U.S. patent application number 16/146897 was filed with the patent office on 2019-05-09 for modular sensor platform.
The applicant listed for this patent is Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.. Invention is credited to Lindsay Brown, Ram Fish, Frank Settemo Nuovo, Julien Penders, Sheldon George Phillips, James Schuessler, Tom Torfs.
Application Number | 20190133464 16/146897 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 53269918 |
Filed Date | 2019-05-09 |
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United States Patent
Application |
20190133464 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Fish; Ram ; et al. |
May 9, 2019 |
Modular Sensor Platform
Abstract
Exemplary embodiments comprise a modular sensor platform,
comprising: a base module comprising, a display, a processor, a
memory and a communication interface; a band removably coupled to
the base module such that the band is replaceable with different
types of bands; and a sensor module that collects data from a user,
the sensor module in communication with the base module and
removably coupled to the band such that the sensor module is
replaceable with different types of sensor modules, the sensor
module further comprising a plurality of sensor units that are
removably coupled to the sensor module such that individual sensor
units are replaceable with different types of sensor units.
Inventors: |
Fish; Ram; (San Jose,
CA) ; Schuessler; James; (San Jose, CA) ;
Penders; Julien; (Liege, BE) ; Brown; Lindsay;
(Mierlo, NL) ; Nuovo; Frank Settemo; (Los Angeles,
CA) ; Phillips; Sheldon George; (Glendale, CA)
; Torfs; Tom; (Kraainem, BE) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. |
Suwon-si |
|
KR |
|
|
Family ID: |
53269918 |
Appl. No.: |
16/146897 |
Filed: |
September 28, 2018 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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14286620 |
May 23, 2014 |
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16146897 |
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14101200 |
Dec 9, 2013 |
9380949 |
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14286620 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61B 5/0002 20130101;
A61B 5/02141 20130101; A61B 5/0533 20130101; A61B 5/681 20130101;
A61B 5/01 20130101; A61B 2560/0242 20130101; A61B 5/02055 20130101;
A61B 5/1118 20130101; A61B 5/14552 20130101; A61B 5/7278 20130101;
A61B 5/0402 20130101; A61B 2560/045 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A61B 5/0205 20060101
A61B005/0205; A61B 5/00 20060101 A61B005/00; A61B 5/1455 20060101
A61B005/1455 |
Claims
1. A device for measuring a physiological or other activity of a
user and being wearable on a body part of the user, the device
comprising: a band having an interior surface, an exterior surface
and a receptacle on the interior surface of the band; an
interchangeable sensor module configured to be removably insertable
into the receptacle, and configurable to be in contact with the
body part when the device is worn by the user, and further
comprising: a modular sensing circuitry comprising one or more
sensor units configured to receive data indicative of a
physiological or other activity of the user, wherein each of the
one or more sensor units is removably attached to the modular
sensor circuitry, and each of the one or more sensor units is
interchangeable with another sensor unit.
2. The device of claim 1, wherein the one or more sensor units are
configured to be snapped into place on the modular sensing
circuitry.
3. The device of claim 1, further comprising a sensor plate,
wherein the one or more sensor units are configured to be snapped
into place on the sensor plate.
4. The device of claim 3, wherein the sensor plate is removably
coupled to the band such that the sensor plate can be replaced with
a different sensor plate.
5. The device of claim 3, wherein the sensor plate is removably
coupled to the band and is sized to accommodate different sized
body parts.
6. The device of claim 3, wherein at least one of the one or more
sensor units is arranged non-uniformly in relation to the others of
the one or more sensor units on the sensor plate.
7. The device of claim 1, wherein the one or more sensor units
collect one or more of physiological, other activity and sleep data
from the user.
8. The device of claim 1, wherein the modular sensing circuitry is
replaceable with a new or different type of modular sensing
circuitry.
9. The device of claim 1, wherein the modular sensing circuitry is
arranged on the band so that the modular sensing circuitry
straddles a blood vessel.
10. The device of claim 1, wherein the modular sensing circuitry
further includes a sensor computing unit coupled to the one or more
sensor units.
11. The device of claim 10, wherein the sensor computing unit
further comprises one or more of an electrocardiogram (ECG) and
bioimpedance (BIOZ) analog front end (AFE), a galvanic skin
response (GSR) AFE, an optical sensor AFE, a processor, and
analog-to-digital converter (ADC), a memory, a three-axis
accelerometer, a pressure sensor and a battery.
12. The device of claim 1, further comprising a base module,
wherein the base module further includes a base computing unit that
includes a processor, a memory, a communication interface and a set
of sensors including an accelerometer and thermometer.
13. The device of claim 12, wherein at least one the one or more
sensor units comprises a microelectromechanical systems (MEMS)
sensor to measure positional information for use by the base
module.
14. The device of claim 1, wherein the receptacle further comprises
an interface receptacle located on an interior side of a backplate
configured to receive the modular sensing circuitry.
15. The device of claim 14, wherein the interface receptacle is a
micro-USB-type receptacle.
16. The device of claim 15, wherein the interface receptacle is a
centrally located in the backplate.
17. The device of claim 1, wherein the interchangeable sensor
module comprises one or more light sources disposed on the interior
surface adjacent to the modular sensing circuitry, wherein the one
or more plurality of light sources are configured to emit lights
onto the body part.
18. The device of claim 17, wherein the modular sensing circuitry
is configured to receive reflective photoplethysmography (PPG)
signal of the user, wherein the reflective PPG signal comprises an
emitted light reflected off the body part.
19. A system for measuring a physiological or other activity of a
user and being wearable on a body part of a user, the system
comprising: a band configurable to be fitted over the body part,
and having an interior surface configured to contact the body part
when worn by the user; an interface disposed in the interior
surface; and a plurality of interchangeable sensor modules, each of
the sensor modules being configured to receive data indicative of a
physiological or other activity of the user, being removably
disposed on the interior surface, and being detachably engagable
with the interface.
20. The system of claim 19, wherein one or more of the plurality of
sensor modules is generally contoured to a shape of the body
part.
21. The system of claim 19, wherein each of the plurality of sensor
modules further comprises one or more sensor units, the one or more
sensor units are removable and comprise one or more of biological
sensors, proximity detectors and environmental sensors.
22. The system of claim 19, further comprising an electrocardiogram
(ECG) electrode, wherein the one or more sensor units and the ECG
electrode form a complete ECG circuit that measures electrical
activity of a user's heart over period of time.
23. The system of claim 19, further comprising a base module
configured to communicate wirelessly with the plurality of
interchangeable sensor modules and other sensor modules located on
different parts of the user to form a body area network.
24. The system of claim 19, further comprising a base module
configured to communicate wirelessly with wirelessly accessible
devices.
25. The system of claim 19, further comprising a base module
configured to communicate with a cloud-based database platform in a
multi-modal interaction architecture.
26. The system of claim 19, wherein the interface is configured to
communicate with one or more of the plurality of interchangeable
sensor modules.
27. The system of claim 19, further comprising a sensor plate
having one or more of the plurality of interchangeable sensor
modules thereon, and wherein the sensor plate is detachably
attached to the band.
28. The system of claim 19, further comprising a base module,
wherein the base module further includes a base computing unit that
includes a processor, a memory, a communication interface and a set
of sensors including an accelerometer and thermometer.
29. The system of claim 28, wherein the base module is configured
to: receive data from the one or more of the plurality of
interchangeable sensor modules, and process the received data to
form a predefined representation of a signal.
30. The system of claim 28, wherein the interface is configured to
communicate with the base module.
31. The system of claim 19, further comprising a sensor computing
unit coupled to one or more of the plurality of interchangeable
sensor modules, wherein the plurality of interchangeable sensor
modules further comprises any combination of optical sensor array,
a thermometer, a galvanic skin response (GSR) sensor array, a
bioimpedance (BioZ) sensor array, and an electrocardiography sensor
(ECG) sensor.
Description
RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] The present application is a continuation application of,
and claims priority to U.S. application Ser. No. 14/286,620, filed
May 23, 2014, and also is a continuation-in-part application of,
and claims priority to U.S. application Ser. No. 14/101,200, filed
Dec. 9, 2013, issued as U.S. Pat. No. 9,380,949 on Jul. 5, 2016,
and also claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No.
61/984,694, filed Apr. 25, 2014, all of which are incorporated
herein by reference in their entirety.
BACKGROUND
[0002] The invention relates to modular sensor platform, and more
particularly, to a modular sensor platform in a device wearable on
a wrist of an individual.
[0003] Wearable devices are becoming increasingly popular. For
example, wearable devices equipped with sensors are known that may
track user data such as activity data (duration, step count,
calories burned), sleep statistics, and/or physiological data
(e.g., heart rate, perspiration and skin temperature). Typically,
sensor-equipped wearable devices are implemented as bands or
watches that may be worn on the user's wrist.
[0004] However, conventional wearable sensor devices require the
user discard or replace the entire device due to a loss of
function, even if the loss is caused by a relatively minor
component, such as a sensor that becomes worn out due to normal
wear. Users also often replace the device when a new device with
new or different tracking functions becomes available.
[0005] Accordingly, what is needed is an improved architecture for
wearable sensor devices that can accommodate both replacement and
addition of sensor functionality.
BRIEF SUMMARY
[0006] Certain embodiments of the present invention provide a
portable power source for charging an electronic device wearable
over a wrist of a user.
[0007] The exemplary embodiment provides a modular sensor platform.
Aspects of exemplary embodiment include a base module comprising, a
display, a processor, a memory and a communication interface; a
band removably coupled to the base module such that the band is
replaceable with different types of bands; and a sensor module that
collects data from a user, the sensor module in communication with
the base module and removably coupled to the band such that the
sensor module is replaceable with different types of sensor
modules, the sensor module further comprising a plurality of sensor
units that are removably coupled to the sensor module such that
individual sensor units are replaceable with different types of
sensor units.
[0008] According to the method and system disclosed herein, the
exemplary embodiments provide a platform whereby a plurality of
different sensor modules may be sold and manufactured by different
entities. These entities may make different types of sensor modules
for different use cases. The modular sensor platform of the
exemplary embodiments therefore enables different types of base
modules, bands, and sensor units to be manufactured and sold
separately. The result is that users may be allowed to mix and
match different combinations of base modules, sensor modules, bands
and sensor units to suit their needs.
[0009] In one embodiment, the invention provides a device for
measuring data indicative of a physiological activity of a user and
is wearable on a body part of the user. The system includes a band
that can be fitted over the body part, and has an interior surface
contacting the body part when worn by the user. The device also
includes a modular sensing circuitry that is removably disposed on
the interior surface, and can be in contact with the body part. The
system also includes a plurality of multi-spectral light sources
disposed on the interior surface adjacent the modular sensing
circuitry to emit multi-spectral lights onto the body part. The
modular sensing circuitry receives data indicative of a
photoplethysmogram (PPG) signal of the user.
[0010] In another embodiment, the invention provides a device for
measuring a physiological activity of a user and is wearable on a
body part of the user. The device includes a band that can be
fitted over the body part. The band has an interior surface
contacting the body part when worn by the user. The device also
includes modular sensing circuitry that is removably disposed on
the interior surface. The modular sensing circuitry can also be
configurable to contact the body part. The device also includes a
sensor on the exterior surface to receive data indicative of an
electrocardiogram (ECG) signal of the user with the modular sensing
circuitry. The device also includes a plurality of light sources on
the interior surface adjacent the modular sensing circuitry to emit
lights onto the body part. The modular sensing circuitry receives
data indicative of a photoplethysmography (PPG) signal of the user.
The device includes a processor disposed on the band to derive data
indicative of blood pressure of the user from the ECG signal and
the PPG signal.
[0011] In yet another embodiment, the invention provides a device
for measuring a physiological activity of a user that is wearable
on a body part of a user. The device includes a band that is
configurable to be fitted over the wrist. The band has an interior
surface contacting the body part when worn by the user. The device
also includes modular sensing circuitry that is removably disposed
on the interior surface to measure the physiological activity of
the user. The modular sensing circuitry includes a plurality of
individual sensors to measure the physiological activity. The
plurality of individual sensors are generally contoured to the
shape of the body part.
[0012] In yet another embodiment, the invention provides a system
for measuring a physiological activity of a user that is wearable
on a body part of a user. The system includes a band that is
configurable to be fitted over the body part. The band also has an
interior surface contacting the body part when worn by the user.
The system includes an interface disposed in the interior surface,
and a plurality of sensor modules. Each of the sensor modules
receives data indicative of a physiological activity of the user,
and is removably disposed on the interior surface, and detachably
engagable with the interface.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS
[0013] The features and utilities described in the foregoing brief
summary, as well as the following detailed description of certain
embodiments of the present general inventive concept below, will be
better understood when read in conjunction with the accompanying
drawings of which:
[0014] FIGS. 1 and 2 are block diagrams illustrating exemplary
embodiments of a modular sensor platform.
[0015] FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating one embodiment of the
modular sensor platform and components comprising the base
module.
[0016] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional illustration of the wrist with a
band mounted sensor in contact for an embodiment used about the
wrist.
[0017] FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating another embodiment of a
modular sensor platform with a self-aligning sensor array system in
relation to use about the wrist.
[0018] FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating components of the
sensor module.
[0019] FIG. 7 illustrates another embodiment of a modular wearable
sensor platform showing an interior surface.
[0020] FIG. 8 illustrates an exemplary modular sensing circuitry in
accordance with embodiments of the present invention.
[0021] FIG. 8A illustrates an interface receptacle showing an
exemplary interface in accordance with embodiments of the present
invention.
[0022] FIG. 9 illustrates an exemplary complementary
metal-oxide-semiconductor ("CMOS") sensor module in accordance with
embodiments of the present invention.
[0023] FIG. 10 illustrates another exemplary modular sensing
circuitry in accordance with embodiments of the present
invention.
[0024] FIG. 11 illustrates an operational flow chart of a sensing
process for measuring data of a predefined area in accordance with
embodiments of the present invention.
[0025] FIG. 12 illustrates an operational flow chart of a
measurement process for measuring data indicative of blood pressure
of an individual in accordance with embodiments of the present
invention.
[0026] FIG. 13 illustrates an operational flow chart of a
measurement process for measuring data indicative of blood pressure
of an individual.
[0027] For the purpose of illustrating the general inventive
concept of the invention, certain embodiments are shown in the
drawings. It should be understood, however, that the present
invention is not limited to the arrangements and instrumentality
shown in the attached drawings.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0028] Reference will now be made in detail to the embodiments of
the present general inventive concept, examples of which are
illustrated in the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference
numerals refer to the like elements throughout. The embodiments are
described below in order to explain the present general inventive
concept while referring to the figures.
[0029] Before any embodiments of the invention are explained in
detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in
its application to the details of construction and the arrangement
of components set forth in the following description or illustrated
in the drawings.
[0030] Advantages and features of the present invention and methods
of accomplishing the same may be understood more readily by
reference to the following detailed description and the drawings.
The present general inventive concept may, however, be embodied in
many different forms of being practiced or of being carried out in
various ways and should not be construed as being limited to the
embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are
provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete and
will fully convey the general inventive concept to those skilled in
the art, and the present general inventive concept is defined by
the appended claims. In the drawings, the thickness of layers and
regions are exaggerated for visual clarity.
[0031] Also, the phraseology and terminology used in this document
are for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as
limiting. The use of the terms "a" and "an" and "the" and similar
referents in the context of describing the invention (especially in
the context of the following claims) are to be construed to cover
both the singular and the plural, unless otherwise indicated herein
or clearly contradicted by context. The terms "comprising,"
"having," "including," and "containing" are to be construed as
open-ended terms (i.e., meaning "including, but not limited to,")
unless otherwise noted.
[0032] As should also be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the
art, the systems shown in the figures are models of what actual
systems might be like. Some of the modules and logical structures
described are capable of being implemented in software executed by
a microprocessor or a similar device, or of being implemented in
hardware using a variety of components including, for example,
application specific integrated circuits ("ASICs"). A term like
"processor" may include or refer to both hardware and/or software.
No specific meaning is implied or should be inferred simply due to
the use of capitalization.
[0033] Likewise, the term "component" or "module", as used herein,
means, but is not limited to, a software or hardware component,
such as a field programmable gate array (FPGA) or ASIC, which
performs certain tasks. A component or module may advantageously be
configured to reside in the addressable storage medium and
configured to execute on one or more processors. Thus, a component
or module may include, by way of example, components, such as
software components, object-oriented software components, class
components and task components, processes, functions, attributes,
procedures, subroutines, segments of program code, drivers,
firmware, microcode, circuitry, data, databases, data structures,
tables, arrays, and variables. The functionality provided for the
components and components or modules may be combined into fewer
components and components or modules or further separated into
additional components and components or modules.
[0034] Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms
used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of
ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. Further,
unless defined otherwise, all terms defined in generally used
dictionaries should have their ordinary meaning. It is noted that
the use of any and all examples, or exemplary terms provided herein
is intended merely to better illuminate the general inventive
concept and is not a limitation on the scope of the invention
unless otherwise specified.
[0035] Exemplary embodiments provide a modular sensor platform.
Aspects of exemplary embodiment include a base module comprising, a
display, a processor, a memory and a communication interface; a
band removably coupled to the base module such that the band is
replaceable with different types of bands; and a sensor module that
collects data from a user. In one embodiment, the sensor module may
be removably coupled to the band such that the sensor module is
replaceable with different types of sensor modules. In another
embodiment, the sensor module comprises a plurality of sensor units
that may be removably coupled to the sensor module such that
individual sensor units are replaceable with different types of
sensor units.
[0036] According to the method and system disclosed herein, a
modular sensor platform is provided that enables different types of
base modules, bands, and sensor units to be manufactured and sold
separately by different entities for different use cases. The
result is that users may be allowed to mix and match different
combinations of base modules, sensor modules, bands and sensor
units to suit their needs. Furthermore, developers or researchers
in fields related to physiological sensing benefit by focusing
development on the sensor itself and utilizing a standard support
platform that supplies power, computation and communication in a
known configuration.
[0037] Embodiments of the invention relate to a system for
measuring data indicative of a physiological activity of a
user.
[0038] FIGS. 1 and 2 are block diagrams illustrating exemplary
embodiments of a modular sensor platform. The modular sensor
platform 10 may include a base module 18, a band 12, and a sensor
module 16 coupled to the band 12.
[0039] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the modular sensor
platform 10 may be implemented as a wearable sensor device, such as
a smart watch that fits on a user's wrist. The sensor module 16 may
be positioned within the band 12, such that the sensor module 16 is
located at the bottom of the user's wrist in contact with the
user's skin to collect physiological data from the user. The base
module 18 attaches to the band 12 such that the base module 18 is
positioned on top of the wrist and performs functions such as
displaying time, performing calculations and displaying data
including sensor data collected from the sensor module 16. In one
embodiment, the band 12 may be integrated with the base module 18.
In another embodiment, the band 12 may be integrated with the
sensor module 16. In a further embodiment, the band 12 may be
separate from both the base module 18 and the sensor module 16.
[0040] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 2, the base module 18 may
comprise a display 26 and a base computing unit 20. As will be
discussed more fully with respect to FIG. 2, the base computing
unit 20 may include a processor, memory, a communication interface
and a set of sensors, such as an accelerometer and thermometer, for
instance.
[0041] The modular sensor platform 10 enables components of the
platform to be easily exchanged with different types of components.
For example, in one embodiment, the band 12 may be removably
coupled to the base module 18 so that the band 12 is replaceable
with a different type of band (e.g., different size, different
shape, and/or different materials). Replacement bands may be made
by the same or different entities of original band 12. In one
embodiment, the band 12 may include a hollow portion for insertion
of the base computing unit 20 of the base module 18.
[0042] In a further embodiment, the sensor module 16 collects
physiological, activity data, and/or sleep statistics from a user
and is in communication with the base module 18. The sensor module
16 may be removably coupled to the band 12 such that the sensor
module 16 is replaceable with different types of sensor
modules.
[0043] In one embodiment, the sensor module 16 may further comprise
a plurality of sensor units 28 that are removably coupled to the
sensor module 16 such that at least a portion of individual sensor
units 28 are replaceable with different types of sensor units.
[0044] In one embodiment, the sensor units 28 may be housed on a
sensor plate 30. According to one embodiment, the sensor plate 30
may be removably coupled to the band 12, such that the sensor plate
30 and all the sensor units 28 thereon may be replaced with a
different type of sensor plate 30. For example, the sensor plate 30
may be replaced with a different sized sensor plate 30 to
accommodate a different sized wrist. In one embodiment, replacement
sensor plates 30 may be provided by the same or a different entity
than the original sensor plate 30.
[0045] According to one aspect of the exemplary embodiment, at
least portion of the sensor units 28 may be further removably
coupled to the sensor plate 30 so that the sensor units 28 may be
individually replaced with new or different types of sensor units.
For example, with electrode-type sensors, the electrodes may wear
out over time. Rather than having to buy an entire new smart watch,
the user may simply replace worn-out sensor units 28 with new ones
by inserting new sensor units 28 into the existing sensor plate
30.
[0046] In another embodiment, the sensor plate 30 may be removed
from the band 12 so that the existing sensor plate 30 may be used
with a different type of band 12. For example, the sensor plate 30
may be removed from a plastic band 12 that is worn during the day
and inserted into a felt band that may be worn during sleep. In yet
another embodiment, the sensor plate 30 may be removed from the
band 12 and replaced with a sensor plate 30 having different types
of sensor units 28, including different sized sensor units 28 or
sensor units 28 that are spaced differently on the sensor plate
30.
[0047] In one embodiment, the sensor plate 30 may be affixed to the
band 12 using any number of know mechanisms. For example, in one
embodiment, the sensor plate 30 may be affixed to the band 12 via a
snap mechanism (e.g., tabs, slots, magnets and the like). In an
alternative embodiment, the sensor plate 30 may be affixed to the
band 12 via screws.
[0048] As shown in FIG. 2, in one embodiment, the modular sensor
platform 10 further includes at least one battery 22. In one
embodiment, the battery 22 may be housed within the base module 18.
In another embodiment, the battery 22 may be housed within the band
12.
[0049] Accordingly, a plurality of different sensor modules may be
sold and manufactured by different entities. That is, different
entities may make different types of sensor modules for different
use cases. The modular sensor platform of the exemplary embodiments
therefore enable different types of base modules, bands, sensor
plates and sensor units to be manufactured and sold separately.
Consequently, a modular sensor platform is provided that enables
users to mix and match different combinations of base modules,
sensor modules, bands and sensor units to suit their needs.
[0050] According to a further aspect of the exemplary embodiment, a
user may wear one base module 18 that wirelessly communicates with
multiple sensor modules 16 worn on different body parts of the user
to form a body area network. Data collected by each of the sensor
modules 16 could be bursts to the base module 18 periodically for
storage and/or analysis when the base module 18 is in an active
mode. Transferring the sensor data only periodically allows the
base module 18 to be placed in sleep mode more often to save power.
Alternatively, the data could be continually streamed from the
sensor modules 16 to the base module 18 if the base module 18
remains in active mode.
[0051] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the wearable sensor
platform 10 may be implemented as a smart watch or other wearable
device that fits on part of a body, here a user's wrist.
[0052] The wearable sensor platform 10 may also include a clasp 34
coupled to the band 12. In some embodiments, the modules and/or
components of the wearable sensor platform 10 may be removable by
an end user (e.g., a consumer, a patient, a doctor, etc.). However,
in other embodiments, the modules and/or components of the wearable
sensor platform 10 are integrated into the wearable sensor platform
10 by the manufacturer and may not be intended to be removed by the
end user. The wearable sensor platform 10 may be waterproof or
water sealed.
[0053] The band or strap 12 may be one piece or modular. The band
12 may be made of a fabric. For example, a wide range of twistable
and expandable elastic mesh/textiles are contemplated. The band 12
may also be configured as a multi-band or in modular links. The
band 12 may include a latch or a clasp mechanism to retain the
watch in place in certain implementations. In certain embodiments,
the band 12 will contain wiring (not shown) connecting, among other
things, the base module 18 and sensor module 16. Wireless
communication, alone or in combination with wiring, between base
module 18 and sensor module 16 is also contemplated.
[0054] The sensor module 16 may be removably attached on the band
12, such that the sensor module 16 is located at the bottom of the
wearable sensor platform 10 or, said another way, on the opposite
end of the base module 18. Positioning the sensor module 16 in such
a way to place it in at least partial contact with the skin on the
underside of the user's wrist to allow the sensor units 28 to sense
physiological data from the user. The contacting surface(s) of the
sensor units 28 may be positioned above, at or below, or some
combination such positioning, the surface of the sensor module
16.
[0055] The base module 18 attaches to the band 12 such that the
base module 18 is positioned at top of the wearable sensor platform
10. Positioning the base module 18 in such a way to place it in at
least partial contact with the top side of the wrist.
[0056] The base module 18 may include a base computing unit 20 and
a display 26 on which a graphical user interface (GUI) may be
provided. The base module 18 performs functions including, for
example, displaying time, performing calculations and/or displaying
data, including sensor data collected from the sensor module 16. In
addition to communication with the sensor module 16, the base
module 18 may wirelessly communicate with other sensor module(s)
(not shown) worn on different body parts of the user to form a body
area network, or with other wirelessly accessible devices (not
shown), like a smartphone, tablet, display or other computing
device. As will be discussed more fully below with respect to FIG.
3, the base computing unit 20 may include a processor 36, memory
38, input/output 40, a communication interface 42, a battery 22 and
a set of sensors 44, such as an accelerometer/gyroscope 46 and
thermometer 48. In other embodiments, the base module 18 can also
have other sizes, cases, and/or form factors, such as, for example,
oversized, in-line, round, rectangular, square, oval, Carre,
Carage, Tonneau, asymmetrical, and the like.
[0057] The sensor module 16 collects data (e.g., physiological,
activity data, sleep statistics and/or other data), from a user and
is in communication with the base module 18. The sensor module 16
includes sensor units 28 housed in a sensor plate 30. For certain
implementations, because a portable device, such as a wristwatch,
has a very small volume and limited battery power, sensor units 28
of the type disclosed may be particularly suited for implementation
of a sensor measurement in a wristwatch. In some embodiments, the
sensor module 16 is adjustably attached to the band 12 such that
the base module 18 is not fixedly positioned, but can be configured
differently depending on the physiological make-up of the
wrist.
[0058] The sensor units 28 may include an optical sensor array, a
thermometer, a galvanic skin response (GSR) sensor array, a
bioimpedance (BioZ) sensor array, an electrocardiogram (ECG)
sensor, or any combination thereof. The sensors units 28 may take
information about the outside world and supply it to the wearable
modular sensor platform 10. The sensors 28 can also function with
other components to provide user or environmental input and
feedback to a user. For example, a MEMS accelerometer may be used
to measure information such as position, motion, tilt, shock, and
vibration for use by processor 36. Other sensor(s) may also be
employed. The sensor module 16 may also include a sensor computing
unit 32. The sensor units 28 may also include biological sensors
(e.g., pulse, pulse oximetry, body temperature, blood pressure,
body fat, etc.), proximity detector for detecting the proximity of
objects, and environmental sensors (e.g., temperature, humidity,
ambient light, pressure, altitude, compass, etc.).
[0059] In other embodiments, the clasp 34 also provides an ECG
electrode. One or more sensor units 28 and the ECG electrode on the
clasp 34 can form a complete ECG signal circuit when the clasp 34
is touched. The sensor computing unit 32 may analyze data, perform
operations (e.g., calculations) on the data, communicate data and,
in some embodiments, may store the data collected by the sensor
units 28. In some embodiments, the sensor computing unit 32
receives (for example, data indicative of an ECG signal) from one
or more of the sensors of the sensor units 28, and processes the
received data to form a predefined representation of a signal (for
example, an ECG signal).
[0060] The sensor computing unit 32 can also be configured to
communicate the data and/or a processed form of the received data
to one or more predefined recipients, for example, the base
computing unit 20, for further processing, display, communication,
and the like. For example, in certain implementations the base
computing unit 20 and/or sensor computing unit determine whether
data is reliable and determine an indication of confidence in the
data to the user.
[0061] In some embodiments, the sensor computing unit 32 may be
integrated into the sensor plate 30. In other embodiments, the
sensor computing unit 32 may be omitted or located elsewhere on the
wearable sensor platform 10 or remotely from the wearable sensor
platform 10. In an embodiment where the sensor computing unit 32
may be omitted, the base computing unit 20 may perform functions
that would otherwise be performed by the sensor computing unit 32.
Through the combination of the sensor module 16 and base module 18,
data may be collected, transmitted, stored, analyzed, transmitted
and presented to a user.
[0062] In some embodiments, the clasp 34 is disposed closer to the
display/GUI 26. Similarly, in FIG. 2, the battery 22 is housed with
the base module 18. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the battery
22 is housed on the band 12, opposite to the display 26. However,
it should be understood that, in some embodiments, the battery 22
charges the base module 18 and optionally an internal battery (not
shown) of the base module 18. In this way, the wearable sensor
platform 10 may be worn continuously. Thus, in various embodiments,
the locations and/or functions of the modules and other components
may be changed.
[0063] FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating one embodiment of the
modular sensor platform and components comprising the base module.
In this embodiment, the modular sensor platform 10 may include a
removable band 12, and a removable sensor module 16 attached to
removable band 12. The removable sensor module 16 may further
include a removable sensor plate 30 attached to the removable band
12, and removable sensor units 28 attached to the removable sensor
plate 30. The removable sensor module 16 may also include a sensor
computer unit 32.
[0064] The modular sensor platform 10 further comprises a base
computing unit 20, a removable battery 22 and a permanent battery
23. In one embodiment, the base computing unit 20 may communicate
with the sensor computer 32 through a communication interface 42.
In one embodiment, the communications interface 205 may comprise a
serial interface.
[0065] The base computing unit 20 may include a processor 36, a
memory 38, input/output (I/O) 40, a display 26, a communication
interface 42, sensors 44, and a power management unit 88.
[0066] The processor 36, the memory 38, the I/O 40, the
communication interface 42 and the sensors 44 may be coupled
together via a system bus (not shown). The processor 36 may include
a single processor having one or more cores, or multiple processors
having one or more cores. The processor 36 may execute an operating
system (OS) and various applications 90. Examples of the OS may
include, but not limited to, Linux and Android.TM., Tizen OS.
[0067] The memory 38 may comprise one or more memories comprising
different memory types, including DRAM, SRAM, ROM, cache, virtual
memory and flash memory, for example. The I/O 40 may comprise a
collection of components that input information and output
information. Example components comprising the I/O 40 include a
microphone and speaker. The communication interface 42 may include
a wireless network interface controller (or similar component) for
wireless communication over a network. In one embodiment, example
types of wireless communication may include Bluetooth Low Energy
(BLE) and WLAN (wireless local area network). However, in another
embodiment, example types of wireless communication may include a
WAN (Wide Area Network) interface, or a cellular network such as
3G, 4G or LTE (Long Term Evolution). In the embodiment shown in
FIG. 3, the memory 38 is external to the processor 36. In other
embodiments, the memory 38 can be an internal memory embedded in
the processor 36.
[0068] In one embodiment, the display 26 may be integrated with the
base computing unit 20, while in another embodiment, the display 26
may be external from the base computing unit 20. The sensors 44 may
include any type of microelectromechanical systems (MEMs) sensor,
such as an accelerometer/gyroscope 46 and a thermometer 48, for
instance.
[0069] The power management unit 88 may be coupled to the removable
battery 22 and the permanent battery 23 and may comprise a
microcontroller that governs power functions of the base computing
unit 20. In one embodiment, the power management unit 88 may also
control the supply of battery power to the removable sensor module
16 via power interface 52.
[0070] The communication interface 42 may include components for
supporting one-way or two-way wireless communications and may
include a wireless network interface controller (or similar
component) for wireless communication over a network in some
implementations, a wired interface in other implementations, or
multiple interfaces. In one embodiment, the communication interface
42 is for primarily receiving data remotely, including streaming
data, which is displayed and updated on the display 26. However, in
an alternative embodiment, besides transmitting data, the
communication interface 42 could also support voice transmission.
In an exemplary embodiment, the communication interface 42 supports
low and intermediate power radio frequency (RF) communications. In
certain implementations, example types of wireless communication
may include Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), WLAN (wireless local area
network), WiMAX, passive radio-frequency identification (RFID),
network adapters and modems. However, in another embodiment,
example types of wireless communication may include a WAN (Wide
Area Network) interface, Wi-Fi, WPAN, multi-hop networks, or a
cellular network such as 3G, 4G, 5G or LTE (Long Term Evolution).
Other wireless options may include ultra-wide band (UWB) and
infrared, for example. The communication interface 42 may also
include other types of communications devices (not shown) besides
wireless, such as serial communications via contacts and/or USB
communications. For example, a micro USB-type USB, flash drive, or
other wired connection may be used with the communication interface
42.
[0071] In one embodiment, the display 26 may be integrated with the
base computing unit 20; while in another embodiment, the display 26
may be external from the base computing unit 20. Display 26 may be
flat or curved, e.g., curved to the approximate curvature of the
body part on which the wearable sensor module platform 10 is
located (e.g., a wrist, an ankle, a head, etc.).
[0072] Display 26 may be a touch screen or gesture controlled. The
display 26 may be an OLED (Organic Light Emitting Diode) display,
TFT LCD (Thin-Film-Transistor Liquid Crystal Display), or other
appropriate display technology. The display 26 may be
active-matrix. An example display 26 may be an AMOLED display or
SLCD. The display may be 3D or flexible. The sensors 44 may include
any type of microelectromechanical systems (MEMs) sensor. Such
sensors may include an accelerometer/gyroscope 46 and a thermometer
48, for instance.
[0073] The power management unit 88 may be coupled to the power
source 22 and may comprise a microcontroller that communicates
and/or controls power functions of at least the base computing unit
20. Power management unit 88 communicates with the processor 36 and
coordinates power management. In some embodiments, the power
management unit 88 determines if a power level falls below a
certain threshold level. In other embodiments, the power management
unit 88 determines if an amount of time has elapsed for secondary
charging.
[0074] The power source 22 may be a permanent or removable battery,
fuel cell or photo voltage cell, etc. The battery 22 may be
disposable. In one embodiment, the power source 22 may comprise a
rechargeable, lithium ion battery or the like may be used, for
example. The power management unit 88 may include a voltage
controller and a charging controller for recharging the battery 22.
In some implementations, one or more solar cells may be used as a
power source 22. The power source 22 may also be powered or charged
by AC/DC power supply. The power source 22 may charge by
non-contact or contact charging. In one embodiment, the power
management unit 88 may also communicate and/or control the supply
of battery power to the removable sensor module 16 via power
interface 52. In some embodiments, the battery 22 is embedded in
the base computing unit 20. In other embodiments, the battery 22 is
external to the base computing unit 20.
[0075] Other wearable device configurations may also be used. For
example, the wearable sensor module platform can be implemented as
a leg or arm band, a chest band, a wristwatch, an article of
clothing worn by the user such as a snug fitting shirt, or any
other physical device or collection of devices worn by the user
that is sufficient to ensure that the sensor units 28 are in
contact with approximate positions on the user's skin to obtain
accurate and reliable data.
[0076] FIG. 4 is a diagram of a cross section of a wrist 14. More
specifically, by way of example, FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating
an implementation of a wearable sensor module 10. The top portion
of FIG. 5 illustrates the wearable sensor module 10 wrapped around
a cross-section of a user's wrist 14, while the bottom portion of
FIG. 5 shows the band 12 in an flattened position.
[0077] According to this embodiment, the wearable sensor module 10
includes at least an optical sensor array 54, and may also include
optional sensors, such as a galvanic skin response (GSR) sensor
array 56, a bioimpedance (BioZ) sensor array 58, and an
electrocardiogram (ECG) sensor 60, or any combination of which may
comprise a sensor array.
[0078] According to another embodiment, the sensor units 28
configured as a sensor array(s) comprising an array of discrete
sensors that are arranged or laid out on the band 12, such that
when the band 12 is worn on a body part, each sensor array may
straddle or otherwise address a particular blood vessel (i.e., a
vein, artery, or capillary), or an area with higher electrical
response irrespective of the blood vessel.
[0079] More particularly, as can be seen in FIGS. 4 and 5, the
sensor array may be laid out substantially perpendicular to a
longitudinal axis of the blood vessel (e.g., radial artery 14R
and/or ulnar artery 14U) and overlaps a width of the blood vessel
to obtain an optimum signal. In one embodiment, the band 12 may be
worn so that the sensor units 28 comprising the sensor array(s)
contact the user's skin, but not so tightly that the band 12 is
prevented from any movement over the body part, such as the user's
wrist 14, or creates discomfort for the user at sensor contact
points.
[0080] In another embodiment, the sensor units 28 may comprise an
optical sensor array 54 that may comprise a photoplethysmograph
(PPG) sensor array that may measures relative blood flow, pulse
and/or blood oxygen level. In this embodiment, the optical sensor
array 54 may be arranged on sensor module 16 so that the optical
sensor array 54 is positioned in sufficient proximity to an artery,
such as the radial or ulnar artery, to take adequate measurements
with sufficient accuracy and reliability.
[0081] Further details of the optical sensor array 54 will now be
discussed. In general, configuration and layout of each of a
plurality of discrete optical sensors 55 may vary greatly depending
on use cases. In one embodiment, the optical sensor array 54 may
include an array of discrete optical sensors 55, where each
discrete optical sensor 55 is a combination of at least one
photodetector 62 and at least two matching light sources 64 located
adjacent to the photodetector 62. In one embodiment, each of the
discrete optical sensors 55 may be separated from its neighbor on
the band 12 by a predetermined distance of approximately 0.5 to 2
mm.
[0082] In one embodiment, the light sources 64 may each comprise a
light emitting diode (LED), where LEDs in each of the discrete
optical sensors emit light of a different wavelength. In this
regard, the wavelengths of some of the LED's are greater than the
wavelengths of other LED's. Example light colors emitted by the
LEDs may include green, red, near infrared, and infrared
wavelengths. Each of the photodetectors 62 convert received light
energy into an electrical signal. In one embodiment, the signals
may comprise reflective photoplethysmograph signals. In another
embodiment, the signals may comprise transmittance
photoplethysmograph signals. In one embodiment, the photodetectors
62 may comprise phototransistors. In alternative embodiment, the
photodetectors 62 may comprise charge-coupled devices (CCD).
[0083] FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating components of the
sensor module. As described above, the sensor module 16 may
comprise a plurality of sensor units 28 affixed to a sensor plate
30, and a sensor computing unit 32.
[0084] According to one exemplary embodiment, the sensor units 28
may include an optical sensor array 301, a thermometer 303, a
galvanic skin response (GSR) sensor array 305, a bioimpedance
(BioZ) sensor array 307, and an electrocardiography sensor (ECG)
sensor 309, or any combination thereof.
[0085] In one embodiment, the optical sensor array 301 may comprise
a photoplethysmograph (PPG) sensor array that may measures relative
blood flow, pulse and/or blood oxygen level. In one embodiment, the
optical sensor array 301 may include an array of discrete optical
sensors, where each discrete optical sensor is a combination of at
least one photodetector and at least two matching light sources
(e.g., LEDs) located adjacent to the photodetector. In this
embodiment, the optical sensor array 301 may be arranged on the
band so that the optical sensor array 301 straddles a blood vessel,
such as the Radial artery or the ulnar artery.
[0086] The thermometer 48 may measure temperature or a temperature
gradient. The galvanic skin response (GSR) sensor array 305 may
comprise two or more GSR sensors that may measure electrical
conductance of the skin that varies with moisture level. The
bioimpedance (BioZ) sensor array 307 may comprise two or more
bioimpedance sensors that measure bioelectrical impedance or
opposition to a flow of electric current through the tissue. In the
embodiment shown, the bioimpedance sensor array 307 may be arranged
or positioned on the band to straddle a blood vessel, such as the
Radial or Ulnar artery. In one embodiment, one or more electrodes
comprising the bioimpedance sensors may be multiplexed with one or
more of the GSR sensors 305. The electrocardiography sensors (ECG)
sensor 309 may measure electrical activity of the user's heart over
a period of time.
[0087] In one embodiment, the ECG 309, the bioimpedance sensor
array 307, the GSR 305, the thermometer 303, and the optical sensor
array 301 may be coupled to the sensor computing unit 32 that
controls and receives data from the sensor units 28. In one
embodiment, the sensor computing unit 32 may be part of the band 12
(not shown). In another embodiment, the sensor computing unit 32
may be part of the sensor plate 30.
[0088] The sensor computing unit 32 may comprise an ECG and
bioimpedance (BIOZ) analog front end (AFE) 302, a GSR AFE 304, an
optical sensor AFE 306, a processor 308, and analog-to-digital
converter (ADC) 310, a memory 312, a three-axis accelerometer 314,
a pressure sensor 316 and a battery 318.
[0089] As used herein, an AFE may comprise an analog signal
conditioning circuitry interface between corresponding sensors and
the ADC 310 or the processor 308. The ECG and BIOZ AFE 302 exchange
signals with the ECG 309 and the bioimpedance sensor array 307. The
GSR AFE 304 may exchange signals with the GSR sensor array 305. And
the optical sensor AFE 306 may exchange signals with the optical
sensor array 301. In one embodiment, the GSR AFE 304, the optical
sensor AFE 306, the accelerometer 314, and the pressure sensor 316
may be coupled to the ADC 310 via bus 320. The ADC 310 may convert
a physical quantity, such as voltage, to a digital number
representing amplitude.
[0090] In one embodiment, the ECG and BIOZ AFE 302, memory 312, the
processor 308 and the ADC 310 may comprise components of a
microcontroller 322. The processor 308 in one embodiment may
comprise a reduced instruction set computer (RISC), such as a
Cortex 32-bit RISC ARM processor core by ARM Holdings, for
example.
[0091] According to the exemplary embodiment, the processor 308 may
execute a calibration and data acquisition component 324 that may
perform sensor calibration and data acquisition functions. In one
embodiment, the sensor calibration function may comprise a process
for self-aligning one or more sensor arrays to a blood vessel. In
one embodiment, the sensor calibration may be performed at startup,
prior to receiving data from the sensors, or at periodic intervals
during operation. In one embodiment, during operation the sensor
computing unit 32 may collect and store the sensor data in memory
312 for subsequent transfer to the base computing unit 20.
[0092] FIG. 7 is a block diagram illustrating another configuration
for components of wearable sensor module in a further
implementation. In this implementation, the ECG 60, the
bioimpedance sensor array 58, the GSR array 56, the thermometer 48,
and the optical sensor array 54 may be coupled to an
optical-electric unit 66 that controls and receives data from the
sensors on the band 12. In another implementation, the
optical-electric unit 66 may be part of the band 12. In an
alternative implementation, the optical-electric unit 66 may be
separate from the band 12.
[0093] The optical-electric unit 66 may comprise an ECG and
bioimpedance (BIOZ) analog front end (AFE) 76, 78, a GSR AFE 70, an
optical sensor AFE 72, a processor 36, an analog-to-digital
converter (ADC) 74, a memory 38, an accelerometer 46, a pressure
sensor 80 and a power source 22.
[0094] In one embodiment, the ECG and BIOZ AFE 76, 78, memory 38,
the processor 36 and the ADC 74 may comprise components of a
microcontroller 82. In one embodiment, the GSR AFE 70 and the
optical sensor AFE 72 may also be part of the microcontroller 82.
The processor 36 in one embodiment may comprise a reduced
instruction set computer (RISC), such as a Cortex 32-bit RISC ARM
processor core by ARM Holdings, for example. In the embodiment
shown in FIG. 7, the memory 38 is an internal memory embedded in
the microcontroller 82. In other embodiments, the memory 38 can be
external to the microcontroller 82.
[0095] According to an exemplary embodiment, the processor 36 may
execute a calibration and data acquisition component 84 that may
perform sensor calibration and data acquisition functions. In one
embodiment, the sensor calibration function may comprise a process
for self-aligning one or more sensor arrays to a blood vessel. In
one embodiment, the sensor calibration may be performed at startup,
prior to receiving data from the sensors, or at periodic intervals
during operation.
[0096] In another embodiment, the sensor units 28 may also comprise
a galvanic skin response (GSR) sensor array 56, which may comprise
four or more GSR sensors that may measure electrical conductance of
the skin that varies with moisture level. Conventionally, two GSR
sensors are necessary to measure resistance along the skin surface.
According to one aspect of this embodiment, the GSR sensor array 56
is shown including four GSR sensors, where any two of the four may
be selected for use. In one embodiment, the GSR sensors 56 may be
spaced on the band 2 to 5 mm apart.
[0097] In another embodiment, the sensor units 28 may also comprise
bioimpedance (BioZ) sensor array 58, which may comprise four or
more BioZ sensors 58 that measure bioelectrical impedance or
opposition to a flow of electric current through the tissue.
Conventionally, only two sets of electrodes are needed to measure
bioimpedance, one set for the "I" current and the other set for the
"V" voltage. However, according to an exemplary embodiment, a
bioimpedance sensor array 58 may be provided that includes at least
four to six bioimpedance sensors 58, where any four of electrodes
may be selected for "I" current pair and the "V" voltage pair. The
selection could be made using a multiplexor. In the embodiment
shown, the bioimpedance sensor array 58 is shown straddling an
artery, such as the Radial or Ulnar artery. In one embodiment, the
BioZ sensors 58 may be spaced on the band 5 to 13 mm apart. In one
embodiment, one or more electrodes comprising the BioZ sensors 58
may be multiplexed with one or more of the GSR sensors 56.
[0098] In yet another embodiment, the band 12 may include one or
more electrocardiogram (ECG) sensors 60 that measure electrical
activity of the user's heart over a period of time. In addition,
the band 12 may also comprise a thermometer 48 for measuring
temperature or a temperature gradient.
[0099] According to an exemplary embodiment of an adjustable sensor
support structure, a series of sensors supported by flexible bridge
structures may be serially connected edge-to-edge along a band.
Such a band with bridge supported sensors may be worn, for example,
about the wrist 14. When worn about a measurement site such as the
wrist 14, the varying topology of the wrist 14 may cause force(s)
to simultaneously be exerted upon the bridges due to compliance of
the band to the varying topology of the wrist 14.
[0100] Other kinds of devices can be used to provide for
interaction with a user as well; for example, feedback provided to
the user can be any form of sensory feedback (e.g., visual
feedback, auditory feedback, or tactile feedback); and input from
the user can be received in any form, including acoustic, speech,
or tactile input.
[0101] The systems and techniques described here can be implemented
in a computing system that includes a back end component (e.g., as
a data server), or that includes a middleware component (e.g., an
application server), or that includes a front end component (e.g.,
a client computer having a graphical user interface or a Web
browser through which a user can interact with an implementation of
the systems and techniques described here), or any combination of
such back end, middleware, or front end components. The components
of the system can be interconnected by any form or medium of
digital data communication (e.g., a communication network).
Examples of communication networks include a local area network
("LAN"), a wide area network ("WAN"), and the Internet.
[0102] The computing system can include clients and servers. A
client and server are generally remote from each other and
typically interact through a communication network. The
relationship of client and server arises by virtue of computer
programs running on the respective computers and having a
client-server relationship to each other. Various cloud-based
platforms and/or other database platforms may be employed in
certain implementations of the modular sensor platform 10 to, for
example, receive and send data to the modular sensor platform 10.
One such implementation is architecture for multi-modal
interactions (not shown). Such architecture can be employed as a
layer of artificial intelligence between wearable devices, like
modular sensor platform 10, and the larger cloud of other devices,
websites, online services, and apps. Such an architecture also may
serve to translate (for example by monitoring and comparing) data
from the modular sensor platform 10 with archived data, which may
be then be used to alert, for example, the user or healthcare
professional about changes in condition. This architecture further
may facilitate interaction between the modular sensor platform 10
and other information, such as social media, sports, music, movies,
email, text messages, hospitals, prescriptions to name a few.
[0103] FIG. 8 illustrates another embodiment of a modular wearable
sensor platform or device 800 showing an interior surface 804. The
wearable sensor platform 800 is analogous to the wearable sensor
platforms 10 and thus includes analogous components having similar
labels. In this embodiment, the wearable sensor platform 800
includes an optional smart device or base module 808, a band 812,
and an interface 816. In some other embodiments, the wearable
sensor platform 800 does not include the optional base module 808.
In some embodiments, the modular wearable sensor platform or device
800 is a smart watch or a smart phone.
[0104] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 8, the interface 816
includes a sensor plate receptacle 820 for receiving a modular
sensing circuitry, discussed hereinafter. In other embodiment, the
interface receptacle 816 includes a cavity (not shown) that
receives a modular sensing circuitry. In some embodiments, the
sensor plate receptacle 820 includes fasteners 824 for keeping or
securing a modular sensing circuitry in place. In some embodiments,
the fasteners 824 include, but are not limited to, one or more of a
magnet, a notch, Velcro, a clip, a screw, pogo pins, contacts,
detents, and the like. In some other embodiments, the fasteners 824
include threaded through-holes and receptacles to receive driving
fasteners such as screws to secure a modular sensing circuitry in
place.
[0105] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 8, the fasteners 824 are
disposed at either edge of the sensor plate receptacle 820. In
other embodiments, the fasteners 824 can be embedded or disposed on
a backplate 828 of the sensor plate receptacle 820. In yet other
embodiments, the fasteners 824 can be disposed on both the
backplate 828 and the edges of the sensor plate receptacle 820. In
some other embodiments, the sensor plate receptacle 820 includes a
universal-serial-bus (USB)-type receptacle.
[0106] FIG. 8A illustrates a second interface receptacle 840
showing an exemplary micro-USB-type interface 844 located on a
backplate 848 for receiving a modular sensing circuitry that has a
micro-USB-type receptacle. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 8A, the
second interface receptacle 840 includes one micro-USB-type
interface 844. In other embodiments, the second interface
receptacle 840 may include more than one micro-USB-type interface
844. Further, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 8A, the
micro-USB-type interface 844 is centrally located. In other
embodiments, the micro-USB-type interface 844 can be located in a
different portion of the backplate 848.
[0107] Referring back to FIG. 8, the sensor plate receptacle 820
may have internal wiring (not shown) embedded or integrated with
the band 812, and is in communication with the base module 808 and
a coupled modular sensing circuitry. For example, an internal power
source (not shown) of the base module 808 can power one or more
sensors and/or a processor of the coupled modular sensing
circuitry. Conversely, data received or processed by the coupled
modular sensing circuitry may be transmitted to the base module 808
via the internal wiring. In some embodiments, however, the
communication between the base module 808 and the coupled modular
sensing circuitry can be wireless. The wearable sensor platform 800
also includes a clasp 832 for holding the band 812 over a body
part, for example, the wrist 14.
[0108] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 8, the band 812 has various
optional fixed sizes to be wearable over different wrist sizes. For
example, the band 812 can have different lengths ranging from about
135 mm for a small wrist to about 210 mm for a large wrist. In
other embodiments, the band 812 is an adjustable band to be
wearable over different wrist sizes. In still other embodiments,
the band 812 includes a plurality of sub-bands (not shown) for
circulation of air in and around the wrist, thereby provides
additional comfort. Further, the band 812 generally consists of
chemically inert material, medical-grade material, hypoallergenic
silicone, rubber, Graphene, and the like. In some embodiments, the
band 812 has a textured interior surface to minimize slipping.
[0109] FIG. 9 illustrates a sensor module or modular sensing
circuitry 900 that can be coupled to the modular wearable sensor
platform 800 of FIG. 8. The modular sensing circuitry 900 includes
a sensor plate 904. The sensor plate 904 includes a plurality of
sensors 908, 910, and a sensor computing unit or processor 912 that
is similar to the sensor computing unit 32 of FIG. 2. In some
embodiments, the sensors 908, 910 include, but are not limited to,
an optical sensor array, a thermometer, a galvanic skin response
(GSR) sensor array, a bioimpedance (BioZ) sensor array, an
electrocardiogram (ECG) sensor, or any combination thereof. The
sensors 908 may also include biological sensors (e.g., pulse, pulse
oximetry, body temperature, blood pressure, body fat, etc.),
proximity detector for detecting the proximity of objects, and
environmental sensors (e.g., temperature, humidity, ambient light,
pressure, altitude, compass, etc.).
[0110] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 9, the sensor module 900 is
selectively removable or detachable, and includes an interface 916
that mechanically engages the sensor plate receptacle 820. The
interface 916 also includes fasteners (not shown) that secure the
modular sensing circuitry 900 to the interface 816 of FIG. 8. In
some embodiments, the fasteners (not shown) include, but are not
limited to, one or more of a magnet, a notch, Velcro, a clip, a
screw, pogo pins, contacts, detents, and the like. In some other
embodiments, the fasteners (not shown) include threaded
through-holes and receptacles to receive driving fasteners such as
screws to secure the modular sensing circuitry 900 to the interface
816 of FIG. 8.
[0111] In the embodiment as shown in FIG. 9, both the sensor module
900 and the sensor plate 904 are contoured to conform to the wrist
14 (of FIG. 4). When the device 800 is worn over the wrist 14, the
sensor plate 904 may be in contact with the skin of the wrist. In
other embodiments, the sensor plate 904 is a flexible plate. When
selectively pressed, the sensor plate 904 is pressed against the
skin of the wrist 14, thereby contacting the skin of the wrist 14.
It should be understood that the present invention is not limited
to usage with the wrist. It should also be understood that, in
addition to the sensor plate 904 being replaceable and removable,
each of the individual sensors 908, 910 can also be replaceable and
removable. For example, each of the sensors 908, 910 can be snapped
in place into the sensor plate 904, and thus is in communication
with the processor 912 with wiring integrated in the sensor plate
904. In this way, only a sensor 908, 910 that needs replacement or
repaired is replaced.
[0112] FIG. 10 illustrates an exemplary complementary
metal-oxide-semiconductor ("CMOS") sensor module 1000 in accordance
with embodiments of the present invention. The CMOS sensor module
1000, like the sensor module 900, can also be removably and
interchangeably engaged to the platform 800 at the interface 816.
That is, the CMOS sensor module 1000 also includes an interface
(not shown) similar to the interface 916 of FIG. 9. Similarly, the
CMOS sensor module 1000 may also include fasteners similar to the
fasteners as discussed with respect to FIG. 9. In this regard, a
user can remove the modular sensing circuitry 900 of FIG. 9, and
replace the modular sensing circuitry 900 of FIG. 9 with the CMOS
sensor module 1000, for example, for different types of
physiological activity measurement.
[0113] The CMOS sensor module 1000 includes an optical sensor array
1004, for example, a photoplethysmogram (PPG) sensor array that may
measure relative blood flow, pulse and/or blood oxygen level. In
the embodiment shown, the CMOS sensor module 1000 is engaged with
an interface (not shown) similar to the interface 816 of FIG. 8 on
a band 1006 with a clasp 1008. The optical sensor array 1004
includes a plurality of image sensors 1010 packaged near to each
other, and a plurality of light sources 1012. In some embodiments,
the light sources 1012 include multi-spectral light-emitting diodes
(LED's). In other embodiments, the light sources 1012 may include
multi-spectral laser sources.
[0114] In some embodiments, the image sensors 1010 are positioned
in sufficient proximity to an artery, such as the radial or ulnar
artery, of the wrist 14 of FIG. 4 to take adequate measurements
with sufficient accuracy and reliability. In the embodiment shown
in FIG. 10, the image sensors 1010 are centrally located with
respect to the light sources 1012. In the embodiment shown, the
light sources 1012 are arranged or distributed uniformly in a
regular rectangular array. In other embodiments, the light sources
1012 can be distributed in a predefined pattern. For example, the
light sources 1012 can be laid out around the image sensors 1010 in
a circular array with the image sensors 1010 as the center. For
another example, the light sources 1012 can be laid out
asymmetrically with respect to the image sensors 1010. In such
embodiments, the image sensors 1010 can be placed near only one
side of the image sensors 1010.
[0115] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 10, the light sources 1012
include LEDs of four different colors. However, in other
embodiments, there may be two, three, or many more colors of LEDs
in the optical sensor array 1004. In some embodiments, some of the
light sources 1012 may be chosen with the same central wavelength
but have different spectral bandwidths. In one embodiment, layout
of the colors of the multi-spectral light sources 1012 in the
optical sensor array 1004 may be regular. In other embodiments,
some colors of the multi-spectral light sources 1012 may be
represented in the optical sensor array 1004 more often than other
colors of the light sources 1012.
[0116] In some embodiments, the light sources 1012 could be
electrically controlled to be lit simultaneously. In some
embodiments, each of the light sources 1012 in the optical sensor
array 1004 is individually addressable. For example, the brightness
and/or duration of each of the light sources 1012 in the optical
sensor array 1004 can be individually controlled. In the embodiment
shown in FIG. 10, each of the image sensors 1010 has a resolution
of 200.times.200 pixels. In other embodiments, the image sensors
1010 can have various or adjustable sizes and resolutions depending
on application, and/or depending on the size of the wrist 14, or
the length of the band 1006.
[0117] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 10, color filters (not
shown) can be used in conjunction with the image sensors 1010 to
specifically detect a predefined wavelength of a signal. In other
embodiments, the image sensors 1010 do not include any additional
color filter to detect all wavelengths. In still other embodiments,
some of the image sensors 1010 are equipped with color filters,
while other image sensors 1010 are not equipped with color filters.
For example, filters (not shown) can be placed on some of the image
sensors 1010 while the rest of the image sensors 1010 do not
include any color filter. In this regard, a user can specifically
tune the optical sensor array 1004 to detect a predefined set of
physiological activity.
[0118] In some embodiments, the filters can be placed in a
plurality of large bands creating pixel bands on the image sensors
1010. The pixel bands can be broadly chosen to match red, green,
blue, and infrared (IR). In other embodiments, the color filters
can be chosen to match one or more specific spectral bandwidths of
the light sources 1012 chosen in the optical sensor array 1004. In
still other embodiments, the filters chosen do not need to be
uniform among the image sensors 1010. For example, each of the
image sensors 1010 can have a different set of color filters. In
other embodiments, other configurations of filters can be used. In
some embodiments, color filters can be differentiated down to the
pixel level if that is desired. In some embodiments, optical films
(not shown) can be added to different sections of the image sensors
1010 to make them more or less sensitive to the direction of
photons received. It should be understood that, in some
embodiments, the sensor plate 1004 also includes other sensors
similar to the sensors 908, 910 of FIG. 9, and a sensor computing
unit similar to the sensor computing unit 912 of FIG. 9. For
example, the sensor plate 1004 can also include a thermometer, a
galvanic skin response (GSR) sensor array, a bioimpedance (BioZ)
sensor array, an electrocardiogram (ECG) sensor, biological sensors
(e.g., pulse, pulse oximetry, body temperature, blood pressure,
body fat, etc.), proximity detector for detecting the proximity of
objects, and environmental sensors (e.g., temperature, humidity,
ambient light, pressure, altitude, compass, etc.).
[0119] FIG. 11 shows another sensor module or modular sensing
circuitry 1100 that can be coupled to the modular wearable sensor
platform 800 of FIG. 8. The modular sensing circuitry 900 includes
a sensor plate 1104. Unlike the modular sensing circuitry 900 of
FIG. 9, the sensor plate 1104 includes a plurality of large sensors
1108 and 1112. In this regard, the large sensors 1108, 1112 can be
uncomfortable to wear for an extended period of time. In this
regard, each of the large sensors 1108 and 1112 may be subdivided
into a plurality of smaller sensor segments. In some embodiments,
for example, when a sensor, such as, for example, the sensor 1108
is considered as too large for conforming to the contour of a body
part, for example, the wrist 14, a sensor 1108 is segmented into a
plurality of sensor segments. For example, when a bioimpedance
sensor is configured to detect the bioimpedance of the wrist, but
is considered large when compared to the contour of the wrist 14,
the bioimpedance sensor is subdivided into two or more bioimpedance
sensor segments that are better shaped to contour the wrist.
[0120] In this regard, when the sensor 1108 is configured to
measure data, such as, for example, a physiological activity, at a
predefined surface area, the sensor 1108 may be subdivided into a
plurality of sensor segments (not shown) to effectively measure the
same physiological activity. In some embodiments, the sensor
segments have the same total sensing surface areas, or the sum of
all individual sensing surface areas generally matches the
predefined surface area. For example, the total of all individual
sensing surface areas is the same as the predefined surface area.
For another example, data measured with the sum of all individual
sensing surface areas effectively equals the data that would have
been measured with the predefined sensing surface area. In still
other embodiments, the sensor segments have different sensing
surface areas, but data measured with the sum of all individual
sensing surface areas still effectively matches data that would
have been measured with the predefined sensing surface area.
[0121] FIG. 12 illustrates an operational flow chart of a sensing
process 1200 for measuring data of a predefined area in accordance
with embodiments of the present invention. At step 1204, the
sensing process 1200 divides the predefined area into a plurality
of sub-areas. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 12, there are N
sub-areas. At steps 1208, 1212, 1216, the sensing process 1200
measures or senses data at each of the sub-areas for a portion of a
physiological activity. In some embodiments, the measurements at
steps 1208, 1212, 1216 are carried out simultaneously. In other
embodiments, the measurements at steps 1208, 1212, 1216 are carried
out in a timed manner. For example, step 1208 is followed by step
1212, which is followed by step 1216. The data measured at each of
the sub-areas are consolidated and combined to form the desired set
of data of the physiological activity at step 1220.
[0122] FIG. 13 illustrates an operational flow chart of a
measurement process 1300 for measuring data indicative of blood
pressure of an individual in accordance with embodiments of the
present invention. At step 1304, a modular wearable sensor platform
similar to the modular wearable sensor platform 1000 measures an
electrocardiogram (ECG) with one or more sensors (similar to the
sensors 908, 910 of FIG. 9) disposed on a band similar to the band
812 of FIG. 8. At step 1208, the modular wearable sensor platform
similar to the modular wearable sensor platform 1000 measures a
photoplethysmogram (PPG) with sensors similar to the image sensors
1010 of FIG. 10. At step 1312, a sensor computing unit similar to
the sensor computing unit 912 of the FIG. 9 then derives and
processes data indicative of the blood pressure of a user from the
ECG and the PPG. In some embodiments, at step 1312, a processor
similar to the processor 912 of FIG. 9 can determine a timing
difference between a heart electrical impulse and an actual blood
flow passing through the artery. Based on the difference
determined, the processor similar to the processor 912 of FIG. 9
can estimate a pulse arrival time (PAT), and thus can calculate a
blood pressure.
[0123] Blood pressure is correlated with the pulse transition time
(PTT) which may be calculated from the PAT. In one embodiment,
calibration may be necessary both to calculate the PTT as well as
to determine the blood pressure. In some embodiments, both the
systolic and diastolic blood pressure may be determined. One
problem with correlated blood pressure calculations lies in changes
in the relationship of the signals. When ECG is measured, different
lead lengths or different positioning of the leads on the body will
change the absolute timing in comparison with a PPG sensor. In
addition, because these signals are often measured using different
devices, the timing difference between the two devices is
determined and/or calibrated along with other physiological
parameters. Furthermore, timing jitter between the two signals on
different devices may require longer averaging of signals to
measure a steady signal; this can impede measurements of fast blood
pressure variability. In some embodiments, sensors can be placed on
a modular band similar to the band 812 of FIG. 8. In such
embodiments, when positioning of the sensors is consistent, and
measurements of both the PPG and ECG will have consistent timing.
Because both ECG sensors similar to the ECG sensors of FIG. 10 and
PPG sensors similar to the optical sensor array 1004 are placed on
the same platform similar to the modular sensor platform 10, 800,
timing changes or jitters due to wiring with the modular sensor
platform 10, 800 will be reduced, minimized, or eliminated in some
embodiments. In other embodiments, other types of sensors could be
used in place of PPG sensors to measure blood flow or pulse arrival
at the sensors. For example, in one embodiment, a bioimpedance
sensor could be used. In other embodiments, data from both a PPG
sensor and a bioimpedance sensor could be placed on the same
platform similar to the modular sensor platform 10, 800 to improve
data quality for calculating the pulse arrival and thus produce a
more accurate and precise blood pressure reading.
[0124] The present invention has been described in accordance with
the embodiments shown, and there could be variations to the
embodiments, and any variations would be within the spirit and
scope of the present invention. For example, the exemplary
embodiment can be implemented using hardware, software, a computer
readable medium containing program instructions, or a combination
thereof. Software written according to the present invention is to
be either stored in some form of computer-readable medium such as a
memory, a hard disk, or a CD/DVD-ROM and is to be executed by a
processor.
[0125] While the invention has been described with reference to
certain embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the
art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be
substituted without departing from the scope of the invention. In
addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular
situation or material to the teachings of the invention without
departing from its scope. Therefore, it is intended that the
invention not be limited to the particular embodiment disclosed,
but that the invention will include all embodiments falling within
the scope of the appended claims.
[0126] Additionally, In addition, the logic flows depicted in the
figures do not require the particular order shown, or sequential
order, to achieve desirable results. In addition, other steps may
be provided, or steps may be eliminated, from the described flows,
and other components may be added to, or removed from, the
described systems. Accordingly, other embodiments are within the
scope of the following claims.
* * * * *