U.S. patent application number 14/065226 was filed with the patent office on 2014-02-20 for adaptive calibration system for spectrophotometric measurements.
This patent application is currently assigned to CERCACOR LABORATORIES, INC.. The applicant listed for this patent is Cercacor Laboratories, Inc.. Invention is credited to Massi Joe E. Kiani, Marcelo Lamego, Sean Merritt.
Application Number | 20140051953 14/065226 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 49448686 |
Filed Date | 2014-02-20 |
United States Patent
Application |
20140051953 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Lamego; Marcelo ; et
al. |
February 20, 2014 |
ADAPTIVE CALIBRATION SYSTEM FOR SPECTROPHOTOMETRIC MEASUREMENTS
Abstract
This disclosure describes, among other features, systems and
methods for customizing calibration curves, parameter algorithms,
and the like to individual users. An initial calibration curve
generated based on a population can be used as a starting point in
an algorithm for measuring a physiological parameter such as
glucose. The measurement algorithm can determine one or more
initial measurement values for a user based on the initial
calibration curve. In certain embodiments, one or more alternative
measurements, such as invasive or minimally invasive measurements,
can periodically or sporadically be input into the measurement
algorithm. The algorithm can use the alternative measurements to
adapt the calibration curve to the individual. As a result,
measurements for the individual can more accurately reflect the
individual's actual parameter values.
Inventors: |
Lamego; Marcelo; (Coto De
Caza, CA) ; Merritt; Sean; (Lake Forest, CA) ;
Kiani; Massi Joe E.; (Laguna Niguel, CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Cercacor Laboratories, Inc. |
Irvine |
CA |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
CERCACOR LABORATORIES, INC.
IRVINE
CA
|
Family ID: |
49448686 |
Appl. No.: |
14/065226 |
Filed: |
October 28, 2013 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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12891428 |
Sep 27, 2010 |
8571618 |
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14065226 |
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61246288 |
Sep 28, 2009 |
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61257722 |
Nov 3, 2009 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
600/316 ;
600/476 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61B 5/7221 20130101;
A61B 5/1455 20130101; A61B 5/1495 20130101; A61B 5/14546 20130101;
A61B 5/746 20130101; A61B 5/14503 20130101; A61B 5/14532 20130101;
A61B 5/742 20130101; A61B 5/14551 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
600/316 ;
600/476 |
International
Class: |
A61B 5/00 20060101
A61B005/00; A61B 5/145 20060101 A61B005/145; A61B 5/1495 20060101
A61B005/1495; A61B 5/1455 20060101 A61B005/1455 |
Claims
1. A method of determining whether to recommend an alternative
measurement of a physiological parameter, the method comprising:
obtaining a noninvasive measurement of a physiological parameter
using an optical sensor; receiving an alternative measurement of
the physiological parameter, the alternative measurement being
generated by an alternative sensor; analyzing the noninvasive and
alternative measurements by a processor to determine whether a
condition has been met; and in response to the condition being met,
outputting an indication that a new measurement should be obtained
from the alternative sensor.
2. The method of claim 1, wherein analyzing the noninvasive and
alternative measurements to determine whether a condition has been
met comprises determining whether a difference between the
noninvasive and alternative measurements exceeds a threshold.
3. The method of claim 1, wherein analyzing the noninvasive and
alternative measurements to determine whether a condition has been
met comprises determining a predetermined amount of time has
passed.
4. The method of claim 1, wherein the indication comprises an
alarm.
5. The method of claim 1, further comprising displaying the
alternative measurement.
6. The method of claim 1, wherein the alternative source comprises
an invasive monitor.
7. The method of claim 1, wherein the alternative source comprises
a minimally-invasive monitor.
8. The method of claim 1, wherein the physiological parameter is
glucose.
Description
RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a divisional of U.S. application Ser.
No. 12/891,428, filed Sep. 27, 2010, entitled "Adaptive Calibration
System for Spectrophotometric Measurements," which claims priority
from U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/246,288 filed Sep.
28, 2009, entitled "Adaptive Calibration System for
Spectrophotometric Measurements," and from U.S. Provisional Patent
Application No. 61/257,722, filed Nov. 3, 2009, entitled "Adaptive
Calibration System for Spectrophotometric Measurements." Each of
the foregoing applications are hereby incorporated by reference in
their entirety.
BACKGROUND
[0002] The standard of care in caregiver environments includes
patient monitoring through spectroscopic analysis using, for
example, a pulse oximeter. Devices capable of spectroscopic
analysis generally include a light source(s) transmitting optical
radiation into or reflecting off a measurement site, such as, body
tissue carrying pulsing blood. After attenuation by tissue and
fluids of the measurement site, one or more photodetection devices
detect the attenuated light and output one or more detector signals
responsive to the detected attenuated light. A processor can
process the one or more detector signal and output a measurement
reflective of a blood constituent of interest, such as glucose,
oxygen, methemoglobin, total hemoglobin, among other physiological
parameters.
[0003] In noninvasive devices and methods, a sensor is often
adapted to position an appendage such as a finger proximate a light
source and a light detector. For example, noninvasive sensors often
include a clothespin-shaped housing that includes a contoured bed
conforming generally to the shape of a finger.
SUMMARY OF CERTAIN EMBODIMENTS
[0004] This disclosure describes embodiments of noninvasive
methods, devices, and systems for measuring a blood constituent or
analyte, such as oxygen, carbon monoxide, methemoglobin, total
hemoglobin, glucose, proteins, lipids, a concentration percentage
thereof (e.g., saturation), or for measuring many other
physiologically relevant patient characteristics. These
characteristics can relate, for example, to pulse rate, hydration,
trending information and analysis, patient wellness, and the
like.
[0005] In certain embodiments, a device capable of producing a
signal responsive to light attenuated by tissue at a measurement
site includes an optical sensor that can emit light on tissue of a
living person, detect the light after attenuation by the tissue,
and output a signal responsive to the attenuated light. The device
can further include a processor that can receive the signal from
the optical sensor, process the signal with a measurement algorithm
to determine a first measurement of a physiological parameter,
receive a second measurement of the physiological parameter from an
alternative source, and adaptively adjust the measurement algorithm
based at least partly on the second measurement.
[0006] In certain embodiments, a method of determining whether to
recommend an alternative measurement of a physiological parameter
can include obtaining a noninvasive measurement of a physiological
parameter using an optical sensor, receiving an alternative
measurement of the physiological parameter, where the alternative
measurement can be generated by an alternative sensor, analyzing
the noninvasive and alternative measurements to determine whether a
condition has been met, and in response to the condition being met,
outputting an indication that a new measurement should be obtained
from the alternative sensor.
[0007] For purposes of summarizing the disclosure, certain aspects,
advantages and novel features of the inventions have been described
herein. It is to be understood that not necessarily all such
advantages can be achieved in accordance with any particular
embodiment of the inventions disclosed herein. Thus, the inventions
disclosed herein can be embodied or carried out in a manner that
achieves or optimizes one advantage or group of advantages as
taught herein without necessarily achieving other advantages as can
be taught or suggested herein.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0008] Throughout the drawings, reference numbers can be re-used to
indicate correspondence between referenced elements. The drawings
are provided to illustrate embodiments of the inventions described
herein and not to limit the scope thereof.
[0009] FIG. 1 illustrates an embodiment of a calibration
system;
[0010] FIG. 2 illustrates an embodiment of a monitoring system that
can implement the calibration system FIG. 1;
[0011] FIG. 3 illustrates another embodiment of a monitoring system
that can implement the calibration system FIG. 1;
[0012] FIG. 4 illustrates an embodiment of a physiological monitor
that may be used in the monitoring systems of FIG. 2 or 3;
[0013] FIGS. 5A through 5C illustrate embodiments of glucose
monitoring systems;
[0014] FIGS. 6 and 7 illustrate additional embodiments of glucose
monitoring systems;
[0015] FIGS. 8 and 9 illustrate embodiments of parallel engines for
glucose monitoring systems;
[0016] FIGS. 10 and 11A illustrate embodiments of processes for
determining whether to suggest obtaining an alternative measurement
of a physiological parameter;
[0017] FIG. 11B illustrates an embodiment of a process for
adjusting an alternative glucose measurement based at least in part
on a hemoglobin measurement; and
[0018] FIG. 12 illustrates another embodiment of a data collection
system.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0019] Noninvasive optical sensors can use spectrophotometry
techniques to measure a variety of blood constituents, including
for example, glucose, oxygen saturation, hemoglobin, methemoglobin,
carboxyhemoglobin, other hemoglobin species, concentrations of the
same, and the like. In addition, noninvasive optical sensors can
also be used to measure a variety of other physiological
parameters, including pulse rate, perfusion, and the like. An
optical sensor can include one or more emitters that shine light
through tissue of a living person, such as through a finger, toe,
or foot. One or more detectors can receive the transmitted light
after attenuation by the tissue and can generate one or more
signals responsive to the attenuated light. A processor can process
the one or more signals to derive measurements of one or more
physiological parameters.
[0020] Noninvasive optical sensors can be calibrated empirically by
obtaining measurements from a population of users. By comparing the
noninvasive measurements with measurements of known parameter
values in the population, a calibration curve can be generated.
Because this initial calibration curve may be generated based on a
population of individuals, it may not accurately reflect parameter
levels for certain individuals. The optimal calibration curve for
one individual can differ from the initial curve because of skin
variations resulting from pigmentation, UV damage, age, erythema,
or the like. Different calibration curves can also result from
fingernail variations and variations in individuals' hemoglobin
species.
[0021] This disclosure describes, among other features, systems and
methods for customizing calibration curves, parameter algorithms,
and the like to individual users. In certain embodiments, an
initial calibration curve generated based on a population can be
used as a starting point in an algorithm for measuring a
physiological parameter such as glucose. The measurement algorithm
can determine one or more initial measurement values for a user
based on the initial calibration curve. In certain embodiments, one
or more alternative measurements, such as invasive or minimally
invasive measurements, can periodically or sporadically be input
into the measurement algorithm. The algorithm can use the
alternative measurements to adapt the calibration curve to the
individual. As a result, measurements for the individual can more
accurately reflect the individual's actual parameter values.
[0022] In the example context of glucose, measurement information
from a finger-prick glucose meter or from another glucose sensor
can be supplied to a noninvasive glucose device. For instance, a
user could manually input a measurement obtained from a finger
prick glucose meter into the noninvasive glucose device, or the
noninvasive device might have a built-in finger prick meter. An
adaptive glucose algorithm in the noninvasive device can adaptively
recalibrate itself based on measurements received from the finger
prick meter. In other embodiments, noninvasive parameter
measurements can be used to calibrate or adjust invasive or
minimally-invasive measurements.
[0023] For purposes of illustration, the remainder of this
disclosure is described primarily in the context of glucose.
However, the features described herein can be applied to other
blood constituents or concentrations thereof and to other
physiological parameters.
[0024] FIG. 1 illustrates an embodiment of a calibration system 100
that can adaptively adjust parameter measurements of a user. The
calibration system 100 can start with an empirically-derived model
for measuring one or more parameters. The empirical model can be a
calibration curve that is generated based on measurement data taken
from a population. Advantageously, in certain embodiments, the
calibration system 100 can adapt the empirical model to an
individual. As a result, measurements taken for the individual can
be more accurate.
[0025] In the depicted embodiment, the calibration system 100
includes a parameter calculator 101. The parameter calculator 101
can include hardware (such as one or more processors), software,
and/or firmware for calculating a physiological parameter such as
glucose, oxygen saturation, hemoglobin, or the like. Inputs to the
parameter calculator 101 can include, among others, measurement
data 105 and alternative data 103 indicative of one or more
parameters. The measurement data 105 can be obtained from a
physiological sensor (not shown), such as a noninvasive optical
sensor. Examples of noninvasive optical sensors are described below
(see, e.g., FIGS. 4 and 12).
[0026] The alternative data 103 can be obtained from an alternative
source, such as another patient monitor or another sensor (not
shown). The alternative patient monitor can be an invasive or
minimally-invasive monitor or can even be another noninvasive
monitor. For example, in the context of glucose, the alternative
patient monitor could be a spot-check monitor (e.g., a finger-prick
glucose meter) or a continuous glucose monitor.
[0027] The parameter calculator 101 can calculate one or more
physiological parameters based on the measurement data 105. If the
measurement data 105 is provided by an optical sensor, the
measurement data 105 can include light transmittance values after
attenuation by tissue of a patient. The parameter calculator 101
can compare the transmittance values or a ratio derived from the
transmittance values to a calibration curve to obtain a parameter
value.
[0028] As an example, a pulse oximetry sensor can shine red and
infrared wavelengths of light into a tissue site. A photodetector
can receive the red and infrared light attenuated by the tissue
site, and in response, transmit a measurement data 105 signal to
the parameter calculator 101. The parameter calculator 101 can
compute a ratio of the red to infrared values in the measurement
data 105 and compare this ratio with an empirically-generated
calibration curve to obtain a value for oxygen saturation
(SpO.sub.2).
[0029] In certain embodiments, the parameter calculator 101
advantageously uses the alternative data 103 to adjust calculation
of the one or more physiological parameters. For instance, the
parameter calculator 101 can use the alternative data 105 to adjust
an algorithm for calculating a physiological parameter. In one
embodiment, adjusting the algorithm can include adjusting an
empirically-derived calibration curve used by the algorithm.
Advantageously, in certain embodiments, the calibration curve used
by the parameter calculator 101 can therefore account for
characteristics of an individual under measurement. Embodiments of
algorithms that can be used by the parameter calculator 101 are
described in greater detail below with respect to FIGS. 5 through
11B.
[0030] The parameter calculator 101 can output parameter data 107
indicative of the calculated parameters. The parameter data 107 can
be displayed on a display device 115. The parameter calculator 101
could also output the alternative data 103. For example, the
parameter calculator 101 could output a finger-prick glucose
measurement alongside or in place of a noninvasive glucose
measurement. In another embodiment, the parameter calculator 101
provides parameter values as an output 106 to another device, for
example, over a network.
[0031] The parameter calculator 101 can also calculate trend data
reflecting trend information for the parameter data 107. The
parameter calculator 101 can also synthesize or scale waveform
data. In addition to outputting the parameter data 107, the
parameter calculator 101 can output trend data 109, synthesized,
scaled, or actual waveforms 111, calibration data 113, and alarms
114. The calibration data 113 can include information related to
calibrations performed by the parameter calculator 101 (see, e.g.,
FIG. 7). The parameter calculator 101 can provide the outputs 107,
109, 111, 113 to the display 115, to a separate patient monitoring
device, or to another device configured to receive physiological
parameter information.
[0032] In an embodiment, the parameter calculator 101 is
implemented in a single monitoring device. In an embodiment, the
features of the parameter calculator 101 are distributed among
separate devices. In an embodiment, the parameter calculator 101
includes a processor, processor board, or an Original Equipment
Manufacture (OEM) board. In an embodiment, the parameter calculator
101 is portable. Data communicated between the various components
of the calibration system 100 can be communicated through cables or
wirelessly. Other inputs and/or outputs can be included with the
system. For example, an error data output can be used to
communicate an error calculated between the measured data 105 and
the alternative data 103.
[0033] FIG. 2 illustrates an example monitoring system 200 that can
implement the calibration system 100 of FIG. 1. The monitoring
system 200 includes a noninvasive monitor 210, which is coupled to
an individual 202 via a sensor 201. The sensor 201 is an example of
a noninvasive optical sensor. The sensor 201 can provide
measurement data to the noninvasive monitor 210, which can
calculate a physiological parameter based at least in part on the
measurement data and display the physiological parameter. The
noninvasive monitor 210 can output glucose values derived from the
sensor 210. The noninvasive monitor 210 can measure glucose values
continuously or can be used for spot-checks.
[0034] The noninvasive monitor 210 can implement the calibration
system 100 described above. For example, the noninvasive monitor
210 can adjust a glucose algorithm based on alternative data
received from an alternative monitor. The alternative monitor in
the depicted embodiment is a glucose meter 220, sometimes referred
to as a glucometer or a finger-prick meter. The individual 202 can
use the glucose meter 220 to prick the individual's finger. The
individual can then apply a blood sample to a test strip 230. The
individual can insert the test strip 230 into the glucose monitor
220, which can determine a glucose measurement from the blood
sample on the test strip 230.
[0035] The glucose meter 220 can provide glucose measurements to
the noninvasive monitor 210 wirelessly or through a wired
connection. Alternatively, the individual 202 can input measurement
values calculated by the glucose meter 220 into the noninvasive
monitor 210. The noninvasive monitor 210 can then use the features
of the calibration system 100 described above and in greater detail
below to adjust the calculation of noninvasive glucose.
[0036] FIG. 3 illustrates another example monitoring system 300
that can implement the calibration system 100 of FIG. 1. The
monitoring system 300 includes a monitor 310, which like the
noninvasive monitor 210, obtains glucose measurements noninvasively
from a sensor 301 coupled to an individual 202. Additionally, the
monitor 300 includes the functionality of the glucose meter 220
described above. Namely, the monitor 300 can be used to obtain
blood samples from a test strip 330. Thus, in certain embodiments,
the monitor 310 can calculate both noninvasive glucose values and
alternative glucose values. The monitor 310 can implement the
calibration system 100 of FIG. 1 to adjust calculation of the
noninvasive glucose based at least in part on the alternative
glucose measurements. Although not shown, in other embodiments the
monitor 310 can include the features of a continuous
minimally-invasive glucose monitor instead of or in addition to the
features of a finger-prick monitor.
[0037] FIG. 4 illustrates another example monitoring device 400 in
which the calibration system 100 can be housed. Advantageously, in
certain embodiments, the example monitoring device 400 shown can
have a shape and size that allows a user to operate it with a
single hand or attach it, for example, to a user's body or
limb.
[0038] In the depicted embodiment, the monitoring device 400
includes a finger clip sensor 401 connected to a monitor 409 via a
cable 412. In the embodiment shown, the monitor 409 includes a
display 410, control buttons 408 and a power button. Moreover, the
monitor 409 can advantageously include electronic processing,
signal processing, and data storage devices capable of receiving
signal data from the sensor 401, processing the signal data to
determine one or more output measurement values indicative of one
or more physiological parameters of a user, and displaying the
measurement values, trends of the measurement values, combinations
of measurement values, and the like.
[0039] The cable 412 connecting the sensor 401 and the monitor 409
can be implemented using one or more wires, optical fiber, flex
circuits, or the like. In some embodiments, the cable 412 can
employ twisted pairs of conductors in order to minimize or reduce
cross-talk of data transmitted from the sensor 401 to the monitor
409. Various lengths of the cable 412 can be employed to allow for
separation between the sensor 401 and the monitor 409. The cable
412 can be fitted with a connector (male or female) on either end
of the cable 412 so that the sensor 401 and the monitor 409 can be
connected and disconnected from each other. Alternatively, the
sensor 401 and the monitor 409 can be coupled together via a
wireless communication link, such as an infrared link, a radio
frequency channel, or any other wireless communication protocol and
channel. The sensor 401 could also be integrated with a monitor 409
in other embodiments.
[0040] Moreover, the sensor 401 and/or monitor 409 can include any
of the features described in any of the following related
applications, each of which is hereby incorporated by reference in
its entirety: U.S. application Ser. No. 12/534,827, filed Aug. 3,
2009, titled "MULTI-STREAM DATA COLLECTION SYSTEM FOR NONINVASIVE
MEASUREMENT OF BLOOD CONSTITUENTS"; U.S. application Ser. No.
12/534,812, filed Aug. 3, 2009, titled "MULTI-STREAM SENSOR FRONT
ENDS FOR NONINVASIVE MEASUREMENT OF BLOOD CONSTITUENTS"; U.S.
application Ser. No. 12/534,823, filed Aug. 3, 2009, titled
"MULTI-STREAM SENSOR FOR NONINVASIVE MEASUREMENT OF BLOOD
CONSTITUENTS"; U.S. application Ser. No. 12/534,825, filed Aug. 3,
2009, titled "MULTI-STREAM EMITTER FOR NONINVASIVE MEASUREMENT OF
BLOOD CONSTITUENTS"; U.S. application Ser. No. 12/497,528, filed
Jul. 2, 2009, titled "NOISE SHIELDING FOR A NONINVASIVE DEVICE";
U.S. application Ser. No. 12/497,523, filed Jul. 2, 2009, titled
"CONTOURED PROTRUSION FOR IMPROVING SPECTROSCOPIC MEASUREMENT OF
BLOOD CONSTITUENTS"; U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/239,741,
filed Sep. 3, 2009, titled "EMITTER DRIVER FOR NONINVASIVE PATIENT
MONITOR"; U.S. Design application No. 29/323,409, filed Aug. 25,
2008, titled "PATIENT MONITORING SENSOR"; U.S. Design application
No. 29/323,408, filed Aug. 25, 2008, titled "PATIENT MONITOR"; U.S.
application Ser. No. 12/497,506, filed Jul. 2, 2009, titled "HEAT
SINK FOR NONINVASIVE MEDICAL SENSOR"; U.S. Provisional Application
No. 61/243,507, filed Sep. 17, 2009, titled "IMPROVING ANALYTE
MONITORING USING ONE OR MORE ACCELEROMETERS"; U.S. Provisional
Application No. 61/177,971, filed May 13, 2009, titled
"CALIBRATIONLESS SPECTROPHOTOMETER"; and U.S. Provisional
Application No. 61/228,495, filed Jul. 24, 2009, titled
"INTERFERENCE DETECTOR FOR PATIENT MONITOR."
[0041] The monitor 409 can be attached to the patient. For example,
the monitor 409 can include a belt clip or straps (not shown) that
facilitate attachment to a patient's belt, arm, leg, or the like.
The monitor 409 can also include a fitting, slot, magnet, LEMO
snap-click connector, or other connecting mechanism to allow the
cable 412 and sensor 401 to be attached to the monitor 409.
[0042] The monitor 409 can also include other components, such as a
speaker, power button, removable storage or memory (e.g., a flash
card slot), an AC power port, and one or more network interfaces,
such as a universal serial bus interface or an Ethernet port. For
example, the monitor 409 can include a display 410 that can
indicate a measurement for glucose, for example, in mg/dL. Other
analytes and forms of display can also appear on the monitor
409.
[0043] The sensor 401 can measure various blood constituents or
analytes noninvasively using multi-stream spectroscopy. In an
embodiment, the multi-stream spectroscopy can employ visible,
infrared and near infrared wavelengths. The sensor 401 can include
photocommunicative components, such as an emitter, a detector, and
other components (not shown). The emitter can include a plurality
of sets of optical sources that, in an embodiment, are arranged
together as a point source. The various optical sources can emit a
sequence of optical radiation pulses at different wavelengths
towards a measurement site, such as a patient's finger. Detectors
can then detect optical radiation from the measurement site. The
optical sources and optical radiation detectors can operate at any
appropriate wavelength, including, for example, infrared, near
infrared, visible light, and ultraviolet. In addition, the optical
sources and optical radiation detectors can operate at any
appropriate wavelength, and modifications to the embodiments
desirable to operate at any such wavelength can be used in certain
embodiments. The sensor 401 or the monitor 409 can also provide
outputs to a storage device or network interface.
[0044] In addition, although a single sensor 401 with a single
monitor 409 is shown, different combinations of sensors and device
pairings can be implemented. For example, multiple sensors can be
provided for a plurality of differing patient types or measurement
sites or even patient fingers. As described above with respect to
FIG. 3, the monitor 409 can also include noninvasive or
minimally-invasive features for measuring analytes such as
glucose.
[0045] FIGS. 5A through 5C illustrate embodiments of glucose
monitoring systems 500. Each of the glucose monitoring systems 500
can implement certain features of the parameter calculator 101
described above.
[0046] Referring to FIG. 5A, an embodiment of a glucose monitoring
system 500A is shown. In the glucose monitoring system 500A, signal
inputs are provided to a filtering and processing module 510. The
signal inputs can include signals received from a noninvasive
optical sensor or the like. For example, the signal inputs could
include optical signals, photoplethysmograph signals, transmittance
signals, combinations of the same, and the like. Moreover, in some
implementations, the input signals can include data regarding
optical path length between one or more emitters and one or more
detectors, a straight line distance between an emitter and a
detector, and an angle between the straight line distance and an
axis parallel to or substantially parallel to a detector shell or
finger.
[0047] The filtering and processing module 510 can include analog
and/or digital circuitry for filtering and processing one or more
of the signal inputs. For instance, the module 510 can include
analog conditioning circuitry, anti-alias filters, analog-to
digital-converters, and the like. The module 510 can pride one or
more outputs to an adaptive glucose algorithm 520. These outputs
can include one or more ratios of wavelengths of light,
transmittance values, coefficients of absorption, absorption
values, combinations of the same, and the like.
[0048] The adaptive glucose algorithm 520 can receive these outputs
as well as an alternative measurement input, G.sub.u. The adaptive
glucose algorithm 520 can be implemented in hardware and/or
software. The alternative measurement G.sub.u can be an invasive or
minimally-invasive glucose value. In another embodiment, the
alternative measurement input can include raw signal inputs from an
invasive or minimally-invasive glucose monitor.
[0049] In certain embodiments, the adaptive glucose algorithm 520
initially starts noninvasive monitoring using an
empirically-derived calibration curve. The adaptive glucose
algorithm 520 can then use the alternative measurement to adjust
the calibration curve to better match characteristics of a user.
The adaptive glucose algorithm 520 can output a noninvasive
measurement G.sub.u, which reflects adjustment by the alternative
measurement G.sub.u. More detailed embodiments of the adaptive
glucose algorithm 520 are described below with respect to FIG.
6.
[0050] FIG. 5B illustrates another embodiment of a glucose
monitoring system 500B. The system 500B also includes the filtering
and processing module 510, which receives the signal inputs and
provides filtered and processed outputs to a glucose algorithm 522.
The glucose algorithm 522 in the depicted embodiment uses an
empirically-derived calibration curve to generate noninvasive
glucose measurements G.sub.u. The measurements G.sub.u are output
to a calibration module 530.
[0051] The calibration module 530 can be implemented in hardware
and/or software. The calibration module 530 can calibrate the
noninvasive glucose measurements G.sub.u using one or more
alternative glucose measurements G.sub.u. For example, the
calibration module 530 could perform regression or another
statistical estimation technique to calibrate the noninvasive
measurement. The glucose monitoring system 500B can therefore
calibrate glucose measurements based on alternative measurements
without adapting the glucose algorithm 522.
[0052] Examples of these calibration techniques are described below
with respect to FIG. 7. Additional calibration embodiments that
might be performed by the calibration module are described below
with respect to FIGS. 10 and 11.
[0053] FIG. 5C illustrates another embodiment of a glucose
monitoring system 500C. The system 500C includes the features of
both the glucose monitoring systems 500A and 500B described above.
For example, signal inputs are provided to a filtering and
processing block 510, which provides outputs to the adaptive
glucose algorithm 520. The adaptive glucose algorithm 520 can
receive an alternative glucose measurement G.sub.u and use this
measurement to adjust the calibration curve. The adaptive glucose
algorithm 520 can output a noninvasive measurement G.sub.u, which
can reflect adjustment by the alternative measurement G.sub.u.
[0054] The output G.sub.u of the adaptive glucose algorithm 520 is
provided to the calibration module 530, which can further calibrate
the noninvasive glucose measurement G.sub.u with the alternative
measurement G.sub.u. The resulting output of the calibration module
530 is a calibrated glucose value {circumflex over (G)}.sub.u.
[0055] FIG. 6 illustrates a more detailed embodiment of a glucose
monitoring system 600. In particular, the glucose monitoring system
600 is a more detailed embodiment of the glucose monitoring system
500A of FIG. 5A. As such, the glucose monitoring system 600
includes the filtering and processing module 510 and an adaptive
glucose algorithm 620.
[0056] As before, signal inputs are received by the filtering and
processing module 510, which outputs one or more ratios of
wavelengths of light, transmittance values, coefficients of
absorption, absorption values, and the like. In some embodiments,
the noninvasive sensor used to obtain the signal inputs obtains n
signals corresponding to n detected wavelengths of light, where n
is an integer. The filtering and processing module 510 can output
ratios of a subset of these wavelengths. For two wavelengths, the
module 510 could output a single ratio. For multiple (e.g., more
than two) wavelengths, the module 510 could combine any of the
wavelengths into ratios.
[0057] The adaptive glucose algorithm 620 receives the ratios from
the module 510 and processes the ratios or other outputs to
determine an initial noninvasive glucose measurement G.sub.u. In
the depicted embodiment, the adaptive glucose algorithm 620
includes a plurality of basis functions 624 (.psi..sub.i). Each of
the basis functions 624 can receive one or more ratios (or other
outputs of the filtering and processing module 510) as inputs. The
basis functions 624 can be blending functions or the like. The
basis functions 624 are multiplied by weights 626 (w.sub.i) to
produce a noninvasive glucose measurement G.sub.u. The combination
of basis functions 624 and weights 626 can be expressed as follows,
via sum block 628:
G ^ u = i W i .psi. i ( 1 ) ##EQU00001##
[0058] In one embodiment, the basis functions 624 are polynomial
functions, such as x, x.sup.2, (x.sub.1+x.sub.2)/2, and the like,
where x represents a ratio or some other output of the filtering
and processing module 510. The basis functions 624 can also be
logarithmic (e.g., ln(x)), trigonometric, Fourier basis functions,
wavelet basis functions, combinations of the same, and the like. In
another embodiment, at least some of the basis functions 624 are
radial basis functions. The radial basis functions are Gaussian in
one embodiment, having the form
.phi.(r)=e.sup.-.alpha.(r-r.sup.0.sup.).sup.T.sup.(r-r.sup.0.sup.)
(2)
where r represents a vector of ratios, r.sub.0 represents an
initial vector of ratios, and .alpha. is a constant.
[0059] In certain embodiments, the combination of the basis
functions 624 and weights 626 approximates a calibration curve.
Application of the basis functions 624 and weights 626 to the
ratios (or other module 510 outputs) effectively applies the
calibration curve to the ratios (or other outputs). Advantageously,
in some implementations, radial basis functions 624 can approximate
the calibration curve more accurately than other bases, such as
polynomial bases.
[0060] In one embodiment, the basis functions 624 and weights 626
are selected empirically. In addition, the number of basis
functions 624 and weights 626 used can be determined empirically.
In one embodiment, the more ratios that are provided as inputs to
the adaptive glucose algorithm 620, the fewer basis functions 624
and weights 626 that might be used, and vice versa.
[0061] Because the basis functions 624 and weights 626 are selected
empirically, they may not accurately represent a true calibration
curve for a given individual. Thus, in certain embodiments, an
adaptive algorithm 625 can be used to adapt the weights 626 of the
glucose algorithm 620. The adaptive algorithm 625 receives an error
signal or cost function e(n), which can be the difference between
the noninvasive measurement G.sub.u and an alternative (e.g.,
invasive) measurement G.sub.u (via sum block 627). In one
embodiment, the adaptive algorithm 625 can minimize the cost
function e(n) to obtain adjustment factors for the weights 626 or
new weights 626.
[0062] Any of a variety of adaptive algorithms 625 may be used. For
instance, the adaptive algorithm 625 could implement one or more of
the following: a least mean squares algorithm (LMS), a least
squares algorithm, a recursive least squares (RLS) algorithm, a
Kalman filter, a joint process estimator, an adaptive joint process
estimator, a least-squares lattice joint process estimator, a
least-squares lattice predictor, a correlation canceller, optimized
or frequency domain implementations of any of the above, any other
linear predictor, combinations of the same, and the like.
[0063] The adaptive glucose algorithm 620 can adapt in other ways.
For example, the adaptive glucose algorithm 620 could use fewer,
more, or different types of basis functions 624 for certain
individuals to adapt the calibration curve. In addition, in
alternative embodiments, the adaptive glucose algorithm 620 adapts
the raw signal output from the filtering and processing module 510
with the alternative measurement or a raw alternative measurement.
For instance, in the monitoring system 300 of FIG. 3, where the
monitor 310 includes noninvasive and minimally-invasive features
together, the monitor 310 could adapt raw noninvasive signals with
raw minimally-invasive signals.
[0064] FIG. 7 illustrates another embodiment of a glucose
monitoring system 700. The glucose monitoring system 700 includes
the features of the glucose monitoring system 600. In addition, the
glucose monitoring system 700 supplies the noninvasive output
G.sub.u to the calibration module 530 described above with respect
to FIG. 5B. The calibration module 530 also receives an alternative
measurement, for example, from an invasive or minimally-invasive
monitor. The calibration module 530 can advantageously further
refine the noninvasive measurement to output a calibrated glucose
value {circumflex over (G)}.sub.u.
[0065] The calibration module 530 can perform calibration using
various techniques, such as linear regression. In one embodiment,
the regression can be performed by first determining an offset, for
example, as follows:
offset=G.sub.u-G.sub.u (3)
where G.sub.u represents an alternative glucose measurement and
where G.sub.u represents a noninvasive glucose measurement. The
offset can be used to obtain a calibrated measurement, for example,
as follows:
{circumflex over (G)}.sub.u=G.sub.u+offset (4)
where {circumflex over (G)}.sub.u is the calibrated glucose value.
Equation (4) can be refined in one embodiment by applying a
multiplier to the noninvasive measurement. Equation (5) illustrates
an example of using a multiplier:
{circumflex over (G)}.sub.u=.alpha.G.sub.u+offset (5)
where .alpha. is the multiplier.
[0066] In addition, multiple alternative and noninvasive
measurements can be combined together in a system of linear
equations based on equation (5) to calculate or estimate .alpha.
and the offset values. An example of a system of two equations is
shown in equation (6):
[ G u 1 G u 2 ] = [ G ^ ^ u 1 1 G ^ ^ u 2 1 ] A [ .alpha. offset ]
( 6 ) ##EQU00002##
In equation (6), A is a matrix. Assuming A is nonsingular, equation
(6) can be solved for .alpha. and the offset as follows:
[ .alpha. offset ] = A - 1 [ G u 1 G u 2 ] ( 7 ) ##EQU00003##
If A is singular, or if more than two alternative measurements are
being analyzed, in some embodiments the pseudoinverse of A can be
used to calculate .alpha. and the offset. For example:
[ .alpha. offset ] = P INV ( A - 1 ) [ G u 1 G u 2 G uN ] ( 8 )
##EQU00004##
where P.sub.INV( ) denotes the Moore-Penrose pseudoinverse (or
another suitable pseudoinverse).
[0067] In still other embodiments, polynomial regression may be
used to calibrate the glucose measurements. Polynomial regression
can take the form of a polynomial equation in G.sub.u (a
noninvasive measurement). One example of a polynomial function that
may be used is shown in equation (9):
{circumflex over
(G)}.sub.u=P(G.sub.u)=.alpha..sub.nG.sub.u.sup.n+.alpha..sub.n-1G.sub.u.s-
up.n-1+ . . . +offset (9)
where P( ) represents a polynomial operator, .alpha..sub.n
represent the coefficients of the noninvasive measurement, and n is
an integer that represents the order of the polynomial.
[0068] To solve for the coefficients .alpha..sub.n and the offset,
a system of polynomial equations can be generated from multiple
noninvasive and alternative measurements. This system can be
written in matrix form as follows:
[ G u 1 G u 2 G un + 1 ] y = [ G ^ u 1 n G ^ u 1 n - 1 G ^ u 1 G ^
u 2 n G ^ u 2 n - 1 G ^ u 2 G ^ un + 1 n G ^ un + 1 n - 1 G ^ un +
1 ] A [ .alpha. n .alpha. n - 1 .alpha. 1 offset ] x ( 10 )
##EQU00005##
A solution to this system of equations can be found as follows:
x=A.sup.-1y (11)
Various estimation or approximation techniques could be used to
avoid the computational inefficiency of calculating the inverse of
A. In addition, other forms of regression or other approximation or
estimation methods may be used to calibrate the noninvasive
measurements.
[0069] FIGS. 8 and 9 illustrate further embodiments of glucose
monitoring systems 800, 900 that implement a plurality of glucose
algorithms. Referring to FIGS. 8 and 9 together, signal inputs are
received by the filtering and processing module 510, described
above. The filtering and processing module 510 provides outputs,
such as ratios or the like, to a plurality of glucose algorithms
820, 920. Each glucose algorithm outputs a glucose value G.sub.ui.
The plurality of glucose algorithms 820, 920 can be considered
parallel engines in certain embodiments.
[0070] Some or all of the glucose algorithms 820, 920 can be
adaptive glucose algorithms, though this need not be the case. At
least some of the algorithms 820, 920 can implement some or all of
the features of the adaptive glucose algorithm 620 described above
with respect to FIG. 6. Some of the glucose algorithms 820, 920
could use basis functions to approximate a calibration curve, for
instance. Different ones of the algorithms 820, 920 could use
different numbers or types of basis functions to provide different
results. Advantageously, in certain embodiments, these results can
be combined, compared, or otherwise selected to provide more
accurate glucose values.
[0071] Referring to FIG. 8, weights 822 (w.sub.i) can be applied to
the glucose values from each algorithm and combined at a combiner
824 to output an overall glucose value G.sub.u. The weights 824 can
average or otherwise blend the outputs of the glucose algorithms
820. Although not shown, these weights may be adapted using any of
the adaptive algorithms described above, e.g., based on alternative
measurements. Fewer than all of the algorithms may be combined in
some embodiments; a subset of the algorithms 920 may be selected to
be combined for certain individuals.
[0072] Referring to FIG. 9, the outputs of the algorithms 920 can
be provided to a selector module 924, which can select one or more
of the outputs of the algorithms 920 to output as a final glucose
value G.sub.u. The selector 920 can select different algorithms 920
for different types of patients (e.g., neonates versus adults).
Alternatively, the selector 920 can compare the outputs from the
glucose algorithms 920 to determine which, if any, of the
algorithms provided outliers. The selector 924 could reject the
outliers and combine (e.g., average) the outputs of the remaining
algorithms 920.
[0073] In yet another embodiment, the selector 924 could determine
which of the algorithm outputs are close to each other (e.g.,
within a tolerance) and output a combination of those outputs 920.
For example, if there are five algorithms 920 and three of the
algorithms produce a similar output and two are outliers, the
selector 924 could average the three similar outputs or select one
of the three outputs as the final glucose value. Moreover, the
selector 924 can learn over time and can select one or more
algorithms 920 for a particular person based on past performance of
that algorithm. Many other configurations and extensions of the
selector 924 are possible.
[0074] FIGS. 10 and 11A illustrate embodiments of processes 1000,
1100A for determining whether to suggest an alternative measurement
of a physiological parameter. These processes can be implemented by
the parameter calculator 101 or by any of the other systems
described herein. Advantageously, the processes 1000, 1100A can
receive alternative and noninvasive measurements as inputs. The
processes 1000, 1100A can determine, based at least partly on the
noninvasive measurements and/or based on an elapse of time, whether
an alternative measurement should be taken. As a result, a user can
be spared the discomfort of painful finger pricks or other
invasive/minimally-invasive measurements while a noninvasive
measurement is within a certain tolerance or while a certain amount
of time has yet to elapse.
[0075] Referring to FIG. 10, at block 1002 of the process 1000, an
alternative glucose measurement is obtained. The alternative
glucose measurement can be obtained, for example, from an invasive
or minimally-invasive device. At block 1004, a first noninvasive
glucose measurement is determined. This block can be implemented by
a noninvasive glucose device.
[0076] The alternative glucose measurement is output at block 1006,
e.g., by the noninvasive device. Alternatively, the noninvasive
glucose measurement can be output instead. At block 1008, a new
noninvasive glucose measurement is determined. If at decision block
1010 a difference between the new and the first noninvasive
measurements exceeds a threshold, an alarm or other indicator is
output indicating or suggesting that a new alternative glucose
measurement should be taken. Otherwise, the process 1000 loops back
to block 1008, where a new noninvasive measurement is
determined.
[0077] Thus, the process 1000 can loop from block 1010 to block
1008 until the noninvasive measurement changes enough to trigger an
alarm or other indication. Advantageously, in certain embodiments,
the process 1000 can therefore allow a user to postpone painful
finger prick or other invasive tests, while the noninvasive
measurement is within a certain tolerance of a finger-prick
measurement.
[0078] In certain embodiments, the parameter calculator 101 of FIG.
1 performs the process 1000 by continuously comparing the
noninvasive measurement to a stored alternative measurement or
measurements. If the alternative measurements come from a
continuous glucose or other monitor, the parameter calculator 101
can compare periodicity of the noninvasive and alternative
measurements, peak value, low value, wave shape, or other factors.
Additionally, in alternative embodiments, the parameter calculator
101 can output the noninvasive value instead of or in addition to
the alternative value.
[0079] FIG. 11A illustrates another example process 1100A for
determining whether to suggest an alternative measurement to be
taken. As in the process 1000, alternative and noninvasive glucose
measurements are taken at blocks 1102 and 1104, and the alternative
measurement is output at block 1106. Likewise, a new noninvasive
glucose value is determined at block 1108.
[0080] At decision block 1110, it is determined whether a
difference between new and first noninvasive values exceeds a
threshold. If so, an alarm can be output at block 1112 indicating
that a new alternative glucose measurement should be obtained, as
in the process 1000. If not, it is further determined at decision
block 1114 whether an elapsed time has exceeded a threshold. If so,
then the alarm is output at block 1112. Thus, in certain
embodiments, an alarm is triggered by elapsed time, even when the
noninvasive value has not changed beyond a threshold.
[0081] In an alternative embodiment, instead of determining whether
the noninvasive measurement differs more than a threshold, an
elapse of time can be the main or only criteria used to determine
whether to trigger an alarm. For example, a periodic time interval
could be set for recommending an alternative measurement.
Additionally, in alternative embodiments, the noninvasive value can
be output instead of or in addition to the alternative value.
[0082] FIG. 11B illustrates an embodiment of a process 11008 for
adjusting a glucose measurement. Test strips for finger-prick
glucose meters can be sensitive to different concentrations of
various hemoglobin species in an individual's blood. To compensate
for these variations in hemoglobin species, in certain embodiments,
the process 11008 adjusts glucose measurements based on one or more
hemoglobin measurements. These features can also be applied to
adjust noninvasive glucose measurements. The process 1100B can be
implemented by the parameter calculator 101 or by another
physiological monitor.
[0083] At block 1122, a glucose measurement is obtained. The
glucose measurement can be invasive or noninvasive. At block 1124,
one or more hemoglobin measurements are obtained. The hemoglobin
measurements may include any of total hemoglobin (Hbt),
methemoglobin, carboxyhemoglobin, or other hemoglobin species. The
noninvasive sensor described above with respect to FIG. 4 could
obtain these measurements. A more detailed example of a sensor for
obtaining these measurements is described in U.S. Publication No.
2006/0211924, filed Mar. 1, 2006, titled "Multiple Wavelength
Sensor Emitters," the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by
reference in its entirety.
[0084] The glucose measurement is adjusted at block 1126 based at
least partly on the one or more hemoglobin measurements. In certain
embodiments, this block 1126 can further include generating or
modifying a calibration curve that relates glucose and one or more
hemoglobin species. Like the calibration curve adjustments
described above, an initial calibration curve relating glucose and
hemoglobin species can be derived empirically. Then, at block 1126,
the calibration curve can be adjusted based at least partly on the
measurements of the hemoglobin species, thereby adjusting the
glucose measurement. The adjustment of the glucose/hemoglobin
calibration curve can be performed using any of the techniques
described above, including adjusting weights of basis functions,
using an adaptive algorithm, and so forth. At block 1128, the
adjusted glucose measurement is output. For example, the adjusted
glucose measurement can be output on a display.
[0085] In some embodiments, the process 11006 can be used to adjust
noninvasive glucose measurements based on hemoglobin species.
Moreover, an invasive/minimally-invasive glucose measurement can be
adjusted based on hemoglobin measurements, and the adjusted
invasive/minimally-invasive measurement can be supplied to any of
the adaptive glucose algorithms described above. In one embodiment,
a test strip glucose reader can be made more accurate by accounting
for changes in hemoglobin species. In addition, rather than
displaying a noninvasive glucose measurement, an invasive or
minimally-invasive glucose measurement adjusted for hemoglobin
species can be displayed. Moreover, in yet another embodiment, the
monitor includes a strip reader and a hemoglobin sensor but not a
noninvasive glucose sensor. Many other configurations are
possible.
[0086] FIG. 12 illustrates an example of a data collection system
1200. In certain embodiments, the data collection system 1200
noninvasively measures a blood analyte, such as oxygen, carbon
monoxide, methemoglobin, total hemoglobin, glucose, proteins,
glucose, lipids, a percentage thereof (e.g., saturation) or one or
more other physiologically relevant patient characteristics. The
system 1200 can also measure additional blood constituents or
analytes and/or other physiological parameters useful in
determining a state or trend of wellness of a patient.
[0087] The data collection system 1200 can be capable of measuring
optical radiation from the measurement site. For example, in some
embodiments, the data collection system 1200 can employ one or more
photodiodes. In an embodiment, the photodiodes have an area from
about 1 mm.sup.2-5 mm.sup.2 (or higher) and are capable of
detecting about 100 nanoamps (nA) or less of current resulting from
measured light at full scale. In addition to having its ordinary
meaning, the phrase "at full scale" can mean light saturation of a
photodiode amplifier (not shown). Of course, other sizes and types
of photodiodes can be used in various embodiments.
[0088] The data collection system 1200 can measure a range of
approximately about 2 nA to about 100 nA or more full scale. The
data collection system 1200 can also include sensor front-ends that
are capable of processing and amplifying current from the
detector(s) at signal-to-noise ratios (SNRs) of about 100 decibels
(dB) or more, such as about 120 dB in order to measure various
desired analytes. The data collection system 1200 can operate with
a lower SNR if less accuracy is desired for an analyte like
glucose.
[0089] The data collection system 1200 can measure analyte
concentrations, including glucose, at least in part by detecting
light attenuated by a measurement site 1202. The measurement site
1202 can be any location on a patient's body, such as a finger,
foot, ear lobe, or the like. For convenience, this disclosure is
described primarily in the context of a finger measurement site
1202. However, the features of the embodiments disclosed herein can
be used with other measurement sites 1202.
[0090] In the depicted embodiment, the system 1200 includes an
optional tissue thickness adjuster or tissue shaper 1205, which can
include one or more protrusions, bumps, lenses, or other suitable
tissue-shaping mechanisms. In certain embodiments, the tissue
shaper 1205 is a flat or substantially flat surface that can be
positioned proximate the measurement site 1202 and that can apply
sufficient pressure to cause the tissue of the measurement site
1202 to be flat or substantially flat. In other embodiments, the
tissue shaper 1205 is a convex or substantially convex surface with
respect to the measurement site 1202. Many other configurations of
the tissue shaper 1205 are possible. Advantageously, in certain
embodiments, the tissue shaper 1205 reduces thickness of the
measurement site 1202 while preventing or reducing occlusion at the
measurement site 1202. Reducing thickness of the site can
advantageously reduce the amount of attenuation of the light
because there is less tissue through which the light must travel.
Shaping the tissue in to a convex (or alternatively concave)
surface can also provide more surface area from which light can be
detected.
[0091] The embodiment of the data collection system 1200 shown also
includes an optional noise shield 1203. In an embodiment, the noise
shield 1203 can be advantageously adapted to reduce electromagnetic
noise while increasing the transmittance of light from the
measurement site 1202 to one or more detectors 1206 (described
below). For example, the noise shield 1203 can advantageously
include one or more layers of conductive coated glass or a metal
grid electrically communicating with one or more other shields of
the sensor 1201 or electrically grounded. In an embodiment where
the noise shield 1203 includes conductive coated glass, the coating
can advantageously include indium tin oxide. In an embodiment, the
indium tin oxide includes a surface resistivity ranging from
approximately 30 ohms per square inch to about 500 ohms per square
inch. In an embodiment, the resistivity is approximately 30, 200,
or 500 ohms per square inch. Other resistivities can also be used
which are less than about 30 ohms or more than about 500 ohms.
Other conductive materials that are transparent or substantially
transparent to light can be used instead.
[0092] In some embodiments, the measurement site 1202 is located
somewhere along a non-dominant arm or a non-dominant hand, e.g., a
right-handed person's left arm or left hand. In some patients, the
non-dominant arm or hand can have less musculature and higher fat
content, which can result in less water content in that tissue of
the patient. Tissue having less water content can provide less
interference with the particular wavelengths that are absorbed in a
useful manner by blood analytes like glucose. Accordingly, in some
embodiments, the data collection system 1200 can be used on a
person's non-dominant hand or arm.
[0093] The data collection system 1200 can include a sensor 1201
(or multiple sensors) that is coupled to a processing device or
physiological monitor 1209. In an embodiment, the sensor 1201 and
the monitor 1209 are integrated together into a single unit. In
another embodiment, the sensor 1201 and the monitor 1209 are
separate from each other and communicate one with another in any
suitable manner, such as via a wired or wireless connection. The
sensor 1201 and monitor 1209 can be attachable and detachable from
each other for the convenience of the user or caregiver, for ease
of storage, sterility issues, or the like. The sensor 1201 and the
monitor 1209 will now be further described.
[0094] In the depicted embodiment shown in FIG. 12, the sensor 1201
includes an emitter 1204, an optional tissue shaper 1205, a set of
detectors 1206, and a front-end interface 1208. The emitter 1204
can serve as the source of optical radiation transmitted towards
measurement site 1202. As will be described in further detail
below, the emitter 1204 can include one or more sources of optical
radiation, such as LEDs, laser diodes, incandescent bulbs with
appropriate frequency-selective filters, combinations of the same,
or the like. In an embodiment, the emitter 1204 includes sets of
optical sources that are capable of emitting visible and
near-infrared optical radiation.
[0095] In some embodiments, the emitter 1204 is used as a point
optical source, and thus, the one or more optical sources of the
emitter 1204 can be located within a close distance to each other,
such as within about a 2 mm to about 4 mm. The emitters 1204 can be
arranged in an array, such as is described in U.S. Publication No.
2006/0211924, filed Sep. 21, 2006, titled "Multiple Wavelength
Sensor Emitters," the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by
reference in its entirety. In particular, the emitters 1204 can be
arranged at least in part as described in paragraphs [0061] through
[0068] of the aforementioned publication, which paragraphs are
hereby incorporated specifically by reference. Other relative
spatial relationships can be used to arrange the emitters 1204.
[0096] For analytes like glucose, currently available non-invasive
techniques often attempt to employ light near the water absorbance
minima at or about 1600 nm. Typically, these devices and methods
employ a single wavelength or single band of wavelengths at or
about 1600 nm. However, to date, these techniques have been unable
to adequately consistently measure analytes like glucose based on
spectroscopy.
[0097] In contrast, the emitter 1204 of the data collection system
1200 can emit, in certain embodiments, combinations of optical
radiation in various bands of interest. For example, in some
embodiments, for analytes like glucose, the emitter 1204 can emit
optical radiation at three (3) or more wavelengths between about
1600 nm to about 1700 nm. In particular, the emitter 1204 can emit
optical radiation at or about 1610 nm, about 1640 nm, and about
1665 nm. In some circumstances, the use of three wavelengths within
about 1600 nm to about 1700 nm enable sufficient SNRs of about 100
dB, which can result in a measurement accuracy of about 20 mg/dL or
better for analytes like glucose.
[0098] In other embodiments, the emitter 1204 can use two (2)
wavelengths within about 1600 nm to about 1700 nm to advantageously
enable SNRs of about 85 dB, which can result in a measurement
accuracy of about 25-30 mg/dL or better for analytes like glucose.
Furthermore, in some embodiments, the emitter 1204 can emit light
at wavelengths above about 1670 nm. Measurements at these
wavelengths can be advantageously used to compensate or confirm the
contribution of protein, water, and other non-hemoglobin species
exhibited in measurements for analytes like glucose conducted
between about 1600 nm and about 1700 nm. Of course, other
wavelengths and combinations of wavelengths can be used to measure
analytes and/or to distinguish other types of tissue, fluids,
tissue properties, fluid properties, combinations of the same or
the like.
[0099] For example, the emitter 1204 can emit optical radiation
across other spectra for other analytes. In particular, the emitter
1204 can employ light wavelengths to measure various blood analytes
or percentages (e.g., saturation) thereof. For example, in one
embodiment, the emitter 1204 can emit optical radiation in the form
of pulses at wavelengths of about 905 nm, about 1050 nm, about 1200
nm, about 1300 nm, about 1330 nm, about 1610 nm, about 1640 nm,
and/or about 1665 nm. In another embodiment, the emitter 1204 can
emit optical radiation ranging from about 860 nm to about 950 nm,
about 950 nm to about 1100 nm, about 1100 nm to about 1270 nm,
about 1250 nm to about 1350 nm, about 1300 nm to about 1360 nm,
and/or about 1590 nm to about 1700 nm. Of course, the emitter 1204
can transmit any of a variety of wavelengths of visible or
near-infrared optical radiation.
[0100] Due to the different responses of analytes to the different
wavelengths, certain embodiments of the data collection system 1200
can advantageously use the measurements at these different
wavelengths to improve the accuracy of measurements. For example,
the measurements of water from visible and infrared light can be
used to compensate for water absorbance that is exhibited in the
near-infrared wavelengths.
[0101] As briefly described above, the emitter 1204 can include
sets of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) as its optical source. The
emitter 1204 can use one or more top-emitting LEDs. In particular,
in some embodiments, the emitter 1204 can include top-emitting LEDs
emitting light at about 850 nm to 1350 nm.
[0102] The emitter 1204 can also use super luminescent LEDs (SLEDs)
or side-emitting LEDs. In some embodiments, the emitter 1204 can
employ SLEDs or side-emitting LEDs to emit optical radiation at
about 1600 nm to about 1800 nm. Emitter 1204 can use SLEDs or
side-emitting LEDs to transmit near infrared optical radiation
because these types of sources can transmit at high power or
relatively high power, e.g., about 40 mW to about 100 mW. This
higher power capability can be useful to compensate or overcome the
greater attenuation of these wavelengths of light in tissue and
water. For example, the higher power emission can effectively
compensate and/or normalize the absorption signal for light in the
mentioned wavelengths to be similar in amplitude and/or effect as
other wavelengths that can be detected by one or more
photodetectors after absorption. However, certain the embodiments
do not necessarily require the use of high power optical sources.
For example, some embodiments may be configured to measure
analytes, such as total hemoglobin (tHb), oxygen saturation
(SpO.sub.2), carboxyhemoglobin, methemoglobin, etc., without the
use of high power optical sources like side emitting LEDs. Instead,
such embodiments may employ other types of optical sources, such as
top emitting LEDs. Alternatively, the emitter 1204 can use other
types of sources of optical radiation, such as a laser diode, to
emit near-infrared light into the measurement site 1202.
[0103] In addition, in some embodiments, in order to assist in
achieving a comparative balance of desired power output between the
LEDs, some of the LEDs in the emitter 1204 can have a filter or
covering that reduces and/or cleans the optical radiation from
particular LEDs or groups of LEDs. For example, since some
wavelengths of light can penetrate through tissue relatively well,
LEDs, such as some or all of the top-emitting LEDs can use a filter
or covering, such as a cap or painted dye. This can be useful in
allowing the emitter 1204 to use LEDs with a higher output and/or
to equalize intensity of LEDs.
[0104] The data collection system 1200 also includes a driver 1211
that drives the emitter 1204. The driver 1211 can be a circuit or
the like that is controlled by the monitor 1209. For example, the
driver 1211 can provide pulses of current to the emitter 1204. In
an embodiment, the driver 1211 drives the emitter 1204 in a
progressive fashion, such as in an alternating manner. The driver
1211 can drive the emitter 1204 with a series of pulses of about 1
milliwatt (mW) for some wavelengths that can penetrate tissue
relatively well and from about 40 mW to about 100 mW for other
wavelengths that tend to be significantly absorbed in tissue. A
wide variety of other driving powers and driving methodologies can
be used in various embodiments.
[0105] The driver 1211 can be synchronized with other parts of the
sensor 1201 and can minimize or reduce jitter in the timing of
pulses of optical radiation emitted from the emitter 1204. In some
embodiments, the driver 1211 is capable of driving the emitter 1204
to emit optical radiation in a pattern that varies by less than
about 10 parts-per-million.
[0106] The detectors 1206 capture and measure light from the
measurement site 1202. For example, the detectors 1206 can capture
and measure light transmitted from the emitter 1204 that has been
attenuated or reflected from the tissue in the measurement site
1202. The detectors 1206 can output a detector signal 1207
responsive to the light captured or measured. The detectors 1206
can be implemented using one or more photodiodes, phototransistors,
or the like.
[0107] In addition, the detectors 1206 can be arranged with a
spatial configuration to provide a variation of path lengths among
at least some of the detectors 1206. That is, some of the detectors
1206 can have the substantially, or from the perspective of the
processing algorithm, effectively, the same path length from the
emitter 1204. However, according to an embodiment, at least some of
the detectors 1206 can have a different path length from the
emitter 1204 relative to other of the detectors 1206. Variations in
path lengths can be helpful in allowing the use of a bulk signal
stream from the detectors 1206. In some embodiments, the detectors
1206 may employ a linear spacing, a logarithmic spacing, or a two
or three dimensional matrix of spacing, or any other spacing scheme
in order to provide an appropriate variation in path lengths.
[0108] The front end interface 1208 provides an interface that
adapts the output of the detectors 1206, which is responsive to
desired physiological parameters. For example, the front end
interface 1208 can adapt a signal 1207 received from one or more of
the detectors 1206 into a form that can be processed by the monitor
1209, for example, by a signal processor 1210 in the monitor 1209.
The front end interface 1208 can have its components assembled in
the sensor 1201, in the monitor 1209, in connecting cabling (if
used), combinations of the same, or the like. The location of the
front end interface 1208 can be chosen based on various factors
including space desired for components, desired noise reductions or
limits, desired heat reductions or limits, and the like.
[0109] The front end interface 1208 can be coupled to the detectors
1206 and to the signal processor 1210 using a bus, wire, electrical
or optical cable, flex circuit, or some other form of signal
connection. The front end interface 1208 can also be at least
partially integrated with various components, such as the detectors
1206. For example, the front end interface 1208 can include one or
more integrated circuits that are on the same circuit board as the
detectors 1206. Other configurations can also be used.
[0110] The front end interface 1208 can be implemented using one or
more amplifiers, such as transimpedance amplifiers, that are
coupled to one or more analog to digital converters (ADCs) (which
can be in the monitor 1209), such as a sigma-delta ADC. A
transimpedance-based front end interface 1208 can employ
single-ended circuitry, differential circuitry, and/or a hybrid
configuration. A transimpedance-based front end interface 1208 can
be useful for its sampling rate capability and freedom in
modulation/demodulation algorithms. For example, this type of front
end interface 1208 can advantageously facilitate the sampling of
the ADCs being synchronized with the pulses emitted from the
emitter 1204.
[0111] The ADC or ADCs can provide one or more outputs into
multiple channels of digital information for processing by the
signal processor 1210 of the monitor 1209. Each channel can
correspond to a signal output from a detector 1206.
[0112] In some embodiments, a programmable gain amplifier (PGA) can
be used in combination with a transimpedance-based front end
interface 1208. For example, the output of a transimpedance-based
front end interface 1208 can be output to a PGA that is coupled
with an ADC in the monitor 1209. A PGA can be useful in order to
provide another level of amplification and control of the stream of
signals from the detectors 1206. Alternatively, the PGA and ADC
components can be integrated with the transimpedance-based front
end interface 1208 in the sensor 1201.
[0113] In another embodiment, the front end interface 1208 can be
implemented using switched-capacitor circuits. A
switched-capacitor-based front end interface 1208 can be useful
for, in certain embodiments, its resistor-free design and analog
averaging properties. In addition, a switched-capacitor-based front
end interface 1208 can be useful because it can provide a digital
signal to the signal processor 1210 in the monitor 1209.
[0114] As shown in FIG. 12, the monitor 1209 can include the signal
processor 1210 and a user interface, such as a display 1212. The
monitor 1209 can also include optional outputs alone or in
combination with the display 1212, such as a storage device 1214
and a network interface 1216. In an embodiment, the signal
processor 1210 includes processing logic that determines
measurements for desired analytes, such as glucose, based on the
signals received from the detectors 1206. The signal processor 1210
can be implemented using one or more microprocessors or
subprocessors (e.g., cores), digital signal processors, application
specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field programmable gate
arrays (FPGAs), combinations of the same, and the like.
[0115] The signal processor 1210 can provide various signals that
control the operation of the sensor 1201. For example, the signal
processor 1210 can provide an emitter control signal to the driver
1211. This control signal can be useful in order to synchronize,
minimize, or reduce jitter in the timing of pulses emitted from the
emitter 1204. Accordingly, this control signal can be useful in
order to cause optical radiation pulses emitted from the emitter
1204 to follow a precise timing and consistent pattern. For
example, when a transimpedance-based front end interface 1208 is
used, the control signal from the signal processor 1210 can provide
synchronization with the ADC in order to avoid aliasing,
cross-talk, and the like. As also shown, an optional memory 1213
can be included in the front-end interface 1208 and/or in the
signal processor 1210. This memory 1213 can serve as a buffer or
storage location for the front-end interface 1208 and/or the signal
processor 1210, among other uses.
[0116] The user interface 1212 can provide an output, e.g., on a
display, for presentation to a user of the data collection system
1200. The user interface 1212 can be implemented as a touch-screen
display, an LCD display, an organic LED display, or the like. In
addition, the user interface 1212 can be manipulated to allow for
measurement on the non-dominant side of patient. For example, the
user interface 1212 can include a flip screen, a screen that can be
moved from one side to another on the monitor 1209, or can include
an ability to reorient its display indicia responsive to user input
or device orientation. In alternative embodiments, the data
collection system 1200 can be provided without a user interface
1212 and can simply provide an output signal to a separate display
or system.
[0117] A storage device 1214 and a network interface 1216 represent
other optional output connections that can be included in the
monitor 1209. The storage device 1214 can include any
computer-readable medium, such as a memory device, hard disk
storage, EEPROM, flash drive, or the like. The various software
and/or firmware applications can be stored in the storage device
1214, which can be executed by the signal processor 1210 or another
processor of the monitor 1209. The network interface 1216 can be a
serial bus port (RS-232/RS-485), a Universal Serial Bus (USB) port,
an Ethernet port, a wireless interface (e.g., WiFi such as any
802.1x interface, including an internal wireless card), or other
suitable communication device(s) that allows the monitor 1209 to
communicate and share data with other devices. The monitor 1209 can
also include various other components not shown, such as a
microprocessor, graphics processor, or controller to output the
user interface 1212, to control data communications, to compute
data trending, or to perform other operations.
[0118] Although not shown in the depicted embodiment, the data
collection system 1200 can include various other components or can
be configured in different ways. For example, the sensor 1201 can
have both the emitter 1204 and detectors 1206 on the same side of
the measurement site 1202 and use reflectance to measure analytes.
The data collection system 1200 can also include a sensor that
measures the power of light emitted from the emitter 1204.
[0119] Depending on the embodiment, certain acts, events, or
functions of any of the algorithms described herein can be
performed in a different sequence, can be added, merged, or left
out all together (e.g., not all described acts or events are
necessary for the practice of the algorithm). Moreover, in certain
embodiments, acts or events can be performed concurrently, e.g.,
through multi-threaded processing, interrupt processing, or
multiple processors or processor cores, rather than
sequentially.
[0120] The various illustrative logical blocks, modules, and
algorithm steps described in connection with the embodiments
disclosed herein can be implemented as electronic hardware,
computer software, or combinations of both. To clearly illustrate
this interchangeability of hardware and software, various
illustrative components, blocks, modules, and steps have been
described above generally in terms of their functionality. Whether
such functionality is implemented as hardware or software depends
upon the particular application and design constraints imposed on
the overall system. The described functionality can be implemented
in varying ways for each particular application, but such
implementation decisions should not be interpreted as causing a
departure from the scope of the disclosure.
[0121] The various illustrative logical blocks and modules
described in connection with the embodiments disclosed herein can
be implemented or performed by a machine, such as a general purpose
processor, a digital signal processor (DSP), an application
specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmable gate array
(FPGA) or other programmable logic device, discrete gate or
transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination
thereof designed to perform the functions described herein. A
general purpose processor can be a microprocessor, but in the
alternative, the processor can be a processor, controller,
microcontroller, or state machine, combinations of the same, or the
like. A processor can also be implemented as a combination of
computing devices, e.g., a combination of a DSP and a
microprocessor, a plurality of microprocessors, one or more
microprocessors in conjunction with a DSP core, or any other such
configuration.
[0122] The steps of a method or algorithm described in connection
with the embodiments disclosed herein can be embodied directly in
hardware, in a software module executed by a processor, or in a
combination of the two. A software module can reside in RAM memory,
flash memory, ROM memory, EPROM memory, EEPROM memory, registers,
hard disk, a removable disk, a CD-ROM, or any other form of
processor-readable or computer-readable storage medium known in the
art. An exemplary storage medium can be coupled to the processor
such that the processor can read information from, and write
information to, the storage medium. In the alternative, the storage
medium can be integral to the processor. The processor and the
storage medium can reside in an ASIC. The ASIC can reside in a user
terminal. In the alternative, the processor and the storage medium
can reside as discrete components in a user terminal.
[0123] Conditional language used herein, such as, among others,
"can," "could," "might," "may," "e.g.," and the like, unless
specifically stated otherwise, or otherwise understood within the
context as used, is generally intended to convey that certain
embodiments include, while other embodiments do not include,
certain features, elements and/or states. Thus, such conditional
language is not generally intended to imply that features, elements
and/or states are in any way required for one or more embodiments
or that one or more embodiments necessarily include logic for
deciding, with or without author input or prompting, whether these
features, elements and/or states are included or are to be
performed in any particular embodiment.
[0124] While the above detailed description has shown, described,
and pointed out novel features as applied to various embodiments,
it will be understood that various omissions, substitutions, and
changes in the form and details of the devices or algorithms
illustrated can be made without departing from the spirit of the
disclosure. As will be recognized, certain embodiments of the
inventions described herein can be embodied within a form that does
not provide all of the features and benefits set forth herein, as
some features can be used or practiced separately from others. The
scope of certain inventions disclosed herein is indicated by the
appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. All
changes which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of
the claims are to be embraced within their scope.
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