In the 1970's, we were the first to develop an automatic blood pressure monitor by transferring technology used to non-invasively measure baboon blood pressure. Institute engineers developed one of the first ambulatory blood pressure monitors, a stress test blood pressure monitor, and most recently, a continuous noninvasive blood pressure monitor. Today, SwRI is developing methods for noninvasively determining the central aortic blood pressure.
Blood pressure measured at the arm or wrist is different from the blood pressure at the heart.
Using mathematical models of the cardiovascular system to correct radial blood pressure signals, these innovative methods are able to produce accurate, continuous estimates of aortic pressure. The Institute occupies 1,200 acres and provides nearly two million square feet of laboratories, test facilities, workshops, and offices for more than 2,700 employees who perform contract work for industry and government clients.