Robust detection of heart beats in multimodal data using integer multiplier digital filters and morphological algorithms

We developed a new, robust and efficient heart beat detector in multimodal data using an ECG signal, and one of the pulsatile signals such as blood pressure (BP), if present. To calculate the detection functions, simple and fast integer-multiplier sampling-frequency adjustable digital filters were developed. Using the morphological smoothing, the ECG and pulsatile-signal detection functions, and the noise detection function, are improved. Heart beats are detected using gain-independent adjustable detection thresholds. Streams of detected heart beats in the ECG and in pulsatile signal are linked together. Real time implementation is possible.