Abstract

BACKGROUND
Power spectrum analysis method is a powerful noninvasive tool for quantifying autonomic nervous system activity. In this paper, we developed a data acquistion system for estimating the activity of the autonomic nervous system by the analysis of heart rate and respiratory rate variability using power spectrum analysis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: For the detection of QRS peak and measurement of respiratory rate from patient's ECG, we used low-pass filter and impedence method respectively. This system adopt an isolated power for patient's safety. In this system, two output signnals can be obtained: R-R interval(heart rate) and respiration rate time series. Experimental ranges are 30-240 BPM for ECG and 15-80 BPM for respiration. RESULTS: The system can acquire two signals accurately both in the experimental test using simulator and in real clinical setting. CONCLUSION: The system developed in this paper if efficient for the acquisition of heart rate and respiration signals. The system will play a role in research area for improving our understanding of the pathophysiologic involvement of the autonomic nervous system in various disease states.

• Keywords: Power spectral analysis;Autonomic nervous system;Data acquisition