Wearable Defibrillator Multivector Shock Waveform
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional defibrillators face challenges in efficiently delivering electrical current to the heart due to impedance issues, requiring high energy levels and complicating the application of multivector shocks, which are difficult to implement in emergency situations.
Innovation Solution
A wearable defibrillator design with multiple electrodes configured to establish multiple electrical paths across the thoracic cavity, using a multivector shock protocol that reduces energy requirements by delivering current through different combinations of electrodes, thereby minimizing the need for large pads and simplifying electrode placement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Weight of moving object
If a standard single-vector shock is delivered using conventional defibrillator design, then the device can achieve reliable defibrillation, but the device size and weight become large and the energy consumption is high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the single defibrillation shock into multiple sequential vectors (at least two different current paths). Instead of delivering one high-energy single-vector shock, the system segments the therapy into multiple lower-energy vectors that are delivered sequentially through different electrode combinations, reducing the energy required per vector while maintaining overall defibrillation efficacy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic switching between multiple electrode configurations during the defibrillation process. The system dynamically changes the current path by switching between different electrode pairs (e.g., anterior-posterior, lateral-lateral, anterior-lateral vectors) to create a multivector shock sequence, allowing the device to adapt the current flow pattern rather than using a static single path.
2Use of energy by moving object
If multiple electrodes are used to deliver multivector shocks, then energy efficiency improves, but the complexity of electrode application increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the existing four electrodes (two on the front, two on the back) multi-functional by using them in at least two different configurations to create multiple current paths. The same physical electrodes serve multiple purposes: they can form anterior-posterior vectors, lateral-lateral vectors, and anterior-lateral vectors, eliminating the need for additional specialized electrodes while maintaining multivector capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables the defibrillator to automatically determine and switch between different vector configurations based on the therapy being delivered. The device self-manages the complexity of multivector delivery by automatically selecting appropriate electrode pairs for each vector in the shock sequence, reducing the operational burden on the user who simply needs to apply the standard four electrodes.
3Use of energy by moving object
If a multivector shock protocol is implemented, then the energy required for defibrillation is reduced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the control of multiple electrode pairs and the sequencing of multiple vectors into a single integrated defibrillator system. Rather than requiring separate devices or complex external wiring for each vector, the invention combines all multivector control functions within the existing defibrillator, using a single capacitor to charge and discharge through different electrode configurations in a predetermined sequence.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the electrical parameters of the defibrillation shock by varying the current path (vector) between deliveries. The system modifies the shock waveform parameters by switching between different electrode pairs, creating at least two distinct current paths through the thorax, thereby delivering a multivector shock protocol that reduces energy requirements while maintaining therapeutic effect.
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 the construction of a smaller and lighter defibrillator that achieves the same shock success rate as a higher energy device, reducing the energy required for defibrillation by up to 40% and facilitating easier and faster application during emergencies.
Implementation Method 1
at least three electrodes configured to be attached to the thorax of a patient to establish at least two electrical paths across the thoracic cavity and through the heart of the patient
Data Source
AI summary
A transthoracic defibrillator for external defibrillation comprises at least three electrodes configured to be attached to the thorax of a patient to establish at least two electrical paths across the thoracic cavity and through the heart of the patient. In addition, a defibrillator circuit contained in a defibrillator housing has the capability to deliver a different defibrillation waveform across each of the at least two electrical paths.