U.S. patent application number 13/043434 was filed with the patent office on 2011-06-30 for transdermal portable alcohol monitor and methods for using such.
This patent application is currently assigned to BI Incorporated. Invention is credited to Larry T. Cooper, Donald A. Melton, Victor Rompa, Timothy D. Waters.
Application Number | 20110154887 13/043434 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 39740294 |
Filed Date | 2011-06-30 |
United States Patent
Application |
20110154887 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Cooper; Larry T. ; et
al. |
June 30, 2011 |
Transdermal Portable Alcohol Monitor and Methods for Using Such
Abstract
Various embodiments of the present invention provide alcohol
monitoring devices, and methods for using such. As one example, an
alcohol monitoring device is disclosed that includes a device body,
an alcohol sensor, and a liquid cartridge. The alcohol sensor is
associated with the device body, and relies on a liquid supply to
perform an alcohol measurement on a subject. The liquid cartridge
is replaceably coupled to the device body and provides the liquid
supply to the alcohol sensor.
Inventors: |
Cooper; Larry T.; (Longmont,
CO) ; Waters; Timothy D.; (Boulder, CO) ;
Melton; Donald A.; (Boulder, CO) ; Rompa; Victor;
(Westminster, CO) |
Assignee: |
BI Incorporated
|
Family ID: |
39740294 |
Appl. No.: |
13/043434 |
Filed: |
March 8, 2011 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
12041765 |
Mar 4, 2008 |
7930927 |
|
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13043434 |
|
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60893264 |
Mar 6, 2007 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
73/53.01 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61B 5/0002 20130101;
A61B 5/145 20130101; A61B 5/1112 20130101; A61B 5/6843 20130101;
A61B 5/681 20130101; A61B 5/14546 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
73/53.01 |
International
Class: |
G01N 33/487 20060101
G01N033/487 |
Claims
1. A monitoring device, wherein the system comprises: a multi-use
monitoring device, wherein the multi-use monitoring device
includes: a device body and a sensor housing extending away from
the device body; a location monitor disposed in the device body and
operable to identify a location of a subject wearing the multi-use
monitoring device; an alcohol sensor disposed in the sensor
housing, wherein the alcohol sensor detects an alcohol presence
near the subject wearing the multi-use monitoring device; and a
transmitter operable to communicate the alcohol usage and the
location.
2. The monitoring device of claim 1, wherein the alcohol sensor is
a transdermal alcohol sensor.
3. The monitoring device of claim 1, wherein the sensor housing is
connected to the device body via a force element.
4. The monitoring device of claim 3, wherein the force element is a
spring.
5. The monitoring device of claim 3, wherein the force element is a
torsion hinge.
6. The monitoring device of claim 3, wherein the force element is
operable to press the sensor housing toward the subject and away
from the device body.
7. The monitoring device of claim 3, wherein the force element is
operable to press the alcohol sensor toward the subject.
8. The monitoring device of claim 1, wherein the monitoring device
further comprises: a securing device operable to secure the device
body to the subject.
9. The monitoring device of claim 1, wherein the monitoring device
further includes: a proximity detector operable to detect whether
the device body is within a desired proximity of the subject.
10. The monitoring device of claim 1, wherein the device further
includes at least one tamper sensor, and wherein the at least one
tamper sensor is operable to detect unauthorized tampering with the
device.
11. A method for maintaining alcohol monitoring equipment, the
method comprising: providing a portable alcohol monitoring device,
the device comprising: a device body; an alcohol sensor, wherein
the alcohol sensor is associated with the device body, and wherein
the alcohol sensor relies on a liquid supply to perform an alcohol
measurement on a subject; and a liquid cartridge; wherein the
liquid cartridge is replaceably coupled to the device body and
provides the liquid supply to the alcohol sensor; removing a tamper
resistant hardware element, wherein the tamper resistant hardware
element is damaged; removing the liquid cartridge; replacing the
liquid cartridge; and replacing the tamper resistant hardware.
12. A method for deploying an alcohol monitoring device, the method
comprising: providing a portable alcohol monitoring device, the
portable alcohol monitoring device comprising: a device body and a
sensor housing extending away from the device body; an alcohol
sensor disposed in the sensor housing, wherein the alcohol sensor
detects an alcohol presence near the subject wearing the multi-use
monitoring device; a transmitter operable to communicate the
alcohol presence; and a securing device attached to the device
body; and securing the portable alcohol monitoring device to the
subject using the securing device such that a surface of the sensor
housing is in contact with the subject while an area of the device
body near the sensor housing is spaced apart from the subject.
13. The method of claim 12, wherein the alcohol sensor is a
transdermal alcohol sensor.
14. The method of claim 12, wherein the sensor housing is connected
to the device body via a force element.
15. The method of claim 14, wherein the force element is selected
from a group consisting of: a spring and a torsion hinge.
16. The method of claim 14, wherein the force element is operable
to press the sensor housing toward the subject and away from the
device body.
17. The method of claim 12, wherein the securing device is a
strap.
18. The method of claim 12, wherein the device further includes at
least one tamper sensor, and wherein the at least one tamper sensor
is operable to detect unauthorized tampering with the device.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] The present application is a continuation of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 12/041,765 entitled "Transdermal Portable
Alcohol Monitor and Methods for Using Such" and filed Mar. 4, 2008
by Cooper et al. The aforementioned reference claims priority to
(i.e., is a non-provisional of) U.S. Pat. App. No. 60/893,264
entitled "Systems and Methods for Alcohol Detection", and filed
Mar. 6, 2007 by Cooper et al. The entirety of both of the
aforementioned references is incorporated herein by reference for
all purposes.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention is related to tracking devices, and in
particular to tracking devices capable of monitoring alcohol
consumption in human subjects.
[0003] Large numbers of individuals are currently housed in
prisons. This represents a significant cost to society both in
terms of housing expense and wasted productivity. To address this
concern, house arrest systems have been developed for use by less
violent offenders. This allows the less violent offender to be
monitored outside of a traditional prison system and allows the
offender an opportunity to work and interact to at least some
degree in society. The same approach is applied to paroled
prisoners allowing for a monitored transition between a prison
atmosphere and returning to society.
[0004] In some cases, it is not practical to parole an offender
because they suffer from an alcohol addiction that may lead to the
same activity that lead to their original incarceration. Present
approaches to monitor alcohol consumption costly, time consuming
and in some cases, impractical. In other cases, the terms of an
individual's parole may include a requirement that the individual
abstain from the use of alcohol, but monitoring adherence to such
terms is costly and time consuming. In yet other circumstances, it
may be possible that an individual could avoid incarceration
altogether if they agree to abstain from the use of alcohol. Again,
assuring adherence to such terms is at best costly and time
consuming.
[0005] Giner Inc. of Newton, Mass. has developed a product that
includes a transdermal alcohol monitor with a strap allowing it to
be placed around the leg of an individual being monitored. Such an
approach offers some hope in portable alcohol monitoring.
Unfortunately, the strap has to be maintained relatively tight to
assure reasonable reading. Such is not always possible due to the
movement of the individual being monitored. In some cases, such
movement reduced the accuracy of any readings and in some cases
results in an inability to rely on the readings. Further, such a
device is not easily serviceable and may be susceptible to
tampering by the monitored individual.
[0006] Thus, for at least the aforementioned reasons, there exists
a need in the art for more advanced approaches, devices and systems
for detecting alcohol usage by an individual.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] The present invention is related to tracking devices, and in
particular to tracking devices capable of monitoring alcohol
consumption in human subjects.
[0008] Some embodiments of the present invention provide portable
alcohol monitoring devices. Such devices include a device body, an
alcohol sensor, and a liquid cartridge. The alcohol sensor is
associated with the device body, and relies on a liquid supply to
perform an alcohol measurement on a subject. The liquid cartridge
is replaceably coupled to the device body and provides the liquid
supply to the alcohol sensor. In some instances of the
aforementioned embodiments, the liquid cartridge is filled with
water. In one particular instance, the water is distilled,
de-ionized water. The liquid cartridge may be, but is not limited
to, a cylindrical cartridge, or a cubical cartridge.
[0009] In some instances of the aforementioned embodiments, the
alcohol monitoring devices further include a securing device that
is operable to secure the device body to the subject. In various
instances of the aforementioned embodiments, the alcohol sensor is
incorporated in the device body, and a force element presses the
alcohol sensor toward the subject. As one example, the force
element may be a spring and the alcohol sensor may be coupled to
the device body via a bellows. In other instances, the device body
includes an electronics body and a sensor body with the sensor body
encasing the alcohol sensor and being attached to the electronics
body via a torsion hinge. In such cases, the torsion hinge operates
to press the alcohol sensor toward the subject.
[0010] In some instances of the aforementioned embodiments, the
liquid cartridge is coupled to the body device using tamper
resistant hardware. In some cases, the tamper resistant hardware is
designed such that it is damaged upon replacement of the liquid
cartridge. As just some examples, the tamper resistant hardware may
be, but is not limited to, a tamper resistant cap, and a tamper
resistant screw. In particular instances of the aforementioned
embodiments, the device further includes a proximity detector that
is operable to detect whether the device body is within a desired
proximity of the subject. Further, in some instances of the
aforementioned embodiments, the device further includes at least
one tamper sensor that is operable to detect unauthorized tampering
with the device.
[0011] Other embodiments of the present invention provide portable
alcohol monitoring devices that include a device body, an alcohol
sensor that is associated with the device body, a securing device
that is operable to secure the device body to the subject, and a
force element that is operable to press the alcohol sensor toward
the subject.
[0012] Yet other embodiments of the present invention provide
methods for maintaining alcohol monitoring equipment. Such methods
include providing a portable alcohol monitoring device having a
device body, an alcohol sensor, and a liquid cartridge. The alcohol
sensor is associated with the device body, and relies on a liquid
supply to perform an alcohol measurement on a subject. The liquid
cartridge is replaceably coupled to the device body and provides
the liquid supply to the alcohol sensor. The methods further
include removing a tamper resistant hardware element, and in doing
so damaging the tamper resistant hardware element. Further, the
methods include removing and replacing the liquid cartridge, and
replacing the tamper resistant hardware. In some cases, the
replacing the liquid cartridge includes refilling an existing
liquid cartridge and replacing it, while in other cases replacing
the liquid cartridge includes using a different liquid
cartridge.
[0013] This summary provides only a general outline of some
embodiments according to the present invention. Many other objects,
features, advantages and other embodiments of the present invention
will become more fully apparent from the following detailed
description, the appended claims and the accompanying drawings and
figures.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0014] A further understanding of the various embodiments of the
present invention may be realized by reference to the figures which
are described in remaining portions of the specification. In the
figures, similar reference numerals are used throughout several
drawings to refer to similar components. In some instances, a
sub-label consisting of a lower case letter is associated with a
reference numeral to denote one of multiple similar components.
When reference is made to a reference numeral without specification
to an existing sub-label, it is intended to refer to all such
multiple similar components.
[0015] FIGS. 1a-1d depict an alcohol monitoring device in
accordance with various embodiments of the present invention;
[0016] FIGS. 2a-2c depict another alcohol monitoring device in
accordance with different embodiments of the present invention;
[0017] FIGS. 3a-3b depict yet another alcohol monitoring device in
accordance with yet other embodiments of the present invention;
[0018] FIG. 4 is a flow diagram depicting a process for servicing
an alcohol monitoring device in accordance with some embodiments of
the present invention; and
[0019] FIG. 5 depicts the block diagram of a monitoring device
capable of monitoring subject location as well as alcohol
usage.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0020] The present invention is related to tracking devices, and in
particular to tracking devices capable of monitoring alcohol
consumption in human subjects.
[0021] Some embodiments of the present invention provide portable
alcohol monitoring devices. Such devices include a device body, an
alcohol sensor, and a liquid cartridge. As sued herein, the phrase
"device body" is used in its broadest sense to mean a portion of a
device including hardware for performing one or more functions. In
some cases, the device body may be a case holding one or more
functional elements, while in other cases, the device body includes
two or more cases with each holding functional elements. In the
aforementioned embodiments, the alcohol sensor is associated with
the device body, and relies on a liquid supply to perform an
alcohol measurement on a subject. The liquid cartridge is
replaceably coupled to the device body and provides the liquid
supply to the alcohol sensor. As used herein, the phrase "liquid
cartridge" is used in its broadest sense to mean any container
capable of holding a liquid.
[0022] In some instances of the aforementioned embodiments, the
alcohol monitoring devices further include a securing device that
is operable to secure the device body to the subject. In various
instances of the aforementioned embodiments, the alcohol sensor is
incorporated in the device body, and a force element presses the
alcohol sensor toward the subject. As used herein, the phrase
"force element" is used in its broadest sense to mean an element
capable of providing some level of force to an object. As one
example, the force element may be a spring and the alcohol sensor
may be coupled to the device body via a bellows. As another
example, the force element may be a torsion spring.
[0023] In some instances of the aforementioned embodiments, the
liquid cartridge is filled with water. In one particular instance,
the water is distilled, de-ionized water. The liquid cartridge may
be, but is not limited to, a cylindrical cartridge, or a cubical
cartridge. As used herein, the phrase "cubicle cartridge" is used
in its broadest sense to mean any container having the general
shape of a cube where the length of the container sides are not
necessarily equal. Similarly, the phrase "cylindrical cartridge" is
used in its broadest sense to mean any container having he general
shape of a cylinder.
[0024] In some instances of the aforementioned embodiments, the
liquid cartridge is coupled to the body device using tamper
resistant hardware. As used herein, the phrase "tamper resistant
hardware" is used in its broadest sense to mean any hardware
element that provides some indication of tampering when it has been
tampered with. In some cases, the tamper resistant hardware is
designed such that it is damaged upon replacement of the liquid
cartridge. Such damage may be in some cases, irreparable damage. As
just some examples, the tamper resistant hardware may be, but is
not limited to, a tamper resistant cap, and a tamper resistant
screw.
[0025] Turning to FIG. 1a, an alcohol monitoring device 100 is
depicted in accordance with various embodiments of the present
invention. Alcohol monitoring device 100 includes a body 105 that
includes various monitoring and/or tracking circuitry. Such
circuitry may include, but is not limited to, alcohol detection
circuitry, location circuitry and/or tamper circuitry. The alcohol
detection circuitry may include a fuel cell based on PEM sensor
technology available from Giner Inc. of Newton, Mass., or any other
alcohol detection sensor known in the art. The monitoring circuitry
may include location monitoring circuitry as is known in the art,
or other monitoring circuitry used to determine attributes and/or
location of a monitored individual. In addition, the monitoring
circuitry may include transmission and/ore reception circuitry as
is known in the art for transmitting information from alcohol
monitoring device 100, and receiving information at alcohol
monitoring device 100. The information transmitted by alcohol
monitoring device may include an indication of whether a monitored
individual has been consuming alcohol and to what level the
consumption has progressed. The information may be transmitted to a
central monitoring station where it is monitored. Based on the
disclosure provided herein, one of ordinary skill in the art will
recognize a variety of information that may be transmitted to/from
alcohol monitoring device, a variety of uses of such information,
and a variety of transmission methods and protocols that may be
utilized in accordance with different embodiments of the present
invention. The tamper circuitry may include any circuitry known in
the art that are capable of determining whether any interference
with alcohol monitoring device 100. Such interference may include,
but is not limited to, blocking the alcohol sensor, interfering
with the transmission of information to/from alcohol monitoring
device 100, and/or cutting an attachment securing alcohol
monitoring device 100 to the human subject. Such tamper sensors may
include, but are not limited to, a proximity sensor that is able to
determine whether alcohol monitoring device 100 is within
reasonable proximity of the skin of the monitored individual. Based
on the disclosure provided herein, one of ordinary skill in the art
will recognize a variety of tamper sensors that may be used in
conjunction with the various embodiments of the present invention.
The various sensors included in alcohol measurement device 100 may
include, but are not limited to, blockage sensor indicating that no
gas is being allowed to reach an included alcohol sensor, a
temperature sensor, a proximity sensor indicating that alcohol
measurement device is within a defined range of the monitored
individual, a skin probe capable of measuring skin resistance as an
indication of whether alcohol measurement device is still being
worn by the monitored individual, and/or the like. Based on the
disclosure provided herein, one of ordinary skill in the art will
recognize a variety of other sensors that may be used in relation
to different embodiments of the present invention.
[0026] Body 105 is attachable to a human subject using a strap 130.
Strap 130 is attachable using some sort of buckle or other
connector as are known in the art. In some cases, strap 130
includes a continuity detector (not shown) imbedded therein. In one
particular embodiment of the present invention, the continuity
detector is an electrical conductor extending around strap 130 and
making a connection in body 105. As such, when strap 130 is either
unbuckled or cut, the electrical conductor is broken and the break
is detected by circuitry within body 105. In other particular
embodiments of the present invention, the continuity detector is a
fiber optic conductor that may similarly be used to determine
whether strap 130 has been unbuckled or cut. Based on the
disclosure provided herein, one of ordinary skill in the art will
appreciate a variety of straps and associated securing devices that
may be used in accordance with different embodiments of the present
invention to secure body 105 to a monitored individual. In one
particular embodiment, strap 130 includes an outer case with an
imbedded fiber optic continuity conductor and banding for added
strength.
[0027] Body 105 includes an alcohol sensor 110 that is maintained
at a controlled distance from the monitored individual's skin by a
dermal seal 125 and a telescoping housing 120. The combination of
dermal seal 125 and telescoping housing 120 create a reasonably
stable gas region 127 between alcohol sensor 110 and the monitored
individual's skin. Dermal seal 125 may be, for example, a set of
foam pads that are capable of creating a reasonable seal with the
skin of a monitored individual, and yet are comfortable to the
monitored individual. In particular instances, the foam pads are
made of closed cell foam that allows for positioning and ergonomic
fit. Based on the disclosure provided herein, one of ordinary skill
in the art will recognize other materials that may be used to form
dermal seal 125 in accordance with the various embodiments of the
present invention. Telescoping housing 120 is operable to press
alcohol sensor 110 near the skin of the monitored individual.
Because of this, alcohol sensor 110 is maintained at a reasonably
constant distance from the monitored individual's skin even when
the individual is moving. This promotes better readings from
alcohol sensor 110 without the need to tighten strap 130 beyond a
comfortable point. As more fully described below, in one embodiment
of the present invention, telescoping housing 120 includes an
expandable bellows 122 that allows for movement of alcohol sensor
110 relative to body 105, and a spring (not shown) that presses
alcohol sensor 110 and dermal seal 125 away from body 105 and
toward the human subject's skin. In particular instances of the
aforementioned embodiments, expandable bellows 122 is made of
rubber, while in other instances it is formed of some type of
flexible plastic. Based on the disclosure provided herein, one of
ordinary skill in the art will recognize a variety of materials
that may be used to create expandable bellows 122 in accordance
with various embodiments of the present invention.
[0028] Body 105 also includes a water tight compartment 140 that
includes a replaceable liquid cartridge (not shown) and electronics
(not shown) for operating alcohol monitoring device 100. Water
tight compartment 140 is accessible by removing temper resistant
screws 142. In some embodiments of the present invention, tamper
resistant screws 142 may require a special tool for removal to
minimize the possibility that a monitored individual will open
water tight compartment 140 and attempt to interfere or otherwise
control the operation of alcohol monitoring device 100. In other
embodiments of the present invention, tamper resistant screws 142
are only one way devices allowing for the closure of water tight
compartment 140. Opening water tight compartment 140 requires the
destruction of tamper resistant screws 142. When water tight
compartment 140 is to be resealed, a new pair of tamper resistant
screws is required. In this way, any unauthorized opening of water
tight compartment 140 will be readily apparent. In some cases, the
aforementioned approach may be combined with a sensor (not shown)
that indicates that water tight compartment 140 is open. Thus, when
water tight compartment 140 is opened an error message may be
prepared and transmitted to a central monitoring location by
alcohol monitoring device 100. This would allow for detection of
any tampering within a reasonable period of when the tampering
occurred, and additional scrutiny of the monitored individuals
behavior during that period.
[0029] Turning to FIG. 1b, a cut away view of alcohol monitoring
device 100 is presented. Of interest, expandable bellows 122 are
shown as having a serpentine shape that allows for extension away
from and toward body 105. Also shown is a spring 150 that provides
the force for moving alcohol sensor 110 toward the skin of the
monitored individual. In addition, a fiber optic conductor 132 is
shown extending through strap 130. The interior of water tight
compartment 140 is shown with an area 144 to hold a replaceable
liquid cartridge (not shown), and an area 146 for electronic
circuitry (not shown) for controlling the various operations of
alcohol monitoring device 100. A bulk head 148 provides an area for
spring 150 to press against and forms the outer wall of water tight
compartment 140.
[0030] Turning to FIG. 1c, an exploded view of alcohol monitoring
device 100 is presented. As shown, a battery 180 is connected to
body 105 using a removable connector plate 182. Battery 180
provides power to operate alcohol monitoring device 100. A
replaceable liquid cartridge 160 is placed in water tight
compartment 140 and held in place by an outer plate 162 that is
held in place by tamper resistant screws 142. In one embodiment of
the present invention, liquid cartridge 160 is a plastic container
that includes a supply of water used to operate alcohol sensor 110.
Use of such a liquid cartridge allows for easy replenishment of
water. In some cases, the water is distilled water that is not
always readily available in the field. By using such a replaceable
liquid cartridge, quick and easy replenishment of any desired
liquid is rendered more manageable. A feed line 164 allows for
dispersing liquid from liquid cartridge 160 to alcohol sensor 110.
In some cases, feed line 164 is implemented as a wick capable of
transporting a defined saturation of liquid.
[0031] An electronic circuit board 170 holds electronics
responsible for controlling the various operations of alcohol
monitoring device 100, and is connected in water tight compartment
140. A case cover 194 and bulk head 148 separates water tight
compartment 140 from alcohol sensor 110. Spring 150 presses alcohol
sensor 110 away from body 105 and toward the skin of the monitored
individual. A sensor carriage 196 captures alcohol sensor 110 and
allows it to move in and out and stay within a desired range of the
monitor individual's skin. Expandable bellows 122 contact dermal
seal 125 that includes foam pads 198 on opposite sides.
[0032] Turning to FIG. 1d, an alternative embodiment of a body 101
that may be used in place of body 105 is depicted. As shown, body
101 includes an opening in which a spring 151 is placed. Spring 151
is used similar to spring 150 to press an alcohol sensor (not
shown) away from body 101 and toward the skin of the monitored
individual. A cylindrical liquid cartridge 161 may be placed inside
of spring 151. One end of cylindrical cartridge 161 includes a wick
that assures a defined range of moisture saturation in proximity of
the alcohol sensor. Cylindrical cartridge 161 is designed to be
replaceable in the field. In one embodiment of the present
invention, cylindrical cartridge 161 is a plastic container that
includes a supply of water used to operate alcohol sensor 110. Use
of such a replaceable cartridge allows for easy replenishment of
water. In some cases, the water is distilled water that is not
always readily available in the field. By using such a replaceable
liquid cartridge, quick and easy replenishment of any desired
liquid is rendered more manageable.
[0033] Spring 150 and cylindrical cartridge 161 are held in place
by tamper resistant cap 185. Tamper resistant cap 185 is installed
by placing it onto body 101 over spring 150 and cylindrical
cartridge 161 and turned a quarter turn. When initially pressed
onto body 101, tamper resistant cap 185 causes a flat spring 187 to
press inward. Upon turning tamper resistant cap 185, it locks into
body 101 with flat spring 187 extending away from body 101 into a
void on tamper resistant cap 185. In the extended condition, flat
spring 187 precludes twisting tamper resistant cap 185 to open body
101. Thus, the only way to access cylindrical cartridge 161 is to
break tamper resistant cap 185. Thus, any unauthorized access to
body 101 will be readily apparent. When replacing cylindrical
cartridge 161 with a full cartridge, tamper resistant cap 185 is
broken and a new cylindrical cartridge 161 is inserted in place of
the replaced cartridge. A new tamper resistant cap 185 is then
installed.
[0034] Turning to FIG. 2a, an alcohol monitoring device 200 is
depicted in accordance with various embodiments of the present
invention. Alcohol monitoring device 200 includes a body 205 that
includes various monitoring and/or tracking circuitry. Such
circuitry may include, but is not limited to, alcohol detection
circuitry, location circuitry and/or tamper circuitry. The alcohol
detection circuitry may include a fuel cell based on PEM sensor
technology available from Giner Inc. of Newton, Mass., or any other
alcohol detection sensor known in the art. The monitoring circuitry
may include location monitoring circuitry as is known in the art,
or other monitoring circuitry used to determine attributes and/or
location of a monitored individual. In addition, the monitoring
circuitry may include transmission and/ore reception circuitry as
is known in the art for transmitting information from alcohol
monitoring device 200, and receiving information at alcohol
monitoring device 200. The tamper circuitry may include any
circuitry known in the art that are capable of determining whether
any interference with alcohol monitoring device 200.
[0035] Body 205 is attachable to a human subject using a strap 230.
Strap 230 is attachable using some sort of buckle or other
connector as are known in the art. In some cases, strap 230
includes a continuity detector (e.g., either an electrical
conductor or optical conductor) imbedded therein. As such, when
strap 230 is either unbuckled or cut, the conductor is broken and
the break is detected by circuitry within body 205. In one
particular embodiment, strap 230 includes an outer case with an
imbedded fiber optic continuity conductor and banding for added
strength.
[0036] Body 205 includes an alcohol sensor body 222 and an
electronics body 224. Electronics body 224 houses a battery and
electronic circuitry responsible for the various operations of
alcohol monitoring device 200. Alcohol sensor body 222 holds a
sensor housing 225 that articulates to stay in contact with the
skin of a monitored individual. In some cases, alcohol sensor body
222 may include a spring and an expandable bellows similar to that
discussed above in relation to alcohol monitoring device 100.
Alcohol sensor body 222 operates to hold an alcohol sensor 210
within a defined range of the skin of a monitored individual. This
assures that more accurate readings are possible.
[0037] Alcohol sensor body 222 is held in relation to electronics
body 224 by a support bracket 235 connected via torsion hinges 236
on either side. Torsion hinges 236 operate to force alcohol sensor
body 222 toward the center of strap 230, thus causing alcohol
sensor 210 to be disposed nearer the skin of the monitored
individual. In one particular embodiment of the present invention,
torsion hinges 236 are spring loaded hinges providing only a
minimal amount of pressure sufficient to keep sensor body 222 in
contact the appropriate skin.
[0038] Turning to FIG. 2b, an exploded view of alcohol monitoring
device 200 is provided. In particular, support bracket 235
including torsion hinges 236 is shown disconnected from both
alcohol sensor body 222 and electronics body 224. In addition, a
tamper resistant cap 272 is removed from electronics body 224
revealing a battery 270. Tamper resistant cap 272 is installed by
placing it onto electronics body 224 over battery 270 and turned a
quarter turn. Tamper resistant cap 272 may be installed over a flat
spring similar to that discussed above in relation to tamper
resistant cap 185. Such an approach requires damaging tamper
resistant cap 272 whenever it is removed rendering any tampering
evident. Alternatively, or in addition, tamper resistant cap 272
may require a specialized tool for removal to minimize the
possibility that a monitored individual will tamper with alcohol
monitoring device 200. Further, in some cases, the aforementioned
approaches may be combined with a sensor (not shown) that indicates
that tamper resistant cap 272 has been removed. Thus, when tamper
resistant cap 272 is removed, an error message may be prepared and
transmitted to a central monitoring location by alcohol monitoring
device 200. This would allow for detection of any tampering within
a reasonable period of when the tampering occurred, and additional
scrutiny of the monitored individuals behavior during that
period.
[0039] Turning to FIG. 2c, an exploded view of alcohol sensor body
222 is shown. In this embodiment, alcohol sensor body 222 includes
an outer casing 226 into which alcohol sensor 210 is placed and
secured therein using a face plate 225 that doubles as a dermal
seal. In some cases, dermal seal 225 is made of a plastic material
sturdy enough to maintain alcohol sensor 210 in place and pliable
enough when placed in relation to human skin to render a reasonable
seal. Based on the disclosure provided herein, one of ordinary
skill in the art will recognize a variety of materials that may be
used to create dermal seal 225 in accordance with different
embodiments of the present invention.
[0040] Outer casing 226 additionally houses a replaceable liquid
cartridge 228 that is maintained in place by a tamper resistant cap
285. A wick or liquid feed mechanism traverses an inner wall 228 of
outer casing to allow liquid from liquid cartridge 228 to reach
alcohol sensor 210. In one embodiment of the present invention,
replaceable liquid cartridge 228 is a plastic container that
includes a supply of water used to operate alcohol sensor 210. Use
of such a liquid cartridge allows for easy replenishment of water.
In some cases, the water is distilled water that is not always
readily available in the field. By using such a replaceable liquid
cartridge, quick and easy replenishment of any desired liquid is
rendered more manageable.
[0041] Tamper resistant cap 285 is installed by placing it onto
outer casing 226 over liquid cartridge 228 and turned a quarter
turn. Tamper resistant cap 285 may be installed over a flat spring
similar to that discussed above in relation to tamper resistant cap
185. Such an approach requires damaging tamper resistant cap 285
whenever it is removed rendering any tampering evident.
Alternatively, or in addition, tamper resistant cap 285 may require
a specialized tool for removal to minimize the possibility that a
monitored individual will tamper with alcohol monitoring device
200. Further, in some cases, the aforementioned approaches may be
combined with a sensor (not shown) that indicates that tamper
resistant cap 285 has been removed. Thus, when tamper resistant cap
285 is removed, an error message may be prepared and transmitted to
a central monitoring location by alcohol monitoring device 200.
This would allow for detection of any tampering within a reasonable
period of when the tampering occurred, and additional scrutiny of
the monitored individuals behavior during that period.
[0042] Turning to FIGS. 3a-3b, two views of another alcohol
monitoring device 300 is depicted in accordance with yet other
embodiments of the present invention. As shown, alcohol monitoring
device 300 includes an alcohol sensor 310 that is maintained a
desired distance from the skin of a monitored individual by a
dermal seal 325. Alcohol sensor 310 is maintained in proximity to
the skin though use of a flexible sub-strap 335 that is more
flexible than a main strap 330. Flexible sub-strap 335 is attached
to a sensor assembly including alcohol sensor 310 and dermal seal
325. This allows alcohol sensor 310 to be maintained near the skin
of the monitored individual without requiring that the entire
alcohol monitoring device 300 be maintained in the same proximity.
This allows for greater comfort and improved alcohol measurement
results.
[0043] Turning to FIG. 4, a flow diagram 400 depicts a process for
servicing an alcohol monitoring device in accordance with some
embodiments of the present invention. Following flow diagram 400, a
full liquid cartridge is initially installed in an alcohol
measuring device (block 405). This process may include, for
example, inserting a new liquid cartridge into an opening of the
alcohol monitoring device designed to hold the cartridge. Such a
liquid cartridge may include, for example, a supply of distilled,
de-ionized water that is designed to support operation of the
alcohol monitoring device for a desired range of time. Inclusion of
a larger cartridge allows for greater extension of device operation
between maintenance intervals.
[0044] Once the liquid cartridge is installed (block 405), tamper
resistant hardware is installed over the liquid cartridge to hold
it in place (block 410). This may include, but is not limited to,
installing a plate using tamper resistant screws or covering the
opening through which the liquid cartridge is inserted using a
tamper resistant cap. Further, it may include turning on a sensor
that indicates that a tamper has occurred if such circuitry is
available. The alcohol monitoring device may then be deployed
(block 415). This may include securing the alcohol measuring device
to a monitored individual.
[0045] During deployment, it may be determined whether the liquid
in the installed liquid cartridge is low (block 420). This may
include, for example, determining that the installed liquid sensor
has been in for a certain time period and that it needs to be
replaced. In other cases, the alcohol monitoring device may be able
to detect when the liquid in the liquid cartridge is low. In such a
case, a sensor message may be transmitted to a central monitoring
system. In either case, where it is determined that the liquid
level is potentially or actually low, the alcohol monitoring device
is serviced. Such service may include summoning the monitored
individual to a prescribed location where the device is serviced.
This may be a scheduled service time corresponding, for example, to
a visit with a parole officer. Alternatively, a technician or
parole officer may visit the monitored individual and service the
alcohol monitoring device in situ. Use of a cartridge based
approach to the liquid reservoir makes such servicing possible.
[0046] The servicing includes removing the tamper resistant
hardware holding the liquid cartridge in place (block 425). This
may include destroying part of the hardware which will need to be
replaced with new parts. A new liquid cartridge is then inserted in
place of the removed liquid cartridge rendered accessible by
removing the tamper resistant hardware (block 430), and replacement
tamper resistant hardware is installed to hold the replacement
liquid cartridge in place (block 435).
[0047] Turning to FIG. 5, a tracking and alcohol monitoring system
500 is depicted in accordance with some embodiments of the present
invention. Tracking and monitoring system 500 includes a
multi-purpose monitoring device 520 that is capable of both
tracking an individual and monitoring alcohol consumption of the
individual. This device can be incorporated in the electronics of
the devices of FIGS. 1, 2 and 3. As shown, multi-purpose monitoring
device 520 includes a GPS receiver 522 that is capable of receiving
GPS information from GPS satellites 345, 346, and 347 respectively.
GPS receiver 322 is useful for determining physical locations, i.e.
whenever GPS receiver 322 is powered-on, and also as long as
receiving sufficient GPS satellites signal transmissions.
[0048] Multi-purpose monitoring device 520 includes a device ID 521
that may be maintained in a memory 525, and thus is accessible by a
controller 527. Controller 57 is able to interact with GPS receiver
522 and memory 525 at times for storing and generating records of
successively determined GPS locations. Controller 527 may be, but
is not limited to, a microprocessor, microcontroller or other
device known in the art that is capable of executing software or
firmware instructions. Memory 525 may be any type of memory known
in the art such as, for example, a EEPROM or RAM memory.
[0049] Controller 527 of subject device 520 at times functions in
conjunction with a cellular transceiver 528 to send and receive
data and signals through cellular communication system 590. This
link at times is useful for passing information and/or control
signals between a central monitoring system (not shown) and
multi-purpose monitoring device 520. The information transmitted
may include, but is not limited to, location information, alcohol
information, and information about the status of multi-purpose
monitoring device 520. Based on the disclosure provided herein, one
of ordinary skill in the art will recognize a variety of
information that may be transferred via cellular communication
system 590.
[0050] Various embodiments of multi-purpose monitoring device 520
include a variety of sensors capable of determining the status of
multi-purpose monitoring device 520, and of the individual
associated therewith. For example, a status monitor 526 may include
one or more of the following subcomponents: a set of shielding
sensors 529 that are capable of determining whether subject device
is being shielded from receiving GPS signals and/or if GPS jamming
is ongoing, a set of device health indicators 530, a tamper sensor
531 capable of determining whether unauthorized access to subject
device 520 has occurred or whether subject device 520 has been
removed from an associated human subject, a motion/proximity sensor
532 capable of determining whether subject device 520 is moving
and/or whether it is within proximity of an individual associated
with multi-purpose monitoring device 520, and/or an alcohol sensor
533 such as that described herein. Based on the disclosure provided
herein, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize a variety
of shielding sensors, a variety of device health transducers and
indicators, a variety of tamper sensors, various different types of
motion sensors, different proximity to human sensors, and various
human body physical measurement sensors or transducers that may be
incorporated into subject device 520 according to various different
instances and/or embodiments of the present invention. In some
cases, transmission of alcohol data is done at one frequency, and
house arrest information is transmitted at another frequency. In
one particular embodiment of the present invention, house arrest
information (i.e., location information) is transmitted using a 300
MHz-320 MHz, and alcohol information is transmitted using a 902
MHz-928 MHZ band. The higher frequency band allows for transmission
of substantial amounts of information, while the lower frequency
band allows for transmission of smaller amounts of data.
[0051] In conclusion, the present invention provides for novel
systems, devices, and methods for monitoring alcohol consumption by
human subjects. While detailed descriptions of one or more
embodiments of the invention have been given above, various
alternatives, modifications, and equivalents will be apparent to
those skilled in the art without varying from the spirit of the
invention. Therefore, the above description should not be taken as
limiting the scope of the invention, which is defined by the
appended claims.
* * * * *