A Newly Developed Infant Remote Monitoring System

Abstract

The present invention relates to an infant remote monitoring system, in particular, to one that monitors the heat from the breath of a baby to aid in the prevention of sudden infant death syndrome caused by asphyxia. This innovative device monitors the airflow frequency and temperature of the infant’s breathing using thermosensors. These airflow frequencies, linked with respiratory rates, are indicated on the monitor. The key advantage of this innovation is that it requires absolutely no contact with the baby’s skin, thereby preventing skin irritations and reducing infant discomfort normally found with traditional monitors. The system detects temperature changes induced by breathing and analyzes the breathing frequency changes, displaying the data on both a computer monitor and a light emitting diode array. Data are collected and analyzed simultaneously via personal computer, which can be linked to the central nursery room’s monitoring system. This device provides a convenient way for pediatricians or nurses to detect abnormalities in respiratory frequency in real time, so they can identify and respond to any emergency as it happens and give appropriate treatment immediately. Ten clinical cases were analyzed, and function validation of the device was performed as well.