Pulse Wave Sensor Array for Accurate Transit Time Calculation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for accurately analyzing pulse wave information from the human body, particularly in non-invasive wearable devices, face challenges in reducing measurement errors and efficiently calculating pulse transit time due to the need for sufficient distance between sensors, which complicates the system and increases power consumption.
Innovation Solution
A portable apparatus with multiple pulse wave sensors positioned on the rear surface, allowing detection from different points on the hand, such as the finger and palm, with a processor that selects and analyzes signals to calculate pulse transit time and derive vascular compliance, blood flow rate, and blood pressure, using a smartphone form factor for user convenience.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple pulse wave sensors are positioned on the rear surface of the apparatus to detect pulse wave signals from different points on the hand, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus divides the detection function into multiple independent pulse wave sensors positioned at different locations on the rear surface. Each sensor independently detects pulse wave signals from different body points (e.g., finger, palm), allowing the system to obtain multiple measurement perspectives without requiring a single complex sensor system.
Solution Approach 2:
The plurality of pulse wave sensors serves multiple functions: detecting pulse waves at different locations, enabling calculation of pulse transit time between points, and providing data for various health parameter analyses. This multi-functionality is achieved through a unified sensor array on the rear surface rather than requiring separate specialized sensors.
2Measurement precision
If pulse wave sensors are positioned at sufficient distance from each other to improve measurement accuracy, then measurement precision is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus pre-positions multiple pulse wave sensors at optimal distances during manufacturing, eliminating the need for real-time adjustment or complex signal processing to achieve accurate measurements. This preliminary arrangement allows the system to obtain accurate pulse transit time data without requiring excessive power for dynamic positioning or complex compensation algorithms.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using a single sensor system that requires complex processing to achieve accuracy, the patent employs multiple simplified sensor units that each perform basic pulse wave detection. The accuracy is achieved through copying the detection function across multiple locations rather than through complex processing of a single signal.
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
The apparatus effectively analyzes living body information with reduced measurement errors and increased user convenience by providing accurate calculations of pulse transit time and related health metrics without increasing system complexity or power consumption, enabling efficient health monitoring.
Implementation Method 1
a pulse wave detection unit, constructed of a light emitting and receiving device
Implementation Method 2
a pressure sensitive element
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3A~3B
Figure 4~5A
AI summary
Provided is an apparatus for analyzing living body information including: a plurality of pulse wave sensors configured to detect a pulse wave signal of an object and disposed on a rear surface of the apparatus; a processor configured to analyze living body information of the object based on the detected pulse wave signal; and a display configured to display the analyzed living body information and disposed on a front surface of the apparatus.