Breathing Pattern Identification Using Depth Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current respiratory monitoring technologies rely on contact sensors, which can cause patient discomfort and are less effective for elderly and neonatal patients, necessitating a non-contact, unobtrusive method for assessing breathing patterns.
Innovation Solution
A system and method using a depth-capable imaging system to process time-varying depth maps of a subject's thoracic region, generating a breathing signal for comparison with reference patterns to identify respiratory function without physical contact.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If contact sensors are used for respiratory monitoring, then measurement precision can be achieved, but patient comfort and dignity deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical contact sensors with an optical imaging system that captures video of the thoracic region. The system uses image processing algorithms to detect breathing patterns through visual changes in chest movement, eliminating the need for physical contact while maintaining measurement capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces video imaging as an intermediary between the monitoring system and the patient. Instead of direct sensor-to-skin contact, the system uses optical signals to capture breathing movements, creating a non-invasive measurement pathway that preserves patient comfort and dignity
2Reliability
If contact sensors are worn by patients, then respiratory events can be monitored, but device complexity and patient dependency increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the monitoring function from wearable contact sensors and relocates it to a remote imaging system. The sensing capability is separated from the patient's body, allowing monitoring without attachment devices, thereby reducing device complexity and patient dependency
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables the patient's own thoracic region to serve as the measurement target without requiring external sensors. The body's natural breathing movements are captured directly by the imaging system, eliminating the need for auxiliary sensing devices attached to the patient
3Reliability
If contact sensors are used for monitoring, then respiratory function can be assessed, but measurement reliability fails due to various reasons
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical contact sensors with an optical imaging system that is less susceptible to physical failures. The video-based approach eliminates issues related to sensor detachment, skin irritation, and mechanical wear, providing more consistent long-term monitoring
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a video imaging system that can serve multiple functions: capturing breathing patterns, monitoring thoracic movement, and providing visual records. This multi-functional approach reduces reliance on specialized single-purpose sensors that may fail
Data Source
AI summary
What is disclosed is a system and method for identifying a patient's breathing pattern for respiratory function assessment without contact and with a depth-capable imaging system. In one embodiment, a time-varying sequence of depth maps are received of a target region of a subject of interest over a period of inspiration and expiration. Once received, the depth maps are processed to obtain a breathing signal for the subject. The subject's breathing signal comprises a temporal sequence of instantaneous volumes. One or more segments of the subject's breathing signal are then compared against one or more reference breathing signals each associated with a known pattern of breathing. As a result of the comparison, a breathing pattern for the subject is identified. The identified breathing pattern is then used to assess the subject's respiratory function. The teachings hereof find their uses in an array of diverse medical applications. Various embodiments are disclosed.