Inductive sensing system and method

Abstract

A system () and method is for extracting from sensed induction signals, component signals pertaining to different physiological phenomena in the body. A resonator circuit () is oscillated at a certain frequency to generate an alternating electromagnetic field which is applied to a body to be investigated. This field induces secondary eddy currents in the body which interact with the primary magnetic field and alter at least the frequency and amplitude of the resonator circuit oscillating current. These changes in the current characteristics, in particular the frequency and amplitude, are measured and provide first and second input signals. A system () or method is provided by embodiments of the invention which is arranged to receive these input signals. A multitude of different composite or fused signals are then generated by the system, each formed from a different linear combination ratio of the two input signals. These are then assessed with a signal selection procedure to identify a best candidate signal for providing a measure or indication of a particular one or more physiological phenomena. This can be based on pre-defined selection criteria, for example relating to signal characteristics of the candidate signals.