Journals Proceedings

Abstract

This paper introduces an optics based sensory system to improve the performance of the conventional and modern (developed so far) spirometry in terms of cost, functionality, reliability for the diagnosis of two common respiratory diseases like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and chronic restrictive pulmonary disease (CRPD). In our present work, we have incorporated a cordless optics based sensing system which carries many unique features which include i) no external hardware interfacing circuit (for communication of signal to the computing device) thus reducing hardware complexity ii) A noise free computer compatible output. In order to analyze the output (coming out from the sensing system), we have derived an algorithm for faithful reproduction of the breathing pattern graphically. At the same time, the significant spirometric values are displayed numerically. This makes a more reliable approach by storing the information for future analysis to have a meaningful solution (by comparing with that of normal subjects) for the above mentioned respiratory disorders. The test results obtained from our experimental studies by using the proposed model are in good agreements with the actual clinical conditions of different subjects. In order to evaluate the performance of the device more precisely, the experimental results are further verified with the standard ‘Pulmonary Function- Reference Normal Predicted Values Calculator’ The investigation revealed a very good correlation between the two.