This book examines non-invasive, electrical-based methods for disease
diagnosis and assessment of heart function. In particular, a formalized
signal model is proposed since this offers several advantages over
methods that rely on measured data alone. By using a formalized
representation, the parameters of the signal model can be easily
manipulated and/or modified, thus providing mechanisms that allow
researchers to reproduce and control such signals. In addition, having
such a formalized signal model makes it possible to develop computer
tools that can be used for manipulating and understanding how signal
changes result from various heart conditions, as well as for generating
input signals for experimenting with and evaluating the performance of
e.g. signal extraction methods. The work focuses on bioelectrical
information, particularly electrical bio-impedance (EBI). Once the EBI
has been measured, the corresponding signals have to be modelled for
analysis. This requires a structured approach in order to move from real
measured data to the model of the corresponding signals. This book
proposes a generic framework for this procedure. It can be used as a
guide for modelling impedance cardiography (ICG) and impedance
respirography (IRG) signals, as well as for developing the corresponding
bio-impedance signal simulator (BISS).