Hardware Implementation of Bio-Signal Processing Algorithms for Heart Rate Monitoring

A signal processing algorithm for processing the Photoplethysmography (PPG) signal to determine the heart rate is proposed. The algorithm adapts the autocorrelation function to derive the heart rate parameter. The implementation employs a Tiva C series microcontroller (TM4C123GH6PM) as a hardware component responsible for data processing. This hardware component is skillfully enhanced by the software tool Energia, resulting in improved data processing efficiency. The detected heart rate is transmitted to a smartphone through an HC-05 module. This aids in remotely monitoring a patient’s vital signs, which is particularly valuable during a pandemic when close physical proximity to the patient is discouraged.