A New Reflectance Pulse Oximeter Housing to Reduce Contact Pressure Effects

Excessive contact pressure between a reflectance pulse oximeter probe and the skin may interfere with local blood flow, consequently leading to diminished or loss of the photoplethysmographic (PPG) signal. This can directly affect the ability to accurately measure arterial oxygen saturation (SpO
2
) and heart rate (HR) by a wearable pulse oximeter. In this study, we describe two new pulse oximeter housings designed to reduce the effects of contact pressure exerted on a reflectance pulse oximeter sensor. Preliminary results demonstrate that these new housings can improve SpO
2
and HR measurement from a forehead pulse oximeter sensor in the presence of large contact pressures.