Researchers at the University of Glasgow have introduced a novel piece of technology: a laser camera that can remotely monitor a person’s pulse and spot possible cardiovascular problems. This invention, which makes use of AI and quantum technology, has the potential to completely change health monitoring.
The Advanced Research Centre at the university’s Professor Daniele Faccio sees many uses for this technology. It might be used in mall kiosks to obtain rapid heart rate measurements that are linked to electronic health records. Additionally, laser heart monitors may become standard fixtures in homes, tracking a variety of health metrics. Extra gadgets could monitor variations in blood pressure or minor alterations in gait that could be early indicators of Alzheimer’s disease.
Since anomalies in heartbeat could indicate a stroke or cardiac arrest risk, remote heartbeat monitoring is extremely valuable. In contrast, training is required for traditional stethoscopes, which date back to the 19th century and might mask important faults or murmurs if not used properly.
The technology used by Faccio’s team makes use of fast cameras that can record 2,000 frames per second. It measures minute skin movements on the throat by shining a laser on it, which correlates with expansions and contractions of the arteries. With an accuracy of billionths of a meter, these measures provide previously unheard-of insights into cardiovascular health.
Even while this technology is incredibly precise, it wouldn’t be enough to precisely track a heartbeat on its own. According to Professor Faccio, artificial intelligence (AI) is required to isolate pulse vibrations in the midst of bigger chest movements brought on by breathing. Sophisticated computer systems are able to effectively eliminate background noise and concentrate only on the tiny signals of heartbeats among the din of chest movements.
The signal analysis that results allows medical experts to identify variations in heart rate, not just in comparison to population averages but also in comparison to an individual’s specific cardiac patterns. This customized method is essential for spotting minute alterations and pinpointing particular heart anomalies, providing priceless information about cardiovascular health.
In order to continue developing these gadgets, Faccio’s team is aggressively looking for venture money. They have founded a firm called LightHearted AI. He claims that the device is incredibly accurate, emphasizing its potential for biometric identification and its main function, which is to do quick and simple heartbeat measurements outside of medical facilities or doctor’s offices. This technology, which should be accessible next year, is predicted to have many advantages.
