Medical Sensor Technology
Fraunhofer Institute for Integrated Circuits
ZigBee Sensor Network
The ZigBee multi parameter sensor network transmits a patient’s various vital parameters wirelessly to a receiver. The miniaturized sensors are easy to wear for the patient and provide considerably more freedom of movement when compared with conventional measuring devices and connections.
However, the sensor system’s biggest advantage lies especially in its continuous surveillance and interpretation of data in real-time.
The following parameters can currently be gathered by the ZigBee sensor network:
- Three-channel ECG
- Pulse wave and oxygen saturation
- Breathing curve
- Movement and position
- Temperature
- Emergency push-button
All sensors are miniaturized and ergonomic in wear. This provides maximum freedom of movement for the patient and makes everyday life for nursing staff easier. In addition to that, the system can also be used for clinical aftercare as well as surveillance of high-risk patients and in nursing homes.
ZigBee’s radio technology low electric consumption allows for long operating times of the individual sensors. The wireless transmission makes continuous surveillance and signal interpretation in real-time possible.
Some of the essential features of ZigBee’s technology, which are based on IEEE-standard 802.15.4, are:
- Total data rate 250 kbit/s, or reference data rate ~128 kbit/s
- Low latency on dial-up
- Low-size log stack
- Excellent network properties
- Low electric consumption
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