Since the outbreak of the pandemic, facemasks have become a part of daily life and one of the most effective protective measures.
However, this protection is passive, and we cannot know if we wear our facemasks right.Because of that, the researchers in Northwestern University has developed a sensor called "FaceBit" to monitor physiological signals of the wearers in real-time.
Pic courtesy: Northwestern University
This compact sensor can be attached to any mask with a tiny magnet, such as N95.
FaceBit uses an energy-saving operating system to collect various physiological signals of the wearer.
The heart rate is monitored by the subtle head movements generated by blood pumping.
The respiratory rate is monitored by temperature changes.
The fitting and wearing time of the mask is monitored by pressure signals.
All these signals will be wirelessly transmitted to the app "Face Bit Companion".
The app will immediately alert the users of any health issues occur such as an elevated heart rate.
It will also let the users know when to take a break, take a walk or take a deep breath.
It can also predict the fatigue and emotional states of the users.
It will also remind the wearers if the facemasks are no longer sealed.
Pic courtesy: facebit.health
The sensor may not be widely used by individuals, but it will provide sustainable, convenient, and comfortable health monitoring function for long-shift COVID-19 frontline workers.
Reference: https://www.ifanr.com/1467137