Asymmetric Flat ECG Lead Cable Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional electrocardiograph (ECG) systems face issues with lead cables becoming twisted or knotted due to their length and number, restricting sensor movement and hindering effective data recording.
Innovation Solution
A lead cable design featuring a sensor terminal, an intermediate segment with a non-conductive enclosure having parallel linear surfaces, and a combiner terminal segment to reduce tangling, with the intermediate segment configured to carry electrical signals from the sensor terminal to the opposing sensor terminal within a shielded and dielectric-enclosed structure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional cylindrical lead cables are used to connect sensors to the ECG system, then electrical signal transmission is achieved, but the cables become twisted or knotted due to their length and number, restricting sensor movement
Solution Approach 1:
The lead cable is designed with an asymmetric flat profile instead of a conventional cylindrical symmetric shape. The non-conductive enclosure has a first dimension (width) that is greater than a second dimension (thickness), creating an asymmetric cross-section that prevents the cable from rotating freely and becoming knotted, while still allowing necessary sensor movement
2Productivity
If multiple lead cables are used to connect the sensor array to the ECG system, then comprehensive cardiac data recording is enabled, but the cables twist and knot with each other, hindering effective data recording
Solution Approach 1:
The asymmetric flat profile of multiple lead cables allows them to be laid out in a more organized manner, reducing random twisting and knotting that occurs with cylindrical cables. This maintains signal integrity by preventing mechanical interference while enabling comprehensive cardiac data recording through proper cable arrangement
3Adaptability or versatility
If long lead cables are used to connect sensors placed at predetermined positions on the patient's body to the ECG system, then complete cardiac monitoring is achieved, but the cables become tangled and restrict movement
Solution Approach 1:
The flat asymmetric profile provides a stable orientation that prevents excessive twisting while maintaining the length needed for sensor placement flexibility. The cable can extend to reach predetermined positions on the patient's body without becoming tangled, balancing adaptability with mobility
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The design minimizes tangling of lead cables, enhancing the mobility and reliability of ECG systems by maintaining signal integrity and reducing mechanical interference, thereby improving cardiac activity data recording.
Implementation Method 1
The intermediate segment is enclosed by a non-conductive enclosure
Implementation Method 2
The sensor conductor is enclosed by a dielectric
Data Source
AI summary
An electrocardiogram system is provided. The system includes an array of sensors configured to generate electrical signals relating to cardiac activity. The system further includes a plurality of lead cables. Each lead cable includes a sensor terminal, an opposing sensor terminal, and an intermediate segment. The intermediate segment is interposed between the sensor terminal and the opposing sensor terminal. The array of sensors are electrically coupled to the sensor terminals. The intermediate segment is configured to carry the electrical signals from the sensor terminal to the opposing sensor terminal. The intermediate segment is enclosed by a non-conductive enclosure. The non-conductive enclosure having opposing linear surfaces and opposing lateral surfaces extending from the opposing linear surfaces. The opposing linear surfaces are parallel with respect to each other.