Heart Rate Monitoring Seat Uses Electrode Sensing Technology

Researchers at Ford have created a seat that monitors heart rate of drivers using the electrode sensing technology. The seat was developed to help patients suffering from chronic illnesses or other medical ailments to keep a check on their condition while driving. Ford introduces this seat as a part of its in-car health and wellness program.

The seat incorporates six specialized sensors to sense the heart’s electronic signature via clothing. Information generated by the sensors can be analyzed by medical professionals or using software installed onboard. This sensor technology will be suitable for drivers with various types of heart conditions. It is specifically deigned to aid people in the mature age groups.

Ford developed the sensor-enabled seat in collaboration with the RWTH Aachen University. The six-sensor system, fixed on the seat’s backrest, can locate the heart rate even through clothing.

Ford European Research and Innovation Centre medical officer, Dr. Achim Lindner, stated that the sensors are specially designed with specialized materials to obtain an optimum signal avoiding contact with the skin.