Wireless ECG Electrodes for Patient Mobility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current patient monitoring systems, such as ECG monitors, are cumbersome and limit patient mobility due to the use of multiple electrodes and wires, which can disconnect, causing monitoring disruptions and posing challenges in caring for agitated patients and detecting falls, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic when healthcare demands surged and supply chains became unstable.
Innovation Solution
A wireless patient monitoring device with a processor, transceiver, and power supply, utilizing wireless electrodes with transmitters and adhesives for secure attachment, allowing for real-time ECG signal detection and transmission without physical leads, enabling patient mobility and comprehensive remote monitoring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple electrodes and leads are used for ECG monitoring, then monitoring accuracy is improved, but patient mobility is reduced and discomfort increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the monitoring function into separate wireless electrode units that can be independently attached to the patient's body. Each electrode unit contains its own transmitter and power supply, allowing them to function independently while collectively providing comprehensive ECG monitoring accuracy without requiring a centralized monitor unit.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical lead wire connection system with a wireless transmission system. The electrodes communicate ECG signals wirelessly to the monitoring device, eliminating the physical tethers that restricted patient movement and caused discomfort while maintaining monitoring accuracy.
2Reliability
If leads are used to connect electrodes to monitor, then monitoring reliability is improved, but device complexity increases and mobility is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the lead wires and physical connection components from the monitoring system. The wireless electrode units transmit signals through electromagnetic waves rather than physical connections, removing the complex wiring infrastructure while maintaining reliable monitoring through wireless communication protocols.
Solution Approach 2:
The wireless electrode units are designed as multi-functional components that integrate the electrode, transmitter, and power supply into a single self-contained unit. This universal design simplifies the overall system by eliminating the need for separate lead wire connections and multiple discrete components.
3Measurement precision
If leads are attached to patient skin, then ECG signal detection is improved, but patient comfort deteriorates and movement is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical lead wire system with wireless communication. The electrode units transmit ECG signals wirelessly to the monitoring device, eliminating the physical restraint and discomfort caused by leads while maintaining accurate skin contact for ECG signal detection through the adhesive electrode surfaces.
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate monitoring devices are used, then comprehensive monitoring capability is improved, but device complexity increases and portability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple monitoring functions into a single integrated system. The wireless electrode units can be attached to various body locations and transmit data to a central monitoring device that consolidates ECG, pulse oximetry, and other vital sign monitoring, replacing the need for multiple separate monitors while maintaining comprehensive monitoring capability.
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 solution enhances patient comfort and mobility by eliminating the need for physical leads, reducing disconnection issues, and enabling real-time monitoring across various healthcare settings, including remote locations, while improving the reliability and efficiency of patient care.
Implementation Method 1
an adhesive operably connected to the electrode
Implementation Method 2
a transmitter in electrical communication with the electrode
Data Source
AI summary
A medical monitoring device comprises a monitoring unit. The monitoring unit comprises a processor, a transceiver in data communication with the processor, and a power supply in electrical communication with the processor and the receiver. The monitoring device further comprises a plurality of wireless electrodes. Each of the wireless electrode comprises an electrode, a transmitter in electrical communication with the electrode, a power supply in electrical communication with the transmitter, and an adhesive operably connected to the electrode. A method of generating an electrocardiogram (ECG) comprises: detecting at least 10 ECG signals through a plurality of wireless electrodes; wirelessly transmitting each of the at least 10 ECG signals from the electrodes to a monitoring unit; and displaying each of the at least 10 wireless signals on a display in real time.