Importance

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Abstract

An improved apparatus and method for non-invasive monitoring of blood oxygen saturation and pulse is made by modifying a conventional prior art pulse oximeter probe for use inside an ear canal or other body cavity. This placement is particularly useful for unobtrusively monitoring the blood oxygen saturation and pulse of pilots flying high performance military aircraft. When monitored blood oxygen saturation or pulse levels fall to a level indicating imminent unconsciousness, control of the aircraft can be removed from the pilot and the aircraft unloaded to reduce G-loading. The apparatus is made by removing the light emitting diode (LED) and light sensor from a commercially available pulse oximeter probe, or oxisensor, and cementing them on opposite sides of a conventional ear plug. The light emitted from the LED travels a reflective path through the vascular tissue surrounding the ear canal to be received by the light sensor on the other side of the canal.

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First Claim