U.S. patent application number 12/813007 was filed with the patent office on 2010-09-30 for apparatus and method for monitoring and communicating wellness parameters of ambulatory patients.
This patent application is currently assigned to CARDIOCOM, LLC. Invention is credited to Judith A. Cosentino, Louis C. Cosentino, Steven George Dorfe, Duane Robert Duea, Michael John Duea, Richard C. Nubson.
Application Number | 20100249536 12/813007 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 23129824 |
Filed Date | 2010-09-30 |
United States Patent
Application |
20100249536 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Cosentino; Louis C. ; et
al. |
September 30, 2010 |
APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR MONITORING AND COMMUNICATING WELLNESS
PARAMETERS OF AMBULATORY PATIENTS
Abstract
The monitoring device incorporates transducing devices for
converting the desired measured parameters into electrical signals
capable of being processed by a local computer or microprocessor
system. The device interacts with the ambulatory patient and then,
via a modem or other electronic communication device, transmits the
measured parameters to a computer located at a remote site. At the
remote location. the various indicia of the ambulatory patient's
condition are monitored and analyzed by the medical professional
caregiver. To provide the ambulatory patient with an added level of
convenience and ease of use, such monitoring device is contained in
a single integrated package.
Inventors: |
Cosentino; Louis C.;
(Excelsior, MN) ; Duea; Michael John; (Savage,
MN) ; Duea; Duane Robert; (Apple Valley, MN) ;
Dorfe; Steven George; (Maple Grove, MN) ; Nubson;
Richard C.; (Eden Prairie, MN) ; Cosentino; Judith
A.; (Excelsior, MN) |
Correspondence
Address: |
FULBRIGHT & JAWORSKI L.L.P.;Attn: MN IP Docket
600 Congress Avenue, Suite 2400
Austin
TX
78701
US
|
Assignee: |
CARDIOCOM, LLC
Chanhassen
MN
|
Family ID: |
23129824 |
Appl. No.: |
12/813007 |
Filed: |
June 10, 2010 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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11230811 |
Sep 19, 2005 |
7736318 |
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12813007 |
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10719498 |
Nov 20, 2003 |
6946806 |
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11230811 |
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09918247 |
Jul 30, 2001 |
6723045 |
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10719498 |
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09293619 |
Apr 16, 1999 |
6290646 |
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09918247 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
600/300 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G01G 23/3735 20130101;
G16H 50/30 20180101; G01G 19/4146 20130101; Y10S 128/92 20130101;
G01G 23/3728 20130101; A61B 5/00 20130101; G06Q 40/08 20130101;
Y10S 128/903 20130101; G16H 40/67 20180101; A61B 5/0022 20130101;
G16H 10/20 20180101; G01G 19/44 20130101; Y10S 128/904
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
600/300 |
International
Class: |
A61B 5/00 20060101
A61B005/00 |
Claims
1. An apparatus for monitoring an ambulatory patient and
establishing communication to a caregiver regarding the wellness
parameters of such an ambulatory patient, said apparatus
comprising: a physiological parameter transducing device, said
device generating an electronic signal representative of the value
of the physiological parameter being monitored; a central processor
device, said central processor operatively coupled to said
parameter transducing device and processing said physiological
parameter electronic signals; an electronic receiver/transmitter
communication device, said communication device having one end
operatively coupled to said processor and another end operatively
coupled to a communication network, said communication device being
activated whenever the central processor recognizes a physiological
parameter within a predetermined range; an input device, said input
device operatively coupled to said processor and configured to
receive external commands; an output device, said output device
coupled to said processor and providing information comprising
external commands, physiological symptoms, wellness parameters, and
queries from said communication device; wherein said devices are
integrated into a single unit.
2. The apparatus according to claim 1 wherein said integrated unit
comprises: a base, said base including said physiological parameter
transducing device; a housing, said housing including said central
processor device, said electronic receiver/transmitter
communication device, said input device and said output device; and
a support member, said support member having a first end connected
to said base and a second end connected to said housing.
3. The apparatus according to claim 2, wherein said support member
is rigid.
4. The apparatus according to claim 2, wherein said support member
is adjustable.
5. The apparatus according to claim 2, wherein said support member
is flexible.
6. The apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the physiological
parameter transducing device is a scale for monitoring the body
weight of a chronic heart failure patient.
7. The apparatus according to claim 6 wherein said scale comprises:
a top plate defining an interior and exterior surface; a base plate
defining an interior and exterior surface; a load cell having a top
and bottom side and a first and second end disposed between said
top plate and said base plate, wherein the top side of the first
end of said load cell is in contact with a first support surface
within the interior surface of said top plate, and the bottom side
of the second end of said load cell is in contact with a second
support surface within the interior surface of said base plate.
8. The apparatus according to claim 7 wherein said load cell
further comprises a strain gage disposed on said load cell.
9. The apparatus according to claim 6 further comprising means for
determining whether said patient requires hospitalization or
medication adjustments based on said body weight.
10. The apparatus according to claim 6 wherein the scale is
accurately operable on a hard floor as well as a carpeted
floor.
11. The apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the physiological
parameter transducing device is a scale for monitoring the body
weight of an overweight or obese individual.
12. The apparatus according to claim 11 further comprising means
for determining whether said individual requires diet modification,
or additional nutritional consultation.
13. The apparatus according to claim 1 further comprising means for
determining whether said patient requires hospitalization or
medication adjustments based on said wellness parameters.
14. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said communication
device is a modem.
15. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said communication
device is an RS-232 device.
16. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said communication
device is an Internet communication device.
17. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said communication
device is a satellite communication device.
18. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said communication
device is an infra-red communication device.
19. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said communication
device is a power line carrier communication device.
20. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said communication
device is a Radio Frequency (RF) transceiver.
21. The apparatus according to claim 20, wherein said RF
transceiver has first and second portions, said first portion being
operatively coupled to said processor and in radio communication
with said second portion, said second portion being located
remotely from said first portion and operatively coupled to said
communication network.
22. The apparatus according to claim 21, wherein said second
portion includes means for wall mounting said second portion.
23. The apparatus according to claim 1 wherein a nurse is in
communication with said patient through said communication
network.
24. The apparatus according to claim 1 wherein said output device
is a synthetic speech communication device, said speech
communication device operatively coupled to said processor and
audibly communicating information to said patient.
25. The apparatus according to claim 1 wherein said output device
is a visual display device.
26. The apparatus according to claim 1 wherein said output device
is a pacemaker coupled to said data input device.
27. A system for monitoring an ambulatory patient and establishing
communication to a caregiver regarding the wellness parameters of
such an ambulatory patient between a first location and a remote
central office location, said system comprising: a monitoring
apparatus at said first location comprising: (a) a physiological
parameter transducing device, said device generating an electronic
signal representative of the value of the physiological parameter
being monitored; (b) a central processor device, said central
processor operatively coupled to said parameter transducing device
and processing said physiological parameter electronic signals; (c)
an electronic receiver/transmitter communication device, said
communication device having one end operatively coupled to said
processor and another end operatively coupled to a communication
network, said communication device being activated whenever the
central processor recognizes a physiological parameter within a
predetermined range; (d) an input device, said input device
operatively coupled to said processor and configured to receive
external commands; (e) an output device, said output device coupled
to said processor and providing information comprising external
commands, physiological symptoms, wellness parameters, and queries
from said communication device, wherein said devices are integrated
into a single unit; and a processing computer at a remote central
office location in communication with said remote monitoring
apparatus for exchanging information with said monitoring
apparatus.
28. The system according to claim 27 wherein said integrated unit
comprises: a base, said base including said physiological parameter
transducing device; a housing, said housing including said central
processor device, said electronic receiver/transmitter
communication device, said input device and said output device; and
a support member, said support member having a first end connected
to said base and a second end connected to said housing.
29. The system according to claim 28, wherein said support member
is rigid.
30. The system according to claim 28, wherein said support member
is adjustable.
31. The system according to claim 28, wherein said support member
is flexible.
32. The system according to claim 27 wherein the physiological
parameter transducing device is a scale for monitoring the body
weight of a chronic heart failure patient.
33. The system according to claim 32 wherein said scale comprises:
a top plate defining an interior and exterior surface; a base plate
defining an interior and exterior surface; a load cell having a top
and bottom side and a first and second end disposed between said
top plate and said base plate, wherein the top side of the first
end of said load cell is in contact with a first support surface
within the interior surface of said top plate, and the bottom side
of the second end of said load cell is in contact with a second
support surface within the interior surface of said base plate.
34. The apparatus according to claim 33 wherein said load cell
further comprises a strain gage disposed on said load cell.
35. The system according to claim 32 further comprising means for
determining whether said patient requires hospitalization or
medication adjustments based on said body weight.
36. The system according to claim 32 wherein the scale is
accurately operable on a hard floor as well as a carpeted
floor.
37. The system according to claim 27 wherein the physiological
parameter transducing device is a scale for monitoring the body
weight of an overweight or obese individual.
38. The system according to claim 37 further comprising means for
determining whether said individual requires diet modification, or
additional nutritional consultation.
39. The system according to claim 27 further comprising means for
determining whether said patient requires hospitalization or
medication adjustments based on said wellness parameters.
40. The system according to claim 27, wherein said communication
device is a modem.
41. The system according to claim 27, wherein said communication is
over an RS-232 connection.
42. The system according to claim 27, wherein said communication
device is over an Internet communication device.
43. The system according to claim 27, wherein said communication
device is an infra-red communication device.
44. The system according to claim 27, wherein said communication
device is a power-line carrier communication device.
45. The system according to claim 27, wherein said communication
device is a satellite communication device.
46. The system according to claim 27, wherein said communication
device is a Radio Frequency (RF) transceiver.
47. The system according to claim 46, wherein said RF transceiver
has first and second portions, said first portion being operatively
coupled to said processor and in radio communication with said
second portion, said second portion being located remotely from
said first portion and is operatively coupled to said communication
network.
48. The system according to claim 47, wherein said second portion
includes means for wall mounting said second portion.
49. The system according to claim 27 wherein a nurse is in
communication with said patient through said communication
network.
50. The system according to claim 27 wherein said output device is
a synthetic speech communication device, said speech communication
device operatively coupled to said processor and audibly
communicating information to said patient.
51. The system according to claim 27 wherein said output device is
a visual display device.
52. The system according to claim 27 wherein said output is a
pacemaker coupled to said data input device.
53. A method for monitoring an ambulatory patient and establishing
communication to a caregiver regarding the wellness parameters of
such an ambulatory patient, said method comprising: monitoring a
physiological parameters; generating an electronic signal
representative of the value of said physiological parameter; in a
central processor device, processing said physiological parameter
electronic signals; communicating said processed electronic signals
between a first location and a remote central location; inputting
external commands into said processor; and outputting said
information.
54. The method according to claim 53 wherein the monitoring step
includes monitoring the body weight of a chronic heart failure
patient.
55. The method according to claim 54 further comprising determining
whether said patient requires hospitalization or medication
adjustments based on said body weight.
56. The method according to claim 53 further comprising determining
whether said patient requires hospitalization or medication
adjustments based on said wellness parameters.
57. The method according to claim 53 wherein the communicating step
includes communicating to a nurse.
58. The method according to claim 53 wherein said outputting step
includes audibly communicating information to said patient through
a synthetic speech communication device.
59. The method according to claim 53 wherein said outputting step
includes visually displaying information.
60. The method according to claim 49 wherein said outputting step
includes inputting data into a pacemaker device.
Description
BACKGROUND
[0001] There is a need in the medical profession for an apparatus
and method capable of monitoring and transmitting physiological and
wellness parameters of ambulatory patients to a remote site where a
medical professional caregiver evaluates such physiological and
wellness parameters. Specifically, there is a need for an
interactive apparatus that is coupled to a remote computer such
that a medical professional caregiver can supervise and provide
medical treatment to remotely located ambulatory patients.
[0002] There is needed an apparatus that monitors and transmits
physiological and wellness parameters of ambulatory patients to a
remote computer, whereby a medical professional caregiver evaluates
the information and provokes better overall health care and
treatment for the patient. Accordingly, such an apparatus can be
used to prevent unnecessary hospitalizations of such ambulatory
patients.
[0003] Also, there is needed an apparatus for monitoring and
transmitting such physiological and wellness parameters that is
easy to use and that is integrated into a single unit. For example,
there is a need for an ambulatory patient monitoring apparatus that
comprises: a transducing device for providing electronic signals
representative of measured physiological parameters, such as
weight; an input/output device; and a communication device as a
single integrated unit that offers ambulatory patients ease of use,
convenience and portability.
[0004] Patients suffering from chronic diseases, such as chronic
heart failure, will benefit from such home monitoring apparatus.
These patients normally undergo drug therapy and lifestyle changes
to manage their medical condition. In these patients, the medical
professional caregiver monitors certain wellness parameters and
symptoms including: weakness, fatigue, weight gain, edema, dyspnea
(difficulty breathing or shortness of breath), nocturnal cough,
orthopnea (inability to lie flat in bed because of shortness of
breath), and paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea (awakening short of
breath relieved by sitting or standing); and body weight to measure
the response of drug therapy. Patients will also benefit from daily
reminders to take medications (improving compliance), reduce sodium
intake and perform some type of exercise. With the information
received from the monitoring device, the medical professional
caregiver can determine the effectiveness of the drug therapy, the
patient's condition, whether the patient's condition is improving
or whether the patient requires hospitalization or an office
consultation to prevent the condition from getting worse.
[0005] Accordingly, there is needed an apparatus and method for
monitoring the patients from a remote location, thus allowing
medical professional caregivers to receive feedback of the
patient's condition without having to wait until the patient's next
office visit. In addition, there is needed an apparatus and method
that allows medical professional caregivers to monitor and manage
the patient's condition to prevent the rehospitalization of such
patient, or prevent the patient's condition from deteriorating to
the point where hospitalization would be required. As such, there
are social as well as economic benefits to such an apparatus and
method.
[0006] The patient receives the benefits of improved health when
the professional caregiver is able to monitor and quickly react to
any adverse medical conditions of the patient or to any improper
responses to medication. Also, society benefits because hospital
resources will not be utilized unnecessarily.
[0007] As a group, patients suffering from chronic heart failure
are the most costly to treat. There are approximately 5 million
patients in the U.S.A. and 15 million worldwide with chronic heart
failure. The mortality rate of patients over 65 years of age is
50%. Of those that seek medical help and are hospitalized, 50% are
rehospitalized within 6 months. Of these, 16% will be
rehospitalized twice. The patients that are hospitalized spend an
average of 9.1 days in the hospital at a cost of $12,000.00 for the
period. Accordingly, there is a need to reduce the
rehospitalization rate of chronic heart failure patients by
providing improved in-home patient monitoring, such as frequently
monitoring the patient's body weight and adjusting the drug therapy
accordingly.
[0008] Approximately 60 million American adults ages 20 through 74
are overweight. Obesity is a known risk factor for heart disease,
high blood pressure, diabetes, gallbladder disease, arthritis,
breathing problems, and some forms of cancer such as breast and
colon cancer. Americans spend $33 billion dollars annually on
weight-reduction products and services, including diet foods,
products and programs.
[0009] There is a need in the weight management profession for an
apparatus and method capable of monitoring and transmitting
physiological and wellness parameters of overweight/obese patients
to a remote site where a weight management professional or
nutritionist evaluates such physiological and wellness parameters.
Specifically, there is a need for an interactive apparatus that is
coupled to a remote computer such that a weight management
professional or nutritionist can supervise and provide nutritional
guidance to remotely located individuals.
[0010] The apparatus allows overweight individuals to participate
in a weight loss/management program with accurate weight monitoring
from home. The apparatus improves the convenience for the
individual participant by eliminating the need to constantly
commute to the weight management center and "weigh-in."Furthermore,
the individual can participate in a weight management program while
under professional supervision from the privacy and comfort of
their own home. Moreover, the apparatus allows the weight
management professional to intervene and adapt the individuals diet
and exercise routine based on the weight and wellness information
received.
[0011] For the foregoing reasons, there is a need for an apparatus,
system and method capable of monitoring and transmitting
physiological and wellness parameters of ambulatory patients, such
as body weight, to a remote location where a medical professional
caregiver, weight management professional or nutritionist can
evaluate and respond to the patient's medical wellness
condition.
SUMMARY
[0012] The invention is directed to an apparatus, system and method
that satisfies this need. The apparatus having features of the
invention is capable of monitoring an ambulatory patient and
establishing two way communication to a medical professional
caregiver, weight management professional or nutritionist regarding
the wellness parameters of such an ambulatory patient.
[0013] The apparatus comprises a physiological parameter
transducing device. The device generates an electronic signal that
is representative of the value of the physiological parameter being
monitored. The apparatus further comprises a central processor
device. The central processor device is operatively coupled to the
parameter transducing device and' processes the electronic signals
that are representative of the physiological parameters. The
apparatus further comprises an electronic receiver/transmitter
communication device. The communication device having one end
operatively coupled to the processor and another end operatively
coupled to a communication network. The communication device is
activated whenever the central processor recognizes a physiological
parameter within a predetermined range. The apparatus further
comprises an input device. The input device is operatively coupled
to said processor and configured to receive external commands. The
apparatus further comprises an output device. The output device is
coupled to the processor and provides information comprising
external commands, physiological symptoms, wellness parameters, and
queries from the communication device. All of these devices are
integrated into a single unit.
[0014] The system having features of the invention monitors an
ambulatory patient and establishes communication to a caregiver,
regarding the wellness parameters of such an ambulatory patient,
between a first location and a remote central office location. The
system comprises a monitoring apparatus located at the first
location. The monitoring apparatus comprises: (a) a physiological
parameter transducing device that generates an electronic signal
representative of the value of the physiological parameter being
monitored; (b) a central processor device that is operatively
coupled to the parameter transducing device for processing the
physiological parameter electronic signals; (c) an electronic
receiver/transmitter communication device, said communication
device having one end operatively coupled to the processor and
another end operatively coupled to a communication network that is
activated whenever the central processor recognizes a physiological
parameter within a predetermined range; (d) an input device that is
operatively coupled to the processor and configured to receive
external commands; (e) an output device coupled to the processor
that provides information comprising external commands,
physiological symptoms, wellness parameters, and queries from the
communication device, wherein these devices are integrated into a
single unit. The system further comprises a processing computer at
a remote central office location that is in communication with the
remote monitoring apparatus and exchanges information with the
monitoring apparatus.
[0015] The method having features of the invention monitors an
ambulatory patient and establishes communication to a caregiver
regarding the wellness parameters of such an ambulatory patient.
The method comprises monitoring a physiological parameter;
generating an electronic signal representative of the value of the
physiological parameter; in a central processor device, processing
the physiological parameter electronic signals; communicating the
processed electronic signals between a first location and a remote
central location; inputting external commands into the processor;
and outputting the information.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0016] These and other features, aspects and advantages of the
invention will become better understood with regard to the
following description, appended claims and accompanying drawings
where:
[0017] FIGS. 1A-E illustrates several embodiments of the monitoring
apparatus in accordance with the invention;
[0018] FIG. 2 illustrates a monitoring apparatus with a support
member in accordance with one embodiment of the invention;
[0019] FIG. 3 illustrates a monitoring apparatus with a support
member in accordance with one embodiment of the invention;
[0020] FIG. 4 is a functional block diagram of a microprocessor
system forming an environment in which one embodiment of the
invention may be employed;
[0021] FIG. 5 is functional block diagram of a microprocessor
system forming the environment in which one embodiment of the
invention may be employed;
[0022] FIG. 6 is a functional block diagram of a microprocessor
system forming the environment in which one embodiment of the
invention may be employed;
[0023] FIG. 7 illustrates a system in which one embodiment of the
invention may be employed;
[0024] FIG. 8 is a logic flow diagram illustrating the steps
utilized to implement one embodiment of the invention;
[0025] FIG. 9 illustrates a sectional view of the electronic scale
in accordance with one embodiment of the invention; and
[0026] FIG. 10 illustrates a top plate of the electronic scale in
accordance with one embodiment of the invention.
DESCRIPTION
[0027] The embodiments of the invention described herein are
implemented as a medical apparatus, system and method capable of
monitoring wellness parameters and physiological data of ambulatory
patients and transmitting such parameters and data to a remote
location. At the remote location a medical professional caregiver
monitors the patient's condition and provides medical treatment as
may be necessary.
[0028] The monitoring device incorporates transducing devices for
converting the desired measured parameters into electrical signals
capable of being processed by a local computer or microprocessor
system. The device interacts with the ambulatory patient and then,
via an electronic communication device such as a modem, transmits
the measured parameters to a computer located at a remote site. At
the remote location the various indicia of the ambulatory patient's
condition are monitored and analyzed by the medical professional
caregiver. To provide the ambulatory patient with an added level of
convenience and ease of use, such monitoring device is contained in
a single integrated package.
[0029] Communication is established between the monitoring
apparatus and a remote computer via modem and other electronic
communication devices that are generally well known commercially
available products. At the remote location, the caregiver reviews
the patient's condition based on the information communicated (e.g.
wellness parameters and physiological data) and provokes medical
treatment in accordance with such information.
[0030] Referring now to FIG. 1A, as this embodiment of the
invention is described herein, an integrated monitoring apparatus
is shown generally at 10. The integrated monitoring apparatus 10
includes an electronic scale 18. The electronic scale 18 further
includes a top plate 11 and a base plate 12. The integrated
monitoring apparatus 10 further includes a housing 14 and a support
member 16A. The base plate 12 is connected to the housing 14
through the support member 16A. The housing 14 further includes
output device(s) 30 and input device(s) 28. The apparatus 10 is
integrated as a single unit with the support member coupling the
base plate 12 and the housing 14, thus providing a unit in a one
piece construction.
[0031] It will be appreciated that other physiological transducing
devices can be utilized in addition to the electronic scale 18. For
example, blood pressure measurement apparatus and electrocardiogram
(EKG) measurement apparatus can be utilized with the integrated
monitoring apparatus 10 for recordation and/or transmission of
blood pressure and EKG measurements to a remote location. It will
be appreciated that other monitoring devices of physiological body
functions that provide an analog or digital electronic output may
be utilized with the monitoring apparatus 10.
[0032] Referring to FIGS. 1B, 1C, 1D and 1E it will be appreciated
that the support member 16A (FIG. 1A) can be made adjustable. For
example, FIG. 1B illustrates an embodiment of the invention
utilizing a telescoping support member 16B. Likewise, FIG. 1C
illustrates an embodiment of the invention utilizing a folding
articulated support member 16C. FIG. 1D illustrates yet another
embodiment of the invention utilizing support member 16D that folds
at a pivot point 25 located at its base. It will also be
appreciated that other types of articulated and folding support
members may be utilized in other embodiments of the invention. For
example, FIG. 1E illustrates an embodiment of the invention
providing a support member 16E that is removably insertable into a
socket 23. A cable 22 is passed through the support member 16E to
carry electrical signals from the electronic scale 18 to the
housing 14 for further processing. A tether 20 is provided to
restrain the movement of the support member 16E relative to the
base plate 12 once the it is removed from the socket 23.
[0033] FIG. 2 illustrates an embodiment of the invention where the
support member 82 folds about pivot point 84. Folding the
integrated monitoring apparatus about pivot point 84 provides a
convenient method of shipping, transporting or moving the apparatus
in a substantially horizontal orientation. The preferred direction
of folding is indicated in the figure, however, the support member
82 can be made to fold in either direction. Furthermore, an
embodiment of the invention provides rubber feet 85 underneath the
base plate 12.
[0034] Furthermore, FIG. 3 illustrates one embodiment of the
invention providing an articulated, folding support member 86. The
support member 86 folds at two hinged pivot points 88, 90. Also
illustrated is a sectional view of the scale 18, top plate 11, base
plate 12, load cell 100 and strain gage 102.
[0035] Referring now to FIG. 4, a microprocessor system 24
including a CPU 38, a memory 40, an optional input/output (I/O)
controller 42 and a bus controller 44 is illustrated. It will be
appreciated that the microprocessor system 24 is available in a
wide variety of configurations and is based on CPU chips such as
the Intel, Motorola or Microchip PIC family of microprocessors or
microcontrollers.
[0036] It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the
monitoring apparatus requires an electrical power source 19 to
operate. As such, the monitoring apparatus may be powered by:
ordinary household A/C line power, DC batteries or rechargeable
batteries. Power source 19 provides electrical power to the housing
for operating the electronic devices. A power source for operating
the electronic scale 18 is generated within the housing, however
those skilled in the art will recognize that a separate power
supply may be provided or the power source 19 may be adapted to
provide the proper voltage or current for operating the electronic
scale 18.
[0037] The housing 14 includes a microprocessor system 24, an
electronic receiver/transmitter communication device such as a
modem 36, an input device 28 and an output device 30. The modem 36
is operatively coupled to the microprocessor system 24 via the
electronic bus 46, and to a remote computer 32 via a communication
network 34 and modem 35. The communication network 34 being any
communication network such as the telephone network, wide area
network or Internet. It will be appreciated that the modem 36 is a
generally well known commercially available product available in a
variety of configurations operating at a variety of BAUD rates. In
one embodiment of the invention the modem 36 is asynchronous,
operates at 2400 BAUD and is readily available off-the-shelf from
companies such as Rockwell or Silicon Systems Inc. (SSI).
[0038] It will be appreciated that output device(s) 30 may be
interfaced with the microprocessor system 24. These output devices
30 include a visual electronic display device 31 and/or a synthetic
speech device 33. Electronic display devices 31 are well known in
the art and are available in a variety of technologies such as
vacuum fluorescent, liquid crystal or Light Emitting Diode (LED).
The patient reads alphanumeric data as it scrolls on the electronic
display device 31. Output devices 30 include a synthetic speech
output device 33 such as a Chipcorder manufactured by ISD (part No.
4003). Still, other output devices 30 include pacemaker data input
devices, drug infusion pumps or transformer coupled
transmitters.
[0039] It will be appreciated that input device(s) 28 may be
interfaced with the microprocessor system 24. In one embodiment of
the invention an electronic keypad 29 is provided for the patient
to enter responses into the monitoring apparatus. Patient data
entered through the electronic keypad 29 may be scrolled on the
electronic display 31 or played back on the synthetic speech device
33.
[0040] The microprocessor system 24 is operatively coupled to the
modem 36, the input device(s) 28 and the output device(s) 30. The
electronic scale 18 is operatively coupled to the central system
24. Electronic measurement signals from the electronic scale 18 are
processed by the A/D converter 15. This digitized representation of
the measured signal is then interfaced to the CPU 38 via the
electronic bus 46 and the bus controller 44. In one embodiment of
the invention, the physiological transducing device includes the
electronic scale 18. The electronic scale 18 is generally well
known and commercially available. The electronic scale 18 may
include one or more of the following elements: load cells, pressure
transducers, linear variable differential transformers (LVDTs),
capacitance coupled sensors, strain gages and semiconductor strain
gages. These devices convert the patient's weight into a useable
electronic signal that is representative of the patient's
weight.
[0041] In will be appreciated that Analog-to-Digital (A/D)
converters are also generally well known and commercially available
in a variety of configurations. Furthermore, an A/D converter 15
may be included within the physiological transducing device or
within the microprocessor system 24 or within the housing 14. One
skilled in the art would have a variety of design choices in
interfacing a transducing device comprising an electronic sensor or
transducer with the microprocessor system 24.
[0042] The scale 18 may provide an analog or digital electronic
signal output depending on the particular type chosen. If the
electronic scale 18 provides an analog output signal in response to
a weight input, the analog signal is converted to a digital signal
via the A/D converter 15. The digital signal is then interfaced
with the electronic bus 46 and the CPU 38. If the electronic scale
18 provides a digital output signal in response to a weight input,
the digital signal may be interfaced with electronic bus 46 and the
CPU 38.
[0043] FIG. 5 illustrates one embodiment of the invention where the
communication device is a radio frequency (RF) transceiver. The
transceiver comprises a first radio frequency device 50 including
an antenna 52, and a second radio frequency device 54, including an
antenna 56. The first radio frequency device 52 is operatively
coupled to the microprocessor system 24 via the electronic bus 46,
and is in radio communication with the second radio frequency
device 54. The second radio frequency device 54 is operatively
coupled through a microprocessor 55 which is operatively coupled to
a modem 58. The modem 58 is coupled to the communication network 34
and is in communication with the remote computer 32 via the modem
35. The first radio frequency device 50 and the second radio
frequency device 54 are remotely located, one from the other. It
will be appreciated that such radio frequency devices 50, 54 are
generally well known and are commercially available products from
RF Monolithics Inc. (RFM).
[0044] In one embodiment of the invention, such transceivers
operate at radio frequencies in the range of 900-2400 MHz.
Information from the microprocessor system 24 is encoded and
modulated by the first RF device 50 for subsequent transmission to
the second RF device 54, located remotely therefrom. The second RF
device 54 is coupled to a conventional modem 58 via the
microprocessor 55. The modem 58 is coupled to the communication
network 34 via a in-house wiring connection and ultimately to the
modem 35 coupled to the remote computer 32. Accordingly,
information may be transmitted to and from the microprocessor
system 24 via the RF devices 50, 54 via a radio wave or radio
frequency link, thus providing added portability and flexibility to
the monitoring apparatus 10. It will be appreciated that various
other communications devices may be utilized such as RS-232 serial
communication connections, Internet communications connection as
well as satellite communication connections. Other communications
devices that operate by transmitting and receiving infra-red (IR)
energy can be utilized to provide a wireless communication link
between the patient monitoring apparatus 10 and a conveniently
located network connection. Furthermore, X-10.TM. type devices can
also be used as part of a communication link between the patient
monitoring apparatus 10 and a convenient network connection in the
home. X-10 USA and other companies manufacture a variety of devices
that transmit/receive data without the need for any special wiring.
The devices works by sending signals through the home's regular
electrical wires using what is called power line carrier (PLC).
[0045] Referring now to FIG. 6, one embodiment of the invention
wherein a digital electronic scale 21 is provided. Digital weight
measurements from the digital electronic scale 21 may be interfaced
with the microprocessor system and CPU 38 without requiring
additional amplification, signal conditioning and A/D
converters.
[0046] Referring now to FIG. 7, a two way communication system in
accordance with the principals of the present invention is shown.
The physiological data of an ambulatory patient is monitored
utilizing monitoring apparatus 10 at a local site 58 and is
transmitted to a remote computer 32 located at a remote computer
site 62 via communication network 34. At the remote computer site
62 a medical professional caregiver such as a nurse, physician or
nurse practitioner monitors the patient data and provokes treatment
in accordance with such data.
[0047] Operations to perform the preferred embodiment of the
invention are shown in FIG. 8. Block 64 illustrates the operation
of monitoring or measuring the ambulatory patient's physiological
parameter. In one embodiment of the invention, namely for chronic
heart failure patients, the physiological parameter monitored is
the patient's weight. However, it will be appreciated by those
skilled in the art that the physiological parameters may include
blood pressure, EKG, temperature, urine output and any other.
[0048] Block 66 illustrates the operation of converting a monitored
or measured physiological parameter from a mechanical input to an
electronic output by utilizing a transducing device. In one
embodiment of the invention the transducing device is an electronic
scale 18, which converts the patient's weight into a useable
electronic signal.
[0049] At block 68, the microprocessor system 24 processes the
electronic signal representative of the transduced physiological
parameter. If the resulting parameter value is within certain
preprogrammed limits the microprocessor system 24 initiates
communication within the remote computer 32 via the communication
device 36 over the communication network 34.
[0050] Block 70 illustrates the operation whereby information such
as wellness parameters and physiological data are communicated
between the monitoring apparatus 10 and the ambulatory patient. An
exemplary list of the questions asked to the patent by the
monitoring apparatus are provided in Table 5.
[0051] Referring now to FIGS. 7 and 8, upon establishing
communication between the local monitoring apparatus 10, at the
local site 58, and the remote computer 32, at remote site 62, block
72 illustrates the operation of communicating or transmitting
processed signals representative of physiological data and wellness
parameters from the local site 58 to the remote site 62.
[0052] FIG. 9 is a sectional view the scale 18 portion of one
embodiment of the invention. The scale 18 comprises a top plate 11
and a base plate 12. The top plate 11 and the base plate 12 having
a thickness "T". A load cell 100 is disposed between the top plate
11 and the base plate 12 and rests on support/mounting surfaces 96
and 98.
[0053] The load cell 100 is a transducer that responds to a forces
applied to it. During operation, when a patient steps on the
electronic scale 18, the load cell 100 responds to a force "F"
transmitted through the top plate 11 and a first support/mounting
surface 96. The support/mounting surface 96 is contact with a first
end on a top side of the load cell 100. A force "F'" that is equal
and opposite to "F" is transmitted from the surface that the
electronic scale 18 is resting on, thorough the base plate 12 and a
second support/mounting surface 98. The second support/mounting
surface 98 is in contact with a second end on a bottom side of the
load cell 100. In one embodiment, the load cell 100 is attached to
the top plate 11 and the base plate 12, respectively, with bolts
that engage threaded holes provided in the load cell 100. In one
embodiment the load cell 100 further comprises a strain gage
102.
[0054] The strain gage 102 made from ultra-thin heat-treated
metallic foils. The strain gage 102 changes electrical resistance
when it is stressed, e.g. placed in tension or compression. The
strain gage 102 is mounted or cemented to the load cell 100 using
generally known techniques in the art, for example with specially
formulated adhesives, urethanes, epoxies or rubber latex. The
positioning of the strain gage 102 will generally have some
measurable effect on overall performance of the load cell 100.
Furthermore, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art
that additional reference strain gages may be disposed on the load
cell where they will not be subjected to stresses or loads for
purposes of temperature compensating the strain gage 102 under
load. During operation over varying ambient temperatures, signals
from the reference strain gages may be added or subtracted to the
measurement signal of the strain gage 102 under load to compensate
for any adverse effects of ambient temperature on the accuracy of
the strain gage 102.
[0055] The forces, "F" and "F'", apply stress to the surface on
which the strain gage 102 is attached. The weight of the patient
applies a load on the top plate 11. Under the load the strain
gage(s) 102 mounted to the top of the load cell 100 will be in
tension/compression as the load cell bends. As the strain gage 102
is stretched or compressed its resistance changes proportionally to
the applied load. The strain gage 102 is electrically connected
such that when an input voltage or current is applied to the strain
gage 102, an output current or voltage signal is generated which is
proportional to the force applied to the load cell 100. This output
signal is then converted to a digital signal by A/D converter
15.
[0056] The design of the load cell 100 having a first end on a top
side attached to the top plate 11 and a second end on a bottom side
attached to the base plate 12 provides a structure for stressing
the strain gage 102 in a repeatable manner. The structure enables a
more accurate and repeatable weight measurement. This weight
measurement is repeatable whether the scale 18 rests on a rigid
tile floor or on a carpeted floor. FIG. 10 illustrates one
embodiment of the top plate 11 that provides four mounting holes
106 for attaching the base plate 12 to one end of the load cell
100. The base plate 12 provides similar holes for attaching to the
other end of the load cell 100. The top plate 11 and the base plate
12 (not shown) each comprise a plurality of stiffening ribs 108
that add strength and rigidity to the electronic scale 18.
[0057] Table 1 shows multiple comparative weight measurements taken
with the electronic scale 18 resting on a tile floor and a carpeted
floor without rubber feet on the scale 18. The measurements were
taken using the same load cell 100. The thickness "T" of the top
plate 11 and supporting ribs was 0.125'' except around the load
cell, where the thickness of the supporting ribs was 0.250''. The
thickness of the load cell 100 support/mounting surfaces 96, 98
(FIG. 9) was 0.375''. As indicated in Table 1, with the scale 18
resting on a tile floor, the average measured weight was 146.77
lbs., with a standard deviation of 0.11595. Subsequently, with the
scale 18 resting on a 0.5'' carpet with 0.38'' pad underneath and
an additional 0.5'' rug on top of the carpet, the average measured
weight was 146.72 lbs., with a standard deviation of 0.16866.
TABLE-US-00001 TABLE 1 Thick Scale Parts Around Load Cell 0.250''
TILE (lbs.) CARPET (lbs.) 146.9 146.7 146.7 147 146.9 146.6 146.8
146.7 146.6 146.6 146.8 147 146.8 146.5 146.7 146.6 146.9 146.8
146.6 146.7 0.11595 (stddev) 0.16866 (stddev) 146.77 (average)
146.72 (average)
[0058] Table 2 shows multiple weight measurements taken with the
scale 18 on a tile floor and a carpeted floor with rubber feet on
the bottom of the scale 18. The measurements were taken using the
same load cell 100. The thickness "T" of the top plate 11 was
0.125'' including the thickness around the load cell. As indicated
in Table 2, with the scale 18 resting on a tile floor on rubber
feet, the average measured weight was 146.62 lbs., with a standard
deviation of 0.07888. Subsequently, with the scale 18 resting on a
0.5'' carpet with 0.38'' pad underneath and an additional 0.5'' rug
on top of the carpet, the average measured weight was 146.62 lbs.,
with a standard deviation of 0.04216.
TABLE-US-00002 TABLE 2 Thin Scale Parts Throughout 0.125'' TILE
(lbs.) CARPET (lbs.) 146.7 146.7 146.7 146.7 146.6 146.6 146.6
146.6 146.6 146.6 146.6 146.6 146.5 146.6 146.7 146.6 146.5 146.6
146.7 146.6 0.07888 (stddev) 0.04216 (stddev) 146.62 (average)
146.62 (average)
[0059] Table 3 shows multiple weight measurements taken with an
off-the-shelf conventional electronic scale. As indicated in table
3, with the off-the-shelf conventional scale resting on the tile
floor, the average measured weight was 165.5571 lbs., with a
standard deviation of 0.20702. Subsequently, with the off-the-shelf
conventional scale resting on a 0.5'' carpet with 0.38'' pad
underneath and an additional 0.5'' rug on top of the carpet, the
average measured weight was 163.5143 lbs., with a standard
deviation of 0.13093.
TABLE-US-00003 TABLE 3 Off-The-Shelf Conventional Scale TILE (lbs.)
CARPET (lbs.) 165.9 163.5 165.5 163.4 165.8 163.7 165.4 163.6 165.5
163.6 165.4 163.5 165.4 163.3 -- 163.4 0.20702 (stddev) 0.13093
(stddev) 165.5571 (average) 163.5143 (average) 2.042857 (% of
1.249345 (% of difference) difference)
[0060] The summary in Table 4 is a comparative illustration of the
relative repeatability of each scale while resting either on a tile
floor or on a carpeted floor.
TABLE-US-00004 TABLE 4 SUMMARY OF DATA: TILE VS. TRIAL TILE STDDEV
CARPET STDDEV CARPET Heavy Scale Parts All 0.125'' Except Cell
Around the Load Cell 0.250'' 1 146.77 0.1159 146.72 0.1686 0.05 2
146.67 0.0823 146.72 0.1906 0.05 Thin Scale Parts All 0.125'' 1
146.62 0.0788 146.62 0.04216 0.00 Off-The-Shelf Conventional Scale
1 165.55 0.207 163.51 0.1309 2.04
[0061] The foregoing description was intended to provide a general
description of the overall structure of several embodiments of the
invention, along with a brief discussion of the specific components
of these embodiments of the invention. In operating the apparatus
10, an ambulatory patient utilizes the monitoring apparatus 10 to
obtain a measurement of a particular physiological parameter. For
example, an ambulatory patient suffering from chronic heart failure
will generally be required to monitor his or her weight as part of
in-home patient managing system. Accordingly, the patient measures
his or her weight by stepping onto the electronic scale 18,
integrally located within the base plate 12 of the monitoring
apparatus 10.
[0062] Referring now to FIG. 4, the modem 36 of the monitoring
apparatus 10 will only activate if the measured weight is within a
defined range such as +/-10 lbs, +/-10% or any selected
predetermined value of a previous weight measurement. The patient's
previous symptom free weight (dry weight) is stored in the memory
40. The dry weight is the patient's weight whenever diuretics are
properly adjusted for the patient, for example. This prevents false
activation of the modem 36 if a child, pet, or other person
accidentally steps onto the electronic scale 18.
[0063] Upon measuring the weight, the microprocessor system 24
determines whether it is within a defined, required range such as
+/-10 lbs. or +/-10% of a previously recorded weight stored in
memory 40. The monitoring apparatus 10 then initiates a call via
the modem 36 to the remote site 62. Communications is established
between the local monitoring apparatus 10 and the remote computer
32. In one embodiment of the invention, the patient's weight is
electronically transferred from the monitoring apparatus 10 at the
local site 58 to the remote computer 32 at the remote site 62. At
the remote site 62 the computer program compares the patient's
weight with the dry weight and wellness information and updates
various user screens. The program can also analyze the patient's
weight trend over the previous 1-21 days. If significant symptoms
and/or excessive weight changes are reported, the system alerts the
medical care provider who may provoke a change to the patient's
medication dosage, or establish further communication with the
patient such as placing a telephone to the patient. The
communication between the patient's location and the remote
location may be one way or two way communication depending on the
particular situation.
[0064] To establish the patient's overall condition, the patient is
prompted via the output device(s) 30 to answer questions regarding
various wellness parameters. An exemplary list of questions,
symptoms monitored and the related numerical score is provided in
Table 5 as follows:
TABLE-US-00005 TABLE 5 Health Check Score Question Symptom Value
Above Dry Weight? Fluid accumulation 10 Are you feeling short of
breath? Dyspnea 10 Did you awaken during the night Paroxysmal
nocturnal 5 short of breath? dyspnea Did you need extra pillows
last Congestion in the 5 night? lungs Are you coughing more than
usual? Congestion in the 3 lungs Are your ankles or feet swollen?
Pedal edema 5 Does your stomach feel bloated? Stomach edema 3 Do
you feel dizzy or lightheaded? Hypotension 5 Are you more tired
than usual? Fatigue 2 Are you taking your medication? Medication
compliance 7 Has your appetite decreased? Appetite 2 Are you
reducing your salt intake? Sodium intake 1 Did you exercise today?
Fitness 1
[0065] At the remote site 62 the medical professional caregiver
evaluates the overall score according to the wellness parameter
interrogation responses (as shown in Table 5). For example, if the
patient's total score is equal to or greater than 10, an exception
is issued and will either prompt an intervention by the medical
professional caregiver in administering medication, or prompt
taking further action in the medical care of the patient.
[0066] The output device(s) 30 varies based on the embodiment of
the invention. For example, the output device may be a synthetic
speech generator 33. As such, the wellness parameters are
communicated to the patient via the electronic synthetic speech
generator 33 in the form of audible speech. It will be appreciated
that electronic speech synthesizers are generally well known and
widely available. The speech synthesizer converts electronic data
to an understandable audible speech.
[0067] Accordingly, the patient responds by entering either "YES"
or "NO" responses into the input device 28, which may include for
example, an electronic keypad 29. However, in one embodiment of the
invention, the input device may also include a generic speech
recognition device such as those made by International Business
Machines (IBM), Dragon Systems, Inc. and other providers.
Accordingly, the patient replies to the interrogations merely by
speaking either "YES" or "NO" responses into the speech recognition
input device.
[0068] In embodiments of the invention that include electronic
display 31 as an output device 30, the interrogations as well as
the responses are displayed and/or scrolled across the display for
the patient to read. Generally, the electronic display will be
positioned such that it is viewable by the patient during the
information exchanging process between the patient and the remote
computer 32.
[0069] Upon uploading the information to the remote computer 32,
the medical professional caregiver may telephone the patient to
discuss, clarify or validate any particular wellness parameter or
physiological data point. Furthermore, the medical professional
caregiver may update the list of wellness parameter questions
listed in Table 5 from the remote site 62 over the two way
communication network 34. Modifications are transmitted from the
remote computer 32 via modem 35, over the communication network 34,
through modem 36 and to the monitoring apparatus 10. The modified
query list is then stored in the memory 40 of the microprocessor
system 24.
[0070] Thus, it will be appreciated that the previously described
versions of invention provide many advantages, including addressing
the needs in the medical profession for an apparatus and method
capable of monitoring and transmitting physiological and wellness
parameters of ambulatory patients to a remote site whereby a
medical professional caregiver can evaluate such physiological and
wellness parameters and make decisions regarding the patient's
treatment.
[0071] Also, it will be appreciated that the previously described
versions of invention provide other advantages, including
addressing the need for an apparatus for monitoring and
transmitting such physiological and wellness parameters that is
available in an easy to use portable integrated single unit.
[0072] Also, it will be appreciated that the previously described
versions of the invention provide still other advantages, including
addressing the need for medical professional caregivers to monitor
and manage the patient's condition to prevent the rehospitalization
of the patient, and to prevent the patient's condition from
deteriorating to the point where hospitalization may be
required.
[0073] Although the invention has been described in considerable
detail with reference to certain preferred versions thereof, other
versions are possible. For example a weight management and control
apparatus.
[0074] Therefore, the spirit and scope of the appended claims
should not be limited to the description of the preferred versions
contained herein.
* * * * *