U.S. patent application number 17/368063 was filed with the patent office on 2021-10-28 for system for monitoring a physiological parameter of a user.
The applicant listed for this patent is Cercacor Laboratories, Inc.. Invention is credited to Massi Joe E. Kiani, Marcelo Lamego, Gregory A. Olsen, Jeroen Poeze.
Application Number | 20210335463 17/368063 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000005699035 |
Filed Date | 2021-10-28 |
United States Patent
Application |
20210335463 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Poeze; Jeroen ; et
al. |
October 28, 2021 |
SYSTEM FOR MONITORING A PHYSIOLOGICAL PARAMETER OF A USER
Abstract
The present disclosure provides an electronic device that
includes at least one sensor indicative of a physiological
condition of a user, the at least one sensor worn by a patient. The
electronic device can further include a location determination
module configured to determine a location of a patient. The
electronic device can receive a measured information from the
sensor and determine if the physiological condition of the user
indicates an urgent medical need. When the physiological condition
of the user indicates an urgent medical need, the electronic device
can contact emergency services and access and contact one or more
of a contact in an electronic address book associated with the
processing system. The electronic device can provide a location of
the user based on information determined by the location
determination module.
Inventors: |
Poeze; Jeroen; (Rancho Santa
Margarita, CA) ; Olsen; Gregory A.; (Lake Forest,
CA) ; Lamego; Marcelo; (Cupertino, CA) ;
Kiani; Massi Joe E.; (Laguna Niguel, CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Cercacor Laboratories, Inc. |
Irvine |
CA |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
1000005699035 |
Appl. No.: |
17/368063 |
Filed: |
July 6, 2021 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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16219827 |
Dec 13, 2018 |
11114188 |
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17368063 |
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12898663 |
Oct 5, 2010 |
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16219827 |
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61249221 |
Oct 6, 2009 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61B 5/02241 20130101;
A61B 5/742 20130101; A61B 5/7475 20130101; G06Q 10/109 20130101;
G16H 10/60 20180101; A61B 5/6825 20130101; A61B 5/1455 20130101;
A61B 5/6824 20130101; A61B 5/14546 20130101; A61B 5/14552 20130101;
G16H 40/63 20180101; G16H 10/65 20180101; A61B 2562/0233 20130101;
G06Q 10/10 20130101; A61B 5/7285 20130101; A61B 5/7435 20130101;
A61B 5/746 20130101; G16H 40/67 20180101; A61B 5/7275 20130101;
A61B 5/14535 20130101; A61B 5/0022 20130101; G16H 50/20 20180101;
A61B 5/14532 20130101 |
International
Class: |
G16H 10/60 20060101
G16H010/60; A61B 5/145 20060101 A61B005/145; A61B 5/1455 20060101
A61B005/1455; G16H 50/20 20060101 G16H050/20; G06Q 10/10 20060101
G06Q010/10; A61B 5/00 20060101 A61B005/00; G16H 40/63 20060101
G16H040/63; A61B 5/022 20060101 A61B005/022 |
Claims
1. An electronic device, comprising: a motion sensor configured to
gather motion sensor data; a pulse rate sensor configured to
measure pulse rate; a location determination module configured to
determine a location of the electronic device; and a processing
system connected with the motion sensor, a location determination
module, and the pulse rate sensor; the processing system configured
to: determine a location of the electronic device using the
location determination module; monitor the pulse rate using the
pulse rate sensor; determine a presence of an alert condition; in
response to determining the presence of the alert condition: access
one or more of a contact in an electronic address book associated
with the processing system; determine a proximity of the one or
more of a contact relative to the determined location of the
electronic device; contact the one or more of a contact based on
the determined location of the electronic device; and provide the
determined location of the user.
2. The electronic device of claim 1, wherein the processing system
is configured to transmit an alert to an emergency service
system.
3. The electronic device of claim 2, wherein the emergency service
system is selected based on the determined location of the
electronic device.
4. The electronic device of claim 1, wherein the processing system
is further configured to determine nearby medical devices or
equipment and alert the user to use the nearby medical devices or
equipment.
5. The electronic device of claim 1, wherein the alert condition is
determined based at least in part on the pulse rate.
6. An electronic method, comprising: gathering, using a motion
sensor, motion sensor data; measuring, using a pulse rate sensor, a
pulse rate; determining a location of an electronic device, wherein
the electronic device includes the motion sensor and the pulse rate
sensor; determining a location of the electronic device using a
location determination module; monitoring the pulse rate using the
pulse rate sensor; determining a presence of an alert condition; in
response to determining the presence of the alert condition:
accessing one or more of a contact in an electronic address book
associated with a processing system; determining a proximity of the
one or more of a contact relative to the determined location of the
electronic device; contacting the one or more of a contact based on
the determined location of the electronic device; and providing the
determined location of the user in the alert.
7. The electronic method of claim 6, comprising transmitting an
alert to an emergency service system.
8. The electronic method of claim 7, wherein the emergency service
system is selected based on the determined location of the
electronic device.
9. The electronic method of claim 6, wherein the processing system
is further configured to determine nearby medical devices or
equipment and alert the user to use the nearby medical devices or
equipment.
10. The electronic device of claim 6, wherein the alert condition
is determined based at least in part on the pulse rate.
11. An electronic device, comprising: a motion sensor configured to
gather motion sensor data; a pulse rate sensor configured to
measure pulse rate; a location determination module configured to
determine a location of the electronic device; and a processing
system connected with the motion sensor, a location determination
module, and the pulse rate sensor; the processing system configured
to: determine a location of the electronic device using the
location determination module; monitor the pulse rate using the
pulse rate sensor; determine a presence of an alert condition; in
response to determining the presence of the alert condition: access
one or more of a contact in an electronic address book associated
with the processing system; determine a proximity of the one or
more of a contact or an emergency service system relative to the
determined location of the electronic device; contact the one or
more of a contact or emergency service system based on the
determined location of the electronic device; and provide the
determined location of the user.
12. The electronic device of claim 11, wherein the processing
system is configured to transmit an alert to an emergency service
system.
13. The electronic device of claim 11, wherein the processing
system is further configured to determine nearby medical devices or
equipment and alert the user to use the nearby medical devices or
equipment.
14. The electronic device of claim 11, wherein the alert condition
is determined based at least in part on the pulse rate.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] Any and all applications for which a foreign or domestic
priority claim is identified in the Application Data Sheet as filed
with the present application are hereby incorporated by reference
under 37 CFR 1.57.
BACKGROUND
Field
[0002] The present disclosure relates to the field of patient
monitoring devices. More specifically, the disclosure relates to
portable and handheld personal health organizers that are adapted
to be coupled with patient monitors that measure physiological
characteristics such as blood glucose level, total hemoglobin,
SpO.sub.2, methemoglobin, carboxyhemoglobin, and the like.
Description of the Related Art
[0003] Caregivers often employ patient monitoring systems or
devices, such as pulse oximeters, capnographs, blood pressure
cuffs, and the like, for convenient spot checking and even
continuous monitoring of physiological characteristics of a
patient. Patient monitoring systems generally include one or more
sensors applied to a patient, a monitoring device, and one or more
cables connecting the one or more sensors to the monitoring
device.
[0004] Portability of these monitoring systems is advantageous for
a number of reasons. For example, portable devices provide the
patient with mobility and provide the caregiver the option of
including the monitoring device when transporting patients from one
setting to another. Also, caregivers often transport patients from
an ambulance to a hospital emergency room, and between surgical,
intensive care, and recovery settings. As another example, portable
devices can also provide the patient the capability of using the
monitoring systems at home or the office.
[0005] An example of a patient monitoring device is a glucometer,
which is used in a procedure for measuring glucose concentration in
the blood. Glucometers are a key element of home blood glucose
monitoring by people with diabetes mellitus or prone to
hypoglycemia. A glucometer typically provides a numerical readout
of the patient's glucose level. Other monitor devices may measure
physiological characteristics such as total hemoglobin, SpO.sub.2,
methemoglobin, carboxyhemoglobin, etc.
[0006] For many conventional patient monitoring devices such as
pulse oximeters or glucometers, separate monitoring devices may be
needed to measure the oxygen and glucose level saturations. Viewing
and analyzing different physiological characteristics would also
require separate devices. Moreover, conventional patient monitoring
devices are limited to the specialized functions provided by the
individual devices, which often include limited data analysis or
synchronization capabilities.
SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0007] Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a portable
health organizer that enables patients and healthcare personnel to
manage health data, and in particular, physiological reading data
from one or more health data collection devices such as a
glucometer or pulse oximeter. In an embodiment, the personal health
organizer is a dedicated portable device that is adapted to
retrieve reading data from a health data collection device, which
is a noninvasive device in an embodiment and an invasive device in
another embodiment.
[0008] In another embodiment, the personal health organizer is a
software module/platform that is configured to be executed on a
general purpose computing device such as a personal computer, a
laptop, a mobile phone, a mobile computer, and a wristwatch
computer. The general purpose computer device is directed by the
personal health organizer software module/platform to collect or
receive data from either an invasive or non-invasive health data
collection device. Another embodiment is a personal health
organizer device that includes an integrated health data collection
module that is configured to receive physiological data reading
from a sensor. The personal health organizer can measure various
physiological reading data invasively or non-invasively through a
sensor connected through a sensor port in an embodiment.
[0009] In an embodiment, the personal health organizer provides
seamless integration of the reading data with the patient's
existing medical data and with a number of software applications
that help a patient manages his or her health. For example, the
physiological reading data, e.g., blood glucose, total hemoglobin,
SpO.sub.2, methemoglobin, carboxyhemoglobin, can be tracked over a
time period so the patient is reminded to take medication and/or
perform a new reading. The reminders can be customized or
calculated based on prior medical history and/or personal
information such as age and gender stored in the personal health
organizer. As another example, the reading data can also be
forwarded to healthcare providers such as physicians and pharmacies
so they can provide feedback to the patient. The personal health
organizer can also trigger alerts if the reading data indicate an
abnormal level that requires medical attention.
[0010] In addition to the forgoing, embodiments of the present
disclosure also provide electronic medical record (EMR) integration
in conjunction with support for medical record synchronization
across networked locations (e.g. via a cloud computing network).
Medical data (including reading data and other patient-entered data
such as medication schedule and activity/food in-take logs) from
the personal health organizer device are automatically synchronized
with the corresponding records located at a remote entity (e.g. in
a centralized EMR storage or at the healthcare providers' data
storage). For example, newly obtained reading data can be
synchronized with a shared, synchronized calendar so that both the
physician and the patient user can adjust an appointment if the
reading requires a change in the appointment schedule. As another
example, prescription information can be synchronized so that
reimbursements can be handled automatically when the user finishes
a current prescription and purchases a new refill. In another
example, the personal health organizer can initiate the
prescription refill process after verifying drug interaction and
consent of the user and the physician.
[0011] In other embodiments, the personal health organizer includes
an accelerometer that detects user motion and the motion can assist
in the collection of and/or display of medical/reading data. For
example, the accelerometer can detect a user's intent to use the
device via touch/motion and automatically start the collection of
data when the user places his or her finger into a sensor
associated with a health collection data device. In another
example, the personal health organizer can begin health data
collection once the user places his or her finger into a sensor
associated with a health collection data device and/or provides a
gesture via a touch-screen input associated with the personal
health organizer. In yet another example, the personal health
organizer begins the data collection when the user places a finger
into the sensor. The LEDs and photo diodes in the sensor can detect
the presence of the finger and initiate data collection. The
presence of a finger can be determined, for example, by determining
when there is a significant reduction in detected light. Such a
reduction in detected light can indicate the presence of a finger
and start the data collection process.
[0012] In other embodiments, the personal health organizer includes
a number of health education and gaming modules designed to educate
the user on health management and motivate the user toward a
healthier lifestyle. The educational and gaming content can be
customized based on the user's current reading data. For example, a
tree icon indicative of the user's health can be displayed on the
personal health organizer, with the health of the tree
corresponding to the recent readings obtained directly by the
personal health organizer through a connected sensor or through an
associated health data collection device.
[0013] For purposes of summarizing the invention, certain aspects,
advantages and novel features of the invention have been described
herein. Of course, it is to be understood that not necessarily all
such aspects, advantages or features will be embodied in any
particular embodiment of the invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0014] A general architecture that implements the various features
of the invention will now be described with reference to the
drawings. The drawings and the associated descriptions are provided
to illustrate embodiments of the invention and not to limit the
scope of the invention. Throughout the drawings, reference numbers
are re-used to indicate correspondence between referenced
elements.
[0015] FIGS. 1A and 1B illustrate an embodiment of a personal
health organizer.
[0016] FIGS. 2A and 2B illustrate another embodiment of a personal
health organizer.
[0017] FIGS. 3A and 3B illustrate yet another embodiment of a
personal health organizer.
[0018] FIG. 4 is a block diagram that illustrates the components of
a personal health organizer in accordance with one embodiment.
[0019] FIG. 5 is a block diagram that illustrates the modules of a
personal health organizer in accordance with one embodiment.
[0020] FIG. 6A is a flow diagram that illustrates various methods
performed by the personal health organizer in accordance with one
or more embodiments.
[0021] FIG. 6B illustrates the transfer and synchronization of
reading data and medical data in accordance with one
embodiment.
[0022] FIG. 7 illustrates a sample handheld monitor and an
exemplary noninvasive optical sensor of a health data collection
device in accordance with one embodiment.
[0023] FIG. 8 is a block diagram of an example health data
collection device capable of noninvasively measuring one or more
blood analytes in a monitored patient, according to an embodiment
of the disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED AND ALTERNATIVE EMBODIMENTS
[0024] Embodiments of the invention will now be described with
reference to the accompanying figures, wherein like numerals refer
to like elements throughout. The terminology used in the
description presented herein is not intended to be interpreted in
any limited or restrictive manner, simply because it is being
utilized in conjunction with a detailed description of certain
specific embodiments of the invention. Furthermore, embodiments of
the invention can include several novel features, no single one of
which is solely responsible for its desirable attributes or which
is essential to practicing the inventions herein described.
[0025] Systems, methods, and computer-readable media are disclosed
for obtaining and analyzing medical data from a medical device or a
data server. More specifically, systems, methods, and computer
readable media are disclosed for enabling a portable device to
obtain and analyze medical data from a health data collection
device, such as a glucometer.
[0026] FIGS. 1A-1B, 2A-2B, and 3A-3B illustrate three primary
embodiments of the personal health organizer. First, FIGS. 1A and
1B depict a dedicated portable personal health organizer device
that is configured to receive data from a health data collection
device such as a glucometer. In an embodiment, the personal health
organizer is configured to analyze data from the collection device,
manage the collected data, and use the collected data to assist the
patient in managing his or her personal healthcare. For example,
the collected data can be used to schedule reminders for the
patient to visit his or her physician or pharmacist. Second, FIGS.
2A and 2B depict a general purpose computing device configured to
execute a personal health organizer software module, with the
computing device further configured to receive data from a health
data collection device such as a glucometer. The general purpose
computing device can be a mobile computing device with its own
operating system and software, and has installed upon it the
personal health organizer software module configured to perform
tasks that are substantially similar to those performed by the
dedicated personal health organizer depicted in FIGS. 1A and 1B.
Finally, FIGS. 3A and 3B depict a device that integrates a personal
health organizer software module with a health data collection
device module, with the collection device module coupled with
hardware to perform tasks of health data collection such as those
performed by a glucometer or other patient monitoring device
described above. Each of these primary embodiments will be
described in further detail below.
Personal Health Organizer as a Dedicated Portable Device
[0027] FIG. 1A shows a personal health organizer 110 as a device
configured for analyzing data collected by a health data collection
device 112. As shown in FIG. 1A, the personal health organizer 110
can be connected to the health data collection device 112 via a
communications link 114. The communications link 114 can be a wired
or wireless connection adapted to transfer data between the two
devices. Examples of wired connections include USB, serial, and
parallel and examples of wireless connections include
Bluetooth.RTM., Wi-Fi, WiMAX, Wireless USB, and ZIGBEE. In various
embodiments, the health data collection device 112 is configured to
collect physiological data from a patient invasively or
non-invasively. The health data collection device 112 can be a
glucometer, a pulse oximeter, monitor devices that measure total
hemoglobin, SpO.sub.2, methemoglobin, carboxyhemoglobin, and the
like. Example portable non-invasive monitoring devices are
disclosed in co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No.
12/534,827, filed Aug. 3, 2009, assigned to Masimo Labs of Irvine,
Calif., the Assignee of the present application, the disclosure of
which is incorporated herein by reference.
[0028] The personal health organizer 110 can comprise a computing
system configured to perform functional tasks of various
embodiments of the invention. For example, in an embodiment, the
personal health organizer 110 accesses data collected by the health
data collection device 112 or stored at a medical data server 120
connected via a network 124, which can include a LAN, WAN, or the
Internet. The medical data server 120 and the personal health
organizer 110 can be connected to the network via communications
links 146 and 148, respectively, and the communications links can
include wired or wireless connections. The medical data server 120
can be a conventional, preexisting data system operated by an
entity such as a hospital or an insurance company.
[0029] In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 1B, the health data
collection device 112 includes a finger clip sensor 116 connected
to a monitor 118 via a cable. Moreover, the monitor 118 can
advantageously includes electronic processing, signal processing,
and data storage devices capable of receiving signal data from the
sensor 116, processing the signal data to determine one or more
output measurement values indicative of one or more physiological
parameters of a monitored patient, and displaying the measurement
values, trends of the measurement values, combinations of
measurement values, and the like. Alternatively, in an embodiment,
the personal health organizer 110 includes a sensor port that
allows for a sensor such as the sensor 116 to be connected directly
to the personal health organizer 110, and in that embodiment the
personal health organizer 110 includes components and devices for
processing the signal data from the sensor 116.
[0030] The monitor 118 can also include other components, such as a
speaker, a power button, removable storage or memory (e.g., a flash
card slot), an AC or DC power port, and one or more network
interfaces, such as a universal serial bus (USB) interface, an
Ethernet port, or a wireless port. These interfaces and ports can
be used by the monitor 118 in one embodiment to communicate with
the sensor 116 via a communication link 104, which may include
various types of communication protocols and links as described
above with respect to the communication link 114. For example, the
monitor 118 can include a display that can indicate a measurement
for glucose, for example, in mg/dL. Other analytes and forms of
display can also appear on the monitor 118.
[0031] In addition, although a single sensor with a single monitor
118 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. The sensor 116 can also connect to the
monitor 118 wirelessly. Alternatively, the sensor 116 and the
monitor 118 can be integrated into a single unit. A skilled artisan
would appreciate that many other monitoring device configurations
can be used as well.
Personal Health Organizer as a Software Module
[0032] FIG. 2A depicts another embodiment with a personal health
organizer software module 132 executed on a general purpose
computing device 126, with the computing device 126 coupled with
the health data collection device 112 via a communications link
128. The communications link 128 can be a wired or wireless
connection adapted to transfer data between the two devices. The
personal health organizer module 132 can be an executable program
on an operating system of a device such as a mobile phone, a
personal digital assistant, a portable music player, an electronic
book reader, a netbook, a TV media center, and a laptop or desktop
computer. For example, the personal health organizer module 132 can
be an application that is executed on the operating system of a
mobile phone such as the iPhone manufactured by Apple, Inc., a
Blackberry device manufactured by Research In Motion, Inc., the Pre
manufactured by Palm, Inc, or a mobile device manufactured by HTC,
Nokia, or Motorola, etc. In an embodiment, the personal health
organizer software module 132 is configured to perform tasks that
are substantially similar to those performed by the dedicated
personal health organizer depicted in FIG. 1A. In an embodiment,
the computing device 126 is connected to the network 124 via a
communications link 122, which can be a wired or wireless
connection. As with FIG. 1A, the computing device 126 can be
connected to the medical data server 120 via the network 124.
[0033] As shown in FIG. 2B, the general computing device 126 can be
coupled with the health data collection device 112, with the
monitor 118 and sensor 116 as described above. In the embodiments
shown in FIGS. 1A, 1B, 2A, and 2B, the communication and/or I/O
interfaces of the health data collection device 112 can be used to
connect to personal health organizer 110 or 126. For example, the
USB interface could be used to connect the monitor 118 to a USB
port of the personal health organizer 110 or 126. As another
example, the wireless port of the health data collection device 112
could be used to communicate with the personal health organizer via
a wireless link, such as an RF or infrared link or a Bluetooth.RTM.
link. A skilled artisan will appreciate that a variety of other
configurations and communication mechanisms are possible. For
example, in an embodiment, general purpose computer device 126
includes a sensor port that allows for a sensor such as the sensor
116 to be connected directly to the general purpose computer device
126, and in that embodiment the general purpose computer device 126
includes components and devices for processing the signal data from
the sensor 116. In another embodiment, the sensor 116 can be
connected wirelessly to the general purpose computer device 126
through one or more known wireless connection protocols such as
Bluetooth.RTM.. A skilled artisan will also appreciate that
connecting the monitor 118 to the personal health organizer can
allow the personal health organizer to collect, store, or analyze
the output measurement values produced by the monitor 118.
Integrated Device with Personal Health Organizer and Health Data
Collection Modules
[0034] FIG. 3A depicts another embodiment with a personal health
organizer software module 132 executed on a computing device 130
that is integrated with a health data collection device module 134.
In an embodiment, the health data collection device module 134 is
configured to collect physiological data such as glucose reading
and other physiological parameters. In an embodiment, the health
data collection device module 134 includes components and devices
for processing the signal data from the sensor 116. As shown in
FIG. 3B, the integrated device 130 can include a monitor display
and a sensor 116. The monitor display can provide for display for
both the personal health organizer software module 132 and the
health data collection device module 134. In an embodiment, the
sensor 116 can be further integrated into the integrated device
130. In another embodiment, the wire connecting the sensor 116 to
the integrated device 130 can be retractable or detachable so that
the sensor 116 can be housed within the integrated device 130 or
elsewhere when the sensor 116 is not in use. In the detachable
embodiment, the integrated device 130 includes a sensor port that
allows for the sensor 116 to be connected directly to the
integrated device 130 through one or more known
connection/communication protocols including USB and Ethernet. The
sensor 116 can also connect wirelessly to the integrated device
130.
[0035] In one or more embodiments, the personal health organizer
110, 126 or 130 can be covered by a water-proof case (e.g. a case
that can withstand water pressure up to 300 M in depth). In an
embodiment, the sensor 116 is either detached from the personal
health organizer device or integrated into the personal health
organizer within the water-proof case. The case can allow, for
example, divers to use the personal health organizer under
water.
[0036] Although a single personal health organizer is depicted in
FIGS. 1A-3B, many different personal health organizers, monitoring
devices, or sensors that operate as described above can be
provided. In addition, multiple distinct healthcare entities and
systems can communicate with a personal health organizer and its
associated monitoring device and/or sensor. This can include
corporate two-way interaction of data hubs such as Google Health,
Microsoft Health Vault, and hubs maintained by WellPoint or other
insurers. One skilled in the art will appreciate that any number of
patients or healthcare professionals can be provided access to the
personal health organizer 110, 126, or 130 or the data server
120.
Personal Health Organizer Components--General
[0037] FIG. 4 illustrates in more detail components of an example
personal health organizer 110, general computing device 126 (with a
personal health organizer module 132) or integrated device 130 in
accordance with various embodiments (hereinafter referred to as
"personal health organizer"). In an embodiment, the components are
divided into required components and optional components. In FIG.
4, the required components are illustrated in blocks with
continuous lines while the optional components are illustrated in
blocks with dotted lines.
[0038] As illustrated in FIG. 4, various embodiments of the
personal health organizer include one or more of the following
components: one or more computer processor(s) 202, a storage 204, a
display/touch panel 206, and an interface 208. One or more of these
components can be connected together via a system bus 210. In an
embodiment, the storage 204 includes (1) data storage such as a
hard disk and/or removable media such as a flash drive, and/or (2)
memory storage such as RAM or ROM. The processor(s) 202 can process
signals received from a sensor such as the sensor 116 shown in
FIGS. 1B, 2B, and 3B and derive physiological readings such as
blood glucose level or other parameters from the signals. The
storage 204 can include instructions or data for performing one or
more methods disclosed herein. In one or more embodiments, the
storage 204 includes a media card reader interface that accepts a
media card such as an SD card, a microSD card, a memory stick, a CF
card and the like. The portable media card can be used to store
patient information and enable the personal health organizer device
to be shared, with the settings and data for the individual user
stored in the user's media card. The personal health organizer can
also include a biometric identification module (such as a vein
pattern or finger print scanner) 246 to distinguish one user from
another or provide security for information stored.
[0039] In an embodiment, a personal health organizer computing
platform/module 300 and related modules (shown in FIG. 5) are
stored in storage 204 and executed on the processor 202.
Additionally, the personal health organizer can access information
including patient medical and reading data stored in storage 204 in
performing methods disclosed herein.
[0040] The interface 208 can include an input 234, which can in
turn include wired and wireless input connections in accordance
with various protocols such USB, serial, parallel, SATA, Firewire
(IEEE 1394), Bluetooth.RTM., Wi-Fi, WiMAX, Wireless USB, ZIGBEE,
etc. Although interface 208 is shown as a simple interface,
multiple interfaces could be used. For example, the interface can
include one or more commonly available input/output (I/O)
interfaces that provide a communication interface to various
external devices, connected via a wired, wireless, or combination
of wired and wireless, communication link. In addition, sensor
interface 224 can double as a wired interface to other connection
types.
[0041] The input 234 can also accept input from an input device
such as a keyboard, a mouse, a speech recognition device, a touch
screen device and/or other data entering devices. In an embodiment,
the user inputs information through the touch screen functionality
integrated into the display/touch panel 206. The input 234 can be
connected to the health data collection device 112, other medical
devices, other computing devices, etc. to collect medical and/or
physiological reading data that is to be processed, analyzed,
and/or communicated.
[0042] In an embodiment, the interface 208 also includes a network
interface 240 that can receive information over any type of
network, such as a telephony-based network (e.g., PBX or POTS), a
local area network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN), a dedicated
intranet, and/or the Internet. The network interface 240 can
include a wired interface such as an Ethernet interface or a
wireless interface such as Wi-Fi or WiMAX.
[0043] The personal health organizer can be adapted to provide
output information to an output 232, with the information output
through wired and wireless connections in accordance with various
protocols such USB, serial, parallel, SATA, Firewire,
Bluetooth.RTM., Wi-Fi, WiMAX, Wireless USB, ZIGBEE, etc.
Information can also be output to an external display 228 and/or a
printer 230.
[0044] As further described below, the personal health organizer
can use the stored patient information to generate reports, alerts,
and the like for healthcare providers. The personal health
organizer can then output the medical information via the output
232 and/or send the medical information through via the network
124.
[0045] The storage 204 can store personal data associated with
patients connected to the personal health organizer, such as name,
address, telephone number, driver's license number, social security
number, credit card account number, checking account number, age,
gender, ethnicity, etc. Sensitive or personal data may be stored in
an encrypted format and/or not stored on the personal health
organizer. In an embodiment, the user is provided with data storage
and security options and can configure the device as desired. In an
embodiment, information stored on the device can be remotely wiped,
for example, if the device is lost or stolen. The storage 204 can
preferably also include records of reports generated for the
healthcare providers (when a provider is the user) or patients,
alerts generated for the healthcare providers or patients, patients
associated with the healthcare providers, and requests made by the
healthcare providers or patients. The storage 204 can also include
the healthcare provider's or patient's membership identification
("ID") and password. The information to be stored in the storage
204 can be entered, obtained, or transmitted using the touch screen
enabled display 206, the input and output 232 and 234, and/or the
network interface 240.
[0046] The personal health organizer in an embodiment includes one
or more of: a media decoder/encoder/player 218 for playing back
music and media, a phone 226, a built-in video/still capability
camera 214, a barcode interface 220, a magnetic
compass/accelerometer 216, a sensor interface 224, a glucose strip
reader 222, a biometric identification module (such as a retinal,
vein pattern, or finger-print scanner) 246, and an audio component
244. The media player 218 can play back media such as music and
video via a media center software displayed on the display 206. The
camera 214 can support a document scanner that allows user to input
documents and forms from healthcare providers or insurance
companies. In an embodiment, the camera is paired with an optical
character recognition module so that scanned medical forms can be
converted into data that can be uploaded for synchronization at a
server in a network (e.g. a cloud computing network) or stored on
the personal health organizer device. The scanner can also enable
the user to fill out a medical form and send the completed form to
a healthcare provider or an insurance company. User can also
photograph or scan the bar code of prescriptions and food packaging
to obtain information on drug and nutrition.
[0047] The sensor interface 224 can be used to connect to a health
data collection device and/or a sensor such as the sensor 116 shown
in FIGS. 1A-3B to obtain reading data from the device or sensor.
The glucose strip reader 222 can be used to read/scan glucose
strips and obtain reading data from the strips. The barcode
interface 220 can be used for distinguishing patient records in a
hospital setting.
[0048] The personal health organizer can also include a GPS
receiver component 212, which can determine the location of the
personal health organizer. The GPS receiver component 212 can
include a digital GPS receiver that can determine the location of
the personal health organizer by determining coordinates, such as
latitude, longitude, altimeter, etc. using conventional methods
know in the art. In the case of an emergency associated with a user
of the personal health organizer, emergency services or address
book contacts can be contacted and location information of the user
can be given by the personal health organizer using information
provided by the GPS receiver component 212. In addition, the
personal health organizer can be adapted to locate and discover
nearby healthcare facilities and/or computing devices. For
instance, the personal health organizer can determine its location
as discussed above, and from knowing its location it could
determine the closest hospital or pharmacy, etc. The personal
health organizer can also determine what medical devices,
equipment, monitors, and/or other computing devices are located
near it, for example, by using the broadcast IDs of these devices
(e.g. Wi-Fi SSIDs).
[0049] In an embodiment, the magnetic compass/accelerometer
component 216 enables a virtual reality capability. For example, a
panoramic photo can be viewed on the display 206 by
tilting/rotating the device, where the device updates the current
viewing angle of the picture using the 3D acceleration vector from
the accelerometer and the direction from the magnetic compass. In
an embodiment, other accelerometer-related features include an
orientation aware graphic user interface (GUI) on the display 206,
whereby the GUI adjusts according to the physical orientation of
the personal health organizer device. In another embodiment, the
GUI provides a hospital navigational feature that can assist a user
with navigating or routing through a hospital, for example, using a
virtual reality depiction of the hospital. In addition, the display
206 can be configured so that a "Portrait View" is used to display
numbers and a "Horizontal/Landscape" view is used to view full
screen trended data (e.g. readings tracked over a period of time).
Both view options can be overridden in the control menu of the
personal health organizer device. While in the "trend view," in an
embodiment, the user can slide the trend timeline along a
horizontal axis shake of the device, which can be taken to be a
user generated gesture interaction with the device. In another
embodiment, the user can rapidly shake the personal health
organizer device and press the power button shortly to clear the
trend that is being viewed. In another embodiment, the user can
control or access the scroll menu with a vertical axis shake. An
icon can be displayed to show a 2D bubble level and/or a 3D bubble
level to give the user feedback that the device is being used in a
good orientation for use.
[0050] In yet another embodiment, while the personal health
organizer device is in an "Exercise Activity Flag Mode," the
physical movement of the user is measured and correlated with the
user's pulse rate, with the pulse being measured by the personal
health organizer or a sensor strapped to the exercising user, in
order to rate the user's physical activity.
[0051] In other embodiments, the accelerometer can be used so that
a three-axis tilt of the device can adjust the perspective view of
numerical 3D objects, and a three-axis tilt of the device can
adjust the perspective view of the graph for more information. In
other embodiments, a steady rapid shake of the device can be
reflected in the falling apart of screen information on the display
206 and a prompt to notify the user that heavy vibration is
detected. Rapid shaking of the device during an alarm clock
notification can snooze the alarm.
[0052] The personal health organizer can include a device history
log in which a user voluntarily provides access to log data so the
manufacturer of the personal health organizer device can determine
usage frequencies of various features. The log can be anonymized so
that personal medical data is blacked out, blocked, or not
provided.
Personal Health Organizer Components--Accessibility Features
[0053] The personal health organizer can also include software
and/or hardware support (e.g. the audio component 244) for
providing a user interface for visually impaired users, including
speech and command recognition. In an embodiment, the personal
health organizer provides haptic (touch-based) feedback. The
feedback can be provided in addition to the audible voice and tonal
feedback of the device (e.g. having a vibration notification on
each screen interaction to assist the user in navigating the
screens).
[0054] One embodiment of the personal health organizer includes an
"auto-start" feature in which, after power on, the motion sensor
and sensor 116 detects if a finger is placed and held steady for a
time period (e.g. two seconds) at the sensor 116. If so, the device
starts the measurement and can optionally upload the result to a
server. In an embodiment, the auto-start feature can be paired with
audible instructions, sent via the audio component 244, to assist
the user in using the device in auto-start mode.
Modules of the Personal Health Organizer
[0055] In one or more embodiments, the personal health organizer
device includes one or more modules as shown in FIG. 5. As shown,
the personal health organizer device includes a medical and/or
physiological data input software module 310 that supports and/or
controls the receipt of medical or physiological reading data from
the health data collection device 112, for example. In addition, a
sensor interface module 306 can be included in the personal health
organizer device to interface with various sensors. For example, in
the embodiment depicted in FIGS. 3A and 3B, where the health data
collection functionality is integrated into the personal health
organizer device, the personal health organizer includes the sensor
interface module 306 to interface with the attached sensor 116.
[0056] In an embodiment, the personal health organizer or personal
health organizer module further includes a personal health
organizer software platform 300 on which one or more of the
following modules can be executed. In another embodiment, the
modules can be executed on an operating system on a computing
device apart from the personal health organizer platform 300. The
modules include a network computing support module 302, a
communications I/O interface module 304, an electronic medical data
integration module 322, a gaming module 324, a medical data
analysis module 326, a medical information and education module
328, a device security module 342, and a medical data display
module 344. These modules are further described as follows.
Medical Data Analysis Module
[0057] The medical data analysis module 326, by way of example, can
be used to receive medical or physiological data from the health
data collection device 112 and/or the sensor 116. For example, the
medical data analysis module 326 can be used to receive the
measurement outputs from the monitor 118 in FIGS. 1B and 2B. As
another example, the medical data analysis module 326 can be used
to receive data from the sensor 116 in FIG. 3B. The medical data
analysis module 326 can then analyze the data received from the
sensor 116 to determine reading data and/or measurement values
similar to those determined by the monitor 118.
[0058] After receiving or determining the reading data, the medical
data analysis module 326 can perform analysis on the reading data.
For example, the medical data analysis module 326 can determine
both pre-prandial and post-prandial peak glucose levels. This
analysis can help healthcare professionals know when and how to
titrate medications, especially for patients who are on an insulin
sliding scale coverage. As another example, the medical data
analysis module 326 can determine the mean glucose levels (daily,
weekly, or monthly, etc.). The medical data analysis module 326 can
also determine the correlation between the hemoglobin A1c and the
glucose levels over a period of time, e.g., a two to three month
period. This can show how well controlled the patient's blood sugar
level is based on the glucose readings from the glucometer. These
functions described can be performed by the medical data analysis
module 326, a sub-module, and/or a separate program on the personal
health organizer.
Medical Data Analysis Module--Data Tracking
[0059] In addition to receiving medical data, the medical data
analysis module 326 can be configured to send collected or stored
medical data to interested parties using the network computing
support module 302 and/or the communications I/O interface module
304. For example, the medical data analysis module 326 can send a
digital copy of a user's entire medical record, proof of health
insurance, etc. to interested parties, such as a physician office.
Medical data including current and past readings, reading trends,
analyses, medical records, insurance records, can be sent via
email, text message, or any other communication medium/protocol to
any interested party. Likewise, an interested party (e.g. doctor,
insurance company) can also send the same type of data to the
personal health organizer via email, text message, or any other
communication medium/protocol and the attached/transmitted data can
be integrated into the records kept on the personal health
organizer.
[0060] The medical data analysis module 326 can further include one
or more sub-modules or programs for tracking medical data,
including reading data and/or data related patient activities and
correlating the medical data with patient activities. For example,
the medical data analysis module 326 can track daily food intake
that can be downloaded via network 124. In that embodiment, the
medical data analysis module 326 is used to receive input from a
user, via the input 234 and/or the display/touch panel 206,
indicating food taken throughout the day. Then the medical data
analysis module 326 can store the input in the storage 204, analyze
the input to determine trends, and/or generate reports based on the
input. This can help the physician, dietician, or patient to
improve or modify dietary strategies for glucose control. In an
embodiment, trending data is displayed to the user in various
graphical formats on the display 206 through the medical data
display module 344.
[0061] As another example, the medical data analysis module 326 can
track the glycemic index (GI), which describes the effect of
carbohydrates on glucose level, and is sometimes used for medical
nutrition therapy. In another embodiment, the medical data analysis
module 326 can maintain a log of insulin injections given and/or
received to show a patient's compliance with medications. The
insulin injections can be input by the user into the personal
health organizer via the user interface on the display 206 or input
automatically with digital syringe. The medical data analysis
module 326 can also generate hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia alerts.
For example, when the received reading data indicates that blood
glucose is too low or too high, the medical data analysis module
326 can alert the patient and prompt the patient to log any
symptoms of hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia. Moreover, the medical
data analysis module 326 can have threshold reading values and/or
accompanying symptom checklists configurable by a physician or a
patient, so that if blood glucose values are detrimentally low or
high and/or certain accompanying symptoms appear, alerts will be
automatically sent to the patient's physician or emergency medical
personnel. Similarly, the medical data analysis module 326 can
determine if a user has missed a reading and it can send alerts
(via SMS, email, automated voice call, etc.) to a friend, family
member, or a caretaker to check on the user.
[0062] Moreover, the medical data analysis module 326 can calculate
the amount of insulin to be given based on the user's carbohydrate
intake and glucose level post-prandial. This is helpful for
patients who are on an insulin sliding scale coverage. Also, the
medical data analysis module 326 can perform continuous blood
glucose monitoring for patients in a hospital setting or in
critical care.
[0063] The medical data analysis module 326 can also be configured
to manage activity flags, based on data input by a user. The data
input can, by way of example, include: exercise time and severity
of exercise, insulin (basal bolus) dosage, medication taken, food
(GI index, carbohydrates/proteins) consumed, weight tracking, pulse
rate tracking, or CO tracking for smokers. In addition, the
tracking can include custom flags for other user-defined
activities.
[0064] In an embodiment, the medical data analysis module 326 works
with the medical data display module 344 to provide visualization
of health data tracking or trending. In an embodiment, the medical
data display module 344 displays trended data for a user in a
variety of graphical formats, for example, when rotated in a
horizontal position. The trended data can contain continuous or
spot readings of measureable parameters or user input for activity
flags, as discussed above.
[0065] A skilled artisan would appreciate that the medical data
analysis module 326 could be associated with different types of
programs or applications installed by the user that can interface
with the medical data analysis module 326. The functions described
herein can also be performed by the medical data analysis module
326 alone, one or more sub-modules, and/or one or more separate
modules/programs on the personal health organizer.
Network Computing Support Module and Electronic Medical Data
Integration Module
[0066] In addition to analyzing reading data and providing the user
with reminders, alerts, and other feedback to improve the user's
health, the personal health organizer in an embodiment includes the
electronic medical data record integration module 322 and/or the
network computing support module 302 to assist in medical data
synchronization. For example, the electronic medical data record
integration module 322 can provide data backup and synchronization
of medical results, contacts, and other user data (music, videos,
etc.). The electronic medical data record integration module 322
can also be configured to enable synchronization of emails, text
messages, and voice messages. The electronic medical data record
integration module 322 and/or the network computing support module
302 can also be configured to synchronize patient data to
centralized medical data servers such as Google Health, Microsoft
Health Vault, etc.
[0067] The electronic medical data record integration module 322
can also enable non-patients such as physicians and family members
of a primary patient user to synchronize patient data with
different access privileges. For instance, an alias can be created
to allow non-trusted sources to review patient data without
personally identifiable information. The electronic medical data
record integration module 322 can further enable a user to prove
good health practices and compliance to receive special discounted
rates or rate cuts from health insurance providers. In an
embodiment, the electronic medical data record integration module
322 and/or the network computing support module 302 include an
embedded web server that allows access to locally stored history,
reading/medical data, data settings, and calendar, etc.
[0068] The electronic medical data record integration module 322
and the network computing support module 302 can be associated with
a calendar program. The program can allow a user to synchronize the
calendar of the personal health organizer with an online
synchronized calendar such as Outlook, iCalendar, Google Calendar,
Yahoo Calendar, etc. The calendar can also provide an alarm
function, including a smart clock that can store or access times
for scheduled tests and can determine, based on reading data, if
more tests are needed (invasive or non-invasive). As another
example, when a prescription is entered, the personal health
organizer device in an embodiment tracks medication intake and
provides reminders for taking the prescribed medication.
[0069] In addition, the electronic medical data record integration
module 322 can be configured such that the personal health
organizer can be used by multiple users. For example, each user's
data can be tracked separately on the same device. As a result, for
instance, one family would only have to buy one device for spot
checking, and family members can login via a password or a
biometric identification system as further described below. As
another example, an endocrinologist office could purchase patient
licenses and store the data of patients the office spot-checks,
with the patient records separated by identification tags and
protected via the security features described herein. A skilled
artisan would appreciate that the users' medical data (including
insurance information) could be stored separately on the personal
health organizer or a remote system, e.g., an Electronic Medical
Record (EMR) server located on a remote computing network (e.g.
cloud computing network).
[0070] In an embodiment, the medical data stored on the personal
health organizer can be retrieved by an EMS or a first responder
through the use of a Rad 57 or similar device. A physician can also
perform data retrieval using a similar device. In another
embodiment, the electronic medical data record integration module
322 can be configured to manage medical expenses and
reimbursements. The electronic medical data record integration
module 322 can be used to track health items purchased by the user
and synchronize the items with a medical expense account. The
purchased items can also be compared by a comparison shopper
module/program for best prices and alternative products. The
purchase history information can also be sent to insurance
companies for reimbursement of co-pay overages, for example.
[0071] In another embodiment, the network computing support module
302 can be configured to provide reminders to the user if the
personal health organizer is not with the user. For example, the
user can call the personal health organizer via phone or send an
email or text message with a particular question regarding
appointment times, medication intake schedule, etc. In an
embodiment, the personal health organizer or a data server with
synchronized medical data records within a remote computing network
(e.g. cloud computing network) provides answers to the particular
questions sent.
[0072] Since diabetic patients are likely users of the personal
health organizer and diabetes can sometimes lead to vision
impairment, in an embodiment the electronic medical data record
integration module 322 is configured to synchronize eye care
prescription requirement dates and vision check-ups on a calendar.
In an embodiment, the personal health organizer includes software
for testing the user's vision on the device to determine if a new
prescription is needed. The testing software can include Ishihara
plates and distance charts displayed on the display 206, with the
displayed testing materials sized according to an arm's length
testing distance.
[0073] In yet another embodiment, the electronic medical data
record integration module 322 is configured to coordinate
prescription. For example, once a user's physician verbally
mentions a prescription, the personal health organizer can
acoustically identify the drug term and search for generic
alternatives. Once the physician agrees to the drug (either the
branded drug or the suggested generic alternative), the electronic
medical data record integration module 322 is configured in an
embodiment to locate a closest pharmacy (using the built-in GPS
and/or triangulation software based on cell tower location) with
the best price and provides contact information of the pharmacy to
the user. It can also provide the pharmacy information to a remote
computing network (e.g. cloud computing network) for data
synchronization or send it directly to the user's physician so that
he or she can submit an electronic prescription.
[0074] Various embodiments of the personal health organizer also
provide for exchange of medical data and related information via
email. For example, while a caregiver is taking a reading or
measurement of a patient with the personal health organizer, the
caregiver can ask the patient whether or how the patient would like
to receive information relating to the measurement, and if the
patient prefers email or text messages, the email or text message
format. The caregiver can input these communication preferences and
send an email or text message to the patient at the point of
measurement. In one embodiment, an email of the reading or
measurement is automatically sent to the patient upon the
completion of measurement process. In another embodiment, the email
is sent later at the direction of the caregiver user or at a time
configured by the caregiver user. The email or text message could
also be routed to additional supervising caregivers, medical
records personnel or files, others in the health providing
mechanism for a particular patient, or the like. In some
embodiments, federal, state, local, caregiver facility rulemaking
bodies may place requirements on the distribution and/or content of
the information, including, for example, the level of permission
required for certain types of data based on, for example, the
content thereof. In those instances, the personal health organizer
may advantageously ask the caregiver at the point of measurement to
acquire the appropriate permissions, or withhold sending the email
or text message until such permissions are processed,
authenticated, verified, or otherwise checked and approved or the
like. In other embodiments, the personal health organizer may
review the available permissions and appropriate rule authorities
and determine the format and content of the email or text message
that is available for sending. For example, the personal health
organizer may include less information, less detailed information,
different groupings of medical and/or personal information based on
a particular patient's permissions and/or applicable medical data
disclosure rules. Other forms of electronic communications can also
be used, for example, information can be posted to a website, such
as a private blog. Information can also be sent through various
other information posting websites such as, for example,
Twitter.TM..
[0075] None, some, or all of the information relating to patient
interactions with the personal health organizer can be sent
electronically. For example, emails may be sent to those patients
(e.g. an outpatient) that may take measurements on their own or
have them taken by a non-professional caregiver such a family
member. Emails, text messages, or other electronic communications
can also include reminders, requests for data, advice based on data
obtained, or any other similar personal or medical information.
Electronic Medical Data Integration Processes
[0076] FIGS. 6A and 6B show methods for integrating medical data
records in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein. At block
352, in an embodiment, a signal indicative of the patient
physiological reading is received and/or detected at a sensor of
the personal health organizer (or an associated health data
collection device). At block 354, the personal health organizer (or
an associated health data collection device) can process the signal
to derive or calculate reading data (e.g. derive blood glucose
level based on signal received). At the block 360, the reading data
can be stored locally (e.g. in the storage 204) along with other
medical data of the patient user. At block 362, the personal health
organizer can use the reading data to customize local content at
the personal health organizer, including games and educational
materials. At block 364, the personal health organizer can use the
reading data to generate health reminders and/or recommendations
that are personalized for the patient user.
[0077] At block 356, the reading data can be forwarded to a remote
electronic medical storage. In an embodiment, related medical data
can be forwarded with the reading data as well. At block 372, the
records kept at a centralized medical data storage can be
synchronized with the forwarded reading data and/or related medical
data. At block 374, the forwarded reading data and/or medical data
can be used to generate alerts to healthcare providers. At block
376, the records kept at healthcare providers can be synchronized
with the forwarded reading data and/or medical data. The healthcare
providers can use the forwarded data to generate feedback such as
alerts, data updates, and diagnoses, which are received at the
personal health organizer at block 358 in accordance with an
embodiment.
[0078] The synchronization of data records is further illustrated
in FIG. 6B, where a patient 420 is shown to provide reading data to
a personal health organizer 402, which in turns forwards the
reading data and/or other related medical data of the patient 420
to a network 124. The network 124 can include a remote computing
network (e.g. cloud computing network) comprising of LANs, WANs,
and the Internet. The reading data can be relayed to healthcare
providers 404, who can provide feedback such as alerts, reminders,
and/or diagnoses to the personal health organizer 402 via the
network 124. The healthcare providers 404 can also synchronize
their records based on the forwarded reading data (and/or related
medical data) and in turn provide synchronized and/or updated
medical data back to the personal health organizer 402. Similarly,
the reading data (and/or related medical data) can be forwarded to
the electronic medical record storage 406 via the network, and the
electronic medical record storage 406 can synchronize its records
based on the forwarded reading data (and/or related medical data)
and in turn provide synchronized and/or updated medical data back
to the personal health organizer 402 via the network. The returned
results from the healthcare providers 404 and/or the electronic
medical record storage 406 can be displayed back to the patient 420
and/or used by the personal health organizer for other purposes
such as completing financial costs and deductions to users' medical
expense accounts.
Gaming Module
[0079] In an embodiment, the personal health organizer includes a
gaming module 324 that includes and/or supports a variety of
health-related games. For example, the gaming module 324 can allow
the user to purchase or download games associated with health
training on the disease and written to motivate the emotional state
of the user. As another example, the gaming module 324 can provide
a game that provides a customizable digital pet for children to
disassociate from the disease but learn how to care for the digital
pet and themselves. The digital pet can include interchangeable
configuration data that relate to the appearance of the pet. As a
further example, the gaming module 324 can display a screen saver
that displays a tree either in good or failing condition depending
on a user's ability to live successfully with diabetes. For
example, a user with a small number of doctor visits, missed
insulin injections, bad food choices, and few exercise activities
can be shown a withering tree. Conversely, a user who maintains few
spikes and drops can be shown a healthy, vibrant tree. In another
embodiment, the gaming module 324 can provide an interactive game
based on training/flash cards and tests. The cards and tests can be
based on device usage, health condition/standing, disease
knowledge, latest news findings on cures, etc. The testing and
training can be synchronized over Internet to allow friend and
group competition and participation.
[0080] The gaming module 324 can also be associated with a running
companion module. The module can be used to synchronize training
records for a user based on the user's shoe type or needs. The
module could further be adapted to work with the accelerometer to
function as a pedometer or perform some other assessment of
movement. A skilled artisan would appreciate that the gaming module
324 could use measurements from the pedometer or other assessments
of travel to deduce the required shoe type for a user or life span
of a particular shoe. For example, the gaming module 324 can
determine based on distance traveled, the best shoe type for a user
or the life span of the shoe the user has been using. The gaming
module 324 can utilize the accelerometer 216 in the personal health
organizer to enhance the gaming experience.
External Reading from Additional Health Data Collection Devices
[0081] Embodiments of the personal health organizer include a
sensor interface module 306 that is adapted to connect to sensors
for measuring physiological readings of a user. In an embodiment,
the personal health organizer includes the communications I/O
interface module 304 that is configured to interface with various
health data collection devices and to obtain reading data from
those devices. For example, the personal health organizer can
connect to an insulin pump to obtain performance and historical
record of pump behavior and dosing. In an embodiment, the personal
health organizer connects via the Bluetooth.RTM. protocol (e.g.
Near Field Connect (NFC) Bluetooth 2.1 +EDR) or any other short
range wireless connection protocol. In another example, the
personal health organizer device can connect to a kidney urine test
(sensor), which is a separate sensor adapted to scan the litmus
urine test to check protein level in the blood and kidney function.
This urine test reading data can be tracked along with other
reading and/or patient medical data by the one or more of the
modules disclosed herein, e.g., medical data analysis module 326,
to detect whether changes have occurred. The detected changes can
be correlated with other medical data such as medication schedules
to determine whether the changes have occurred as a result of new
medication or progression of disease and damage to organs.
[0082] In an embodiment, the personal health organizer is adapted
to obtain reading from a weight scale (e.g. specific brands of
electronics scales) to gather weight reading. In another
embodiment, an optional thin pad sensor or digital scale tennis
shoes can connect via a long cable or wirelessly to the personal
health organizer device via, e.g., the interface component 208
shown in FIG. 4. The user stands on connected pad and the weight
data is input into the medical data record of the user as kept by
the personal health organizer or sent to a remote computing network
(e.g. cloud computing network) for medical data
synchronization.
[0083] In another embodiment, the personal health organizer is
adapted to connect to a sleep sensor, which includes a finger or a
toe adhesive sensor that records data to a solid state drive. The
recorded data can then be downloaded to the personal health
organizer device the next morning to obtain hours of reading data
recorded while the user was asleep. The connection to the sleep
sensor can be wireless, e.g., the personal health organizer device
can near field connect (NFC) to the sensor. Optionally, the sleep
sensor can include a component that sends reading data in real time
to the personal health organizer device (e.g. via Bluetooth.RTM.
2.1 +EDR (300' range)), and instructs the personal health organizer
to contact medical personnel or an emergency contact if the reading
data indicates a urgent medical need.
[0084] In other embodiments, sensors and/or devices measuring
physiological parameters such as Glucose, PR, CO, SpO2,
Cholesterol, LDL, HDL, SpHb, Hemoglobin A1C, SpHet, SpMet, oxygen
content, bilirubin, etc. can be connected to the personal health
organizer device. In an embodiment, the interface 208 includes a
universal interface that is adapted to connect to various kinds of
home used medical equipment such as blood pressure measuring
devices, body temperature thermometers, etc. In other embodiments,
the personal health device connects these external health data
collection devices through one or more wired or wireless
connections as discussed above in conjunction with the interface
208 shown in FIG. 4.
Medical Information and Education--Rankings and Reviews
[0085] The personal health organizer can also include a medical
information and education module 328 that provides
healthcare-related information. For example, the medical
information and education module 328 can download and provide
endocrinologist rankings, hospital rankings, ophthalmologist
rankings, podiatrist rankings, surgeon rankings, etc.
Endocrinologist rankings can, for example, provide a specialist
listing service for best ranked doctors in a user's area (based on
GPS location or ZIP code) or elsewhere. These hospital, surgeon,
and/or ophthalmologist rankings could also provide reviews based on
care of diabetes. In addition or in lieu of the rankings, the
medical information and education module 328 can provide diabetes
product reviews. These reviews could include reviews of equipment,
needles, pumps, medications, etc. These reviews and rankings can be
periodically updated via the use of the network computing support
module 302 and/or the communications I/O interface module 304.
Medical Information and Education--Other Information and Online
Communities
[0086] In an embodiment, the medical information and education
module 328 includes one or more of the following sub-modules.
First, it can include a gestational diabetes sub-module that allows
for the integration of information and settings specific to the
term of pregnancy and the user's concerns. The gestational diabetes
sub-module can show pictures of the fetus in each stage of
development, and can further be synchronized with the user's
calendar and week by week progression. The sub-module can also
assist with monitoring timers, medication reminders, and prenatal
timers etc. Second, the medical information and education module
328 can include a "Personal Nurse Educator" sub-module. The
sub-module can be paid for by an insurance company to provide a
24-hour nurse on call service, with the service specifically
allowed to access the user's medical information stored within a
remote computing network (e.g. cloud computing network), including
data stored on the personal health organizer device. The sub-module
enables the user to chat with, send text messages to, email, or
phone (including video conference) the on-call nurse with specific
questions.
[0087] Third, the medical information and education module 328 can
include an online health information and chat forum access
sub-module. For example, the sub-module can provide latest
information on diabetes provided by the diabetes community,
including medication information, medical definitions, medical
theories, leading developments in cures, and equipment available in
various countries. The sub-module can also provide access to
support groups. In an embodiment, the sub-module can play back
recorded phonic files of correct pronunciations of medications or
medical terms. Fourth, the medical information and education module
328 can include a diabetes events calendar sub-module that shows
local events and/or global events about diabetes (e.g., world
diabetes day, fundraisers etc.), including information on how to
get involved or donate directly from the personal health organizer
device.
Additional Features
[0088] In an embodiment, the personal health organizer includes the
communications I/O interface module 304 for providing wireless
access to the Internet. Access can be provided via any known
protocols such as Wi-Fi, WiMAX, 3G, 4G, CDMA, GSM, etc. For
instance, the communications module 304 can be configured to
provide free Wi-Fi access at doctor's office. Similarly,
communications module 304 can be associated with an IP Telephony
program such as Skype. This could allow video conferencing (e.g.,
using built-in camera 214) between a user of the personal health
organizer and his or her physician. The program can also allow
Internet based calling via Vonage, Skype or other VOIP
providers.
Verification/Security
[0089] In an embodiment, the device security module 342 provides a
number of security features to secure data stored on the personal
health organizer device or otherwise prevent unauthorized access to
the device. In an embodiment, if the personal health organizer
device is lost, the device security module 342 enables the device
to be located with a remote computing network (e.g. cloud computing
network). For example, the owner of a lost device can trace the
location of the device via the GPS receiver embedded in the device,
or through network address (e.g. IP address) tracing when the
device is logged onto a network. Additionally, if the user
misplaced the device, the device security module 342 can generate
audible or visual alerts such as whistle, beep, vibrate or blink
(e.g. through the audio component 244) when the user calls it or
accesses it through a network.
[0090] In another embodiment, if the device is used by a new user,
based on the new user's reading (e.g. blood glucose reading), the
device security module 342 can recognize that the user has changed.
The device can then prompt the new user to enter a password. The
device security module 342 can also utilize biometric
identification, for example, through the built-in camera 214. The
device security module 342 can recognize the face and expressions
of the user from the camera. Another embodiment includes an
additional rear sub CCD or CMOS camera placed behind an LCD or OLED
screen so the user could be prompted for finger print or palm
identification. In addition, a CCD or CMOS camera can be embedded
in the sensor to take picture of the user's finger print. In
addition to or in place of external biometric identification, a
special near infrared emitter detector can absorb the unique vein
pattern of the finger. The device security module 342 can also
utilize the CCD or CMOS camera to distinguish among patients when
the device is shared among multiple patients (e.g. in a hospital
setting for where a healthcare personnel is using the device for
multiple patients). Once a patient's finger print is recognized,
the device automatically brings up the patient's file.
Example Health Data Collection Device
[0091] FIG. 7 illustrates an example of a health data collection
device 112. In the depicted embodiment, the monitoring device 118
includes a finger clip sensor 116 connected to a monitor 118 via a
cable 452. In the embodiment shown, the monitor 118 includes a
display 456, control buttons 454 and a power button. Moreover, the
monitor 118 can advantageously include electronic processing,
signal processing, and data storage devices capable of receiving
signal data from said sensor 116, processing the signal data to
determine one or more output measurement values indicative of one
or more physiological parameters of a monitored patient, and
displaying the measurement values, trends of the measurement
values, combinations of measurement values, and the like.
[0092] The cable 452 connecting the sensor 116 and the monitor 118
can be implemented using one or more wires, optical fiber, flex
circuits, or the like. In some embodiments, the cable 452 can
employ twisted pairs of conductors in order to minimize or reduce
cross-talk of data transmitted from the sensor 116 to the monitor
118. Various lengths of the cable 452 can be employed to allow for
separation between the sensor 116 and the monitor 118. The cable
452 can be fitted with a connector (male or female) on either end
of the cable 452 so that the sensor 116 and the monitor 118 can be
connected and disconnected from each other. Alternatively, the
sensor 116 and the monitor 118 can be coupled together via a
wireless communication link, such as an infrared link, radio
frequency channel, or any other wireless communication protocol and
channel.
[0093] The monitor 118 can be attached to the patient. For example,
the monitor 118 can include a belt clip or straps that facilitate
attachment to a patient's belt, arm, leg, or the like. The monitor
118 can also include a fitting, slot, magnet, snap-click connector
(e.g., connectors manufactured by LEMO S.A. of Switzerland), or
other connecting mechanism to allow the cable 452 and sensor 116 to
be attached to the monitor 118.
[0094] The monitor 118 can also include other components, such as a
speaker, power button, removable storage or memory (e.g., a flash
card slot), an AC or DC power port, and one or more network
interfaces, such as a universal serial bus interface or an Ethernet
port. For example, the monitor 118 can include a display 456 that
can indicate a measurement for glucose, for example, in mg/dL.
Other analytes and forms of display can also appear on the monitor
118.
[0095] In addition, although a single sensor 116 with a single
monitor 118 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.
[0096] FIG. 8 is a block diagram that illustrates the components of
an example of a health data collection device 112. In certain
embodiments, the health data collection device 112 noninvasively
measures a blood analyte, such as oxygen, carbon monoxide,
methemoglobin, total hemoglobin, glucose, proteins, glucose,
lipids, a percentage thereof (e.g., saturation) or for measuring
many other physiologically relevant patient characteristics. The
device 112 can also measure additional blood analytes and/or other
physiological parameters useful in determining a state or trend of
wellness of a patient.
[0097] The data collection device 112 can be capable of measuring
optical radiation from the measurement site. For example, in some
embodiments, the data collection device 112 can employ photodiodes
defined in terms of area. In an embodiment, the area is from about
1 mm.sup.2-5 mm.sup.2 (or higher) that 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, as would be understood
by a person of skill in the art from the present disclosure,
various other sizes and types of photodiodes can be used with the
embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0098] The data collection device 112 can measure a range of
approximately about 2 nA to about 100 nA full scale. The data
collection device 112 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 device 112 can operate with a lower
SNR if less accuracy is needed for an analyte like glucose.
[0099] The data collection device 112 can measure analyte
concentrations, including glucose, at least in part by detecting
light attenuated by a measurement site 502. The measurement site
502 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
502. However, the features of the embodiments disclosed herein can
be used with other measurement sites 502.
[0100] In the depicted embodiment, the device 112 includes an
optional tissue thickness adjuster or tissue shaper 522, which can
include one or more protrusions, bumps, lenses, or other suitable
tissue-shaping mechanisms. In certain embodiments, the tissue
shaper 522 is a flat or substantially flat surface that can be
positioned proximate the measurement site 502 and that can apply
sufficient pressure to cause the tissue of the measurement site 502
to be flat or substantially flat. In other embodiments, the tissue
shaper 522 is a convex or substantially convex surface with respect
to the measurement site 502. Many other configurations of the
tissue shaper 522 are possible. Advantageously, in certain
embodiments, the tissue shaper 522 reduces thickness of the
measurement site 502 while preventing or reducing occlusion at the
measurement site 502. 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.
[0101] The embodiment of the data collection device 112 shown also
includes an optional noise shield 526. In an embodiment, the noise
shield 526 can be advantageously adapted to reduce electromagnetic
noise while increasing the transmittance of light from the
measurement site 502 to one or more detectors 506 (described
below). For example, the noise shield 526 can advantageously
include a conductive coated glass or metal grid electrically
communicating with one or more other shields of the sensor 116 or
electrically grounded. In an embodiment where the noise shield 526
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. As would be understood by a person of skill in the
art from the present disclosure, other resistivities can also be
used which are less than about 30 ohms or more than about 500 ohms.
Other conductive materials transparent or substantially transparent
to light can be used instead.
[0102] In some embodiments, the measurement site 502 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 one embodiment, the
data collection device 112 can recognize a user's or patient's
non-dominant arm/hand by comparing the two arms/hands according to
various types of physiological data/measurements. For example, 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
device 112 can be used on a person's non-dominant hand or arm.
[0103] The data collection device 112 can include a sensor 116 (or
multiple sensors) that is coupled to a processing device or
physiological monitor 118. In an embodiment, the sensor 116 and the
monitor 118 are integrated together into a single unit. In another
embodiment, the sensor 116 and the monitor 118 are separate from
each other and communicate one with another in any suitable manner,
such as via a wired or wireless connection. The sensor 116 and
monitor 118 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 116 and the monitor 118
will now be further described.
[0104] In the depicted embodiment shown in FIG. 8, the sensor 116
includes an emitter 504, a tissue shaper 522, a set of detectors
506, and a front-end interface 508. The emitter 504 can serve as
the source of optical radiation transmitted towards measurement
site 102. As will be described in further detail below, the emitter
504 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 504 includes sets of optical sources
that are capable of emitting visible and near-infrared optical
radiation.
[0105] In some embodiments, the emitter 504 is used as a point
optical source, and thus, the one or more optical sources of the
emitter 504 can be located within a close distance to each other,
such as within about a 2 mm to about 4 mm. The emitters 504 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 504 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 504.
[0106] 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.
[0107] In contrast, the emitter 504 of the data collection device
112 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 504 can emit
optical radiation at three (3) or more wavelengths between about
1600 nm to about 1700 nm. In particular, the emitter 504 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.
[0108] In other embodiments, the emitter 504 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 504 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.
[0109] For example, the emitter 504 can emit optical radiation
across other spectra for other analytes. In particular, the emitter
504 can employ light wavelengths to measure various blood analytes
or percentages (e.g., saturation) thereof. For example, in an
embodiment, the emitter 504 can emit optical radiation in the form
of pulses at wavelengths about 905 nm, about 1050 nm, about 1200
nm, about 1300 nm, about 1330 nm, about 1610 nm, about 1640 nm, and
about 1665 nm. In another embodiment, the emitter 504 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 about 1590
nm to about 1700 nm. Of course, the emitter 504 can transmit any of
a variety of wavelengths of visible or near-infrared optical
radiation.
[0110] Due to the different responses of analytes to the different
wavelengths, certain embodiments of the data collection device 112
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.
[0111] As briefly described above, the emitter 504 can include sets
of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) as its optical source. The emitter
504 can use one or more top-emitting LEDs. In particular, in some
embodiments, the emitter 504 can include top-emitting LEDs emitting
light at about 850 nm to 1350 nm.
[0112] The emitter 504 can also use super luminescent LEDs (SLEDs)
or side-emitting LEDs. In some embodiments, the emitter 504 can
employ SLEDs or side-emitting LEDs to emit optical radiation at
about 1600 nm to about 1700 nm. Emitter 504 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, the embodiments of the
present disclosure 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 504 can use other
types of sources of optical radiation, such as a laser diode, to
emit near-infrared light into the measurement site 502.
[0113] 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 504 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 504 to use LEDs with a higher output and/or to
equalize intensity of LEDs.
[0114] The data collection device 112 also includes a driver 520
that drives the emitter 504. The driver 520 can be a circuit or the
like that is controlled by the monitor 118. For example, the driver
520 can provide pulses of current to the emitter 504. In an
embodiment, the driver 520 drives the emitter 504 in a progressive
fashion, such as in an alternating manner. The driver 520 can drive
the emitter 504 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.
[0115] The driver 520 can be synchronized with other parts of the
sensor 116 and can minimize or reduce jitter in the timing of
pulses of optical radiation emitted from the emitter 504. In some
embodiments, the driver 520 is capable of driving the emitter 504
to emit optical radiation in a pattern that varies by less than
about 10 parts-per-million.
[0116] The detectors 506 capture and measure light from the
measurement site 502. For example, the detectors 506 can capture
and measure light transmitted from the emitter 504 that has been
attenuated or reflected from the tissue in the measurement site
502. The detectors 506 can output a detector signal 524 responsive
to the light captured or measured. The detectors 506 can be
implemented using one or more photodiodes, phototransistors, or the
like.
[0117] In addition, the detectors 506 can be arranged with a
spatial configuration to provide a variation of path lengths among
at least some of the detectors 506. That is, some of the detectors
506 can have the substantially, or from the perspective of the
processing algorithm, effectively, the same path length from the
emitter 504. However, according to an embodiment, at least some of
the detectors 506 can have a different path length from the emitter
504 relative to other of the detectors 506. Variations in path
lengths can be helpful in allowing the use of a bulk signal stream
from the detectors 506. In some embodiments, the detectors 506 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.
[0118] The front-end interface 508 provides an interface that
adapts the output of the detectors 506, which is responsive to
desired physiological parameters. For example, the front-end
interface 508 can adapt a signal 524 received from one or more of
the detectors 506 into a form that can be processed by the monitor
118, for example, by a signal processor 510 in the monitor 118. The
front-end interface 508 can have its components assembled in the
sensor 116, in the monitor 118, in connecting cabling (if used),
combinations of the same, or the like. The location of the
front-end interface 508 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.
[0119] The front-end interface 508 can be coupled to the detectors
506 and to the signal processor 510 using a bus, wire, electrical
or optical cable, flex circuit, or some other form of signal
connection. The front-end interface 508 can also be at least
partially integrated with various components, such as the detectors
506. For example, the front-end interface 508 can include one or
more integrated circuits that are on the same circuit board as the
detectors 506. Other configurations can also be used.
[0120] The front-end interface 508 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 118), such as a sigma-delta ADC. A
transimpedance-based front-end interface 508 can employ
single-ended circuitry, differential circuitry, and/or a hybrid
configuration. A transimpedance-based front-end interface 508 can
be useful for its sampling rate capability and freedom in
modulation/demodulation algorithms. For example, this type of
front-end interface 508 can advantageously facilitate the sampling
of the ADCs being synchronized with the pulses emitted from the
emitter 504.
[0121] The ADC or ADCs can provide one or more outputs into
multiple channels of digital information for processing by the
signal processor 510 of the monitor 118. Each channel can
correspond to a signal output from a detector 506.
[0122] In some embodiments, a programmable gain amplifier (PGA) can
be used in combination with a transimpedance-based front-end
interface 508. For example, the output of a transimpedance-based
front-end interface 508 can be output to a PGA that is coupled with
an ADC in the monitor 118. A PGA can be useful in order to provide
another level of amplification and control of the stream of signals
from the detectors 506. Alternatively, the PGA and ADC components
can be integrated with the transimpedance-based front-end interface
508 in the sensor 116.
[0123] In another embodiment, the front-end interface 508 can be
implemented using switched-capacitor circuits. A
switched-capacitor-based front-end interface 508 can be useful for,
in certain embodiments, its resistor-free design and analog
averaging properties. In addition, a switched-capacitor-based
front-end interface 508 can be useful because it can provide a
digital signal to the signal processor 510 in the monitor 118.
[0124] As shown in FIG. 8, the monitor 118 can include the signal
processor 510 and a user interface, such as a display 512. The
monitor 109 can also include optional outputs alone or in
combination with the display 512, such as a storage device 514 and
a network interface 516. In an embodiment, the signal processor 510
includes processing logic that determines measurements for desired
analytes, such as glucose, based on the signals received from the
detectors 506. The signal processor 510 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.
[0125] The signal processor 510 can provide various signals that
control the operation of the sensor 116. For example, the signal
processor 510 can provide an emitter control signal to the driver
520. This control signal can be useful in order to synchronize,
minimize, or reduce jitter in the timing of pulses emitted from the
emitter 504. Accordingly, this control signal can be useful in
order to cause optical radiation pulses emitted from the emitter
504 to follow a precise timing and consistent pattern. For example,
when a transimpedance-based front-end interface 508 is used, the
control signal from the signal processor 510 can provide
synchronization with the ADC in order to avoid aliasing,
cross-talk, and the like. As also shown, an optional memory 518 can
be included in the front-end interface 508 and/or in the signal
processor 510. This memory 518 can serve as a buffer or storage
location for the front-end interface 508 and/or the signal
processor 510, among other uses.
[0126] The user interface 112 can provide an output, e.g., on a
display, for presentation to a user of the data collection device
112. The user interface 112 can be implemented as a touch-screen
display, an LCD display, an organic LED display, or the like. In
addition, the user interface 112 can be manipulated to allow for
measurement on the non-dominant side of patient. For example, the
user interface 112 can include a flip screen, a screen that can be
moved from one side to another on the monitor 118, or can include
an ability to reorient its display indicia responsive to user input
or device orientation. In alternative embodiments, the data
collection device 112 can be provided without a user interface 112
and can simply provide an output signal to a separate display or
system.
[0127] A storage device 514 and a network interface 516 represent
other optional output connections that can be included in the
monitor 118. The storage device 514 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
514, which can be executed by the signal processor 510 or another
processor of the monitor 118. The network interface 516 can be a
serial bus port (RS-232/RS-485), a Universal Serial Bus (USB) port,
an Ethernet port, a wireless interface (e.g., Wi-Fi such as any
802.1x interface, including an internal wireless card), or other
suitable communication device(s) that allows the monitor 118 to
communicate and share data with other devices. The monitor 118 can
also include various other components not shown, such as a
microprocessor, graphics processor, or controller to output the
user interface 112, to control data communications, to compute data
trending, or to perform other operations.
[0128] Although not shown in the depicted embodiment, the data
collection device 112 can include various other components or can
be configured in different ways. For example, the sensor 116 can
have both the emitter 504 and detectors 506 on the same side of the
measurement site 502 and use reflectance to measure analytes. The
data collection device 112 can also include a sensor that measures
the power of light emitted from the emitter 504.
CONCLUSION
[0129] In general, the word "module," as used herein, refers to
logic embodied in hardware or firmware, or to a collection of
software instructions, possibly having entry and exit points,
written in a programming language, such as, for example, Java, Lua,
C or C++. A software module may be compiled and linked into an
executable program, installed in a shared library, or may be
written in an interpreted programming language such as, for
example, BASIC, Perl, Python or in a scripting language. It will be
appreciated that software modules may be callable from other
modules or from themselves, and/or may be invoked in response to
detected events or interrupts. Software instructions may be
embedded in firmware, which is stored on a memory such as an EPROM.
It will be further appreciated that hardware modules may be
comprised of connected logic units, such as gates and flip-flops,
and/or may be comprised of programmable units, such as programmable
gate arrays or processors. The modules described herein are
preferably implemented as software modules, but may be represented
in hardware or firmware. Generally, the modules described herein
refer to logical modules that may be combined with other modules or
divided into sub-modules despite their physical organization or
storage.
[0130] 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.
[0131] While certain embodiments of the inventions disclosed herein
have been described, these embodiments have been presented by way
of example only, and are not intended to limit the scope of the
inventions disclosed herein. Indeed, the novel methods and systems
described herein can be embodied in a variety of other forms;
furthermore, various omissions, substitutions and changes in the
form of the methods and systems described herein can be made
without departing from the spirit of the inventions disclosed
herein. The claims and their equivalents are intended to cover such
forms or modifications as would fall within the scope and spirit of
certain of the inventions disclosed herein.
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