AccelBand

FreeRTOS C++ Analog Design Digital Design PCB Prototyping RF Power Management Analog Front End Low Power Wireless Power Transfer Multi-layer Design Manufacturing Systems Engineering Bluetooth Monthly Contract

The AccelBand project involved the design and development of a leg-worn transcutaneous neuromodulation device aimed at treating neurogenic bowel dysfunction in individuals with spinal cord injury. Our engineering team was responsible for creating both the hardware and embedded software solutions, including designing the stimulation, impedance measurement, and calibration circuits. On the software side, we developed an event-driven architecture using FreeRTOS and C++, ensuring the system was scalable and highly reliable. The platform is built on the nRF52832 SoC, demonstrating our expertise in delivering complex, integrated hardware and software solutions.

01

About the client

Transtimulation Research Inc (TRI) is a medical device start-up focused on developing therapeutic and diagnostic products for restoring health in people with gastrointestinal disorders. With offices in Oklahoma City, OK, and Pasadena, CA, TRI’s team consists of experienced engineers, scientists, and clinical experts. The company is supported by funding from the National Institutes of Health, highlighting its commitment to innovative healthcare solutions. TRI selected our engineering services for this project due to our proven track record in developing advanced hardware and embedded software for medical devices.

02

About the problem

TRI needed a highly specialized wearable device to provide neuromodulation therapy for patients with spinal cord injuries. The primary challenge was the complexity of integrating precise stimulation, impedance measurement, and calibration circuits into a compact, wearable form factor. Additionally, the device required robust, real-time software to manage complex signal requirements across multiple channels, ensuring the therapy was both safe and effective. The technical hurdles included managing low power consumption, ensuring reliable communication, and achieving stringent regulatory compliance for medical devices.

03

Working Methodology

Our approach began with an in-depth consultation with TRI’s engineering and clinical teams to understand the device requirements and therapeutic goals. We adopted an Agile development methodology, allowing us to adapt quickly to changes and incorporate feedback throughout the project. Key milestones included circuit design, firmware development, prototype testing, and system integration.

04

The Solution

We developed a comprehensive hardware and software solution for the AccelBand, a wearable neuromodulation device based on the nRF52840 SoC. The hardware included a custom-designed stimulation circuit to deliver precise neuromodulation, an impedance measurement circuit for real-time monitoring, and a calibration circuit to ensure consistent performance across different users. On the software side, we implemented an event-driven architecture using RTOS, with C++ programming providing the necessary flexibility and scalability. The system’s embedded software was designed to manage power efficiently and ensure reliable operation in real-world conditions.

05

The Results

The AccelBand project successfully moved from concept to feasibility, overcoming significant technical challenges related to signal processing, power management, and multi-channel coordination. The integration of a robust hardware design with a scalable software architecture resulted in a highly effective neuromodulation device. The project not only met TRI’s specifications but also set a new standard for wearable therapeutic devices in the neurogenic bowel dysfunction market. The innovative features and customizations tailored to TRI’s needs have positioned the AccelBand as a groundbreaking solution, enhancing TRI’s product portfolio and improving the quality of life for patients.

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