Touchpad ECG Sensing Module for Continuous Cardiac Monitoring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional ECG measurement devices, both professional and portable, are limited in accessibility and precision for home use, with portable devices having poorer precision due to fewer electrodes and requiring specialized operation, while there is a need for continuous health monitoring in daily activities like using a computer.
Innovation Solution
An ECG signal sensing module integrated into a computer touchpad, featuring sensing electrodes and a processor that measure and process touch and press signals to generate ECG signals, which can be transmitted to a computer for analysis, allowing for non-invasive cardiac health monitoring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a professional ECG machine with multiple electrodes is used, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the ECG sensing function with the existing touchpad button structure of a computer. The sensing electrode is integrated into the touchpad button, merging two separate functions (input device and medical sensing device) into one unified system. This eliminates the need for separate professional ECG equipment while maintaining measurement capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The touchpad button is designed to serve multiple functions: it acts as both a computer input device and an ECG sensing electrode. By making the button multi-functional, the patent eliminates the need for dedicated medical equipment in everyday settings, allowing continuous health monitoring during normal computer use.
2Ease of operation
If a portable ECG machine with fewer electrodes is used, then ease of operation is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the ECG sensing functionality with the existing computer touchpad, creating a unified device that maintains the simplicity and portability of a standard computer while incorporating professional-grade sensing capabilities through the integrated electrode.
3Measurement precision
If specialized ECG equipment is used, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to requiring trained personnel
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables users to perform their own ECG monitoring by simply using their computer's existing touchpad. The automated signal processing and analysis features allow non-specialized personnel to obtain professional-grade ECG readings without requiring medical training or intervention.
4Productivity
If continuous health monitoring is implemented, then productivity of health management is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The touchpad button serves dual purposes as both a computer input device and a continuous health monitoring sensor. This multi-functionality enables ongoing ECG monitoring during normal computer usage without requiring separate dedicated monitoring equipment, thereby improving health management productivity while minimizing additional system 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
Enables precise and convenient ECG signal monitoring through a standard computer interface, providing continuous health feedback, including heart rate, blood pressure, mood, and stress analysis, without the need for specialized equipment or trained personnel.
Implementation Method 1
at least one sensing electrode, mounted on the touchpad button and moving in unison with the touchpad button, for measuring the voltage on the portion of a user touching the touchpad button
Data Source
AI summary
An electrocardiogram (ECG) signal sensing module is provide. The ECG signal sensing module includes at least one touchpad button, for producing a press signal when being pressed; at least one sensing electrode, mounted on the at least one touchpad button and moving in unison with the at least one touchpad button, for measuring the voltage on the portion thereof touched by a user; an electrocardiogram signal processor, coupled to the at least one sensing electrode, for processing the voltage on the at least one sensing electrode and producing an ECG signal; and a transmission interface, coupled to the at least one touchpad button and the electrocardiogram signal processor, for outputting the press signal and the ECG signal to a computer.