Vital Sign Monitor Algorithm Testing via Segmented Test Module
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing decision-support algorithms in vital-sign monitors are proprietary and difficult to modify or test, relying on retrospective analysis, which limits user flexibility and innovation.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a storage module, communications module, analysis controller, and test module that receives and processes vital-sign data in real-time, allowing for the execution of decision-support algorithms in a ruggedized, compact unit, enabling real-time processing and modification of algorithms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If decision-support algorithms are incorporated into vital-sign monitors as proprietary systems, then the algorithms can be executed reliably, but they become difficult to modify or test by end-users
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates the algorithm execution environment from the proprietary vendor system by implementing a local test module that can run algorithms independently on copied data, allowing modification and testing without affecting the core vital-sign monitor system
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces an intermediary test module that acts as a bridge between the proprietary vital-sign monitor and the user's modification needs, allowing algorithms to be tested and refined locally before deployment without directly modifying the original system
2Measurement precision
If retrospective analysis of previously gathered data is used to test decision-support systems, then algorithm testing can be performed, but real-time processing capability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by copying data from the vital-sign monitor to local storage before analysis, enabling both retrospective testing accuracy and real-time processing by preparing the data environment in advance
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates copies of the vital-sign data and algorithm implementations for local testing, allowing retrospective analysis on copied data while maintaining the ability to process real-time data through the same algorithm framework
3Measurement precision
If workstations and servers are used for decision-support system testing, then comprehensive analysis can be performed, but portability and real-time field testing are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements a universal test module that can function both as a portable field device and as a comprehensive analysis system, performing the multi-function of providing retrospective testing accuracy while maintaining portability for field use
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from the traditional workstation/server dimension to a portable handheld dimension by implementing local processing capabilities that maintain comprehensive analysis functions in a mobile format
Data Source
AI summary
A system is disclosed having a storage, a communications module for interacting with a medical measurement device, an analysis controller, and a test module that allows for the testing and evaluating of decision-support algorithms. A method for testing decision-support algorithms is disclosed having the steps of receiving into storage of a ruggedized, compact computer at least one decision-support algorithm; detecting with a communications module the initiation of a vital-sign monitoring session; receiving and storing vital-sign information into storage by the communications module; pushing the stored vital-sign information by an analysis controller to a test module running the stored at least one decision-support algorithm; and providing at least one output from the decision-support algorithm to at least one of a database and a display.