Elastic ECG Electrode Layout for Fast Accurate Placement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current ECG devices are bulky, time-consuming, and require specialized training for accurate electrode placement, often delaying critical medical decisions and compromising care, especially in emergency situations.
Innovation Solution
A stretchable, elastic ECG electrode device with integrated conducting circuits and screen-printed electrodes that can be applied by both laypersons and medical staff, conforming to anatomically correct positions for rapid and reliable ECG acquisition.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional ECG technology is used, then diagnostic quality can be maintained, but the system becomes bulky and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple electrodes, conducting circuits, and ECG acquisition components into a single integrated wearable device. The electrodes are merged with the fabric body to form a unified structure that can be applied directly to the patient's chest, eliminating the need for separate electrode placement and multiple cables.
Solution Approach 2:
The device serves multiple functions: it acts as both the ECG acquisition system and the electrode placement system. The fabric body provides structural support, electrical conduction, and patient contact all in one component, making the device universally applicable for diagnostic ECG acquisition without requiring additional specialized equipment.
2Ease of operation
If traditional ECG placement is used, then diagnostic accuracy can be maintained, but specialized training is required for electrode placement
Solution Approach 1:
The correct electrode positions are pre-marked on the fabric body before application. The conducting circuits are pre-configured in specific patterns that correspond to standard ECG lead placements, so that when the device is applied to the patient, the electrodes are automatically positioned correctly without requiring technical expertise.
Solution Approach 2:
The device uses visual markers and printed patterns on the fabric that replicate the anatomical reference points for correct electrode placement. These markings serve as templates that guide users (even non-medical users) to position the electrodes accurately according to standard ECG protocols.
3Adaptability or versatility
If traditional ECG technology is used, then comprehensive data can be obtained, but the system is not portable and cannot be used in confined areas
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the bulky cables and wire connections from the ECG system. Instead of using external wires to connect electrodes to the ECG machine, the conducting circuits are integrated directly into the fabric body, creating a wireless, cable-free system that is highly portable and adaptable to confined spaces.
4Loss of time
If traditional ECG acquisition is used, then diagnostic data can be obtained, but the process is delayed by multiple factors such as body sweat and transport limitations
Solution Approach 1:
The device uses a flexible fabric body that conforms to the patient's skin surface, creating intimate contact between the conducting circuits and the skin. This flexible film structure maintains stable electrical contact even when the patient moves, sweats, or is positioned in various orientations, eliminating delays caused by maintaining proper electrode contact.
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
Enables rapid, portable, and accurate ECG testing within and outside traditional healthcare settings, reducing placement errors and time to acquisition, and allowing for continuous monitoring during exercise.
Implementation Method 1
The body comprises an elastic material and integrated conducting circuits that transfer physiologic electrical signals
Data Source
AI summary
A diagnostic electrocardiogram (ECG) apparatus (20) is disclosed herein. The apparatus comprises a body and printed electrodes. The body (110) includes extension members (61-66), with each having an expansion section (61a) and at least one electrode section (61b). Each expansion section (61a) has at least one concertina member (75) and at least one connector member (76). The diagnostic ECG apparatus (20) conforms to American Heart Association guidelines on diagnostic resting ECGs.