Non-Contact Measurements of Electrocardiogram and Cough-Associated Electromyogram from the Neck Using In-Pillow...

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Wearable Technology
• Physiological Monitoring

Background:

• Asthma and COPD are linked to nocturnal cough and heart rate variability.
• Existing methods for monitoring these vital signs can be intrusive.

Discussion:

• A proof-of-concept system utilizes cloth electrodes under a pillowcase for non-contact capacitive electrocardiogram (cECG) and capacitive electromyogram (cEMG) measurements.
• The system employs a signature voltage follower with bootstrapping and nonlinear components for high input impedance and rapid static discharge.
• Evaluated in a lab setting, the system achieved 100% R-wave detection accuracy in 6/8 subjects and clearly detected cough-associated cEMGs synchronized with reference EMGs.

Key Insights:

• The system demonstrates high accuracy in R-wave detection and reliable detection of cough-induced cEMGs.
• Non-contact measurement of physiological signals like heart rate and cough is feasible using common household materials.
• The technology shows potential for unobtrusive, long-term monitoring of respiratory and cardiac health.

Outlook:

• Further refinement is needed for practical clinical application.
• This technology offers a promising avenue for continuous, unobtrusive patient monitoring.
• Future research could explore integration into smart bedding for enhanced health surveillance.