Ultrasonic device for blood pressure measurement

This research will develop a method for continuous, accurate, and non-invasive central blood pressure waveform recording using a stretchable ultrasound device worn on the human skin. Continuous central blood pressure waveform monitoring provides critical and direct diagnostic clues to cardiovascular pathological conditions, and can raise patient awareness, help preventive care, and serve as the basis for personalized medicine. This research is distinct from other blood pressure waveform measurement methods because it provides accurate waveform data with a non-invasive device that does not constrict natural body movement or cause discomfort. The proposed research is one of the first studies to use a wearable system to capture medical data underneath the skin. It will be the first study to implement the ultrasound functionality in stretchable electronics. We will demonstrate, by combined innovative strategies in materials science, mechanical design, and electronics integration, a stretchable transducer array based on piezoelectric materials that detect the blood vessel diameter changes and translates the information into blood pressure waveforms. We will first design and optimize the performance of a single ultrasonic transducer for measuring the central blood pressure waveform. Then, we will develop phased array control algorithm on a stretchable platform for enabling beam focusing and improving sensitivity. In the final phase of this research, we will integrate a stretchable transducer array with the phased array control algorithm for continuous and accurate blood pressure waveform monitoring. The use of a soft, stretchable platform that matches the softness of the human skin will make a key difference in patient acceptance in high-risk populations and in wellness monitoring for the general public, with a direct impact on clinical and preventive care practices. The easy access to blood pressure waveforms will shift the public perception of the concept of blood pressure and provide unprecedented data for medical professionals, which translates into a significant reduction in associated mortality and healthcare costs