A novel functional electrical stimulation sleeve based on textile-embedded dry electrodes

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Rehabilitation Technology
• Textile Science

Background:

• Functional electrical stimulation (FES) aids motor control recovery in impaired patients.
• Existing FES systems often rely on less comfortable hydrogel electrodes.
• A need exists for improved, wearable FES electrode solutions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design and prototype a smart sleeve with integrated carbon-based dry electrodes for FES.
• To develop a method for seamless electrode-textile integration and electrical connectivity.
• To evaluate the performance, comfort, and efficacy of the smart FES sleeve compared to traditional electrodes.

Main Methods:

• Carbon-based dry electrodes were integrated into a textile substrate using thermal compression molding.
• An embroidered conductive matrix of silver-plated yarns ensured electrical connection to the stimulator.
• Performance was assessed by comparing stimulation intensity, perceived comfort, and muscle torque against hydrogel electrodes.

Main Results:

• The smart FES sleeve demonstrated improved average comfort and higher average stimulation intensity.
• No significant differences were observed in the muscle torque generated compared to hydrogel electrodes.
• The integrated dry electrodes maintained or improved electrode performance within the wearable system.

Conclusions:

• Textile-integrated dry electrodes offer a viable and effective solution for wearable FES.
• The developed prototyping method is scalable for garment production and commercialization.
• This approach holds potential for widespread application in FES rehabilitation across various muscle groups.