Nicera, a Japanese company, has recently developed an air pressure sensor that can monitor the heartbeat of a living person. For example, the sensor can be incorporated into a cushion. When a person sits on the cushion, which is directly above the sensor, the constant flow of blood through the heartbeat and blood vessels causes the air to be compressed and depressurized via a flexible tube on the cushion. The ceramic plate inside the sensor detects these air changes, indicating the presence or absence of a person and the presence of vital signs. It can detect the heartbeat very accurately in real time.

**Applications: Cushions, Cribs, Elderly Care Beds

It can also be used for door opening/closing detection. Placed on the inside of an interior door, the sensor detects significant pressure changes when the door is pushed inwards or pulled outwards, indicating the door's status in real time.

**Applications: Security and Safety Systems