EmRad: Ubiquitous Vital Sign Sensing Using Compact Continuous-Wave Radars

Abstract

In biomedical monitoring, non-intrusive and continuous tracking of vital signs is a crucial yet challenging objective. Although accurate, traditional methods, such as electrocardiography (ECG) and photoplethysmography (PPG), necessitate direct contact with the patient, posing limitations for long-term and unobtrusive monitoring. To address this challenge, we introduce the EmRad system, an innovative solution harnessing the capabilities of continuous-wave (CW) radar technology for the contactless detection of vital signs, including heart rate and respiratory rate. EmRad discerns itself by emphasizing miniaturization, performance, scalability, and its ability to generate large-scale datasets in various environments. This article explains the system's design, focusing on signal processing strategies and motion artifact reduction to ensure precise vital sign extraction. The EmRad system's versatility is showcased through various case studies, highlighting its potential to transform vital sign monitoring in research and clinical contexts.