Patent US 5,339,818

A method and device for indirect, quantitative estimation of blood pressure attributes and similar variable physiological parameters utilizing indirect techniques. The method of practice includes (i) generating a sequence of signals which are quantitative dependent upon the variable parameter, (ii) transmitting and processing the signals within a computer system and associated neural network capable of generating a single output signal for the combined input signals, (iii) directly determining an actual value for the parameter concurrent with the indirect generation of signals of the previous steps, (iv) applying weighting factors within the neural network at interconnecting nodes to force the output signal of the neural network to match the true value of the parameter as determined invasively, (v) recording the input signals, weighting factors and true value as training data within memory of the computer, and (vi) repeating the previous steps to develop sufficient training data to enable the neural network to accurately estimate parameter value upon future receipt of on-line input signals. Procedures are also described for preclassification of signals and artifact rejection. Following training of the neural network, further direct measurement is unnecessary and the system is ready for diagnostic application and noninvasive estimation of parameter values.