How the non-stretchable flexible PCB can stretch
Developed Product
Picture: Working sample of an EMG with gel-less Ag/AgCl electrodes fixed as supporters
The particularity of the materials used in flexible PCB is that, while not expandable, it can be bent. Comparing it to an origami pattern, the red area buckles from the plane and becomes a curved surface in order to allow the entire sheet to stretch in appearance. As with standard flexible PCB, this stretchable PCB maintains a constant resistance value through its expansion range and allows for soldering. In addition to this, by elongating this red area, even sheets made of thick or hard materials can be easily bent or stretched. As an example, it can also be applied to making flexible PCB with thick and durable materials.
The biological electrode detects the electric the bioelectric potential such as ECG(electrocardiogram), EEG(electroencephalogram) or EMG(electromyogram).
In addition, "Generally, nickel silver or silver electrodes are used for electrode derivation of ECG or EEG though, it is recommended for monitoring to use Ag/AgCl electrodes used stably over a long time, and having low polarizing potential between the skin and the electrodes."1.
*1 Yoji Ishiyama, The Performance required for the sensor for biomedical signal measurements, The Japanese journal of medical instrumentation, Vol.80,No.1(2010), p.21.
Example of Layer constitution
Ag/AgCl biological electrode made with P-Flex® boasts an overwhelmingly low resistance to electrodes due to its copper wiring and has an advantage in that parts mounting is possible. In addition, our inkjet technology has more advantages in the following;
- Can be manufactured at a reasonable price in a short period of time because the mold is only for Ag/AgCl paste applying.
- Can be produced in medium and small batches.
- You may choose between PET film or polyimide film substrates.
- Available for material ratio adjustment of Ag/AgCl paste and prototyping for iontophoresis.
Electrodes to measure bioelectric potential.
Low cost even when produced in medium to small batches.
Applications
ECG(electrocardiogram), EEG(electroencephalogram), EMG(electromyogram)
Industries
Medical devices, human-computer interfaces, robots
