An Innovative Non-Contact ECG and Biopotential Sensor

Abstract

This paper describes the development of a non-contact sensing platform to monitor the ECG and biopotential signals. The non-contact sensing will be based on capacitive coupling the bioelectricity produced by cardiovascular activities around the heart. High sensitivity sensor and electronics are designed to amplify the signals. Our preliminary study has pointed to the promise of this sensing concept. A sensor prototype was able to clearly detect the ECG signals from 10 cm away from the body. Research tasks continue improving the sensor design to detect the polarization in the ECG signals. The final goal is a non-contact sensing platform for ECG signals and for real time diagnostics of the mental distress and cardiovascular diseases.