ECG Patch Wire Interconnects Disposable Adhesive
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current ECG monitoring technologies are limited by their inability to provide long-term, continuous, and cost-effective recording of cardiac activity, especially in ambulatory settings, due to issues with electrode adhesion, discomfort, and high costs, which hinder the diagnosis of sporadic cardiac conditions.
Innovation Solution
A lightweight, extended wear electrocardiography patch with a flexible design and wire interconnects that includes a disposable electrode patch and a reusable monitor recorder, allowing for comfortable long-term monitoring with improved signal quality and reduced manufacturing complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of stationary object
If conventional ECG electrodes are used for extended wear, then monitoring duration can be extended, but electrode adhesion deteriorates due to moisture, dirt, and skin contaminants
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs disposable adhesive electrode patches that are intended for single-use over extended periods (e.g., 30 days). Rather than attempting to maintain adhesion indefinitely, the system allows the adhesive to naturally degrade over time. When adhesion fails, the entire patch is discarded and replaced with a fresh one, eliminating the need for complex adhesion maintenance mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The ECG monitoring system is divided into separate components: a disposable adhesive patch containing electrodes and a reusable monitor unit. This segmentation allows the adhesive patch to be optimized for extended wear without compromising the monitor's functionality. The patch can be independently replaced when adhesion fails, while the monitor continues to function.
2Measurement precision
If ECG electrodes are firmly fastened to maintain contact, then signal quality improves, but patient comfort deteriorates and skin irritation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes hydrocolloid adhesive, which changes its physical properties over time. Initially firm to ensure good electrode contact and signal quality, the adhesive gradually becomes softer and more compliant as it hydrates from skin moisture. This parameter change reduces skin irritation while maintaining adequate contact for acceptable signal quality throughout the wear period.
3Loss of information
If ECG monitoring systems are designed for long-term wear, then diagnostic capability improves, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates the ECG monitoring function into a simple disposable patch and a reusable monitor unit. The patch contains only the essential elements for signal acquisition (electrodes and minimal circuitry), while the complex processing, storage, and analysis functions are contained in the reusable monitor that can be used across multiple patients and monitoring periods.
Solution Approach 2:
By making the electrode patch disposable rather than designed for indefinite reuse, the patent eliminates the need for complex mechanisms to maintain adhesion, protect from moisture, or ensure long-term reliability. The simple patch can be manufactured at low cost and replaced periodically, while the expensive monitor unit is reused.
4Loss of information
If ECG electrodes are designed for extended wear, then monitoring effectiveness improves, but ease of manufacture deteriorates due to adhesion and flexibility requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The disposable nature of the patch allows manufacturers to use simple, cost-effective materials and construction methods. Rather than engineering complex adhesion systems or rigid structures, the patch can be manufactured as a simple flexible substrate with electrodes and adhesive, accepting that it will naturally degrade over time and be replaced.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a flexible adhesive patch that can conform to the contours of the patient's body. This flexibility is achieved through the use of thin, pliable materials that are easy to manufacture and apply, while still maintaining adequate contact for signal acquisition over extended periods.
Data Source
AI summary
An extended wear electrocardiography patch with wire interconnects is provided. The patch includes a flexible backing formed of an elongated strip of stretchable material with narrow longitudinal midsection evenly tapering inward from a distal end and a proximal end, the elongated strip adherable only at a contact surface defined on each of the ends; a pair of electrocardiographic electrodes interfaced to one or more of a set of electrode pads, each of the electrodes including an electrically conductive surface only exposed on the contact surface; a battery connected to one or more of the pads of the set via at least one flexile wire interconnect, the battery secured in place via a flexile wire; and the set of electrical contact pads included on the flexible backing and formed by a set of further flexile wires, the set configured to interface the electrodes and the battery with an electrocardiography monitor recorder.