Combined Stimulation and Measurement System for Array Electrodes

Array electrodes have the potential to significantly advance Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) performance and patient compliance by optimizing the electrode position. To evaluate the potentials and for research purposes, an universal stimulation system for array electrodes has been developed. The system additionally features volitional EMG recording from the array electrodes during active stimulation. Multiple devices, one stimulator and at least one demultiplexer, are synchronized to deliver up to 10 stimulation pulses per stimulation cycle at a frequency of ≈ 420Hz. A typical stimulation cycle period is 50 ms. The real-time controllable array electrode can include up to 60 elements for the active electrode and up to 4 elements for the indifferent electrode. A small switch module permits placement near the array electrode, eliminating extensive wiring. The stimulation system is fully controllable from a PC via USB interfaces.