A Study on the Parameterization of Functional Electrical Stimulation Signals

–Initial investigation of the effects of amplitude, shape, burst and carrier frequency–

Abstract

Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) is a technique that induces muscle contraction by applying electrical signals to neurons through electrodes placed near them. Existing FES devices or systems have utilized varied parameter values in their stimulation, even when targeting the same limbs and functions, which could merit further investigation regarding said parameters. This paper presents initial results regarding the investigation of different signal parameters of FES stimulation signals for finger flexion. The effects of pulse amplitude, shape, burst, and carrier frequency on flexion and discomfort are discussed.