Abstract:
The recent advancements in computing, signal
processing and communication technologies have immensely
improved public health care systems. As a result, new diagnostic
instruments with better precision and compatibility with
machines, gadgets and databases are developed. However, many
of these technical marvels are young and still at research level,
and are not very well known commercially. In the present study,
a cuff-less blood pressure (BP) measurement was done using
correlation study of pulse transient time and heart rate. Among
the various vital biomedical signals that can be collected noninvasively,
Electrocardiogram (ECG) and Photoplethysmograph
(PPG) were taken simultaneously to determine electrical signals
of the heart (ECG), the condition of the arteries (PPG) and
together can be related to the arterial pressure of the systemic
circulation (BP). This promises to give a composite overview of
the cardiovascular system non-invasively. The BP estimation was
done using non-linear 2nd order curve fitting regression model.
The final objective is to develop a portable, non-invasive,
biomedical signal acquisition system which not only can monitor,
store and communicate the above mentioned biomedical signals
but can also predict the BP by processing these signals. The
device will be used for continuous monitoring especially for
patients with cardiovascular complaints, and will be reduced to a
mobile attachment, that is easy to use and can be operated by a
paramedical staff (ASHA workers) with minimal training.
