A simple camera to replace the measuring devices of the voltage, heart rate, oxygen level, just by looking at the face. If the concept seems crazy, it was nevertheless developed by a team of researchers from Rice University in Houston (United States). The device consists of a simple video camera which, by filming the face, makes it possible to monitor the body’s vital signs.
Described in the journal Biomedical Optics Express, the system called “DistancePPG” can measure the heart rate and respiration of the patient by analyzing variations in the temperature of the patient. face. Fluctuations in the volume of blood circulating under the skin and related to physiological changes actually change the color of the face, in a way that is difficult to see with the naked eye but perceptible by the camera.
If the technique is not new, this is the first time that a device has worked for all skin colors, from the lightest to the most matte. The facial analysis is done in four steps. First, the nose, mouth, eyes and facial contour are spotted by the camera. This then divides the face into four regions, then into small areas. In the end, the areas are small enough for the camera to observe micro-variations in temperature.
For the authors, this detection system will be particularly useful for monitoring newborns, and in particular premature babies.
At the origin of this innovation, researcher Mayank Kumar indicated that he wanted his system to be used by doctors to examine patients remotely, or even for patients to be able to measure their vital signs thanks to software available on tablets. , smartphone and computer.
Read also :
Parkinson’s: a vibrating pen to help patients write
Connected objects: the Order of Physicians gives its recommendations
Unusual: a perfume that smells better when you sweat