Remotely Possible

Introduction

Researchers have found a way to remotely measure heart and aspiration rates with a simple video camera. The technique has widespread use in telemedicine. The technology tomeasure the heart rate is based on the fact that blood vessels expand and contract with each heartbeat and more camera light is absorbed than reflected if there is more blood in the vessels. To calculate respiration rate, the algorithms use the minute body movement which accompanies breathing. The technology can be used to detect heart attack, to monitor animals in the laboratory or for wildlife research. 

Source

Down to Earth, November 2013