Cardiac Electrode Self-Test Jumper for Connection Integrity
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cardiac therapy electrode packages fail to effectively test the integrity of electrical connections between electrodes and cardiac resuscitation devices, particularly because prior methods cannot ensure that the connection is broken when the electrodes are removed from their packaging, leading to potential misuse and safety risks.
Innovation Solution
A self-test electrical connection using an electrically-conductive jumper element within the package, connected to the current-spreading layer of each electrode, which allows for testing without passing current through the gel layers and automatically breaks when the electrodes are removed from the substrate, ensuring the connection is intact before use and safe for therapy delivery.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If an additional electrical lead is connected within the package to enable testing, then the ability to test electrical connection integrity is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The additional electrical leads are nested within the existing electrode package structure, connecting to the current-spreading layer at the same location as the therapy leads. This allows testing functionality to be integrated into the existing package without adding external components, thus improving reliability while minimizing increased complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The additional electrical leads serve multiple functions: they enable electrical connection integrity testing while sharing the same physical pathway and connection points as the therapy leads. This multi-functionality approach allows one system to perform both therapy delivery and self-testing, improving reliability without proportionally increasing device complexity
2Reliability
If the shorting conductor is configured to be withdrawn when the package is opened, then the testing capability is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to potential incorrect opening
Solution Approach 1:
The shorting conductor is pre-configured to be withdrawn from the connector upon package opening. This preliminary arrangement ensures that if the package is opened correctly, the testing capability is automatically activated. However, this creates a risk if the package is opened incorrectly, as the shorting conductor may remain in place, potentially causing safety issues
3Measurement precision
If the testing connection passes current through the gel layers, then the comprehensive testing is improved, but the safety deteriorates due to potential incorrect package opening
Solution Approach 1:
The additional electrical leads are connected to the current-spreading layer at a specific location that allows testing without passing current through the gel layers. This localized connection approach enables electrical integrity testing of the cables and connectors while avoiding the safety risks associated with current passage through the gel, thus achieving measurement precision without compromising safety
4Productivity
If the electrodes are connected to the defibrillator ahead of time, then the productivity is improved, but the reliability deteriorates due to undetected connection failures
Solution Approach 1:
The electrode package performs self-testing of its electrical connections through the additional leads and shorting conductor mechanism. This self-service capability allows the electrodes to verify their own connection integrity before use, enabling early connection without compromising reliability, thus improving productivity while maintaining connection integrity
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
This solution allows for comprehensive testing of the electrical connection from the cardiac resuscitation device to the electrodes, reducing the risk of incorrect package opening and ensuring the electrodes are properly prepared for use, enhancing safety and reliability.
Implementation Method 1
an electrically-conductive jumper element located within the package, connected to the current-spreading layer of each electrode, and providing a self-test electrical connection between the first and second electrical leads
Data Source
AI summary
Testing integrity of electrical connections between cardiac resuscitation devices and electrodes connected thereto while the electrodes remain stored within a sealed package. Each electrode comprises a skin-contacting gel layer, a current-spreading layer, and an adhesive layer for adhering the electrode to the patient. An electrical lead for delivering a therapy pulse extends from the current-spreading layer of each electrode to the exterior of the package. A jumper element located within the package and connected to the current-spreading layer of each electrode provides a self-test electrical connection between the first and second electrical leads while the electrodes are adhered to a substrate within the package to permit testing the integrity of the electrical connection between the electrodes and cardiac resuscitation device prior to use of the electrodes. The jumper is configured so that the self-test electrical connection is broken when the user removes the electrodes from the substrate.