Biosensor Chip for Noninvasive Heart Monitoring

Medical technologists are looking for new ways to unobtrusively moniter the body, similar to the hot pursuit of video game system makers to use body physiological signals to control the game. The Electric Potential Integrated Circuit (EPIC) measures millivolt changes in electric fields. This allows for detection of changes of voltage in the body’s muscles and nerves without needing a physical contact. Sensors placed on the chest, over thick clothes give electrocardiogram (ECG) readings. A possible application of this device would be to place sensors in clothes or special hospital gowns to noninvasively provide continuous monitoring of vital signs. It is used to pick up heart signals, but it also good at picking up muscle electrical activity, including that of the eyes. Research is being done to apply this technology to the disabled. It could allow quadriplegics to control computers or motor wheel chairs with eye movements. It could even be used to control movements of prosthetics similar to that of natural limbs. The technology blocks out signals other than those you want to pick up. For example, electric field changes due to respiration are hidden when you want to take an ECG reading. This technology can also be applied to video games that involve detection of body movements.

Article: New Biosensor Chip Picks Up Heart Signals Remotely