Richard Howard Weitzel

Title: **Richard Howard Weitzel: Innovator in Hydration Monitoring Technologies**

Introduction

Richard Howard Weitzel, a notable inventor based in Aloha, Oregon, has made significant contributions to the field of health monitoring through his innovative inventions. With a total of four patents to his name, Weitzel focuses on developing systems that estimate hydration levels and measure capillary refill time, enhancing medical assessments and individual health management.

Latest Patents

One of Weitzel's latest innovations is a patent for estimating hydration using capillary refill time. This invention includes a mechanism designed to apply mechanical pressure to a digit of the individual, paired with a light detector that senses light from the digit. The system is programmed to perform various functions, such as applying and releasing pressure on the digit and determining capillary refill time based on signals from the light detector. By assessing hydration levels through these parameters, this system provides a non-invasive means to monitor individual hydration status.

Another of Weitzel's recent patents involves a system for measuring capillary refill time. This system incorporates a wearable device with a force sensor and an optical sensor, allowing for the accurate assessment of capillary refill time. The device ensures that the applied force's magnitude and duration are acceptable, which is critical for ensuring the accuracy of the capillary refill time calculated from the force and optical signals.

Career Highlights

Throughout his career, Richard Howard Weitzel has worked with esteemed organizations such as Welch Allyn, Inc. and Oregon Health & Science University. These roles have not only allowed him to hone his skills in health technology but also enabled him to contribute to significant advancements in medical monitoring devices and systems.

Collaborations

Weitzel has collaborated with several talented professionals in his field, including Steven D. Baker and Matthew Lee Hansen. Their combined expertise has played a crucial role in the development and implementation of innovative health monitoring technologies, fostering advancements that impact patient care.

Conclusion

Richard Howard Weitzel exemplifies the spirit of innovation in health technology through his dedicated work and impressive portfolio of patents. His inventions not only address critical needs in hydration monitoring but also pave the way for improved methods of assessing individual health in a non-invasive manner. As health technology continues to evolve, Weitzel's contributions will undoubtedly remain influential.