A handheld pulse oximeter system comprises a pulse oximetry probe unit, an application-specific integrated circuit connected with the pulse oximetry probe unit and a custom circuit board comprising an application specific integrated circuit, a microcontroller module, a switching circuit, a power supply module and at least one communication module. The application-specific integrated circuit comprises a plurality of on-chip analog modules comprising a trans-impedance amplifier, a switched integrator, a plurality of sample and hold circuits and a plurality of capacitive feedback amplifiers, and a plurality of on-chip digital modules. The application-specific integrated circuit is designed at 180 nm CMOS technology node, so as to operate with low power supply. An efficient signal processing method is implemented on the microcontroller module to extract features such as blood oxygen saturation and heart rate from at least two photoplethysmogram signals received from the application-specific integrated circuit.
Figure (1) illustrates measured photoplethysmogram signals corresponding to red and infra-red channels of a subject in resting condition.
The patent addresses the need for a low power, efficient, and portable pulse oximeter system capable of measuring arterial blood oxygen saturation and heart rate. This system aims to enhance portability and reduce power consumption, making it suitable for various mobile and demanding environments.
Application-Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC): Designed at the 180 nm CMOS technology node, the ASIC incorporates on-chip analog and digital modules to minimize power consumption.
- Analog Modules: Include a trans-impedance amplifier, switched integrator, sample and hold circuits, and capacitive feedback amplifiers.
- Digital Modules: Feature finite state machines, multiplexers, and de-multiplexers.
- Microcontroller Module: Handles efficient signal processing, converting analog signals to digital and extracting features such as blood oxygen saturation and heart rate.
- Optical Transmitter and Photo Detector: Utilizes red and infra-red LEDs to produce optical signals and a photodetector to receive signals passing through the subject.
- Power Optimization: Incorporates a power supply module providing variable potential, optimizing power usage during non-measurement periods and through LED pulse duration control.
Communication Module: Enables data transfer to peripheral devices for further processing or display.
Uniqueness/Advantages of the technology:
Low Power Consumption:
- Operates at low voltage (1.8 V) with an average power consumption of 176 μW for analog modules and 23 μW for digital modules.
- Prolongs battery life, making it suitable for portable and wearable applications.
Efficient Signal Processing:
- Robust processing methods that are immune to small motion artifacts.
- Capable of accurate feature extraction and calculation of blood oxygen saturation and heart rate.
Compact and Lightweight Design:
- Small form factor suitable for handheld and wearable devices.
- Custom ASIC and integrated circuits contribute to the compact design.
Versatile Communication:
- Supports both wireless and wired communication for data transfer.
- Enhances user convenience and broadens the range of compatible devices.
High Testability:
- Enables testing of individual components, ensuring reliability and performance of the system.
The system prototype consists of:
- A pulse oximetry probe unit with an optical transmitter and photodetector.
- An ASIC designed to process the signals from the probe.
- A microcontroller for signal conversion and processing.
- A power supply module to manage energy consumption.
It is available for licensing.
4
- Enhanced Health Monitoring: Provides an accessible and reliable method for continuous monitoring of vital signs, improving patient outcomes and enabling early detection of health issues.
- Increased Accessibility: The portable nature allows for broader use in various settings, including remote and underserved areas.
- Improved Quality of Life: Especially beneficial for chronic disease management, sports, and extreme environments, supporting a healthier and safer lifestyle.
Medical and Healthcare:
- Continuous monitoring of patients in hospitals, ICUs, and ambulances.
- Health monitoring for patients with chronic conditions.
Sports and Fitness:
- Monitoring athletes' oxygen saturation and heart rate during training.
- Useful for fitness enthusiasts tracking their health metrics.
Geography of IP
Type of IP
201621040873
498947