ECG Multiplexer Reference Switching to Reduce Channel Noise

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing ECG measurement systems face issues with switching noise when multiplexing multiple analog signals, which can distort bioelectric signal outputs.

Innovation Solution

Incorporating a double pole double throw (DPDT) switch in the multiplexer to connect and disconnect the ECG signals in a controlled manner, first to a reference signal and then to the incoming bioelectric signal, to minimize noise during switching events.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple analog ECG signals are multiplexed using a standard multiplexer, then the number of channels being monitored is increased, but switching noise is introduced into the signal output

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenumber of channelsVSAvoidswitching noise
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The DPDT switch performs a preliminary connection to the reference voltage before connecting to the ECG signal channel. This preliminary action allows the circuit to settle and eliminates switching noise by establishing a stable reference state before signal acquisition begins.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The reference voltage serves as an intermediary element between the multiplexer switching mechanism and the ECG signal. By connecting to the reference voltage first, the circuit creates a stable intermediate state that prevents direct coupling of switching transients to the signal path.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Object-generated harmful factors

If a DPDT switch is used to connect to reference signal first, then switching noise is reduced, but the complexity of the multiplexer increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveswitching noiseVSAvoidmultiplexer complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-generated harmful factorsVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The DPDT switch combines multiple functions into a single component: channel selection and reference voltage connection. This merging of functions reduces the overall system complexity compared to using separate switches for each function.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The DPDT switch performs multiple functions simultaneously - it acts as both a channel selector and a reference voltage connector. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for additional dedicated reference connection components, thereby reducing overall circuit complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentEP3607880B1Method for reducing switching noise in analog bioelectric signal processing
Publication Date: 2022.01.26 BIOSENSE WEBSTER (ISRAEL) LTD
  • EP3607880B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3607880B1 patent drawingFigure 2~3
  • EP3607880B1 patent drawingFigure 4

AI summary

Medical catheterization is carried out by receiving a plurality of analog bioelectric signals in respective channels and multiplexing the bioelectric signals in respective selection events. The selection events comprise making a first connection with a reference voltage, thereafter breaking the first connection and making a second connection with one of the bioelectric signals. The method is further carried out by outputting the multiplexed bioelectric signals to an analog-to-digital converter.