WO2018178476A1 - Method for testing the correct operation of electrodes in electrostimulation garments and device for carrying out said method - Google Patents

Method for testing the correct operation of electrodes in electrostimulation garments and device for carrying out said method Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2018178476A1
WO2018178476A1 PCT/ES2018/070264 ES2018070264W WO2018178476A1 WO 2018178476 A1 WO2018178476 A1 WO 2018178476A1 ES 2018070264 W ES2018070264 W ES 2018070264W WO 2018178476 A1 WO2018178476 A1 WO 2018178476A1
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WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
electrodes
garment
garments
electrostimulation
checking
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PCT/ES2018/070264
Other languages
Spanish (es)
French (fr)
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WO2018178476A4 (en
Inventor
Javier CASTELLO GARCIA
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Dkd Tech & Health, S.L.
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Publication of WO2018178476A1 publication Critical patent/WO2018178476A1/en
Publication of WO2018178476A4 publication Critical patent/WO2018178476A4/en

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Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A41—WEARING APPAREL
    • A41D—OUTERWEAR; PROTECTIVE GARMENTS; ACCESSORIES
    • A41D27/00—Details of garments or of their making
    • 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
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61N—ELECTROTHERAPY; MAGNETOTHERAPY; RADIATION THERAPY; ULTRASOUND THERAPY
    • A61N1/00—Electrotherapy; Circuits therefor
    • A61N1/02—Details
    • A61N1/08—Arrangements or circuits for monitoring, protecting, controlling or indicating
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61N—ELECTROTHERAPY; MAGNETOTHERAPY; RADIATION THERAPY; ULTRASOUND THERAPY
    • A61N1/00—Electrotherapy; Circuits therefor
    • A61N1/18—Applying electric currents by contact electrodes
    • A61N1/32—Applying electric currents by contact electrodes alternating or intermittent currents
    • A61N1/36—Applying electric currents by contact electrodes alternating or intermittent currents for stimulation

Definitions

  • the present invention consists of a method by which a verification of the state of electrostimulation garments, such as vests or other body adaptation, is obtained, said garments being used in the so-called global EMS.
  • Electro-stimulation consists in the application of electrodes in areas of the body through which a certain electric current is passed continuously or cyclically, normally adjustable in intensity, so that this current produces in the muscles to which more or more contractions are applied less intense depending on the intensity that is passed through said electrodes.
  • the global EMS acts on 10 or more muscle groups, where more than 300 muscles are stimulated simultaneously, these electrodes are designed by the manufacturer with different shapes and sizes, these being of great importance for the correct distribution of the current to Apply. It is common use that the electrodes are arranged on the inside of garments specifically designed for use, so that the location of said electrodes is made to coincide, after wetting, with the area of the skin suitable for the stimulation of certain muscles.
  • the garments or electrodes are provided with a connector and wiring to connect to the generator of the impulses of the electric current.
  • the current density per unit area will depend on the state of the electrode. If, for example, half of an electrode has no contact because the conductive filaments have broken, the current density in the other half of the electrode will be double generating an uncontrolled muscle stimulus.
  • the electrodes are in optimal condition, and the entire surface of said electrodes is conductive, transmitting the current to the skin, and to the corresponding muscle.
  • the electrodes deteriorate over time, the conductive surface being modified, and therefore the current density and the expected muscle contraction with respect to a certain intensity.
  • the programmed setpoint intensity, intended for a certain current density at each electrode does not vary, because the corresponding control unit "does not know" that there is a deterioration.
  • the current density increases locally, even very significantly, so that the area to be electrostimulated has a different surface, with a different current density, and with a different muscle contraction than desired.
  • This error can occur, as for the point of application, and can occur as a difference between two symmetric twin electrodes: left and right part in the same garment, so that if one of them has partially deteriorated conductive tissue and the symmetric acting it will correctly produce burns at best, but at worst, a need to raise the setpoint intensity to reach the intended stimulus levels.
  • electromusculation electrodes have their performance in two parts of the muscle, usually at the motor point and in the belly of the muscle, hence the shape and size that the manufacturer uses in the design of each electrode.
  • a poor distribution of the active conductive mesh results in a lack of control over the impulse with the aforementioned consequences, since overstimulation arises when the intensity must be raised to generate muscle contraction through the conductivity of the added moisture, and in the symmetric part this need does not occur, generating a greater contraction and, consequently, a decompensation in muscular work which would increase the CPK levels released by the electrode stimulated muscle that worked properly.
  • the present invention consists of a method for checking the correct operation of electrodes in electrostimulation garments, designed to solve the problem described, this part not knowing any known method for capturing by means of a test the correct state of operation of electrostimulation electrodes, beyond mere manual checking (by resting your hand on the electrode to feel the electrical impulse).
  • the present invention allows the identification of the operating conditions of said electrodes, without risk to the users or the electrodes themselves.
  • the present invention also consists of a device for carrying out the method indicated above.
  • Electro-stimulation electrodes particularly vests or elastic suits
  • no means have been described by which a malfunction of the electrodes can be identified, nor a possible detection of excess CPK isoenzyme, whose Consequences can affect the brain and kidneys, as described in different articles on this isoenzyme.
  • the present invention consists of a method for checking the correct operation of the electrodes of an electrostimulation garment, by detecting the conductivity of the conductive tissue on its entire surface quickly and effectively.
  • the method comprises:
  • the electrical pulse is one of the following types (sinusoidal, rectangular, Faradic, triangular, progressive, ...); in particular it is sinusoidal.
  • the maximum voltage of the electric pulse will be the minimum that of a correct reading result; it has been proven that a value of 9V gives a reliable result; however, any value of the electric voltage that meets the object of the invention must be considered within its scope; o Also, it has been proven that a frequency of 100Hz to 500Hz generates values that provide reliability to the reading; also, any value above or below these that meets the intended purpose must be considered within the scope of the invention; The use of these parameters, well below the usage parameters, up to 180V, means that no deterioration should be considered due to the tests;
  • said sensor or antenna is preferably provided with an insulating coating to the current, but permeable to the radio field, the application of the sensor or antenna must be carried out dry;
  • test phase it also includes the step of comparing the test values with the reference values.
  • the garment or electrode will be valid and may be used; on the contrary, if the electrode or at least one of the electrodes of the garment are outside said range, the electrode must be rejected, and the garment, if necessary, repaired or removed.
  • the measurement should preferably be performed dry, to avoid the electrical conductivity and the current flow that would alter the measurement and provide erroneous values.
  • the electrodes and / or garments will be correctly identified, for example, by means of a control label provided with an identification code or number. This allows to determine the age of the garment or electrode, the amount of uses made, the evolution of the variation of values with respect to those of reference, and ultimately facilitate the decision making of repair or rejection even when the measured parameters are within the limits of the acceptable range, that is, very close to the unacceptable one.
  • the invention also relates to a device for testing according to the method described above.
  • the device comprises:
  • a connector of said source to be connected to the connector of an electrode or a garment provided with electrodes
  • a receiver provided with a radio field sensor or antenna reading at different points of the electrode or continuously along the surface of the electrode;
  • the collector is provided with an insulating coating of the electric current, but permeable to the radio field.
  • a hanger or table can be used as a support for the garment, the measurement being carried out manually in the areas provided with the electrodes. And since it is also possible to verify on the external side of the garment, in a timely manner when the user perceives something strange, you can go to measure the stimulus in the corresponding part, being able to discard the garment at that time if the error has arisen or failure so ensured.
  • the receiver is constituted by a pick-up dummy to which the garment is placed and attached, being in this case the dummy a collector with multiple catchment areas;
  • the dummy may be provided with an insulating coating on all or part of its surface.
  • the dummy is compressible and / or is provided with expansive means, for example, by means of a core or an inflatable coating, which ensures a correct positioning of the sensors or antennas with respect to the corresponding electrodes, so that when the The surface of the dummy is located at a minimum distance from the electrodes of the garment.
  • the dummy is compressible or expansive allows it to be used for different sizes without altering the measurement values.
  • the device can be connected to a computer, so that the readings made in each garment are stored over time, allowing to know its history and evolution of its degree of deterioration.
  • Figure 1 shows a schematic view of a user using an electrostimulation garment
  • Figure 2 shows a schematic view similar to the previous one, with the user at rest;
  • Figure 3 shows a schematic view of the garment, provided with electrical connectors and electrostimulation electrodes;
  • Figure 4 shows a schematic view of the checking device, according to an embodiment in which said device is in the form of a dummy;
  • Figure 5 shows a schematic view of the device of Figure 4, which has the garment in place;
  • Figure 6 shows a schematic view of the set of elements comprising the device for manual realization.
  • a method that allows to verify the correct operation of electrodes in electrostimulation garments. According to said method, the following operations are performed:
  • test stand is a compliant dummy is described as a device of the invention, fastened of the garment on said dummy and expansion of the dummy until the sensor elements thereof are in contact with the electrodes of the garment; otherwise, manual placement of the reading device (the antenna) of the invention on each of the electrodes.
  • the reference values will be differentiated according to current measurement, and reference measurements made outside the garment (through the tissue that separates the electrode sensor), or according to current measurement and reference measurements;
  • the test be carried out with the dry garment.
  • Each garment will have a "token" of calibration, and of the acceptable values, be it the reading made from the inside (in contact with the electrode) or from the outside (through the fabric that forms the garment).
  • the method of the invention comprises a previous general stage of calibration of each type garment, and establishment of the reference values and / or acceptable values, both on the inside and on the outside. Also beforehand, each of the items being tested is identified by means of the corresponding control means (RFID, coded textile label, ).
  • Optional but conveniently includes the method of the invention the registration of the values obtained for the garment to record its traceability, to know not only the current state, but to track that will allow to assess the quality of the piece, its duration, the evolution of its deterioration, etc.
  • this refers to a device for carrying out the method described above.
  • Said device comprises the following elements: ⁇ A generator (21) or power supply of a pulsating electrical signal provided with the corresponding generator circuit (29); preferably the generated pulse of sinusoidal type;
  • a receiving device (8.22), provided with a receiving circuit (32) and at least one sensor or antenna (9.28) for reading the radio field at different points of the electrode (5) continuously along the electrode surface;
  • the receiver is formed by a body provided with the following elements: o Light indicators (25) or Acoustic indicators (35), or Display or information display (26) or Connection switch, for example, by means of a push button (27) • A field intensity measuring circuit read by the sensor or antenna (28).
  • the generator will normally be connected to the receiver, for example, by a spiral cable (23), or by wireless means.
  • the generator (21) has a connector (30) for its cable connection (23) with the receiver (22), and the receiver (22) has a connector (34) for its cable connection (23) with the generator (21).
  • the device of the invention can be connected to a computer via a cable connection via the corresponding connector, or wireless.
  • Both the generator and the receiver can be powered by cable or by an electric accumulator, in this case provided with the corresponding circuits and / or charging connectors (31,33).
  • the antenna (28) of the receiver (22) is provided with an insulating coating of the electric current, but permeable to the radio field.
  • the receiver (21) is constituted by a dummy (8) preferably expandable, by mechanical, hydraulic or pneumatic means, to which the garment (1) is placed and attached, being also in in this case, the dummy is a receiver (9) with multiple pickup zones corresponding to each of the electrodes (5) of the garment (1), or with a continuous pickup zone along the entire surface of the dummy;
  • the dummy (8) may be provided with an insulating coating on all or part of its surface.
  • the surface will preferably consist of a soft material, which facilitates contact with the corresponding electrodes (5) of the garment (1).
  • the dummy (8) is expandable or compressible, and / or is provided with expansive means, for example, by means of a core or an inflatable coating, which ensures a correct positioning of the sensor or antenna with respect to the corresponding electrodes, of so that when expanding the surface of the dummy is located at a minimum distance from the electrodes (5) of the garment (1).
  • the dummy is compressible or expansive allows it to be used for different sizes without altering the measurement values. This simplifies the verification task.
  • the generating device (21) and / or the receiving device (22) can be connected to a computer, so that the readings made in each garment are stored over time, allowing to know its history and evolution of its degree of deterioration

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for testing the correct operation of electrodes in electrostimulation garments and to a device for carrying out said method. The method comprises the operations of: optionally placing the garment on a test support; connecting an electrical source or electrical generator to connectors of the garment; generating an electrical pulse that transmits electricity to the connected electrodes, with a voltage, normally, of up to 9 V, and with a pulse frequency, normally, of up to 500 KHz; applying to the external surface of the electrodes a radio frequency sensor or antenna that reads the signal from the electrical field generated by the electrical source; and comparing the values from the measurement with reference values to determine if the garment is in a correct state or if same is in an incorrect state and needs to be repaired or discarded. The device comprises a generator (21) for generating a pulsing electrical signal, a connector (30) for connecting said generator (21) to the garment (1), a receiver device (22) and a circuit (32) for measuring the captured signal.

Description

MÉTODO PARA LA COMPROBACIÓN DEL FUNCIONAMIENTO CORRECTO DE ELECTRODOS EN PRENDAS DE ELECTROESTIMULACIÓN Y DISPOSITIVO PARA LLEVAR A CABO DICHO M ÉTODO  METHOD FOR CHECKING THE CORRECT OPERATION OF ELECTRODES IN ELECTRO-STIMULATION AND DEVICE CLOTHES TO CARRY OUT SAID M ETHOD
El presente invento consiste en un método por el cual se obtiene una verificación del estado de las prendas de electroestimulación, tales como chalecos u otros de adaptación al cuerpo, siendo dichas prendas utilizadas en la denominada EMS global. The present invention consists of a method by which a verification of the state of electrostimulation garments, such as vests or other body adaptation, is obtained, said garments being used in the so-called global EMS.
La electroestimulación consiste en la aplicación de electrodos en zonas del cuerpo por los que se hace pasar una cierta corriente eléctrica de modo continuo o cíclico, normalmente regulable en intensidad, de modo que dicha corriente produce en los músculos a los que se aplica contracciones más o menos intensas en función de36 la intensidad que se hace pasar por dichos electrodos. Electro-stimulation consists in the application of electrodes in areas of the body through which a certain electric current is passed continuously or cyclically, normally adjustable in intensity, so that this current produces in the muscles to which more or more contractions are applied less intense depending on the intensity that is passed through said electrodes.
En la EMS global se actúa sobre 10 o más grupos musculares, donde se estimulan más de 300 músculos de manera simultánea, estos electrodos se diseñan por el fabricante con diferentes formas y tamaños, teniendo estos una gran importancia para la correcta distribución de la corriente a aplicar. Es uso corriente que los electrodos estén dispuestos en la parte interior de prendas específicamente concebidas para su utilización, de modo que la ubicación de dichos electrodos se hace coincidir, previa humectación, con la zona de la piel adecuada para la estimulación de determinados músculos. The global EMS acts on 10 or more muscle groups, where more than 300 muscles are stimulated simultaneously, these electrodes are designed by the manufacturer with different shapes and sizes, these being of great importance for the correct distribution of the current to Apply. It is common use that the electrodes are arranged on the inside of garments specifically designed for use, so that the location of said electrodes is made to coincide, after wetting, with the area of the skin suitable for the stimulation of certain muscles.
Las prendas o los electrodos están provistos de un conector y cableado para conectar con el generador de los impulsos de la corriente eléctrica. The garments or electrodes are provided with a connector and wiring to connect to the generator of the impulses of the electric current.
En función de la intensidad de la corriente, del tiempo durante el cual el usuario está sometido a ella, y del área de contacto del electrodo, pueden producirse lesiones en la zona de la piel en contacto con el electrodo, particularmente quemaduras. La densidad de corriente por unidad de superficie, por tanto, dependerá del estado del electrodo. Si, por ejemplo, la mitad de un electrodo no tiene contacto por haberse roto los filamentos conductores, la densidad de corriente en la otra mitad del electrodo será el doble generando un estímulo muscular descontrolado. Cuando las prendas son nuevas, los electrodos están en óptimas condiciones, y toda la superficie de dichos electrodos es conductora, transmitiendo de manera adecuada la corriente a la piel, y al músculo correspondiente. Depending on the intensity of the current, the time during which the user is subjected to it, and the contact area of the electrode, injuries may occur in the area of the skin in contact with the electrode, particularly burns. The current density per unit area, therefore, will depend on the state of the electrode. If, for example, half of an electrode has no contact because the conductive filaments have broken, the current density in the other half of the electrode will be double generating an uncontrolled muscle stimulus. When the clothes are new, the electrodes are in optimal condition, and the entire surface of said electrodes is conductive, transmitting the current to the skin, and to the corresponding muscle.
Así, para que la utilización continuada de las prendas, no produzcan daños al usuario, es necesario que haya un reparto de la corriente en la superficie completa del electrodo, es decir, que la densidad de corriente por unidad de superficie esté en unos valores aceptables. Thus, so that the continuous use of the garments does not cause damage to the user, it is necessary that there is a distribution of the current on the entire surface of the electrode, that is, that the current density per unit area is at acceptable values .
Sin embargo, debido al movimiento realizado en las prendas que incluye el doblado para ser guardadas, plegado para su transporte, la conexión y desconexión del cableado para su higienización y el propio movimiento que realiza el usuario con la prenda puesta, los electrodos se van deteriorando a lo largo del tiempo, modificándose la superficie conductora, y por tanto la densidad de corriente y la contracción muscular esperada respecto a una determinada intensidad. However, due to the movement made in the garments that includes the folding to be stored, folded for transport, the connection and disconnection of the wiring for sanitation and the movement that the user makes with the garment on, the electrodes deteriorate over time, the conductive surface being modified, and therefore the current density and the expected muscle contraction with respect to a certain intensity.
En una breve prospección en Internet, se encuentran comentarios en distintos foros que critican negativamente este medio de obtener un ejercicio de alta eficacia en la musculación, y no sin justificación. In a brief survey on the Internet, comments are found in different forums that critically criticize this means of obtaining a high-efficiency exercise in bodybuilding, and not without justification.
Las razones alegadas, en muchas ocasiones obedecen a la consecuencia de un mal funcionamiento por hallarse alguno de los electrodos en estado de deterioro. Deterioro se considera en aquel electrodo que no reparte la corriente que constituye el impulso de manera uniforme en toda su superficie de contacto. La actividad muscular, toda ella, la derivada de una actividad sedentaria tanto como la determinada por una práctica deportiva, genera una isoenzima denominada creatininfosfoquinasa que se conoce como CPK (así quedará nombrada luego) cuyo exceso produce en condiciones de práctica muscular voluntaria (carrera, escalada y otras prácticas deportivas), una información que a través de la sangre llega al cerebro, que informa del cansancio, y exige a los músculos una menor actividad o incluso detenerla. Es un estímulo natural frente a la actividad. The alleged reasons, in many cases, are due to the consequence of a malfunction because some of the electrodes are in a state of deterioration. Deterioration is considered in that electrode that does not distribute the current that constitutes the pulse evenly throughout its contact surface. The muscular activity, all of it, the one derived from a sedentary activity as much as that determined by a sports practice, generates an isoenzyme called creatinine phosphokinase which is known as CPK (thus it will be named later) whose excess produces in conditions of voluntary muscular practice (career, climbing and other sports practices), an information that through the blood reaches the brain, which informs of fatigue, and requires the muscles less activity or even stop it. It is a natural stimulus against activity.
En los casos en que el músculo se activa mediante un impulso eléctrico, se produce también una generación de dicha isoenzima CPK, y sin embargo, el cansancio que puede darse en otras prácticas, no supone una reducción de la actividad, pues el impulso eléctrico provoca la actividad muscular según la programación, es decir, la recepción de impulsos eléctricos, y no de la voluntad del que recibe dicho impulso. In cases where the muscle is activated by an electrical impulse, there is also a generation of said CPK isoenzyme, and yet the fatigue that can occur in other In practice, it does not imply a reduction in activity, since the electrical impulse causes muscular activity according to the programming, that is, the reception of electrical impulses, and not of the will from which the impulse receives.
En la electromusculación, controlada, practicada mediante unos parámetros de seguridad, y criterios de estabilidad, se producen más isoenzimas CPK que las que podrían darse en cualquiera de las actividades voluntarias debido a la gran cantidad de músculos que se estimulan simultáneamente. Por tanto, es especialmente importante que el entrenador tenga una adecuada formación y un preciso control sobre el estímulo aplicado, para que una sesión y su descanso no constituyen un hecho especialmente lesivo, ni suponga un riesgo para la salud. In controlled electromusculation, practiced by means of safety parameters, and stability criteria, more CPK isoenzymes are produced than those that could occur in any of the voluntary activities due to the large number of muscles that are stimulated simultaneously. Therefore, it is especially important that the coach has adequate training and precise control over the stimulus applied, so that a session and its rest do not constitute a particularly damaging event, nor does it pose a health risk.
El problema surge cuando el entrenador aplica más intensidad de la conveniente, o cuando la prenda de electro estimulación, que está provista de electrodos formados por un tejido de microrredes de filamentos, se deteriora, es decir, que parte de la malla conductora del tejido de microrredes de filamentos queda desconectada del circuito, aumentando así la densidad de corriente en el resto de la malla del electrodo. The problem arises when the coach applies more intensity than is convenient, or when the electro-stimulation garment, which is provided with electrodes formed by a micro-wire fabric of filaments, deteriorates, that is, that part of the conductive mesh of the fabric of Filament microgrids are disconnected from the circuit, thus increasing the current density in the rest of the electrode mesh.
En estos casos, la intensidad de consigna programada, prevista para una determinada densidad de corriente en cada electrodo, no varía, porque la unidad de control correspondiente "no sabe" que existe un deterioro. Sin embargo, la densidad de corriente aumenta localmente, incluso de manera muy significativa, con lo que la zona que se debe electroestimular tiene una superficie distinta, con una densidad de corriente distinta, y con una contracción muscular distinta a la deseada. In these cases, the programmed setpoint intensity, intended for a certain current density at each electrode, does not vary, because the corresponding control unit "does not know" that there is a deterioration. However, the current density increases locally, even very significantly, so that the area to be electrostimulated has a different surface, with a different current density, and with a different muscle contraction than desired.
Este error puede darse, en cuanto al punto de aplicación, y puede darse como diferencia entre dos electrodos gemelos simétricos: parte izquierda y parte derecha en la misma prenda, de modo que si uno de ellos tiene el tejido conductivo parcialmente deteriorado y el simétrico actuando correctamente producirá en el mejor de los casos quemaduras, pero en el peor, una necesidad de elevar la intensidad de consigna para alcanzar los niveles de estímulo pretendidos. This error can occur, as for the point of application, and can occur as a difference between two symmetric twin electrodes: left and right part in the same garment, so that if one of them has partially deteriorated conductive tissue and the symmetric acting it will correctly produce burns at best, but at worst, a need to raise the setpoint intensity to reach the intended stimulus levels.
Deberá tenerse presente que los electrodos de electromusculación tienen su actuación en dos partes del músculo, normalmente en el punto motor y en el vientre del músculo, de ahí la forma y tamaño que el fabricante usa en el diseño de cada electrodo. Una mala distribución de la malla conductora activa da lugar a un descontrol en el impulso con las consecuencias antedichas, pues la sobreestimulación surge cuando se debe elevar la intensidad para generar la contracción muscular a través de la conductividad de la humedad añadida, y en la parte simétrica no se produce esta necesidad, generando una mayor contracción y, por consiguiente, una descompensación en el trabajo muscular que aumentaría los niveles de CPK liberados por el músculo estimulado por electrodo que funcionase correctamente. It should be borne in mind that electromusculation electrodes have their performance in two parts of the muscle, usually at the motor point and in the belly of the muscle, hence the shape and size that the manufacturer uses in the design of each electrode. A poor distribution of the active conductive mesh results in a lack of control over the impulse with the aforementioned consequences, since overstimulation arises when the intensity must be raised to generate muscle contraction through the conductivity of the added moisture, and in the symmetric part this need does not occur, generating a greater contraction and, consequently, a decompensation in muscular work which would increase the CPK levels released by the electrode stimulated muscle that worked properly.
La presente invención consiste en un método para la comprobación del funcionamiento correcto de electrodos en prendas de electroestimulación, concebido para solucionar el problema descrito, no conociendo esta parte ningún método conocido para captar mediante un test el correcto estado de funcionamiento de los electrodos de electroestimulación, más allá de la mera comprobación manual (mediante el apoyo de la mano sobre el electrodo para sentir el impulso eléctrico). The present invention consists of a method for checking the correct operation of electrodes in electrostimulation garments, designed to solve the problem described, this part not knowing any known method for capturing by means of a test the correct state of operation of electrostimulation electrodes, beyond mere manual checking (by resting your hand on the electrode to feel the electrical impulse).
Mediante este método que propone esta invención, se detectan los posibles defectos de transmisión en los electrodos de electroestimulación, particularmente en las prendas de electroestimulación, determinado si son aptos para su uso, y en caso de no serlo, advirtiendo de la necesidad de su reparación o retirada del uso. Through this method proposed by this invention, possible transmission defects are detected in electrostimulation electrodes, particularly in electrostimulation garments, determined if they are suitable for use, and if not, warning of the need for repair. or withdrawal from use.
La presente invención permite la identificación de las condiciones de operación de dichos electrodos, sin riesgo para los usuarios ni los propios electrodos. The present invention allows the identification of the operating conditions of said electrodes, without risk to the users or the electrodes themselves.
Consiste también la presente invención en un dispositivo para llevar a cabo el método anteriormente indicado. The present invention also consists of a device for carrying out the method indicated above.
Estado de la técnica anterior Prior art
Se conocen distintos tipos de prendas de provistas de electrodos de electroestimulación muscular, particularmente chalecos o trajes elásticos, pero no se han descrito medios por los que pueda identificarse un malfuncionamiento de los electrodos, ni tampoco una eventual posible detección de exceso de isoenzima CPK, cuyas consecuencias pueden afectar cerebro y ríñones, tal y como sí se halla descrito en distintos artículos sobre dicha isoenzima. Existe, además de la comprobación con la palma de la mano, una práctica burda para la comprobación del estado de los electrodos que consiste en introducir las puntas de un tester o comprobador eléctrico a través de la tela de protección de la prenda, tela que aisla el contacto directo de la malla del electrodo. Esta práctica tiene dos consecuencias adversas, una primera consiste en que la colocación de las puntas del tester tiende a producir la rotura de filamentos y el deterioro progresivo e irreversible de los electrodos comprobados, y una segunda es la falta de fiabilidad del resultado obtenido, ya que si no se obtiene una lectura satisfactoria, la tendencia es a hurgar con la punta del tester en el lugar que se está midiendo hasta que se obtiene la lectura, de modo que la propia punta del tester puede simultáneamente romper un filamento y puentearlo dando una lectura correcta. Different types of garments are provided with electro-stimulation electrodes, particularly vests or elastic suits, but no means have been described by which a malfunction of the electrodes can be identified, nor a possible detection of excess CPK isoenzyme, whose Consequences can affect the brain and kidneys, as described in different articles on this isoenzyme. There is, in addition to checking with the palm of the hand, a crude practice for checking the condition of the electrodes that consists in introducing the tips of an electric tester or tester through the protective fabric of the garment, insulating fabric direct contact of the electrode mesh. This practice has two adverse consequences, a first one is that the placement of the tips of the tester tends to cause the breakage of filaments and the progressive and irreversible deterioration of the electrodes tested, and a second is the lack of reliability of the result obtained, since that if a satisfactory reading is not obtained, the tendency is to rummage with the tip of the tester in the place that is being measured until the reading is obtained, so that the tester's tip can simultaneously break a filament and bridge it giving a correct reading.
La comprobación del funcionamiento de una prenda de electroestimulación también se realiza actualmente mediante el sistema de prueba, en la que una persona experta se coloca la prenda y procede a su activación. Si a su criterio, obviamente subjetivo, la prueba es satisfactoria lo entrega para su uso. Esta práctica es lamentablemente muy poco fiable, y además inviable en gimnasios donde cuentan con unos cientos de prendas, que requerirían de un tiempo larguísimo para su verificación, cuestión inviable económicamente, como también inviable en la práctica, pues una persona no puede estar continuamente activándose mediante electromusculación pues incurriría en el mismo problema que pretende evitarse. Tampoco dicha práctica resulta posible para distintas tallas de prenda, pues requeriría tantas personas para probar como tallas de prendas hubiera disponibles. The operation test of an electrostimulation garment is also currently carried out by means of the test system, in which an expert person places the garment and proceeds to its activation. If at your discretion, obviously subjective, the test is satisfactory, it is delivered for use. This practice is unfortunately very unreliable, and also unfeasible in gyms where they have a few hundred garments, which would require a very long time for verification, economically unfeasible, as well as unfeasible in practice, because a person cannot be continuously activating by electromusculation because it would incur the same problem that is intended to be avoided. Nor is this practice possible for different garment sizes, as it would require so many people to test how garment sizes would be available.
En una forma más sencilla, como se ha indicado anteriormente, se puede verificar mediante la mano del entrenador que, tras humedecer los electrodos, comprueba si hay recepción del impulso eléctrico. Esta práctica no permite verificar si existe el impulso eléctrico se produce en un solo punto o está distribuido en la superficie completa del electrodo. Explicación de la invención In a simpler way, as indicated above, it can be verified by the hand of the trainer who, after wetting the electrodes, checks if there is reception of the electrical impulse. This practice does not allow to verify if the electrical impulse exists occurs in a single point or is distributed in the entire surface of the electrode. Explanation of the invention.
La presente invención consiste en un método para la comprobación del funcionamiento correcto de los electrodos de una prenda de electroestimulación, mediante la detección de la conductividad del tejido conductivo en toda su superficie de manera rápida y efectiva. The present invention consists of a method for checking the correct operation of the electrodes of an electrostimulation garment, by detecting the conductivity of the conductive tissue on its entire surface quickly and effectively.
El método comprende: The method comprises:
• Establecimiento de unos valores de referencia para una prenda tipo, siguiendo las etapas que se indican a continuación; estos valores de referencia podrán ser comprobados periódicamente mediante un nuevo ensayo "de referencia"; y • Establishment of reference values for a type garment, following the steps indicated below; These reference values may be checked periodically by means of a new "reference" test; Y
• Realización de la medición de los valores de la prenda ensayada, y su comparación con los valores de referencia. • Performing the measurement of the values of the tested garment, and its comparison with the reference values.
Las etapas que se llevan a cabo son las siguientes: The stages that are carried out are the following:
• Conexión de un generador de pulso eléctrico al conector de los electrodos o de la prenda; • Connection of an electric pulse generator to the electrode or garment connector;
• Generación de un pulso eléctrico; o El pulso eléctrico es de uno de los siguientes tipos (sinusoidal, rectangular, Farádica, triangular, progresiva, ...); de forma particular es de tipo sinusoidal. o La tensión máxima del pulso eléctrico será la mínima que de un resultado correcto a la lectura; se ha comprobado que un valor de 9V da un resultado fiable; no obstante, cualquier valor de la tensión eléctrica que cumpla con el objeto de la invención debe considerarse dentro de su ámbito; o También, se ha comprobado que una frecuencia de 100Hz a 500Hz genera valores que proporcionan fiabilidad a la lectura; también, cualquier valor por encima o por debajo de éstos que cumpla con la finalidad pretendida debe considerarse dentro del ámbito de la invención; La utilización de estos parámetros, muy por debajo de los parámetros de uso, hasta 180V, hace que no deba considerarse ningún deterioro por la realización de las pruebas; • Generation of an electric pulse; o The electrical pulse is one of the following types (sinusoidal, rectangular, Faradic, triangular, progressive, ...); in particular it is sinusoidal. o The maximum voltage of the electric pulse will be the minimum that of a correct reading result; it has been proven that a value of 9V gives a reliable result; however, any value of the electric voltage that meets the object of the invention must be considered within its scope; o Also, it has been proven that a frequency of 100Hz to 500Hz generates values that provide reliability to the reading; also, any value above or below these that meets the intended purpose must be considered within the scope of the invention; The use of these parameters, well below the usage parameters, up to 180V, means that no deterioration should be considered due to the tests;
La tensión y frecuencia aplicada bajo estos parámetros hace que los electrodos generen un campo radioeléctrico; · Aplicación de un receptor, provisto de un captador o antena, bien desde el anversoThe voltage and frequency applied under these parameters causes the electrodes to generate a radio field; · Application of a receiver, provided with a sensor or antenna, either from the front
(parte exterior) de la prenda, bien desde el reverso (la superficie interior); para evitar la conductividad eléctrica entre el electrodo y el captador o antena, dicho captador o antena está provisto preferentemente de un recubrimiento aislante a la corriente, pero permeable al campo radioeléctrico, la aplicación del captador o antena deberá realizarse en seco; (outer part) of the garment, either from the back (the inner surface); in order to avoid the electrical conductivity between the electrode and the sensor or antenna, said sensor or antenna is preferably provided with an insulating coating to the current, but permeable to the radio field, the application of the sensor or antenna must be carried out dry;
• Medición de los valores del campo radioeléctrico emitido por el electrodo en distintos puntos de la superficie de dicho electrodo, o de manera continua a lo largo de la superficie del electrodo, o de todos los electrodos de la prenda; • Measurement of the values of the radioelectric field emitted by the electrode at different points of the surface of said electrode, or continuously along the surface of the electrode, or of all the electrodes of the garment;
En la fase de ensayo, incluye además la etapa de comparación de los valores del ensayo con los valores de referencia. In the test phase, it also includes the step of comparing the test values with the reference values.
Si los valores del campo radioeléctrico obtenidos en el ensayo están dentro de un rango aceptable predeterminado en relación con los valores de referencia la prenda o el electrodo será válido y podrá ser utilizado; por el contrario, si el electrodo o al menos uno de los electrodos de la prenda están fuera de dicho rango, el electrodo deberá ser rechazado, y la prenda, en su caso, reparada o retirada. If the values of the radioelectric field obtained in the test are within a predetermined acceptable range in relation to the reference values the garment or electrode will be valid and may be used; on the contrary, if the electrode or at least one of the electrodes of the garment are outside said range, the electrode must be rejected, and the garment, if necessary, repaired or removed.
La medición deberá realizarse preferentemente en seco, para evitar la conductividad eléctrica y el paso de corriente que alteraría la medición y proporcionaría valores erróneos. The measurement should preferably be performed dry, to avoid the electrical conductivity and the current flow that would alter the measurement and provide erroneous values.
Los electrodos y/o las prendas estarán correctamente identificados, por ejemplo, mediante una etiqueta de control provista de un código o número de identificación. Ello permite determinar la antigüedad de la prenda o del electrodo, la cantidad de usos realizada, la evolución de la variación de valores respecto a los de referencia, y en definitiva facilitar la toma de decisión de la reparación o rechazo aun cuando los parámetros medidos estén al límite del rango aceptable, es decir, muy próximos al no aceptable. The electrodes and / or garments will be correctly identified, for example, by means of a control label provided with an identification code or number. This allows to determine the age of the garment or electrode, the amount of uses made, the evolution of the variation of values with respect to those of reference, and ultimately facilitate the decision making of repair or rejection even when the measured parameters are within the limits of the acceptable range, that is, very close to the unacceptable one.
Se refiere también la invención a un dispositivo para realizar la comprobación según el método anteriormente descrito. El dispositivo comprende: The invention also relates to a device for testing according to the method described above. The device comprises:
• Un emisor o fuente de alimentación de una señal eléctrica pulsante. • A transmitter or power supply of a pulsating electrical signal.
• Un conector de dicha fuente para ser conectado al conector de un electrodo o de una prenda provista de electrodos; • A connector of said source to be connected to the connector of an electrode or a garment provided with electrodes;
• Un receptor provisto de un captador o antena de lectura del campo radioeléctrico en distintos puntos del electrodo o de manera continua a lo largo de la superficie del electrodo; • A receiver provided with a radio field sensor or antenna reading at different points of the electrode or continuously along the surface of the electrode;
• Un medidor de la intensidad del campo leído por el receptor. • A field strength meter read by the receiver.
De manera preferente, el captador está provisto de un recubrimiento aislante de la corriente eléctrica, pero permeable al campo radioeléctrico. Según una forma de realización del método anteriormente expuesto, puede usarse como soporte de la prenda una percha o mesa, realizándose la medición manualmente en las zonas provistas de los electrodos. Y puesto que es también posible la verificación por el lado externo de la prenda, de manera puntual cuando el usuario perciba algo extraño, puede acudirse a medir el estímulo en la parte correspondiente, pudiendo desechar la prenda en ese momento si ha surgido el error o avería de modo sobrevenido. Preferably, the collector is provided with an insulating coating of the electric current, but permeable to the radio field. According to an embodiment of the above method, a hanger or table can be used as a support for the garment, the measurement being carried out manually in the areas provided with the electrodes. And since it is also possible to verify on the external side of the garment, in a timely manner when the user perceives something strange, you can go to measure the stimulus in the corresponding part, being able to discard the garment at that time if the error has arisen or failure so ensured.
Además de este dispositivo manual, que comprueba los electrodos independientemente, se prevé la realización de uno que permita la comprobación simultánea, en la que el receptor está constituido por un maniquí captador al que se coloca y sujeta la prenda, siendo en este caso el maniquí un captador con múltiples zonas de captación; el maniquí podrá estar provisto de un recubrimiento aislante en la totalidad o en parte de su superficie. De forma particular, el maniquí es compresible y/o está provisto de medios expansivos, por ejemplo, mediante un núcleo o un recubrimiento hinchable, que asegure un correcto posicionamiento de los captadores o antenas respecto a los correspondientes electrodos, de modo que al expandirse la superficie del maniquí se sitúa a una mínima distancia de los electrodos de la prenda. In addition to this manual device, which checks the electrodes independently, it is planned to perform one that allows simultaneous testing, in which the receiver is constituted by a pick-up dummy to which the garment is placed and attached, being in this case the dummy a collector with multiple catchment areas; The dummy may be provided with an insulating coating on all or part of its surface. In particular, the dummy is compressible and / or is provided with expansive means, for example, by means of a core or an inflatable coating, which ensures a correct positioning of the sensors or antennas with respect to the corresponding electrodes, so that when the The surface of the dummy is located at a minimum distance from the electrodes of the garment.
El hecho de que el maniquí sea compresible o expansivo permite que pueda utilizarse para distintas tallas sin alterar por ello los valores de las mediciones. The fact that the dummy is compressible or expansive allows it to be used for different sizes without altering the measurement values.
De este modo se simplifica la tarea de verificación y mediante la colocación de un dispositivo de circulación de aire por su interior puede ser usado también para acelerar el secado de la humedad residual tras su uso en el deportista, mejorando también las condiciones higiénicas de la prenda. In this way the verification task is simplified and by placing an air circulation device inside it can also be used to accelerate the drying of residual moisture after its use in the athlete, also improving the hygienic conditions of the garment .
Según una opción, el dispositivo puede estar conectado a un ordenador, de modo que se almacenen las lecturas realizadas en cada prenda a lo largo del tiempo, permitiendo conocer su historial y evolución de su grado de deterioro. According to one option, the device can be connected to a computer, so that the readings made in each garment are stored over time, allowing to know its history and evolution of its degree of deterioration.
Breve descripción de los dibujos Brief description of the drawings
Con objeto de ilustrar la explicación que va a seguir, adjuntamos a la presente memoria descriptiva seis hojas de dibujos en las que en ocho figuras se representa a título de ejemplo y sin carácter limitativo, la esencia del dispositivo de la presente invención conforme a una realización particular, y en las que: In order to illustrate the explanation to be followed, we attach to the present specification six sheets of drawings in which eight figures represent, by way of example and without limitation, the essence of the device of the present invention according to an embodiment particular, and in which:
La figura 1 muestra una vista esquemática de un usuario haciendo uso de una prenda de electroestimulación; Figure 1 shows a schematic view of a user using an electrostimulation garment;
La figura 2 muestra una vista esquemática semejante a la anterior, con el usuario en reposo; La figura 3 muestra una vista esquemática de la prenda, provista de conectores eléctricos y electrodos de electroestimulacion; Figure 2 shows a schematic view similar to the previous one, with the user at rest; Figure 3 shows a schematic view of the garment, provided with electrical connectors and electrostimulation electrodes;
La figura 4 muestra una vista esquemática del dispositivo de comprobación, según una realización en que dicho dispositivo presenta forma de maniquí; La figura 5 muestra una vista esquemática del dispositivo de la figura 4, que tiene colocada la prenda; y Figure 4 shows a schematic view of the checking device, according to an embodiment in which said device is in the form of a dummy; Figure 5 shows a schematic view of the device of Figure 4, which has the garment in place; Y
La figura 6 muestra una vista esquemática del conjunto de elementos que comprende el dispositivo para realización manual. Figure 6 shows a schematic view of the set of elements comprising the device for manual realization.
Descripción de los modos de realización de la invención Description of the embodiments of the invention
Conforme a un primer aspecto de la invención se describe un método que permite comprobar el correcto funcionamiento de electrodos en prendas de electroestimulacion. Según dicho método, se realizan las siguientes operaciones: According to a first aspect of the invention, a method is described that allows to verify the correct operation of electrodes in electrostimulation garments. According to said method, the following operations are performed:
• Conexión al conector o a los conectores de la prenda de una fuente eléctrica. · En su caso, colocación de la prenda en un soporte de test. • Connection to the connector or to the garment connectors of an electrical source. · If applicable, placing the garment on a test stand.
• Si el soporte de test es un maniquí conforme es descrito como un dispositivo de la invención, abrochado de la prenda sobre dicho maniquí y expansión del maniquí hasta que los elementos sensores del mismo se sitúen en contacto con los electrodos de la prenda; en caso contrario, colocación manual del dispositivo lector (la antena) de la invención sobre cada uno de los electrodos. • If the test stand is a compliant dummy is described as a device of the invention, fastened of the garment on said dummy and expansion of the dummy until the sensor elements thereof are in contact with the electrodes of the garment; otherwise, manual placement of the reading device (the antenna) of the invention on each of the electrodes.
• Generación de un pulso eléctrico que transmite corriente a los electrodos conectados, y genera un campo radioeléctrico en la zona de cada electrodo. o La tensión máxima de dicho pulso eléctrico es de hasta 9V, aunque el uso de otro valor quedará dentro del objeto de la invención en tanto que cumpla con la finalidad pretendida; o La frecuencia del pulso eléctrico es de hasta 500 KHz y más particularmente de hasta 100 Hz; al igual que en la tensión, la utilización de un valor mayor también queda dentro del objeto de la invención en tanto que cumpla con la finalidad pretendida; • Generation of an electric pulse that transmits current to the connected electrodes, and generates a radio field in the area of each electrode. o The maximum voltage of said electric pulse is up to 9V, although the use of another value will remain within the object of the invention as long as it fulfills the intended purpose; o The frequency of the electric pulse is up to 500 KHz and more particularly up to 100 Hz; as in the case of tension, the use of a higher value is also within the scope of the invention as long as it fulfills the intended purpose;
• Aplicación sobre la superficie externa de los electrodos, bien por el anverso, bien por el reverso de la prenda, de un captador o antena de radiofrecuencia, que lee la señal del campo eléctrico generado por la fuente eléctrica. • Application on the external surface of the electrodes, either on the front, or on the back of the garment, of a radio frequency sensor or antenna, which reads the signal of the electric field generated by the electrical source.
• Comparación de los valores de referencia; o Los valores de referencia se diferenciarán según medición actual, y mediciones de referencia realizadas por el exterior de la prenda (a través del tejido que separa el captador del electrodo), o según medición actual y mediciones de referencia; • Comparison of the reference values; o The reference values will be differentiated according to current measurement, and reference measurements made outside the garment (through the tissue that separates the electrode sensor), or according to current measurement and reference measurements;
• Determinación de si la prenda está en estado correcto, o si está en estado incorrecto y ha de ser reparada o si debe ser desechada. • Determination of whether the garment is in the correct condition, or if it is in the wrong condition and has to be repaired or if it should be discarded.
Para evitar que la prenda y/los electrodos puedan adquirir condiciones de conductividad distintos debido a la humedad y alterar la uniformidad de los resultados, es recomendable que el ensayo se realice con la prenda seca. To avoid that the garment and / or the electrodes can acquire different conductivity conditions due to the humidity and to alter the uniformity of the results, it is recommended that the test be carried out with the dry garment.
Cada prenda tendrá una "ficha" de calibración, y de los valores aceptables, sea la lectura realizada desde el interior (en contacto con el electrodo) o desde el exterior (a través del tejido que forma la prenda). Así, el método de la invención comprende una etapa previa general de calibración de cada prenda tipo, y establecimiento de los valores de referencia y/o los valores aceptables, tanto por la parte interior como por la parte exterior. También con carácter previo se identifica mediante el medio de control correspondiente (RFID, etiqueta textil codificada, ...) cada una de las prendas que se ensaya. Each garment will have a "token" of calibration, and of the acceptable values, be it the reading made from the inside (in contact with the electrode) or from the outside (through the fabric that forms the garment). Thus, the method of the invention comprises a previous general stage of calibration of each type garment, and establishment of the reference values and / or acceptable values, both on the inside and on the outside. Also beforehand, each of the items being tested is identified by means of the corresponding control means (RFID, coded textile label, ...).
Opcional, pero convenientemente incluye el método de la invención el registro de los valores obtenidos para la prenda para registrar su trazabilidad, para conocer no solamente el estado actual, sino realizar un seguimiento que permitirá valorar la calidad de la pieza, su duración, la evolución de su deterioro, etc. Optional, but conveniently includes the method of the invention the registration of the values obtained for the garment to record its traceability, to know not only the current state, but to track that will allow to assess the quality of the piece, its duration, the evolution of its deterioration, etc.
Según un segundo aspecto de la invención, ésta se refiere a un dispositivo para llevar a cabo el método anteriormente descrito. According to a second aspect of the invention, this refers to a device for carrying out the method described above.
Dicho dispositivo comprende los siguientes elementos: · Un generador (21) o fuente de alimentación de una señal eléctrica pulsante provisto del correspondiente circuito generador (29); de manera preferente el pulso generado de tipo sinusoidal; Said device comprises the following elements: · A generator (21) or power supply of a pulsating electrical signal provided with the corresponding generator circuit (29); preferably the generated pulse of sinusoidal type;
• Un conector (10) de dicho generador (21) o fuente para ser conectado al conector (6) de una prenda (1) provista de electrodos (5) o a uno o más conectores (4) de dichos electrodos (5); dicho conector (10) incluirá un cable de conexión (7); • A connector (10) of said generator (21) or source to be connected to the connector (6) of a garment (1) provided with electrodes (5) or to one or more connectors (4) of said electrodes (5); said connector (10) will include a connection cable (7);
• Un dispositivo receptor (8,22), provisto de un circuito receptor (32) y al menos un captador o antena (9,28) de lectura del campo radioeléctrico en distintos puntos del electrodo (5) de manera continua a lo largo de la superficie del electrodo; el receptor, según una realización particular, está formado por un cuerpo provisto de los siguientes elementos: o Indicadores luminosos (25) o Indicadores acústicos (35), o Display o pantalla informativa (26) o Interruptor de conexión, por ejemplo, mediante un pulsador (27) • Un circuito medidor de la intensidad del campo leído por el captador o antena (28). • A receiving device (8.22), provided with a receiving circuit (32) and at least one sensor or antenna (9.28) for reading the radio field at different points of the electrode (5) continuously along the electrode surface; The receiver, according to a particular embodiment, is formed by a body provided with the following elements: o Light indicators (25) or Acoustic indicators (35), or Display or information display (26) or Connection switch, for example, by means of a push button (27) • A field intensity measuring circuit read by the sensor or antenna (28).
El generador estará normalmente conectado con el receptor, por ejemplo, mediante un cable (23) espiral, o por medios inalámbricos. Según una opción, a tal efecto el generador (21) tiene un conector (30) para su conexión por cable (23) con el receptor (22), y el receptor (22) tiene un conector (34) para su conexión por cable (23) con el generador (21). El dispositivo de la invención puede estar conectado con un ordenador mediante una conexión por cable mediante el correspondiente conector, o inalámbrica. Tanto el generador como el receptor pueden estar alimentados por cable o mediante un acumulador eléctrico, en este caso provistos de los correspondientes circuitos y/o conectores de carga (31,33). De manera preferente, la antena (28) del receptor (22) está provista de un recubrimiento aislante de la corriente eléctrica, pero permeable al campo radioeléctrico. The generator will normally be connected to the receiver, for example, by a spiral cable (23), or by wireless means. According to one option, for this purpose the generator (21) has a connector (30) for its cable connection (23) with the receiver (22), and the receiver (22) has a connector (34) for its cable connection (23) with the generator (21). The device of the invention can be connected to a computer via a cable connection via the corresponding connector, or wireless. Both the generator and the receiver can be powered by cable or by an electric accumulator, in this case provided with the corresponding circuits and / or charging connectors (31,33). Preferably, the antenna (28) of the receiver (22) is provided with an insulating coating of the electric current, but permeable to the radio field.
Según una forma de realización del método anteriormente expuesto, es posible que incluso sea el usuario el que ejerce la función de soporte de la prenda (1), realizándose la medición manualmente en las zonas provistas de los electrodos (5). Puesto que es también posible la verificación por el lado externo de la prenda (1), de manera puntual cuando el usuario nota algo extraño, puede acudirse a medir el estímulo en la parte correspondiente, pudiendo desechar la prenda en ese momento si ha surgido el error o avería de modo sobrevenido. According to an embodiment of the method described above, it is possible that even the user is the one who performs the function of supporting the garment (1), the measurement being carried out manually in the areas provided with the electrodes (5). Since it is also possible to verify on the external side of the garment (1), in a timely manner when the user notices something strange, you can go to measure the stimulus in the corresponding part, being able to discard the garment at that time if the error or failure so ensued.
Como se ha indicado anteriormente, según una realización particular, el receptor (21) está constituido por un maniquí (8) preferentemente expansible, por medios mecánicos, hidráulicos o neumáticos, al que se coloca y sujeta la prenda (1), siendo además en este caso el maniquí un receptor (9)con múltiples zonas de captación correspondientes a cada uno de los electrodos (5) de la prenda (1), o con una zona de captación continua a lo largo de toda la superficie del maniquí; el maniquí (8) podrá estar provisto de un recubrimiento aislante en la totalidad o en parte de su superficie. La superficie estará formada preferentemente por un material blando, que facilite el contacto con los correspondientes electrodos (5) de la prenda (1). As indicated above, according to a particular embodiment, the receiver (21) is constituted by a dummy (8) preferably expandable, by mechanical, hydraulic or pneumatic means, to which the garment (1) is placed and attached, being also in in this case, the dummy is a receiver (9) with multiple pickup zones corresponding to each of the electrodes (5) of the garment (1), or with a continuous pickup zone along the entire surface of the dummy; The dummy (8) may be provided with an insulating coating on all or part of its surface. The surface will preferably consist of a soft material, which facilitates contact with the corresponding electrodes (5) of the garment (1).
De forma particular, el maniquí (8) es expansible o compresible, y/o está provisto de medios expansivos, por ejemplo, mediante un núcleo o un recubrimiento hinchable, que asegure un correcto posicionamiento del captador o antena respecto a los correspondientes electrodos, de modo que al expandirse la superficie del maniquí se sitúa a una mínima distancia de los electrodos (5) de la prenda (1). In particular, the dummy (8) is expandable or compressible, and / or is provided with expansive means, for example, by means of a core or an inflatable coating, which ensures a correct positioning of the sensor or antenna with respect to the corresponding electrodes, of so that when expanding the surface of the dummy is located at a minimum distance from the electrodes (5) of the garment (1).
El hecho de que el maniquí sea compresible o expansivo permite que pueda utilizarse para distintas tallas sin alterar por ello los valores de las mediciones. De este modo se simplifica la tarea de verificación. The fact that the dummy is compressible or expansive allows it to be used for different sizes without altering the measurement values. This simplifies the verification task.
Según una opción, el dispositivo generador (21) y/o el dispositivo receptor (22) pueden estar conectados a un ordenador, de modo que se almacenen las lecturas realizadas en cada prenda a lo largo del tiempo, permitiendo conocer su historial y evolución de su grado de deterioro. According to one option, the generating device (21) and / or the receiving device (22) can be connected to a computer, so that the readings made in each garment are stored over time, allowing to know its history and evolution of its degree of deterioration

Claims

REIVINDICACIONES
1.- Método para la comprobación del funcionamiento correcto de electrodos en prendas de electroestimulacion, caracterizado por comprender las siguientes operaciones: 1.- Method for checking the correct operation of electrodes in electrostimulation garments, characterized by comprising the following operations:
• En su caso, colocación de la prenda en un soporte de test (percha o mesa); • Where appropriate, placing the garment on a test stand (hanger or table);
• Conexión al conector o a los conectores de la prenda de una fuente o generador eléctrico; • Connection to the connector or to the garment connectors of an electrical source or generator;
• Generación de un pulso eléctrico que transmite la corriente a los electrodos conectados, que genera un campo radioeléctrico en la zona de cada electrodo; • Generation of an electric pulse that transmits the current to the connected electrodes, which generates a radio field in the area of each electrode;
• Aplicación sobre la superficie externa de los electrodos, bien por el anverso, bien por el reverso de la prenda, de un captador o antena de radiofrecuencia, que lee la señal del campo eléctrico generado por la fuente eléctrica; • Application on the external surface of the electrodes, either on the front, or on the back of the garment, of a radio frequency sensor or antenna, which reads the signal of the electric field generated by the electrical source;
• Comparación de los valores de la medición con valores de referencia; o Los valores de referencia se diferenciarán según medición actual, y mediciones de referencia realizadas por el exterior de la prenda (a través del tejido que separa el captador del electrodo), o según medición actual y mediciones de referencia realizadas por el interior de la prenda (sin tejido de separación con el electrodo); • Comparison of measurement values with reference values; o The reference values will be differentiated according to current measurement, and reference measurements made on the outside of the garment (through the tissue that separates the sensor from the electrode), or according to current measurement and reference measurements made inside the garment. (no tissue separating with the electrode);
• Determinación de si la prenda está en estado correcto, o si está en estado incorrecto y ha de ser reparada o si debe ser desechada. • Determination of whether the garment is in the correct condition, or if it is in the wrong condition and has to be repaired or if it should be discarded.
2.- Método para la comprobación del funcionamiento correcto de electrodos en prendas de electroestimulacion, según la reivindicación 1, caracterizado por que la tensión máxima del dicho pulso eléctrico es de hasta 9V. 2. Method for checking the correct operation of electrodes in electrostimulation garments, according to claim 1, characterized in that the maximum voltage of said electric pulse is up to 9V.
3. - Método para la comprobación del funcionamiento correcto de electrodos en prendas de electroestimulacion, según cualquiera de las reivindicaciones 1 a 2, caracterizado por que la frecuencia del pulso eléctrico es de hasta 500 KHz, y particularmente de hasta 100 Hz; 3. - Method for checking the correct operation of electrodes in electrostimulation garments, according to any of claims 1 to 2, characterized in that the frequency of the electric pulse is up to 500 KHz, and particularly up to 100 Hz;
4. - Método para la comprobación del funcionamiento correcto de electrodos en prendas de electroestimulacion, según cualquiera de las reivindicaciones 1, caracterizado por qué si el soporte de test es un maniquí captador, incluye la etapa de abrochado de la prenda al maniquí. 4. - Method for checking the correct operation of electrodes in electrostimulation garments, according to any of claims 1, characterized in that if the test stand is a pickup dummy, it includes the step of fastening the garment to the dummy.
5. - Método para la comprobación del funcionamiento correcto de electrodos en prendas de electroestimulacion, según la reivindicación 4, caracterizado por qué si el soporte de test es un maniquí captador expansible, incluye la etapa de expansión del cuerpo del maniquí hasta que los elementos sensores del mismo se sitúen en contacto con los electrodos de la prenda. 5. - Method for checking the correct operation of electrodes in electrostimulation garments, according to claim 4, characterized in that if the test stand is an expandable sensor dummy, it includes the expansion stage of the dummy body until the sensor elements They are in contact with the electrodes of the garment.
6. - Método para la comprobación del funcionamiento correcto de electrodos en prendas de electroestimulacion, según cualquiera de las reivindicaciones 1 a 5, caracterizado por que comprende además el registro de la información obtenida del ensayo o test realizado en dicha prenda. 6. - Method for checking the correct operation of electrodes in electrostimulation garments, according to any of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that it also includes the registration of the information obtained from the test or test performed on said garment.
7.- Método para la comprobación del funcionamiento correcto de electrodos en prendas de electroestimulacion, según cualquiera de las reivindicaciones 1 a 6, caracterizado por que comprende además una etapa previa de calibración de cada prenda tipo y establecimiento de los valores de referencia, tanto para lecturas tomadas desde la parte interior como desde la parte exterior. 7. Method for checking the correct operation of electrodes in electrostimulation garments, according to any of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that it also comprises a previous stage of calibration of each type garment and setting of the reference values, both for readings taken from the inside as well as from the outside.
8.- Dispositivo para la comprobación del funcionamiento correcto de electrodos en prendas de electroestimulacion para llevar a cabo el método según cualquiera de las reivindicaciones 1 a 7, caracterizado por comprender los siguientes elementos: 8. Device for checking the correct operation of electrodes in electrostimulation garments to carry out the method according to any of claims 1 to 7, characterized by comprising the following elements:
• Un generador (21) o fuente de alimentación de una señal eléctrica pulsante; de manera preferente el pulso generado de tipo sinusoidal; · Un conector (30) de dicho generador para ser conectado al conector (6) de un electrodo (5) o de una prenda (1) provista de electrodos; • Un dispositivo receptor (22), provisto de un captador o antena (28) de lectura del campo radioeléctrico en distintos puntos del electrodo (5) o de manera continua a lo largo de la superficie del electrodo (5); • A generator (21) or power supply of a pulsating electrical signal; preferably the generated pulse of sinusoidal type; A connector (30) of said generator to be connected to the connector (6) of an electrode (5) or a garment (1) provided with electrodes; • A receiving device (22), provided with a sensor or antenna (28) for reading the radio field at different points of the electrode (5) or continuously along the surface of the electrode (5);
• Un circuito (32) medidor de la intensidad del campo leído por el captador o antena. • A circuit (32) measuring the intensity of the field read by the sensor or antenna.
9.- Dispositivo para la comprobación del funcionamiento correcto de electrodos en prendas de electroestimulacion, según la reivindicación 8, caracterizado por que la tensión máxima del pulso eléctrico generado por el generador (21) es de hasta 9V; 9. Device for checking the correct operation of electrodes in electrostimulation garments, according to claim 8, characterized in that the maximum voltage of the electric pulse generated by the generator (21) is up to 9V;
10. - Dispositivo para la comprobación del funcionamiento correcto de electrodos en prendas de electroestimulacion, según cualquiera de las reivindicaciones 8 a 9, caracterizado por que la frecuencia del pulso eléctrico generado por el generador (21) es de hasta 500Hz, y particularmente de hasta 100Hz. 10. - Device for checking the correct operation of electrodes in electrostimulation garments, according to any of claims 8 to 9, characterized in that the frequency of the electric pulse generated by the generator (21) is up to 500Hz, and particularly up to 100Hz
11. - Dispositivo para la comprobación del funcionamiento correcto de electrodos en prendas de electroestimulacion, según cualquiera de las reivindicaciones 8 a 10, caracterizado por que el receptor está formado por un cuerpo provisto de uno o más de los siguientes elementos: · Indicadores luminosos (35) 11. - Device for checking the correct operation of electrodes in electrostimulation garments, according to any of claims 8 to 10, characterized in that the receiver is formed by a body provided with one or more of the following elements: · Light indicators ( 35)
• Indicadores acústicos (35), • Acoustic indicators (35),
• Display o pantalla informativa (26) • Information display or screen (26)
• Interruptor de conexión, por ejemplo, mediante un pulsador (27) • Connection switch, for example, by means of a push button (27)
12. - Dispositivo para la comprobación del funcionamiento correcto de electrodos en prendas de electroestimulacion, según cualquiera de las reivindicaciones 8 a 11, caracterizado por que al menos uno del emisor y el receptor está provisto de un sistema de alimentación eléctrica por cable o mediante un acumulador eléctrico. 12. - Device for checking the correct operation of electrodes in electrostimulation garments, according to any of claims 8 to 11, characterized in that at least one of the emitter and the receiver is provided with a power supply system by cable or by means of a electric accumulator
13. - Dispositivo para la comprobación del funcionamiento correcto de electrodos en prendas de electroestimulacion, según cualquiera de las reivindicaciones 8 a 12, caracterizado por que el emisor y el receptor están provistos de un sistema conexión para la transmisión de información entre sí por medio de cable o por medios inalámbricos. 13. - Device for checking the correct operation of electrodes in electrostimulation garments, according to any of claims 8 to 12, characterized in that The transmitter and the receiver are provided with a connection system for the transmission of information to each other by means of cable or by wireless means.
14. - Dispositivo para la comprobación del funcionamiento correcto de electrodos en prendas de electroestimulacion, según cualquiera de las reivindicaciones 8 a 12, caracterizado por que al menos uno del emisor y el receptor está provisto de un sistema de conexión para la transmisión de información con un ordenador por medio de cable o por medios inalámbricos. 14. - Device for checking the correct operation of electrodes in electrostimulation garments, according to any one of claims 8 to 12, characterized in that at least one of the emitter and the receiver is provided with a connection system for the transmission of information with a computer via cable or wireless means.
15. - Dispositivo para la comprobación del funcionamiento correcto de electrodos en prendas de electroestimulacion, según cualquiera de las reivindicaciones 8 a 14, caracterizado por que la antena del receptor está provista de un recubrimiento aislante de la corriente eléctrica, pero permeable al campo radioeléctrico. 15. - Device for checking the correct operation of electrodes in electrostimulation garments, according to any of claims 8 to 14, characterized in that the antenna of the receiver is provided with an insulating coating of the electric current, but permeable to the radioelectric field.
16. - Dispositivo para la comprobación del funcionamiento correcto de electrodos en prendas de electroestimulacion, según cualquiera de las reivindicaciones 6 a 15, caracterizado por que el receptor está constituido por un maniquí al que se coloca y sujeta la prenda, comprendiendo el maniquí múltiples zonas de captación correspondientes a cada uno de los electrodos de la prenda, o una zona de captación continua a lo largo de toda la superficie del maniquí. 16. - Device for checking the correct operation of electrodes in electrostimulation garments, according to any of claims 6 to 15, characterized in that the receiver is constituted by a dummy to which the garment is placed and attached, the dummy comprising multiple areas of collection corresponding to each of the electrodes of the garment, or a continuous collection area along the entire surface of the dummy.
17. - Dispositivo para la comprobación del funcionamiento correcto de electrodos en prendas de electroestimulacion, según la reivindicación 16, caracterizado por que el maniquí está provisto de un recubrimiento aislante en la totalidad o en parte de su superficie. 17. - Device for checking the correct operation of electrodes in electrostimulation garments, according to claim 16, characterized in that the dummy is provided with an insulating coating on all or part of its surface.
18. - Dispositivo para la comprobación del funcionamiento correcto de electrodos en prendas de electroestimulacion, según cualquiera de las reivindicaciones 16 a 17, caracterizado por que la superficie del maniquí está formada por un material blando. 18. - Device for checking the correct operation of electrodes in electrostimulation garments, according to any of claims 16 to 17, characterized in that the surface of the dummy is formed by a soft material.
19. - Dispositivo para la comprobación del funcionamiento correcto de electrodos en prendas de electroestimulacion, según cualquiera de las reivindicaciones 16 a 18, caracterizado por que el cuerpo del maniquí es expansible por medios mecánicos, hidráulicos o neumáticos. 19. - Device for checking the correct operation of electrodes in electrostimulation garments, according to any of claims 16 to 18, characterized in that the body of the dummy is expandable by mechanical, hydraulic or pneumatic means.
PCT/ES2018/070264 2017-03-29 2018-03-28 Method for testing the correct operation of electrodes in electrostimulation garments and device for carrying out said method WO2018178476A1 (en)

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