U.S. patent application number 17/687761 was filed with the patent office on 2022-07-28 for adhesive patches for the attachment of radiofrequency (rf) electromagnetic (em) cup-shaped probe with radiation absorbing material.
This patent application is currently assigned to Sensible Medical Innovations Ltd.. The applicant listed for this patent is Sensible Medical Innovations Ltd.. Invention is credited to Shlomi BERGIDA, Amir SAROKA.
Application Number | 20220233145 17/687761 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | |
Filed Date | 2022-07-28 |
United States Patent
Application |
20220233145 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
SAROKA; Amir ; et
al. |
July 28, 2022 |
ADHESIVE PATCHES FOR THE ATTACHMENT OF RADIOFREQUENCY (RF)
ELECTROMAGNETIC (EM) CUP-SHAPED PROBE WITH RADIATION ABSORBING
MATERIAL
Abstract
An adhesive patch for attaching at least one EM probe to a
subject's body, the adhesive patch comprising a planar member
having at least one layer of radiation absorbing material and
having at least one opening formed within the radiation absorbing
material to allow the propagation of EM radiation via the opening
from one side of the planar member to the other. The adhesive patch
further comprises at least one layer of an adhesive attached over
at least part of a bottom surface of the planar member, which
adhesive layer may be applied so as to form a pattern on the bottom
surface, the pattern comprising at least one adhesive-covered
portion and at least one adhesive-free portion.
Inventors: |
SAROKA; Amir; (Herzlia,
IL) ; BERGIDA; Shlomi; (Ein Sarid, IL) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Sensible Medical Innovations Ltd. |
Netanya |
|
IL |
|
|
Assignee: |
Sensible Medical Innovations
Ltd.
Netanya
IL
|
Appl. No.: |
17/687761 |
Filed: |
March 7, 2022 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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14398525 |
Nov 3, 2014 |
11266350 |
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PCT/IL2013/050373 |
May 2, 2013 |
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17687761 |
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61641919 |
May 3, 2012 |
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International
Class: |
A61B 5/00 20060101
A61B005/00; A61B 5/0507 20060101 A61B005/0507; A61B 5/24 20060101
A61B005/24; A61B 5/05 20060101 A61B005/05 |
Claims
1. An adhesive patch for attaching at least one EM probe to a
subject's body, the adhesive patch comprising: a planar member
comprising at least one layer of radiation absorbing material; at
least one layer of an adhesive attached over at least part of a
bottom surface of the planar member; and at least one opening
formed within the at least one layer of radiation absorbing
material to allow the propagation of EM radiation via the opening
from one side of the planar member to the other.
2. The adhesive patch of claim 1, wherein said radiation absorbing
material is selected from the group of materials having at least
one of the following: a permeability loss tangent of (tan
.delta.=.mu.''/.mu.')>0.01 for all EM radiation frequencies
within the range of 100 MHz-5 GHz; a permittivity loss tangent of
(tan .delta.=.epsilon.''/.epsilon.')>0.01 for all EM radiation
frequencies within the range of 100 MHz-5 GHz; a partial
conduciveness manifested by a surface resistivity between 20 and
10,000 Ohm per square (.OMEGA./sq); and a volumetric resistivity
greater than 10.sup.-3 Ohm meter (.OMEGA.m).
3. The adhesive patch of claim 1, comprising a battery for
providing power to an EM probe when the EM probe is attached to the
adhesive patch.
4. The adhesive patch of claim 1, comprising at least one
mechanical connector for connecting at least one EM probe to the
planar member at a position overlapping the opening.
5. The adhesive patch of claim 4, wherein at least one of the at
least one mechanical connector is configured for detachably
connecting the at least one EM probe to the planar member at a
position overlapping the opening.
6. The adhesive patch of claim 1, comprising a cover positioned
over the opening, the cover being shaped and sized to receive an EM
element.
7. The adhesive patch of claim 1, wherein the at least one layer of
adhesive extends below at least one of the at least one
opening.
8. The adhesive patch of claim 1, comprising a plurality of
openings formed within the at least one layer of radiation
absorbing material to allow the propagation of EM radiation via at
least a plurality of the plurality of openings from one side of the
planar member to the other.
9. The adhesive patch of claim 8, comprising at least one connector
for connecting one EM probe to the planar member at a position
overlapping at least two of the plurality of openings.
10. The adhesive patch of claim 8, comprising at least one
connector for connecting a plurality of EM probes to the planar
member.
11. The adhesive patch of claim 1, wherein the adhesive is attached
over at least part of a surface covering 70% or less of the patch
contact surface.
12. The adhesive patch of claim 11, wherein at least part of the
surface of the planar member is an adhesive-free portion.
13. The adhesive patch of claim 12, wherein at least part of the
adhesive-free portion is covered by a skin soothing agent.
14. The adhesive patch of claim 1, wherein the patch is configured
to be worn for a period of time of 24 hours or longer.
15. The adhesive patch of claim 1, wherein said adhesive is
attached to the bottom surface at a pattern comprising at least one
adhesive-covered portion and at least one adhesive-free portion,
wherein the pattern is such that the adhesive patch may be attached
to a surface area at at least a first position and at a second
position such that: the portion of the surface area that is covered
by the at least one opening of the adhesive patch at the first
position overlaps the portion of the surface area covered by the
opening of the adhesive patch at the second position by at least
30%; and the portion of the surface area that is covered by the at
least one adhesive-covered portion of the adhesive patch at the
first position overlaps the portion of the surface area that is
covered by the at least one adhesive-covered portion of the
adhesive patch at the second position by less than 30%.
16. The adhesive patch of claim 14, wherein the portion of the
surface area covered by the adhesive patch at the first position
overlaps the portion of the surface area covered by the adhesive
patch at the second position by at least 90%.
17. The adhesive patch of claim 15, wherein the patch at the first
position is at a first rotational orientation and the patch at the
first position is at a second rotational orientation being
different from the first rotational orientation.
18. The adhesive patch of claim 16, wherein the first rotation
differs from the second rotation by about 180.degree..
19. The adhesive patch of claim 16, wherein the first rotation
differs from the second rotation by about 90.degree..
20. The adhesive patch of claim 14, wherein the portion of the
surface area that is covered by the at least one adhesive-covered
portion of the adhesive patch at the first position overlaps the
portion of the surface area that is covered by the at least one
adhesive-covered portion of the adhesive patch at the second
position by less than 10%.
Description
RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a Continuation of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 14/398,525 filed on Nov. 3, 2014, which is a
National Phase of PCT Patent Application No. PCT/IL2013/050373
having International Filing Date of May 2, 2013, which claims the
benefit of priority under 35 USC .sctn. 119(e) of U.S. Provisional
Patent Application No. 61/641,919 filed on May 3, 2012. The
contents of the above applications are all incorporated by
reference as if fully set forth herein in their entirety.
FIELD AND BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention, in some embodiments thereof, relates
to an electromagnetic EM probe and, more particularly, but not
exclusively, to an EM probe for transmission and/or reception of
electromagnetic radiation and a method of generating the EM
probe.
[0003] EM radiation, such as RF and MW radiation, is potentially
useful means of monitoring and diagnosing body tissues. The
dielectric properties of the tissues may be a basis of detecting
various pathologies and physiological trends.
Examples for using RF and MW radiation for monitoring and
diagnosing body tissues is found, inter alia, in International
patent application pub. No WO 2010/100649, International patent
application pub. No WO 2009/031150, and/or International patent
application pub. No 2009/031149, which are incorporated herein by
reference. The design and fabrication of such EM probes present
various challenges.
[0004] During the last years, various EM probes have been
developed. For example U.S. Pat. No. 6,233,479 describes a
Microwave Hematoma Detector which is a non-invasive device designed
to detect and localize blood pooling and clots near the outer
surface of the body. While being geared towards finding subdural
and epidural hematomas, the device can be used to detect blood
pooling anywhere near the surface of the body. Modified versions of
the device can also detect pneumothorax, organ hemorrhage,
atherosclerotic plaque in the carotid arteries, evaluate perfusion
(blood flow) at or near the body surface, body tissue damage at or
near the surface (especially for burn assessment) and be used in a
number of NDE applications. The device is based on low power pulsed
microwave technology combined with a specialized antenna, signal
processing/recognition algorithms and a disposable cap worn by the
patient which will facilitate accurate mapping of the brain and
proper function of the instrument. The invention may be used for
rapid, non-invasive detection of subdural or epidural hematoma in
human or animal patients, detection of hemorrhage within
approximately 5 cm of the outer surface anywhere on a patient's
body.
[0005] Another example is described in U.S. Pat. No. 7,184,824
which describes an EM probe for examining tissue in order to
differentiate it from other tissue according to the dielectric
properties of the examined tissue are provided. The EM probe
includes an inner conductor, having a plurality of sharp, thin,
conductive spikes, at a proximal end with respect to a tissue for
examination, the plurality of sharp, thin, conductive spikes being
operative to enhance the electrical fringe fields, where
interaction with the tissue for examination occurs.
[0006] Another example is described in U.S. Pat. No. 7,591,792
which describes: a tissue sensors house for one or more sensor
elements. Each element has a housing mounted substrate and a
superstrate with a planar antenna between. A transitional periphery
(TP) of a superstrate outer surface interconnects a base to a
plateau. At least some of the TP has a generally smooth transition.
Plural elements are spaced by the housing. Alternately, the
superstrate TP is flat, the housing extends to the outer
superstrate surface and a shield surrounds the element. The housing
is flush with or recessed below the superstrate and defines a TP
between the housing and superstrate. A method converts a reference
signal to complex form; plots it in a complex plane as a reference
point (RP); converts a measurement signal to complex form; plots it
in the complex plane as a measurement point (MP); determine a
complex distance between the MP and the RP; and compares complex
distance to a threshold.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] According to some embodiments of the present invention there
is provided an electromagnetic (EM) probe for monitoring at least
one biological tissue. The EM probe comprises a cup shaped cavity
having an opening and an interior volume, a circumferential flange
formed substantially around the cup shaped cavity, in proximity to
the opening, at least one layer of a material, for absorbing
electromagnetic radiation, applied over at least one of a portion
of the circumferential flange and a portion of the outer surface of
the cup shaped cavity, and at least one EM radiation element which
performs at least one of emitting and capturing EM radiation via
the interior volume.
[0008] Optionally, the at least one layer covers at least the edge
of the bottom surface of the circumferential flange.
[0009] Optionally, the portion of the at least one layer covers at
least 25% of the bottom surface of the circumferential flange.
[0010] Optionally, at least part of the circumferential flange is
set to be detachably connected to the cup shaped cavity.
[0011] More optionally, the circumferential flange is set to be
affixed to a monitored user so as to allow detachably connecting
the cup shaped cavity thereto, in a manner that the opening faces a
skin area of the monitored user.
[0012] Optionally, the at least one EM radiation element is placed
in the interior volume.
[0013] Optionally, the at least one EM radiation element is placed
outside of the interior volume and connected by a waveguide to the
cup shaped cavity.
[0014] Optionally, the circumferential flange and cup shaped cavity
are molded as a single unit.
[0015] Optionally, the at least one layer is applied over at least
one of a bottom side of the circumferential flange and a top side
of the circumferential flange.
[0016] Optionally, the circumferential flange is
non-continuous.
[0017] Optionally, the circumferential flange is at least partly
flexible.
[0018] Optionally, the circumferential flange is at least partly
rigid.
[0019] Optionally, the circumferential flange is zigzagged along a
plane parallel to the opening.
[0020] Optionally, the EM probe further comprises a processing
unit, electrically connected to the emitting element, which
performs at least one of controlling a transmission parameter of
the emitted EM radiation and monitoring a biological tissue
according to the captured EM radiation.
[0021] Optionally, the distance between the peripheral outer edge
and the peripheral inner edge of the circumferential flange is at
least 0.3 centimeters.
[0022] Optionally, the cup shaped cavity having a structure shape
selected from a group consisting of: a box, a cube, a dome, a cone,
and a pyramid.
[0023] Optionally, the EM radiation is reflected from a biological
medium being in touch with the edges of the opening.
[0024] Optionally, the EM radiation is emitted by another EM
radiation source, via a biological medium being substantially in
front of the opening.
[0025] Optionally, the EM radiation source is another EM probe as
defined in claim 1.
[0026] Optionally, the interior volume is filled with a dielectric
substance.
[0027] Optionally, the EM probe is fabricated by a printed circuit
board (PCB) fabrication method.
[0028] Optionally, the EM radiation is selected from a group
consisting of radiofrequency (RF) radiation and microwave (MW)
radiation.
[0029] Optionally, the circumferential flange is a non-circular
circumferential flange.
[0030] Optionally, the circumferential flange is at least partly
inside the cup shaped cavity.
[0031] Optionally, the circumferential flange is configured to form
an airtight interface with a skin area of a patient, the airtight
interface set to attach the EM probe to a skin area of a patient by
air pressure differences.
[0032] Optionally, the EM probe is an intrabody probe.
[0033] According to some embodiments of the present invention there
is provided a method of producing an electromagnetic (EM) probe for
monitoring at least one biological tissue. The method comprises
providing a cup shaped cavity having an opening and an interior
volume, forming a circumferential flange substantially around the
cup shaped cavity, applying at least one layer of a material for
absorbing electromagnetic radiation over at least one of a portion
of the circumferential flange and a portion of the outer surface of
the cup shaped cavity, placing an emitting element configured for
at least one of emitting and capturing EM radiation, and
electrically connecting the emitting element to at least one of an
EM receiver and an EM transmitter.
[0034] According to some embodiments of the present invention there
is provided a method of monitoring at least one biological tissue.
The method comprises providing a probe having a cup shaped cavity
having an opening and an interior volume, a circumferential flange
formed substantially around the cup shaped cavity, in proximity to
the opening, at least one layer of a material, for absorbing
electromagnetic radiation, applied over at least one of a portion
of the circumferential flange and a portion of the outer surface of
the cup shaped cavity, and at least one EM radiation element which
performs at least one of emitting and capturing EM radiation via
the interior volume and attaching the probe to a monitored user in
a manner that the opening faces a skin area of the monitored
user.
[0035] According to some embodiments, an adhesive patch is provided
for attaching at least one EM probe to a subject's body, the
adhesive patch comprising: [0036] a planar member comprising at
least one layer of radiation absorbing material; [0037] at least
one layer of an adhesive attached over at least part of a bottom
surface of the planar member; and [0038] at least one opening
formed within the at least one layer of radiation absorbing
material to allow the propagation of EM radiation via the opening
from one side of the planar member to the other.
[0039] In some embodiments, the radiation absorbing material is
selected from the group of materials having at least one of the
following: [0040] a permeability loss tangent of (tan
.delta.=.mu.''/.mu.')>0.01 for all EM radiation frequencies
within the range of 100 MHz-5 GHz; [0041] a permittivity loss
tangent of (tan .delta.=.epsilon.''/.epsilon.')>0.01 for all EM
radiation frequencies within the range of 100 MHz-5 GHz; [0042] a
partial conduciveness manifested by a surface resistivity between
20 and 10,000 Ohm per square (.OMEGA./sq); and [0043] a volumetric
resistivity greater than 10-3 Ohm meter (.OMEGA.m).
[0044] Optionally the adhesive patch further comprises at least one
mechanical connector for connecting (optionally in a detachable
manner) the at least one EM probe to the planar member at a
position overlapping the opening. Optionally, the adhesive patch
includes a cover positioned over the opening, the cover being
shaped and sized to receive an EM element.
[0045] Optionally, the adhesive patch comprises a battery for
providing power to an EM probe when the EM probe is attached to the
adhesive patch.
[0046] Optionally, the adhesive layer is attached over at least
part of a surface covering 70% or less (or even 50% or less) of the
patch contact surface, including or excluding surface area that is
under an opening in the layer of radiation absorbing material.
Optionally, the adhesive is attached over at least part of a
surface of the planar member covering 50% or less.
[0047] Optionally, the adhesive is attached to the bottom surface
of the adhesive patch at a pattern comprising at least one
adhesive-covered portion and at least one adhesive-free portion,
wherein the pattern is such that the adhesive patch may be attached
to a surface area at at least a first position and at a second
position such that: [0048] the portion of the surface area that is
covered by the at least one opening of the adhesive patch at the
first position overlaps the portion of the surface area covered by
the opening of the adhesive patch at the second position by at
least 30% or even by at least 90%; and [0049] the portion of the
surface area that is covered by the at least one adhesive-covered
portion of the adhesive patch at the first position overlaps the
portion of the surface area that is covered by the at least one
adhesive-covered portion of the adhesive patch at the second
position by less than 30%, or by less than 10% or even not at
all.
[0050] In some embodiments, the adhesive patch at the first
position is at a first rotational orientation and the patch at the
first position is at a second rotational orientation being
different from the first rotational orientation, for example by
180.degree. or by about 90.degree..
[0051] According to some embodiments of the invention, a set of
adhesive patches is provided, the set comprising: [0052] a first
adhesive patch having an adhesive attached over at least part of
its surface at a first pattern, the first pattern comprising at
least one adhesive-covered portion and at least one adhesive-free
portion; and [0053] a second adhesive patch having an adhesive
attached over at least part of its surface at a second pattern, the
second pattern comprising at least one adhesive-covered portion and
at least one adhesive-free portion;
[0054] wherein the first pattern and the second pattern are such
that the first adhesive patch and the second adhesive patch may be
attached in sequence to a placement area with the portion of the
placement area that is covered by the first adhesive patch
overlapping the portion of the placement area that is covered by
the second adhesive patch by at least 50% or even by at least 90%,
and the portion of the placement area that is covered by the at
least one adhesive-covered portion of the first adhesive patch
overlaps the portion of the placement area that is covered by the
at least one adhesive-covered portion of the second adhesive patch
by less than 30%, or not at all.
[0055] According to some embodiments, an adhesive patch is provided
for attaching at least one EM probe to a subject's body, the
adhesive patch comprising: [0056] a planar member having at least
one layer of an adhesive attached over at least part of a bottom
surface of the planar member; [0057] at least one mechanical
connector for connecting the at least one EM probe to the adhesive
patch; and [0058] a battery for providing power to an EM probe when
the EM probe is attached to the adhesive patch.
[0059] Optionally, the at least one of the at least one mechanical
connector is configured for detachably connecting the EM probe to
the adhesive patch.
[0060] Optionally, the adhesive patch may be configured for
attaching a plurality of EM probes. For example, the adhesive patch
may comprise a plurality of mechanical connectors for connecting a
plurality of EM probes thereto. Optionally, the adhesive patch may
comprise a plurality of batteries for providing power to one or
more EM probes when they are attached to the adhesive patch.
[0061] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and/or scientific
terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by
one of ordinary skill in the art to which the invention pertains.
Although methods and materials similar or equivalent to those
described herein can be used in the practice or testing of
embodiments of the invention, exemplary methods and/or materials
are described below. In case of conflict, the patent specification,
including definitions, will control. In addition, the materials,
methods, and examples are illustrative only and are not intended to
be necessarily limiting.
[0062] Implementation of the method and/or system of embodiments of
the invention can involve performing or completing selected tasks
manually, automatically, or a combination thereof. Moreover,
according to actual instrumentation and equipment of embodiments of
the method and/or system of the invention, several selected tasks
could be implemented by hardware, by software or by firmware or by
a combination thereof using an operating system.
[0063] For example, hardware for performing selected tasks
according to embodiments of the invention could be implemented as a
chip or a circuit. As software, selected tasks according to
embodiments of the invention could be implemented as a plurality of
software instructions being executed by a computer using any
suitable operating system. In an exemplary embodiment of the
invention, one or more tasks according to exemplary embodiments of
method and/or system as described herein are performed by a data
processor, such as a computing platform for executing a plurality
of instructions. Optionally, the data processor includes a volatile
memory for storing instructions and/or data and/or a non-volatile
storage, for example, a magnetic hard-disk and/or removable media,
for storing instructions and/or data. Optionally, a network
connection is provided as well. A display and/or a user input
device such as a keyboard or mouse are optionally provided as
well.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0064] Some embodiments of the invention are herein described, by
way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings.
With specific reference now to the drawings in detail, it is
stressed that the particulars shown are by way of example and for
purposes of illustrative discussion of embodiments of the
invention. In this regard, the description taken with the drawings
makes apparent to those skilled in the art how embodiments of the
invention may be practiced. The patent or application file contains
at least one drawing executed in color.
[0065] In the drawings:
[0066] FIG. 1 is a schematic sectional illustration of an
electromagnetic (EM) radiation EM probe for monitoring at least one
biological tissue, according to some embodiments of the present
invention;
[0067] FIG. 2 is a schematic sectional illustration of an EM probe
for monitoring at least one biological tissue having a
circumferential flange, according to some embodiments of the
present invention;
[0068] FIG. 3A is a schematic sectional illustration of an EM probe
for monitoring at least one biological tissue having a
circumferential flange, according to some embodiments of the
present invention;
[0069] FIG. 3B is a schematic sectional illustration of an EM probe
for monitoring at least one biological tissue having a
circumferential flange, according to some embodiments of the
present invention;
[0070] FIG. 4 is a schematic sectional illustration of an EM probe
for monitoring at least one biological tissue having a zigzagged
circumferential flange, according to some embodiments of the
present invention;
[0071] FIG. 5 is a schematic sectional illustration of an EM probe
for monitoring at least one biological tissue having a cup shaped
cavity with inner walls covered by one or more layers of absorbing
materials, according to some embodiments of the present
invention;
[0072] FIG. 6 is a schematic sectional illustration of an EM probe
for monitoring at least one biological tissue having a dome shaped
cavity, according to some embodiments of the present invention;
[0073] FIGS. 7A and 7B are schematic illustrations of an EM probe
having an EM element placed outside of the interior volume of a cup
shaped cavity, according to some embodiments of the present
invention;
[0074] FIG. 8 is a schematic sectional illustration of a wearable
device having an EM probe for monitoring at least one biological
tissue, according to some embodiments of the present invention;
[0075] FIG. 9 is a sectional schematic illustration of a system for
monitoring a biological tissue(s) by an analysis of passing through
signals, according to some embodiments of the present
invention;
[0076] FIG. 10A and FIG. 10B which are a sectional schematic
illustration and a three dimensional illustration of a printed
circuit board (PCB) EM probe having a fabricated cup shaped cavity,
according to some embodiments of the present invention;
[0077] FIGS. 11A, 11B and 11C are images of surface current density
in an EM probe without a layer of absorbing material, in an EM
probe with a layer of absorbing material, and in an EM probe with a
layer of absorbing material covering the bottom side only of a
circumferential flange, according to some embodiments of the
present invention;
[0078] FIGS. 12A and 12B and 12C are images of H-field distribution
in an EM probe without a layer of absorbing material, in an EM
probe with a layer of absorbing material, and in an EM probe with a
layer of absorbing material covering the bottom side only of a
circumferential flange, according to some embodiments of the
present invention; and
[0079] FIGS. 13A and 13B and 13C are images of E-field distribution
in an EM probe without a layer of absorbing material, in an EM
probe with a layer of absorbing material, and in an EM probe with a
layer of absorbing material covering the bottom side only of a
circumferential flange, according to some embodiments of the
present invention.
[0080] FIGS. 14A-14B depict schematic perspective views of adhesive
patches for attaching at least one EM probe to a subject's body
according to some embodiments hereof. In FIG. 14A the adhesive
patch is shown with an EM probe attached thereto and in FIG. 14B
the adhesive patch is shown without an EM probe.
[0081] FIGS. 14C and 14D depict schematic lateral views of the
adhesive patches shown in FIGS. 14A and 14B, respectively.
[0082] FIGS. 15A and 15B depict schematic cross sectional views of
adhesive patches for attaching at least one EM probe to a subject's
body according to some embodiments hereof, with and without an
integral antenna cover, respectively.
[0083] FIGS. 16A to 16C show schematic cross sectional views of
adhesive patches, each having an antenna having a circumferential
flange attached thereto, according to some embodiments of the
invention.
[0084] FIGS. 17A and 17B schematically depict cross-sections
through a planar member of an adhesive patch according to some
embodiments of the invention, the cross-section showing a plurality
of layers comprised in the planar member. In FIG. 17A the planar
member comprises at least one layer of radiation absorbing material
having an opening therein. In FIG. 17B the planar member comprises
a battery.
[0085] FIGS. 18A to 18C depict a pattern of an adhesive layered on
a surface of an adhesive patch, according to some embodiments of
the invention. In FIG. 18A the pattern is shown at a first
orientation, in FIG. 18B the pattern is shown at a second
orientation and in FIG. 18C the pattern at the first orientation is
superimposed on the pattern at the second orientation.
[0086] FIGS. 19A and 19B depict two alternative patterns of an
adhesive layered on a surface of an adhesive patch, according to
some embodiments of the invention.
[0087] FIG. 19C depicts depict two alternative patterns of an
adhesive layered on a portion thereof of an adhesive patch,
according to some embodiments of the invention.
[0088] FIGS. 20A and 20B depict two alternative patterns of an
adhesive layered on a surface of an adhesive patch, according to
some embodiments of the invention.
DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION
[0089] The present invention, in some embodiments thereof, relates
to an electromagnetic EM probe and, more particularly, but not
exclusively, to an EM probe for transmission and/or reception of
electromagnetic radiation and a method of generating the EM
probe.
[0090] According to some embodiments of the present invention,
there is provided an electromagnetic (EM) probe for monitoring
dielectric properties in one or more biological tissues using a cup
shaped cavity which is coated with one or more layers of absorbent
material and has a circumferential flange. The cup shaped cavity
houses an element for radiating and/or capturing EM radiation and
has a single opening for the passage of the EM radiation. In such a
manner, the cup shaped cavity forms a closed interference reduced
volume when the opening is placed on top of or above a skin area of
a monitored user. Such an EM probe is less sensitive to changes in
the skin in an area outside the circumference of the EM probe, for
example more than 2 cm, or more than 4 cm, and/or to changes which
are introduced when the EM probe is being touched and/or changes
which are related to the mechanical interfacing and/or coupling of
the EM probe to the skin.
[0091] The circumferential flange is set to reduce the sensitivity
to noise from the proximity of the EM probe, for example from
external EM transmission sources, such as, for example, cellular
phones, thus improving the signal to noise ratio (SNR) and
therefore on the quality of reception. Moreover, the
circumferential flange and the absorbing layers prevent from at
least some of the EM transmissions to make their way to the
external surface of the EM probe. In such a manner, the amount of
escaped signals which add noise to the external environment may be
reduced. It may reduce currents escaping or penetrating the EM
probe to/from the external side of the EM probe or exposed body
surfaces. Such currents may be conducted on the skin, or external
conductive parts of the EM probe, like its cavity and/or conducting
elements, such as cables. Such currents may, for example, be
induced by currents related to a transmitting EM probe, or its
connected cables, onto the conductive parts, or proximate skin
area, of a receiving EM probe, via conduction or induction,
resulting in parasitic crosstalk between them. The circumferential
flange may be placed on the edge of the opening or attached to the
external walls of the cup shape cavity few millimeters above the
opening. The circumferential flange may be a bendable flange and/or
a flexible flange which is adjusted to be closely attached to the
skin surface of a monitored user. Optionally the flange is also set
to assist in prevention of entry of fluid and/or water and/or
perspiration into the area under the EM probe. Optionally, the
flange is set to enable an airtight interface of the EM probe to
the skin area, enabling attachment by air pressure differences of
the EM probe, and/or increasing the effectiveness of the isolation
functionality of the flange by improving the mechanical coupling of
the flange to the skin area. For example by use of another layer,
for example a sub millimeter layer of silicon material, covering
the bottom side of the flange. The circumferential flange may be
zigzagged, jagged, and/or curved to extend the path of signals
passing therethrough. The absorbing material may cover external
walls of the cup shaped cavity, the circumferential flange or any
portion thereof, and/or a portion of the internal walls of the cup
shaped cavity. A layer of absorbing material may be placed on the
lower side of the circumferential flange so as to be in contact
with the monitored skin area.
[0092] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the
EM probe is a printed circuit board (PCB) EM probe fabricated in
known fabrication techniques.
[0093] Before explaining at least one embodiment of the invention
in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not
necessarily limited in its application to the details of
construction and the arrangement of the components and/or methods
set forth in the following description and/or illustrated in the
drawings and/or the Examples. The invention is capable of other
embodiments or of being practiced or carried out in various
ways.
[0094] Reference is now made to FIG. 1, which is a schematic
sectional illustration of an electromagnetic (EM) radiation EM
probe 100 for monitoring at least one biological tissue, according
to some embodiments of the present invention. The EM probe 100
includes a cup shaped cavity 103 having an opening 110 and an
interior volume 102. As FIG. 1 depicts a section illustration, the
depicted broken line represents the diameter of the opening 110.
The outer surface of the cup shaped cavity 103, namely the external
sides of the cup shaped cavity 103 which do not face the interior
volume 102 are covered with one or more layers 104 of a material
for absorbing EM radiation. The one or more layers 104 are set to
absorb electric fields and/or magnetic fields.
[0095] For example regarding the complex permittivity of the
absorbing material at a frequency of about 1 GHz, .epsilon.' is
between 2 and 60 typically around 30 and .epsilon.'' is between 1
and 30 typically 5 and regarding the complex permeability of the
absorbing material, .mu.' is between 1 and 30 typically 20 and
.mu.'' is between 2 and 30 typically 6 to 15. The cup shaped cavity
103, which may be referred to as a cavity is made of a conductive
material. The absorbing material may be any material that
dissipates EM energy, for example Eccosorb.RTM. MCS, GDS and BSR,
which the specifications thereof are incorporated herein by
reference. Optionally, the thickness of the one or more layers 104
is between about 0.1 millimeters (mm) and about 10 cm.
[0096] Optionally, the height of the cup shaped cavity 103 is
between about 0.5 millimeters (mm) and about 10 cm. Optionally, the
width of the opening 110 of the cup shaped cavity 103 is between
about 0.5 millimeters (mm) and about 20 centimeters. Optionally,
the opening width is set according to the transmitted and/or
received frequency and/or the size or configuration of the EM
element(s).
[0097] Optionally, the cup shaped cavity 103 comprises a plurality
of chambers wherein in each chamber contains a different EM
element, such as the EM element 101. The plurality of EM elements
can also be used inside a single non-divided or partly chambered
cavity.
[0098] The one or more layers 104 are applied, for example
laminated, on the cup shaped cavity 103 and/or molded as cup sized
and shaped to engulf the cup shaped cavity 103 without blocking the
opening 110. The cup shaped cavity 103 is optionally shaped to have
a cubical outline, a cylindrical outline, a dome outline, a pyramid
outline, or a conical outline, each having an open base set for
being in direct or indirect (for example, via intermediate
substance) contact with a skin tissue of a monitored, diagnosed EM
probed, and/or monitored user. Optionally, the cup shaped cavity
103 is made of a conductive material, such as metal. Optionally and
respectively the one or more layers 104 has a respective
outline.
[0099] Optionally, the one or more layers 104 are extended to
increase the surface area of absorbing material which is found
above the space between the skin area above a monitored intrabody
target area and the EM probe 100.
[0100] The EM probe 100 further includes one or more emitting
and/or receiving elements 101 which are placed in the interior
volume 102. Optionally, the EM radiation is radio frequency (RF)
radiation and/or microwave (MW) radiation for example from a few
100 MHz's up to a few GHz. The emitting and/or receiving elements
101 are connected, by conducting element(s) 301, such as cables,
for example coaxial cables, and/or waveguides, for example metal
tubes used to carry microwave and/or RF energy with little loss of
power, to external means for generating and/or analyzing EM
signals, as further described below. The conducting element(s) 301
may be connected to the emitting and/or receiving elements 101 via
an aperture in the lateral walls of the cup shaped cavity 103
and/or an aperture in the top wall of the cup shaped cavity 103,
for example as shown in FIG. 2. As used herein, an emitting and/or
receiving element means a transducer, an antenna, for example a
bowtie antenna, an ultra-wide band (UWB) antenna, a micro strip
antenna, a slot fed antenna, a dipole antenna, a patch antenna, and
a spiral element antenna, a feedhorn and/or a tip of a waveguide
which delivers and/or collects EM radiation. For example, in FIG.
1, an antenna is connected via a coaxial cable 301 to an external
means for generating and/or analyzing EM signals (not shown).
[0101] Optionally, the interior volume 102 remains empty and
therefore filled with air when being used. Optionally, the interior
volume 102 is filled with a dielectric substance having a
relatively high dielectric coefficient, for example about 10, such
as Rogers R3010. Optionally, the dielectric substance has a
dielectric coefficient which relatively matches the dielectric
coefficient of body tissues or any matching material in-between. In
such a manner, dielectric discontinuity is reduced and the
efficiency of the transmission of the emitting element 101 and the
sensitivity of the EM receiving element 101 is increased.
Optionally, a layer of dielectric material, elastic, shape
preserving or other, or a composition of different materials, such
as a gel with or without dielectric increasing agents, for example
metal oxides or fluids, and is applied between the EM probe and the
skin area 201. Optionally separating the layer of dielectric
material and the skin is a layer of a biocompatible material.
[0102] Reference is now made to FIG. 2, which is a schematic
sectional illustration of an EM probe 100 for monitoring at least
one biological tissue, according to some embodiments of the present
invention. The EM probe 100 is similar to the one depicted in FIG.
1, however it further includes a circumferential flange 105 that is
attached to the cup shaped cavity 103, in proximity to the opening
110, for example few millimeters above the opening edge, as shown
in FIG. 2 or on the same plane of the opening edge, as depicted in
FIGS. 3A-3B.
[0103] The circumferential flange 105 is placed around the opening
110, optionally so as to be parallel to a skin area 201 in
proximity to a monitored, EM probed, and/or diagnosed tissue(s) of
a monitored user in proximity to the skin area 201 about implanted
antenna. The circumferential flange 105 is made of a conductive
material, such as metal. The circumferential flange 105, which is
optionally a non-circular or circular metal ring, surrounds the
opening and is electrically coupled, for example galvanically
connected, to the cup shaped cavity 103. Optionally, the
circumferential flange 105 is an integral part of the cup shaped
cavity 103. For example the circumferential flange 105 is a portion
of the cup shaped cavity 103 that is bended to be substantially in
parallel or in parallel to the skin area of a monitored, EM probed,
and/or diagnosed tissue(s) of a monitored user.
[0104] It should be noted that the EM probe 100 may be part of an
intrabody implant, such as a subdermal implant. In such an
embodiment, the EM probe 100 is sized and shaped to be placed
between the tissues. In such an embodiment, the opening 110 may
directly face a fat layer or a muscle layer. In such embodiments,
the aforementioned structure of the EM probe 100 reduces currents
that may develop on the tissue surface.
[0105] Optionally, the circumferential flange 105 is placed so that
in use, the lower part thereof is in touch with or in a close
proximity to the skin area 201, for example as shown at FIGS.
3A-3B, or for instance via a cloth (i.e. a shirt, pants).
Optionally, at least a portion of the circumferential flange 105 is
covered by one or more layers of absorbing materials 106 which are
in touch with or in a close proximity to the skin area 201.
Generally and especially in the case where the EM probe is on top
of a cloth, a construction similar to FIG. 3B can be used (at least
the area marked with 95 is filled with air only). In this case,
pressure is applied to the EM probe 100, for example by use of a
chest strap, pushing it towards the body. The pressure applied on
the depicted construction concentrates on the circumferential
flange 105 and serves to improve mechanical coupling of the
circumferential flange 105 to the skin area or, in the case of
clothing reduce the gap, created by the layer of clothing.
[0106] Optionally, the portion is the edge of the circumferential
flange 105, namely the area which is extended away from the cup
shaped cavity 103. Optionally, the circumferential flange 105 is
placed so that in use, the lower part of the one or more layers of
absorbing materials 106 is in touch with or in a close proximity to
the skin area 201. In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 2, the inner
wire of the connected cable 301 is used for carrying signals
intended to and/or received from the emitting and/or receiving
elements 101, for brevity referred to herein as an EM element 101.
Optionally, the EM element 101 is driven by a coaxial cable 301
whose inner wire and shield are connected to the EM element 101.
Optionally, only the inner conductor is connected to the EM element
101. Optionally, the shield is connected and/or coupled to the cup
shaped cavity 103.
[0107] The circumferential flange 105 conducts EM radiation
originating from the cup shaped cavity 103 and/or from the interior
volume 102 and/or from the skin area 201, facilitating its
absorption in the layers of absorbing materials 106. Optionally,
the circumferential flange 105 is continuous and annular.
Optionally, the circumferential flange 105 comprises a plurality of
separate elements which form a non-continuous and annular structure
around the opening 110. Optionally, the circumferential flange 105
is continuous and planar.
[0108] The circumferential flange 105 increases isolation of the
interior volume 102 from interference signals from areas and/or
layers that are in the periphery of the EM probe and are
superficial, for example the skin layer or fat layer, rather than
from internal body tissues and/or organs that are of interest and
are substantially in a region that is in front of the opening 110.
The circumferential flange 105 effectually guides interference
signals, such as close proximity parasitic EM radiation and/or
currents traveling on the skin area 201, along the absorbing
material 106 so as to dissipate them. In such a manner interfering
effects may be reduced or eliminated. The interference signals are
the radiation and/or currents which may be from the EM element 101,
or from an area external to the EM probe, and travel along the body
surface, for example on the skin 201 and/or via proximate subdermal
tissues, such as fat and/or organs in close proximity to
circumferential flange 105. The isolation of the interior volume
102 from interference signals may reduce the noise caused by
parasitic signals originated from the EM transmission of the EM
element 101 and/or from external interference signals which are not
intercepted from the body of the monitored user. The isolation of
the interior volume 102 also reduces the sensitivity to environment
changes, such as hand movements or skin changes in proximity to the
EM probe 100. In such a manner, for example, the effects of
reflection signals originating from hand or other movements in the
proximity of the EM probe and/or skin contour changes may be
reduced.
[0109] Optionally, the distance between the peripheral outer edge
of the circumferential flange 105 and the peripheral inner edge
thereof is between 0.1 centimeters (cm) and 5 cm and/or a few
wavelengths, for example 0.3 cm. Optionally, the circumferential
flange 105 is placed, at least partly, inside the interior volume
102.
[0110] Optionally, the circumferential flange 105 is substantially
rigid. The larger the surface area of the circumferential flange
105, the higher is the isolation from interference signals. Since
the isolation functionality of the circumferential flange 105 and
the one or more layers of absorbing materials 106 are more
effective when attached to the skin, optionally, at least some of
the circumferential flange 105 and the absorbing material 106 which
covers it are flexible so as to increase the surface area which is
attached to the skin. Optionally, the circumferential flange 105 is
substantially flexible, for example made of fiber based structures,
flexible polymers, and/or a mesh having shape memory
characteristics. This circumferential flange 105 may be bended in
order to curve according to the surface of the skin area 201.
Optionally, part of the circumferential flange 105 is rigid and
part of flange 105 is flexible. In this case the flexible and rigid
parts may be coupled or galvanically connected, and each part is
coated with the absorbing material 106 separately or jointly.
Optionally, the rigid portion is closer to the EM element 101 than
the flexible portion, so the nearest volume to the EM element 101
is fixated and possibly pressed against the skin to decrease
possible geometrical changes, for example of the skin and fat in
proximity to the EM element. Optionally, the circumferential flange
is jagged, zigzagged, curved, and/or bended along a plane parallel
to the opening 110, for example shown in numeral 401 of FIG. 4. In
such a manner, the path signals are passing along the
circumferential flange 105 is longer so that their absorption is
increased.
[0111] Some elements of the EM probe 100 are attached to the body
of the monitored user, for example using adhesives, while others
are disconnected therefrom.
[0112] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the
circumferential flange 105 is set to enable an airtight interface
between the EM probe 100 and the skin area, enabling attachment by
air pressure differences. For example, a sub millimeter layer of
silicon material is placed to cover the bottom side of the
circumferential flange 105 and to form the airtight interface when
attached to a skin area. The airtight interface may also increase
the effectiveness of the isolation functionality of the
circumferential flange 105 by improving the mechanical coupling of
the circumferential flange 105 to the skin area. Optionally, a
pressure regulator is attached to the cup shaped cavity 103 so as
to control the air pressure in the inner volume of the cup shaped
cavity 103. In such a manner, the air pressure differences may be
controlled by the user and/or a clinician attaching the EM probe
100. In such an embodiment, the EM probe 100 is constructed to form
an air gap above the opening 110. By reducing the air pressure in
the gap, the attachment of the EM probe 100 to the skin area is
formed. For example the gap created between the horizontal plane of
the opening 110 and a plane thereabove in the cup shaped cavity
103. The lower pressure can be created by the pressure regulator,
for example one or more one way valves connected to one or more
pumps such as rubber balls. Another option is a mechanical lever
that deforms the cup shaped cavity 103 after the attachment thereof
to the skin area, substantially pulling back the dielectric
material away from the skin creating a low pressure air gap.
[0113] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the
circumferential flange 105 is a detachable element, set to be
attached to a skin area above the monitored intrabody volume of the
patient. In such an embodiment, the circumferential flange 105 may
remain attached to the skin for durations of time in between
different monitoring and/or diagnosis sessions, assisting in
placement of the EM probe in following sessions. In addition, the
ability to detach the cup shaped cavity 103 and optionally the EM
element 101 which is mounted therein, allows, for example, cleaning
the skin area between the sessions, replacing the cup shaped cavity
103 and/or the EM element 101 and/or repairing elements of the EM
probe 100 without having to reposition or attach the
circumferential flange 105.
[0114] Reference is now made to the isolation of the cable 301. In
use, the edge of cable 301, which connects to the EM element 101,
is typically close to the skin, parasitic EM radiation radiating
from the skin area 201 and/or escaping from the cup shaped cavity
103 and/or originating from other sources may induce parasitic
currents on the cable 301 that introduce noise. Optionally, a layer
of an absorbing material 302, such as the aforementioned absorbing
material, coats the cable 301 in proximity to the external surface
of the cup shaped cavity 103. Optionally, the coating is along a
portion of the cable 301, starting from the area in close proximity
to the cup shaped cavity 103. This coating prevents from parasitic
EM radiations which travel along the skin area 201 or passing
through the air in proximity to the EM probe 100 from substantially
affecting currents conducted by the cable 301 and/or substantially
interfering with reception of the signals. This coating also
prevents currents conducted on the cable from substantially
radiating back into the same or other EM probes and/or their
cables. This leakage might interfere with the operation of
receiving signals from the monitored area in the body.
[0115] In some cases, a network of EM probes, each as shown at 100,
is used for receiving and/or capturing signals from the monitored
area in the body. In such an embodiment, the sensitivity of this
network is greatly determined by the effect of crosstalk
interference between the EM probes. Such crosstalk interference
includes a reception of an EM signal that is transmitted from the
network EM probes and does not propagate through an intended path.
This EM signal might propagate on the skin, through air, or through
cables or electronics connecting the EM probes, rather than through
internal body tissues and/or organs. The crosstalk interference
might interfere with the operation of the network and may also
increase sensitivity to artifacts that are a result of body
movements and changes in the surrounding. The aforementioned
isolation isolates the EM probes from one another. Cables
connecting the different EM probes might carry some of the signals
on their outer shield and therefore should also be protected by the
absorbing material as described herein. Moreover, the cables may
operate as antennas transferring radiation and inducing currents on
proximate cables. Currents induced on the cable of a receiving EM
probe by radiation from a cable of a transmitting EM probe may
penetrate into the internal volume of the receiving EM probe and
therefore introduce noise. The crosstalk signal may be affected by
movement of the cable or any respective movements between the
cables increasing the overall noise in the system.
[0116] According to some embodiments of the present invention, some
of the inner walls of the cup shaped cavity 103 are covered by one
or more layers of absorbing materials, such as the aforementioned
absorbing materials, for example as depicted by numeral 111 in FIG.
5. Optionally, the lateral walls of the cup shaped cavity 103 are
covered with the aforementioned absorbing materials. Optionally,
the lateral walls of the cup shaped cavity 103 and the
circumferential flange 105 are covered with the aforementioned
absorbing materials so that none of them touches the skin of the
patient.
[0117] Optionally, all the inner walls of the cup shaped cavity 103
are covered with the aforementioned absorbing materials. Optionally
only the portions of the inner walls which are closer to the
opening 110 are covered with the layers of absorbing materials 111.
For example, FIG. 6 depicts a cup shaped cavity which is shaped as
a dome. The circumferential flange 105 is encircled and marked with
numeral 105. Optionally, only the inner wall of the cup shaped
cavity 103 which faces the opening 110 remains uncovered by layers
of absorbing material, for example as shown at FIG. 5.
[0118] It should be noted that layers 104, 106, 111 and 302 employ
an absorbing material in proximity to conducting parts such as the
cup shaped cavity 103, the circumferential flange 105 and/or the
connected cable 301 so that parasitic EM signals and radiation
traveling along these parts may be dissipated. In such a manner,
interference signals, which propagate in close proximity to the EM
element 101, are absorbed in one or more of the layers 104, 106,
111 and 302. The interference signals may be signals originated
from the EM element 101, signals entering the interior volume 102
from the skin area 201, and/or straying signals which do not arrive
from an intended path, i.e. parasitic signals.
[0119] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the
EM element 101 is connected, via the cable 301, to a receiver
and/or a transmitter which may be located in a different housing,
for example in a mobile or a stationary unit, or within an element
that is integrated with the EM probe, externally to the cup shaped
cavity 103.
[0120] Optionally one or more attachment elements, as defined
below, are used for attaching the EM probe 100 to the monitored
user so that the opening 110 faces the skin area 201, for example
as shown in FIGS. 1-4.
[0121] Reference is now also made to FIGS. 7A and 7B, which are
schematic illustrations of an EM probe 150 having an EM element
generating EM radiation, which is placed outside of the interior
volume of the cup shaped cavity 103, according to some embodiments
of the present invention. In such an embodiment, a conducting
element, such as a waveguide, is used for conducting EM radiation,
such as RF and/or MW waves which are generated outside of the cup
shaped cavity 103 and conducted into the interior volume thereof.
At least the lower portion of the circumferential flange around the
opening is covered with an absorbing material 155, as described
above. Optionally, also the external lower part of the cup shaped
cavity 103 is covered with the absorbing material 155.
[0122] Reference is now made to FIG. 8, which is a sectional
schematic illustration of a wearable device 500 for monitoring a
biological tissue(s), according to some embodiments of the present
invention. The wearable device 500 include a housing 499 which
contains one or more of the EM probe 100 and one or more additional
components for monitoring a monitored user, optionally ambulatory,
and optionally for detecting one or more physiological patterns
according to a dielectric property, for example as described in
International patent application pub. No WO 2010/100649,
International patent application pub. No WO 2009/031150, and/or
International patent application pub. No 2009/031149, which are
incorporated herein by reference. The dielectric property is
calculated based on the reading of the EM radiation captured by the
EM element. Optionally, a transmitter 502 is used to generate a
signal that is transmitted to the EM element 101 for transmission.
Optionally, a receiver 503 is used to receive a signal that is
received by the EM element 101. Optionally, the processing unit 504
is a microprocessor or any other computing unit used to analyze the
outputs of the receiver 503 and/or to control the transmitter 502.
The processing is optionally performed as described in
International patent application pub. No WO 2010/100649,
International patent application pub. No WO 2009/031150, and/or
International patent application pub. No 2009/031149, which are
incorporated herein by reference. Optionally, the wearable device
500 includes one or more attachment elements 505, such as straps,
coatings of adhesive. When straps are used, the wearable device 500
may be placed above a cloth (i.e. shirt, pants). Adhesive elements,
and buckle components, for attaching the wearable monitoring
apparatus 500 to the body of a monitored user with the opening 110
facing a skin area (not shown). In another embodiment of the
present invention, such attachment elements 505 may be used for
connecting only the EM probe 100 to the skin area. It should be
noted that the components described in FIG. 8 may be part of a
stationary system in which only the EM probe 100 is attached to the
body of the monitored user.
[0123] Reference is now made to FIG. 9, which is a sectional
schematic illustration of a system 500 for monitoring a biological
tissue(s) by an analysis of passing through signals 903, according
to some embodiments of the present invention. Components 502-504
are as depicted in FIG. 8, however in these embodiments at least
two EM probes 901, 902 are used. One EM probe 901 is used for
transmitting EM radiation toward a body organ or a number of body
tissues and another EM probe 902 is used for receiving the passing
through EM radiation 903. Optionally, the transmitting EM probe 901
is also set to receive reflections of the EM radiation from the
body part. Optionally, the EM probe 902 is also set to transmit EM
radiation toward the body part. Each one of the EM radiation EM
probes 901, 902 may be defined as any of the aforementioned
embodiments. In such an embodiment the intended path can be, for
example, the path passing from EM probe 902 to EM probe 901. The
isolation properties as described in the aforementioned may serve
to minimize interference to the reception of EM radiation from this
path.
[0124] Reference is now made to FIG. 10A, which is a sectional
schematic illustration of a printed circuit board (PCB) EM probe
600 having a fabricated cup shaped cavity 601 and to FIG. 10B which
is a three dimensional schematic illustration of this PCB EM probe
600, according to some embodiments of the present invention. The
PCB EM probe 600 is created by a number of layers. As shown at 602,
a layer of absorbent material, such as Eccosorb.RTM. MCS, is placed
above a layer of conductive material 603, such as a metal layer. A
stratified layer 620 below the conductive material 603 is
constructed. The stratified layer 620 includes lateral walls 604,
which are formed around a dielectric substance 608 having a
relatively high dielectric coefficient, for example about 10, such
as Rogers R3010, for example as described above. A conducting
element 606, such as a wire, is placed in the dielectric substance
608, optionally in parallel to the layer of conductive material
603, and is extended outside the PCB EM probe through the lateral
walls with no electrical connection to them. Another electrical
connection (not shown) is possibly made and extended to the outside
of the PCB EM probe, in a similar manner to the EM element 615 or
to the fabricated cup shaped cavity. This allows connecting an EM
element 615, such as an antenna thereto. In such a manner, an
internal volume is formed contained within the reflecting walls 604
and the layer of conductive material 603.
[0125] According to some embodiment of the present invention the
PCB EM probe 600 may be created by fabricating and bonding 4
layers, using fabrication techniques. For example, each layer is
fabricated from a "blank PCB" made of a bonded metal, for example
copper, and a substrate such as Rogers R3010. The metal on the
"blank PCBs" are etched away and the layers are then bonded
together. The layers in such an embodiment can be comprised of the
following layers: [0126] 1) a first layer the top of the formed cup
shaped cavity and underneath it a substrate, [0127] 2) a second
layer an additional substrate and underneath an etched antenna and
one or more conducting wires feeding it, [0128] 3) a third
layer--an additional substrate and underneath it an etched
peripheral circumferential flange, and [0129] 4) a fourth layer--a
bare substrate layer with no metal.
[0130] These 4 layers are bonded together where the first layer is
the topmost layer and fourth layer is the bottom layer. Optionally,
the lateral wall(s) 604 are made by drilling dense via holes and
filling them with a conductive material. Such dense via holes,
optionally with metal connecting among them in each horizontal
layer, may function as a metal plate for wavelengths greater than
the distance between each pair of dense via holes. When such via
holes are drilled in said substrate some dielectric material may
remain effectively outside the cup shaped cavity due to fabrication
limitations, for example 612 as in FIG. 10A. Optionally, the four
layers are sized and shaped as in FIG. 10B. Optionally, a shaped
absorbing material is bonded on the top of the created PCB EM probe
and on the bottom side of the flange. Electronic circuitry like
amplifiers, transformers, filters, receivers and transmitters, data
collector and/or communication modules may be constructed between
each pair of layers. For example, additional layers can be added on
top of the cup and use the conductive upper part of the cap as a
ground plane. This electronic circuitry can then be put inside an
additional cavity. Various embodiments and aspects of the present
invention as delineated hereinabove and as claimed in the claims
section below find experimental support in the following
examples.
[0131] In some embodiments of the present invention, an adhesive
patch having a planar member which comprises in it at least one
layer of radiation absorbing material may be used to attach an EM
probe to the skin of a monitored user.
[0132] The radiation absorbing material may comprise any of the
aforementioned absorbing materials and any combination thereof.
Additionally or alternatively an absorbing material may comprise of
or consist of one or more EM manipulating materials. As used
herein, an EM manipulating material may mean a material that
affects an EM wave and/or field propagation, for example by
absorbing and/or dissipating energy, and/or by conducting, being
resistive to, isolating, deflecting and/or attenuating EM
energy.
[0133] Examples for EM manipulating materials include EM energy
absorptive materials such as ferromagnetic materials and/or
structures, and/or conductive materials coated with one or more
layers of, for example, ferromagnetic material. In some examples
the EM manipulating materials are in the form of or embedded in a
fabric, for example a fabric comprising resistive fibers and/or
strips and/or ferromagnetic material comprising fibers and/or
conductive fibers coated and/or fibers coated with ferromagnetic
materials. The EM manipulating materials are optionally layered,
optionally set in sewed or bonded, for example by an adhesive, or
otherwise connected in patches and/or strips and/or intertwined
and/or embedded in one or more layers of the planar member.
[0134] EM manipulating material(s) may be taken to mean materials
including or consisting of one or more of EM absorptive and/or
restrictive and/or conductive materials, and/or resistive sheet
and/or fabric, and/or materials having significantly higher
permittivity and permeability than air, and/or materials having
permittivity and/or permeability with high loss, and/or a
construction of materials (or metamaterials) with different
impedance for guiding the radiation away from inside body and/or on
the periphery of the body.
[0135] In some embodiments, EM manipulating materials comprise
metamaterials. Metamaterials may be structures or a combination of
structures of metals or different materials with different
permittivity and permeability with or without components with
different inductance, reactance, and/or resistive properties
integrated into them in a certain structure so as to implement
desired impedance. It may comprise a network of resistors with
capacitors and coils.
[0136] Examples for EM manipulating materials include materials
having one or more of the following properties: [0137] Permeability
loss tangent of (tan .delta.=.mu.''/.mu.')>0.01 or >0.3 or
>0.6 for all or some of the frequencies within the range of 100
MHz-5 GHz for example for 1 GHz and/or 2 GHz. [0138] Permittivity
loss tangent of (tan .delta.=.epsilon.''/.epsilon.')>0.01 or
>0.3 or >0.6 for all or some of the frequencies within the
range of 100 MHz-5 GHz for example for 1 GHz and/or 2 GHz.
[0139] Partial conduciveness manifested by a surface resistivity
between 20 and 10,000 Ohm per square (.OMEGA./sq) and/or a
volumetric resistivity which is >10.sup.-3 Ohm meter (.OMEGA.m).
For example, resistive substrates and/or volumetric resistive
materials may be constructed from and/or comprised of resistive
wiring and/or conductive wires with or without lumped resistors,
capacitors, and/or inductance elements.
[0140] Examples for EM manipulating materials include CobalTex.TM.,
which is a near field magnetic radio frequency (RF) shielding
fabric of Less EMF Inc or Eccosorb.TM. of Emerson and Cuming
Microwave Products. Examples for surface resistive EM manipulating
materials includes Statitec.TM. of 20 ohm/sq or 1000 ohm/sq EMF
Inc. and metallic materials, for example a metal foil. Resistive EM
manipulating materials may be combined with near field magnetic RF
shielding materials.
[0141] Additional examples include materials capable of diverting,
reflecting disrupting and/or attenuating EM propagation.
[0142] Optionally, the EM manipulating materials includes materials
which absorb electric fields and/or magnetic fields. Optionally the
complex permittivity of such EM manipulating materials at a
frequency of about 1 Ghz, .epsilon.' is between 2 and 60 or around
8-30 and .epsilon.'' is between 1 and 30 or even 5-10 and regarding
the complex permeability of the EM manipulating material, .mu.' is
between 1 and 30 or about 20 and .mu.'' is between 1 and 30 or even
6 to 15. The EM manipulating material may be Eccosorb.RTM. MCS, GDS
and BSR, which the specifications thereof are incorporated herein
by reference. Optionally, the thickness of the one or more layers
and/or patches formed from of EM manipulating materials is between
about 0.1 millimeters (mm) and about 5 mm.
[0143] Attention is now drawn to FIGS. 14A-14D showing an example
of some adhesive patches according to some embodiments hereof.
FIGS. 14A and 14C, respectively, depict a schematic view and a
lateral view of an adhesive patch 140 having a planar member 141
and an EM probe 142 attached thereto. FIGS. 14B and 14D,
respectively, depict a schematic view and a lateral view of the
adhesive patch 140 of FIG. 14A, with EM probe 142 removed.
[0144] Planar member 141 is manufactured comprising at least one
layer of radiation absorbing material, and at least one layer 143
of an adhesive attached over at least part of a surface of the
planar member, for attaching the adhesive patch to the skin of a
user. This adhesive may be covered by a removable peelable liner
that is peeled off before the adhesive patch 140 is to be attached
to the skin of a user. At least one opening 1410 is formed within
the at least one layer of radiation absorbing material to allow the
propagation of EM radiation via the opening 1410 from one side of
the planar member 141 to the other. In some embodiments, the at
least one opening measures at least 1 cm in any direction parallel
to the planar surface of the adhesive patch, and the adhesive patch
extends by at least 1 cm around the opening in all directions
parallel to the planar surface, for at least 75% of the
circumference of the opening. In some embodiments at least one
opening 1410 has such dimensions and/or shape and/or filling
material that allow propagation of EM radiation via the opening
from one side of the planar member to the other, where the EM
energy is in the range of 300 MHz to 30 GHz or EM energy in the
range between 400 MHz and 5 GHz or is within a range that its
absorbed efficiently by the absorbing material in the adhesive
patch. Optionally, opening 1410 has such dimensions and/or filling
materials to allow EM propagation such that when an EM probe is
attached to a human body (or a simulation of a human body) and
transmits EM energy (in the range of 300 MHz to 30 GHz or EM energy
in the range between 400 MHz and 5 GHz or is within a range that
its absorbed efficiently by the absorbing material in the adhesive
patch) to the body, and the energy is measured at a point 5 cm
below the skin, the amount of energy that is measured when the
probe is attached to the body via an adhesive patch according to
some embodiments of the invention is at least 1% of the amount
measured if the same transmission is performed without an adhesive
patch. Optionally the opening area will have filling materials
which have low EM absorption in the relevant frequencies, which
filling materials may be or comprise medical adhesives, plastic
and/or silicon materials. Optionally the opening has a shape and
size that is about the same as the circumference of a flange to
which the adhesive patch is to be attached or about the same as the
inner circumference of the bottom of the opening of the EM probe or
any size or shape therebetween.
[0145] As shown in FIGS. 14A and 14C, at least one EM probe 142 may
be attached to planar member 141 above the at least one opening
1410, position to transmit and/or receive radiation via the
opening. The opening 1410 may traverse planar member 141, including
all its layers or it may traverse some of the layers, or even just
the layer of radiation absorbing material. In some embodiments,
opening 1410 is filled with, and/or positioned above or below,
material that is EM radiation transparent. Such transparent
material may be essentially limited to the region of opening 1410
or it may extend to other regions of adhesive patch 140. As used
herein, a material is EM radiation transparent if it attenuates EM
energy (e.g. in the range of 300 MHz to 30 GHz or between 400 MHz
and 5 GHz) by not more than 20 dB. This may be measured, for
example, within a human like body at 5 cm below the surface.
Optionally the EM transparent material may be selected to match
between the EM probe and the dielectrics of a user's body. For
example, such matching material may have a dielectric coefficient
above 3, for example between 3 and 20 (e.g. silicone or a silicone
based material). The matching material may also be selected to be
sufficiently elastic or pliable to conform to the contour of a
user's body and fill the gap between EM probe 142 and the skin of a
user.
[0146] In some embodiments, a plurality of openings 1410 may be
formed in an adhesive patch 1410. A single EM probe 142 may be
positioned to transmit and/or receive radiation via a plurality of
openings 1410 and/or a plurality of EM probes 142 may be attached
to a single planar member 141, for example, each above an opening
1410.
[0147] In addition, adhesive patch 140 comprises at least one
mechanical connector 144 for connecting the at least one EM probe
142 to planar member 141 at a position at least partially
overlapping the opening 1410. The connector(s) 144 may connect
directly to connectors or matching structures on EM probe 142 or
indirectly, for example via a housing to which EM probe 142 is
attached. The arrangement and number of connector(s) 144 may be
selected according to the number and/or arrangement of EM probe(s)
142 and opening(s) 1410 of the adhesive patch 140. The connector(s)
144 may be configured to ensure electrical connection between EM
probe(s) 142 and any electrical connectors that might be included
in adhesive patch 140 (e.g. for a battery 147 as detailed
hereinafter).
[0148] The connector(s) 144 may be constructed in any manner known
in the art for mechanically connecting to a matching structure or
connector on the EM probe and/or on a housing or cover connected to
the EM probe. The connectors may allow locking the EM probe in
position so that it may not detach unintentionally from the
adhesive patch. The connectors may snap and/or latch and/or bond
(e.g. when a connector is or comprises an adhesive) and/or
interlock and/or lock one to the other, for example pressing
connectors and/or snapping and/or twisting them one with respect to
the other, etc. One or more of the matching connectors be formed of
and/or may have in them additional grooves and/or indentations
and/or protrusions for securing the EM probe(s) and adhesive patch
in a locked position. Optionally, the connectors allow positioning
the EM probe 142 at a one or a plurality of selected orientations
or positions overlapping opening 1410.
[0149] In the example shown, planar member 141 is bendable and/or a
flexible, to the extent that it may conform to the skin surface of
a monitored user and to a user's body contour at that area.
Optionally, planar member has an essentially planar surface only at
the bottom thereof for contacting the skin. Optionally, the planar
surface of planar member 141 includes grooves and/or is zigzagged,
jagged, and/or curved to extend the path of signals passing
therethrough.
[0150] In some embodiments a rigid member 145, the outline of which
is shown in FIGS. 14A and 14B, may be included in planar member 141
(or attached thereto) and connected, directly or indirectly, to
connector(s) 144. Rigid member 145 may serve to impart rigidity at
the site where the EM probe 142 is attached to the planar member
141. Optionally, rigid member 145 is, at least partially, an
integral part of connector(s) 144. Optionally, rigid member 145
serves as a mechanical connector or part thereof by virtue of
providing support to the attachment of an EM probe 142 to adhesive
patch 140 by an adhesive.
[0151] Optionally, rigid member is a closed shape as the ring
formation as shown or unclosed (e.g. U shape) or even segmented
shape or a combination thereof. Rigid member 145 is not limited to
the round shape as shown and may have any other shape (e.g.
elliptical, square, rhomboid, one or more arcs, etc.). Optionally,
connector(s) 144 and/or rigid member 145 are made of or comprise a
conductive material coated with an absorbing material. Optionally
may comprise or consist of a plastic (e.g. PVC, polycarbonate,
etc.). Optionally, connector(s) 144 and/or rigid member 145 may be
sized and shaped so as to form an extension of the flange of the EM
probe. Examples for such materials include metal sheets coated with
a ferromagnetic absorber and plastics with/without layers of
absorbing, resistive and/or conductive materials or fabrics.
[0152] Optionally, connectors 144 (alone and/or together with rigid
member 145) are configured to attach EM probe 142 to planar member
141 in such manner so as to materially reduce or even prevent
emission of EM radiation via the interface when the EM probe 142
and planar member 141 are attached to the skin of a user.
[0153] Optionally, adhesive patch 140 comprises a battery 147 for
providing energy to EM probe 142, when in use. EM probe 142 may be
connected, additionally or alternatively, to at least one wire 148
to receive power and/or for communication purposes, for example
with one or more controllers and/or a processors and/display units.
This wire may, in some embodiments, be provided as part of adhesive
patch 140 or otherwise be connected thereto or be provided together
with EM probe 142. In some embodiments, wire 148 may be integrated
into adhesive patch 140 or attached thereto above the planar member
141, below adhesive layer 143 or in between the adhesive patch
layers.
[0154] In some embodiments, adhesive patch 140 comprises
perforation 146 through one or more, or all layers thereof, to
allow a degree of ventilation for the skin under the adhesive
patch, when in use.
[0155] In some embodiments, the adhesive patch is a disposable
unit. In use, an EM probe 142 is removably attached to the adhesive
patch 141 via connector(s) 144. After use, adhesive patch 140 may
be discarded, while EM probe 142 may be reused with another
adhesive patch for the same or another user.
[0156] In some embodiments, the adhesive patch is configured for
multiple uses, meaning that one or more EM probes may be attached
to the adhesive patch and detached therefrom in sequence,
optionally while the adhesive patch remains attached to the skin of
a user. In some embodiments this may be performed by virtue of
connectors that can be connected and detached a plurality of times.
In some embodiments this may comprise use of a plurality of single
use connectors (e.g. patches of adhesive) that are used in sequence
(e.g. for every use another layer of adhesive is exposed).
[0157] Optionally, the adhesive patch and/or a battery associated
with the adhesive patch and/or the EM probe and/or a system
component associated with the EM probe may include an adhesive
patch authorization and activation module which is configured for
identifying and authenticating an adhesive patch before an EM probe
attached to the adhesive patch is allowed to be activated and/or
enabled for activation and/or a warning is issued (for example to a
user) in case of recognition of a lack of authorization.
Authentication can be based for example on unique information
stored in association with the adhesive patch. Authentication may
serve for example to ensure that the size and/or shape of an
adhesive patch and/or it's specific composition are compatible with
an intended use or location (e.g. based on shape and/or size of the
site to which an adhesive patch is to be attached) or a specific
user (e.g. skin sensitivity) or a match between a battery and the
EM probe which it should power, and/or to ensure a match between
the radiation absorbing material and the radiation to be emitted by
an EM probe Authentication information may be valid for a limited
duration and/or number of activations. Such a module reduces fraud
where a non-original adhesive patches that may be used within the
system.
[0158] Attention is now drawn to FIGS. 15A and 15B, depicting
lateral cross sections through an adhesive patch, essentially along
a line at the position of line A-A shown in FIGS. 14A and 14B. If
FIG. 15A adhesive patch 1510 is shown. Adhesive Patch 1510 is shown
having a schematic mechanical connector 1514 for holding an EM
probe (not shown) under cover 1534. Cover 1534 may comprise one or
more connectors in addition to or instead of connector 1514. In
some embodiments of this example, an EM probe may snap into
location by being inserted from below the adhesive patch and
clicking into contact with cover 1534.
[0159] Also visible is an optional battery 1517, having an
electrical connector 1524 (e.g. pads) for electrically connecting
battery 124 to an EM probe, once in position under cover 1534. Such
connection may be configured to ensure a water tight interface
between the electrical components in the probe and those that are
on the patch (for example by associating rubber or silicone or
another water sealing material with the EM probe and/or the
adhesive patch). The electrical connector may comprise wires that
are attached to or interwoven in planar member 1510 (e.g. in one or
more of the layers and/or in-between layers) and are positioned to
connect battery 1517 to an EM probe, when in position. In some
embodiments, battery 1517 is a planar battery and is optionally
interwoven in planar member 1510. In some embodiments, battery 1517
may be positioned in or attached to or otherwise integrated with
cover 1534.
[0160] In this cross section planar member 1510 is shown to
comprise a layer of radiation absorbing material 1501, an adhesive
layer 1513 (in black) and a removable peelable liner 1519 under the
adhesive. In this cross section, opening 1502 is shown to traverse
all shown layers.
[0161] Alternatively, one or more layers other than radiation
absorbing layer 1501 may extend under opening 1502, for example as
shown in FIG. 15B. In this example, opening is flanked or
surrounded by one or more mechanical connector(s) 1514. Adhesive
layer 1513 covers, at least a part of the bottom surface of
adhesive patch 1500, including at least a portion of the adhesive
patch surface that is located under opening 1502. In some
embodiments, and additional adhesive layer 1523 may be provided
under or within or above opening 1502 to allow attaching an EM
probe to a top surface of the planar member 1510 of adhesive patch
1500 at the region of opening 1502. In the shown example a
removable peelable liner 1529 is positioned above adhesive layer
1523 and is to be removed to expose the adhesive for use.
[0162] An adhesive patch according to some embodiments of the
invention may provide an extension for a layer of radiation
absorbing material covering the bottom side of circumferential
flange of an EM probe. Some examples for the respective positioning
of an EM probe having a flange and the radiation absorbing layer
(or the entire planar member) of an adhesive patch according to
some embodiments of the invention are depicted schematically in
FIGS. 16A-16C. In FIGS. 16A-16C, EM probe 162 is shown attached to
adhesive patch 160 atop the skin 1610 of a user. In cross section,
EM probe 162 is depicted solely as a cup shape having a
circumferential flange, positioned adjacent opening 1602. In some
embodiments, EM probe is an EM probe as described above. As seen if
the figures, planar member 161 may be essentially at the same level
as flange 1621 For example--flange 1621 may touch the edge of
opening 1602 or a gap may be bridged by a connector. Alternatively,
flange 1621 may be positioned atop planar member 161 (FIG. 16B) or
under planar member 161 (FIG. 16C). In FIG. 16B, flange 162 may be
attached to the surface of planar member 161 (directly or
indirectly) via one or more connectors and/or by an adhesive
included in the adhesive patch 160 (as a top layer, possible below
a removable layer) and/or on the bottom surface of the flange 1621.
Additionally or alternatively, a cover (for example cover 164, as
shown in FIG. 16C) may be included in adhesive patch 160 to cover
and/or facilitate the attachment and/or positioning of the EM probe
162 to the adhesive patch 160.
[0163] Attention is now drawn to FIG. 17A, depicting a schematic
vertical cross-section through a planar member 700 of an adhesive
patch according to some embodiments of the invention, positioned
over the skin 709 of a user. This cross-section shows a plurality
of layers that are attached and/or fused and/or bounded together,
for example by use of an adhesive or by sewing or otherwise.
[0164] In this example, planar member 700 comprises a radiation
absorbing layer 701 comprising radiation absorbing material, within
which an opening 702 is depicted. As detailed above, opening 702
may be empty or may comprise material that would not prevent the
propagation of EM energy from one side of the planar member 700 to
the other (for example, between the user's body and an EM probe
attached to the adhesive patch; for example an attenuation of 20 dB
or less).
[0165] Planar member 700 also comprises at least one adhesive layer
703, for attaching the adhesive patch to a user (e.g. directly to a
user's skin). This layer may be continuous or discontinuous and may
cover the entire surface on which it is applied or a portion
thereof and/or be applied to form a pattern on the surface of
planar member 700. In the example shown in FIG. 17A, the layer of
adhesive layer 703 covers a portion of the bottom surface of planar
member 700. In between areas having adhesive layer 703 are
adhesive-free portions 705, which may be left empty or comprise a
skin soothing material. Adhesive layer 703 may consist of or
comprise an adhesive approved for medical or surgical purposes, for
example an adhesive made of or comprising acrylate.
[0166] Below adhesive layer 703 or at least below the
adhesive-covered portions thereof, may be a peelable liner 704.
This layer may be selected to protect adhesive layer 703 form
unintentionally sticking to materials before use. Any type of
peelable liner that is compatible with the adhesive may be used,
for example as known in the art for adhesive medical tape or
bandages. For example, ploy-coated Kraft paper, or bleached Kraft
paper, optionally silicone coated.
[0167] Planar member 700 may further comprise, above and/or below
adhesive layer 703, one or more fabric layers 706 and 707
comprising or consisting of any type of woven fabric or non-woven
fabric, plastic, or latex rubber, for example as materials known in
the art for use in the manufacture of adhesive medical tape or
bandages. These layers may span the entire surface or planar member
700 (as depicted schematically in fabric layer 707) or one or more
parts thereof (as depicted schematically in fabric layer 706,
having a gap 708 under opening 702).
[0168] In some embodiments, a commercially available adhesive tape
may be used, to provide a fabric layer 706, adhesive layer 703 and
liner 704. For example, 3M.TM. Medical Nonwoven Tape (Catalogue No.
1776) or 3M.TM. Nonwoven Elastic Medical Tape (Catalogue No. 9907
W) (both from 3M Medical Specialties, USA). To this material at
least one radiation absorbing layer 701 may be attached, for
example by use of an adhesive or by sewing.
[0169] Finally, additional layers and/or material (not shown) may
be included in a planar member 700 and/or attached thereto.
Non-limiting examples include electrical wiring and/or a battery
and/or battery components and/or electrical and/or mechanical
connectors that may be attached directly or indirectly to planar
member 700 (for example such as shown for wire 148 in FIG. 1)
and/or embedded in one or more layers and/or between two or more
layers of the planar member 700. In some embodiments, planar member
700 may comprise an adhesive coated portion or layer and a
removable liner also at its top surface (being remote from the
skin), positioned to serve as a connector for attaching one or more
additional components (e.g. an EM probe and/or a connector or
and/or a cover and/or a battery) to planar member 700.
[0170] In some embodiments, planar member 700 or one or more layers
thereof, further comprises components that may impart rigidity to
at least part of the planar member. In some embodiments planar
member 700 is constructed such that it is more rigid and/or less
flexible in regions that are closer to opening 702 than it is in
regions that are closer to the periphery of the planar member
700.
[0171] Attention is now drawn to FIG. 17B, depicting a schematic
vertical cross-section through a planar member 710 of an adhesive
patch according to some embodiments of the invention, positioned
over the skin 719 of a user. This cross-section shows a plurality
of layers that are attached and/or fused and/or bonded together,
for example by use of an adhesive or by sewing or otherwise.
[0172] As shown, planar member 710 is optionally attached to a
battery 720 (shown schematically). Optionally, planar member 710 is
attached to one or more mechanical connectors 721 and 722 for
attaching an EM probe (not shown) to the planar member 710. Battery
720 comprises an electrical connector allowing it to connect to an
EM probe and provide power thereto.
[0173] Optionally, planar member 710 also comprises a radiation
absorbing layer having an opening as described above in the context
of FIG. 17A.
[0174] Planar member 710 also comprises at least one adhesive layer
713, for attaching the adhesive patch to a user (e.g. directly to a
user's skin). This layer may be continuous as shown or
discontinuous (as shown in FIG. 17A) and may cover the entire
surface on which it is applied or a portion thereof and/or be
applied to form a pattern on the surface of planar member 710.
Adhesive layer 713 may consist of or comprise an adhesive approved
for medical or surgical purposes, for example an adhesive made of
or comprising acrylate.
[0175] Below adhesive layer 713 or at least below the
adhesive-covered portions thereof, may be a peelable liner 714.
This layer may be selected to protect adhesive layer 713 form
unintentionally sticking to materials before use. Any type of
peelable liner that is compatible with the adhesive may be used,
for example as known in the art for adhesive medical tape or
bandages. For example, ploy-coated Kraft paper, or bleached Kraft
paper, optionally silicone coated.
[0176] Planar member 710 may further comprise, above and/or below
adhesive layer 713, one or more fabric layers 717 comprising or
consisting of any type of woven fabric or non-woven fabric,
plastic, or latex rubber, for example as materials known in the art
for use in the manufacture of adhesive medical tape or bandages.
These layers may span the entire surface or planar member 710 (as
depicted) or one or more parts thereof.
[0177] In some embodiments, a commercially available adhesive tape
may be used, to provide a fabric layer 717, adhesive layer 713 and
liner 714. For example, 3M.TM. Medical Nonwoven Tape (Catalogue No.
1776) or 3M.TM. Nonwoven Elastic Medical Tape (Catalogue No. 9907
W) (both from 3M Medical Specialties, USA). To this material at
least one radiation absorbing layer 701 may be attached, for
example by use of an adhesive or by sewing.
[0178] Finally, additional layers and/or material (not shown) may
be included in a planar member 710 and/or attached thereto.
Non-limiting examples include electrical wiring and/or one or more
additional batteries and/or battery components and/or electrical
and/or mechanical connectors that may be attached directly or
indirectly to planar member 710 (for example such as shown for wire
148 in FIG. 1) and/or embedded in one or more layers and/or between
two or more layers of the planar member 710. In some embodiments,
planar member 710 may comprise an adhesive coated portion or layer
and a removable liner also at its top surface (being remote from
the skin), positioned to serve as a connector for attaching one or
more additional components (e.g. an EM probe and/or a connector or
and/or a cover and/or a battery) to planar member 710. Additional
layers may be applied also above battery 720, as long as the
electrical connector is accessible for attachment to an EM probe
when attached to the planar member 710.
[0179] In some embodiments, planar member 710 or one or more layers
thereof, further comprises components that may impart rigidity to
at least part of the planar member. In some embodiments planar
member 710 is constructed such that it is more rigid and/or less
flexible in regions that are closer to connector(s) 721 and/or 722
than it is in regions that are closer, for example to a periphery
of the planar member 710.
[0180] In some embodiments, an adhesive patch is configured to be
attached to a user's body for a period of time exceeding 24 hours,
or even exceeding a week or two weeks or three weeks or four weeks
or 30 days or more. To that end, materials used to construct planar
member 700, 710 may be selected to be bio compatible and/or to
allow perspiration to be emitted via the planar member, for example
as is known in the art for the manufacture of adhesive medical tape
or bandages. In some embodiments, one or more layers are
perforated. In some embodiments adhesive layer 703, 713 is selected
and/or the planar member comprises a coating and/or moisture
protecting layer (not shown) so that the adhesive patch will remain
attached to a skin of a user despite wetting of its outer surface
(e.g. when taking a shower).
[0181] In some cases it may be useful to have adhesive patches that
would allow the consecutive attachment of one or more EM probes in
sequence at the same location on the skin of a user. In this
context, two EM probes may be considered to be attached at the same
location, at any instance where there is at least some overlap
between the contact areas of the two (or more) adhesive patches'
bottoms and the skin on the user. In some cases, the degree of
overlap is such that will allow an EM probe attached to one probe
to transmit and/or sense EM radiation passing through or reflected
by the same skin or intra-body region. In some embodiments, this
overlap includes an overlap of at least a portion of the openings
in the radiation absorbing material layers of the two (or more)
adhesive patches. In some embodiments, for example where the
adhesive patch does not include an opening (for example if the
planar member does not comprise radiation absorbing material), the
overlap includes at least a portion of the planar member that is to
be positioned under the EM probe, when attached to the planar
member.
[0182] Attachment of an adhesive patch at the same or a similar
location as a previous probe may be performed in many different
ways. For example, the location may be measured with respect to the
user's body (e.g. a given distance and angle from a prominent body
feature, such as, for example a central axis along the spine or
sternum of the user, and/or the tip of the upper end of the
manubrium of the user). This can be performed for example using a
measuring aide (e.g. a flexible or rigid ruler or measuring tape).
Optionally, the measuring aide is attachable to the patch or
associated therewith or even marked upon the patch or any portion
thereof.
[0183] Optionally, placement is performed based on a marking on the
user (e.g. on the user's skin or on a garment worn by the user).
The marking may be permanent (e.g. a tattoo) or washable (e.g.
biodegradable ink). The marking may be applied by the user or a
practitioner or may be a result of the placement of the previous
patch. For example, the patch may comprise one or more ink stains
that would leave a mark on the user's skin when the patch is
removed. A second patch may then be alighted at the same location,
with a desired degree of overlap, in accordance with the markings
left by one or more previous patches. Optionally, the patch is
placed atop a marked or dedicated region or opening of a garment
worn by the user.
[0184] In some embodiments, the adhesive layered at the bottom
surface of an adhesive patch may be any adhesive known in the art
for attachment of an adhesive patch to the skin of a user. It may
be a biocompatible substance and have sufficient adhesion to skin
to allow attachment of the patch and EM probe without dislocation
for a period of use, but at the same time, be sufficiently loose to
allow painless (or low pain) removal of the adhesive patch after
use.
[0185] In some uses, a first adhesive patch may be attached to a
user's skin for attaching an EM probe at the site of attachment,
for sensing EM properties of a given body location. At a later
time, the first adhesive patch is removed and a second adhesive
patch is attached at essentially the same skin area for attaching
the same (or a different) EM probe to continue sensing EM
properties of the same body location.
[0186] In some embodiments, the at least one layer of an adhesive
that is attached over at least part of a surface of the planar
member is applied to form a pattern comprising at least one
adhesive covered portion and at least one adhesive-free portion.
The pattern in some embodiments is such that will allow the
sequential attachment of a plurality of adhesive patches at
overlapping positions with less than 100% overlap between the
adhesive-covered portions of the respective patterns at the
respective positions.
[0187] According to some embodiments, adhesive patches are provided
having an adhesive layer having a pattern with at least one
adhesive covered portion covering 70% or less of the patch contact
surface. As used herein, the patch contact surface is the patch
bottom surface, namely the surface of the planar member that is to
be facing a user's skin or in contact therewith when in use. In
some embodiments, the patch contact surface is a portion of the
bottom surface that comes to contact with a user's skin when in
use. This contact surface may include or exclude the portion of the
patch bottom surface under an opening in the radiation absorbing
material layer. In some embodiments, the adhesive pattern comprises
at least one adhesive covered portion covering 50% or less of the
adhesive patch's contact surface. In some embodiments, the adhesive
pattern comprises at least one adhesive covered portion covering at
least 10% or at least 25% or even at least 30% or at least 40% of
the contact surface.
[0188] In cases where the at least one adhesive covered portion
forms a pattern of the adhesive layer covers only a portion of the
bottom surface of an adhesive patch, at least one other portion of
the surface may be left adhesive-free, for example to allow some
ventilation (possibly in conjunction with perforation in the
adhesive patch). In some embodiments, a skin soothing agent (for
example a therapeutic substance, lotion, cream and/or gel) may be
layered in some or all the adhesive-free portions of the adhesive
patch bottom surface.
[0189] In some embodiments, the pattern of the adhesive on the
bottom surface of an adhesive patch is such that the adhesive patch
may be placed in sequence at different positions on a surface area
with the opening in the radiation absorbing material of the
adhesive patch at the first position covering a portion of the
surface area that at least partially overlaps a portion of the
surface area that is covered by the opening in the radiation
absorbing material of the adhesive patch at the second position
(e.g. by at least 30%, at least 40% or even by at least 75% or at
least 90%), but the portion of the surface area covered by the at
least one adhesive covered portion of the adhesive patch at the
first position overlaps the portion of the surface area covered by
the at least one adhesive covered portion of the adhesive patch at
the second position by less than 30%, or even by less than 10% or
not at all.
[0190] In some embodiments, the pattern of the adhesive on the
bottom surface of an adhesive patch is such that the adhesive patch
may be placed in sequence at different positions on a surface area
with the portion of the adhesive patch of the planar member being
under an EM probe at the first position covering a portion of the
surface area that at least partially overlaps a portion of the
adhesive patch of the planar member being under the EM probe at the
second position (e.g. by at least 30%, at least 40% or even by at
least 75% or at least 90%), but the portion of the surface area
covered by the at least one adhesive covered portion of the
adhesive patch at the first position overlaps the portion of the
surface area covered by the at least one adhesive covered portion
of the adhesive patch at the second position by less than 30%, or
even by less than 10% or not at all.
[0191] In some embodiments, the first adhesive patch and the second
adhesive patch are attached to the surface area at the same
rotational orientation while in other embodiments the first
adhesive patch and the second adhesive patch are attached to the
surface area at the same rotational orientations. For example see
the relative orientations of the adhesive patches shown in FIG.
18C, which differ by 90.degree.. In some embodiments, the
orientations differ by any other degree, for
example--180.degree..
[0192] An embodiment of a rotational pattern for an adhesive layer
on the bottom of an adhesive patch is depicted schematically in
FIGS. 18A-18C. As seen in FIGS. 18A and 18B (showing the adhesive
pattern at a first orientation 171 and at a second orientation
1710, being at a 90.degree. angle with respect to the first, when
each pattern is positioned on the skin of a user) the bottom
surface of the adhesive patch has an opening 172 traversing the
patch. Alternatively, the opening 172 does not extend to all layers
of the patch. For example, opening 172 may consist of a
discontinuity in the adhesive that may be situated at least under a
portion of an EM probe when attached to the patch. Some portions of
the bottom surface are covered with an adhesive (adhesive-covered
portion 173) and some are not (adhesive-free portion 171). Some or
all of adhesive-free portions 174 may be left empty and/or include
a layer of another substance as mentioned above. FIG. 18C shows a
pattern of a first orientation (FIG. 18A) superimposed on that of a
second orientation (FIG. 18B). In use, this such an adhesive patch
may be used to position opening 172 (and an EM probe associated
therewith) at a given location on a user's skin, at first at a
first and later, after removal, at a second orientation rotated by
90.degree. at different times.
[0193] In some embodiments of the invention the connectors are
configured such that they allow the attachment of the EM probe in a
plurality or orientations. In some embodiments, this allows
attaching a plurality of adhesive patches to a surface at a
plurality of orientations one relative to the other (e.g. in
sequence) while the EM probe(s) attached to each of the adhesive
patches may all have the same orientation.
[0194] In the presented overlay of FIG. 18C, while the openings at
both orientations are overlapping at about 100% of their surfaces,
the adhesive-covered portions 173 of the adhesive patch at the
first orientation 171 do not overlap the adhesive-covered portions
173 of the adhesive patch at the second orientation 1710. In
regions 1703 adhesive-covered portion 173 of one orientation do not
overlap any portions of the other orientation, regardless whether
they are adhesive-covered or adhesive-free. In regions 1704, 1720
and 1721 the bottom surfaces overlap, but no two overlapping
surfaces are covered with an adhesive. In regions 1704 both
patterns have adhesive free portions, while in regions 1720 there
is an adhesive-covered portion only in orientation 171 and in
regions 1721 there is an adhesive-covered portion only in
orientation 1710.
[0195] In some embodiments, the adhesive pattern(s) are such that
may be overlaid at an offset (with or without rotation), for
example with only 75%-99% overlap between the areas covered by two
or more adhesive patches (due at least partially to the offset),
but the patterns do not overlap by more than 10% or not by more
than 20% of the adhesive-covered portions. For example--an adhesive
pattern may comprise a plurality of dots or narrow longitudinal
and/or vertical lines (e.g. 3 mm wide or less or even 1 mm wide or
less) covering a total of less than 40% or even less than 30% of
the total bottom surface of the patch, and having adhesive free
gaps between the lines and/or dots being at least 150% wider than
the width of the respective adhesive covered dots and/or lines.
[0196] In some embodiments a set of adhesive patches is provided
comprising adhesive patches having different patterns of adhesive
on the their respective bottom surfaces, each pattern comprising at
least one adhesive-free portion and at least one adhesive-covered
portion. The patterns in some embodiments are selected such a
plurality of adhesive patches may be attached in sequence to the
same placement area such that a first adhesive patch may be placed
with the opening in its radiation absorbing material layer covering
a portion of the placement area which at least partially overlaps
the portion of the placement area that is covered by the opening in
the radiation absorbing material layer of a second adhesive patch
(e.g. by at least 30%-40% or even by at least 75%), but the portion
of the placement surface that is covered by the at least one
adhesive-covered portion of the first adhesive patch overlaps the
portion of the placement surface that is covered by the at least
one adhesive-covered portion of the second adhesive patch by less
than 30% (of the adhesive covered area), or even by less than 10%
or not at all. To this end, and subject to the patterns of
adhesive, the adhesive patches may be positioned at the same
orientation or at different orientations one with respect to the
other.
[0197] In some embodiments a set of adhesive patches is provided
comprising adhesive patches having different patterns of adhesive
on the their respective bottom surfaces, each pattern comprising at
least one adhesive-free portion and at least one adhesive-covered
portion. The patterns in some embodiments are selected such a
plurality of adhesive patches may be attached in sequence to the
same placement area such that a first adhesive patch may be placed
with the portion of the adhesive patch of the planar member being
under an EM probe covering a portion of the placement area which at
least partially overlaps the portion of the placement area that is
covered by a portion of the adhesive patch of the planar member
being under an EM probe of a second adhesive patch (e.g. by at
least 30%-40% or even by at least 75%), but the portion of the
placement surface that is covered by the at least one
adhesive-covered portion of the first adhesive patch overlaps the
portion of the placement surface that is covered by the at least
one adhesive-covered portion of the second adhesive patch by less
than 30% (of the adhesive covered area), or even by less than 10%
or not at all. To this end, and subject to the patterns of
adhesive, the adhesive patches may be positioned at the same
orientation or at different orientations one with respect to the
other.
[0198] In some embodiments a set of adhesive patches is provided
comprising adhesive patches having such patterns of adhesive on the
bottom surfaces of the adhesive patches such that a first adhesive
patch and a second adhesive patch may be placed in sequence over
the same placement surface such that the portion of the placement
surface that is covered by the bottom surface of the first adhesive
patch overlaps the portion of the placement surface that is covered
by the surface of the second adhesive patch by at least 50% or even
by at least 90% or even 100% overlap, and the portion of the
placement surface that is covered by the at least one
adhesive-covered portion of the first adhesive patch overlaps the
portion of the placement surface that is covered by the at least
one adhesive-covered portion of the second adhesive patch by less
than 30%, or even not at all. To this end, and subject to the
patterns of adhesive, the adhesive patches may be positioned at the
same orientation or at different orientations one with respect to
the other.
[0199] Attention is now drawn to an example of a set of patches
depicted in FIGS. 19A-19C. In this example, the adhesive patterns
on the bottoms of a first adhesive patch 181 and a second adhesive
patch 1810 are shown, each having adhesive-covered portions 183,
adhesive-free portions 184 and an opening 182 in the layer of
radiation absorbing material in the adhesive patch. As seen, the
adhesive-covered portions 183 and adhesive-free portions 184 in
both adhesive patches are in the form of vertical bars, but in
different arrangements: where there is an adhesive-covered portion
183 in the first adhesive patch pattern 181, there is a
non-adhesive-covered portion 184 in the second adhesive patch
pattern 1810, and vice versa. Therefore, the patches may be
overlaid at the exact same position, with the adhesive-covered
portions of one not overlapping those of the other. At times, the
precise position and size of the adhesive-covered portions 143 may
vary such that some overlap between adhesive-covered portions of
the first patch over adhesive-covered portions of the second patch
is allows (e.g. less than 30%).
[0200] In use, a user may position the patches at the same position
with imperfect precision, which may cause or increase overlap
between adhesive-covered portions of the patches. In order to
reduce the chances of such unintentional overlap a patch pattern of
two or more patches in a set may be selected to include portions
that are free of adhesive in both patterns. This is schematically
depicted as thick lines 185 in FIGS. 19A and 19B.
[0201] Optionally, a plurality of adhesive patches in a set have
the same size and shape. Optionally, some adhesive patches in a set
might have different sizes and/or different shapes. This is
depicted for example schematically by a circumferential ring 186 in
FIG. 19B. This ring may be, for example, sized to be outside the
outer boundary of the pattern of adhesive patch 180 when
superimposed over adhesive patch pattern 1810. Thus,
circumferential ring 186 may be covered partially or completely
with adhesive, as it may not overlap any adhesive-covered portion
183 of adhesive patch pattern 181.
[0202] Optionally, an adhesive pattern may be placed under opening
182. An example for patterns of adhesive under an opening in a
patch is depicted in FIG. 19C. In this example, each of pattern
1820 and pattern 182 has adhesive-covered portion(s) 183, but at
different positions, such that the patterns may be superimposed one
on the other and the adhesive-covered portions will not overlap or
only slightly overlap (with less than 30% overlap).
[0203] In some embodiments (for example as depicted in FIG. 19B)
the adhesive pattern under the opening is provided separately from
the adhesive pattern of the patch. For example, the EM probe may be
attached to an adhesive pattern at its bottom and later both are
connected to an adhesive patch according to any of the above
embodiments.
[0204] In some embodiments, the adhesive patch may be provided with
an adhesive pattern extending both under the radiation absorbing
material layer and the opening (or where there is no opening). A
set of adhesive patches having one example for such a pattern is
shown in FIGS. 20A and 20B. In this example, the adhesive patterns
190 and 1900 (and optionally also the planar members of the
corresponding adhesive patches) have an essentially rectangular
shape. The location of an opening 192 is depicted by a dashed line.
In this example, adhesive patterns 190 and 1900 comprise circular
adhesive-covered portions 193 and circular non-adhesive-covered
portions 194.
[0205] In some embodiments, the adhesive covered portion of one
adhesive patch is larger than the adhesive covered portion of
another adhesive patch, thereby covering a greater portion of the
placement surface. In some such embodiments, the percentage of
overlap is calculated as a percentage of the portion of the
placement surface that is covered by the adhesive covered portion
having a larger area. In other such embodiments, the above
percentage of overlap is calculated as a percentage of the portion
of the placement surface that is covered by the adhesive covered
portion having a smaller area.
Examples
[0206] Reference is now made to the following examples, which
together with the above descriptions, illustrate some embodiments
of the invention in a non-limiting fashion.
[0207] Reference is now made to FIGS. 11A, 11B and 11C, which are
images of respectively, surface current density in an EM probe
without a layer of absorbing material and a surface current density
in an EM probe with a layer of absorbing material covering both
sides of a circumferential flange as well as covering a cup shaped
cavity, and a current density in an EM probe with a layer of
absorbing material covering the bottom side only of a
circumferential flange, according to some embodiments of the
present invention. Reference is also made to FIGS. 12A, 12B and
12C, which are images of, respectively, H-field distribution in an
EM probe without a layer of absorbing material and a H-field
distribution in an EM probe with a layer of absorbing material
covering both sides of a circumferential flange as well as covering
a cup shaped cavity, and an H-field distribution in an EM probe
with a layer of absorbing material covering the bottom side only of
a circumferential flange, according to some embodiments of the
present invention. Reference is also made to FIGS. 13A, 13B and
13C, which are images of, respectively, E-field distribution in an
EM probe without a layer of absorbing material, E-field
distribution in an EM probe with a layer of absorbing material
covering both sides of a circumferential flange as well as covering
a cup shaped cavity, and an E-field distribution in an EM probe
with a layer of absorbing material covering the bottom side only of
a circumferential flange, according to some embodiments of the
present invention. FIGS. 11-13 depict a simulation of an EM probe
having an antenna mounted in an inner volume of a cup shape cavity.
The antenna radiates RF radiation in a frequency belonging to band
of about 0.4 Ghz or 0.9 Ghz or 2.4 Ghz or 5.6 Ghz or belonging to a
UWB band, for example in 3-6 Ghz band, or another frequency or band
in the UHF band. The sizes of the cup shape cavity is optionally of
a square shape of dimension about 2, 4, 5, 7, 10, 13, 17 or 20
centimeters and the antenna is sized to spanning 20, 30, 50, 80,
90, or 95% of the width of the cavity. As depicted by these
figures, the layer of absorbing material isolates the radiated area
and limits it to the inner volume of the EM probe.
[0208] It is expected that during the life of a patent maturing
from this application many relevant devices and methods will be
developed and the scope of the term transducer, cavity, absorbing
material, and controller is intended to include all such new
technologies a priori.
[0209] As used herein the term "about" refers to .+-.10%.
[0210] The terms "comprises", "comprising", "includes",
"including", "having" and their conjugates mean "including but not
limited to". This term encompasses the terms "consisting of" and
"consisting essentially of".
[0211] The phrase "consisting essentially of" means that the
composition or method may include additional ingredients and/or
steps, but only if the additional ingredients and/or steps do not
materially alter the basic and novel characteristics of the claimed
composition or method.
[0212] As used herein, the singular form "a", "an" and "the"
include plural references unless the context clearly dictates
otherwise. For example, the term "a compound" or "at least one
compound" may include a plurality of compounds, including mixtures
thereof.
[0213] The word "exemplary" is used herein to mean "serving as an
example, instance or illustration". Any embodiment described as
"exemplary" is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or
advantageous over other embodiments and/or to exclude the
incorporation of features from other embodiments.
[0214] The word "optionally" is used herein to mean "is provided in
some embodiments and not provided in other embodiments". Any
particular embodiment of the invention may include a plurality of
"optional" features unless such features conflict.
[0215] Throughout this application, various embodiments of this
invention may be presented in a range format. It should be
understood that the description in range format is merely for
convenience and brevity and should not be construed as an
inflexible limitation on the scope of the invention. Accordingly,
the description of a range should be considered to have
specifically disclosed all the possible EM radiation absorbing
substrate-ranges as well as individual numerical values within that
range. For example, description of a range such as from 1 to 6
should be considered to have specifically disclosed sub-ranges such
as from 1 to 3, from 1 to 4, from 1 to 5, from 2 to 4, from 2 to 6,
from 3 to 6 etc., as well as individual numbers within that range,
for example, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6. This applies regardless of the
breadth of the range.
[0216] Whenever a numerical range is indicated herein, it is meant
to include any cited numeral (fractional or integral) within the
indicated range. The phrases "ranging/ranges between" a first
indicate number and a second indicate number and "ranging/ranges
from" a first indicate number "to" a second indicate number are
used herein interchangeably and are meant to include the first and
second indicated numbers and all the fractional and integral
numerals therebetween.
[0217] It is appreciated that certain features of the invention,
which are, for clarity, described in the context of separate
embodiments, may also be provided in combination in a single
embodiment. Conversely, various features of the invention, which
are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment,
may also be provided separately or in any suitable subcombination
or as suitable in any other described embodiment of the invention.
Certain features described in the context of various embodiments
are not to be considered essential features of those embodiments,
unless the embodiment is inoperative without those elements.
[0218] Although the invention has been described in conjunction
with specific embodiments thereof, it is evident that many
alternatives, modifications and variations will be apparent to
those skilled in the art. Accordingly, it is intended to embrace
all such alternatives, modifications and variations that fall
within the spirit and broad scope of the appended claims.
[0219] It is the intent of the Applicant(s) that all publications,
patents and patent applications referred to in this specification
are to be incorporated in their entirety by reference into the
specification, as if each individual publication, patent or patent
application was specifically and individually noted when referenced
that it is to be incorporated herein by reference. In addition,
citation or identification of any reference in this application
shall not be construed as an admission that such reference is
available as prior art to the present invention. To the extent that
section headings are used, they should not be construed as
necessarily limiting. In addition, any priority document(s) of this
application is/are hereby incorporated herein by reference in
its/their entirety.
* * * * *