Development of Prototype Multi-channel Digital EIT System with Radially Symmetric Architecture

We describe the development of a prototype multi-channel electrical impedance tomography (EIT) system. The EIT system can be equipped with either a single-ended current source or a balanced current source. Each current source can inject current between any chosen pair of electrodes. In order to reduce the data acquisition time, we implemented multiple digital voltmeters simultaneously acquiring and demodulating voltage signals. Each voltmeter measures a differential voltage between a fixed pair of adjacent electrodes. All voltmeters are configured in a radially symmetric architecture to optimize the routing of wires and minimize cross-talks. To maximize the signal-to-noise ratio, we implemented techniques such as digital waveform generation, Howland current pump circuit with a generalized impedance converter, digital phase-sensitive demodulation, tri-axial cables with both grounded and driven shields, and others. The performance of the EIT system was evaluated in terms of common-mode rejection ratio, signal-to-noise ratio, and reciprocity error. Future design of a more innovative EIT system including battery operation, miniaturization, and wireless techniques is suggested.