The device is designed to assist in the early diagnosis of respiratory diseases.
Parents constantly monitor the breathing rhythm and heart rate of their infants. Scientists are developing a device that will allow for unobtrusive monitoring of key health indicators in newborns. This is reported by Purdue.
Researchers from Purdue Polytechnic Institute (USA) have created a prototype of a 'smart pacifier' — a device for monitoring infants' breathing. The device is designed to assist in the early detection of respiratory diseases, and its use does not require wires and sensors typical of traditional equipment.
The principle of operation is based on the analysis of sound waves: they are directed into the child's airways, and a built-in microphone captures the echo. Since body tissues reflect sound differently, deviations can be identified; for example, fluid in the lungs due to pneumonia creates a characteristic echo.
An artificial intelligence model is used to interpret the data, which scientists train on information about adult breathing. The project has already been patented and received funding. Initial trials on infants are scheduled for the end of 2027. In the future, the device could be used in both neonatal units and at home.
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