Automated Diagnosis-Assisting Medical Devices

Abstract

A system includes an electronic stethoscope producing a quasi-periodic signal, a processor, and a memory device with stored instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the system to receive a representation of the quasi-periodic signal, to remove a DC component from the received representation of the quasi-periodic signal to produce a purely time-varying signal, and to filter, the time-varying signal to produce a pre-processed signal. A portion of the pre-processed signal is auto-correlated with itself, and a corresponding auto-correlation output is stored. A biphasic tapering function is applied to the auto-correlation output and produces a first maximum, the function including a time constant parameter that is a function of the quasi-periodic signal. A representation is stored, based on the first maximum, as an indication of a rate or frequency of the quasi-periodic signal.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14 / 210,026, titled “Automated Diagnosis-Assisting Medical Devices Utilizing Pattern Localization Of Quasi-Periodic Signals,” filed Mar. 13, 2014, which claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 787,998, titled “Automated Diagnosis-Assisting Medical Devices Utilizing Rate / Frequency Estimation And Pattern Localization Of Quasi-Periodic Signals” and filed on Mar. 15, 2013, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its respective entirety.COPYRIGHT[0002]A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains material which is subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent disclosure, as it appears in the Patent and Trademark Office patent files or records, but otherwise reserves all copyright rights whatsoever.FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0003]Vario...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The present disclosure describes a method and device for analyzing physiological signals, such as heartbeats, using advanced algorithms and techniques. The device does not require any external input from medical professionals or other devices and can provide quick and accurate results. The method uses signal templates, auto-correlation or cross-correlation, and pre-trained classifiers to search throughout the entire signal for similar patterns. The device can also utilize feature selection algorithms to reduce feature space and increase computational efficiency. The method and device can be used on electronic stethoscopes or in combination with portable devices for further analysis and interaction with medical staff. Overall, the present disclosure enhances the function of electronic stethoscopes and provides quick and accurate results for healthcare professionals.

Problems solved by technology

The signals are typically, but not necessarily limited to being quasi-periodic, and are often overlaid with noise or other artifacts.

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