System and method for the contactless recording of vital parameters by creating a body model based on body subdivision along the radar field of view

Abstract

The invention provides a system for determining information about one or more vital parameters of a human. The system comprises a radar device (110) for emitting first radar waves and for detecting reflected radar waves that were brought about by reflection of the first radar waves from the human or from a body covering of the human. The system furthermore comprises an evaluation unit (120) for determining information about the one or more vital parameters of the human depending on the reflected radar waves. The radar device (110) is arranged, relative to a position of the human, to the side of the human in such a way that there is a virtual point in a foot of the human and that there is a virtual point in the radar device (110), such that the virtual point in the radar device (110) is closer to the virtual point in the foot of the human than to any virtual point in the navel of the human. Or, the radar device (110) is arranged, relative to the position of the human, to the side of the human in such a way that there is a virtual point in a head of the human and that there is a virtual point in the radar device (110), such that the virtual point in the radar device (110) is closer to the virtual point in the head of the human than to any virtual point in the navel of the human.

Description

[0001] System and method for contactless vital sign detection by creating a body model based on the body subdivision along the radar field of view

[0002] Description

[0003] The application relates to a contactless vital parameter recording and, in particular, to a system and a method for contactless vital parameter recording by creating a body model based on the body subdivision along a radar field of view

[0004] In particular, the present invention relates to the monitoring of vital parameters. Since people are unaware of their condition while asleep, monitoring vital parameters during sleep is often advantageous. For example, this applies to people with illnesses such as chronic respiratory disorders. In this case, the ideal situation would be to avoid disturbing the person while they sleep. However, vital parameter measuring devices are usually contact-based, meaning that such devices are usually attached to the sleeping person. This results in high installation and maintenance costs, along with reduced comfort for the patient. On the other hand, it is advantageous to be able to measure as many vital parameters as possible in a robust, valid, and contactless manner using a small number of measuring devices.

[0005] Contactless measuring devices based on a distance measurement between the person and the sensor can be used to measure breathing, heart rate, and movements of the body and limbs.

[0006] The person's movement leads to a characteristic change in distance that can be assigned to a vital parameter. For example, during breathing, the abdominal region will inflate and the abdominal surface will move closer to the measuring device. During exhalation, the abdomen returns to its initial position and the abdominal surface moves away from the measuring device. This should occur at a characteristic frequency for breathing (e.g., 10-24 respirations per minute). The same occurs simultaneously for various vital parameters across the entire body (heartbeat in the upper chest, kicking movement in the legs).

[0007] The simultaneous overlap of many vital parameters in the measurement data is problematic. Breathing, heartbeat, and limb movements often occur simultaneously, resulting in a complex signal that must then be broken down into individual vital parameters. When analyzing data from a contactless measuring device, it is not always clear which movements form the basis of this complex signal. This makes contactless vital parameter determination not trivial, and the use of contactless measuring devices is thus complicated.

[0008] For contactless determination of vital parameters using distance measurements, radar or ultrasound devices are currently used to transmit and receive the signal.

[0009] US 2022 / 0142478 A1 and WO 2021 / 086809 A1 show the use of radar to specifically distinguish only heartbeat and respiration.

[0010] Until now, the radar was generally mounted in front of or behind the upper body, meaning above or below the bed for a person in bed. Sometimes, radar positions are used exclusively in front of or behind the body. These positions result in either only a section of the body being observed or the entire body being at a similar distance from the measuring device. In these positions, heartbeat and respiration are most clearly detectable by the radar, as the body surface moves directly toward the radar during movement. However, they also overlap maximally here, as the breathing and heartbeat movements occur in the same direction.

[0011] The current standard solution for superposition is complex algorithms to separate the individual signals from each other.

[0012] However, due to the complexity of the evaluation, inconsistent values ​​in the vital parameters are not easy to understand. Furthermore, the complexity of the underlying problem also leads to dropouts where the vital parameters cannot be extracted from the signal. Furthermore, the database will always remain a superposition of various movements. As a result, the validity of the results can only be ensured at theoretical limits for, for example, maximum / minimum reasonable respiratory rate or heart rate. However, validation on the individual, for example, by assigning movements to body parts, is not possible.

[0013] It would be desirable to provide improved concepts for contactless vital parameter recording. A system according to claim 1, a method according to claim 21, and a computer program according to claim 32 are provided.

[0014] A system for determining information about one or more vital parameters of a human being according to one embodiment is provided. The system comprises a radar device for emitting first radar waves and for detecting reflected radar waves caused by reflection of the first radar waves from the human being or from a body covering of the human being. Furthermore, the system comprises an evaluation unit for determining information about the one or more vital parameters of the human being depending on the reflected radar waves. The radar device is arranged laterally to the human being relative to a position of the human being such that a virtual point exists in a foot of the human being and such that a virtual point exists in the radar device such that the virtual point in the radar device is closer to the virtual point in the human being's foot than to any virtual point in a navel of the human being.Or, the radar device is arranged relative to the position of the person laterally to the person such that a virtual point exists in a head of the person and that a virtual point exists in the radar device such that the virtual point in the radar device is closer to the virtual point in the head of the person than to any virtual point in the navel of the person.

[0015] According to one embodiment, the radar device may, for example, be arranged relative to the position of the person such that the radar device is positioned in front of the person instead of behind the person.

[0016] In one embodiment, the radar device may, for example, be arranged laterally to the human relative to the position of the human such that the radar device is arranged below the human's navel and below the human's foot, or such that the radar device is arranged above the human's navel and above the human's head.

[0017] According to one embodiment, the radar device can, for example, be designed to detect one or more detected radar signals depending on the reflected radar waves, wherein each detected radar signal of the one or more detected radar signals is assigned to exactly one distance step of two or more distance steps. In this case, for example, each of the two or more distance steps can be assigned to a body region of a plurality of body regions of the person, so that the detected radar signal of the one or more detected radar signals that is assigned to this distance step is assigned to the said body region. The evaluation unit can, for example, be designed to determine information about one of the one or more vital parameters depending on which detected radar signal of the one or more detected radar signals is assigned to which body region of the plurality of body regions.

[0018] In one embodiment, each of the two or more spacing steps may be assigned to a body region, e.g., a plurality of body regions of the human, such that a body of the human is completely divided into the plurality of body regions by the two or more spacing steps, such that the plurality of body regions together cover the body of the human.

[0019] According to one embodiment, for example, the one or more detected radar signals can be two or more detected radar signals. In this case, for example, the radar device can be designed to detect the two or more detected radar signals, wherein each detected radar signal of the two or more detected radar signals is assigned to exactly one distance step of the two or more distance steps. Each of the two or more distance steps can, for example, be assigned to a body region of the plurality of body regions of the person, so that the detected radar signal of the two or more detected radar signals that is assigned to this distance step is assigned to the said body region. The evaluation unit can, for example,be configured to determine information about said one of the one or more vital parameters depending on which detected radar signal of the two or more detected radar signals is assigned to which body region of the plurality of body regions.

[0020] In one embodiment, the evaluation unit can be designed, for example, to create a body model of the human depending on the two or more detected radar signals, which indicates which radar signal is assigned to which body region of the plurality of body regions of the human.

[0021] In one embodiment, for example, each of the two or more detected radar signals may be associated with exactly one body region of the two or more body regions to which no other of the two or more detected radar signals is associated.

[0022] According to one embodiment, the one or more vital parameters can be, for example, two or more vital parameters. The evaluation unit can be configured, for example, to determine information about the two or more vital parameters depending on which of the two or more detected radar signals is assigned to which body region of the plurality of body regions.

[0023] In one embodiment, the two or more detected radar signals can be, for example, three or more detected radar signals, wherein the two or more distance steps are three or more distance steps. The radar device can, for example, be designed to detect the three or more detected radar signals, wherein each detected radar signal of the three or more detected radar signals is assigned to exactly one distance step of the three or more distance steps. Each of the three or more distance steps can, for example, be assigned to a body region of the plurality of body regions of the human, so that the detected radar signal of the three or more detected radar signals that is assigned to this distance step is assigned to the said body region. The evaluation unit can, for example,be configured to determine information about said one of the one or more vital parameters depending on which detected radar signal of the three or more detected radar signals is assigned to which body region of the plurality of body regions.

[0024] According to one embodiment, for example, each of the one or more vital parameters can be assigned to one or more of the plurality of body regions. The evaluation unit can, for example, be configured to determine information about one of the one or more vital parameters depending on which of the plurality of body regions is assigned to said one or more vital parameters.

[0025] In one embodiment, the evaluation unit can be designed, for example, to determine information about one of the one or more vital parameters depending on which of the two or more reflected radar signals is or are assigned to a body region of the plurality of body regions that are assigned to said vital parameter of the one or more vital parameters.

[0026] According to one embodiment, the radar device may, for example, be configured to select a distance channel from two or more distance channels, which is associated with one of the two or more distance steps, which is associated with a body region of the plurality of body regions, which is associated with said vital parameter, in order to detect one of the one or more detected radar signals.

[0027] In one embodiment, the radar device can, for example, be designed to select a second distance channel from two or more distance channels, which is assigned to one of the two or more distance steps, which is assigned to a body region of the plurality of body regions, which is assigned to the said vital parameter, in order to detect a second of the one or more detected radar signals, if a selection of a first distance channel from the two or more distance channels has led to the detection of a first of the one or more detected radar signals, which was classified by the evaluation unit as insufficiently informative.

[0028] According to one embodiment, the radar device may, for example, be configured to select two or more distance channels, each of the two or more distance channels being associated with one of two or more distance steps, each of which is associated with a body region of the plurality of body regions associated with said vital parameter, in order to detect the two or more detected radar signals.

[0029] According to one embodiment, one or more vital parameters can be assigned, for example, one or more frequencies and / or one or more frequency ranges. The evaluation unit can be configured, for example, to determine the information about said vital parameter depending on a periodic change in one of the one or more detected radar signals, which has a frequency that corresponds to one of the one or more frequencies assigned to said vital parameter and / or that lies in one of the one or more frequency ranges assigned to said vital parameter.

[0030] In one embodiment, the evaluation unit can, for example, be designed to determine the information about one of the one or more vital parameters depending on which body regions of the plurality of body regions are assigned the one or more reflected radar signals in which the periodic change occurs.

[0031] According to one embodiment, the radar device can, for example, implement a frequency-modulated continuous wave radar.

[0032] In one embodiment, the system can comprise, for example, one or more additional radar devices for emitting additional first radar waves and for detecting additional reflected radar waves caused by reflection of the additional first radar waves from the person or from the person's body covering. The evaluation unit can be configured, for example, to determine the information about the one or more vital parameters of the person depending on the additional reflected radar waves. The one or more additional radar devices can be configured, for example, to emit the additional first radar waves from a different angle relative to the person's position.

[0033] According to one embodiment, the radar device can be positioned, for example, such that the radar device is closest to a first body region of a plurality of body regions of the human being. At least one of the one or more further radar devices can be positioned, for example, such that said at least one of the one or more further radar devices is closest to a second body region of a plurality of body regions of the human being, which is different from the first body region.

[0034] Furthermore, a method for determining information about one or more vital parameters of a human is provided according to one embodiment. The method comprises:

[0035] Emission of first radar waves by a radar device.

[0036] Determining information about one or more of a person's vital parameters based on the reflected radar waves using an evaluation unit. And:

[0037] Evaluation of the reflected radar waves by an evaluation unit in order to determine information about one or more vital parameters of the person.

[0038] The radar device is arranged laterally to the person relative to a position of the person in such a way that a virtual point exists in a foot of the person and such that a virtual point exists in the radar device such that the virtual point in the radar device is closer to the virtual point in the person's foot than to any virtual point in a navel of the person. Or, the radar device is arranged laterally to the person relative to the position of the person in such a way that a virtual point exists in a head of the person and such that a virtual point exists in the radar device such that the virtual point in the radar device is closer to the virtual point in the person's head than to any virtual point in the navel of the person. According to one embodiment, the radar device can, for example, be arranged relative to the position of the person in such a way that the radar device is positioned in front of the person instead of behind the person.

[0039] In one embodiment, the radar device may, for example, be arranged laterally to the human relative to the position of the human such that the radar device is arranged below the human's navel and below the human's foot, or such that the radar device is arranged above the human's navel and above the human's head.

[0040] According to one embodiment, the radar device can detect one or more detected radar signals, for example depending on the reflected radar waves, wherein each detected radar signal of the one or more detected radar signals is assigned to exactly one distance step of two or more distance steps. Each of the two or more distance steps can, for example, be assigned to one body region of a plurality of body regions of the human, so that the detected radar signal of the one or more detected radar signals that is assigned to this distance step is assigned to the said body region. The evaluation unit can determine information about one of the one or more vital parameters, for example depending on which detected radar signal of the one or more detected radar signals is assigned to which body region of the plurality of body regions.

[0041] In one embodiment, each of the two or more spacing steps can be assigned, for example, to one body region of a plurality of body regions of the human, so that a body of the human is completely divided into the plurality of body regions by the two or more spacing steps, so that the plurality of body regions together cover the body of the human.

[0042] According to one embodiment, the one or more detected radar signals can be, for example, two or more detected radar signals. In this case, the radar device can detect the two or more detected radar signals, for example, wherein each detected radar signal of the two or more detected radar signals is assigned to exactly one distance step of the two or more distance steps. Each of the two or more distance steps can, for example, be assigned to a body region of the plurality of body regions of the person, so that the detected radar signal of the two or more detected radar signals that is assigned to this distance step is assigned to the said body region. The evaluation unit can, for example, determine information about the said one of the one or more vital parameters depending on which detected radar signal of the two or more detected radar signals is assigned to which body region of the plurality of body regions.

[0043] In one embodiment, the evaluation unit can, for example, create a body model of the human depending on the two or more detected radar signals, which indicates which radar signal is assigned to which body region of the plurality of body regions of the human.

[0044] In one embodiment, each of the two or more detected radar signals may, for example, be associated with exactly one body region of the two or more body regions to which no other of the two or more detected radar signals is associated.

[0045] According to one embodiment, the one or more vital parameters can be, for example, two or more vital parameters. The evaluation unit can, for example, determine information about the two or more vital parameters depending on which of the two or more detected radar signals is assigned to which of the plurality of body regions.

[0046] In one embodiment, the two or more detected radar signals can be, for example, three or more detected radar signals, wherein the two or more distance steps are three or more distance steps. The radar device can, for example, detect the three or more detected radar signals, wherein each detected radar signal of the three or more detected radar signals is assigned to exactly one distance step of the three or more distance steps. Each of the three or more distance steps can, for example, be assigned to a body region of the plurality of body regions of the human, so that the detected radar signal of the three or more detected radar signals that is assigned to this distance step is assigned to the said body region. The evaluation unit can, for example,Determine information about said one of the one or more vital parameters depending on which detected radar signal of the three or more detected radar signals is assigned to which body region of the plurality of body regions.

[0047] According to one embodiment, each of the one or more vital parameters can be assigned, for example, one or more of the plurality of body regions. The evaluation unit can determine information about one of the one or more vital parameters, for example, depending on which of the plurality of body regions are assigned to said one of the one or more vital parameters. In one embodiment, the evaluation unit can, for example, determine information about one of the one or more vital parameters depending on which of the two or more reflected radar signals is or are assigned to a body region of the plurality of body regions that are assigned to said vital parameter of the one or more vital parameters.

[0048] According to one embodiment, the radar device may, for example, select a distance channel from two or more distance channels associated with one of the two or more distance steps associated with a body region of the plurality of body regions associated with said vital parameter in order to detect one of the one or more detected radar signals.

[0049] In one embodiment, the radar device can, for example, select a second distance channel from two or more distance channels, which is assigned to one of the two or more distance steps, which is assigned to a body region of the plurality of body regions, which is assigned to the said vital parameter, in order to detect a second of the one or more detected radar signals, if a selection of a first distance channel from the two or more distance channels has led to the detection of a first of the one or more detected radar signals, which was classified by the evaluation unit as insufficiently informative.

[0050] According to one embodiment, the radar device may, for example, select two or more distance channels, each of the two or more distance channels being associated with one of two or more distance steps, each of which is associated with a body region of the plurality of body regions associated with said vital parameter, in order to detect the two or more detected radar signals.

[0051] According to one embodiment, one or more vital parameters can be assigned, for example, one or more frequencies and / or one or more frequency ranges. The evaluation unit can, for example, determine the information about said vital parameter based on a periodic change in one of the one or more detected radar signals, which has a frequency that corresponds to one of the one or more frequencies assigned to said vital parameter and / or that lies in one of the one or more frequency ranges assigned to said vital parameter.

[0052] In one embodiment, the evaluation unit can, for example, be designed to determine the information about one of the one or more vital parameters depending on which body regions of the plurality of body regions are assigned the one or more reflected radar signals in which the periodic change occurs.

[0053] According to one embodiment, the radar device can, for example, implement a frequency-modulated continuous wave radar.

[0054] In one embodiment, the system can comprise, for example, one or more additional radar devices that emit additional first radar waves and detect additional reflected radar waves caused by reflection of the additional first radar waves from the person or from the person's body covering. The evaluation unit can, for example, determine information about the person's one or more vital parameters based on the additional reflected radar waves. The one or more additional radar devices can, for example, emit the additional first radar waves from a different angle relative to the person's position.

[0055] According to one embodiment, the radar device can be positioned, for example, such that the radar device is closest to a first body region of a plurality of body regions of the human being. At least one of the one or more further radar devices can be positioned, for example, such that said at least one of the one or more further radar devices is closest to a second body region of a plurality of body regions of the human being, which is different from the first body region.

[0056] Furthermore, a computer program with a program code for carrying out one of the methods described above is provided according to one embodiment.

[0057] Preferred embodiments of the invention are described below with reference to the drawings.

[0058] The drawings show:

[0059] Fig. 1 shows a system for determining information about one or more vital parameters of a human according to one embodiment.

[0060] Fig. 2 shows a specific lateral positioning of the radar device relative to the person according to a first embodiment. Fig. 3 shows a specific lateral positioning of the radar device relative to the person according to a second embodiment.

[0061] Fig. 4 shows a schematic diagram of a lateral radar view of a lying person according to one embodiment.

[0062] Fig. 1 shows a system for determining information about one or more vital parameters of a human according to one embodiment.

[0063] The system comprises a radar device 110 for emitting first radar waves and for detecting reflected radar waves caused by reflection of the first radar waves from the person or from a body covering of the person.

[0064] Furthermore, the system comprises an evaluation unit 120 for determining information about one or more vital parameters of the person depending on the reflected radar waves.

[0065] According to the invention, a special positioning of the radar device 110 relative to the person is now provided:

[0066] Fig. 2 shows a specific lateral positioning of the radar device 110 relative to the human according to a first embodiment. According to this, the radar device 110 is arranged laterally relative to the human's position such that a virtual point 211 exists in a foot 210 of the human and a virtual point 111 exists in the radar device 110 such that the virtual point 111 in the radar device 110 is closer to the virtual point 211 in the foot 210 of the human than to any virtual point 221 in the navel 220 of the human.

[0067] Fig. 3 shows a specific lateral positioning of the radar device 110 relative to the human according to a second embodiment. According to this, the radar device 110 is arranged laterally relative to the human's position such that a virtual point 231 exists in a head 230 of the human and such that a virtual point 111 exists in the radar device 110 such that the virtual point 111 in the radar device 110 is closer to the virtual point 231 in the head 230 of the human than to any virtual point 221 in the navel 220 of the human. Thus, the embodiments of Figs. 2 and 3 represent a paradigm shift. It is generally assumed that the best radar results are achieved when radar waves strike a body perpendicularly, in this case the body of a human, because from there a maximum approach and distance relative to the radar can be observed.From this perspective, the direct distance between the radar and the abdomen changes maximally during breathing, resulting in a maximal change in the signal strength of the electromagnetic wave. However, embodiments of the invention are based on the realization that this leads to ambiguities and overlaps that are difficult to resolve. Therefore, the lateral positioning defined above is chosen.

[0068] Another advantage of lateral positioning is that an object closer to the radar reflects a stronger signal than objects further away. This effect is comparable to a hand directly in front of a light bulb, which is brighter than a hand far away from the light bulb. If the radar is located at the end of the foot, for example, the feet are closer to the radar and therefore reflect a stronger signal. This makes it very easy to detect small pulse movements on the surface of the feet. The lateral position therefore creates a "magnification effect" on the part of the body closest to the radar. This further simplifies pulse detection, which would otherwise be more difficult.

[0069] According to one embodiment, the radar device 110 can, for example, be arranged relative to the position of the person such that the radar device 110 is positioned in front of the person rather than behind the person. This is illustrated, for example, for a lying person in Fig. 3. Since the radar device 110 in Fig. 3 is located above the dashed line 311 and not below the solid line 312, the position of the radar device 110 relative to the person in Fig. 3 fulfills this definition. This embodiment is based on the inventors' finding that vital parameters can often be better detected from movements on the front of the person (movement of the chest, abdomen, etc.) than on the back.

[0070] In one embodiment, the radar device 110 can, for example, be arranged laterally relative to the person's position such that the radar device 110 is arranged below the person's navel 220 and below the person's foot 210. This embodiment is shown in Fig. 2. Since in Fig. 2 the radar device 110 is located to the left of the dashed line 341 and thus below the person's foot 210 (and the navel 220), the definition is met. By appropriately positioning the radar device 110 relative to the person, overlaps and ambiguities are avoided.

[0071] Or, in a further embodiment, the radar device 110 can be arranged, for example, laterally relative to the position of the person, such that the radar device 110 is arranged above the person's navel and above the person's head. This embodiment is shown in Fig. 3. Since in Fig. 3 the radar device 110 is located to the right of the dashed line 342 and thus above the person's head 230 (and navel 220), the definition is met. By appropriately positioning the radar device 110 relative to the person, overlaps and ambiguities are avoided.

[0072] In Fig. 2 and Fig. 3, it can be provided that the dashed lines 341 and 342 are perpendicular / at right angles to the solid line 312. The solid line 312 can, for example, represent a surface on which the person is lying. Alternatively, the solid line 312 can, for example, also be a virtual line parallel to a median line through an imaginary cross-section of the person.

[0073] In Fig. 3, the lines 311 and 312 can, for example, be selected such that each of the two lines represents a cross-section through one of two surfaces, both surfaces being parallel to each other, that the human body borders both parallel surfaces, that the human body does not exceed the surface whose cross-section is represented by the line 311 upwards and that the human body does not fall below the surface whose cross-section is represented by the line 312 downwards.

[0074] According to one embodiment, the radar device 110 can, for example, be designed to detect one or more detected radar signals depending on the reflected radar waves, wherein each detected radar signal of the one or more detected radar signals is assigned to exactly one distance step of two or more distance steps. In this case, for example, each of the two or more distance steps can be assigned to a body region of a plurality of body regions of the human, so that the detected radar signal of the one or more detected radar signals that is assigned to this distance step is assigned to the said body region. The evaluation unit 120 can, for example, be designed to determine information about one of the one or more vital parameters depending on which detected radar signal of the one or more detected radar signals is assigned to which body region of the plurality of body regions.By this embodiment, one or more detected radar signals can be acquired which are associated with a specific body region of a plurality of body regions (see Fig. 2; body regions 251, 252, 253, 254, 255, 256, 257, 258, 259, 260, 261, 262, 263, 264, 265, 266, 267, 268, 269, 270, 271, 272).

[0075] In one embodiment, each of the two or more spacing steps can be assigned to a body region, e.g., a plurality of body regions of the human, such that a human body is completely divided into the plurality of body regions by the two or more spacing steps, such that the plurality of body regions together cover the human body. See again Fig. 2 and there the body regions 251, 252, 253, 254, 255, 256, 257, 258, 259, 260, 261,

[0076] 262, 263, 264, 265, 266, 267, 268, 269, 270, 271, 272. This embodiment thus (indirectly) creates a clear assignment of the detected radar signal to one of the body regions 251, 252, 253, 254, 255, 256, 257, 258, 259, 260, 261, 262,

[0077] 263, 264, 265, 266, 267, 268, 269, 270, 271 , 272.

[0078] According to one embodiment, for example, the one or more detected radar signals can be two or more detected radar signals. In this case, for example, the radar device 110 can be designed to detect the two or more detected radar signals, wherein each detected radar signal of the two or more detected radar signals is assigned to exactly one distance step of the two or more distance steps. Each of the two or more distance steps can, for example, be assigned to a body region of the plurality of body regions of the human, so that the detected radar signal of the two or more detected radar signals that is assigned to this distance step is assigned to the said body region. The evaluation unit 120 can, for example,be configured to determine information about said one of the one or more vital parameters depending on which detected radar signal of the two or more detected radar signals is assigned to which body region of the plurality of body regions. This embodiment makes it possible to obtain radar information for one vital parameter from different body regions and / or to detect radar information for two or more vital parameters simultaneously.

[0079] In one embodiment, the evaluation unit 120 can, for example, be designed to create a body model of the human depending on the two or more detected radar signals, which indicates which radar signal is assigned to which of the plurality of body regions of the human. For example, a typical breathing rate can / will be detectable primarily in the lung and abdominal region, but unlikely in the arms and feet of a human. Movements triggered by a pulse, on the other hand, are likely to be detectable throughout the body. By appropriately analyzing the two or more detected radar signals, it is therefore possible to determine, based on typical movement frequencies, where a human's abdominal and lung region is located and where a human's extremities are located. Accordingly, a body model can be created by evaluating typical movement frequencies.

[0080] In one embodiment, for example, each of the two or more detected radar signals can be assigned to exactly one of the two or more body regions to which no other of the two or more detected radar signals is assigned. This embodiment enables a clear assignment of radar signals to body regions.

[0081] According to one embodiment, the one or more vital parameters can be, for example, two or more vital parameters. The evaluation unit 120 can, for example, be configured to determine information about the two or more vital parameters depending on which of the two or more detected radar signals is assigned to which body region of the plurality of body regions. In such an embodiment, information about more than one vital parameter can thus be obtained simultaneously.

[0082] In one embodiment, the two or more detected radar signals can be, for example, three or more detected radar signals, wherein the two or more distance steps are three or more distance steps. The radar device 110 can, for example, be designed to detect the three or more detected radar signals, wherein each detected radar signal of the three or more detected radar signals is assigned to exactly one distance step of the three or more distance steps. Each of the three or more distance steps can, for example, be assigned to a body region of the plurality of body regions of the human, so that the detected radar signal of the three or more detected radar signals that is assigned to this distance step is assigned to said body region. The evaluation unit 120 can, for example,be configured to determine information about said one of the one or more vital parameters depending on which detected radar signal of the three or more detected radar signals is associated with which body region of the plurality of body regions.

[0083] According to one embodiment, for example, each of the one or more vital parameters can be assigned to one or more body regions of the plurality of body regions. The evaluation unit 120 can, for example, be configured to determine information about one of the one or more vital parameters depending on which of the plurality of body regions is assigned to said one or more vital parameters.

[0084] In one embodiment, the evaluation unit 120 may, for example, be configured to determine information about one of the one or more vital parameters depending on which of the two or more reflected radar signals is or are associated with a body region of the plurality of body regions associated with said vital parameter of the one or more vital parameters.

[0085] According to one embodiment, the radar device 110 may, for example, be configured to select a distance channel from two or more distance channels that is associated with one of the two or more distance steps that is associated with a body region of the plurality of body regions that is associated with said vital parameter in order to detect one of the one or more detected radar signals.

[0086] In one embodiment, the radar device 110 can, for example, be configured to select a second distance channel from two or more distance channels, which is assigned to one of the two or more distance steps, which is assigned to a body region of the plurality of body regions, which is assigned to the said vital parameter, in order to detect a second of the one or more detected radar signals, if a selection of a first distance channel from the two or more distance channels has led to the detection of a first of the one or more detected radar signals, which was classified by the evaluation unit 120 as insufficiently informative.

[0087] According to one embodiment, the radar device 110 may, for example, be configured to select two or more distance channels, each of the two or more distance channels being associated with one of two or more distance steps, each of which is associated with a body region of the plurality of body regions associated with said vital parameter, in order to detect the two or more detected radar signals.

[0088] According to one embodiment, one or more vital parameters can be assigned, for example, one or more frequencies and / or one or more frequency ranges. The evaluation unit 120 can be configured, for example, to determine the information about said vital parameter depending on a periodic change in one of the one or more detected radar signals, which has a frequency that corresponds to one of the one or more frequencies assigned to said vital parameter and / or that lies in one of the one or more frequency ranges assigned to said vital parameter.

[0089] In one embodiment, the evaluation unit 120 can, for example, be designed to determine the information about one of the one or more vital parameters depending on which body regions of the plurality of body regions are assigned the one or more reflected radar signals in which the periodic change occurs.

[0090] According to one embodiment, the radar device 110 can, for example, implement a frequency-modulated continuous wave radar.

[0091] In one embodiment, the system can comprise, for example, one or more further radar devices for emitting further first radar waves and for detecting further reflected radar waves caused by reflection of the further first radar waves from the person or from the person's body covering. The evaluation unit 120 can be configured, for example, to determine the information about the one or more vital parameters of the person depending on the further reflected radar waves. The one or more further radar devices can be configured, for example, to emit the further first radar waves from a different angle relative to the person's position.

[0092] According to one embodiment, the radar device 110 can be positioned, for example, such that the radar device 110 is closest to a first body region (body region) of a plurality of body regions of the human being. At least one of the one or more further radar devices can be positioned, for example, such that said at least one of the one or more further radar devices is closest to a second body region (body region) of a plurality of body regions of the human being, which is different from the first body region.

[0093] Such an embodiment also makes particular use of the effect described above, namely that an object closer to the radar reflects a stronger signal than objects further away. If one or more additional radar signals are used, emitted from a different angle relative to the person's position, the proximity of the various body regions to the one or more additional radar devices also changes compared to the first radar device. This allows the one or more additional radar devices to select a different measurement accuracy for each body region by setting the distance between the body region and the respective radar device differently. This way, each of the radar devices can be particularly focused on a specific body region.

[0094] Particular embodiments of the invention are described in detail below.

[0095] In some embodiments, a fixed radar position is provided, from which the person is viewed from the side. This makes it possible to divide the human body into individual, distinguishable sections, for example, from the feet to the head. These distinguishable sections form the basis for separating heartbeat and respiration.

[0096] A radar basically measures distances by dividing the space in front of the radar into individual distance steps.

[0097] The width of the distance steps can depend, for example, on the radar's distance resolution. If an object is located in such a section, the corresponding measured values ​​there will be high.

[0098] In one embodiment, the spacing steps may be, for example, 5 cm.

[0099] In another embodiment, for example, an upper-lower body model could be used, with the spacing increments being 25 cm instead of 5 cm. However, this makes it more difficult to separate the vital parameters with 25 cm spacing increments compared to 5 cm spacing increments.

[0100] If the radar looks at the person from the side (e.g., from the foot of a bed at a person lying down), the person's entire body is divided into individual sections. Based on this, a rough model of the body can be created. If the person breathes, the values ​​near the abdominal cavity change periodically. If the heart beats, the pulse can be detected, for example, in the upper chest due to a different frequency during breathing and a lower amplitude. By spatially segmenting the radar response, the pulse can also be detected at other body locations, e.g., at the foot. The basis of the vital parameters is located at different distances and is thus already spatially separated. This spatial segmentation, in conjunction with an analysis and evaluation unit 120, allows the desired signal to be recorded at different body positions. This unit can have various forms:

[0101] In a first embodiment, a direct selection of a distance channel that best represents the desired body signal can be provided. The direct selection of the distance channel thus determines a signal that is particularly free from interference from other body signals.

[0102] In a second embodiment, several distance channels are used from which the desired body signal is calculated by multi-channel processing, for example by means of correlation.

[0103] In a third embodiment, a method as in the first embodiment or as in the second embodiment is used, wherein a body model is used as a basis which uses knowledge about the position of the body and / or prior knowledge about the expected signal and / or about possible disturbances at specific body positions.

[0104] Fig. 4 shows a schematic diagram of a lateral radar view of a lying person according to one embodiment.

[0105] An example based on Fig. 4 would be the measurement from the foot of the bed. The radar is looking at a person lying down, whose feet are closest to the radar and whose head is farthest from the radar.

[0106] For example, the radar divides the person into five-centimeter steps starting from the feet and ending at the head.

[0107] For example, using several radar antennas in the device, a rough 3D model of the person can be created.

[0108] For example, if the person breathes, a periodic movement in the frequency range of human breathing should be visible approximately in the center of the body. For example, if the heartbeat is detected, the pulse should be visible across the entire body—for example, across all distances that could be attributed to the person, since the entire body has a pulse. For example, if the person moves their foot while sleeping (restless leg syndrome), movement should be detected near the foot of the bed.

[0109] For example, these movements can be divided into individual distance steps during the measurement recording. Separating all these movements is then less complex to evaluate than recording data above or below the body, where the data is more heavily superimposed. Better separation of the signals during the recording allows for more robust parameter detection.

[0110] In one embodiment, a radar can be positioned lateral to a lying person, for example, at the edge of a bed, so that from the radar position, a person can be seen from the side. The person can be divided into individual distance steps. For example, a 3D model for vital sign extraction can be created from the radar data.

[0111] Preferably, the position of a radar transceiver (or a radar transmitter and a radar receiver) may be above the head or at the foot of the bed.

[0112] In some embodiments, a clear distinction can be made between abdominal and chest breathing, for example.

[0113] The effect of the lateral view and the division of the human (especially into multiple distance steps) simplifies vital sign analysis by eliminating superimposed, complex signals in the raw data. This also eliminates the need to separate this signal into individual vital signs using complex algorithms, making the overall analysis more robust.

[0114] While dropouts in vital sign detection are still possible, they are less likely than with a more complex underlying signal. Furthermore, dropouts can be identified and interpreted using a model of the body. For example, the heartbeat pulse in the model should reach every part of the body, while respiratory movement should only be located in the center of the body. The validity and traceability of the individual results are higher with this approach than with previous approaches.

[0115] Further embodiments of the invention are described below: In embodiments, a person can be divided (subdivided) into different distance steps by means of radar, by means of which vital parameters along the body can be detected.

[0116] According to embodiments, this can be enabled by a lateral view (from the radar) of the person, for example, preferably from a head-to-toes or feet-to-head perspective. The radar, for example, views the person at an angle.

[0117] In some embodiments, distance bins can be used, which are multiple distance channels in which vital parameters are visible. Vital parameters in the distance bins can be detected, for example, based on changes in values ​​over time within a frequency range that is normal for humans. For example, respiration can be in a range of 0.1 Hz - 0.58 Hz, and heart rate can be in a range of 0.8 Hz - 2 Hz.

[0118] According to embodiments, detection of a human body can be performed based on the vital parameters in the spatially segmented radar signals.

[0119] For example, every part of the human body should have a pulse and reflect radar radiation. The radar radiation penetrates fabric, such as clothing and bedding, leaving the body surface visible. The pulse can be used to estimate the body's boundaries, in addition to normal object detection by radar (object reflection). The upper body, where the pulse is masked by breathing, can be detected by breathing.

[0120] In embodiments, it can be used that the movement of the body is visible based on the movement of the distance bins with detected vital parameters.

[0121] According to embodiments, a simplified evaluation can be performed by observing the vital parameters at different locations along the body, for example a pulse at the foot and / or forehead, and / or breathing along the upper body.

[0122] In embodiments, simpler vital sign extraction can be achieved by reducing the overlap of movements at specific body parts. For example, respiration can be clearly extracted from the chest, while a heartbeat can be clearly extracted from the forehead / feet. According to embodiments, more robust vital sign detection can be achieved through multiple vital sign locations.

[0123] For example, a comparison can be made between multiple vital sign locations. For example, a person should have the same pulse rate along the body.

[0124] For example, embodiments may provide for selecting alternative locations if usual vital parameter locations are obscured.

[0125] In embodiments, the body model can be further enhanced by viewing the person from multiple angles, for example, by using two (or more) radars and / or multiple antennas. This allows a person to be divided / subdivided into distance steps simultaneously from different angles.

[0126] According to embodiments, for example, the creation of a 3D model can be realized on the basis of this information.

[0127] In embodiments, better data quality (e.g., better signal-to-noise ratio, SNR) can be realized by viewing the same situation from different angles and, for example, comparing the measurements.

[0128] According to embodiments, for example, more information can be obtained about an ongoing movement of a body, for example of arms and / or legs, since the movement is observed from different directions.

[0129] In some embodiments, a defined radar position can be used to provide additional information about the situation. For example, the radar can be deliberately mounted at the foot end, so that the foot is seen first in the analysis. This can be taken into account in the analysis.

[0130] According to embodiments, for example, a model of the body can be created and / or used to interpret the information from the spatially segmented radar signals. This information can be used, for example, to identify position, expected movements, and pathological conditions based on the body model. In embodiments, for example, vital parameters can be identified not only by frequency, but also by a probable location of the vital parameter relative to the rest of the body model. For example, a normal body model in which breathing also occurs at the foot can be classified as inadmissible.

[0131] According to embodiments, for example, detection of the upper body can be carried out by detecting breathing and heartbeat signals in closely spaced distance bins.

[0132] In some embodiments, information about the body's supply can be obtained based on the presence of a pulse along the body. For example, it can be determined that there is no pulse at the feet, but there is a pulse everywhere else.

[0133] Embodiments of a model of a body can, for example, be based on the assumption that the human body cannot change at an unlimited rate. This can further assume, for example, that the location and frequency of vital parameters cannot fluctuate arbitrarily between measurements.

[0134] According to embodiments, information can be obtained that serves to differentiate between obstructive and central apnea by observing breathing along the upper body. For example, in central apnea, there may be no abdominal movement; in obstructive apnea, abdominal and chest breathing may not be synchronized.

[0135] In a specific embodiment, an FMCW radar (frequency-modulated continuous wave radar), e.g., in the frequency range of 60-64 GHz, can be used. This can, for example, provide information that can be used to detect sleep, respiratory, movement, and heart rate disorders.

[0136] According to embodiments, for example, more information about respiratory events such as coughing / snoring can be obtained by observing the entire body, e.g. snoring at the larynx and abdomen.

[0137] Applications for contactless measurement of vital parameters through a lateral view and segmentation of a sleeping person include sleep measurements. In this case, the person(s) lies in bed, and the radar is attached to the edge of the bed. Specific situations for this setup could include clinical sleep monitoring to obtain intermediate results that could be used for subsequent diagnosis (e.g., sleep disorders, circulatory disorders, motion sickness, mental illnesses).

[0138] Another field of application could be, for example, home or outpatient sleep monitoring to obtain intermediate results that could be used for subsequent diagnosis or to obtain results that could be used for private purposes.

[0139] Another field of application could be in clinical or home monitoring, for example in monitoring the effectiveness of positive air pressure systems (overpressure systems), e.g. for the treatment of apnea.

[0140] Another field of application could be, for example, sleep studies in science in order to gain insights into the relationship between different vital parameters.

[0141] Another field of application could be, for example, the surveillance of persons, e.g. during a prison sentence, e.g. in a prison.

[0142] Another field of application could be, for example, the contactless detection and differentiation of obstructive and central apnea and hypopnea.

[0143] Another field of application could be, for example, a combination with other sensors (e.g. audio, e.g. EEG) as an alternative to polysomnography.

[0144] Although some aspects have been described in the context of a device or system, it should be understood that these aspects also represent a description of the corresponding method, so that a block or component of a device or system may also be understood as a corresponding method step or as a feature of a method step. Analogously, aspects described in the context of or as a method step also represent a description of a corresponding block, detail, or feature of a corresponding device or system. Some or all of the method steps may be performed by (or using) a hardware device, such as a microprocessor, a programmable computer, or an electronic circuit.In some embodiments, some or more of the key method steps may be performed by such an apparatus.

[0145] Depending on specific implementation requirements, embodiments of the invention may be implemented in hardware or in software, or at least partially in hardware or at least partially in software. The implementation may be carried out using a digital storage medium, for example a floppy disk, a DVD, a Blu-ray disc, a CD, a ROM, a PROM, an EPROM, an EEPROM, or a FLASH memory, a hard disk, or other magnetic or optical storage device on which electronically readable control signals are stored that can interact or interact with a programmable computer system such that the respective method is carried out. Therefore, the digital storage medium may be computer-readable.

[0146] Some embodiments according to the invention thus comprise a data carrier having electronically readable control signals capable of interacting with a programmable computer system such that one of the methods described herein is carried out.

[0147] In general, embodiments of the present invention may be implemented as a computer program product having a program code, wherein the program code is effective to perform one of the methods when the computer program product is run on a computer.

[0148] The program code can, for example, also be stored on a machine-readable medium.

[0149] Other embodiments include the computer program for performing one of the methods described herein, wherein the computer program is stored on a machine-readable medium. In other words, one embodiment of the method according to the invention is thus a computer program that has program code for performing one of the methods described herein when the computer program is executed on a computer.

[0150] A further embodiment of the method according to the invention is thus a data carrier (or a digital storage medium or a computer-readable medium) on which the computer program for performing one of the methods described herein is recorded. The data carrier or the digital storage medium or the computer-readable medium is typically tangible and / or non-transitory.

[0151] A further embodiment of the method according to the invention is thus a data stream or a sequence of signals that represents the computer program for carrying out one of the methods described herein. The data stream or the sequence of signals can be configured, for example, to be transferred via a data communication connection, for example, via the Internet.

[0152] A further embodiment comprises a processing device, for example a computer or a programmable logic device, which is configured or adapted to carry out one of the methods described herein.

[0153] A further embodiment comprises a computer on which the computer program for performing one of the methods described herein is installed.

[0154] A further embodiment according to the invention comprises a device or system designed to transmit a computer program for performing at least one of the methods described herein to a recipient. The transmission can be electronic or optical, for example. The recipient can be, for example, a computer, a mobile device, a storage device, or a similar device. The device or system can, for example, comprise a file server for transmitting the computer program to the recipient.

[0155] In some embodiments, a programmable logic device (e.g., a field-programmable gate array, an FPGA) may be used to perform some or all of the functionalities of the methods described herein. In some embodiments, a field-programmable gate array may cooperate with a microprocessor to perform any of the methods described herein. In general, in some embodiments, the methods are performed by any hardware device. This may be general-purpose hardware such as a computer processor (CPU) or method-specific hardware such as an ASIC.

[0156] The above-described embodiments are merely illustrative of the principles of the present invention. It is understood that modifications and variations of the arrangements and details described herein will be apparent to others skilled in the art. Therefore, it is intended that the invention be limited only by the scope of the following claims and not by the specific details presented in the description and explanation of the embodiments herein.

Claims

A system for determining information about one or more vital parameters of a human, the system comprising: a radar device (110) for emitting first radar waves and for detecting reflected radar waves caused by reflection of the first radar waves on the human or on a body covering of the human, and an evaluation unit (120) for determining information about the one or more vital parameters of the human depending on the reflected radar waves, the radar device (110) being arranged laterally to the human relative to a position of the human in such a way that a virtual point (211) exists in a foot (210) of the human and that a virtual point (111) exists in the radar device (110),such that the virtual point (111) in the radar device (110) is closer to the virtual point (211) in the foot (210) of the person than to any virtual point (221) in a navel (220) of the person; or wherein the radar device (110) is arranged laterally to the person relative to the position of the person such that a virtual point (231) exists in a head (230) of the person, and such that a virtual point (111) exists in the radar device (110) such that the virtual point (111) in the radar device (110) is closer to the virtual point (231) in the head (230) of the person than to any virtual point (221) in the navel (220) of the person. The system of claim 1, wherein the radar device (110) is arranged relative to the position of the person such that the radar device (110) is positioned in front of the person rather than behind the person. System according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the radar device (110) is arranged laterally to the human relative to the position of the human such that the radar device (110) is arranged below the human's navel and below the human's foot, or such that the radar device (110) is arranged above the human's navel and above the human's head.System according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the radar device (110) is designed to detect one or more detected radar signals depending on the reflected radar waves, wherein each detected radar signal of the one or more detected radar signals is assigned to exactly one distance step of two or more distance steps, wherein each of the two or more distance steps is assigned to a body region of a plurality of body regions of the human, such that the detected radar signal of the one or more detected radar signals that is assigned to this distance step is assigned to said body region, wherein the evaluation unit (120) is designed to determine information about one of the one or more vital parameters depending on which detected radar signal of the one or more detected radar signals is assigned to which body region of the plurality of body regions.The system according to claim 4, wherein each of the two or more spacing steps is assigned to a body region of a plurality of body regions of the human, such that a body of the human is completely divided into the plurality of body regions by the two or more spacing steps, such that the plurality of body regions together cover the body of the human. The system according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the one or more detected radar signals are two or more detected radar signals, wherein the radar device (110) is configured to detect the two or more detected radar signals, wherein each detected radar signal of the two or more. more detected radar signals is assigned to exactly one distance step of the two or more distance steps, wherein each of the two or more distance steps is assigned to a body region of the plurality of body regions of the human, so that the detected radar signal of the two or more detected radar signals that is assigned to this distance step is assigned to said body region, wherein the evaluation unit (120) is designed to determine information about said one of the one or more vital parameters depending on which detected radar signal of the two or more detected radar signals is assigned to which body region of the plurality of body regions. System according to claim 6, wherein the evaluation unit (120) is designed to create a body model of the human, depending on the two or more detected radar signals, which body model indicates which radar signal is assigned to which body region of the plurality of body regions of the human.The system according to claim 6 or 7, wherein each of the two or more detected radar signals is assigned to exactly one body region of the two or more body regions to which no other of the two or more detected radar signals is assigned. The system according to any one of claims 6 to 8, wherein the one or more vital parameters are two or more vital parameters, wherein the evaluation unit (120) is configured to determine information about the two or more vital parameters depending on which detected radar signal of the two or more detected radar signals is assigned to which body region of the plurality of body regions. The system according to any one of claims 6 to 9. wherein the two or more detected radar signals are three or more detected radar signals, wherein the two or more distance steps are three or more distance steps, wherein the radar device (110) is designed to detect the three or more detected radar signals, wherein each detected radar signal of the three or more detected radar signals is assigned to exactly one distance step of the three or more distance steps, wherein each of the three or more distance steps is assigned to a body region of the plurality of body regions of the human, so that the detected radar signal of the three or more detected radar signals that is assigned to this distance step is assigned to said body region, wherein the evaluation unit (120) is designed to determine information about said one of the one or more vital parameters depending thereon,which of the three or more detected radar signals is assigned to which body area of ​​the plurality of body areas.

11. System according to one of claims 4 to 10, wherein each of the one or more vital parameters is assigned to one or more of the plurality of body regions, wherein the evaluation unit (120) is designed to determine information about one of the one or more vital parameters depending on which of the plurality of body regions are assigned to said one or more vital parameters.

12. System according to one of claims 6 to 10, and according to claim 11, wherein the evaluation unit (120) is designed to determine information about one of the one or more vital parameters depending on which of the two or more reflected radar signals is or are assigned to a body region of the plurality of body regions that are assigned to said vital parameter of the one or more vital parameters.

13. System according to claim 11 or 12, wherein the radar device (110) is configured to select a distance channel from two or more distance channels associated with one of the two or more distance steps associated with a body region of the plurality of body regions associated with said vital parameter in order to detect one of the one or more detected radar signals.

14. The system according to claim 13, wherein the radar device (110) is configured to select a second distance channel from two or more distance channels, which is assigned to one of the two or more distance steps, which is assigned to a body region of the plurality of body regions, which is assigned to the said vital parameter, in order to detect a second of the one or more detected radar signals, if a selection of a first distance channel from the two or more distance channels has led to the detection of a first of the one or more detected radar signals, which was classified by the evaluation unit (120) as insufficiently informative.

15. The system of claim 11 or 12, wherein the system is a system of claim 6, wherein the radar device (110) is configured to select two or more distance channels, each of the two or more distance channels being respectively associated with one of two or more distance steps, each of which is associated with a body region of the plurality of body regions associated with said vital parameter, to detect the two or more detected radar signals.

16. System according to one of claims 4 to 15, wherein one or more frequencies and / or one or more frequency ranges are assigned to a vital parameter of the one or more vital parameters, wherein the evaluation unit (120) is designed to determine the information about said vital parameter depending on a periodic change in one of the one or more detected radar signals, which has a frequency, which corresponds to one of the one or more frequencies associated with said vital parameter, and / or which lies in one of the one or more frequency ranges associated with said vital parameter.

17. The system according to claim 16, wherein the evaluation unit (120) is designed to determine the information about one of the one or more vital parameters depending on which body regions of the plurality of body regions are assigned the one or more reflected radar signals in which the periodic change occurs.

18. System according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the radar device (110) implements a frequency-modulated continuous wave radar.

19. System according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the system comprises one or more further radar devices for emitting further first radar waves and for detecting further reflected radar waves which were caused by reflection of the further first radar waves on the person or on the body covering of the person, wherein the evaluation unit (120) is designed to determine the information about the one or more vital parameters of the person depending on the further reflected radar waves, wherein the one or more further radar devices are designed to emit the further first radar waves from a different angle relative to the position of the person.

20. The system of claim 19, wherein the radar device (110) is positioned such that the radar device (110) is closest to a first body region of a plurality of body regions of the human, and wherein at least one of the one or more further radar devices is positioned such that said at least one of the one or more further radar devices is closest to a second body region of a plurality of body regions of the human being that is different from the first body region.

21. A method for determining information about one or more vital parameters of a human being, the method comprising: Emitting first radar waves by a radar device (110), Detecting reflected radar waves caused by reflection of the first radar waves from the person or from a body covering of the person by the radar device (110), and Determining the information about the one or more vital parameters of the person as a function of the reflected radar waves by an evaluation unit (120), wherein the radar device (110) is arranged laterally to the person relative to a position of the person in such a way that a virtual point (211) exists in a foot (210) of the person and that a virtual point (111) exists in the radar device (110) such that the virtual point (111) in the radar device (110) is closer to the virtual point (211) in the foot (210) of the person than to any virtual point (221) in a navel (220) of the person;or wherein the radar device (110) is arranged laterally to the human relative to the position of the human such that a virtual point (231) exists in a head (230) of the human and that a virtual point (111) exists in the radar device (110) such that the virtual point (111) in the radar device (110) is closer to the virtual point (231) in the head (230) of the human than to any virtual point (221) in the navel (220) of the human.; 22. The method according to claim 21, wherein the radar device (110) is arranged laterally relative to the position of the person such that the radar device (110) is arranged below the navel of the person and below the foot of the person, or so that the radar device (110) is arranged above the navel of the person and above the head of the person.

23. The method according to claim 21 or 22, wherein the radar device (110) detects one or more detected radar signals depending on the reflected radar waves, wherein each detected radar signal of the one or more detected radar signals is assigned to exactly one distance step of two or more distance steps, wherein each of the two or more distance steps is assigned to a body region of a plurality of body regions of the human, so that the detected radar signal of the one or more detected radar signals that is assigned to this distance step is assigned to said body region, wherein the evaluation unit (120) determines information about one of the one or more vital parameters depending on which detected radar signal of the one or more detected radar signals is assigned to which body region of the plurality of body regions.

24. The method of claim 23, wherein each of the two or more spacing steps is associated with a body region of a plurality of body regions of the human, such that a body of the human is completely divided into the plurality of body regions by the two or more spacing steps, such that the plurality of body regions together cover the body of the human.

25. The method according to claim 23 or 24, wherein the one or more detected radar signals are two or more detected radar signals, wherein the radar device (110) detects the two or more detected radar signals, wherein each detected radar signal of the two or more detected radar signals is assigned to exactly one distance step of the two or more distance steps, wherein each of the two or more distance steps is assigned to a body region of the plurality of body regions of the human, such that the detected radar signal of the two or more detected radar signals assigned to this distance step is assigned to said body region, wherein the evaluation unit (120) determines information about said one of the one or more vital parameters depending on which detected radar signal of the two or more detected radar signals is assigned to which body region of the plurality of body regions. The method according to claim 25, wherein the evaluation unit (120) creates a body model of the human depending on the two or more detected radar signals, which indicates which radar signal is assigned to which body region of the plurality of body regions of the human.Method according to one of claims 23 to 26, wherein each of the one or more vital parameters is assigned one or more of the plurality of body regions, wherein the evaluation unit (120) determines information about one of the one or more vital parameters depending on which of the plurality of body regions are assigned to said one or more vital parameters. Method according to one of claims 23 to 27, wherein one or more frequencies and / or one or more frequency ranges are assigned to a vital parameter of the one or more vital parameters, wherein the evaluation unit (120) determines the information about said vital parameter depending on a periodic change in one of the one or more detected radar signals which has a frequency which corresponds to one of the one or more frequencies corresponding to said vital parameter. are assigned, and / or which lies in one of the one or more frequency ranges assigned to said vital parameter. The method according to claim 28, wherein the evaluation unit (120) is configured to determine the information about one of the one or more vital parameters depending on which body regions of the plurality of body regions are assigned the one or more reflected radar signals in which the periodic change occurs.Method according to one of claims 21 to 29, wherein the system comprises one or more further radar devices which emit further first radar waves and which detect further reflected radar waves which were caused by reflection of the further first radar waves on the person or on the body covering of the person, wherein the evaluation unit (120) determines the information about the one or more vital parameters of the person depending on the further reflected radar waves, wherein the one or more further radar devices emit the further first radar waves from a different angle relative to the position of the person.The method of claim 30, wherein the radar device (110) is positioned such that the radar device (110) is closest to a first body region of a plurality of body regions of the human, and wherein at least one of the one or more further radar devices is positioned such that said at least one of the one or more further radar devices is closest to a second body region of a plurality of body regions of the human that is different from the first body region. Computer program with a program code for carrying out the method according to one of claims 21 to 31.

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