Electrocardiograph linked to a PC with an end cost of between R$ 500 and R$ 1,000

• Grant number: 97/07516-8
• Support Opportunities: Research Grants - Innovative Research in Small Business - PIPE
• Start date: January 01, 1998
• End date: June 30, 1998
• Field of knowledge: Engineering - Biomedical Engineering - Medical Engineering
• Principal Investigator: Climério dos Santos Vieira
• Grantee: Climério dos Santos Vieira
• Company: Elemed Equipamentos Médico-Hospitalares Ltda. - ME

Abstract

It is intended to study the feasibility of building a low-cost electrocardiograph to operate coupled to a PC. The equipment will use the potential of a PC, with the expensive and bulky components of a common electrocardiograph (signal monitor and plotter output) being replaced by the PC’s screen and printer. Thus, the intention is to simplify as far as possible the electrocardiograph hardware, keeping its cost to a minimum. The PC will run on Windows, with a window for the operation. A version will also be produced to run under DOS. This electrocardiograph will work together with patient registration software, keeping the result of the examination in the PC itself, along with the patient’s record. The equipment will be made up of box with a liquid crystal or a LED display for monitoring its functioning, with the electrodes for connecting to the patient and a power cable with a 127/220 A/C plug and mobile-phone type battery, and another cable for connecting to the PC, which will control its operation. After the examination, the software will perform a statistical pre-diagnosis, comparing the results of the examination with data prerecorded in memory. It is also intended to use the equipment remotely, through the internet - patients, at home, will conduct their own examinations; the doctor will receive the report in his or her office, over the telephone line, and will then be able to offer guidance to the patient. In future versions, it is intended to include a wireless modem (pager type), to be used with a cardiac monitor in clinics and hospital ICUs. (AU)