Multi-Sensor Biometric Detection for Low-SNR Power Management

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing health monitoring technologies using single sensors face inaccuracies due to low signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and power consumption issues, leading to unreliable biometric parameter estimation.

Innovation Solution

Strategically using multiple biosensors, where a less power-consuming sensor is primarily used for estimation, switching to a more accurate sensor when SNR falls below a threshold, and comparing estimates to enhance accuracy and confidence.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Use of energy by moving object

If a single sensor is used for biometric parameter estimation, then power consumption is reduced, but measurement precision and reliability deteriorate due to low signal-to-noise ratio

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepower consumptionVSAvoidbiometric parameter estimation accuracy

Core Design Contradiction:

Use of energy by moving objectVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically switches between single-sensor and multi-sensor modes based on real-time SNR conditions. When SNR is sufficient, only the low-power sensor operates. When SNR falls below the threshold, the system activates the second sensor to maintain measurement precision, thus optimizing the balance between power consumption and measurement accuracy

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes the operational state of sensors based on SNR parameter thresholds. By monitoring SNR and comparing it against predefined thresholds, the system adjusts sensor activation states to maintain biometric estimation accuracy while minimizing power consumption

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Measurement precision

If multiple sensors are continuously activated, then measurement precision and reliability improve, but power consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvebiometric parameter estimation accuracyVSAvoidpower consumption

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The system employs dynamic sensor activation where the second sensor is only activated when SNR conditions warrant it. This dynamic approach ensures high measurement precision when needed while avoiding unnecessary power consumption during periods when the first sensor suffices

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system periodically monitors SNR and adjusts sensor activation accordingly. This periodic assessment allows the system to maintain measurement precision during critical periods while conserving power during periods when signal quality is adequate with single-sensor operation

Inventive Principle:

Principle #19Periodic action

3Use of energy by moving object

If a low-power sensor is used, then power consumption is reduced, but reliability of biometric detection deteriorates when signal quality is poor

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepower consumptionVSAvoidbiometric detection reliability

Core Design Contradiction:

Use of energy by moving objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system implements feedback through continuous SNR monitoring. When the monitored SNR falls below the threshold, the system responds by activating the second sensor, thereby maintaining detection reliability. This feedback mechanism ensures that power consumption is minimized without compromising reliability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system prepares for potential reliability issues by having a second sensor available as a backup. When SNR degradation is detected, the pre-configured second sensor can be activated to cushion against reliability deterioration, ensuring continuous reliable operation

Inventive Principle:

Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

4Use of energy by moving object

If the second sensor is kept in low-power state, then power consumption is reduced, but response time to improve measurement accuracy increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepower consumptionVSAvoidresponse time for accuracy improvement

Core Design Contradiction:

Use of energy by moving objectVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary setup by pre-configuring the second sensor and establishing SNR thresholds in advance. When SNR conditions deteriorate, the pre-prepared second sensor can be activated immediately, minimizing the time loss for accuracy improvement while maintaining power efficiency during normal operation

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

This approach increases the reliability and accuracy of biometric parameter estimation while efficiently managing power consumption, enabling differentiation between sleep apnea types and guiding appropriate interventions.

Implementation Method 1

the second sensor comprises a photoplethysmogram (PPG) sensor

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectPhotoplethysmogram: Photoelectric Effect

Data Source

PatentUS12465283B2Biometric detection using multiple sensors

Publication Date: 2025.11.11 BOSE CORP

AI summary

Aspects of the present disclosure provide methods and apparatuses for estimating a biometric parameter using multiple sensors. As described herein, multiple sensors are strategically used to output with increased confidence a biometric parameter. Multiple sensors are strategically used to save power while determining an accurate biometric estimation. Additionally, multiple sensors are used to detect and categorize a sleep apnea event.