WSU researchers have developed an ultrasmall, low power technology to sense heart rate, pulse wave velocity (PWV), blood
oxygenation and blood pressure. The device uses a digital optical proximity sensor (OPS) which integrates LED light sources, detectors
and signal processors into a 4mm square and consumes <200 microwatts, which represents a 10X smaller size and >10X lower cost
than state of the art sensors.
This technology could lead to the development of the smallest and cheapest wireless heart rate sensor on the market. These improvements will lead to a 24 hour wearable heart rate sensor small enough to be worn unobtrusively on a finger, ear, etc. This technology could be integrated into home health care systems where information is transmitted wirelessly to the patients’ physician, hospital, other caregivers, and electronic medical records.
Recently, Dr. Basu has developed an Earlobe Mounted Sensor for Accurate, Continuous Measurement of Heart Rate Dynamics.
Stage of Development: Clinical Trial of prototypes
US Issued Patents: 10,219,709 & 11,330,993
Advantages:
This technology provides substantial improvements over existing photoplethymographic (PPG) sensors.
· 12X smaller size, enabling integration in small devices.
· 10X lower cost, making it affordable to wider audience.
· 10-50X lower power consumption, enabling long battery life
· “Plug and play” technology offers easy integration into electronic and wireless systems.
· Simple and ready for commercialization
To our knowledge, this is the smallest and lowest power heart rate sensor reported in the commercial or academic sector.