Wireless Heart Rate Tracking Technology
A groundbreaking system that could revolutionise the way physiological responses are measured has been developed by a team of researchers from the University of California, Santa Cruz. The system, known as Pulse-Fi, uses WiFi signals to monitor heart rate, offering a wireless and non-invasive alternative to traditional heart rate monitors.
The Pulse-Fi system, currently focused on heart rate, might have broader applications in detecting various signals. By measuring actual heart rate and the variations in the WiFi signal, researchers were able to fit data to allow for accurate heart rate prediction. The potential use of Pulse-Fi or similar systems could expand to include the detection of other RF signals beyond WiFi, such as Bluetooth.
The primary device used in the development of Pulse-Fi was an ESP32, with a Raspberry Pi also found to be effective in performing the same task. However, it is worth noting that different WiFi chipsets probably need unique training for Pulse-Fi to work effectively.
The system works on people up to ten feet away and does not require sensors or wires. This wireless capability could potentially be utilised in the development of a wireless polygraph, which could measure multiple physiological responses without the need for physical contact.
While the Pulse-Fi system offers promising possibilities, questions about its potential for repeatability in a real-world environment remain. The exploration of RF signals like Bluetooth for similar purposes could lead to new discoveries and applications.
The potential for a wireless polygraph, if realised, could have significant implications for various fields, including law enforcement, healthcare, and research. The research was conducted by a team that included a visiting high school student researcher, demonstrating the potential for future generations to contribute to groundbreaking discoveries.
The development of Pulse-Fi represents a significant step forward in the field of wireless physiological monitoring. As researchers continue to explore its potential, the possibilities for this technology are truly exciting.
