VitalsBridge

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Depending on the model, the VitalsBridge hardware can simulate:

• Oxygen saturation
• Invasive and non-invasive blood pressure
• Heart rate
• Temperature
• Respiration
  ...and more.

Diversido collaborated with Dynasthetics to develop and optimise several components of the VitalsBridge platform, including Android and iOS mobile apps and connectivity updates for Bluetooth communication.

How Does VitalsBridge Work?

VitalsBridge technology works with both standardised patients and training manikins, supporting low-, mid-, and high-fidelity simulation scenarios:

• Low-fidelity manikins: Basic models like CPR torsos or IV arms
  
• Mid-fidelity manikins: Full-body, but with limited realism or interactivity
  
• High-fidelity manikins: Highly responsive, lifelike systems simulating patient reactions
  

The VitalsBridge software links the simulator hardware with a real clinical monitor and the chosen patient type. This lets trainees see the effects of simulated conditions (or their own interventions) on an actual monitor — just as in a real hospital.

Unlike other solutions that require dedicated, expensive monitors, VitalsBridge works with existing hospital equipment, making it more cost-effective and scalable.

How to Use the App

1. Download and open the mobile app.
   
2. The system automatically searches for compatible VitalsBridge hardware.
   
3. Once connected, trainers can set the appropriate vital signs for a scenario.
   
4. Configuration options allow syncing and calibration with the processor board.
   
5. The manikin or standardised patient is then connected to the hardware to begin training.
   

Technologies & Engineering Challenges

We initially joined the project to build the Android app. Over time, our team supported the VitalsBridge system through a variety of technical improvements:

• Migration from Windows IoT Core to Linux OS: After Microsoft ended support for IoT Core, we helped transition to Linux, solving multiple connectivity issues — especially those related to 5G availability.
  
• Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE): We replaced the old Bluetooth Classic protocol (Rfcomm), which required manual pairing, with BLE. This significantly improved connection speed, reliability, and usability on iOS.
  
• Middleware integration using D-Bus: To handle communication between hardware components, we implemented D-Bus, allowing multiple message streams on a single device.

The apps were built with Xamarin.Forms, a .NET-based cross-platform framework, ensuring smooth deployment on both Android and iOS devices.

VitalsBridge software now connects to the processing hardware via:

• Ethernet
• Wi-Fi
• Serial data cable
• Bluetooth (BLE)

Monitor Compatibility

VitalsBridge is compatible with most patient monitors released in the past 20 years, including models from:

• Philips
• Spacelabs
• Propaq
• Zoll
• Welch Allyn
  

This broad compatibility makes the system easy to adopt in existing clinical training environments.

Results of Our Work

• The Android app is available on Google Play
• iOS version is under review for release on the Apple App Store
• The app is free to download, with no ads or in-app purchases — hardware is purchased separately
• Latest versions fully support the newest VitalsBridge FM hardware

Why It Matters

Simulation-based training is one of the most effective methods for developing clinical skills. But access to realistic tools can be limited by cost or complexity.

VitalsBridge offers a mistake-tolerant, immersive learning environment, helping medical students and professionals turn theory into practice.

Organisations already using it include:

• Medical schools and universities
  
• Hospitals with residency or internship programs
  
• First-aid and CPR training providers

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Watch the demo to see how the VitalsBridge  integrates standardised patient scenarios with real patient monitors for better training.

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Looking to build your own digital health solution? Let’s talk.