Wearable medical devices — Design challenges and issues

Abstract

A Wearable Medical Device is defined as a device that is autonomous, noninvasive and that performs a specific medical function such as monitoring or support over a prolonged period of time. The term wearable implies that the device is either supported by the human body or clothing. This decade has seen a tremendous growth in the use of wearable medical devices and these fall into three categories namely, wearable monitoring devices, wearable rehabilitation devices and wearable medical aids. For example, wearable medical aid devices are designed to provide long-term assistance to patients with temporary or permanent disabilities. Patients can constantly monitor several vital signs such as ECG (Electrocardiography), respiration, skin temperature, pulse, blood pressure, body kinematics, etc. Medical aid can be immediately provided when any sign is abnormal and save a life. Health conscious people are more aware of the existence of these devices and are using them extensively. This paper reviews the devices available for use and focuses on the design aspects of these wearable devices from a biomedical engineering point of view and an attempt is made to provide some suggestions for improvised designs from utility point of view.