RGB-D Sensor Application for Non-Contact Neonatal Monitoring

RGB-D cameras have shown promise in noncontact monitoring of patients in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). This work conducts essential experiments to assess the suitability and safe use of the Intel RealSense SR300 camera for non-contact neonatal monitoring. Since a pulse oximeter monitoring the patient's oxygen saturation levels (SpO2) senses infrared light, and the RGB-D sensor has an infrared projector, this work investigates a safe camera distance to ensure that the projected infrared light from the camera does not interfere with the SpO2 signal. RGB-D data reflection artifacts from the Plexiglass surface are also explored for single- and double-walled incubators. To prevent from infrared interference and RGB-D data artifacts, we recommend placing the camera at a minimum distance of 40 cm for open beds, and 25 cm for closed incubators. The camera should also be mounted directly on the Plexiglass surface in closed incubators, especially for double-wall designs. We have developed a custom latex apparatus to adhere an SR300 camera to the outer surface of an incubator to avoid reflections while securely mounting the camera without requiring any modification to the incubator itself. This work provides critical information for safe and practical RGB-D camera application in non-contact neonatal monitoring.