MAGNETICALLY CONNECTED ELECTRODE FOR MEASURING PHYSIOLOGICAL SIGNALS

摘要

The invention provides an electrode and associated electrode holder that are used for physiological measurements, e.g. measurements of signals that can be processed to generate ECG and TBI waveforms. The electrode and electrode holder connect to each other using a magnetic interface. In embodiments, for example, the magnetic interface includes oppositely polled magnets integrated in both the electrode and electrode holder. The magnets are typically rare earth magnets coated with a thin, electrically conductive metal film. This way, when the magnets come in contact with each other, the metal films touch to form both a mechanical and electrical connection. Thus the magnetic interface can replace conventional mechanisms used to connect rivet-based electrodes to leads, which are typically used to secure electrodes for physiological measurements.

主权项

1. A system for making a physiological measurement, comprising:
an electrode comprising at least one electrode region, with the electrode region comprising a metal film in electrical contact with a first magnet; and an electrode holder comprising at least one conductive region, with the conductive region comprising an electrical trace in electrical contact with a second magnet, with the first and second magnets orientated so that they mechanically connect when held proximal to each other so that the metal trace is electrically connected to the conductive region.