Heartbeat Synchronization Trigger Signal Generation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional R-wave triggers are sensitive to noise, lack consistency in timing, and are not specific to normal heartbeats, requiring sophisticated algorithms that consume significant computer resources and result in delays of over 200 milliseconds for classification.
Innovation Solution
A processor-based system that generates a trigger signal synchronized to a heartbeat by analyzing ECG data in real-time, distinguishing between normal and abnormal heartbeats with minimal delay and low computational overhead, using threshold settings to minimize jitter and delay.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If sophisticated arrhythmia analysis algorithms are used to detect and classify heartbeats, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and loss of time increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts only the essential feature for triggering - the R-wave detection - while discarding complex arrhythmia analysis capabilities. This selective extraction achieves sufficient precision for medical device triggering without requiring sophisticated algorithms, thereby reducing device complexity and processing requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs simple, inexpensive threshold-based detection mechanisms rather than complex, resource-intensive algorithms. This approach uses basic processing capabilities to achieve the required functionality, avoiding the need for high-power computing resources and complex software systems.
2Measurement precision
If sophisticated arrhythmia analysis algorithms are used to detect and classify heartbeats, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of time increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts only the essential feature for triggering - the R-wave detection - while discarding complex arrhythmia analysis capabilities. This selective extraction achieves sufficient precision for medical device triggering without requiring sophisticated algorithms, thereby reducing device complexity and processing requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary R-wave detection and classification in real-time during the heartbeat cycle, rather than waiting for complex analysis to complete. This preliminary action ensures that triggering decisions are made quickly and accurately without the delays associated with comprehensive arrhythmia analysis.
3Ease of operation
If conventional R-wave triggers are used, then ease of operation is maintained, but reliability deteriorates due to noise sensitivity and lack of specificity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms that continuously monitor the ECG signal and adjust triggering based on real-time beat characteristics. This feedback approach maintains operational simplicity while significantly improving reliability by adapting to varying heart conditions and filtering out noise-induced false triggers.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent dynamically adjusts detection parameters such as threshold levels and timing windows based on the detected heartbeat characteristics. This parameter adaptation allows the simple trigger system to maintain high reliability across different physiological states without requiring complex algorithms, balancing ease of operation with trigger accuracy.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for producing a trigger signal, for use with a medical device, that is synchronized to a heartbeat in a subject of interest. The apparatus includes a sensor for obtaining ECG data from the subject of interest. The apparatus further includes a processor coupled to the sensor, with the processor configured to generate the trigger signal based on a real time analysis of the ECG data and to only synchronize and transmit the trigger signal to the medical device if a pre-selected characteristic of the heartbeat is identified. The apparatus further includes and a display device coupled to the processor and configured to display the ECG data and the trigger signal.