A discrete simulation model reproducing electropotential changes within the heart and imitating the generation of the ECG signal has been developed using the SIMULA** language. Used for computational experiments, the current version is writ ten in FORTRAN IV because of lower memory demands and for installation on a desk-top computer. However, the FORTRAN version saves all important SIMULA methodology and enables different pathological situations of the cardiac conduction system to be modeled in a comparatively easy way. The present ver sion of the model is especially suited for projects studying car diac rhythm and its disorders. A large set of such experiments has been performed. This paper concisely describes the simulated system with special attention devoted to a description of the model principles and program results. Comparison is made be tween existing models of electrocardiogram generation, and some experimental results are shown. External validation of the model and advantages that have been obtained by transmitting the SIMULA model into FORTRAN are also discussed.
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