Technical Overview

How does the Diagnostic Pedal work?

The Diagnostic Pedal is an ergometer run by air pressure suitable for MRI. The purpose is to simulate a physical stress situation inside the MR bore. A typical stress test takes about 25 minutes:
  • Phase 1: 5 min resting measurement
  • Phase 2: 15 min dynamic load
  • Phase 3: 5 min recovery measurements
During a stress test, the patient has to work against the pedals predefined resistance at a given frequency. The pedal workload can be controlled and regulated automatically or manually during the examination.

Magnetic resonance suitability

The Diagnostic Pedal has been developed to examine a test subject or patient in a magnetic field during physical activity. The system is conditional with all magnetic field strengths. All of the components used contain only non-magnetic materials and have been tested for their magnetic resonance suitability. The high standard applied to materials, the production process and the technologies employed guarantee the proper functioning of the Diagnostic Pedals in an MRI scanner without any artefacts.

Mechanics
The resistance of the Diagnostic Pedals is adjusted by a pneumatic system. Special sensors on the pedal allow the force to be detected in a highly precise manner. The ergometer is controlled outside the shielded chamber using our Control Units and Software. All Ergospect pedals are equipped with automatic feedback control systems, which ensure that the pre-defined parameters are maintained throughout the entire measurement.

Design
The Diagnostic Pedals are compatible with MR scanner beds of all manufacturer and are easy to handle in clinical practice. The pedal platform allows the patient to be positioned comfortably and securely, irrespective of body height and weight, and guarantees optimal positioning and fixation of the coil. An anatomical shoulder and chest fixing system, similar to a backpack system, leg belts and slide-firm surfaces enable the secure fixation of the patient. The components used are long-lasting, easy to clean materials that comply with medical standards.

Modular interchangeability

The basic platform of the Diagnostic Pedal is suitable for different modules, which can be combined depending on the area of interest. The modules are mounted in the basic platform with an easy plug-in system. The following modules are available:
  • Cardio Step Module
  • Trispect Module
  • Tibiospect Module
  • Quadspect Module
  • Ischiospect Module
  • Glutspect Module
  • Orthospect Spine Module
  • Orthospect Neuro Module

Technical details

  • signal transduction without interfering with MRI measurements
  • automatic adjustment of the workload via an “automatic feedback control system”
  • control of all parameters with user-friendly control software
  • individual adjustment of the system in line with the patient’s physical capacity

Minimum Systems Requirements

The Ergospect Advanced and Pro Ergometers utilize software to control the workload and procedure protocols. A PC with a static IP address and following minimum specifications; minimum requirements for PC: 1.6 GHz CPU; 1GB RAM, 100MB free space on hard drive, 1 free USB port, Ethernet RJ45 port, Windows XP with SP2 or higher, .NET Framework 3.5 or higher:

The load regulation on all modules requires compressed air. This can be supplied using air bottles, an air compressor or a pre-installed air pressure supply. Minimum requirements for air pressure supply:

min. 4.5 bar (0.45 MPa / 65 PSI)
max. 10 bar (1 MPa / 145 PSI)
suction capacity of compressor: min. 70 l/min (2.5 SCFM)

The controller unit for analyzing sensor data and regulating load protocol is placed inside the MR control room requiring electrical power. Electrical power supply: 110 Volt to 240 Volt, 50 – 60 Hz, 1A max.

The Diagnostic Pedal Cardio utilizes vacuum for stable ergometer fixation. Other devices do not need vacuum. Vacuum supply: Absolute pressure 0…300 mbar (0.03MPa / 4.5 PSI)

Ambient conditions: 15°C…30°C (60°F…85°F) Recommended temperature 21°C (70°F), only to be used in air conditioned rooms.

An audio system for pedaling frequency instructions is recommended.

Maximum subject height and weight depending on MRI restrictions.

All systems are CE certified medical devices and comply with safety standards.