Contactless ECG Monitoring Using Radar Technology

Innovative radar technology is being developed to enable non-contact monitoring of patients' vital signs, such as heart and respiratory rates. Conducted by researchers at the Fraunhofer Institute for Reliability and Microintegration IZM, this system aims to provide a contactless alternative to traditional ECG monitoring, which involves attaching electrodes to the patient’s body. Such conventional methods pose challenges for patient groups with severe burns, skin allergies, contagious diseases like COVID-19, or certain mental health conditions where attaching sensors is difficult or uncomfortable.

The new approach utilizes high-frequency radar sensors that can capture vital signs from a distance, even through clothing, blankets, or mattresses. This technology modulates electromagnetic waves reflected by the rhythmic motion of the chest wall caused by respiration and heartbeat, allowing continuous monitoring without physical contact. The radar sensors transmit this data to medical devices, offering healthcare providers real-time insights and early detection of anomalies such as cardiac arrhythmias or stress-related issues.

The radar system has been designed to function effectively within the environment of hospitals and homes. Researchers optimized the antenna and front-end hardware to ensure high signal integrity and reliability, overcoming challenges like weak reflection signals and interference from surrounding objects. The system can detect minute movements, making it suitable for diverse applications — from monitoring infants and burn victims to patients in nursing homes, as well as potentially in vehicles for driver and passenger health assessments.

During clinical trials, the radar sensor was integrated into a plastic case and tested under real-world conditions, including installation under hospital beds. Results demonstrated its capability to accurately measure vital signs and its potential for multi-patient monitoring, paving the way for less invasive, more comfortable healthcare solutions. The ongoing development focuses on increasing the system’s range and adaptability, including flexibility for wall or ceiling installation, to facilitate remote and multi-patient monitoring in various settings.

Overall, this contactless radar-based monitoring approach promises to enhance patient care by reducing physical discomfort, minimizing infection risks, and enabling continuous health assessment in rural and underserved regions where traditional diagnostics are scarce.