Intrabody Electrode Testing Through Dual-Frequency Asymmetry Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bidirectional semiconductor devices in medical circuits, particularly those used in electrophysiological probes, may exhibit asymmetric properties, leading to the generation of dangerous direct current voltages when alternating current flows through them, necessitating a fast and effective method for detecting such asymmetry without interfering with electrophysiological signals.
Innovation Solution
A system and method using a signal generator to pass two different frequencies through the circuit, identifying derived frequencies that indicate asymmetry in bidirectional semiconductor devices, allowing for detection of flaws in electrodes submerged in electrolytic solutions, and disabling power sources if necessary.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If bidirectional semiconductor devices are used in medical circuits, then current control capability is improved, but asymmetric properties may generate dangerous DC voltages
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary testing of bidirectional semiconductor devices by applying dual-frequency AC signals before medical procedures. This preliminary action detects asymmetric properties that could generate dangerous DC voltages, allowing defective devices to be identified and replaced before patient contact, thus preventing harmful DC voltage generation while maintaining current control capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback by monitoring the output signals from bidirectional semiconductor devices during testing. When asymmetric properties are detected through frequency analysis of the output signals, the system provides feedback to identify and replace defective devices, ensuring safe operation while maintaining effective current control.
2Reliability
If traditional electrode testing methods are used, then connection integrity can be detected, but asymmetry in semiconductor devices cannot be identified
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes the testing parameters by applying dual-frequency AC signals instead of traditional single-frequency or DC tests. This parameter change enables the detection of asymmetric properties in bidirectional semiconductor devices through frequency analysis of the output signals, while still maintaining the ability to detect connection integrity issues.
Solution Approach 2:
The system adds a frequency dimension to the testing process by using dual-frequency AC signals. This dimensional change allows simultaneous detection of both connection integrity (traditional function) and semiconductor device asymmetry (new function), achieving comprehensive testing capability that traditional methods cannot provide.
3Measurement precision
If dual-frequency AC signals are applied for testing, then asymmetry detection is enabled, but interference with electrophysiological signals may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses periodic dual-frequency AC signals for testing, applying them in controlled intervals separate from electrophysiological signal acquisition. This periodic testing approach enables asymmetry detection while minimizing interference with ongoing electrophysiological monitoring, as the testing occurs in dedicated time windows rather than continuously.
Solution Approach 2:
The system extracts the asymmetry detection function as a separate testing process using dual-frequency AC signals, distinct from the main electrophysiological signal acquisition. By separating these functions temporally and functionally, the system achieves accurate asymmetry detection without compromising the integrity of electrophysiological signal data.
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 detection of asymmetry in bidirectional semiconductor devices and electrodes, ensuring safety by preventing dangerous DC voltage generation and maintaining electrophysiological signal integrity without additional hardware.
Implementation Method 1
a first bidirectional semiconductor device...modulating a first alternating current signal...a second bidirectional semiconductor device...modulating a second alternating current signal...a derived frequency, which derives from the frequencies of the generated signal
Data Source
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AI summary
A system includes a signal generator, configured to pass a generated signal, which has two different generated frequencies, through a circuit including an intrabody electrode. The system further includes a processor, configured to identify, while the generated signal is passed through the circuit, a derived frequency, which is derived from the generated frequencies, on the circuit, and to generate, in response to identifying the derived frequency, an output indicating a flaw in the electrode. Other embodiments are also described.