ECG Interval Reading With Independently Movable Grid Alignment

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing electrocardiogram (ECG) reading systems face challenges in accurately aligning waveforms with grids for measuring critical intervals, particularly when the intended interval is not aligned with the grid, making it difficult for cardiologists to calculate intervals without additional tools.

Innovation Solution

A system and method that allows independent movement of the ECG signal or grid relative to each other in response to user input, enabling precise alignment of the ECG signal with grid squares for accurate interval measurement.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If the ECG signal and grid are fixed relative to each other, then the display is simple and stable, but the ECG signal cannot be precisely aligned with grid squares for accurate interval measurement

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinterval measurement accuracyVSAvoidalignment mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by making the ECG signal and grid independently movable relative to each other. The signal can be dragged along the grid using user input (mouse, touch, or trackball), allowing dynamic alignment of the signal with grid squares. This dynamic adjustment capability enables precise interval measurement while maintaining a relatively simple overall system structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Measurement precision

If additional alignment tools are provided, then alignment precision is improved, but the device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvealignment precisionVSAvoidoperation simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements self-service by allowing the ECG signal itself to be the alignment tool. The signal can be directly manipulated and aligned with the grid through user input without requiring separate alignment markers, calipers, or auxiliary tools. This self-aligned approach simplifies operation while maintaining high precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Adaptability or versatility

If the ECG signal is moved independently of the grid, then alignment flexibility is improved, but the stability of the display deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvealignment flexibilityVSAvoiddisplay stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies segmentation by separating the ECG signal display from the grid background into independently controllable elements. The signal and grid are rendered as separate graphical layers that can be manipulated independently. This segmentation enables flexible alignment while maintaining display stability through controlled, incremental movements rather than abrupt repositioning.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS20250302362A1System and method for easy reading of intervals of electrocardiogram signals
Publication Date: 2025.10.02 GE PRECISION HEALTHCARE LLC
  • US20250302362A1 patent drawing
  • US20250302362A1 patent drawing
  • US20250302362A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A method includes receiving an electrocardiogram signal obtained of a subject. The method also includes displaying the electrocardiogram signal over a grid on a display. The grid includes both vertical lines and horizontal lines that define a first of plurality of squares and a second plurality of smaller squares within each square of the first plurality of squares. Both the first plurality of squares and the second plurality of smaller squares represent an interval of time in a horizontal direction. Both the first plurality of squares and the second plurality of squares represent a voltage or electrical potential level in a vertical direction. The method further includes independently moving either the electrocardiogram signal relative to the grid or the grid relative to the electrocardiogram signal to align the electrocardiogram signal with an outer edge of a respective square of the first plurality of squares in response to a user input.