Microwave stethoscope for measuring cardio-pulmonary vital signs and lung water content
US9526438B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 25, 2014 |
| Grant date | Dec 27, 2016 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 31, 2034 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61B2562/125
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A microwave stethoscope measurement method and sensor design employ a microwave transmission sensor and a microwave reception sensor placed on a patient's chest in spaced-apart side-by-side configuration for monitoring patient vital signs, lung water content and other critical measurements. The side-by-side sensors are spaced apart a separation distance of about 1-3 cm in lateral chest orientation. The sensors may be formed with a textile fabric for wearer comfort and to improve contact with the patient's skin. The microwave sensor measurements are digitally processed using a modified short time Fourier Transform (STFT) spectrum windowed-averaged algorithm. Output data extracted from the microwave sensor measurements may be transmitted wirelessly to a mobile device such as a smartphone for remote monitoring of the patient's medical condition.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.