The SenseBreath demonstrator is a device for monitoring the respiratory rhythm in work environments, using protective masks. The integration of disposable sensors into the masks offers a practical and effective solution for monitoring the respiratory rate of its users, providing information that could serve as an indicator of a possible pulmonary infection. The information is sent via Bluetooth, increasing user comfort due to the reduction in the number of connections and ease of data analysis. Given the nature of this device, its applicability can be extended to different disease types that require control of breathing.
The objective of this demonstrator is to monitor the respiratory rhythm, by using disposable sensors integrated into a face mask, connected to electronics which acquire and send data to a mobile device. The information is sent via Bluetooth, increasing user comfort due to the reduction in the number of connections and ease of data analysis. Therefore, the demonstrator is constituted of disposable printed sensors, made of paper and conductive ink, that can detect the user’s breathing rate. The printed capacitive sensors are connected to the electronics that can detect the breathing rate and send the information to an app. The printed sensors are integrated into a textile mask fabricated to accommodate the sensors. When the user wears the mask, it is possible to make voluntary or automated tests that monitors the user’s breathing pattern. This data can be compared over time to understand if there are any abrupt changes in the breathing rate, when the user is at rest, which can indicate the possibility of a respiratory problem, such as Covid-19.
Target Group
- Healthcare
Attractiveness of the Product
The product consists of an electronic system that communicates with an app that can be used to measure the user’s breathing rate. Since the Covid-19 disease is becoming more controlled and there are already several testing methods for workers in the developing countries, the disposable printed sensor is low cost and the electronics are reusable, which can be sold as a low-cost point of care diagnosis system, appropriate for low and middle-income countries.
Printed Electronics Components
- Printed conductive paths
- Printed sensor
- Printed electrode