Self-x based closed loop wearable IoT for real-time detection and resolution of sleep apnea

Abstract

This study introduces the Sleepcare Kit and S-Pillow (SKP), a wearable body-area network concept designed to address the uncomfortable and imprecise measurements associated with previous sleep apnea diagnosis and treatment methods that depend on external servers or human experts. SKP measures respiration, acceleration, and SpO2 signals to accurately identify risky sleep apnea in real-time. In addition, it incorporates a S-Pillow that can deterministically adjust the position of the patient’s head to resolve sleep apnea symptoms. SKP operates in a self-x based closed loop to optimally manage sleep apnea risk in a patient’s home environment without external help. Experimental results shows a 1/6 reduction in control frequency and a 1/3 reduction in apnea time compared to previous studies related to pillow use.