Modeling Biomedical Signal Generating Processes and Systems

This chapter proposes mathematical models to represent the generation of biomedical signals and identifies the possible relationships between the mathematical models and the physiological and pathological processes and systems that generate the signals. It also explores the potential use of the model parameters in signal analysis, pattern recognition, and classification. The models provide a small number of parameters that characterize the signal and/or system of interest; the modeling approach is, therefore, useful in parametric analysis of signals and systems. As the number of parameters derived is usually much smaller than the number of signal samples, the modeling approach could also assist in data compression and compact representation of signals and related information. Pole-zero models could be used to view physiological systems as control systems. Pathological states may be derived or simulated by modifying the parameters of the related models. Models of signals and systems are also useful in the design and control of prostheses. A combination of mathematical modeling with electromechanical modeling can allow the inclusion of physical parameters, such as the diameter of a blood vessel, constriction due to plaque, stiffness due to stenosis, and friction coefficient.