Multipole ECG Electrode Assembly for Wavefront Direction and Speed Mapping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for mapping anatomical signals, such as electrocardiogram (ECG) signals, lack accuracy and sensitivity in determining the direction and propagation speed of wavefronts within the patient body, particularly in the heart, which is crucial for diagnosing and treating cardiac conditions like arrhythmia.
Innovation Solution
A medical probe with a distal-end assembly comprising multiple spines and electrodes arranged in non-uniform geometries, coupled to a flexible printed circuit board, senses electrical signals relative to a reference electrode, and a processor estimates the direction and propagation speed of ECG signals using vector calculations based on these signals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional electrode arrangements are used for ECG signal measurement, then the device structure is simple, but the accuracy and sensitivity in determining direction and propagation speed of wavefronts are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The electrode assembly is segmented into multiple electrodes (first, second, third, and fourth electrodes) arranged in a specific geometric configuration. Each electrode contributes to measuring different components of the electrical field, enabling accurate determination of wavefront direction and propagation speed through combined signal processing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from traditional single-plane electrode arrangements to a three-dimensional spatial configuration with electrodes positioned at different heights and orientations. This dimensional expansion allows comprehensive capture of electrical field vectors from multiple perspectives, improving measurement precision for direction and speed determination.
2Measurement precision
If uniform electrode geometry is used, then the manufacturing is easier, but the sensitivity for detecting directional information is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The electrode assembly employs asymmetric geometry where electrodes are positioned at different orientations and distances from the reference point. The first and second electrodes are arranged differently from the third and fourth electrodes, creating an asymmetric configuration that enhances directional sensitivity while maintaining manufacturability through standardized components.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the electrode assembly have specialized functions: some electrodes are optimized for detecting potential differences in specific directions, while others capture orthogonal components. This local optimization of electrode properties enhances overall directional detection sensitivity without requiring complete redesign of the entire assembly.
3Measurement precision
If minimal electrode configuration is used, then the device complexity is low, but the ability to determine both direction and propagation speed is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The electrode assembly is designed as a multi-functional unit where the same set of electrodes serves multiple purposes: determining wavefront direction, calculating propagation speed, and providing reference potentials. This universal functionality is achieved through a compact configuration that maximizes the information content from each electrode.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the functions of direction determination and speed measurement into a single integrated electrode assembly. By combining multiple electrodes with a common reference electrode and processing their signals together, the system achieves both measurement objectives without requiring separate independent systems.
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
Improves the accuracy and sensitivity of ECG mapping, enabling precise diagnosis and treatment of cardiac diseases by accurately determining the direction and speed of wavefronts in the heart.
Implementation Method 1
multiple electrodes, which are coupled to the arm, surround the reference electrode and are configured to sense electrical signals of body tissues that, when measured relatively to the reference electrode, are indicative of anatomical signals in the patient body
Data Source
AI summary
A medical probe includes an insertion tube for insertion into a patient body, at least an arm, which is attached to a distal end of the insertion tube, at least a reference electrode coupled to the arm, and multiple electrodes, which are coupled to the arm, surround the reference electrode and are configured to sense electrical signals of body tissues that, when measured relatively to the reference electrode, are indicative of anatomical signals in the patient body.