Adhesive Electrode Patch for Continuous ECG Monitoring

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing ECG measurement systems face challenges in ensuring consistent and high-quality bioelectric signal capture due to electrode attachment and positioning issues, particularly during physical activity when cardiac problems may arise.

Innovation Solution

The use of an adhesive electrode patch with a longitudinal axis aligned with the patient's body, featuring spaced electrodes and a central region for improved signal measurement, which can be attached under the armpit or on the thoracic region, and connected to a portable monitor for continuous ECG data collection.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If multiple electrodes are attached to the patient's skin for ECG measurement, then the quality of ECG measurement is improved, but the complexity of electrode placement and positioning is increased

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveECG measurement qualityVSAvoidelectrode placement complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple electrodes are integrated into a single adhesive patch unit, combining several electrodes and their interconnections into one pre-assembled component that simplifies application while maintaining measurement quality

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

Electrodes are pre-positioned and pre-connected on the patch before application to the patient, eliminating the need for complex real-time positioning and wiring during the measurement process

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Measurement precision

If electrodes are positioned according to recommended guidelines, then acceptable ECG data is obtained, but the time required for proper electrode positioning is increased

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveECG data qualityVSAvoidelectrode positioning time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patch has electrodes pre-positioned in correct anatomical locations and pre-connected with conductive elements before application, so that proper positioning is achieved automatically when the patch is applied, eliminating time-consuming manual positioning

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patch is designed as a segmented structure with distinct electrode regions and conductive pathways that guide proper placement and ensure correct positioning without requiring manual adjustment

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Loss of information

If a 12-lead or 5-lead ECG is used for periodic monitoring, then comprehensive cardiac data is captured, but the device complexity and number of electrodes required is increased

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecardiac data comprehensivenessVSAvoidnumber of electrodes
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patch design allows the same electrode configuration to serve multiple lead functions, enabling comprehensive cardiac monitoring through a simplified electrode arrangement that can capture data from multiple perspectives

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

Solution Approach 2:

Multiple lead measurements are obtained through strategic electrode placement and signal processing that combines information from fewer physical electrodes, reducing the total number of electrodes needed while maintaining comprehensive cardiac assessment

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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 configuration enhances the quality and reliability of ECG measurements by ensuring better electrode placement and alignment, allowing for continuous monitoring during daily activities and improving the detection of cardiac health anomalies.

Implementation Method 1

The patch may include an adhesive layer on a surface covered by a protective strip

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAdhesion: Adhesive

Data Source

PatentUS10327657B2Electrode patch for health monitoring
Publication Date: 2019.06.25 INFOBIONIC INC
  • US10327657B2 patent drawing
  • US10327657B2 patent drawing
  • US10327657B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method of measuring bioelectric signals of a patient having an axis extending from the patient's head to the patient's feet includes attaching a patch to the patient's skin. The patch may include a first electrode and a second electrode spaced apart along a longitudinal axis of the patch. The patch may be attached such that the longitudinal axis of the patch is generally aligned with the axis of the patient. The method may also include attaching a third electrode to the patient's skin, and measuring bioelectric signals of the patient using the first electrode, the second electrode, and the third electrode.