EP Solutions’ cardiac mapping system helps physicians plan and optimise cardiac resynchronisation therapy (CRT) for patients with heart failure. By mapping the heart’s electrical activity, it supports a more personalised approach to treatment.

Zign developed the electronics and embedded software to combine sensitive ECG measurements, power and high-speed data communication within a compact enclosure, integrating patient protection into the design.

The system collects a large number 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 for the connections 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 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.

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.

Power over Ethernet, with isolation inside

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.

Two means of patient protection

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.

Defibrillation requirements tested

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.