BCG-mapping of the thorax using different sensors: First experiences and signal quality

The main objective of the project is to develop a non-invasive system, based on digital 3D-accelerometers to detect changes in cardiac function, called ballistocardiography (BCG) or seismocardiography. To reach this main goal we determined three first challenges. The first one, identify suitable sensor hardware and HW-conditions plus needed specification for a fundamental use. With the second challenge, we search for the best body position on the chest and great vessels to measure a convincing heart signal by equip young healthy subject with several BCG-sensors and various reference sensors. With the third challenge we a first high significant low-noise heart-signal by using a highly sensitive LASER-vibrometer, a gold standard (GS) signal. By fulfilling the other challenges, we have found an accurate low-noise sensor (KX123) with a distinct advantage according to the signal to noise rate and the best body position for BCG-signal measurements was determined in the cardiac apex area.