Non-contact Neck Respiratory and Pulse Signal Detection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for detecting respiratory and pulse signals, especially in neck imaging, are inadequate due to reliance on contact devices that cause discomfort and delayed signal measurement from chest or abdomen areas, leading to inaccuracies in imaging gating and reconstruction.

Innovation Solution

A non-contact optic-based method that acquires 3D morphological information of the neck to obtain respiratory and electrocardiogram signals using structured light projection and high-frame-rate imaging, reducing delays and improving accuracy.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If respiratory belt is placed around thorax or abdomen to obtain respiratory signals, then respiratory signals can be detected, but detection accuracy is insufficient for quiet breathing and requires additional belt placement

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverespiratory signal detection accuracyVSAvoidadditional belt placement
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines respiratory signal detection and pulse signal detection into a single integrated system using one camera to capture both chest/abdomen movement (for respiratory signals) and finger pulse variations (for pulse signals) simultaneously, eliminating the need for separate respiratory belts and finger-pulsometers

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The single camera system performs multiple functions: it detects respiratory signals through chest/abdomen surface movement, detects pulse signals through finger pulse variations, and provides synchronized timing for both signals, replacing multiple specialized devices with one multi-functional apparatus

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Measurement precision

If pulse signal is detected through electrocardiogram or finger pulses, then pulse signals can be obtained, but operation is relatively complex and participants feel discomfort

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepulse signal detectionVSAvoidoperational complexity and comfort
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces contact-based mechanical detection methods (electrocardiogram electrodes and finger-pulsometer contact devices) with a non-contact optical detection system using camera-based imaging to capture pulse signals through subtle finger movement, eliminating the need for skin contact and complex electrode placement

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The system uses the participant's own finger as the detection target without requiring external contact devices, allowing natural placement of the finger in the camera field of view and eliminating discomfort from wearing contact devices for extended periods

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Measurement precision

If respiratory signal is measured from chest or abdomen area and pulse signal from finger-pulsometer, then both signals can be detected, but there is certain delay between the signals

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesignal detection capabilityVSAvoidsignal detection delay
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent captures both respiratory and pulse signals simultaneously through a single camera system, establishing synchronized timing from the outset rather than sequentially measuring signals from different locations, thereby eliminating detection delays between signal acquisition

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system merges the detection of respiratory signals and pulse signals into a single synchronized measurement process using one camera, ensuring that both signals are captured at the same moment in time without the temporal delay that occurs when using separate detection devices and methods

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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

Enables accurate, real-time, non-contact measurement of respiratory and pulse signals, enhancing imaging quality and reducing operational discomfort, while synchronizing imaging processes effectively.

Implementation Method 1

The projector is configured to project structured light towards a neck of a human body, in which light emitted by the projector is visible light or invisible infrared light

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectStructured light projection: Light

Implementation Method 2

The camera is configured to photograph an optical pattern of the neck of the human body

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectOptical reflection and imaging: Reflection

Data Source

PatentUS11490821B2Non-contact neck-based respiratory and pulse signal detection method, apparatus, and imaging device
Publication Date: 2022.11.08 TSINGHUA UNIVERSITY
  • US11490821B2 patent drawing
  • US11490821B2 patent drawing
  • US11490821B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present disclosure provides a non-contact neck-based respiratory and pulse signal detection method and apparatus, and an imaging device. The method includes: acquiring 3D morphological information of a neck of a human body in real-time; and acquiring a respiratory signal and an electrocardiogram signal of the human body on the basis of the 3D morphological information of the neck.