Medical device comprising insertion EIT and EIT-integrated ventilation medical device

Abstract

A medical device comprising a plug-in EIT and an EIT-integrated ventilation medical device (1200), the plug-in EIT medical device comprising: a medical device body (100) comprising a main controller (101) and a plug-in unit (102) for providing a first communication interface (103), the plug-in unit (102) having a space for accommodating an insertable device or the plug-in unit (102) being an open slot; the EIT module (200) is provided with a second communication interface (201) and a sensor interface (202), the second communication interface (201) is located on the EIT module (200) and used for being connected with the first communication interface (103), and the sensor interface (202) is used for being connected with an EIT sensor (300) so that EIT signals can be collected through the EIT sensor (300); the EIT module (200) is configured to be placed in the insert unit (102) so that the EIT module (200) and the medical device body (100) are relatively fixed. The EIT module (200) is integrated into the medical device in a plug-in mode, so that the integration level of the EIT module (200) and the medical device is improved, and device management is facilitated.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present application relates to the field of medical devices, and more particularly to a medical device comprising a plug-in EIT and a ventilation medical device with an integrated EIT. Background Art

[0002] Electrical Impedance Tomography (EIT) is a non-invasive technology that reconstructs images of in vivo tissues based on the resistivity distribution within the human body. It can display regional impedance changes caused by gas-liquid content (due to ventilation or perfusion) in the measured area, as well as regional impedance changes caused by short-term changes in end-tidal lung volume in the measured area. EIT is non-invasive and provides real-time display, making it applicable to lung image monitoring and extremely valuable in diagnostic analysis and clinical research of lung ventilation and perfusion.

[0003] Most existing EIT products only offer EIT-related functions and are difficult to integrate with related medical devices such as ventilators, anesthesia machines, and monitors. A few EIT products can connect to ventilators and other medical devices via cables, but this requires additional space within the medical device and the modules and cables require secure management, resulting in low integration with the medical device and inconvenience. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The Summary of the Invention introduces a series of simplified concepts that will be further described in the Detailed Description of the Invention. The Summary of the Invention of this application is not intended to limit the key features and essential technical features of the claimed technical solution, nor is it intended to determine the scope of protection of the claimed technical solution.

[0005] In a first aspect, an embodiment of the present application provides a medical device including a plug-in EIT, the medical device comprising: a medical device body, the medical device body comprising a main controller and a plug-in unit, the plug-in unit being used to provide a first communication interface, the plug-in unit having a space for accommodating an insertable device or the plug-in unit being an open slot; an EIT module having a second communication interface and a sensor interface, the second communication interface being located on the EIT module and being used to connect to the first communication interface, the sensor interface being used to connect to an EIT sensor to collect EIT signals through the EIT sensor; the EIT module being configured to be placed in the plug-in unit so that the EIT module is fixed relative to the medical device body.

[0006] A second aspect of an embodiment of the present application provides a ventilation medical device with integrated EIT, wherein the ventilation medical device includes a main control module, a mechanical ventilation module and an EIT module, and the EIT module is integrated into the ventilation medical device, wherein: the mechanical ventilation module is used to provide mechanical ventilation for the patient and collect monitoring data during the mechanical ventilation process; the EIT module is at least used to collect the EIT signal of the patient, and the main control module is communicatively connected to the mechanical ventilation module, and the EIT module is communicatively connected to at least one of the mechanical ventilation module and the main control module.

[0007] The medical device containing a plug-in EIT in the embodiments of the present application integrates the EIT module into the medical device in the form of a plug-in, thereby integrating information from the EIT module and the medical device to achieve comprehensive medical treatment results. Furthermore, the universal plug-in EIT module can be seamlessly switched between different medical devices. The plug-in integration of the EIT module into the medical device eliminates the need for cables between the EIT module and the medical device, improving the integration of the EIT module and the medical device and facilitating device management. The ventilation medical device in the embodiments of the present application integrates the EIT module, thereby integrating information from the EIT module and the ventilation medical device, facilitating comprehensive diagnostic analysis and medical treatment for patients undergoing mechanical ventilation. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] In order to more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present application, the following briefly introduces the drawings required for use in the description of the embodiments. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present application. For ordinary technicians in this field, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without any creative work.

[0009] In the attached figure:

[0010] Figure 1 A block diagram showing a structure of a medical device including a plug-in EIT according to one embodiment of the present application is shown;

[0011] Figure 2 A structural block diagram of a medical device including a plug-in EIT according to a specific embodiment of the present application is shown;

[0012] Figure 3 A structural block diagram of a medical device including a plug-in EIT according to a specific embodiment of the present application is shown;

[0013] Figure 4 A structural block diagram of a medical device including a plug-in EIT according to a specific embodiment of the present application is shown;

[0014] Figure 5A structural block diagram of a medical device including a plug-in EIT according to a specific embodiment of the present application is shown;

[0015] Figure 6 A schematic diagram showing a plug-in unit in the form of a plug-in box according to an embodiment of the present application;

[0016] Figure 7 A schematic diagram showing a plug-in unit in the form of an open slot according to an embodiment of the present application;

[0017] Figure 8 A schematic diagram showing the width, depth, and height of an EIT module according to an embodiment of the present application;

[0018] Figure 9 A schematic diagram showing the width, depth and height of a plug-in unit according to one embodiment of the present application;

[0019] Figure 10 A schematic diagram showing a multi-slot plug-in unit according to one embodiment of the present application is shown;

[0020] Figure 11 A schematic diagram showing a first fixing structure and a second fixing structure according to an embodiment of the present application;

[0021] Figure 12 A schematic block diagram of a ventilation medical device according to an embodiment of the present application is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0022] In order to make the purpose, technical solutions and advantages of the present application more apparent, the following is a detailed description of example embodiments of the present application with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only part of the embodiments of the present application, rather than all the embodiments of the present application, and it should be understood that the present application is not limited to the example embodiments described herein. Based on the embodiments of the present application described in this application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative work should fall within the scope of protection of this application.

[0023] In the following description, a large number of specific details are provided to provide a more thorough understanding of the present application. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the present application can be implemented without one or more of these details. In other examples, some technical features well known in the art are not described in order to avoid confusion with the present application.

[0024] It should be understood that the present application can be implemented in different forms and should not be interpreted as being limited to the embodiments set forth herein. On the contrary, providing these embodiments will make the disclosure thorough and complete and will fully convey the scope of the present application to those skilled in the art.

[0025] The purpose of the terms used herein is only to describe specific embodiments and is not intended to limit the present application. When used herein, the singular forms "a", "an", and "the" are intended to include the plural forms, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It should also be understood that the terms "comprising" and / or "including", when used in this specification, determine the presence of the features, integers, steps, operations, elements and / or parts, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, parts and / or groups. When used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of the relevant listed items.

[0026] In order to fully understand the present application, a detailed structure will be provided in the following description to illustrate the technical solution proposed by the present application. The optional embodiments of the present application are described in detail below. However, in addition to these detailed descriptions, the present application may also have other implementation methods.

[0027] First refer to Figure 1 The present application describes a medical device including a plug-in EIT in an embodiment, which includes: a medical device body 100, the medical device body including a main controller 101 and a plug-in unit 102, the plug-in unit 102 is used to provide a first communication interface 104, the plug-in unit 102 has a space for accommodating an insertable device or the plug-in unit is an open slot; an EIT module 105, having a second communication interface 106 and a sensor interface 107, the second communication interface 106 is located on the EIT module 105, the second communication interface 106 is used to connect to the first communication interface 104, and the sensor interface 107 is used to connect to the EIT sensor 108 to collect EIT signals through the EIT sensor 108; the EIT module 105 is configured to be placed in the plug-in unit 102, so that the EIT module 105 is relatively fixed to the medical device body 100.

[0028] In an embodiment of the present application, a plug-in unit 102 is provided within a medical device. An EIT module 200 is integrated into the medical device via the plug-in unit 102. A first communication interface 103 of the EIT module 200 establishes a communication connection with a second communication interface 201 of the plug-in unit 102 for transmitting EIT signals or processed data from the EIT signals. This allows for information integration between the EIT module 200 and the medical device, achieving comprehensive medical treatment outcomes. Furthermore, the EIT module 200 can seamlessly switch between different medical devices. Furthermore, because the EIT module 200 is integrated into the medical device as a plug-in in this embodiment, the EIT module 200 is relatively fixed to the main body of the medical device, eliminating the need for cables between the EIT module 200 and the medical device. This improves the integration between the EIT module 200 and the medical device, facilitating storage and management of the EIT module 200. For example, the medical device includes a ventilator, anesthesia machine, or monitor that can be used to collect patient physiological parameters. Integrating the EIT module 200 into the medical device facilitates comprehensive analysis of the patient's lung ventilation, perfusion, and other aspects.

[0029] For example, to integrate information from the EIT module 200 with that of the medical device, the processed data obtained by processing the EIT signal can be integrated with the medical device data and displayed on the medical device's display, allowing the user to view both the EIT data and the medical device data simultaneously. Furthermore, the processed data can be fused and analyzed with the medical device data to produce a fusion analysis result, which can be a new parameter derived from the combined processing data and the medical device data. The fusion analysis result can be displayed on the display of the ventilation medical device or on a display of a third-party device such as a central station. The processed data and the medical device data can be integrated, displayed, or fused for analysis by the EIT module 200, the main controller 101, other controllers within the medical device, or a controller of a third-party device.

[0030] In one embodiment, see Figure 2The EIT module 200 includes an EIT data acquisition unit 204 and an EIT data processing unit 205. The sensor interface 202 is provided in the EIT data acquisition unit 204, and the second communication interface 201 is provided in the EIT data processing unit 205. The EIT data acquisition unit 204 is used to collect EIT signals through the EIT sensor 300. The EIT data processing unit 205 is configured to establish a communication connection with the EIT data acquisition unit 204 to obtain the EIT signals collected by the EIT data acquisition unit 204 and perform data processing on the EIT signals to obtain processed data. The processed data can be integrated with the data of the medical device and displayed on the display of the medical device. The processed data can also be integrated with the data of the medical device and displayed on the display of a third-party device. For example, the integrated display of the processed data and the data of the medical device can be controlled by the EIT data processing unit 205, the main controller 101, other controllers within the medical device, or the controller of the third-party device.

[0031] For example, the processed data can be fused and analyzed with the data from the medical device to obtain a fused analysis result. For example, the processed data can be combined with the ventilation parameters of the medical device to generate a new parameter, enabling diagnostic analysis related to lung ventilation and perfusion, etc., which can be provided to medical staff to determine the patient's condition. If the plug-in unit also integrates other plug-in devices, the processed data can also be fused with data from different plug-in devices. For example, the EIT data processing unit 205, the main controller 101, other controllers within the medical device, or the controller of a third-party device can perform a fused analysis of the processed data with the data from the medical device.

[0032] In this embodiment, the EIT module 200 integrates data acquisition and data processing and is integrated into the medical device as a plug-in. This eliminates the need to pre-configure EIT-related functional modules within the medical device, making the EIT module 200 easy to install and remove. For example, the EIT data processing unit 205 and the EIT data acquisition unit 204 are two communicatively connected units, allowing either unit to be replaced independently.

[0033] The EIT module 200 of this embodiment performs both data acquisition and data processing functions, and transmits processed data, such as EIT image data, via an interface unit. The first communication interface 103 and the second communication interface 201 can utilize contact-based communication methods such as serial ports, wired networks, and USB. However, the communication connection between the first communication interface 103 and the second communication interface 201 can also utilize contactless communication methods such as infrared, Bluetooth, WiFi, 4G, and 5G.

[0034] Illustratively, the plug-in unit 102 includes at least one slot, each of which is connectable to the main controller 101. The main controller 101 identifies the EIT module 200 by recognizing the identifier of the device plugged into the slot and establishes a communication connection with the EIT module 200. A user can establish a communication connection between the EIT module 200 and the main controller 101 by inserting the EIT module 200 into any slot.

[0035] In another embodiment, see Figure 3 The medical device also includes a first controller 105; the EIT module 200 includes an EIT data acquisition unit 204, the second communication interface 201 and the sensor interface 202 are set in the EIT data acquisition unit 204, and the EIT data acquisition unit 204 is located in the EIT module 200; the EIT module 200 is used to send the EIT signal to the first controller 105 through the first communication interface 103 and the second communication interface 201, and the first controller 105 is used to process the EIT signal to obtain processed data.

[0036] In this embodiment, the EIT module 200 includes an EIT data acquisition unit 204, which is responsible for collecting EIT signals and transmitting them to the first controller 105 for complex EIT data processing. Compared to integrating data acquisition and processing functions, transferring data processing to the first controller 105 reduces the size of the EIT module 200 and the size of the first controller 105, thereby avoiding excessive space occupation within the medical device.

[0037] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the EIT data acquisition unit 204 is integrated into the medical device in the form of a plug-in, and EIT signals are transmitted via the plug-in unit 102. Since the data volume of the unprocessed EIT signals is relatively small and the bandwidth requirement is relatively low, serial communication can be used between the first communication interface 103 and the second communication interface 201, rather than being restricted to cable-based communication or high-cost wireless communication methods such as 4G, 5G, and WiFi. This avoids the inconvenience of cable-based communication and the high cost of wireless communication. Of course, the first communication interface 103 and the second communication interface 201 can also communicate using contactless communication methods such as infrared, Bluetooth, WiFi, 4G, and 5G, enabling seamless switching of the EIT data acquisition unit 204.

[0038] Illustratively, the second communication interface 201 is located on a first side of the EIT module 200 , and the sensor interface 202 is located on a second side of the EIT module 200 opposite to the first side, so that both sides of the EIT module 200 are connected to the plug-in unit 102 and the EIT sensor 300 , respectively.

[0039] Exemplarily, the EIT data acquisition unit 204 further includes an EIT data acquisition circuit and an EIT data front-end processing circuit, wherein the EIT data acquisition circuit is used to control the EIT sensor 300 to collect EIT signals, and the EIT data front-end processing circuit is used to perform simple front-end processing such as analog-to-digital conversion on the EIT signals.

[0040] The EIT module 200 transmits the EIT signals collected by the EIT data acquisition unit 204 to the first controller 105 via the plug-in unit 102, which processes the data to produce processed data. The processed data includes EIT image data and may also include data obtained from further analysis of the EIT image data. The processed data can be integrated with the medical device data and displayed on a display of the medical device or a third-party device. Furthermore, the processed data can be fused and analyzed with the medical device data to produce a fused analysis result. For example, the processed data can be combined with the ventilation parameters of the medical device to generate a new parameter, enabling diagnostic analysis related to lung ventilation and perfusion, etc., which can be provided to medical staff for diagnosing the patient's condition. For example, the integrated display and fused analysis of the processed data with the medical device data can be controlled by the first controller 105, the main controller 101, other controllers within the medical device, or a controller of a third-party device.

[0041] For example, the plug-in unit 102 includes at least one slot, each of which can be connected to the first controller 105. The first controller 105 identifies the EIT module 200 by recognizing the identifier of the device plugged into the slot and establishes a communication connection with the EIT data module. This eliminates the need for users to distinguish between different slots; inserting the EIT data module into any slot enables communication between the EIT data acquisition unit 204 and the first controller 105. The device identifier can include a software ID or a hardware ID.

[0042] In one embodiment, the first controller 105 is independent of the main controller 101 of the medical device and is communicatively connected to the main controller 101. The main controller 101 of the medical device is also configured to acquire processed data through a communication connection with the first controller 105 and control a display to display the processed data and medical device data, thereby integrating EIT information with the medical device. In this embodiment, if the plug-in unit 102 includes at least two slots, each slot of the plug-in unit 102 can also be connected to the main controller 101 of the medical device. The main controller 101 identifies the EIT data acquisition unit 204 based on the device's identification and controls the data acquisition unit to communicate with the first controller 105. The communication between the first controller 105 and the main controller 101 can utilize contact methods such as wired networks and USB, or non-contact methods such as infrared, Bluetooth, WiFi, 4G, and 5G.

[0043] The first controller 105 utilizes a dedicated processor independent of the main controller 101. This is because EIT data processing requires very high processor computing power, and existing main controllers 101 in medical devices such as ventilators lack sufficient performance, necessitating an upgrade to a more expensive, high-performance processor. Given that EIT is an optional feature on medical devices, this would significantly increase the cost of the device. Adding a dedicated processor for EIT not only meets the performance requirements of EIT integration in medical devices, but also reduces the development complexity of EIT integration and keeps the overall cost at a reasonable level. Because the first controller 105 is solely used for EIT data processing, its small size allows it to be located inside the main body of the medical device without taking up excessive space. Alternatively, the first controller 105 can be located externally to the medical device and communicate with the main controller 101 via wireless communication. When located externally, the first controller 105 can be a dedicated device solely for processing EIT signals, or it can be implemented in an electronic device such as a PAD.

[0044] In another embodiment, see Figure 4 The EIT module 200 may include an EIT data acquisition / processing unit 206. The second communication interface 201 and the sensor interface 202 are provided in the EIT data acquisition / processing unit 206. The EIT data acquisition / processing unit 206 is located in the EIT module 200. In addition to acquiring EIT signals, the EIT module 200 is also used to process the EIT signals to obtain processed data.

[0045] For example, the processed data can be integrated with the medical device data and displayed on a display of the medical device or a third-party device. Furthermore, the processed data can be fused and analyzed with the medical device data to obtain fused analysis results. The integrated display and fused analysis of the processed data and the medical device data can be controlled by the EIT data acquisition / processing unit 206, the main controller 101, another controller of the medical device, or a controller of the third-party device.

[0046] In this embodiment, the EIT module 200 integrates data acquisition and data processing functions and is integrated into the medical device as a plug-in. This eliminates the need to pre-configure EIT-related functional modules within the medical device, making the EIT module 200 easy to install and remove. For example, the EIT module 200 is internally provided with a battery for powering it. Alternatively, the plug-in unit 102 has a first power interface 104, and the EIT module 200 has a second power interface 203 for connecting to the first power interface 104. The EIT module 200 is powered by the plug-in unit 102 of the medical device.

[0047] The EIT module 200 of this embodiment performs both data acquisition and data processing functions, and transmits processed data, such as EIT image data, via an interface unit. The first communication interface 103 and the second communication interface 201 can communicate via contact methods such as serial ports, wired networks, and USB. The communication connection between the first communication interface 103 and the second communication interface 201 can also utilize contactless communication methods such as infrared, Bluetooth, WiFi, 4G, and 5G.

[0048] Illustratively, the plug-in unit 102 includes at least one slot, each of which is connected to the main controller 101. The main controller 101 identifies the EIT module 200 by recognizing the identifier of the device plugged into the slot and establishes a communication connection with the EIT module 200. A user can establish a communication connection between the EIT module 200 and the main controller 101 by inserting the EIT module 200 into any slot.

[0049] In yet another embodiment, see Figure 5 The EIT module 200 includes an EIT data acquisition unit 204. The second communication interface 201 and the sensor interface 202 are provided in the EIT data acquisition unit 204. The EIT data acquisition unit 204 is located in the EIT module 200. After the EIT module 200 acquires the EIT signal, it can send the EIT signal to the main controller 101 of the medical device via the first communication interface 103 and the second communication interface 201. The main controller 101 processes the EIT signal to obtain processed data.

[0050] For example, the processed data can be integrated with the data from the medical device and displayed on a display of the medical device or a third-party device. Furthermore, the processed data can be fused and analyzed with the data from the medical device to obtain fused analysis results. The integrated display and fused analysis of the processed data and the data from the medical device can be controlled by the main controller 101, another controller of the medical device, or a controller of the third-party device.

[0051] and Figure 3 Similarly, the EIT module 200 of this embodiment only includes an EIT data acquisition unit 204, but does not include an EIT data processing unit 205. The difference is that in this embodiment, the main controller 101 of the medical device is responsible for EIT data processing, so there is no need to add additional functional modules to the medical device body, thereby reducing the internal space occupied by the medical device.

[0052] In this embodiment, since the EIT signal transmitted via the plug-in unit 102 is a relatively small data volume, contact communication methods such as serial ports can be used between the first communication interface 103 and the second communication interface 201, which reduces costs compared to contactless communication methods. Since the EIT module 200 only includes the EIT data acquisition unit, it is relatively small in size, thus avoiding excessive space occupation within the medical device.

[0053] The EIT module 200 of the present embodiment is compatible with the plug-in unit 102 of a medical device in terms of size, installation, power supply, and communication interface. By being integrated into the medical device through plug-in installation, it not only allows the medical device's plug-in module to be shared, saving space and reducing user costs. Furthermore, the plug-in unit 102 of the medical device can also simultaneously support other plug-in devices, such as a CO2 module or an SPO2 module, enabling the integration of multiple parameters.

[0054] Exemplarily, a battery is provided inside the EIT module 200, which is powered by the battery; alternatively, the plug-in unit 102 has a first power interface 104, and the EIT module 200 has a second power interface 203, which is used to connect to the first power interface 104, and the EIT module 200 is powered by the plug-in unit 102 of the medical device.

[0055] As described above, the plug-in unit 102 may have a space to accommodate a plug-in device, or the plug-in unit 102 may be an open slot. Figure 6 The plug-in unit 102 having a space for accommodating a plug-in device can be called a plug-in box, which is in a semi-enclosed form. The first communication interface 103 and the first power interface 104 are hidden inside the plug-in box. Figure 6The plug-in unit 102 is shown as accommodating the horizontal insertion of a plug-in device such as the EIT module 200, or alternatively, the plug-in unit 102 can also accommodate the vertical or oblique insertion of a plug-in device. Figure 7 , shows an embodiment of an open slot, wherein the open slot includes a platform for placing an EIT module 200. Once inserted into the slot, the EIT module 200 is secured to the open slot via a fixing structure on the slot. The open slot is provided with a first communication interface, and the bottom of the EIT module is provided with a second communication interface. Insertion of the EIT module 200 into the slot establishes a communication connection between the first and second communication interfaces. The provision of the plug-in unit 102 enables the EIT module 200 to be relatively fixed to the medical device body 100, facilitating storage and management of the device.

[0056] Preferably, for a plug-in unit 102 having a space for accommodating an insertable device, after the EIT module 200 is placed in the plug-in unit 102, the depth inside the plug-in unit 102 is not less than the depth outside the plug-in unit 102, thereby minimizing the use space of the medical device and improving the integration. Figure 8 、 Figure 9 , Figure 8 shows the depth, height and width of the EIT unit, Figure 5 The depth, width and height of the plug-in unit 102 are shown, the height of the EIT module 200 is slightly smaller than the height of the plug-in unit 102 , and the depth of the plug-in unit 102 is greater than half the depth of the EIT module 200 and smaller than the depth of the EIT module 200 .

[0057] The plug-in unit 102 can be in the form of a single slot or multiple slots. A single slot means that there is only one slot provided with the first communication interface 103, the first power interface 104 and the first fixing structure 106, and only supports the installation of one plug-in device. A multiple slot means that there are at least two slots at the same time, and the width or height dimensions are integer multiples of the single slot. Figure 10 A schematic diagram of a three-slot plug-in unit 102 is shown. In addition to integrating the EIT module 200, the multi-slot plug-in unit 102 can also simultaneously support the integration of at least one other plug-in device, such as an SPO2 module or a CO2 module. For a multi-slot plug-in unit 102, the plug-in unit 102 and the EIT module 200 are configured so that after the EIT module 200 is placed in the plug-in unit 102, the remaining space in the plug-in unit 102 can still accommodate at least one other plug-in device. Specifically, the width of the plug-in unit 102 can be approximately an integer multiple of the width of the EIT module 200.

[0058] In one embodiment, the plug-in unit 102 may be a new plug-in unit 102 independent of the plug-in units 102 for CO2 and SPO2 modules, etc., and is dedicated to plugging in the EIT module 200. The plug-in unit 102 dedicated to plugging in the EIT module 200 may be a single-slot plug-in unit 102.

[0059] In one embodiment, in order to ensure that the EIT module 200 is firmly integrated into the medical device body, the plug-in unit 102 has a first fixing structure and the EIT module 200 has a second fixing structure. The first fixing structure and the second fixing structure cooperate with each other to fix the EIT module 200 relative to the plug-in unit 102. For example, see Figure 11 The first fixing structure 106 includes a limiting structure provided in the plug-in unit 102, and the second fixing structure 207 includes a supporting structure provided on the EIT module 200. The supporting structure and the limiting structure are supported against each other to fix the EIT data acquisition unit 204 relative to the plug-in unit 102. Furthermore, the fixing structure can be implemented as a groove, and the supporting structure can be implemented as a movable spring. When the EIT data acquisition unit 204 is inserted into the plug-in unit 102, the movable spring cooperates with the groove to achieve fixation, and can be unlocked by pressing the spring. In other embodiments, the first fixing structure 106 and the second fixing interface can also refer to the first communication interface 103 and the second communication interface 201, or the first power interface 104 and the second power interface 203, that is, the EIT module 200 is fixed by the cooperation between the interfaces.

[0060] In one embodiment, the EIT module 200 further includes a shortcut button for triggering the medical device or the EIT module 200 to perform a preset operation, such as triggering the medical device to display a preset interface or triggering the EIT module 200 to automatically calibrate. When a user clicks this shortcut button, a corresponding interface, such as the EIT interactive interface, pops up on the medical device's display. Alternatively, the user clicks this shortcut button to automatically calibrate the EIT module 200. For ease of operation, the shortcut button can be located on the same side of the EIT module 200 as the sensor interface 202, i.e., on the opposite side of the second communication interface 201.

[0061] In one embodiment, the EIT module 200 further includes an indicator light for indicating whether the EIT module 200 is operating normally. For easy viewing, the indicator light can be provided on the same side of the EIT module 200 as the shortcut key.

[0062] Based on the above description, the medical device including a plug-in EIT in the embodiments of the present application integrates the EIT module into the medical device in the form of a plug-in, facilitating the integration of information between the EIT module and the medical device, achieving comprehensive medical treatment results. Furthermore, the plug-in EIT module can be seamlessly switched between different medical devices. Furthermore, because the EIT module is integrated into the medical device in the form of a plug-in, the EIT module is relatively fixed to the main body of the medical device, eliminating the need for cables between the EIT module and the medical device. This improves the integration between the EIT module and the medical device, facilitating the storage and management of the EIT module.

[0063] Another aspect of the present application embodiment provides a ventilation medical device with integrated EIT, referring to Figure 12 The ventilation medical device 1200 includes a mechanical ventilation module 1201, an EIT module 1202 and a main control module 1203. The EIT module 1202 is integrated into the ventilation medical device 1200, wherein: the mechanical ventilation module 1201 is used to provide mechanical ventilation for the patient and collect monitoring data during the mechanical ventilation process; the EIT module 1202 is at least used to collect the patient's EIT signal, and the main control module 1203 is communicatively connected to the mechanical ventilation module 1201, and the EIT module 1202 is communicatively connected to at least one of the mechanical ventilation module 1201 and the main control module 1203.

[0064] In the embodiment of the present application, the EIT module 1202 is integrated into the ventilation medical device, meaning that the EIT module 1202 is directly connected to the ventilation medical device, rather than indirectly connected via a cable. The EIT module 1202 can be integrated into the ventilation medical device as a plug-in unit, or it can be embedded within the ventilation medical device. Integrating the EIT module 1202 into the ventilation medical device not only integrates information between the EIT and the medical device, achieving comprehensive ventilation medical effects, but also eliminates the need for cables connecting the EIT module 1202 to the ventilation medical device, facilitating device management.

[0065] Ventilation medical equipment includes ventilators, anesthesia machines, and other medical devices capable of providing mechanical ventilation to patients. When a patient's respiratory system is unable to complete normal spontaneous breathing, the mechanical ventilation module 1201 of the ventilation medical equipment can provide mechanical ventilation to the patient to provide respiratory support. The mechanical ventilation module 1201 can include a flow or pressure monitoring module and a control module. The control module can adjust the ventilation flow or pressure based on the values ​​monitored by the monitoring module. The mechanical ventilation module 1201 can also include a pressure-generating device, such as a turbine, that communicates with the ventilation line to deliver gas at a set flow or pressure to the patient through the ventilation line. The main control module 1203 receives user adjustment and operation commands and transmits them to the mechanical ventilation module 1201 for execution. The mechanical ventilation module 1201 controls the valves / turbines to achieve ventilation and measures ventilation parameters through sensors, transmitting these parameters to the main control module 1203. The main control module 1203 can control a display to display the waveforms and values ​​of the ventilation parameters and display alarm information, etc. The main control module 1203 can also communicate with the outside world through a network to achieve device interconnection. The EIT module 1202 can be connected to the mechanical ventilation module 1201 or the main control module 1203 for communication.

[0066] Exemplarily, in order to integrate the information of the EIT module 1202 and the mechanical ventilation module 1201, the processed data obtained by processing the EIT signal can be integrated with the monitoring data of the mechanical ventilation module 1201 and displayed on the display of the ventilation medical device. Furthermore, the processed data can be fused and analyzed with the data of the mechanical ventilation module 1201 to obtain a fusion analysis result, which can be a new parameter obtained by integrating the processed data with the monitoring data of the mechanical ventilation module. The fusion analysis result can be displayed on the display of the ventilation medical device or on the display of a third-party device such as a central station. The processed data and the data of the mechanical ventilation module 1201 can be integrated, displayed or fused by the mechanical ventilation module 1201, the EIT module 1202, the main control module 1203, other controllers in the ventilation medical device, or the controller of a third-party device such as a central station.

[0067] For example, if the EIT module 1202 is integrated into the ventilation medical device in the form of a plug-in, a battery is provided inside the EIT module 1202 to power it; or, the plug-in unit of the ventilation medical device has a power interface, and the EIT module 1202 is powered by the plug-in unit of the medical device.

[0068] In one embodiment, the EIT module 1202 includes an EIT data acquisition unit and an EIT data processing unit. The EIT data acquisition unit is used to acquire EIT signals, and the EIT data processing unit is used to process the EIT signals to obtain processed data. The EIT data acquisition unit and the EIT data processing unit are located in the EIT module 1202. For example, after obtaining the processed data, the EIT data processing unit may send the processed data to the main control module 1203, the mechanical ventilation module 1201, store the data within the EIT module, or send the data to a third-party device.

[0069] In this embodiment, the EIT module 1202 integrates data acquisition and data processing. It can be integrated into the ventilation medical device as a plug-in, eliminating the need to pre-configure EIT-related functional modules within the ventilation medical device and facilitating the removal, assembly, and transfer of the EIT module 1202. Specifically, the ventilation medical device includes a plug-in unit, into which the EIT module 1202 is inserted for integration. The detailed structure of the plug-in unit is described above. Alternatively, the EIT module 1202 can be embedded within the ventilation medical device, eliminating the need to plug the EIT module 1202 into the ventilation medical device when the ventilation medical device needs to implement EIT functionality.

[0070] The EIT module 1202 of this embodiment has both data acquisition and data processing functions. For example, if the EIT module 1202 is integrated into the ventilation medical device as a plug-in, the EIT module 1202 can communicate with the main control module 1203 or the mechanical ventilation module 1201 using contact communication methods such as serial ports, or non-contact communication methods such as infrared, Bluetooth, WiFi, 4G, and 5G. If the EIT module 1202 is embedded within the medical device, data can be transmitted between the EIT module 1202 and the mechanical ventilation module 1201 or the main control module 1203 using wired communication.

[0071] Exemplarily, the processed data can be integrated with the monitoring data of the mechanical ventilation module 1201 and displayed on the display of the ventilation medical device. The processed data can also be integrated with the monitoring data of the mechanical ventilation module 1201 and displayed on the display of a third-party device. Furthermore, the processed data can be fused and analyzed with the monitoring data of the mechanical ventilation module 1201 to obtain a fusion analysis result. For example, the processed data can be combined with the monitoring data to generate a new parameter to achieve diagnostic analysis related to lung ventilation and perfusion, etc., and provide it to medical staff to make a judgment on the patient's condition. Exemplarily, the integrated display and fusion analysis of the processed data and the monitoring data of the mechanical ventilation module 1201 can be controlled by the EIT data processing unit, the main control module 1203, the mechanical ventilation module 1201, other controllers in the ventilation medical device, or the controller of the third-party device.

[0072] In another embodiment, the ventilation medical device further includes a first controller; the EIT module 1202 includes an EIT data acquisition unit, which is located within the EIT module 1202; the EIT module 1202 is configured to transmit EIT signals to the first controller, which is configured to process the EIT signals to obtain processed data. Compared to integrating data acquisition and data processing functions, transferring the data processing function to the first controller reduces the size of the EIT module 1202 and the first controller, thereby avoiding excessive space occupation within the ventilation medical device.

[0073] In this embodiment, the EIT data acquisition unit can be embedded and integrated inside the ventilation medical device, or it can be integrated into the ventilation medical device in the form of a plug-in. When the EIT data acquisition unit is embedded and integrated into the ventilation medical device, a contact or contactless communication method can be used between the EIT data acquisition unit and the first controller. When the EIT data acquisition unit is integrated into the medical device in the form of a plug-in, the EIT signal can be transmitted through the plug-in unit. Since the amount of EIT signal data that has not been image processed is small and the bandwidth requirement is low, a contact communication method such as a serial port can be used between the EIT data acquisition unit and the first controller, which is convenient to manage and low in cost. Of course, the EIT data acquisition unit and the first controller can also be connected by contactless communication methods such as WiFi, 4G, 5G, etc. to increase the data transmission speed.

[0074] In one embodiment, the first controller is independent of the main control module 1203 of the mechanical ventilation module 1201 and is in communication with the main control module 1203. The main control module 1203 can obtain processed data through the communication connection with the first controller and perform integrated display and fusion analysis, thereby integrating information between the EIT and the mechanical ventilation module. The communication between the first controller and the main control module 1203 can use contact data transmission or contactless data transmission.

[0075] The first controller can be a processor dedicated to processing EIT signals. When the first controller is a dedicated processor independent of the main control module, it can meet the performance requirements of EIT integrated into ventilation medical devices while reducing the development complexity of EIT integration and keeping the total cost at a reasonable level. Because the first controller is only used for EIT data processing, its small size allows it to be embedded within the main body of the medical device without occupying excessive space. Alternatively, the first controller can also serve as the control module for the mechanical ventilation module 1201, reducing hardware overhead.

[0076] In another embodiment, the EIT module 1202 may include an EIT data acquisition / processing unit, which is located within the EIT module 1202. In addition to acquiring EIT signals, the EIT module 1202 is also configured to process the EIT signals to obtain processed data. The EIT module 1202 may then transmit the processed data to the main control module 1203 or the mechanical ventilation module 1201. The processed data may be integrated with the monitoring data from the mechanical ventilation module 1201 and displayed on a display of the ventilation medical device or a third-party device. Furthermore, the processed data may be fused and analyzed with the monitoring data from the mechanical ventilation module 1201 to obtain a fused analysis result. For example, the integrated display and fused analysis of the processed data with the monitoring data from the mechanical ventilation module 1201 may be controlled by the EIT data acquisition / processing unit, the mechanical ventilation module 1201, the main control module 1203, other controllers within the ventilation medical device, or a controller of a third-party device.

[0077] The EIT module 1202, including the EIT data acquisition / processing unit, can be integrated into the ventilation medical device as a plug-in or embedded system. When integrated into the ventilation medical device as a plug-in, the communication connection between the EIT module 1202 and the ventilation medical device can use contact communication to save costs, or can use non-contact communication methods such as infrared, Bluetooth, and WiFi.

[0078] In another embodiment, the EIT module 1202 includes an EIT data acquisition unit, which is located within the EIT module 1202. The EIT module 1202 can be integrated into the ventilation medical device in the form of a plug-in or embedded system. When integrated into the ventilation medical device in the form of a plug-in, the communication connection between the EIT module 1202 and the ventilation medical device can use contact communication to save costs, or can use non-contact communication methods such as infrared, Bluetooth, and WiFi.

[0079] After collecting the EIT signal, the EIT module 1202 can send the EIT signal to the main control module 1203, which processes the EIT signal to obtain processed data. The processed data can be integrated with the monitoring data from the mechanical ventilation module 1201 and displayed on the display of the ventilation medical device. The processed data can also be integrated with the monitoring data from the mechanical ventilation module 1201 and displayed on the display of a third-party device. Furthermore, the processed data can be fused and analyzed with the monitoring data from the mechanical ventilation module 1201 to obtain a fused analysis result. For example, the processed data can be combined with the monitoring data to generate a new parameter to enable diagnostic analysis related to lung ventilation and perfusion, etc., which can be provided to medical staff to determine the patient's condition. For example, the integrated display and fused analysis of the processed data and the monitoring data from the mechanical ventilation module 1201 can be controlled by the main control module 1203, other controllers within the ventilation medical device, or a controller of a third-party device. The ventilation medical device of the present embodiment shares many common or similar details with the aforementioned medical device incorporating a plug-in EIT. For details, please refer to the relevant description above. The ventilation medical device of the present embodiment integrates an EIT module, thereby integrating information from the EIT module and the ventilation medical device, facilitating comprehensive diagnostic analysis and medical treatment for mechanically ventilated patients.

[0080] Although example embodiments have been described herein with reference to the accompanying drawings, it should be understood that the above example embodiments are merely illustrative and are not intended to limit the scope of the present application. Various changes and modifications may be made therein by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the present application. All such changes and modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present application as required by the appended claims.

[0081] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the units and algorithm steps of each example described in conjunction with the embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented in electronic hardware, or a combination of computer software and electronic hardware. Whether these functions are performed in hardware or software depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. Professional and technical personnel can use different methods to implement the described functions for each specific application, but such implementation should not be considered beyond the scope of this application.

[0082] In the several embodiments provided in this application, it should be understood that the disclosed devices and methods can be implemented in other ways. For example, the device embodiments described above are merely illustrative. For example, the division of the units described is merely a logical function division. In actual implementation, other division methods may be used, such as combining or integrating multiple units or components into another device, or ignoring or not performing some features.

[0083] In the description provided herein, a large number of specific details are described. However, it is understood that the embodiments of the present application can be practiced without these specific details. In some instances, well-known methods, structures, and techniques are not shown in detail so as not to obscure the understanding of this description.

[0084] Similarly, it should be understood that in order to streamline the present application and aid in understanding one or more of the various inventive aspects, in the description of the exemplary embodiments of the present application, the various features of the present application are sometimes grouped together into a single embodiment, figure, or description thereof. However, this approach of the present application should not be interpreted as reflecting the intention that the application claimed for protection requires more features than those explicitly recited in each claim. More precisely, as reflected in the corresponding claims, the inventive point is that the corresponding technical problem can be solved with fewer features than all the features of a single disclosed embodiment. Therefore, the claims following the detailed description are hereby expressly incorporated into the detailed description, with each claim itself serving as a separate embodiment of the present application.

[0085] It will be understood by those skilled in the art that, except where mutually exclusive, all features disclosed in this specification (including the accompanying claims, abstract, and drawings) and all processes or units of any method or apparatus disclosed herein may be combined in any combination. Unless expressly stated otherwise, each feature disclosed in this specification (including the accompanying claims, abstract, and drawings) may be replaced by an alternative feature providing the same, equivalent, or similar purpose.

[0086] Furthermore, those skilled in the art will appreciate that although some embodiments described herein include certain features included in other embodiments but not other features, combinations of features from different embodiments are intended to be within the scope of this application and to form different embodiments. For example, in the claims, any of the claimed embodiments may be used in any combination.

[0087] The various component embodiments of the present application can be implemented in hardware, or in a software module running on one or more processors, or in a combination thereof. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that a microprocessor or digital signal processor (DSP) can be used in practice to implement some or all of the functions of some modules according to the embodiments of the present application. The application can also be implemented as a part or all of a device program (e.g., a computer program and a computer program product) for performing the method described herein. Such a program implementing the present application can be stored on a computer-readable medium, or can have the form of one or more signals. Such a signal can be downloaded from an Internet website, or provided on a carrier signal, or provided in any other form.

[0088] It should be noted that the above embodiments illustrate rather than limit the present application, and that those skilled in the art may devise alternative embodiments without departing from the scope of the appended claims. In the claims, any reference symbols placed between brackets should not be construed as limiting the claims. The present application may be implemented by means of hardware comprising several different elements and by means of a suitably programmed computer. In a unit claim enumerating several means, several of these means may be embodied by the same item of hardware. The use of the words first, second, and third, etc. does not indicate any order. These words may be interpreted as names.

[0089] The above description is merely a specific embodiment or illustration of a specific embodiment of the present application, and the scope of protection of the present application is not limited thereto. Any changes or substitutions that can be easily conceived by a person skilled in the art within the technical scope disclosed in the present application should be included in the scope of protection of the present application. The scope of protection of the present application should be based on the scope of protection of the claims.

Claims

1. A medical device comprising a plug-in EIT, characterized in that: The medical equipment includes: A medical device body, the medical device body comprising a main controller and a plug-in unit, the plug-in unit being configured to provide a first communication interface, the plug-in unit having a space for accommodating an insertable device or being an open slot; The EIT module has a second communication interface and a sensor interface. The second communication interface is located on the EIT module and is used to connect to the first communication interface. The sensor interface is used to connect to the EIT sensor to collect EIT signals through the EIT sensor. The EIT module is configured to be placed in the plug-in unit so that the EIT module is relatively fixed to the medical device body.

2. The medical device according to claim 1, wherein The EIT module includes an EIT data acquisition unit and an EIT data processing unit, the sensor interface is provided in the EIT data acquisition unit, the second communication interface is provided in the EIT data processing unit, and the EIT data acquisition unit and the EIT data processing unit are located in the EIT module; The EIT data processing unit establishes a communication connection with the EIT data acquisition unit to obtain the EIT signal collected by the EIT data acquisition unit, and performs data processing on the EIT signal to obtain processed data.

3. The medical device according to claim 1, wherein The medical device further includes a first controller; The EIT module includes an EIT data acquisition unit, the second communication interface and the sensor interface are provided in the EIT data acquisition unit, and the EIT data acquisition unit is located in the EIT module; The EIT module is used to send the EIT signal to the first controller through the first communication interface and the second communication interface, and the first controller is used to process the EIT signal to obtain processed data.

4. The medical device according to claim 1, wherein The EIT module includes an EIT data acquisition / processing unit, the second communication interface and the sensor interface are provided in the EIT data acquisition / processing unit, and the EIT data acquisition / processing unit is located in the EIT module; The EIT module is further configured to perform data processing on the EIT signal collected by the EIT sensor to obtain processed data.

5. The medical device according to claim 1, wherein The EIT module includes an EIT data acquisition unit, the second communication interface and the sensor interface are provided in the EIT data acquisition unit, and the EIT data acquisition unit is located in the EIT module; The EIT module is used to send the EIT signal to the main controller through the first communication interface and the second communication interface, and the main controller is used to process the EIT signal to obtain processed data.

6. The medical device according to claim 1, wherein The plug-in unit has a first fixing structure, and the EIT module has a second fixing structure. The first fixing structure and the second fixing structure cooperate with each other to relatively fix the EIT module and the plug-in unit.

7. The medical device according to claim 6, characterized in that The first fixing structure includes a limiting structure provided in the plug-in unit, and the second fixing structure includes a supporting structure provided on the EIT module. The supporting structure abuts against the limiting structure to relatively fix the EIT module and the plug-in unit.

8. The medical device according to claim 1, wherein After the EIT module is placed in the plug-in unit, the remaining space of the plug-in unit can accommodate at least one plug-in device.

9. The medical device according to claim 1, wherein The EIT module further includes a shortcut key for triggering the medical device or the EIT module to perform a preset operation.

10. The medical device according to claim 9, characterized in that The preset operation includes displaying a preset interface or calibrating the EIT module.

11. The medical device according to claim 1, wherein The first communication interface and the second communication interface use a contact communication method.

12. The medical device according to any one of claims 2 to 5, characterized in that: The processed data is integrated with data of the medical device and displayed on a display of the medical device.

13. The medical device according to claim 3, characterized in that The plug-in unit includes at least one slot, each of which can be connected to the first controller. The first controller identifies the EIT module by identifying the identifier of the device plugged into the slot and establishes a communication connection with the EIT module.

14. The medical device according to claim 2, 4 or 5, characterized in that The plug-in unit includes at least one slot, each of which can be connected to the main controller. The main controller identifies the EIT module by identifying the identifier of the device plugged into the slot and establishes a communication connection with the EIT module.

15. The medical device according to claim 12, characterized in that The processed data is fused and analyzed with the data of the medical device to obtain a fusion analysis result.

16. The medical device according to claim 1, wherein The EIT module is provided with a battery inside; or, The plug-in unit has a first power interface, the EIT module has a second power interface, the second power interface is used to connect to the first power interface, and the EIT module is powered by the plug-in unit of the medical device.

17. The medical device according to claim 1, wherein The medical equipment includes a ventilator, anesthesia machine or a monitor.

18. A ventilation medical device integrated with EIT, characterized in that: The ventilation medical device comprises a main control module, a mechanical ventilation module and an EIT module, wherein the EIT module is integrated into the ventilation medical device, wherein: The mechanical ventilation module is used to provide mechanical ventilation for the patient and collect monitoring data during the mechanical ventilation process; The EIT module is at least used to collect the EIT signal of the patient, and the main control module is communicatively connected to the mechanical ventilation module, and the EIT module is communicatively connected to at least one of the mechanical ventilation module and the main control module.

19. The ventilation medical device according to claim 18, characterized in that The EIT module includes an EIT data acquisition unit and an EIT data processing unit. The EIT data acquisition unit is used to acquire EIT signals, and the EIT data processing unit is used to process the EIT signals to obtain processed data. The EIT data acquisition unit and the EIT data processing unit are located in the EIT module.

20. The ventilation medical device according to claim 18, characterized in that The ventilation medical device further includes a first controller; The EIT module includes an EIT data acquisition unit, and the EIT data acquisition unit is located in the EIT module; The EIT module is used to send the EIT signal to a first controller, and the first controller is used to process the EIT signal to obtain processed data.

21. The ventilation medical device according to claim 18, characterized in that The EIT module includes an EIT data acquisition / processing unit, which is used to acquire the EIT signal and perform data processing on the EIT signal to obtain processed data. The EIT data acquisition / processing unit is located in the EIT module.

22. The ventilation medical device according to claim 18, characterized in that The EIT module includes an EIT data acquisition unit, and the EIT data acquisition unit is located in the EIT module; The EIT module is further configured to send the collected EIT signal to the main control module, and the main control module is further configured to process the EIT signal to obtain processed data.

23. The ventilation medical device according to claim 20, characterized in that The first controller is embedded and integrated inside the ventilation medical device body.

24. The ventilation medical device according to claim 18, characterized in that The EIT module is embedded and integrated in the ventilation medical device, or the EIT module is integrated in the ventilation medical device in the form of a plug-in.

25. The ventilation medical device according to claim 24, characterized in that If the EIT module is integrated into the ventilation medical device in the form of a plug-in, the EIT module is powered by a plug-in unit of the ventilation medical device, or a battery is provided inside the EIT module.

26. The ventilation medical device according to claim 23, characterized in that The processed data is integrated with the monitoring data of the mechanical ventilation module and displayed on the display of the ventilation medical device.

27. The ventilation medical device according to claim 24, characterized in that If the EIT module is integrated into the ventilation medical device in the form of a plug-in, the EIT module is communicatively connected to at least one of the mechanical ventilation module or the main control module, and the communication connection is a contact connection.

28. The ventilation medical device according to claim 26, characterized in that The processed data is fused and analyzed with the data from the mechanical ventilation module to obtain a fusion analysis result.

29. The ventilation medical device according to claim 18, characterized in that The ventilation medical equipment includes a ventilator or an anesthesia machine.

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