Meeting ECG measurement and patient protection requirements in limited space

The system collects a large amount of ECG signals through three electrode patches: one on the chest and two on the back. Distributing the electrodes across multiple patches accommodates differences in body size, while creating specific challenges for the Wilson’s Central Terminal (the electrical reference used for chest leads in a standard ECG) and the connection to the measurement electronics.

The central engineering challenge was inside the device itself. Sensitive ECG signals require a stable measurement reference, while the electronics must also handle power and transmit large volumes of measurement data over Ethernet. All electrical means of patient protection measures had to fit within the compact enclosure.

Defibrillation introduced additional design requirements. The defibrillator’s energy must reach the patient while the measurement electronics and connected computer remain protected.

Integrating measurement, power and data in the design

Zign developed the measurement electronics, power supply, data communication and safety isolation as an integrated design. This allowed the team to address their interdependencies, from the influence of power circuitry on signal quality to the space required for electrical isolation.

Zign selected Power over Ethernet (PoE), allowing power and data to share a single cable. The additional safety isolation was integrated into the device, enabling it to operate from a standard PoE supply.

For both power and Ethernet, Zign implemented an isolation solution providing two means of patient protection: 2 MOPP. Integrating this protection alongside sensitive measurement electronics within the available space was a key part of the development.

Zign addressed the defibrillation requirements in the technical design, together with a procedure for removing sections of the patches at two locations. The defibrillation test performed was passed successfully.

A compact electronic foundation for cardiac mapping

Zign combined ECG measurement electronics, PoE power, Ethernet communication and patient protection within a compact enclosure. The required safety isolation for power and data is built into the device itself.

For EP Solutions, these electronics provide a building block for the continued development of its cardiac mapping system. The project demonstrates how Zign translates complex medical device requirements into an integrated electronic design, considering both measurement performance and the conditions in which the device will be used.