Visualization of the Multichannel Seismocardiogram

Abstract

The multichannel seismocardiography (mchSCG) project aims to develop the technology and knowledge-base to understand the distribution of vibration waves on the chest wall caused by cardio-mechanic events. This study focuses on the developing visualization methods for the vibration waves based on the multi-dimensional map obtained with the mchSCG equipment. We investigated four visualization methods. Vibration signals were collected in a four by four grid with 16 three-axis accelerometers placed on the chest of 11 healthy males. The visualization methods were investigated for their abilities to show temporal, spatial, and directional information. Of the four methods the SCG chart shows best temporal and small amplitude sensitivity information. Color plots provides an improved spatial overview. Tracking maps provide good directionality. The seismic mesh method is good at showing spatial and directionality information. Dependent on which signal aspects are of interest, the four visualization methods have their specific suited purposes. These visualization methods can assist further investigation of the vibration waves behavior and its relation to cardio-mechanic events.