A Wireless Smart Sensor System for Monitoring EMG Signals

The proposed Phase II outlines a plan to develop a completely wireless, ?smart? surface electromyographic (EMG) system. The project is directed at NASA?s request for innovative in-flight and ground-based technologies to improve current methods of monitoring vital organ systems that suffer deleterious effects in micro gravity. The system will provide reliable, accurate, and noninvasive monitoring of the musculoskeletal system without encumbering the user. The innovation builds on recent technological developments of our group in achieving a wireless EMG sensor prototype. The solution we propose is a significant departure from current state of the art systems. Phase I successfully demonstrated the feasibility of such an EMG monitoring system. The proposed work plan for Phase II is directed at: 1) miniaturization and enhancements of the sensors and base station, 2) incorporation of recent R&D to improve the sensor/skin interface, 4) extensions of the sensors? smart features, and 5) expansion of the multi-channel capabilities. The deliverable of an 8-channel wireless EMG system with smart capabilities will be evaluated in human subjects for signal fidelity and usability. A plan for the commercialization of the system in Phase III is outlined to include prospective users in the fields rehabilitation, ergonomics, and military in addition to NASA.