Augmented Reality CPR Guidance via Chest Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current CPR guidance devices are often cumbersome, require additional equipment, or are ineffective in real-time situations due to the need for instructions and separate feedback devices, which can lead to delays in untrained rescuers performing high-quality chest compressions during cardiac emergencies.
Innovation Solution
A portable device with a camera and display, capable of processing video to segment the chest region and provide real-time visual and audible feedback on hand positioning and vital signs, allowing untrained users to perform CPR effectively without additional hardware, using augmented reality and image processing to guide correct hand placement and monitor CPR quality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If dedicated CPR guidance devices are used, then CPR guidance quality is improved, but device availability and response time deteriorate due to the need to locate and set up specialized equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by making the portable device (smartphone or tablet) perform multiple functions: it serves as both a general-purpose computing device and a specialized CPR guidance system. The device uses its existing camera, display, and processor to provide chest compression guidance, hand positioning feedback, and vital sign monitoring without requiring dedicated CPR-specific hardware.
Solution Approach 2:
The portable device serves itself by using its own built-in components (camera for video capture, processor for image analysis, display for feedback) to provide CPR guidance. The device processes video from its own camera to detect hand position and provides feedback through its own display, eliminating the need for separate sensing and actuation components.
2Measurement precision
If additional dedicated devices are used for CPR feedback, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and ease of operation worsen due to multiple components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of video capture, image processing, and feedback display into a single integrated system. The portable device combines the camera module, processor with image recognition algorithms, and display into one unit, eliminating the need for separate video cameras, computers, and display devices that would otherwise be required.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces physical contact-based sensing mechanisms with optical-based image processing. Instead of using force sensors or tactile feedback devices to detect hand position and compression depth, the system uses video capture and image analysis to optically measure hand position relative to the chest, substituting mechanical sensing with optical fields.
3Ease of operation
If instructions are provided on portable devices, then accessibility is improved, but effectiveness deteriorates due to lack of real-time feedback
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements real-time feedback by continuously analyzing video of the patient's chest and the rescuer's hands, then providing immediate visual feedback on the display showing whether hands are correctly positioned and whether compression depth and rate are adequate. This closed-loop feedback system allows untrained rescuers to self-correct their technique in real-time.
Solution Approach 2:
The portable device acts as an intermediary between the rescuer and the patient by capturing video of the interaction, processing it through image recognition algorithms, and translating it into actionable feedback. The device mediates the complex task of CPR by breaking it down into observable visual elements (hand position, chest movement) and providing guidance based on those observations.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for guiding a user in performing a Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) procedure on a patient involving a user portable device comprising a camera, and a display. The method includes receiving a video of the patient captured by the camera, and processing the video to segment a chest region of the patient. A target position on the chest where to position hands for performing CPR is then determined, and this position is then shown on the display, hereby guiding the user in obtaining a suitable hand position for performing CPR. The method can be implemented as a software application in a personal portable device such as a smart phone, a tablet application software, a wearable computer with head-mounted display etc. Further, the video of the scene captured by the camera can be processed to provide information regarding functional quality of CPR, e.g. compression frequency and depth, during the CPR procedure. Further, vital signs of the patient such as heart rate, respiration rate, and blood oxygen saturation may be derived by image processing on the video, i.e. without any dedicated medical sensors. All such information can be provided as visual and/or audible feedback to the user during the CPR procedure, thus improving CPR effectiveness, also in case of an untrained user.