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Development of an Open-source and Lightweight Sensor Recording Software System for Conducting Biomedical Research:
Michael Single1, Lena C Bruhin1, Narayan Schütz1,2
1Gerontechnology and Rehabilitation Group, ARTORG Center for Biomedical Engineering Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.
JMIR Formative Research
|February 17, 2023
Summary
This study introduces a novel, cost-effective sensor recording software for biomedical research, enabling reliable, long-term data collection on consumer hardware. The system reduces technical barriers, allowing researchers to focus on data analysis and digital health advancements.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Digital Health
- Wearable Technology
Background:
- Digital sensing devices offer objective insights into motor and non-motor symptoms in biomedical research.
- High costs and technical expertise are significant barriers to adopting sensor-enhanced solutions.
- Real-time sensor data can lower healthcare costs and improve access to health assessments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a novel sensor recording software system.
- To support integration of heterogeneous sensor technologies.
- To enable reliable, longitudinal sensor measurements on consumer-grade hardware.
Main Methods:
- Developed a server-client architecture using microservices and Docker containers.
- Utilized open-source technologies (Node.js, MongoDB) for cost-effectiveness.
- Tested the system in 3 studies (114 participants, up to 225 days) evaluating reliability, error rates, throughput, latency, and usability.
Main Results:
- The software operates reliably on consumer hardware for extended periods (>420 days).
- Achieved high throughput (2000 requests/sec) with low latency and error rates (<0.002%).
- Usability tests showed high user satisfaction (SUS: 89.5, PSSUQ: 1.62).
Conclusions:
- The software reduces barriers in sensor-enhanced biomedical research.
- It facilitates testing sensor devices and developing algorithms for digital measures (e.g., gait, actigraphy).
- Enables researchers to prioritize research questions over technology development.
