Design and Implementation of an Embedded Monitor System for Body Breath Detection by Using Image Processing Methods

In this paper we use both an embedded system and a Webcam to design an embedded monitor system for body breath detection (EMSFBBD) which monitors and records the patient's breath and sends the information to a specific server through the Internet. Our design uses image processing methods to monitor and record human breath fluctuation and to calculate the breath rate. If the breath rate is too low, too fast or stops for more than 10 seconds, our design sends out an alarm signal. Our EMSFBBD consists of two parts. For the first part a Webcam is used to capture images and to transmit them to an embedded board. For the second part an image processing program using the temporal differencing algorithm to detect chest expansion and contraction to determine the breath rate is installed in the embedded board. Our design monitors the vital signs by way of the breath rate.