In this paper, we present an optical fiber based
approach to accurately evaluate the respiratory capacity of
individuals through spirometry. The proposed system converts
the air flow rate into strain variations in an optical fiber, which
will modulate the spectral response of a Fabry-Perot
interferometer (FPI) micro-cavity, created in the fiber core.
Simulation studies were performed to verify the proposed
theoretical approach. Additionally, preliminary results
concerning the study of the system’s reliability are also
presented, which confirm the suitability of using FPI sensors for
the evaluation of spirometry parameters. The simulation and
implementation results showcase the accuracy of the
measurements performed by the proposed solution, confirming
its appropriateness to be used as a smart low-cost eHealth
spirometer. This is the first time such FPI approach is used with
this purpose.