Lab 9 Bioinstrumentation
Lab 9 Bioinstrumentation
LAB # 09
OBJECT:
Follow instructions to design a virtual ECG processing unit in LABVIEW software.
THEORY:
An ECG processing unit, designed using LabVIEW software, is a sophisticated system that
ensures accurate acquisition, amplification, and processing of the electrocardiogram signals.
The unit begins with instrumentation amplifiers, which are crucial for amplifying the weak
electrical signals produced by the heart without introducing noise or distortion. The signals
are typically in the range of microvolts, so the instrumentation amplifier boosts them to a
level suitable for further processing. The notch filters are then employed to eliminate power
line interference, particularly from the 50/60 Hz frequency, which can obscure the ECG
signal. Additionally, high-pass filters are used to remove low-frequency noise such as
baseline wander caused by body movements or breathing, ensuring a cleaner signal for
analysis. After the initial filtering stages, post amplifiers further boost the signal before
passing it through a low-pass filter, which removes high-frequency noise (such as muscle
artifacts and electromagnetic interference) that can degrade the quality of the ECG waveform.
In real-life applications, ECG processing units are integral to the monitoring of heart health in
clinical settings, wearable health devices, and diagnostic tools. They enable healthcare
professionals to detect abnormalities in the heart’s electrical activity, such as arrhythmias or
ischemia, by providing a clear and accurate ECG waveform. Each component of the system
plays a critical role in ensuring that the ECG signal is as precise as possible: the
instrumentation amplifier ensures signal amplification without distortion, the filters (notch,
high-pass, and low-pass) clean the signal by removing unwanted noise, and the post
amplifiers ensure sufficient signal strength for final analysis. Together, these elements allow
for the reliable and accurate interpretation of the ECG, helping in early diagnosis and
continuous monitoring of heart conditions.
STEPS OF CONSTRUCTION:
1. Open NI LabVIEW and create a new project with a blank VI (Virtual Instrument).
2. If using real ECG data, connect the ECG acquisition hardware to your computer. For
simulation, use a signal generator block to create a synthetic ECG signal.
3. Place an instrumentation amplifier block from the Signal Processing or DAQmx
libraries. Set the gain to amplify the ECG signal appropriately.
4. Insert a notch filter from the Signal Processing palette and configure it for a 50 Hz or 60
Hz notch to remove power line interference.
5. Add a high-pass filter, setting the cutoff frequency to around 0.5 to 1 Hz to eliminate
baseline drift or low-frequency noise.
6. Place a post amplifier to further boost the signal and ensure it is strong enough for
analysis.
7. Insert a low-pass filter, setting the cutoff frequency around 40-150 Hz to remove high-
frequency noise like muscle artifacts.
8. Connect the output of each stage to the next and use a waveform chart or graph to
display the ECG signal after each filter.
2022F-BBM-014
9. Optionally, implement peak detection and RR interval measurement blocks for heart rate
or arrhythmia analysis.
10. Test the system with both simulated and real ECG data, adjusting filter parameters for
optimal performance.
11. Save the VI file and document the setup, including filter settings and gain values for
reference.
BLOCK DIAGRAM:
RESULTS / OUTPUT:
CONCLUSION:
In conclusion, the ECG processing unit designed in LabVIEW effectively amplifies and
filters ECG signals to provide accurate and clean waveforms. By using instrumentation
amplifiers, notch filters, high-pass filters, post amplifiers, and low-pass filters, the system
removes noise and interference, ensuring high-quality signal processing.