Development of a new wearable multi-channel sensing unit

Abstract

A wearable multi-channel sensing unit was successfully developed as pre-evaluation or research tool for a healthcare system. Three-axis acceleration sensors were installed in the unit. Eight analogue signals for bio or environmental information and two serial signals through RS232C I/O ports for GPS could be recorded to a compact flash interface compatible removable memory (for example, IBM Microdrive/spl trade/, 1GB HDD). Size and weight of the unit were 207 cm/sup 3/ (W 9 cm, L 7.2 cm, H 3.2 cm) and 260 grams. Continuous ECG waveforms could be clearly recorded for more than 150 minutes using a lithium-ion battery (7.2 V, 2700 mAh).