GB2517179A - Monitoring device and system - Google Patents
Monitoring device and system Download PDFInfo
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- GB2517179A GB2517179A GB1314526.3A GB201314526A GB2517179A GB 2517179 A GB2517179 A GB 2517179A GB 201314526 A GB201314526 A GB 201314526A GB 2517179 A GB2517179 A GB 2517179A
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- 238000012806 monitoring device Methods 0.000 title claims abstract description 28
- 238000004891 communication Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 37
- 210000000707 wrist Anatomy 0.000 claims abstract description 34
- QVGXLLKOCUKJST-UHFFFAOYSA-N atomic oxygen Chemical compound [O] QVGXLLKOCUKJST-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims abstract description 14
- 229910052760 oxygen Inorganic materials 0.000 claims abstract description 14
- 239000001301 oxygen Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 14
- 238000013186 photoplethysmography Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 7
- 238000013480 data collection Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 6
- 230000005540 biological transmission Effects 0.000 claims abstract description 4
- 238000012545 processing Methods 0.000 claims description 66
- 238000012544 monitoring process Methods 0.000 claims description 26
- 230000005856 abnormality Effects 0.000 claims description 10
- 238000004458 analytical method Methods 0.000 claims description 4
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- 210000002321 radial artery Anatomy 0.000 claims description 2
- SGPGESCZOCHFCL-UHFFFAOYSA-N Tilisolol hydrochloride Chemical compound [Cl-].C1=CC=C2C(=O)N(C)C=C(OCC(O)C[NH2+]C(C)(C)C)C2=C1 SGPGESCZOCHFCL-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims 3
- 208000006545 Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Diseases 0.000 abstract description 5
- 230000003287 optical effect Effects 0.000 abstract description 2
- 230000006870 function Effects 0.000 description 11
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 description 6
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- 238000005259 measurement Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000000414 obstructive effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- 230000002685 pulmonary effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- 230000000276 sedentary effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- 239000000758 substrate Substances 0.000 description 2
- 206010010071 Coma Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 206010014561 Emphysema Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 208000019693 Lung disease Diseases 0.000 description 1
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- 230000009977 dual effect Effects 0.000 description 1
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- 230000002452 interceptive effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 description 1
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Classifications
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
- A61B5/00—Measuring for diagnostic purposes; Identification of persons
- A61B5/0002—Remote monitoring of patients using telemetry, e.g. transmission of vital signals via a communication network
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
- A61B5/00—Measuring for diagnostic purposes; Identification of persons
- A61B5/02—Detecting, measuring or recording pulse, heart rate, blood pressure or blood flow; Combined pulse/heart-rate/blood pressure determination; Evaluating a cardiovascular condition not otherwise provided for, e.g. using combinations of techniques provided for in this group with electrocardiography or electroauscultation; Heart catheters for measuring blood pressure
- A61B5/024—Detecting, measuring or recording pulse rate or heart rate
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
- A61B5/00—Measuring for diagnostic purposes; Identification of persons
- A61B5/02—Detecting, measuring or recording pulse, heart rate, blood pressure or blood flow; Combined pulse/heart-rate/blood pressure determination; Evaluating a cardiovascular condition not otherwise provided for, e.g. using combinations of techniques provided for in this group with electrocardiography or electroauscultation; Heart catheters for measuring blood pressure
- A61B5/024—Detecting, measuring or recording pulse rate or heart rate
- A61B5/02416—Detecting, measuring or recording pulse rate or heart rate using photoplethysmograph signals, e.g. generated by infrared radiation
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
- A61B5/00—Measuring for diagnostic purposes; Identification of persons
- A61B5/68—Arrangements of detecting, measuring or recording means, e.g. sensors, in relation to patient
- A61B5/6801—Arrangements of detecting, measuring or recording means, e.g. sensors, in relation to patient specially adapted to be attached to or worn on the body surface
- A61B5/6802—Sensor mounted on worn items
- A61B5/681—Wristwatch-type devices
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- Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Biomedical Technology (AREA)
- Animal Behavior & Ethology (AREA)
- Biophysics (AREA)
- Pathology (AREA)
- Veterinary Medicine (AREA)
- Cardiology (AREA)
- Heart & Thoracic Surgery (AREA)
- Medical Informatics (AREA)
- Molecular Biology (AREA)
- Surgery (AREA)
- Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- Public Health (AREA)
- Physiology (AREA)
- Computer Networks & Wireless Communication (AREA)
- Measuring And Recording Apparatus For Diagnosis (AREA)
Abstract
A wrist worn monitoring device for sufferers of chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases and coronary heart conditions is described. The device has a first sensor 17 adapted to monitor a heart rate associated with a user of the system; a second sensor 18 adapted to monitor a pulse oximeter oxygen saturation associated with a user of the system; a wearable wrist strap 16a, 16b carrying the first and second sensors and configured so as to locate the first and second sensors on a ventral surface of the wrist of a user of the device; a data collection module adapted to collect data from each of the first and second sensors; and a communication means adapted for wireless data transmission of the collected data to a remote processor. Examples of the heart rate sensor may include a piezoelectric sensor, audio sensor, or optical/light sensor for example an infra red sensor. The oxygen sensor may also be an infra red sensor for example a reflective photoplethysmography or PPG sensor. The device may also include a position sensor such as a GPS, or a movement sensor such as an accelerometer 22.
Description
MONITORING DEVICE AND SYSTEM
Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a monitoring device and system. In particular) the present invention relates to a mobile interactive wearable and untethered monitoring device and system that enables monitoring of the condition of a wearer and in the preferred case communication between a wearer and a third party selected on the basis of a determination of the condition of the wearer. The present invention in particular relates to a monitoring device and system that is able to monitor the condition of a user continuously in realtime. The present invention in particular relates o a monitoring device and system to monitor ihe condition of sufferers of chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases and coronary heat conditions.
Background of the Inventioll
It is desirable o monkor the condidon of sufferers of chronic obstrucUve pulmonary diseases (COPD such as emphysema] and coronary heart condkions in particular to allow advice and aid to be provided should an emergency arise.
However) conventional monitoring of those with COPD and coronary heart conditions typicafly involves attendance at a medica' facility where a patient is attached to a monitoring apparatus with various biometric sensors, and data is typically collected under clinical supervision. This may be seen as intrusive and hence unwelcome or it may simply be too demanding on resources to provide adequate monitoring for all. Moreover, it provides only for occasional monitoring of a patient's condition when the patient attends the medical facility.
It is an object of the present invention to provide a system that obviates and mitigates one or more of the disadvantages and limitations of the prior art
Summary of the Invention
According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a monitoring device comprising: a first sensor adapted to monitor a heart rate associated with a user of the system; a second sensor adapted to monitor a pulse oximeter oxygen saturation associated with a user of the system; a wearable wrist strap carrying the first and second sensors and configured so as to locate the first and second sensors on a ventral surface of the wrist of a user of the device; a data collection module adapted to collect data from each of the first and second sensors; a communication means adapted for wireless data transmission of the collected data so as to communicate the same in use to a receiver on a suitable remote data processing means.
The monitoring device of the invention thus carries sensors to monitor each of two critical parameters for the assessment of the condition of sufferers of chronic obstructive pulmonary and coronary heart conditions. In use a patient wears on the wrist a device containing sensors which measure pulse and oxygen levels, a data collection system and a wireless transmitter such as a wireless antenna to transmit the collected data to a suitable external remote data processing means for processing. The monitoring device of the invention is capable of collecting in real time) without requiring a patient to be tethered to a fixed system or to attend a medical facility) data from the wrist worn external biological sensors that are able to detect pulse and blood oxygen levels. These data may then be transmitted wirelessly via the communication means to a remote data processing means for further processing and analysis.
Using external sensors worn in use on patient's wrist in combination with a wireless transmitter such as a wireless antenna to transmit the collected data to a suitable external processing system for further processing and analysis allows for continuous real time monitoring of the patient's condition in a simple and untethered but effective manner.
The key to the invention is the realisation that monitoring of these two key parameters alone) and in particular of any sudden and/ or excessive deviation from pre-determined acceptable levels, can provide a simplified but still effective way of continuously monitoring chronic obstructive pulmonary and coronary heart conditions, for example with a view to ascertaining whether more comprehensive clinical intervention is required. Conveniently, in a possible case therefore, the device of the invention has a heart rate sensor and an oxygen saturation sensor and no other biological sensor. Alternatively one or more additional biological sensors may be provided on the device without departing from the principles of continuous real time monitoring of the patient's condition in untethered manner. Additionally or alternatively one or more further sensors may be provided to monitor external factors that might be relevant to assessment of the patient's condition. In particular a movement sensor such as an accelerometer maybe provided, since whether the patient is sedentary or moving may be a relevant factor in relating pulse rate to condition.
The invention comprises a wrist strap wearable by a user of the device (the patient] in use and in association with the first and second sensors in such configuration as to locate the first and second sensors on a ventral surface of the wrist of a user of the device when the device is so worn. For example the wrist strap carrying the first and second sensors is configured so as to locate the first and second sensors generally over the radial artery.
The first and second sensors) and optionally additionally the data collection module and! or the communication means) may be compactly located together in a housing to be worn on the wrist is use.
In a preferred case, the housing may comprise a substrate carrying the sensors and comprising flexiNe materia' to allow it to conform to the curve of a user's wrist in use.
The first, heart rate sensor may comprise a piezoelectric sensor, and audio sensor, or a light sensor which is for example a reflected light sensor. In a preferred case the first, heart rate sensor may comprise a red light and! or infra-red sensor.
The second, oxygen sensor may comprise a red light and! or infra-red sensor.
For example the sensor comprises a reflective photoplethysmography (PPG) sensor.
In a possible embodiment, the first and second sensors may be of equivalent or identical type, for example being comprises by equivalent or identical red light and! or infra-red sensors such as PPG sensors. The first and second sensor functions may in such case be embodied in a single sensor device. Akernatively p'ural sensors of equivalent or identical type may be provided. In such a case different sensors may have specific functionality for the first or second sensor function or may be adapted to perform either function selectively.
In a more comp'ete aspect the invention comprises a monitoring system is provided comprising the monitoring device of any preceding claim in combination with and adapted for data communication with a processing means adapted to receive collected data from the device and provide a determination of a perceived condition of the user.
S
A suitable processing means in a preferred case comprises an additional programmable device including a central processor.
It is intended in accordance with the invention that a processing means, for examp'e comprised in a central processor of an additiona' programmable device, is provided remotely from and in wire'ess data communication in use with, the portable monitoring device of the first aspect of the invention. The portable monitoring device of the first aspect of the invention acts in conjunction with the processing means to constitute a system that is capable of processing the collected data and monitoring the condition of a user, and in particular to do so continuous'y in real time via wireless data communication between the portahie monitoring device and the processing means. The invention does not necessarily exclude some processor functionality also on the portable monitoring device of the first aspect of the invention. In such a case it maybe that the processor of the portable monitoring device and the processor of the remote processing means function together in use to constitute a system that is capable of processing the collected data and monitoring the condition of a user.
The suitable additional programmable device is conveniently a computing device. The additional programmable device might for example be a portable computing device such as a laptop, tablet, cell-phone etc.) or a bespoke portable device into which the portable monitoring device maybe placed in wireless communication for data communication and transfer.
The invention envisages any suitaNe wireless data connection being exploited between the portaNe monitoring device and the additional programmable device, for example wired or wireless, and for exampk including optical and audio connections etc.) such as are already provided in accordance with routine standards on cell-phones, hptops, tablets and the like. Preferably it exploits an existing and standard connection already provided on such a programmable device.
By imp'ementation of suitable program instructions on the processor of the additional programmable device, a system maybe provided that is capable of processing the collected data and monitoring the condition of a user.
PreferaNy, the processing means is adapted to determine the perceived condition of the user by numerical processing of the data received from the first and second sensors.
PreferaNy, the processing means is adapted to determine the perceived condition of the user by applying one or more probabilistic a'gorithms to the data received from the first and second sensors.
Preferably, the processing means uses a hidden Markov model to determine the perceived condition of the user based on the data received from the first and second sensors.
Preferably, the processing means adapts the probabilistic algorithms or the hidden Markov model based on changes in the data received from the first: and second sensors over a period of time.
Optionally, the processing means maybe adapted to determine the perceived condition of the user by determining a difference between a sensor reading received from the first and/or second sensor and known predetermined condition parameters of the user. In particular the processing means is adapted to determine an abnormality, and for exampk to determine an abnormality requiring clinica' intervention when a difference between a reading received and known predetermined condition parameters of the user exceeds a predetermined value. Additionally or akernatively the processing means maybe adapted to determine the perceived condition of the user and for example to determine an abnormality when a sensor reading received from the first and/or second sensor exhibits a sudden excessive change or when the perceived condition of the user falls below a predetermined nominal value.
The system may be adapted to generate an alert state when it so determines an abnormality.
Preferably, the system further comprises a user interface means adapted to allow the system to communicate with the user.
Preferably, the user interface means comprises an audio device and! or a visual display adapted to communicate one or more messages to the user dependent on the perceived condition of the user and receive a reply from the user.
For example, the user interface means comprises an audio device and/ or a visual display of a further processing device comprising a portable computing device such as a laptop, tablet, cell-phone etc., or a bespoke portable device.
Preferably, the determination of the perceived condition of the user is dependent upon the reply from the user.
It will be understood generally that a data processing step performed by the processing means can be implemented at least in part by a suitable set of machine readable instructions, data or code loaded onto the processing means and that the processing means may be adapted to provide a determination of a perceived condition of the user by such programming.
These machine readable instructions, data or code maybe loaded onto a processing means comprised in a general purpose computer, special purpose computer, or other programmable data processing device. These machine readable instructions, data or code may also be stored in a computer readable medium that can direct a computer or other programmable data processing device to function in a particular manner) such that the instructions stored in a computer readable medium produce an artide of manufacture including a processing means to implement the second aspect of the invention.
The suitable programmable data processing device might for example be a portable computing device with a visual or other display capability such as a laptop, tablet, cell-phone etc.) or a bespoke portaNe device.
In accordance with a third aspect) the invention comprises a set of such machine readable instructions such as computer program instructions, for example provided on a suitable data carrier, which may be loaded onto a suitable programmable device so as when so loaded to cause the said programmable device to constitute in conjunction with a portable device of the first aspect of the invention a system in accordance with the second aspect of the invention. In a possible embodiment, the intended suitable programmable device is a mobile telecommunications device and the computer program instructions are provided as a mobile telecommunications application.
Further in accordance with the invention in a fourth aspect, a portable device of the first aspect of the invention is provided in combination with a set of computer program instructions in accordance with the third aspect of the invention. The invention in the fourth aspect thus comprises a kit of parts adapted for use with a suitable programmable device so as to convert the programmable device in combination with the portable device of the first aspect of the invention into a monitoring system in accordance with the second aspect of the invention. PreferaNy the suitable programmable device is a mobile telecommunications device and the computer program instructions are provided as a mobile telecommunications application.
Other preferred features of the third and fourth aspects of the invention will be understood by analor with the description of the first and second aspects.
Preferably) the processing means is provided on a processing device and in particular a portable processing device as above discussed) which module additionally comprises a further communication means to enable the module to communicate remotely for example with a third party. In the preferred case the module may comprise a mobile device with a processor and an existing communication capability) for example a mobile telecommunications or mobile computing device) for example comprising a laptop, tablet, cell-phone etc. In such a case the further communication means is preferably implemented by the existing communication capability, for example via an established mobile telecommunications protocol.
A possible advantage of use of a portable processing device as above discussed might lie in the possibility of exploiting additional sensor functionality in the portable processing device. If the device is carried by the patient, then a sensor function on the device, and especially a non-biological sensor function such as an ambient condition monitor, a position sensor such as a GPS function) or a movement sensor such as an accelerometer, might provide useful additional information to the system. In particular a movement sensor such as an accelerometer may be utilised in this manner, since whether the patient is sedentary or moving may be a relevant factor in relating pulse rate to condition.
Preferably, the further communication means is adapted to communicate with a third party when the processor determines an abnormality in condition and for example an abnormality requiring clinical intervention.
For example the further communication means is adapted to communicate with a third party when a difference between the readings received and known condition parameters of the user exceeds a predetermined value.
Alternatively, the communication means is adapted to communicate with the third party when the first and/or second sensor detects a sudden change or when the perceived condition of the user falls below a predetermined value.
Optionally, the communication means is adapted to communicate data from the first and/or second sensors to the third party.
PreferaNy, the third party is the user's support dilnician or Doctor. Most preferably, the further communication means is controlled by the processing means to be triggered when the processing means determines an abnormal condition for example as defined above.
Preferably, the further communicadon means comprises a, wireless mobile telephone device, a radio device, a wi-fi device, a Voice over IP (VoIP) device, or an emergency communication device.
OpUonally, the first and second sensors are adapted o monitor the same condition to allow the processing means to eliminate false posidve determinations.
PreferaNy, the system comprises storage means to store data received from one or both of the first and second monitoring sensors and/or date regarding the perceived condition of the user and for example input by the user.
Alternatively, or additionally, the device comprises one or more further communication means to communicate with one or both of the first and second sensors.
PreferaNy, the further communication means comprises a wireless transceiver.
Preferably) the wearable device comprises a wireless transceiver to communicate data to the processing means of the second aspect Optionally, the wearable device further comprises additional processing means that co-operate with the remote processing means.
Optionally, the device is wearable on a wrist of the user in a specified position.
Brief Description of the Figures
The present invention will now be described by way of example only and with reference to the accompanying figures in which: Figure 1 illustrates in schematic form an exemplary monitoring system in accordance with an aspect of the present invention; Figure 2 illustrates in schematic form the processing device of the system illustrated in Figure 1, in accordance with an aspect of the present invention; and Figure 3 illustrates in schematic form an exemplary wrist mounted sensor device in accordance with an aspect of the present invention; Figure 4 illustrates the exemplary wrist mounted sensor device of figure 3 in an as-worn position.
Detailed Description of the Invention
The present invention is exemplified in the following description by a portable data and communication centre such as a mobile t&ephone or other mobile device similar in dimension to that of a mobile phone.
The present invention is capable of receiving continuous real time wireless data transmissions from two proprietary digital fixed body worn external biological sensors. These sensors are capable of detecting the wearer's heart rate and Oxygen Saturation (Sp02) levels continually.
The sensors are for example two reflective photoplethysmography (PPG) sensors. One sensor maybe set up as a heart rate sensor and the other as an oxygen saturation sensor. Alternatively, each sensor may have a dual functionality, for example operatable successively or selectively as either a heart rate sensor or as an oxygen saturation sensor to give flexibility/ redundancy.
The data received from each sensor is collected by the wrist: worn unit, transmitted wirelessly to the mobile processing device, analysed, for example by applying specific artificially intelligent probabilistic algorithms to each situation as indicated by the sensors. The results are used to estimate the immediate (perceived) condition of the user.
Examples of actions that the present invention may take, dependent: on the circumstances: the invention may automatically upload the wearer's current readings to the support clinician if the normal parameters are approached; the invention may activate external communication via mobile te'ephony to facilitate a two-way dialogue between the user and the call recipient Figure 1 illustrates the high level concept of an example system for implementing the principks of the invention.
Referring to the system illustrated in Fig.1, a user [1] is wearing a wireless wrist device (4] containing sensors which measure pulse and oxygen levels and movement. The central processing unit (5) incorporates a combined microphone and speaker (2 &3). The supporting clinician is represented by [6).
The processing device (1) continually receives (wireless) data from the wrist mounted sensors (4). The data is then analysed to establish a perceived' physical state of the wearer. The data being received is continually compared with the "standard parameters" which have been pre-determined from reference data and during the user setup process and/ or by the support clinician.
Figure 2 illustrates in schematic form the modular form of the processing device, using existing readily avallable modules and in particular an existing mobile telecommunications device combined with the portaNe monitoring device of the invention in a novel manner to deliver the functionality of the invention.
This comprises a central processor (5) (for example, an Intel Celeron D40 or an EM-X270 from Compulab which has embedded mobile device functionality and integral capability for GPS receiving, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, and an integrated speaker and microphone). The central processor (5) performs various functions including: housekeeping, software algorithms and voice interaction software.
A satellite communication module (10) enables user tracking via a global positioning system. The microphone (11) is an omni-directional microphone, and the speaker (12) is a micro mobile phone speaker. The function of these units is to enaNe the user to listen and verbally respond to questions asked by the voice software embedded in the central processor (5), and to converse with outside sources (5) as an ordinary mobile phone.
The wireless transceiver (13) may be an ELM 327 Bluetooth wireless transceiver, or any transceiver capaNe of receiving the data from the wrist sensors, and forwarding the same to the central processor (5) which compares these against the established readings/parameters for the user.
A wireless wrist device comprising an embodiment of the first aspect of the invention is shown in Fig.3.
The wireless wrist device [4) is wrist watch sized and has a sensor chassis with all necessary components secured in a waterproof housing and shaped to position the sensors correctly on the body. The strap [16a & 16b), which maybe of rubber, plastic, meta' or elastic, is used to secure the device securely to the inside of the user's wrist in a predetermined position.
The user's pulse is measured by the sensor (17] which maybe a piezo membrane, infra-red or a miniature microphone. The user's oxygen 1eves are measured by an infra-red sensor [18] of the type embedded in a normal Pulse Oximeer. Movement is determined by a 3 axis acce1eromeer [22). Power is provided by a removal button battery or a rechargeable battery (21).
Fig.4 illusraes the exemplary wrist mounted sensor device of Fig.3 in an as-worn posiUon. Fig.4a shows a cross seedon of the wrist and Fig.4b the external position of the sensors.
Fig.4 illustrates the exact location of the sensors [17 & 18) at the position [24).
The sensor chassis (4] is curved to follow the contour of the wrist [28] and is designed to position the sensors (17 & 18) on or near the skin, directly above the main artery (25). The chassis (4) maybe of formed pkstic or stainless steel or a rubber, employing a flexible substrate, in order to follow the curvature of the wrist.
The radius and ulna bones of the wrist are represented by (26] and (27].
In a possible mode of operation the standard parameters for a user are established by the support clinician or otherwise during an initial set up routine.
This is a vital function that enables the central processing unit (9) to use these parameters as the user's data set and reference point Any deviation from these established pre set parameters (for example, if the Sp02 level falls to 97) will automatically generate a verbal response to the user (1] , and upload the readings via the central processing unit (2] to the support clinician.
Historically the elderly and infirm have resisted using modern technological solutions, because of their complexity, size, weight or their complete lack of discretion in branding the individual as being monitored'.
The processing device (2] is preferably always kept within hearing distance of the user at all times. Using conventional and readily available components the processing device may be the size of a small mobile phone, and because (a least in the exemplary embodiment herein described) the system is automated o verbally respond to the readings. The discrete size of the wrist device (4) will help to remove any potential resistance by the end users.
The system is referred to as "live and un-tethered", which is to say that the wearer can go about their normal daily tasks unhindered.
The example system of the invention enables a mode of operation in which the mobile communication device, such as a mobile telephone device, is exploited to the full to allow a portable detector device in accordance with the first aspect of the invention both to use the processor of the device to process the data and to use the telephone communication abilities of the device to communicate automatically with a third party such as the support clinician.
The current methodology of support for COPD sufferers is to take their own SpOZ readings every hour or so using a finger pulse oximeter, and then ringing the support clinician to inform them of the readings for advice, is required.
Unfortunately if the oxygen levels fall too low, a coma will ensue, and the patient is then completely at risk.
Should this happen when a system in accordance with the invention is in use, the processing device (2] will, via on board telephony system (10], make contact with the support clinician and advise them of the wearer's condition to clarify and address the situation as necessary.
A number of other advantages can be had over the state of the art with regard to a number of features of the invention herein described.
The system will allow the individuals data to be stored and analysed by the clinicians at a later date whilst still having ftc capability of assisting the user in 1 5 real time.
Monitoring these measurements continually by a wrist sensor will alert the system of a potential situation developing in time to prevent them becoming serious incidents. These may include as an accident, medical problem, physical attack, potentially hypothermic situation, or any situation out of the ordinary' for the user.
The system may converse with a user using artificially intelligent questions designed to elicit the required action.
The system may if the need arise make contact with an assistive service by issuing a predetermined statement and facilitating a two way dialogue with the user.
The system may also operate even if the wearer is incapable of responding to any questions.
The system allows the user to carry on day to day living as normal, and not be confined to staying within range of a house phone to advise the support clinician of their readings. By integrating mobile telephone communication in the system) the system is capable of uploading data or raising an alarm anywhere where there is a mobile phone or emergency network.
The system may also comprise a storage device to store all the data received and enable a ttimelining' approach to measurement and analysis of a user's readings.
"Fimelining' is the process of establishing and recording an individual's daily routine and may assist in being able to spot any anomalies which may exacerbate their underlying medical condition.
Furthermore, the invention will monitor the user and if an episode occurs when the user is, for example) out walking, the system may follow the normal procedure to contact the support clinician.
Timelined data can be read periodically by a support clinician to ensure that the wearer is keeping within established parameters.
The system may utilise the latest in micro technologies [e.g. MEMS devices], which will enable the finished product to be ergonomically designed in a very small form factor, to reduce the risk of being not accepted by potential users.
Throughout the specification, unless the context demands otherwise, the terms comprise' or include') or variations such as comprises' or comprising', includes' or including' will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated integer or group of integers, but not the exclusion of any other integer or group of integers.
Further modifications and improvements maybe added without departing from the scope of the invention herein described.
The above merely describes an example mode of operation, in which the mobile tekphone device is exploited to the full to allow a portable detector device in accordance with the first aspect of the invention both to use its processor to process the data and to use its communication abilities to communicate automatically with a third party such as the support clinician. Other modes of operation, especially those that exploit the ability of a system in accordance with the invention to effect continuous real time monitoring of the patient's condition in a simple and untethered but effective manner, will be readily envisaged.
Claims (25)
- CLAIMS1. A monitoring device comprising: a first sensor adapted to monitor a heart rate associated with a user of the system; a second sensor adapted to monitor a ptilse oximeter oxygen saturation associated with a user of the system; a wearable wrist strap carrying the first and second sensors and configured so as to locate the first and second sensors on a ventral surface of the wrist of a user of the device; a data collection module adapted to collect data from each of the first and second sensors; a communication means adapted for wireless data transmission of the collected data.
- 2. The monitoring device of claim 1 wherein the wrist strap carrying the first and second sensors is configured so as to locate the first and second sensors generally over the radial artery.
- 3. The monitoring device of claim 1 or daim 2 wherein the first and second sensors and optionally additionally the data collection module and! or the communication means are compactly located together in a housing to be
- 4. The monitoring device of any preceding claim wherein the first sensor comprises a piezodectric sensor, and audio sensor, or a light sensor.
- 5. The monitoring device of claim 4 wherein the first sensor comprises a red light and! or infra-red sensor.
- 6. The monitoring device of any preceding claim wherein the second sensor comprises a red light and! or infra-red sensor.
- 7. The monitoring device of claim 5 or claim 6 wherein the sensor comprises a reflective photoplethysmography [PPGJ sensor.
- 8. The monitoring device of any preceding claim wherein the communication means comprises a wire'ess antenna.
- 9. A monitoring system comprising the monitoring device of any preceding claim in combination with and adapted for data communication with a processing means adapted to receive collected data from the device and provide a determination of a perceived condition of the user.
- 10. The monitoring system of claim 9 wherein the processing means comprises an additional programmable device including a central processor.
- 11. The monitoring system of claim 10 wherein the additional programmable device comprises a portable computing device.
- 12. The monitoring system of daim 10 or 11 wherein the additional programmable device comprises a laptop, tablet, cell-phone or the like or a bespoke portable computing device.
- 13. The monitoring system of one of claims 10 to 12 wherein the processing means is adapted to determine the condition of the user by analysis of the data from the first and second sensors.
- 14. The system of claim 13, wherein the processing means is adapted to determine the perceived condition of the user by applying one or more probabilistic algorithms to the data received from the first and second monitoring means.
- 15. The system of claim 13, wherein the processing means uses established parameters and a hidden Markov model to determine the perceived condition of the user based on the data received from the first and second monitoring means.
- 16. The system of claim 14 or claim 15, wherein the processing means adapts the probabilistic algorithms or the hidden Markov model based on changes in the data received from the first and second monitoring means over a period of time.
- 17. The system of one of claims 13 to 16 wherein the processing means is adapted to determine an abnormality when a difference between a reading received from the first and/or second sensor and known predetermined condition parameters of the user exceeds a predetermined value and! or when the first and/or second sensor detects a sudden change or when the perceived condition of the user falls below a predetermined value.
- 18. The system of claim 13 wherein the processing means is adapted to generate an alert state when it so determines an abnormality.
- 19. The system of one of claims 10 to 18, further comprising a user interface means adapted to allow the system to communicate with the user.
- 20. The system of claim 19, wherein the user interface means comprises an audio and! or visual device adapted to communicate one or more messages to the user dependent on the perceived condition of the user and receive a reply from the user.
- 21. The system of one of claims 10 to 20 wherein the processing means is provided on a module additionally comprising a further communication means to enable the module to communicate remotely for example with a third party.
- 22. The system of any preceding daim, wherein the processing means is adapted to determine an abnormality when a difference between a reading received from the first and/or second sensor and known predetermined condition parameters of the user exceeds a predetermined value and! or when the first and/or second sensor detects a sudden change or when the perceived condition of the user falls below a predetermined value and the further communication means is adapted to communicate with the third party when such an abnormality is determined.
- 23. The system of any preceding claim, wherein the further communication means is controlled by the processing means.
- 24. The system of any preceding claim, wherein the further communication means comprises a wireless mobile telephone device, a radio device, a wi-fi device, a Voice over IP (VoIP] device, or an emergency communication device.
- 25. The system of any preceding claim, wherein the system comprises storage means to store data received from one or both of the first and second sensors and/or the perceived condition of the user.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| GB1314526.3A GB2517179A (en) | 2013-08-14 | 2013-08-14 | Monitoring device and system |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| GB1314526.3A GB2517179A (en) | 2013-08-14 | 2013-08-14 | Monitoring device and system |
Publications (2)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| GB201314526D0 GB201314526D0 (en) | 2013-09-25 |
| GB2517179A true GB2517179A (en) | 2015-02-18 |
Family
ID=49262142
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| GB1314526.3A Withdrawn GB2517179A (en) | 2013-08-14 | 2013-08-14 | Monitoring device and system |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| GB (1) | GB2517179A (en) |
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| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
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| CN105095635A (en) * | 2014-05-13 | 2015-11-25 | 长天科技股份有限公司 | Portable device capable of compensating motion error to measure heartbeat information, heartbeat information measuring method and heartbeat information measuring system |
| WO2016139639A1 (en) * | 2015-03-05 | 2016-09-09 | Virgilio Savino | Intelligent safety system for vehicles |
| GB2579684A (en) * | 2017-10-03 | 2020-07-01 | Virtualclinic Direct Ltd | Data capture device |
| CN112006674A (en) * | 2020-09-04 | 2020-12-01 | 南方医科大学顺德医院(佛山市顺德区第一人民医院) | Wearable coronary heart disease detection equipment and analysis and judgment system for morbidity risk |
| US11259712B2 (en) | 2018-11-13 | 2022-03-01 | International Business Machines Corporation | Wearable reflectance-mode PPG sensor network having improved detected signal strength |
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| US20060253010A1 (en) * | 2004-09-28 | 2006-11-09 | Donald Brady | Monitoring device, method and system |
| US20070276270A1 (en) * | 2006-05-24 | 2007-11-29 | Bao Tran | Mesh network stroke monitoring appliance |
| US20090054751A1 (en) * | 2007-08-22 | 2009-02-26 | Bruce Babashan | Touchless Sensor for Physiological Monitor Device |
| WO2010120945A1 (en) * | 2009-04-16 | 2010-10-21 | Massachusetts Institute Of Technology | Washable wearable biosensor |
| US8460197B1 (en) * | 2011-06-13 | 2013-06-11 | Impact Sports Technologies, Inc. | Monitoring device with a pedometer |
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| US20060253010A1 (en) * | 2004-09-28 | 2006-11-09 | Donald Brady | Monitoring device, method and system |
| US20070276270A1 (en) * | 2006-05-24 | 2007-11-29 | Bao Tran | Mesh network stroke monitoring appliance |
| US20090054751A1 (en) * | 2007-08-22 | 2009-02-26 | Bruce Babashan | Touchless Sensor for Physiological Monitor Device |
| WO2010120945A1 (en) * | 2009-04-16 | 2010-10-21 | Massachusetts Institute Of Technology | Washable wearable biosensor |
| US8460197B1 (en) * | 2011-06-13 | 2013-06-11 | Impact Sports Technologies, Inc. | Monitoring device with a pedometer |
Cited By (5)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CN105095635A (en) * | 2014-05-13 | 2015-11-25 | 长天科技股份有限公司 | Portable device capable of compensating motion error to measure heartbeat information, heartbeat information measuring method and heartbeat information measuring system |
| WO2016139639A1 (en) * | 2015-03-05 | 2016-09-09 | Virgilio Savino | Intelligent safety system for vehicles |
| GB2579684A (en) * | 2017-10-03 | 2020-07-01 | Virtualclinic Direct Ltd | Data capture device |
| US11259712B2 (en) | 2018-11-13 | 2022-03-01 | International Business Machines Corporation | Wearable reflectance-mode PPG sensor network having improved detected signal strength |
| CN112006674A (en) * | 2020-09-04 | 2020-12-01 | 南方医科大学顺德医院(佛山市顺德区第一人民医院) | Wearable coronary heart disease detection equipment and analysis and judgment system for morbidity risk |
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| GB201314526D0 (en) | 2013-09-25 |
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| WAP | Application withdrawn, taken to be withdrawn or refused ** after publication under section 16(1) |