Optical Connector Port Detection for Automatic ECG Cable Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing patient monitoring devices struggle to automatically detect both smart and legacy ECG lead sets, leading to cumbersome user interactions and inefficiencies in workflow.
Innovation Solution
A connector detection system utilizing an optical sensor with a transmitter and receiver to determine the presence of a connector within a connector port, enabling automatic activation or deactivation of frontend circuitry based on the insertion or removal of cables.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If automatic detection of ECG lead sets is implemented, then workflow efficiency is improved and user input requirements are reduced, but device complexity increases due to the need for additional detection mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical detection methods with an optical sensing system. The optical sensor uses light transmission and reflection principles to automatically detect the presence and type of ECG lead sets, eliminating the need for manual user input while maintaining relatively simple device architecture through non-contact sensing
2Measurement precision
If optical sensors are added to detect connector insertion, then cable detection accuracy is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an optical intermediary system consisting of a light source and sensor that mediates between the connector insertion event and the detection mechanism. This optical intermediary enables precise detection of connector presence and cable type through light interaction without requiring direct electrical or mechanical contact, achieving high measurement precision with reasonable manufacturing complexity
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
The system allows for seamless detection and activation of appropriate frontend circuitry for both smart and legacy cables, enhancing workflow efficiency and reducing user input requirements.
Implementation Method 1
a transmitter configured to transmit a light beam across the interior volume
Implementation Method 2
a receiver configured to monitor for a reflected light beam corresponding to the transmitted light beam
Data Source
AI summary
A connector detection system includes a connector interface including a connector port having an interior volume configured receive a connector of a cable; and an optical sensor. The optical sensor includes a transmitter configured to transmit a light beam across the interior volume; a receiver configured to monitor for a reflected light beam corresponding to the transmitted light beam; and processing circuitry configured to determine whether the connector is inserted into the interior volume based on a monitoring for the reflected light beam.