A pliable and batteryless real-time ECG monitoring system-in-a-patch

Abstract

A batteryless wearable ECG monitoring system-in-a-patch assembled by a biocompatible and pliable silicon-in-parylene technology is introduced. The system is capable of processing the acquired ECG signal and detecting arrhythmia by a built-in digital signal processor (DSP). An NFC communication system is used to interface the external reader. The silicon also integrates a sub-threshold ultra-low-voltage (ULV) boost converter to harvest body heat energy from a thermoelectric generator (TEG) attached to the chest to power up the ECG system. The boost converter operates with no external kick-off circuitry, and the average efficiency is up to 60%. The assembled all-in-one system achieves a very low profile (<0.9mm); it includes one CMOS die, two SMD inductors (for the boost converter), and two in-parylene gold coils (for the NFC communication system). The pliable parylene mold provides excellent adhesion and skin comfort.