The event brought together scientists and students from Lithuania and abroad to explore the latest advancements in biomedical engineering and their practical applications.
The event was opened by Prof. Dr. Habil. Piotr Augustyniak from AGH University of Science and Technology (Krakow, Poland), who presented an innovative study titled “Touchless Heart Rate Monitoring from a Drone using Videoplethysmography.” He discussed the possibilities of remotely measuring human heart rate using unmanned aerial vehicles (drones) and videoplethysmography methods, which can be applied in extreme situations or rescue operations. In his lecture, the professor demonstrated how heart rate can be remotely measured from video footage captured during drone flights using videoplethysmography, in combination with skin detection, human posture recognition, and video stabilization methods.
In the study, a drone equipped with a video camera recorded ten video segments featuring volunteers walking and running in natural lighting conditions. Advanced techniques were applied to detect, track, and stabilize the human image during motion. Several videoplethysmography methods were used to calculate heart rate, and the findings confirmed the method’s effectiveness for contactless pulse monitoring via drone. This approach helps bridge the gap between wearable heart rate devices and emergency monitoring systems, offering practical value in training, mountain or water rescues, and disaster or combat zones.
The second presentation “Biomedical Engineering at Taltech for Better Human Health and Well-being” was delivered by Dr. Kristjan Pilt from Tallinn University of Technology (TalTech, Estonia). He shared his experience in using biomedical engineering to enhance human health and well-being, emphasizing the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in developing advanced healthcare technologies. Dr. Pilt highlighted the research focus of TalTech’s Department of Health Technologies, particularly in the areas of psychological stress assessment and arterial stiffness. He also discussed methodologies for evaluating arterial stiffness using photoplethysmography and presented bio-optical methods that have been utilized to support better human health and well-being.
Following a short coffee break, Prof. Dr. Julius Griškevičius from Vilnius Gediminas Technical University (Vilnius Tech, Department of Biomechanical Engineering) gave a talk titled “Transforming Biomechanical Research into Everyday Solutions: Highlights from Vilnius Tech.” He shared insights into how biomechanical engineering enables cutting-edge research to be turned into practical solutions that directly improve quality of life. Prof. Griškevičius highlighted the department’s experience in developing innovative healthcare, rehabilitation, and assistive technologies, and how these are applied in real-life situations to address everyday challenges.
The symposium provided a dynamic platform for participants to discuss emerging trends in biomedical engineering, share research findings, and establish new collaborative connections. The event underscored the vital role of translating scientific advancements into real-world applications that improve people’s lives.
