Monitoring Behaviors With Technology

¶ … Human-Centered monitoring: The state of current technology Chronic diseases cause 7 out of 10 diseases in the U.S. These include common illnesses such as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. 6 million crashes occur on U.S. highways. Driver fatigue alone leads to 17% of all vehicular deaths in the U.S. These are sobering statistics and it is only natural to want to know how such incidents can be prevented: human-centered monitoring is one possible answer.

Regarding health status, body area networks can use implants or other means of monitoring to determine a patient's physiological state (such as his or her temperature, glucose level, etcetera). Wearable electronic systems can remain constantly attached to the skin. This can create a feedback loop between the patient or user, the technology, and other individuals that have a critical stake in monitoring the data such as healthcare providers and traffic safety personnel. Daily health monitoring is convenient and can enable persons with chronic illnesses to lead more 'normal' lives.

They are relatively easy to strap on the individual and can provide critical information to patients, caregivers, and hospital professionals about the patient's state of well-being. What is critical about chronic diseases is just that: they are chronic and will not go away. They must be constantly monitored. Skin-electrode interface modeling is non-obtrusive yet can mean the difference between life and death for some patients.

However, it should be noted that these monitoring devices are not foolproof -- a great deal can interfere with its ability to transmit accurate data, including electromagnetic interference. Thermal 'noise;' 'noise' from the body; chemical reactions; friction; and other forms of interference can act as barriers. The technology remains a work in progress. Despite the benefits these devices can provide, the data must be reviewed with caution and have some 'backup' in its current form, given the potentially seismic impact its use could have on someone's health.

Particularly with analog front end design there can be high levels of interference. Diode connections, and rail-to-input schemes can reduce this to some extent. Sensor monitoring (signal quality vs. distance) is also a critical consideration when evaluating the accuracy of the device. While problems with accuracy exist, non-contact detection is still possible; the signal can be detected through a significant gap in space and also through clothing. Wireless system architecture is also now possible to use with this form of technology, further enhancing the utility and ubiquity of the technology.

Despite improvements in the technology, of course, there is still a very high threat of stress and risk impeding the free flow of the data. A lack of perfection and error is always dismaying but particularly with technology used to address health-related issues. However, human interface monitoring is here to stay: given cutbacks in healthcare,.