turn results in increased interference immunity when the electrical signals are picked up or supplied.
Der Kunststoff-Schaumstoffeinsatz kann mit seiner applikationsseitigen Kontaktfläche direkt an der Haut des Patienten anliegen (insbesondere bei Wechselspannungsbetrieb mit konstanter Spannung). Zur optimalen Kontaktierung, d.h. Kontaktflächenvergrößerung und damit Herabsetzung des Elektrodenwiderstandes, empfiehlt. es sich jedoch, auf der Kontaktfläche ein angefeuchtetes Elektrodenpapier anzubringen. DiesesElektrodenpapier, das vorzugsweise aus saugfähigem, ca. 0,4 mm dickem Zellstoff (Vlies) bestehen soll, nimmt nur die zur Herabsetzung des Elektrodenwiderstandes notwendige Flüssigkeitsmenge auf. In vorteilhafter Ausgestaltung wird das Anbringen eines solchen Elektrodenpapiers optimal vereinfacht, wenn die applikationsseitige Kontaktfläche des Kunststoff-Schaumstoffeinsatzes - insbesondere durch oberflächlich porenverschließende Lackierung eines offenporigen Schaumstoffes, d.h. sogenanntes coating - glatt ausgebildet wird. Speziell bei Verwendung von geschlossenporigen Schaumstoffen und leitfähigem Basismaterial sind bereits die Grenzflächen beim Aufschäumen des Materials glatt, so daß "die spezielle porenverschließende Lackierung dann entfallen kann. An einer solchen glatten Fläche haftet ein angefeuchtetes Elektrodenpapier allein aufgrund Adhäsion.The plastic-foam insert with its application-side contact surface can lie directly on the patient's skin (especially in AC operation with constant voltage). For optimal contacting, ie enlarging the contact area and thus reducing the electrode resistance, it is recommended. it is, however, on the contact surface a damp E l ektrodenpapier to install. This electrode paper, which should preferably consist of absorbent, approx. 0.4 mm thick cellulose (fleece), only absorbs the amount of liquid necessary to reduce the electrode resistance. In an advantageous embodiment, the application of such an electrode paper is optimally simplified if the application-side contact surface of the plastic foam insert is smooth - in particular by surface-pore-coating an open-pore foam, ie, so-called coating. Especially when using closed-cell foams and conductive base material, the interfaces are already smooth when the material is foamed, so that " the special pore-sealing lacquer can then be omitted. A moistened electrode paper adheres to such a smooth surface solely due to adhesion.
Die Elektrode gemäß der Erfindung läßt sich auch als Mehrfachelektrode einsetzen. In der Ausbildung als Mehrfachelektrode ist dabei eine der gewünschten Zahl der Kontaktstellen entsprechende Anzahl von Kunststoff-Schaumstoffeinsätzen auf einem gemeinsamen Elektrodenträger angeordnet. In vorteilhafter Ausgestaltung sind dann die Kunststoff-Schaumstoffeinsätze applikationsseitig mit einem gemeinsamen Elektrodenpapier abgedeckt. Die von Kunststoff-Schaumstoffeinsätzen freien Zwischenräume zwischen Elektrodenträger und gemeinsamem Elektrodenpapier sind dann vorzugsweise durch nichtleitende Einsätze, z.B. aus Moosgummi, ausgefüllt.The electrode according to the invention can also be used as a multiple electrode. In training as a multiple electrode, a number of art corresponding to the desired number of contact points arranged material-foam inserts on a common electrode carrier. In an advantageous embodiment, the plastic foam inserts are then covered on the application side with a common electrode paper. The spaces between the electrode carrier and the common electrode paper that are free of plastic foam inserts are then preferably filled by non-conductive inserts, for example made of foam rubber.
Bei Verwendung der Erfindung als Saugelektrode ist besonders vorteilhaft, daß die Verunreinigung der Saugdüsen speziell aufgrund von zusätzlicher Kontaktflüssigkeit von vornherein nicht mehr gegeben ist. Darüber hinaus ist aber auch die Möglichkeit einer Verunreinigung durch sonstige Flüssigkeiten, z.B. auch Schweiß des transpirierenden Patienten, stark herabgesetzt bzw. ganz unterbunden, da Kunststoff-Schaumstoff mit porenverschlossener Oberfläche nicht saugfähig ist.When using the invention as a suction electrode, it is particularly advantageous that the contamination of the suction nozzles, especially due to additional contact liquid, is no longer present from the outset. In addition, there is also the possibility of contamination by other liquids, e.g. also perspiration of the perspiring patient, greatly reduced or completely prevented, since plastic foam with a pore-sealed surface is not absorbent.
Weitere Vorteile und Einzelheiten der Erfindung ergeben sich aus der nachfolgenden Beschreibung von Ausführungsbeispielen anhand der Zeichnung in Verbindung mit den Unteransprüchen.Further advantages and details of the invention emerge from the following description of exemplary embodiments with reference to the drawing in conjunction with the subclaims.
Es zeigen:
- Fig. 1 eine Einfachelektrode gemäß der Erfindung, teilweise im Schnitt,
- Fig. 2 eine Mehrfachelektrode in Draufsicht und Seitenansicht,
- Fig. 3 eine Detailvergrößerung des Details A in Fig. 2,
- Fig. 4 eine als Saugelektrode ausgebildete erfindungsgemäße Elektrode in Seitenansicht, teilweise im Schnitt.
- 1 is a single electrode according to the invention, partly in section,
- 2 shows a multiple electrode in plan view and side view,
- 3 shows an enlarged detail of detail A in FIG. 2,
- Fig. 4 is a suction electrode designed according to the invention in side view, partially in section.
In der Fig. 1 ist in einem Elektrodengehäuse 1 ein Elektrodenträger 2.aus nichtleitendem Moosgummi angeordnet, der zur Gehäuseöffnung hin einen Kunststoff-Schaumstoffeinsatz 3 trägt. Zwischen Moosgummi 2 und Schaumstoffeinsatz 3 liegt eine Metallgaze 4 als großflächiger Anschlußkontakt für eine elektrische Leitung 5, über die ein Strom abgenommen oder zugeführt werden kann. Der Kunststoff-Schaumstoffeinsatz 3 ist bei offenporiger Schäumung des Basismaterials an seiner Applikationsfläche 6 durch oberflächlich porenverschließende Lackierung (sogenanntes coating) glatt ausgebildet. Die glatte Fläche 6 dient zur Aufnahme eines Elektrodenpapiers 7, das im angefeuchteten Zustand durch Adhäsion gut haften bleibt. Das Elektrodenpapier, das vorzugsweise aus saugfähigem,0,4 mm dickem Zeilstoff (Vlies) besteht, nimmt nur die zur Herabsetzung des Elektrodenwiderstandes notwendige Flüssigkeitsmenge auf.In FIG. 1, an electrode carrier 2 made of non-conductive foam rubber is arranged in an electrode housing 1 and carries a plastic foam insert 3 towards the housing opening. Between foam rubber 2 and foam insert 3 there is a metal gauze 4 as a large-area connection contact for an electrical line 5, via which a current can be drawn off or supplied. The plastic foam insert 3 is made smooth in the case of open-pore foaming of the base material on its
Die Mehrfachelektrode der Fig. 2 umfaßt insgesamt vier Kunststoff-Schaumstoffeinsätze 9 bis 12, die im Abstand voneinander an einem gemeinsamen Träger 8, bei dem'es sich vorzugsweise wiederum um nichtleitenden Moosgummi handelt, gehaltert sind. Sämtliche Schaumstoffeinsätze 9 bis 12 sind entsprechend dem Einsatz der Elektrode der Fig. 1 ausgebildet, d.h. sie besetzen glatte Applikationsflächen aufgrund oberflächlich parenverschlieBender Lackierung. Sämtliche Schaumstoffeinsätze sind ferner an der Applikatiönsseite mit einem gemeinsamen Elektrodenpapier-13, z.B. wiederum Vlies, abgedeckt. Jeder Schaumstoffeinsatz 9 bis 12 ist ferner mit einem Metallgazegeflecht großflächig kontaktiert. Jedes Metallgeflecht ist mit einer eigenen Leitung zur Stromabnahme bzw. Stromzuführung versehen. In der Fig. 2 und auch in der Detailvergrößerung der Fig. 3 ist eine solche Metallgaze speziell für del Schaumstoffeinsatz 10 mit 15 bezeichnet. Die zugehörige Stromleitung ist mit 16 gekennzeichnet. Die Stromleitungen der restlichen drei Kunststoff-Schaumstoffeinsätze sind in der Fig. 2 mit 17, 18 und 19 angedeutet. In der Detailvergrößerung der Fig. 3 ist außerdem die papiertragende lackierte Applikationsfläche des Kunststoff-Schaumstoffeinsatzes 10 mit 14 bezeichnet. Aus der Detailvergrößerung geht auch hervor, daß die von Kunststoff-Schaumstoffeinsätzen 9 bis 12 freien Zwischenräume zwischen Elektrodenträger 8 und gemeinsamem Elektrodenpapier 13 durch nichtleitende Einsätze, vorzugsweise ebenfalls aus Moosgummi, ausgefillt sind, die eine gut federnde Kontaktierung ohne Bnchgefahr des Elektrodenpapiers 13 gewährleisten.The multiple electrode of FIG. 2 comprises a total of four
Di Einfachelektrode der Fig. 1 eignet sich insbesotere zum Einsatz bei der Abnahme eines EKG oder son-. stiger physiologischer Körpersignale. Die Mehrfachelektrcde der Fig. 2 wird hingegen bevorzugt bei der Reizstrmbehandlung (Diagnostik und Therapie) eingesetzt,wo bei pielsweise zur Erzeugung eines Interferenzstromfeldes dem Patientenkörper gleichzeitig mehrere zu überlagernde Reizströme zugeführt werden sollen. Ausgleichsströle zwischen den Kunststoff-Einsätzen sind bei entspro end dünnem Elektrodenpapier vernachlässigbar.The single electrode of FIG. 1 is particularly suitable for use when taking an EKG or other. physical physiological signals. The multiple electrode of FIG. 2, on the other hand, is preferably used in stimulation current treatment (diagnosis and therapy), where several stimulation currents to be superimposed are to be supplied to the patient's body at the same time in order to generate an interference current field. Equalizing currents between the plastic inserts are negligible when the electrode paper is thin.
Die Sugelektrode nach Fig. 4 arbeitet speziell nach dem Luftstrahlpumpenprinzip. Die Saugelektrode umfaßt einen augnapf 21 als Elektrodengehäuse, der beispielsweise the im wesentlichen zylindrische Form aufweist, die durch leichtes Zusammendrücken des elastischen Mantels im Applikationsbereich gut an die Krümmung der Körperoberfläche angepaßt werden kann. Im oberen Teil des Saugnapfgehäuses 21 befindet sich das Strahlrohr 22 der Luftstrahlpumpe mit einem Anschlußstück 23 (vorzugsweise Steckkonus) für den Schlauch zu einem (nicht dargestellten) Preßgaserzeuger und mit einem freien Auslauf 24 für das Preßgas der Strahlpumpe. Das Strahlrohr 22 der Luftstrahlpumpe ist vorzugsweise ein Kunststoffspritzteil; im Gegensatz zu Rohren aus Metall wird hierdurch jede Art von Korrosion (Zersetzungserscheinungen der metallischen Strahlpumpe aufgrund elektrolysierender Vorgänge) vermieden und somit auch von dieser Seite her die Beibehaltung kleiner Düsenquerschnitte garantiert. Durch ideale Formgestaltung, die sich bei Kunststoffbearbeitung leichter als bei Metallbearbeitung erreichen läßt, kann außerdem der Wirkungsgrad der Luftstrahlpumpe aus Kunststoff gegenüber jenen aus Metall gesteigert werden. Im Ausführungsbeispiel nach Fig. 4 gemäß der Zeichnung ist der Innenraum des Strahlrohres 22iber eine enge Düse 25 sowie eine Bohrung 26 in einer Elektrodenträgerplatte 27 mit dem Unterdruckraum 28 des Saugnapfgehäuses 21 verbunden. Die Trägerplatte 27 besteht aus leitendem Material, vorzugsweise aus Graphit oder Leitgummi; sie kann jedoch ebensogut auch aus Metall gefertigt sein. Die leitende Trägerplatte 28 trägt nun anstelle des bisher üblichen auswechselbaren Filz- oder Viskoseschwammes einen nicht oder nur wenig saugfähigen, aber gut elektrisch leitenden Kunststoff-Schaumstoffeinsatz 29. Der Schaumstoffeinsatz 29 ragt in Richtung der-Applikationsöffnung des Saugnapfgehäuses 21 und er ist bei offenporiger'Schäumung des Basismaterials an seiner Applikationsfläche 30 durch oberflächlich porenverschließende Lackierung glatt ausgebildet. Die glatte Fläche 30 dient zur Aufnahme eines Elektrodenpapiers 31, das in angefeuchtetem Zustand durch Adhäsion gut haften bleibt. Das Elektrodenpapier, das vorzugsweise aus saugfähigem, 0,4 mm dickem Zellstoff (Vlies) besteht, nimmt nur die zur Herabsetzung des Elektrodenwiderstandes notwendige Flüssigkeitsmenge auf. Da es sich bei der angelegten Elektrode um ein praktisch abgeschlossenes System handelt, kann die Transpiration der Haut zusätzlich zur Kontaktierung beitragen. Ein Absaugen großer Mengen überschüssiger Kontaktflüssigkeit oder auch von Körperschweiß sowie ein damit verbundenes Mitführen von Verschmutzungen wird jedoch auf jeden Fall von vornherein vermieden. Die hygienische Applikation wird ferner erheblich verbessert, wenn als Elektrodenpapier billiges Einmalpapier verwendet wird. So können Hautschuppen oder sonstige Ablagerungen nach jeder Behandlung mit dem Wegwerfen des Elektrodenpapiers beseitigt werden. Auch so wird eine mögliche Quelle für ein Verstopfen der Ansaugdüse 25 beseitigt.4 works specifically according to the air jet pump principle. The suction electrode comprises an
Die Saugelektrode der Fig. 4 eignet sich beispielsweise für die Reizstrombehandlung (Diagnostik und Therapie); sie läßt sich ebensogut auch zur Abnahme eines EKG oder sonstiger physiologischer Körpersignale einsetzen. Die Zuführung bzw. Abnahme der elektrischen Ströme zu bzw. von der aus Kunststoff-Schaumstoffeinsatz 29, Trägerteil 27 und Elektrodenpapier 31 bestehenden Elektrode erfolgt über das Schlauchanschlußstück 23, das für den Stromübertritt zur Trägerplatte 27 metallisch ausgebildet ist.The suction electrode of FIG. 4 is suitable, for example, for the stimulation current treatment (diagnosis and therapy); it can also be used to take an EKG or other physiological body signals. The supply or removal of the electrical currents to or from the electrode consisting of
Das Ausführungsbeispiel nach Fig. 4 beinhaltet speziell eine Saugelektrode nach dem Luftstrahlpumpenprinzip. Eine derartige Saugelektrode gewährleistet besonders gute Haftung, sofern die engen Saugdüsen im erfindungsgemäßen Sinne immer offen bleiben. Selbstverständlich läßt sich jedoch die flüssigkeitsreduzierende Applikation mit leitendem Schaumstoff auch bei Saugnapfelektroden mit geräteseitig untergebrachter Saugpumpe einsetzen. Da praktisch keine Kontaktflüssigkeit angesaugt wird, ist die Gefahr einer Ansammlung überschüssiger Kontaktflüssigkeit in den Saugleitungen bzw. in der Saugpumpe beseitigt und die damit verbundenen Nachteile können nicht mehr auftreten.The embodiment of FIG. 4 specifically includes a suction electrode based on the air jet pump principle. Such a suction electrode ensures particularly good adhesion, provided the narrow suction nozzles in the invention senses according to the invention always remain open. Of course, however, the liquid-reducing application with conductive foam can also be used with suction cup electrodes with a suction pump housed on the device side. Since practically no contact liquid is sucked in, the risk of excess contact liquid accumulating in the suction lines or in the suction pump is eliminated and the associated disadvantages can no longer occur.
Als Materialien für die Schaumstoffeinsätze 3, 9 bis 12 und 29 werden schaumfähige, weichelastische Kunststoffe verwendet.Foamable, soft-elastic plastics are used as materials for the foam inserts 3, 9 to 12 and 29.
Unter Schaumstoffen versteht man nach DIN 7626/1 einen künstlich hergestellten, spezifisch leichten Werkstoff mit zelliger Struktur. Die Eigenschaften speziell der Schaumkunststoffe werden sowohl durch die Art der Grundmaterialien wie durch die Porenstruktur bestimmt. Bei geschlossenzelligen Schaumstoffen sind die einzelnen Luft- oder Gasbläschen gegeneinander abgeschlossen, während sie bei offenzelligen Schaumstoffen untereinander in Verbindung stehen. Dazwischen liegen mit kontinuierlichem Übergang von der einen Gruppe zur anderen Gruppe die gemischtzelligen Schaumstoffe. In der Praxis spricht man eher von vorwiegend offenporigen oder vorwiegend geschlossenporigen Schaumstoffen. Das Porenvolumen, d.,h. der prozentuale Volumenanteil der Bläschen (Vakuolen) vom Gesamtvolumen, beträgt im allgemeinen immer über 50 % und geht bis 99 % ; es ist eine wesentliche signifikante Kenngröße für die mechanischen Eigenschaften des Schaumstoffes. Je nach Herstellungsart, Größe des Volumenanteils und Basismaterials verfügt man dementsprechend über eine Reihe verschiedenartiger Schaumstoffe, die von sprödhart über zähhart bis weichelastisch führt. Für die erfindungs-gemäße Verwendung als leitender Einsatz für Elektro-den werden weichelastische Schaumstoffe benötigt; als Maß für die Weichheit, d.h. die flexiblen Eigenschaften der Schaumstoffe, wird zweckmäßigerweise die sog. Stauchhärte nach DIN 53577 ermittelt. Die Stauchhärte ist als die zu einer festgelegten Verformung (im allgemeinen 40 %) beim Belastungsvorgang ermittelte Druckspannung definiert; sie wird in Kilo-Pascal (kPa) oder Newton pro mm (1 kPa = 0,001 N/mm2) gemessen.According to DIN 7626/1, foams are an artificially produced, specifically light material with a cellular structure. The properties of foam plastics in particular are determined both by the type of base materials and by the pore structure. In the case of closed-cell foams, the individual air or gas bubbles are sealed off from one another, while in the case of open-cell foams they are connected to one another. In between there are the mixed-cell foams with a continuous transition from one group to the other. In practice, one speaks primarily of open-pore or predominantly closed-pore foams. The pore volume, i.e. the percentage volume of the bubbles (vacuoles) of the total volume is generally always over 50% and goes up to 99%; it is an essential significant parameter for the mechanical properties of the foam. Depending on the type of manufacture, size of the volume fraction and base material, you have a number of different types of foam, from brittle to hard tough and soft to elastic. For the use according to the invention as a conductive insert for electrodes, flexible foams are required; the so-called compression hardness according to DIN 53577 is expediently determined as a measure of the softness, ie the flexible properties of the foams. The compression hardness is defined as the compressive stress determined to a defined deformation (generally 40%) during the loading process; it is measured in kilo-Pascal (kPa) or Newton per mm (1 kPa = 0.001 N / mm 2 ).
Bei der Herstellung von leitfähigen Schaumstoffen lassen sich zwei Gruppen unterscheiden:
- Die erste Gruppe sind die überwiegend offenporigen Schaumstoffe. Diese werden beispielsweise aus Polyurethanen, wie Polyester und Polyäther, Polyäthylenen, Polyvinylchloriden oder Polyamiden als Basismaterial aufgeschäumt und anschließend in den offenen Poren beleitfähigt. Dafür wird ein elektrisch leitender Lack, vorzugsweise auf Kohlenstoffbasis (sog. Coatings), in die Schaumstoffe eingebracht, so daß leitfähige Teilchen an den Zellwänden haften bleiben. Insgesamt ergibt sich dadurch eine integrale Leitfähigkeit des Schaumstoffes; der spezielle Wert der elektrischen Leitfähigkeit bzw. spezifische Widerstand ergibt sich dabei aus dem Verhältnis der mit Lack beschichteten Grenzflächen der Poren zum Gesamtvolumen des Schaumstoffes. Als Parameter geht also wesentlich das bei der Herstellung des Schaumstoffes gezielt beeinflußbare Porenvolumen ein. Andererseits bestimmen - wie oben erwähnt - genau diese Parameter auch die Weichheit bzw. Flexibilität des Schaumstoffes. Die so auf Polyurethan-, Polyäthylen-, Polyvinylchlorid- und Polyamid-Basis hergestellten Schaumstoffe weisen einen spezifischen elektrischen Widerstand im Bereich kleiner als 2000 Ohm cm und eine Stauchhärte von 1 bis 20 kPa auf. Dabei wird der spezifische Widerstand in Anlehnung an DIN 53482 und die Stauchhärte nach DIN 53577 gemessen.
- The first group are the mostly open-pore foams. These are foamed, for example, from polyurethanes, such as polyesters and polyethers, polyethylenes, polyvinyl chlorides or polyamides as the base material and then conductive in the open pores. For this purpose, an electrically conductive lacquer, preferably based on carbon (so-called coatings), is introduced into the foams, so that conductive particles adhere to the cell walls. Overall, this results in an integral conductivity of the foam; the special value of the electrical conductivity or specific resistance results from the ratio of the lacquer-coated interfaces of the pores to the total volume of the foam. The pore volume that can be specifically influenced during the production of the foam is therefore a key parameter. On the other hand - as mentioned above - these parameters determine the softness or flexibility of the foam. The foams produced in this way based on polyurethane, polyethylene, polyvinyl chloride and polyamide have a specific electrical Resistance in the range less than 2000 ohm cm and a compression hardness of 1 to 20 kPa. The specific resistance is measured based on DIN 53482 and the compression hardness according to DIN 53577.
Die zweite Gruppe von Schaumstoffen kann schon durch dispergierte leitfähige Teilchen bereits als Ausgangslösung elektrisch leitend gemacht werden. Als Basismaterialien hierfür können sowohl die obengenannten Stoffe, die überwiegend offenporige Schaumstoffe bilden als auch solche Stoffe, die überwiegend geschlossenporige Schaumstoffe bilden, verwendet werden.The second group of foams can already be made electrically conductive as a starting solution by dispersed conductive particles. Both the abovementioned substances, which predominantly form open-pore foams, and such substances, which predominantly form closed-pore foams, can be used as base materials for this.
Beispielsweise werden bei Silikonkautschuk als Basismaterial Graphitteilchen dispergiert. Es sind leitfähige Silikonkautschuke mit spezifischen Widerständen kleiner als 20 Ohm cm bekannt. Solche Kunst-Kautschuke können geschäumt werden. Ein geschlossenporiger Schaumstoff auf Silikonbasis hat wegen der glatten Oberflächen für die erfindungsgemäße Anwendung bei Elektroden sogar Vorteile; er braucht nicht in einem separaten Verfahrensschritt an der Oberfläche unter Porenverschluß glatt gemacht zu werden. Die Weichheit bzw. die elastischen Eigenschaften eines so hergestellten Schaumstoffs hängen wiederum im wesentlichen vom.Porenvolumen ab. Im gewissen Maße werden auch noch die Menge und Große der im Basismaterial dispergierten elektrisch leitenden Teilchen die flexiblen Eigenschaften beeinflussen. Insgesamt haben zwar die so hergestellten Schaumstoffe einen höheren spezifischen elektrischen Widerstand als das leitfähige Basismaterial; sie liegen aber bezügliGh der elektrischen Eigenschaften günstiger als die beleitfähigen Schaumstoffe.For example, with silicone rubber, graphite particles are dispersed as the base material. Conductive silicone rubbers with specific resistances of less than 20 ohm cm are known. Such synthetic rubbers can be foamed. A closed-cell foam based on silicone even has advantages because of the smooth surfaces for the use according to the invention in electrodes; it does not need to be smoothed on the surface with a pore seal in a separate process step. The softness or the elastic properties of a foam produced in this way in turn essentially depend on the pore volume. To a certain extent, the amount and size of the electrically conductive particles dispersed in the base material will also influence the flexible properties. Overall, the foams produced in this way have a higher specific electrical resistance than the conductive base material; However, in terms of electrical properties, they are cheaper than the conductive foams.
Claims (24)
Applications Claiming Priority (8)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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DE2735050A DE2735050C3 (en) | 1977-08-03 | 1977-08-03 | electrode |
DE2735050 | 1977-08-03 | ||
DE2735041 | 1977-08-03 | ||
DE19772735041 DE2735041A1 (en) | 1977-08-03 | 1977-08-03 | Contact electrode for bio-electrics - for supplying signals to or collecting from the body |
DE19782831099 DE2831099A1 (en) | 1978-07-14 | 1978-07-14 | Contact electrode for bio-electrics - for supplying signals to or collecting from the body |
DE2831109 | 1978-07-14 | ||
DE2831099 | 1978-07-14 | ||
DE19782831109 DE2831109A1 (en) | 1978-07-14 | 1978-07-14 | Contact electrode for bio-electrics - for supplying signals to or collecting from the body |
Publications (2)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
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EP0000759A1 true EP0000759A1 (en) | 1979-02-21 |
EP0000759B1 EP0000759B1 (en) | 1981-09-02 |
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Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
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EP78100552A Expired EP0000759B1 (en) | 1977-08-03 | 1978-07-31 | Electrode |
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DE (1) | DE2861010D1 (en) |
Cited By (29)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
EP0029245A1 (en) * | 1979-11-20 | 1981-05-27 | Siemens Aktiengesellschaft | Arrangement for supplying or picking up electrical signals |
US4381789A (en) * | 1979-11-20 | 1983-05-03 | Siemens Aktiengesellschaft | Electrode system |
US4458696A (en) * | 1979-08-07 | 1984-07-10 | Minnesota Mining And Manufacturing Company | T.E.N.S. Electrode |
WO1987001024A1 (en) * | 1985-08-21 | 1987-02-26 | Spring Creek Institute, Inc. | Dry electrode system, disposable electrode pad, and amplifier circuit for detection of biopotentials |
EP0273167A1 (en) * | 1986-11-26 | 1988-07-06 | Siemens Aktiengesellschaft | Conductive intermediate layer for electrodes |
US4763659A (en) * | 1985-08-21 | 1988-08-16 | Spring Creek Institute, Inc. | Dry electrode system for detection of biopotentials |
EP0289906A1 (en) * | 1987-05-08 | 1988-11-09 | Siemens Aktiengesellschaft | Low-pressure nozzle for suction electrodes |
US4865039A (en) * | 1985-08-21 | 1989-09-12 | Spring Creek Institute | Dry electrode system for detection of biopotentials and dry electrode for making electrical and mechanical connection to a living body |
FR2651989A1 (en) * | 1989-05-10 | 1991-03-22 | Archeny Jean Pierre | Covering, paddings or mat for an operating table and radiology bench which conduct electricity and are permeable to X-rays, and their medical use |
US5211174A (en) * | 1990-09-14 | 1993-05-18 | Physiometrix, Inc. | Low impedance, low durometer, dry conforming contact element |
US5269810A (en) * | 1992-06-19 | 1993-12-14 | W. L. Gore & Associates, Inc. | Patch electrode |
EP0788329A1 (en) * | 1994-10-24 | 1997-08-13 | TRANSSCAN RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT CO. LTD. | Impedance imaging devices and multi-element probe |
US5803911A (en) * | 1995-11-06 | 1998-09-08 | Colin Corporation | Electrocardiographic waveform detection system |
US6055452A (en) * | 1994-10-24 | 2000-04-25 | Transcan Research & Development Co., Ltd. | Tissue characterization based on impedance images and on impedance measurements |
US6154669A (en) * | 1998-11-06 | 2000-11-28 | Capita Systems, Inc. | Headset for EEG measurements |
US6345192B1 (en) | 1998-09-08 | 2002-02-05 | Venturi Medical Systems, Llc | Electrode structure for electric contactor |
EP1212981A1 (en) * | 2000-12-08 | 2002-06-12 | Tanita Corporation | Resinous cover comprising electrodes for use in bioelectrical impedance measuring apparatus |
US6560480B1 (en) | 1994-10-24 | 2003-05-06 | Transscan Medical Ltd. | Localization of anomalies in tissue and guidance of invasive tools based on impedance imaging |
US6678552B2 (en) | 1994-10-24 | 2004-01-13 | Transscan Medical Ltd. | Tissue characterization based on impedance images and on impedance measurements |
US7054677B2 (en) | 2002-04-16 | 2006-05-30 | Venturi Medical Systems | Venturi ECG electrode system |
US10173060B2 (en) | 2014-06-02 | 2019-01-08 | Cala Health, Inc. | Methods for peripheral nerve stimulation |
US10625074B2 (en) | 2013-01-21 | 2020-04-21 | Cala Health, Inc. | Devices and methods for controlling tremor |
US10765856B2 (en) | 2015-06-10 | 2020-09-08 | Cala Health, Inc. | Systems and methods for peripheral nerve stimulation to treat tremor with detachable therapy and monitoring units |
US10814130B2 (en) | 2016-07-08 | 2020-10-27 | Cala Health, Inc. | Dry electrodes for transcutaneous nerve stimulation |
US11331480B2 (en) | 2017-04-03 | 2022-05-17 | Cala Health, Inc. | Systems, methods and devices for peripheral neuromodulation for treating diseases related to overactive bladder |
US11344722B2 (en) | 2016-01-21 | 2022-05-31 | Cala Health, Inc. | Systems, methods and devices for peripheral neuromodulation for treating diseases related to overactive bladder |
US11596785B2 (en) | 2015-09-23 | 2023-03-07 | Cala Health, Inc. | Systems and methods for peripheral nerve stimulation in the finger or hand to treat hand tremors |
US11857778B2 (en) | 2018-01-17 | 2024-01-02 | Cala Health, Inc. | Systems and methods for treating inflammatory bowel disease through peripheral nerve stimulation |
US11890468B1 (en) | 2019-10-03 | 2024-02-06 | Cala Health, Inc. | Neurostimulation systems with event pattern detection and classification |
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US3696807A (en) * | 1970-02-13 | 1972-10-10 | Mdm Corp | Medical electrode with relatively rigid electrolyte cup |
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Cited By (41)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US4458696A (en) * | 1979-08-07 | 1984-07-10 | Minnesota Mining And Manufacturing Company | T.E.N.S. Electrode |
EP0029245A1 (en) * | 1979-11-20 | 1981-05-27 | Siemens Aktiengesellschaft | Arrangement for supplying or picking up electrical signals |
US4381789A (en) * | 1979-11-20 | 1983-05-03 | Siemens Aktiengesellschaft | Electrode system |
WO1987001024A1 (en) * | 1985-08-21 | 1987-02-26 | Spring Creek Institute, Inc. | Dry electrode system, disposable electrode pad, and amplifier circuit for detection of biopotentials |
US4669479A (en) * | 1985-08-21 | 1987-06-02 | Spring Creek Institute, Inc. | Dry electrode system for detection of biopotentials |
US4763659A (en) * | 1985-08-21 | 1988-08-16 | Spring Creek Institute, Inc. | Dry electrode system for detection of biopotentials |
US4865039A (en) * | 1985-08-21 | 1989-09-12 | Spring Creek Institute | Dry electrode system for detection of biopotentials and dry electrode for making electrical and mechanical connection to a living body |
EP0273167A1 (en) * | 1986-11-26 | 1988-07-06 | Siemens Aktiengesellschaft | Conductive intermediate layer for electrodes |
EP0289906A1 (en) * | 1987-05-08 | 1988-11-09 | Siemens Aktiengesellschaft | Low-pressure nozzle for suction electrodes |
FR2651989A1 (en) * | 1989-05-10 | 1991-03-22 | Archeny Jean Pierre | Covering, paddings or mat for an operating table and radiology bench which conduct electricity and are permeable to X-rays, and their medical use |
US5211174A (en) * | 1990-09-14 | 1993-05-18 | Physiometrix, Inc. | Low impedance, low durometer, dry conforming contact element |
US5269810A (en) * | 1992-06-19 | 1993-12-14 | W. L. Gore & Associates, Inc. | Patch electrode |
EP0788329A1 (en) * | 1994-10-24 | 1997-08-13 | TRANSSCAN RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT CO. LTD. | Impedance imaging devices and multi-element probe |
EP0788329A4 (en) * | 1994-10-24 | 1999-11-10 | Transscan Res & Dev Co Ltd | Impedance imaging devices and multi-element probe |
US6055452A (en) * | 1994-10-24 | 2000-04-25 | Transcan Research & Development Co., Ltd. | Tissue characterization based on impedance images and on impedance measurements |
US6308097B1 (en) | 1994-10-24 | 2001-10-23 | Transscan Medical Ltd. | Tissue characterization based on impedance images and on impedance measurements |
US7141019B2 (en) | 1994-10-24 | 2006-11-28 | Mirabel Medical Systems Ltd. | Tissue characterization based on impedance images and on impedance measurements |
US6421559B1 (en) | 1994-10-24 | 2002-07-16 | Transscan Medical Ltd. | Tissue characterization based on impedance images and on impedance measurements |
US6560480B1 (en) | 1994-10-24 | 2003-05-06 | Transscan Medical Ltd. | Localization of anomalies in tissue and guidance of invasive tools based on impedance imaging |
US6678552B2 (en) | 1994-10-24 | 2004-01-13 | Transscan Medical Ltd. | Tissue characterization based on impedance images and on impedance measurements |
US5803911A (en) * | 1995-11-06 | 1998-09-08 | Colin Corporation | Electrocardiographic waveform detection system |
EP0876791A1 (en) * | 1995-11-06 | 1998-11-11 | Colin Corporation | Electrocardiographic waveform detection system |
US6345192B1 (en) | 1998-09-08 | 2002-02-05 | Venturi Medical Systems, Llc | Electrode structure for electric contactor |
US6154669A (en) * | 1998-11-06 | 2000-11-28 | Capita Systems, Inc. | Headset for EEG measurements |
EP1212981A1 (en) * | 2000-12-08 | 2002-06-12 | Tanita Corporation | Resinous cover comprising electrodes for use in bioelectrical impedance measuring apparatus |
US7054677B2 (en) | 2002-04-16 | 2006-05-30 | Venturi Medical Systems | Venturi ECG electrode system |
US10625074B2 (en) | 2013-01-21 | 2020-04-21 | Cala Health, Inc. | Devices and methods for controlling tremor |
US10905879B2 (en) | 2014-06-02 | 2021-02-02 | Cala Health, Inc. | Methods for peripheral nerve stimulation |
US10173060B2 (en) | 2014-06-02 | 2019-01-08 | Cala Health, Inc. | Methods for peripheral nerve stimulation |
US10561839B2 (en) | 2014-06-02 | 2020-02-18 | Cala Health, Inc. | Systems for peripheral nerve stimulation |
US10179238B2 (en) | 2014-06-02 | 2019-01-15 | Cala Health, Inc. | Systems for peripheral nerve stimulation |
US10549093B2 (en) | 2014-06-02 | 2020-02-04 | Cala Health, Inc. | Method for peripheral nerve stimulation |
US10960207B2 (en) | 2014-06-02 | 2021-03-30 | Cala Health, Inc. | Systems for peripheral nerve stimulation |
US10765856B2 (en) | 2015-06-10 | 2020-09-08 | Cala Health, Inc. | Systems and methods for peripheral nerve stimulation to treat tremor with detachable therapy and monitoring units |
US11596785B2 (en) | 2015-09-23 | 2023-03-07 | Cala Health, Inc. | Systems and methods for peripheral nerve stimulation in the finger or hand to treat hand tremors |
US11344722B2 (en) | 2016-01-21 | 2022-05-31 | Cala Health, Inc. | Systems, methods and devices for peripheral neuromodulation for treating diseases related to overactive bladder |
US11918806B2 (en) | 2016-01-21 | 2024-03-05 | Cala Health, Inc. | Systems, methods and devices for peripheral neuromodulation of the leg |
US10814130B2 (en) | 2016-07-08 | 2020-10-27 | Cala Health, Inc. | Dry electrodes for transcutaneous nerve stimulation |
US11331480B2 (en) | 2017-04-03 | 2022-05-17 | Cala Health, Inc. | Systems, methods and devices for peripheral neuromodulation for treating diseases related to overactive bladder |
US11857778B2 (en) | 2018-01-17 | 2024-01-02 | Cala Health, Inc. | Systems and methods for treating inflammatory bowel disease through peripheral nerve stimulation |
US11890468B1 (en) | 2019-10-03 | 2024-02-06 | Cala Health, Inc. | Neurostimulation systems with event pattern detection and classification |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
DE2861010D1 (en) | 1981-11-26 |
EP0000759B1 (en) | 1981-09-02 |
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