Digital-Analogue Four-Channel Programmable Myoeltric Stimulator “TrenKorSyntez-D” for Recover Motor Activity

Abstract

Introduction. The control of complex movements, the execution of which is ensured by a certain sequence of muscle involvement in the movement, imposes special requirements on the structure of electronic devices intended for their implementation. In this case, the synthesis of multi-channel myoelectric stimulators is appropriate, the central functional unit of which is a module of artificially synthesized stimulation control programs.

The purpose of the paper is to develop a modification of a four-channel digital-analog program myoelectric stimulator for personalized adjustment of individual phases of motor activity, interaction with other phases during the execution of a complex movement to increase the efficiency of motor activity recovering.

Results. A structural and functional model of the digital-analog device “TrenKorSyntez-D” is developed. The interaction of the physician with the device, the device blocks and their interaction are described. The emphasis is on the usage of a sensory panel for input/output of information and display on it of all processes during the myoelectric stimulation. The algorithm of work, UML sequence diagrams modeling the scenarios for device working are developed. The circuit implementation of the device units based on a microcontroller, a functional and principle diagram of the channel for forming a motor stimulation signal, as well as timing diagrams for regulating the passage of manipulation and stimulation pulses are developed.

Conclusions. The theoretical and practical principles for creating a four-channel digital-analog programm myoelectric stimulator "TrenKorSyntez-D" are presented, intended for the implementation of personalized programs to recover motor activity. The development of the hardware part can provide control of the parameters of stimulation pulses and reliability of the device's operation due to the use of a microcontroller. The developed electrical circuits for generating and distributing pulses into channels make it possible to reproduce complex patterns of movements close to natural neuromuscular activity. The proposed solutions are important because they can be applied in the restoration of motor activity of both civilians and military personnel whose motor activity is affected as a result of martial law, in particular injuries and wounds.