DE202023101025U1 - Device for determining the urine flow rate and/or biochemical data of a user's urine, vessel and test strip - Google Patents

Abstract

Device in the form of a hand-held device, in particular for home use, for determining the urine flow rate and/or determining the biochemical data of the urine of a user,
- with a replaceable container (10) for collecting the user’s urine during micturition,
- wherein the vessel (10) is detachably positionable in a receptacle (1) and
- wherein the device is equipped with means for detecting urine flow rate and/or for determining the biochemical data of the urine.

Description

The present invention relates to a device for determining the urine flow rate and/or the biochemical data of the urine of a user according to the preamble of the first claim, as well as a vessel and a test strip suitable therefor.

By examining a person's urine, extensive conclusions can be drawn about their physical well-being. This can reveal not only signs of diseases of the kidney and urinary system, but also metabolic diseases such as diabetes or liver disease.

The amount of urine released when emptying the bladder or the flow rate of the urine stream also provides clues to possible diseases such as an enlarged prostate, which leads to a narrowing of the urethra and thus affects the flow rate.

The biochemical composition of urine can be examined using self-tests in the person's usual environment, but this often involves a subjective and by no means professional evaluation of the test.

Tests that relate to both the flow rate and the biochemical composition of urine are often more complex and are usually carried out in doctors' offices or hospitals. Since many of the affected people shy away from going to a specialist or consider it unnecessary due to symptoms that are not yet too severe, many diseases remain undetected that could be treated more effectively if they were detected at an early stage.

The WO 2019/231513 A1 describes a uroflowmeter and a method for processing data generated thereby. In one aspect, the uroflowmeter is a handheld device. The uroflowmeter includes a handle, a flow chamber connected to the handle, and a sensor connected to the flow chamber that senses a parameter of urine collected in the flow chamber. The uroflowmeter may include both reusable and disposable components. As a uroflowmeter, it can identify and record data corresponding to the flow rate over the measured duration of a urinary void, but it can also time-stamp the voiding event and transmit the data to an external data collection center for additional analysis and inclusion in a comprehensive voiding report or voiding diary. Urine is initially collected in the uroflowmeter, which must be emptied and cleaned after use. However, biochemical testing of the urine is not provided.

In the EN 10 2014 008 760 A1 discloses a single-use urine flow measuring device which comprises a substantially funnel-shaped collecting container with a lower end having an outlet opening for receiving urine fluid whose maximum flow rate (Qmax) is to be measured, wherein a flow measuring device for measuring the maximum flow rate (Qmax) is arranged at the outlet opening. This device also does not allow analysis of the biochemical composition of the urine.

Finally, the EP 3 331 450 A1 a device for determining physiological data by analyzing human excrement in a toilet using at least one indicator and/or sensor, and a method for determining physiological data by analyzing human excrement in a toilet by measuring urine and/or stool values. This is done using a measuring system in which, for each measurement, an indicator or sensor can be brought into a measuring position by means of an arm in which sufficient contact with the urine or stool to be examined occurs, the indicator or sensor being designed as an independent unit, and a corresponding method in which a plurality of previously determined values are measured and then further processed and, if necessary, forwarded. The disadvantage of this device is that it has to be attached to a toilet and cannot be used hand-held.

The devices known to date either do not perform uroflowmetry and/or biochemical analysis of urine or are too large and cumbersome to operate and not suitable for home use.

In an application not yet published, a device for measuring urine flow and for determining the biochemical composition of the urine stream of a user is disclosed, comprising a flow area surrounded by an edge area, which can be manually brought into a measuring position. The device further comprises at least two first sensors for contactless detection of the flow rate of the urine stream and means for contactless detection of the biochemical composition of the urine stream, wherein the first sensors are arranged on or in the edge area and a sensor arranged in the flow area of the device or in the direction of have a detection field facing the flow area and the first sensors are optical sensors and/or ultrasonic sensors. This device is very costly and can lead to undesirable measurement errors if the user holds it unsteadily.

The invention is based on the object of providing a device for simple urological prevention, which can be manually brought into a measuring position by a user and with which a urine flow rate and/or the biochemical data of the user's urine can be determined.

The object is achieved by the features of claims 1, 18 and 21. Further expedient embodiments of the invention are the subject of the dependent claims.

• - ein auswechselbares Gefäß zum Sammeln des Urins des Nutzers während einer Miktion einsetzbar ist,
• - wobei das Gefäß in einer Aufnahme lösbar positionierbar ist und
• - wobei die Vorrichtung mit Mitteln zur Erfassung Harnfluss-Rate und/oder zur Bestimmung der biochemischen Daten des Urins ausgestattet ist,
• - wobei die Mittel in der Aufnahme des Gefäßes und/oder in einem an der Aufnahme befestigten Griff angeordnet sind.

The device is advantageously designed in the form of a hand-held device, in particular for domestic use, and serves to determine the urine flow rate and/or determine the biochemical data of the urine of a user, wherein the device according to the invention

• - a replaceable container can be used to collect the user's urine during urination,
• - whereby the vessel can be releasably positioned in a holder and
• - the device being equipped with means for detecting urine flow rate and/or for determining the biochemical data of the urine,
• - wherein the means are arranged in the receptacle of the vessel and/or in a handle attached to the receptacle.

The advantage is that the container can be disposed of after use and replaced with a new container. The user therefore does not have to clean the device itself after use.

The device itself has an extremely simple structure and requires little space.

The replaceable vessel for collecting urine from a user's micturition can be manually brought into a measuring position below the exit of the user's urethra, the vessel being detachably positioned in the holder and the holder having a handle area or being connected to a handle, and the device having at least one first sensor for detecting the weight and/or volume of the urine collected in the vessel during micturition. Additionally or alternatively, a test strip for determining the biochemical values of the urine is arranged in the vessel and the device has at least one optical sensor for contactless detection of the test strip.

Advantageously, the device for detecting the urine flow rate is equipped with at least one first sensor for detecting the weight and/or volume of the urine collected in the vessel during micturition, and a test strip for determining the biochemical values of the urine is arranged in the vessel, and the device has at least one second optical sensor (6) for contactless detection of the test strip, wherein the data detected with the first sensor and/or the second sensor can be transmitted to a terminal and can be evaluated and displayed therein by means of an evaluation unit/evaluation electronics, and that a trend analysis of the data detected over a period of time in the form of the urine flow rate and the biochemical data can be implemented.

The device has means for recording the duration of micturition and advantageously a signal processing unit evaluates the increase in weight during the duration of micturition and determines the urine flow rate therefrom.

It is possible that the device also has an inclination sensor. Then a start signal can be triggered when micturition begins and the inclination sensor can detect the sideways tipping of the vessel and this can be interpreted as the end of micturition, for example. The time period in between is used in conjunction with the weight or volume of urine collected during micturition to calculate the urine flow rate.

Preferably, the first sensor is designed as a load cell and is arranged in particular together with the optical sensor and/or the inclination sensor in the handle or the holder of the vessel.

The receptacle for detachably holding the vessel is preferably ring-shaped or clamp-like.

In the ring-like design, the vessel is inserted from above with its base into the ring-like holder. In the case of a clamp-like holder, the latter preferably grips the upper edge of the vessel.

The replaceable vessel is designed for single use for micturition or can be used several times a day for one micturition each, for example to increase the volume of urine excreted over a day.

For example, when measuring weight, the volume is determined and this is added up via the evaluation unit according to the desired period of time - e.g. one day.

The weight of the container is preferably transmitted via the container holder by means of a transmission element to a load cell arranged in the holder or in the handle.

The optical sensor is designed in particular as a camera and is also arranged in the holder or handle of the device. The camera's detection field should capture the test strip and/or the QR code.

Or the test strip and/or the barcode and/or the QR code is/are arranged on the wall of the vessel in the detection range of the optical sensor.

The QR code or barcode arranged in the container is used to identify whether it is the container intended for the application.

For illumination, a lighting device can be provided, which is preferably arranged in the area of/next to the camera on the holder and/or on the handle pointing in the direction of the test strip.

In particular, an interface is provided for transmitting the data detected by the first sensor and/or by the optical sensor and/or by the inclination sensor to an evaluation unit, preferably to a computer and/or a mobile phone and/or a tablet.

It is advantageous to store the urine flow rate and/or the biochemical data of the urine over a period of several days / weeks / months, so that a trend analysis is possible.

The preferred container is a recyclable paper cup, particularly one made of biodegradable material with an outwardly curved upper edge.

The invention thus also relates to a vessel which has a test strip or a marking for attaching the test strip on an inner side and/or wherein the vessel has a barcode and/or QR code on its inner side.

The vessel preferably has at least one test strip or at least one marking for positioning a test strip on an inner wall of its peripheral wall and/or on the inside of the bottom.

Furthermore, the container can have a barcode and/or QR code on its inner wall.

The vessel can also have at least one marking on its outer wall for its positioning so that it can be inserted into the receptacle in a certain, predetermined position.

Instead of using a container with test strips attached inside, a container can also be used which only has a marking for attaching a test strip.

In this case, a test strip with an adhesive back is used. This is then stuck into the container in the area of the marking.

The QR code, which is initially scanned with the camera, guarantees that an appropriately certified container is being used. If this is not the case, an error message appears and no measurement is taken. If a proper container is inserted into the device, the measurement process and micturition can take place, with the duration and weight of the urine being recorded first. The container is then emptied and the test strip moistened with urine is read using the camera, which allows the biochemical data of the urine to be determined. For this purpose, all data is preferably transmitted wirelessly (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth or similar) to the end device and evaluated. This is preferably done using an app and appropriate software.

“Measuring urine flow or measuring the urinary flow rate” in the sense of the invention is understood to mean the detection of the flow rate of urine during the duration of micturition. When detecting the flow rate of the urine stream, the flow rate in ml/s and/or a total volume in a unit of time and/or the flow profile in a unit of time can advantageously be detected.

The device according to the invention makes it possible to determine the biochemical composition of the urine stream essentially simultaneously with the urine flow measurement if a test strip is arranged in the device or the test strip is integrated in the container.

The time recording of the duration of micturition can also be carried out using a time recording unit integrated into the device, which, for example, begins recording the time as soon as the first sensor registers the beginning of urine intake into the vessel. The time recording ends as soon as the urine intake into the vessel also stops, ie the weight does not increase.

Advantageously, the device has a handle that is designed to be grasped by a user. Alternatively, the handle can be omitted and the user can hold the holder for the vessel. For this purpose, the holder can, for example, have a corresponding grip area.

The transmission element for transmitting the weight is preferably a metallic bending strip which is coupled to a load cell in the holder or in the handle.

Furthermore, the control unit, as well as a switch for switching the device on and off and optionally a second switch for starting and ending the detection by the sensors are preferably also located in the holder or handle.

Because the test strip is arranged in the detection field of the optical sensor and the sensor is designed as a camera, the optical sensor is able to detect the test strip and a change in color of the test strip.

The test strip can detect the biochemical composition of the urine. Preferably, the presence of at least one parameter selected from erythrocytes, proteins, sugar, ketones, leukocytes, bilirubin and/or urobilinogen in the urine stream can be detected.

For example, an increased concentration of red blood cells in the urine can indicate a possible inflammation or infection of the urinary tract and/or prostate, and in rarer cases, tumors such as kidney or bladder cancer, or kidney stones. As a rule, a red blood cell count of 100 cells/ml can be considered harmless.

An increased concentration of leukocytes can also indicate inflammation and/or infections of the bladder or kidney.

When testing for the presence of proteins, the concentration of albumin is particularly important. An increase in the albumin concentration can indicate kidney damage in diabetes mellitus or high blood pressure.

An increased concentration of sugar, especially glucose in the urine, can be an indication of increased blood sugar levels and/or diabetes mellitus. The concentration of glucose in the urine can also be increased during pregnancy or in some types of cancer.

The presence of ketones as breakdown products of fatty acids in the urine can occur, for example, in a high-fat diet or during intensive fasting, but can also be a sign of metabolic imbalance in diabetics and/or pregnant women.

Elevated bilirubin and/or urobilinogen levels in the urine can indicate liver disease, among other things. However, the cause can also be a blockage of the bile flow caused by gallstones, inflammation or tumors.

In particular, erythrocytes can be detected from a quantity of 5 erythrocytes/ml urine and/or proteins from a quantity of 10 mg/dl urine and/or sugar from a quantity of 40 mg/dl urine.

It may also be necessary to determine the pH value of the urine to be examined. A change in the pH value can occur, for example, in cases of diarrhoea or diabetes.

The discoloration of the test strip is detected by the optical sensor and evaluated by an evaluation unit. The evaluation unit can be located internally in the device or externally, with the data recorded by the device being transmitted to the evaluation unit.

The optical sensor can also register any visual abnormalities in the urine stream that are immediately detected by the optical sensor, such as a noticeable red discoloration or cloudiness. This alone can provide limited conclusions about the biochemical composition of the urine.

According to a preferred embodiment, at least one lighting device for illuminating the detection field of the optical sensor is arranged on or in the receptacle of the vessel or on/in the handle.

The recorded data is preferably processed by a processor arranged in the device and then transmitted to the evaluation unit. The results can be evaluated and displayed using an app.

It can further be provided that the device has an integrated evaluation unit and a Display device and the recorded data is evaluated directly in the device and the results are displayed. This is particularly easy for the urine flow rate.

Advantageously, the device can have one or more signal lights which emit a signal when predetermined critical limit values are exceeded or not reached.

It may also be provided that the user is informed in the event of a deviation of the recorded data from standard or normal values, for example supplemented by a reference to a necessary visit to the doctor.

In a further embodiment, the device comprises a storage medium for storing the data detected by the first sensor and by the optical sensor.

Furthermore, the device preferably has a receptacle for at least one battery or at least one rechargeable battery for power supply, which can be arranged in the receptacle or in the handle, wherein an arrangement in the handle is to be regarded as a preferred arrangement.

The inventive design of the device provides an easy-to-use device for home use that enables early detection of urological indicators in urine flow. By examining their own urine, users can discreetly and in private draw conclusions about the state of health of their body and, if necessary, seek additional advice from a specialist if the results of the examination indicate an illness or other change in the body.

The inventive arrangement of the test strip in the vessel makes it possible not to touch the test strip during and after use.

The device offers a simple health check for the early detection of prostate, kidney or bladder diseases, for example. In older patients in particular, a prostate/kidney/bladder disease that is detected too late can lead to significant functional disorders. The easy-to-perform self-test allows any unusual findings or changes to be quickly identified over time and a specialist to be consulted. Functional abnormalities (changes in urine flow, e.g. enlarged prostate or urethral strictures) and the composition of urine components are evaluated and recorded. These results are stored digitally and can be viewed by the user and evaluated by a doctor.

The longitudinal measurement is easy to repeat and makes it possible to determine changes that occur over time. It is also possible to monitor the progression of previously diagnosed diseases such as diabetes, bladder cancer, urinary tract infections, kidney and/or bladder diseases, gout (ketones as a metabolic product of fat breakdown), stones and/or cancer.

The device is advantageously designed as a handheld device and can therefore be used anywhere. It is possible to use the device at home, take it with you on vacation or generally use it anywhere, e.g. in the toilet of a rest stop, hotel or restaurant or even outdoors.

For use at home, the device according to the invention can be positioned near the toilet or urinal before and after use, for example on the toilet paper holder or on a separate holder that can be easily positioned on the wall or on the floor.

Of course, it is also possible to use the device according to the invention in medical facilities, such as routine fever measurements, for routine urine tests, without placing excessive strain on the staff.

• 1: eine schematische Seitansicht einer erfindungsgemäßen Vorrichtung,
• 2: eine schematische Seitansicht gemäß 1 mit einem eingelegten Gefäß, und einem Teilschnitt des Gefäßes,
• 3: eine dreidimensionale Darstellung der Vorrichtung mit eingesetztem Gefäß, welches zwei sich gegenüberliegende Ausguss Ausnehmungen aufweist,
• 4: eine Vorderansicht der Vorrichtung mit eingesetztem Gefäß,
• 5: eine Darstellung der Vorrichtung mit eingesetztem Gefäß, welches nur eine eine Ausgussöffnung gegenüber des Griffs aufweist,
• 6: eine schematische Seitenansicht einer erfindungsgemäßen Vorrichtung von ohne Griff, bei welcher an der Aufnahme an einem nach oben weisenden Steg die Kamera integriert ist.
• 7 Gehäusebereich mit Kamera und LED-Beleuchtung,
• 8 erfindungsgemäßer Behälter in 3D-Ansicht.

The invention is explained in more detail below using exemplary embodiments and associated figures, without being limited to these. They show:

• 1 : a schematic side view of a device according to the invention,
• 2 : a schematic side view according to 1 with an inserted vessel, and a partial section of the vessel,
• 3 : a three-dimensional representation of the device with inserted vessel, which has two opposite pouring recesses,
• 4 : a front view of the device with the vessel inserted,
• 5 : a representation of the device with the vessel inserted, which has only one pouring opening opposite the handle,
• 6 : a schematic side view of a device according to the invention from without Handle in which the camera is integrated into the holder on an upward-facing bar.
• 7 Housing area with camera and LED lighting,
• 8th Container according to the invention in 3D view.

1 shows a schematic side view of a device according to the invention in side view without vessel and the 2 to 4 Representations with a detachably inserted vessel 10.

The device has an annular receptacle 1 for inserting the vessel 10 and a handle 2.

The handle 2 is inclined with its longitudinal axis A2 in relation to the longitudinal axis A1 of the holder 1 at an angle α (see 1 ).

A housing 3 is integrated into the handle 2 at the end on the receiving side, in which at least one camera 4 is arranged, which faces inwards towards the vessel 10. A web 5 extends from the receiving end 1 to the handle 2.

At its upper end, the web 5 is connected to the handle 2 via a connecting area 6, which in turn is operatively connected to a load cell 7 integrated in the handle 2 (only in 1 shown).

Not shown are a power supply integrated into the handle 2 (e.g. at least one battery) as well as an inclination sensor and an electronic assembly integrated into the handle 2 for recording and forwarding the data recorded by the sensors to a terminal device.

The handle 2 further comprises at least one switch 8, via which the device or the electronic elements integrated therein can be activated.

The annular receptacle 1 has an inner diameter d1 for receiving a vessel 10 (see 2 to 4 ) on.

Furthermore, the receptacle 1 advantageously has orientation aids on its outer diameter for inserting the vessel 10, here opposing orientation aids 9.1, each preferably offset by 90° to the web 5, as well as an orientation aid 9.2 arranged between them.

The web 5 has at its upper end in the direction of the vessel a recess 5.1 and above this a projection 5.2 pointing in the direction of the vessel 10.

When the vessel 10 is inserted, its outwardly curved upper edge 11 engages in the recess 5.1 and the projection 5.2 extends over the edge (see 2 to 4 ).

The projection 5.2 and the edge 11 overlap by an amount a. As a result, the vessel 10 is not only fixed on the circumference via the inner diameter d1 of the receptacle 1, but is also axially fixed in the device. When pouring out the urine, the vessel 10 cannot slip out of the receptacle 1 in an undesirable manner. To remove the vessel 10, its upper edge 11 is manually pressed out of the recess 5.1.

The vessel 10 according to 2 and the 3 and 4 has an upper radially outwardly curved edge 11, a peripheral wall 12 with an inner surface 12.1 and an outer surface 12.2.

Furthermore, there is a peripheral rim 13 and a base 14 at the bottom. In the rim 11, two opposing, in particular triangular, recesses 15 are preferably made, which serve to pour out the urine.

The test strip 16 is arranged, for example, transversely on the inner surface 12.2 of the vessel 10, at a height h above the base 14, so that the camera 4 can capture it with its detection field opened at an angle β. If necessary, the test strip 16 can also be arranged on the inside of the base 14 (not shown).

Furthermore, a QR code 17 is printed on the inner surface 12.2, which is also captured by the camera 4 and via which it is read whether a container 10 intended for the application is used.

The wall 12 of the container 10 is inclined at an angle γ in the order of 2° to 20° with respect to the longitudinal axis A10 of the container 10. This advantageously results in an angle δ when the urine stream 18 hits the inner wall 12.1, preferably in the area of the test strip 16, in the order of 20° to 40°, in particular 30° +/- 5°, which reduces splashing of the urine stream 17 when it hits the wall 12.

The 3 and 4 show further views of the execution after 2 with a vessel 10 accommodated in the holder 1. The elements arranged on the inside of the inner wall in the form of test strips and QR code are indicated by dashed lines.

From the 3 and 4 It can be seen that the marking 10a of the vessel 10 on the outer wall 12.2 is aligned with the orientation aid 9.2 on the outside of the holder 1. Furthermore, the two opposing orientation aids 9.1 from the 4 which are curved outwards. The two edge-side recesses 15 in the vessel 10 are preferably positioned over the orientation aids 9.1 of the receptacle 1.

In 5 In the device according to the invention, a container 10 is arranged, which has a recess 15 opposite the handle 2 for emptying the urine. The test strip 16 is arranged on the inside of the container under the recess 15, running from top to bottom. Next to the test strip 16 is the QR code 17, also in the detection field of the camera (not visible here), which is arranged in the housing 3. In addition to the switch 8 on the handle 2, which is pressed here for example during urination, a switch 8.1 for switching on and off can be provided on the side of the handle, for example.

6 shows a variant without a handle. The ring-shaped holder 1 is essentially the same as in 1 formed, but has a handle area 19 on its outer circumference. The web 5 has the housing 3 for the camera 4 at its upper end and the housing 3 and/or the web 5 integrate the load cell and/or the inclination sensor as well as the necessary electronic components, switches and the power supply, which are arranged in the handle in the aforementioned variants. The vessel 10 is also accommodated as in the aforementioned variants.

After micturition has ended, the container 10 is tilted in one direction or the other by pivoting/rotating the holder 12 and the urine is poured out through one of the recesses 15. The container 10 can then be removed and disposed of.

In order to ensure an optimal detection field of the optical sensor/camera 4 which records the test strip 16, the optical sensor/camera 4 is arranged at an unspecified height above the edge 11 of the vessel 1 and inclined towards the test strip 16.

The first sensor is designed as a load cell 7 and is connected to the connection area 6. In this way, the first sensor in the form of the load cell 7 can detect the weight of the vessel 1 and thus also in particular of the urine in the vessel 1.

In particular, the changing weight of the container 10 during urination is recorded and thus how much urine the user micturates per period of time. This value is the urine flow rate.

7 shows the housing 3 of the camera 4 on the handle 2 or the bridge 5 in the front view. Here, in particular, at least one LED 20 is provided on both sides of the camera 4 for illumination. The cross section of the connection area 6 to the bridge 5 is also visible.

8th shows a variant of the container 10, with an upper radially outward-facing edge 11, a peripheral wall 12 with an inner wall 12.1 and an outer wall 12.2, a lower peripheral support edge 13 and a base 14.

The test strip 16 is arranged transversely above the base 14 on the inner wall 12.2.

Above the test strip, a QR code 17 is preferably printed on the inner wall 12.2.

Two recesses 15 are provided opposite one another in the upper edge 11. Alternatively, only one recess 15 indicated by dashed lines could be provided, or even three recesses 15. Furthermore, at least one marking 10a can be present on the outer wall 12.2 of the container 10, which serves as a positioning aid when inserting the container 10 into the receptacle 1.

The outer diameter of the container 10 decreases from top to bottom, so that it can be easily inserted into the holder with its base area first. The inner diameter of the holder corresponds approximately to the outer diameter of the container in its upper third, so that the upper edge 11 still protrudes slightly over the holder 1.

Of course, it is also possible to use the device according to the invention in medical facilities, for example for routine urine tests such as routine fever measurements, without placing excessive strain on the staff.

The invention describes an extremely practical device for home urological care for everyone. Whether man, woman or child. The system known as "Streamcheck24" consists of a kind of "selfie stick" with a ring or ring-shaped element at the bottom. The user can urinate through this when urinating. At least 2 cameras are installed in the side wall of the ring facing inwards, which adjust the geometry to the (jet) and from this the flow rate in ml/s is recorded. Furthermore, the entire jet is recorded over the period of the respective process in order to record the total quantities (volume) and the course. Very good urological insights can be gained from this. One of the two cameras or another camera recognizes the biochemical data of the urine. Specifically, this is for example blood, protein, protein. The data is stored in an app on the mobile phone and displayed visually there. In the event of deviations from the (normal) the user is informed and advised that a doctor's visit is necessary.

The following data is recorded in particular: 1. Flow rate a) ml/s b) Total volume / t c) Flow profile / t 2. Blood = Erys < 5/ul 3. Protein = 10mg/dl 4. Sugar = 40 mg/dl. Another feature of the invention is that instead of contactless recording of the biochemical data, a replaceable urine strip is used. This is also recorded and evaluated contactless by a camera. The urine test can be used to draw conclusions about the health of the person being examined and to record changes that occur over time. As well as to monitor the progression of illnesses, these can be, for example: blood sugar, bladder cancer, urinary tract infections, kidney and/or bladder illnesses, gout (ketones are a metabolic product of fat breakdown!), monitoring the progression of stones, cancer, the pH value - this changes in the case of diarrhea, diabetes, red blood cells: inflammation, infections, cancer, urinary stones, white blood cells: inflammation, infections.

The idea is to make urological care as easy as possible for people - without a lot of effort. The invention can be used by anyone when going to the toilet. Simply switch it on, urinate through the ring and you're done. Then simply rinse with water and the Streamcheck is ready for the next use. The ring-shaped form and the preferably round cross-section ensure that urine drains well and any urine that may still be stuck can be easily and safely washed off.

The solution according to the invention provides a mobile medical product, preferably for domestic use. The device has in particular a handle 2 and a preferably round holder/receptacle 1 for an exchangeable container 10.

It is possible to carry out a urine flow measurement while urinating. The urine measuring strip 16 attached to the container 10 can detect up to 10 biomarkers via the camera 4.

All of this data should be saved on a mobile phone and on the cloud server in order to obtain a long-term history of the measured data. The data can be viewed at any time in the associated app. For example, after 3-6 months or at least 12 valid measurements, the user can request a report, which can then be used as a PDF to present to the family doctor or urologist.

The openings in the housing 3 for the LED flashes of the LEDs 20 and the camera 4 are preferably covered by a tinted pane, in particular a plastic pane (not shown).

It is possible to manufacture the handpiece in the form of the handle and the holder from one component and to provide a "weak point" for deformation between the handpiece (handle) and the cup ring (holder) and to attach suitable strain gauges there which are connected to the load cell for weight detection.

Advantageously, markings are provided on the ring/holder to enable the cup to be aligned in the ring. Alternatively, it is also possible to make the holder geometry oval or otherwise non-circular and to use this to fix the position using a positive fit.

The preferred container is a cardboard cup (coated) in a standard format, which should have a cup volume of approx. 900ml and a usable volume of approx. 750ml. The surface of the paper cup should be printable in order to print markings for alignment and also the QR code in the camera's field of view.

When using the app for the first time, the device is paired with the app via Bluetooth.

Personal data is entered on the end device. Measurements can then begin, and the OR code captured by the camera is assigned to the user. After the measurement, the data collected is displayed to the user on the end device and saved on it.

• - Mittelwert Langzeit
• - Mittelwert Rollierend
• - Quartalsveränderung

As a user, you can access a trend analysis of all measured values. The temporal measurement history as well as a corresponding medical evaluation are displayed for the biochemical data. The trend analysis for uroflowmetry displays average values for micturition volume, max. flow, micturition time and PUR in different temporal dimensions:

• - Long-term average
• - Average Rolling
• - Quarterly change

The desired evaluation time window can be freely selected via the app.

List of reference symbols

1

Recording

2

Handle

3

Housing

4

camera

5

web

5.1

Recess

5.2

head Start

6

Connection area

7

Load cell

8th

Switch

8.1

Switch

9.1

Orientation aid

9.2

Orientation aid

10

vessel

10.a

mark

11

edge

12

Wall

12.1

Inner surface/inner wall

12.2

Exterior surface/outer wall

13

Installation edge

14

Floor

15

Recess/cutout

16

Test strips

17

QR code

18

Urine stream

19

Grip area

a

Amount of overlap

A1

Longitudinal axis of the recording

A2

Longitudinal axis of the handle

A10

Longitudinal axis of the container

d1

Inner diameter

H

Height

α

Angle between longitudinal axis A1 and longitudinal axis A2

β

Angle of detection field

γ

Angle between wall 12 and longitudinal axis A10

δ

Angle between urine stream 18 and inner wall 12.1

QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of documents listed by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions.

Cited patent literature

• WO 2019231513 A1 [0006]
• DE 102014008760 A1 [0007]
• EP 3331450 A1 [0008]

Claims (21)

Device in the form of a hand-held device, in particular for home use, for determining the urine flow rate and/or determining the biochemical data of the urine of a user, - with an exchangeable vessel (10) for collecting the user's urine during micturition, - wherein the vessel (10) can be releasably positioned in a holder (1) and - wherein the device is equipped with means for detecting the urine flow rate and/or for determining the biochemical data of the urine. Device according to Claim 1 , characterized in that - the replaceable vessel (10) for collecting urine from a micturition of the user can be brought manually into a measuring position below the exit of the user's urethra, - wherein the vessel (10) is detachably positioned in the receptacle (1) and the receptacle (10) has a handle area (19) or is connected to a handle (2) and wherein the device - has at least a first sensor for detecting the weight and/or the volume of the urine collected in the vessel (10) during a micturition. Device according to Claim 1 , comprising - an exchangeable vessel (10) for collecting urine from a user's micturition, which can be manually brought into a measuring position below the exit of the user's urethra, - wherein the vessel (10) can be detachably positioned in a receptacle (1) and the receptacle (10) has the handle area (19) or is connected to the handle (2) and wherein - a test strip (16) for determining the biochemical values of the urine is arranged in the vessel (10) and the device has at least one optical sensor for contactless detection of the test strip (16). Device in the form of a handheld device, in particular for domestic use, for determining the urine flow rate and the biochemical data of the urine of a user, comprising - an exchangeable vessel (10) for collecting urine from a micturition of the user, which can be manually brought into a measuring position below the exit of the user's urethra, - wherein the vessel (10) can be detachably positioned in a receptacle (1) and the receptacle (1) has a handle area (19) or is connected to a handle (2), - and wherein the device has at least one first sensor for detecting the weight and/or volume of the urine collected in the vessel (10) during micturition, - and wherein a test strip (16) for determining the biochemical values of the urine is arranged in the vessel (10) and the device has at least one second optical sensor for contactless detection of the test strip (16), - and that the data recorded with the first sensor and/or the second sensor can be transmitted to a terminal device and can be evaluated and displayed by means of an evaluation unit/evaluation electronics and that a trend analysis of the data recorded over a period of time can be carried out. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the means for detecting the urine flow rate and/or for determining the biochemical data of the urine are arranged in the receptacle (1) of the vessel (10) and/or in a handle (2) attached to the receptacle (1). Device according to one of the Claims 1 until 5 , characterized in that the device has means for detecting the duration of micturition and that a signal processing unit evaluates the increase in the weight of the vessel (10) during the duration of micturition and determines the urine flow rate per time period. Device according to one of the Claims 1 until 6 , characterized in that it has an inclination sensor. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first sensor is designed as a load cell (7) and that the first sensor and/or the second optical sensor and/or the inclination sensor is/are arranged on/in the handle (2) or the receptacle (1) of the vessel (10). Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the device has an annular or clamp-like receptacle (1) for releasably fastening the vessel (10). Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the exchangeable vessel (10) is designed for single use or for use over the duration of one day. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the vessel (10) is a paper cup with an outwardly curved upper edge (11). Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the test strip (16) and/or the barcode and/or the QR code (17) is/are arranged on the inside of a wall (12) of the vessel in the detection range of the optical sensor. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the weight of the vessel (10) can be transmitted via the receptacle (1) of the vessel (10) by means of a connecting region (6) of a transmission element to a load cell (7) arranged in the receptacle (1) or in the handle (2). Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the optical sensor is designed as a camera (4). Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one lighting device, in particular an LED (20), pointing in the direction of the test strip (16) is arranged on or in an edge region of the receptacle (1) and/or on the handle (2). Device according to one of the preceding claims, comprising an interface for transmitting the data detected by the first sensor and/or by the optical sensor and/or by the inclination sensor to an evaluation unit, preferably to a computer and/or a mobile phone and/or a tablet. Device according to one of the preceding claims, comprising a storage medium for storing the urine flow rate and/or the biochemical data of the urine over a period of several days / weeks / months. Vessel, characterized in that the vessel (10) has a test strip (16) or a marking for positioning a test strip (16) on an inner wall (12.1) of the wall (12) or on the inside of the bottom (14). Vessel after Claim 18 , characterized in that it has a barcode and/or QR code (17) on the inner wall (12.2) of the wall (12). Vessel after Claim 18 or 19 , characterized in that it has at least one marking for its positioning on an outer wall (12.2) of the wall (12). Test strip characterized in that the test strip has an adhesive surface on its back for attachment to an inner surface of a container (10).