Electrical impedance tomography EIT
By integrating an ultrasound probe and an AI data analysis module into the EIT electrode, the problem of blurred soft tissue boundaries in EIT technology has been solved, enabling accurate identification and real-time bedside analysis of diseases such as pleural effusion and pulmonary consolidation, and improving the ability to identify critical situations.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- CN202510945032.7
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2025-07-09
- Publication Date
- 2025-10-31
- Estimated Expiration
- Not applicable · inactive patent
AI Technical Summary
Existing EIT technology suffers from blurred soft tissue boundaries in imaging, making it difficult to differentiate diseases such as pleural effusion and pulmonary consolidation, and soft tissue movement affects image accuracy.
An ultrasound probe is integrated into a disposable EIT electrode, combined with an AI data analysis module, to simultaneously acquire tissue motion information. The AI data analysis module then performs data comparison and risk assessment, triggering alarms and providing clinical decision-making suggestions.
It enhances the ability to identify soft tissue boundaries, enabling real-time identification of critical conditions such as pneumothorax and atelectasis, thereby improving the accuracy of disease identification and the real-time nature of bedside analysis.
Smart Images

Figure CN120859472A_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This invention relates to the field of obtaining cross-sectional views of the lungs, specifically electrical impedance tomography (EIT). Background Technology
[0002] Electrical impedance tomography (EIT), a non-invasive, radiation-free, bedside technique, provides regional lung ventilation and perfusion information and is widely used in the respiratory management of critically ill patients. It acquires cross-sectional images of the lungs by applying a high-frequency, low-amplitude electrical current to the chest through 16 or 32 electrodes placed on the patient's chest.
[0003] However, existing EIT technology still has the following drawbacks:
[0004] EIT technology has some significant limitations. In imaging soft tissues, the boundaries are relatively blurred, posing a challenge in differentiating diseases such as pleural effusion and pulmonary consolidation. Due to the nature of EIT imaging principles, the placement of electrodes on different planes during a single bandage can lead to variations in ventilation images, especially when soft tissues such as the diaphragm move into the measurement plane, affecting image accuracy. Summary of the Invention
[0005] The technical problem to be solved by this invention is to overcome the above-mentioned technical defects and provide electrical impedance tomography (EIT).
[0006] To solve the above problems, the technical solution of the present invention is: Electrical impedance tomography (EIT), comprising: a host for easy installation of other electrical components, a support base fixedly connected to the upper end face of the host, and a display fixedly connected to the upper end of the support base, and further comprising:
[0007] A lead wire harness, which is connected to one side of the main unit;
[0008] A scanning component is connected to the end of the lead bundle furthest from the host.
[0009] Furthermore, a buzzer is fixedly connected to one side of the main unit, and an alarm light is fixedly connected to the top of the main unit.
[0010] Furthermore, the scanning component includes:
[0011] The flexible ribbon cable has an internal cavity to facilitate the arrangement of multiple wire harnesses.
[0012] A plug, several of which are fixedly connected to the underside of a flexible ribbon cable, the plugs being connected to multiple sets of wire harnesses in the flexible ribbon cable;
[0013] An ultrasonic probe, several of which are fixedly connected to the underside of a flexible ribbon cable;
[0014] A disposable cable tie is located below a flexible ribbon cable, and a Velcro fastener is provided between the flexible ribbon cable and the disposable cable tie. The disposable cable tie is connected to the flexible ribbon cable via the Velcro fastener.
[0015] A disposable EIT electrode, several of which are fixedly connected to a disposable strap, with four disposable EIT electrodes forming a group, and a plug inserted into the upper end of the disposable EIT electrode;
[0016] Several through holes are opened on the disposable bandage. The ultrasonic probe penetrates the disposable bandage through the through holes. The lower end of the ultrasonic probe is flush with the lower end of the disposable EIT electrode. The ultrasonic probe is located in the middle of each group of disposable EIT electrodes.
[0017] Furthermore, the host computer is embedded with an AI data analysis module, and the specific workflow of the AI data analysis module is as follows:
[0018] S1. A disposable EIT electrode and a disposable strap are attached to the patient's chest, and a cross-sectional image of the lungs is obtained by applying a high-frequency, low-volt current to the patient's chest.
[0019] S2. By synchronously acquiring tissue motion information through an ultrasound probe, the problem of blurred soft tissue boundaries in EIT is solved, and the ability to differentiate diseases such as pleural effusion and pulmonary consolidation is improved.
[0020] S3. The data from the disposable EIT electrode and the ultrasonic probe is returned to the host and processed by the AI data analysis module, which performs data comparison and analysis.
[0021] After the S4 AI data analysis module detects an abnormal signal during data comparison and analysis, it transmits the data to the polymorphic simulation cross-validation. The polymorphic simulation cross-validation mobilizes the disposable EIT electrode and ultrasound probe to re-acquire cross-sectional images and compare them with the AI data analysis module. If the comparison is still abnormal, the data is transmitted to the hazard analysis and assessment for hazard assessment. At the same time, the assessment triggers a buzzer and warning light to alert the physician. The data is then transmitted to the medical terminal for data storage and provides clinical decision-making suggestions.
[0022] After the S5 and AI data analysis modules perform data comparison and analysis and find normal signals, the dynamic baseline update adaptive algorithm updates Z0: when the rate of change of impedance in the Δ region fluctuates less than the normal value for consecutive respiratory cycles, the baseline is automatically reset. At the same time, the trend database stores, analyzes, and predicts the changing patterns of time-series data, providing data-driven support for decision-making. By retrospectively displaying the data change trajectory, combined with trend analysis, anomaly labeling, and interactive operations, complex time-series data is transformed into intuitive and understandable visual cues displayed on the monitor. Physicians can then further optimize treatment plans based on the visualized data displayed on the monitor.
[0023] The advantages of this invention compared to existing technologies are:
[0024] 1. This invention integrates an ultrasound probe into a disposable EIT electrode and disposable bandage to simultaneously acquire tissue motion information, aiding in the interpretation of the physiological significance of changes in electrical impedance. This solves the problem of blurred soft tissue boundaries in EIT and improves the ability to differentiate diseases such as pleural effusion and pulmonary consolidation.
[0025] 2. This invention embeds an AI data analysis module in the host to achieve real-time bedside analysis, automatically identify critical situations such as pneumothorax and atelectasis and trigger alarms; it can also store historical patient data and track the evolution trend of the condition. Attached Figure Description
[0026] Figure 1 This is a three-dimensional illustration of the present invention. Figure 1 .
[0027] Figure 2 This is a three-dimensional illustration of the present invention. Figure 2 .
[0028] Figure 3 This is a three-dimensional schematic diagram of the scanning component of the present invention.
[0029] Figure 4 This is a three-dimensional schematic diagram of the disposable strap of the present invention.
[0030] Figure 5 This is a three-dimensional schematic diagram of the disposable EIT electrode of the present invention.
[0031] Figure 6 This is a flowchart of the AI data analysis process of the present invention.
[0032] As shown in the figure: 1. Main unit; 2. Support base; 3. Display; 4. Lead wire harness; 5. Scanning component; 501. Flexible ribbon cable; 502. Plug; 503. Ultrasonic probe; 504. Disposable strap; 505. Disposable EIT electrode; 506. Through hole; 6. Buzzer; 7. Warning light. Detailed Implementation
[0033] The technical solutions of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings of the embodiments of the present invention. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of the present invention without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.
[0034] To make the content of this invention easier to understand, the technical solutions in the embodiments of this invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.
[0035] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the technical solution of the present invention is: Electrical Impedance Tomography (EIT), comprising: a host 1 for easy installation of other electrical components, which also protects other internal electrical components through the host 1; a support base 2 is fixedly connected to the upper end face of the host 1, which supports the display 3; the display 3 is fixedly connected to the upper end of the support base 2; the display 3 is used to display the AI data analysis data through text and images for easy observation by physicians; and also includes a lead wire bundle 4 connected to one side of the host 1, and a scanning component 5 connected to the end of the lead wire bundle 4 away from the host 1, which connects the electrical components in the host 1 to the scanning component 5.
[0036] like Figure 1 As shown, a buzzer 6 is fixedly connected to one side of the main unit 1. When the patient's data changes, the buzzer 6 will sound to attract the doctor's attention. An alarm light 7 is fixedly connected to the top of the main unit 1. At the same time, the alarm light 7 will light up to further attract the doctor's attention.
[0037] like Figures 3 to 5As shown, the scanning component 5 includes a flexible ribbon cable 501 with an internal cavity to facilitate the arrangement of multiple wire bundles. These multiple wire bundles provide power to the ultrasound probe 503 and the disposable EIT electrode 505, while also facilitating data transmission from the ultrasound probe 503 and the disposable EIT electrode 505 to the AI data analysis module in the host unit 1. Several plugs 502 are fixedly connected to the lower part of the flexible ribbon cable 501, allowing for easy fixation of the plugs 502 to the ultrasound probe 503 and ensuring a more comfortable fit of the disposable strap 504 to the patient's skin. The plugs 502 are connected to the multiple wire bundles within the flexible ribbon cable 501. Several ultrasound probes 503 are fixedly connected to the lower part of the flexible ribbon cable 501. The disposable strap 504 is located below the flexible ribbon cable 501, and a Velcro fastener is provided between the flexible ribbon cable 501 and the disposable strap 504. The surgical patch allows for quick replacement of the disposable bandage 504 and the soft cable 501. This ensures hygiene and safety after use by different patients. The disposable bandage 504 is connected to the soft cable 501 via Velcro. Several disposable EIT electrodes 505 are fixedly connected to the disposable bandage 504, arranged in groups of four. A plug 502 is inserted into the upper end of each disposable EIT electrode 505. Several through holes 506 are located on the disposable bandage 504. An ultrasound probe 503 penetrates the disposable bandage 504 through the through holes 506. The lower end of the ultrasound probe 503 is flush with the lower end of each disposable EIT electrode 505. The ultrasound probe 503 is positioned in the middle of each group of disposable EIT electrodes 505. The ultrasound probe 503 simultaneously acquires tissue motion information, resolving the issue of blurred soft tissue boundaries in EIT and improving the ability to differentiate between pleural effusion and pulmonary consolidation.
[0038] like Figure 6 As shown, host 1 is embedded with an AI data analysis module. The specific workflow of the AI data analysis module is as follows:
[0039] S1. The disposable EIT electrode 505 and the disposable strap 504 are strapped to the patient's chest, and a cross-sectional image of the lungs is obtained by applying a high-frequency low-volt current to the patient's chest.
[0040] S2. By synchronously acquiring tissue motion information through the ultrasound probe 504, the problem of blurred soft tissue boundaries in EIT is solved, and the ability to differentiate diseases such as pleural effusion and pulmonary consolidation is improved.
[0041] S3. The data from the disposable EIT electrode 505 and the ultrasonic probe 504 are returned to the host 1 and processed by the AI data analysis module. The AI data analysis module performs data comparison and analysis.
[0042] After the AI data analysis module detects an abnormal signal during data comparison and analysis, it transmits the data to the polymorphic simulation cross-validation. The polymorphic simulation cross-validation mobilizes the disposable EIT electrode 505 and the ultrasound probe 503 to re-acquire the cross-sectional image and compare it with the data through the AI data analysis module. If the comparison is still abnormal, the data is transmitted to the hazard analysis and assessment for hazard assessment. At the same time, the buzzer 6 and the warning light 7 are triggered to emit sound and light to alert the physician. The data is then transmitted to the medical terminal for data storage and clinical decision-making suggestions are provided.
[0043] After the S5 and AI data analysis modules perform data comparison and analysis and find normal signals, the dynamic baseline update adaptive algorithm updates Z0: when the rate of change of impedance in the Δ2 region fluctuates less than the normal value for 10 consecutive respiratory cycles, the baseline is automatically reset. At the same time, the trend database stores, analyzes, and predicts the change patterns of time-series data to provide data-driven support for decision-making. By retrospectively displaying the data change trajectory, combined with trend analysis, anomaly labeling, and interactive operations, complex time-series data is transformed into intuitive and understandable visual cues displayed on the monitor 3. Physicians further optimize treatment plans based on the visualized data displayed on the monitor 3.
[0044] In practical use, a new disposable bandage 504 is taken out. Several disposable EIT electrodes 505 are fixedly connected to the disposable bandage 504. The disposable bandage 504 is attached to the lower end of the flexible ribbon cable 501 with Velcro. While they are attached to each other, the plug 502 is inserted into the upper end of the plug 502. At the same time, the ultrasound probe 503 penetrates the disposable bandage 504 through the through hole 506 so that the lower end of the ultrasound probe is flush with the lower end of the EIT electrode, which facilitates the fit to the patient's skin surface. First, medical conductive gel is applied to the patient's chest to reduce the contact impedance between the electrode and the skin, ensure stable current conduction, and reduce measurement noise or data distortion caused by poor contact. The disposable bandage 504 and the disposable EIT electrodes 505 are fixed to the patient's 4th-6th intercostal space. The ultrasound probe 503 is aimed at the lung base area. The system is turned on, and a high-frequency, low-amplitude current is applied to the chest through the disposable EIT electrodes 505. At the same time, the ultrasound probe 503 simultaneously acquires tissue motion information, collects EIT image data and tissue motion information, and performs preprocessing operations such as filtering, noise reduction, and feature extraction. The pre-processed data is transmitted to the AI analysis module, which automatically identifies critical conditions such as pneumothorax and atelectasis based on a trained model. If a critical condition is identified, the system immediately triggers an alarm, with buzzer 6 sounding and warning light 7 illuminating to alert medical staff to take timely action. Simultaneously, the system stores the patient's history, allowing doctors to retrieve historical data to track disease progression and adjust treatment plans accordingly. After the examination, the scanning component 5 is removed from the patient, the conductive gel is cleaned off, and the disposable strap 504 and disposable EIT electrode 505 are removed from the flexible cable strap 501 and discarded.
[0045] It will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes, modifications, substitutions and alterations can be made to these embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of the invention, the scope of which is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.
[0046] The present invention and its embodiments have been described above. This description is not restrictive, and the accompanying drawings are only one embodiment of the present invention; the actual structure is not limited thereto. In conclusion, if those skilled in the art are inspired by this description and design similar structures and embodiments without departing from the spirit of the invention, such designs should fall within the protection scope of the present invention.
Claims
1. Electrical impedance tomography (EIT), including: A host (1) for facilitating the installation of other electrical components, wherein a support base (2) is fixedly connected to the upper end face of the host (1), and a display (3) is fixedly connected to the upper end of the support base (2), characterized in that it further includes: Lead wire bundle (4), the lead wire bundle (4) is connected to one side of the host (1); Scanning component (5) is connected to the end of lead bundle (4) away from host (1).
2. The electrical impedance tomography (EIT) according to claim 1, characterized in that: A buzzer (6) is fixedly connected to one side of the main unit (1), and a warning light (7) is fixedly connected to the top side of the main unit (1).
3. The electrical impedance tomography (EIT) according to claim 2, characterized in that: The scanning component (5) includes: A flexible ribbon cable (501) has an internal cavity to facilitate the arrangement of multiple wire harnesses. A plug (502), several of the plugs (502) are fixedly connected to the underside of the flexible ribbon cable (501), and the plugs (502) are connected to multiple sets of wire harnesses in the flexible ribbon cable (501); An ultrasonic probe (503), several of the ultrasonic probes (503) are fixedly connected below a flexible ribbon cable (501); A disposable strap (504) is located below a flexible ribbon cable (501). A Velcro fastener is provided between the flexible ribbon cable (501) and the disposable strap (504). The disposable strap (504) is connected to the flexible ribbon cable (501) via the Velcro fastener. Disposable EIT electrode (505), several disposable EIT electrodes (505) are fixedly connected to disposable strap (504), the disposable EIT electrodes (505) are in groups of four, and the plug (502) is inserted into the upper end of the disposable EIT electrode (505); Through holes (506), several of the through holes (506) are opened on the disposable strap (504), the ultrasonic probe (503) penetrates the disposable strap (504) through the through holes (506), the lower end of the ultrasonic probe (503) is flush with the lower end of the disposable EIT electrode (505), and the ultrasonic probe (503) is located in the middle of each group of disposable EIT electrodes (505).
4. The electrical impedance tomography (EIT) according to claim 3, characterized in that: The host (1) is embedded with an AI data analysis module, and the specific workflow of the AI data analysis module is as follows: S1. A disposable EIT electrode (505) and a disposable strap (504) are strapped to the patient’s chest, and a cross-sectional image of the lungs is obtained by applying a high-frequency low-volt current to the patient’s chest. S2. By synchronously acquiring tissue motion information through an ultrasound probe (504), the problem of blurred soft tissue boundaries in EIT is solved, and the ability to differentiate diseases such as pleural effusion and pulmonary consolidation is improved. S3. The data from the disposable EIT electrode (505) and the ultrasonic probe (504) is returned to the host (1) and then processed by the AI data analysis module. The AI data analysis module performs data comparison and analysis. S4. After the AI data analysis module performs data comparison and analysis and an abnormal signal is found, it is transmitted to the polymorphic simulation cross-validation. The polymorphic simulation cross-validation mobilizes the disposable EIT electrode (505) and the ultrasound probe (503) to re-acquire the cross-sectional image. The AI data analysis module performs data comparison. If the comparison is still abnormal, the data is transmitted to the hazard analysis assessment for hazard assessment. At the same time, the buzzer (6) and the warning light (7) are triggered to emit sound and light to remind the doctor. The data is then transmitted to the medical terminal for data storage and clinical decision-making suggestions are provided. After the S5 AI data analysis module performs data comparison and analysis and a normal signal appears, the dynamic baseline update adaptive algorithm updates Z0: when the fluctuation of Δ2 (regional impedance change rate) is less than the normal value for 10 consecutive respiratory cycles, the baseline is automatically reset. At the same time, the data is stored, analyzed and predicted through the trend database to provide data-driven support for decision-making. By retrospectively displaying the data change trajectory, combined with trend analysis, anomaly labeling and interactive operation, complex time series data is transformed into intuitive and understandable visual cues displayed on the monitor (3). The physician further optimizes the treatment plan based on the visualized data displayed on the monitor (3).