# Biometric Vibration Signal Detection Devices for Swallowing Activity Monitoring
###### Abstract  
Swallowing is a complex neuromuscular activity regulated by the autonomic central nervous system, and impairment can lead to dysphagia, which is difficulty in swallowing. This research presents a novel approach that utilizes wireless, wearable technology for the continuous mechanoacoustic tracking of respiratory activities and swallowing. To address the challenge of accurately tracking swallowing amidst potential confounding activities or significant body movements, we employ two accelerometers. These accelerometers help distinguish between genuine swallowing events and other activities. By monitoring movements and vibrations through the skin surface, the developed device enables non-intrusive monitoring of swallowing dynamics and respiratory patterns. Our focus is on the development of both the wireless skin-interfaced device and an advanced algorithm capable of detecting swallowing dynamics in conjunction with respiratory phases. The device and algorithm demonstrate robustness in detecting respiratory patterns and swallowing instances, even in scenarios where users exhibit periodic movements due to disease or daily activities. Furthermore, peak detection using an adaptive threshold automatically adjusts to an individual's signal strength, facilitating the detection of swallowing signals without the need for individual adjustments. This innovation has significant potential for enhancing patient training and rehabilitation programs aimed at addressing dysphagia and related respiratory issues. health monitoring system; dysphagia; swallowing; adaptive threshold; wireless wearable sensor +
Footnote †: journal: Medical  
swallowing, seamlessly transitions from a state of patency during breathing to facilitate the smooth passage of air, to a state of tight compression during swallowing, thereby generating substantial positive pressures requisite for the efficient clearance of the bolus through the upper aerodigestive tract. The intricate interplay between these physiological processes underscores the complexity of the human body's mechanisms, necessitating comprehensive approaches to address the multifaceted challenges posed by dysphagia and to optimize swallowing function and quality of life for affected individuals [12]. The coordination between breathing and swallowing is vital for the safe passage of food and liquids through the throat. In healthy adults, swallowing typically aligns with a pause in breathing, ensuring airway protection and efficient swallowing. This synchronized coordination involves various physiological mechanisms that aid in bolus transit and clearance [13, 14]. However, individuals with dysphagia experience disruptions in this coordination, leading to swallowing difficulties and reduced quality of life. Traditional dysphagia treatments focus on strengthening throat muscles, but often yield incomplete results [15]. Recent innovations explore training individuals to swallow during specific phases of breathing, showing promising outcomes in some cases [16]. However, challenges remain in accurately detecting swallowing events, ensuring effective intervention, and maintaining long-term improvements, highlighting the complexity of swallowing rehabilitation. Against the backdrop of burgeoning research efforts aimed at enhancing dysphagia management, there arises a growing imperative for the development of user-centric monitoring solutions, particularly those harnessing the capabilities of wireless technologies. The advent of such technologies holds immense promise in liberating dysphagia patients from the constraints of traditional monitoring setups, affording them the freedom to engage in daily activities without tethering them to specific locations. The biometric vibration signal collected through devices attached to the body can be used to track breathing and swallowing. These devices can be utilized by clinical therapists to aid in the swallowing training of patients with dysphagia [17].