MR-Compatible ECG Cable Interfaces with Conductive Plastic
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional electrocardiogram (ECG) cables and electrodes are unsuitable for magnetic resonance (MR) environments due to magnetic attraction and RF heating risks, and their connections suffer from complexity, dirt traps, and reliability issues.
Innovation Solution
The design of electrocardiogram cables and electrodes with conductive plastic materials and simplified interfaces that detachably connect in one direction, shifting complexity to disposable electrodes to enhance cleanability and reliability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional metal contact connections are used in ECG cables, then reliable electrical connection is achieved, but magnetic attraction and RF heating effects occur in MR environments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material parameter from conventional metal contacts to conductive plastic materials (carbon-filled polymers) that are MR-safe. This material substitution eliminates magnetic attraction and RF heating effects while maintaining electrical conductivity through the conductive properties of the carbon-filled polymer composite.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite materials - specifically carbon-filled polymers and conductive plastics - that combine the insulating properties of polymers with the conductive properties of carbon particles. This composite approach provides both MR safety and adequate electrical conductivity for ECG signal transmission.
2Reliability
If complex fastening mechanisms with multiple moving parts are used, then secure connection is achieved, but cleaning difficulty and dirt trap formation increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the connection system into two distinct parts: a disposable electrode with the complex fastening mechanism and a reusable cable with a simple interface. This segmentation allows the complex, hard-to-clean components to be discarded after single use, while the reusable cable maintains simple geometry for easy cleaning and disinfection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a disposable electrode design where the electrode with the complex fastening mechanism is intended for single use only. After use, the entire electrode is discarded rather than cleaned, eliminating cleaning difficulties. The reusable cable is simple in design to facilitate repeated cleaning and disinfection.
3Adaptability or versatility
If snap mechanisms requiring pressing open are used, then connection versatility is achieved, but wear and reliability issues increase over time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the traditional snap mechanism design by making the electrode (disposable component) contain the complex fastening mechanism rather than the cable (reusable component). This inversion ensures that the mechanism subject to wear is replaced with each new electrode, while the cable retains a simple, durable interface that undergoes minimal mechanical stress.
Data Source
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AI summary
An electrocardiogram cable includes an electrocardiogram cable body and an electrocardiogram cable interface configured to detachably fit into an electrocardiogram electrode interface from one direction. An electrocardiogram electrode includes an electrocardiogram electrode main body and an electrocardiogram electrode interface configured to detachably accept an electrocardiogram cable interface from one direction. The electrocardiogram cable and the electrocardiogram electrode are configured for use in magnetic resonance imaging.