A miniature and mobi le blood pressure monitor by Schiller AG, Baar, Switzerland, is designed to be worn continuously and unobtrusively, resulting in long-term blood pressure monitoring. In order to keep the size of the device (not yet available in the US) as small as possible, the developers went to Germany-based microdrive specialist Faulhaber in search of the optimal drive solution.

Conventional electronic measuring devices for blood pressure monitoring only provide snapshot information at the time a single reading is taken, rather than blood pressure profiles over a period of several hours or days. To ensure optimal diagnosis and correct medication doses, blood pressure monitoring over a relatively long period of time is essential since any meaningful must take into account normal everyday activities.

The monitor developed by Schiller is based on two key components: sophisticated MT-300 analysis software for setting and evaluating the measuring sequence and readings, and the BR-102- plus measuring device itself, complete with sensor and data memory.

An advanced microdrive by Faulhaber enables the Schiller BR-102 to provide continuous and reliable readings resulting in potentially life-saving data.

Schiller’s lightweight, user-friendly BR-102 device can be easily configured via PC software. It is capable of storing patient data, sanalyzing readings, and recording the results in the form of patient diaries. The actual measuring device is suitable for measuring blood pressure over a 24- or 48-hour period and offers the choice between auscultatoric or oscillometric measuring methods. This allows even patients with heart rhythm disorders or atrial fibrillation to be monitored. The device can be easily operated on site, with only two buttons for convenient navigation through the menu. Up to four measuring programs can be saved to the built-in memory, and there is a special algorithm for both adults and children. Data can be transmitted from the device via a USB interface. Despite its compact design, the 3V battery can handle up to 100 readings when fully charged.

The versatility of the device is made possible by the precise mechanical execution of the electronic commands. To accomplish this, Schiller developed a special pressure regulator for the BR-102plus. An 8mm microdrive mechanically translates the electrical commands, ensuring sensitive operation of the high-precision component.

Precious metal commutated DC motor

The pressure within the measuring cuff is the reference point for every measurement. For this reason the settings have to be as precise and reproducible as possible. A precious metal commutated DC-micromotor proved to be the ideal drive solution. Operated with controlled torque, it combines with the valve body and control tube to form a single unit, meaning the overall system is lightweight, compact and robust.

The drive also provides minimal contact resistance on the collector/brush system, allowing them to run on low voltage—an advantage for battery-supported use. The efficiency ratio of over 50% also enables the device to stay in use for extended periods; ensures perfect start-up after long periods of inactivity, and minimizes brush wear and tear for short-term usage under normal conditions. Maintenance-free bearings with special lubricants and a precisely balanced rotor ensure smooth running.

In short, the advanced microdrive enables the Schiller BR-102 to provide continuous and reliable readings resulting in potentially life-saving data sets.