Electrode Status Determination via Shunt Resistor Current Profile
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for determining electrode status in differential voltage measuring systems, such as those used for bioelectric signal measurement, are inefficient in quickly and accurately identifying whether an electrode is connected or not, leading to potential errors in triggering imaging devices due to delayed signal quality analysis.
Innovation Solution
A method and facility that acquire a temporal profile of an electric current flowing through a shunt resistor in series with the electrode, allowing for rapid determination of electrode status by analyzing the profile to differentiate between connected and disconnected states.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If signal quality analysis is used to determine electrode status, then the method can work with existing ECG signals, but the determination takes several seconds instead of fewer than 100 milliseconds
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by continuously monitoring the impedance of the electrode-patient interface before actual ECG measurement begins. This continuous monitoring is performed in advance to detect electrode disconnection or poor contact, allowing the system to alert users or reject subsequent measurements before they are taken, thus preventing wasted measurements rather than detecting problems after they occur.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses impedance measurement as an intermediary parameter to indirectly assess electrode status. Instead of directly analyzing ECG signal quality to determine electrode connection, the system measures the electrical impedance between the electrode and patient, which serves as a mediator that provides rapid information about electrode contact quality without requiring actual ECG signal acquisition and analysis.
2Speed
If a return-path method with test current is used to determine electrode status, then rapid determination can be achieved, but at least one further electrode must be connected to the patient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by having the electrode itself provide the information needed for status determination. The electrode's impedance characteristics serve as the direct indicator of its connection status, eliminating the need for separate test currents or additional electrodes. The electrode essentially monitors its own connection quality through its electrical properties.
3Loss of time
If impedance measurement is used to determine electrode status, then rapid determination in fewer than 100 milliseconds is achieved, but the method requires additional measurement capability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing the impedance measurement capability to serve multiple functions: it determines electrode contact quality, monitors patient physiology changes, and provides baseline data for subsequent ECG analysis. This multi-functionality justifies the addition of impedance measurement capability, as it provides value beyond simple electrode status determination.
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 and accurate identification of electrode status, reducing errors and improving the reliability of bioelectric signal measurements, particularly in scenarios where quick determination is critical for imaging device control.
Implementation Method 1
acquire a temporal profile of an electric current flowing through a shunt resistor
Data Source
AI summary
A method is for determining electrode status information relating to an electrode in a differential voltage measuring system for measuring a bioelectric signal, the electrode status information indicating whether the electrode is connected or not connected. An embodiment of the method includes the acquisition of a temporal profile of an electric current flowing through a shunt resistor, wherein the shunt resistor is arranged in series with the electrode in an electric transmission path of the differential voltage measuring system, and the determination of the electrode status information on the basis of the temporal profile.