Development of piezo-electric sensor based noninvasive low cost Arterial Pulse Analyzer

Recent researches have demonstrated implications of Arterial Pulse analysis from Radial and Brachial artery on cardiovascular, renal and autonomic nervous system, as early indicator of major ailments. We have developed a low-cost Arterial Pulse Analyzer which provides run-time display of Arterial Pulse waveforms during the test as well as provides analysis of the waveforms in digitally storable format. The dynamic pressure waves at radial and brachial arteries are recorded non-invasively using piezoelectric ceramic plate sensors. The parameters analyzed are: S-P-T-C-D points, Augmentation index, pulse wave velocity, 2^nd derivative analysis for arterial ageing index, Pulse rate variability and Power Spectrum of Pulse rate variability. The setup is portable and consists of 2 straps, one each for Radial and Brachial artery, with sensors mounted on them. Signal Processing and Analysis is done using Python on a Tablet PC. It is aimed to become a potential automatic cardiovascular screening device for public health centers in developing countries as they typically lack medical expertise and access to diagnostic devices for cardiovascular diseases. Commercially available arterial pulse analyzers are not portable and have an average cost of around 4000USD. This system is portable, requires minimal power and cost 100USD, several of the technologies employed being free or open-source.