GB2600164A

GB2600164A - Apparatus for sensing and analysing breathing

Info

Publication number: GB2600164A
Application number: GB2016947.0A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Edward Winfield George; Ann Dodgshon Constance
Original assignee: Spyras Ltd
Current assignee: Spyras Ltd
Priority date: 2020-10-26
Filing date: 2020-10-26
Publication date: 2022-04-27
Also published as: WO2022090702A3; GB202016947D0; WO2022090702A2

Abstract

An apparatus 100 for monitoring a user’s breathing includes a sensor cartridge 106 with a breathing sensor (208, fig 4), and an electronics module 104. The sensor cartridge 106 and electronics module 104 releasably mate with each other via first and second connecting surfaces such as screw threads or a magnetic attachment mechanism. The sensor 208 may be a paper based chemical sensor (700, fig 7) with concentric spiral electrodes. The sensor 208 may be a gas sensor for detecting water vapour, oxygen or carbon dioxide. The sensor data may be used to determine the user’s breathing pattern, health or fitness. The apparatus 100 may be a wearable apparatus such as a face mask or a face mask filter.

Description

Apparatus for Sensing and Analysing Breathing The present techniques generally relate to apparatuses for monitoring health, and in particular relate to monitoring health by sensing and analysing breathing.

Breathing is difficult to measure, but breathing rate has been described as one of the most sensitive and important indicators of the deterioration of patient health. However, generally speaking, in hospitals breathing rate is monitored by occasional visual assessment, e.g. by observing the rise and fall of a patient's chest for 30 seconds every 12 hours. As well as being time-consuming, qualitative and highly prone to human error, some medical cases where breathing rate, and changes in breathing rate, have not been observed have led to avoidable patient death.

Face masks are worn in a number of different environments. For example, oxygen-delivering face masks may be worn by patients in a hospital, and training masks may be worn by athletes or people during exercise. However, such masks need to be washed or sterilised for re-use or may be single-use devices or products, which makes it more difficult and/or expensive to use these existing masks for monitoring breathing.

Therefore, there is a desire to provide an improved apparatus for monitoring health by sensing and analysing breathing.

In a first approach of the present techniques, there is provided an apparatus comprising: a sensor cartridge comprising a sensor within the sensor cartridge for sensing breathing of a user using the apparatus, and a first connecting surface; and an electronics module for receiving sensor data from the sensor cartridge, the electronics module comprising a second connecting surface; wherein the sensor cartridge and electronics module are configured to releasably mate via the first connecting surface and the second connecting surface.

In a second approach of the present techniques, there is provided a kit comprising: at least one disposable apparatus comprising an integrated sensor cartridge, the integrated sensor cartridge comprising: a sensor within the sensor cartridge for sensing breathing of a user using the apparatus, and a first connecting surface; and an electronics module for receiving sensor data from the sensor cartridge, the electronics module comprising: a second connecting surface; wherein the sensor cartridge and electronics module are configured to releasably mate via the first connecting surface and the second connecting surface.

In a third approach of the present techniques, there is provided a sensor cartridge for use with a wearable apparatus, the sensor cartridge comprising: a sensor for sensing breathing of a user using a wearable apparatus, and a connecting surface; wherein the connecting surface of the sensor cartridge is configured to releasably mate with a connecting surface of an electronics module.

In a fourth approach of the present techniques, there is provided an electronics module for use with a wearable apparatus, the electronics module comprising: a connecting surface for releasably mating with a connecting surface of a sensor cartridge; and a communication module for, when the electronics module is coupled to a sensor cartridge: receiving sensor data from a sensor cartridge, and transmitting received sensor data to a remote processor for analysing the sensor data.

Preferred features are set out in the dependent claims and described below. Preferred features described below apply equally to each approach.

The present techniques provide an apparatus which, when assembled for use or when in use, comprises a sensor cartridge and an electronics module. The sensor cartridge comprises a sensor for sensing the breathing of a user using the apparatus. The electronics module comprises electronics components for receiving sensor data from the sensor cartridge, and transmitting the sensor data to an external/remote processor for processing and analysis. To ensure it is simple for a user to assemble the apparatus, the sensor cartridge has a (first) connecting surface, and the electronics module has a (second) connecting surface, which are designed to releasably mate together. Advantageously, this means that when a sensor cartridge needs to be replaced, the electronics module can be decoupled from the sensor cartridge and coupled to/mated with a new, replacement sensor cartridge. Providing the sensor separately to the electronics means that it is easier to replace the sensor, and it means that the still-operational/functioning electronics do not need to be discarded when the sensor is discarded. Thus, the present techniques may be more environmentally-friendly than other, non-modular devices.

Any suitable mechanism may be used to releasably couple together the sensor cartridge and the electronics module. For example, the first connecting surface (of the sensor cartridge) may comprise a screw thread and the second connecting surface (of the electronics module) may comprise a corresponding screw thread. The screw thread of the first connecting surface may be a male thread (i.e. an external thread), and the screw thread of the second connecting surface may be a female thread (i.e. an internal thread or groove), or vice versa.

In another example, the first connecting surface and the second connecting surface may releasably mate using a snap-fit mechanism. The first connecting surface may comprise at least one snap joint (e.g. a hook, stud or bead) which deflects or depresses slightly during a mating operating such that the or each snap joint catches/latches in at least one depression in the second connecting surface.

In another example, the first connecting surface may comprise one of: a plurality of arms protruding from the first connecting surface, each arm having a latching extension, or a plurality of corresponding slots; and the second connecting surface may comprise the other of a plurality of arms protruding from the second connecting surface or a plurality of corresponding slots. In this example, when the sensor cartridge and electronics module are mated, the latching extension of each arm may engage with a slot of the plurality of corresponding slots.

In another example, the first connecting surface and the second connecting surface may releasably mate using a magnetic attachment mechanism. For example, the first connecting surface may comprise at least one magnet, and the second connecting surface may comprise at least one magnet. The at least one magnet on the first connecting surface is arranged to attract the at least one magnet on the second connecting surface. The at least one magnet on each connecting surface may be permanent magnets.

The sensor cartridge may comprise a first electrical connector. The electronics module may comprise a second electrical connector. When the sensor cartridge and electronics module are mated, the first electrical connector aligns with and contacts the second electrical connector. In this way, sensor data obtained by the sensor of the sensor cartridge may be transmitted to/received by the electronics module.

The electrical connector of the sensor cartridge and electronics module may take any suitable form. The electrical connector of the sensor cartridge and electronics module may be of the same form/type, or may be different.

For example, the sensor cartridge may comprise circuitry including a Universal Serial Bus (USB) port -in this case, the USB port is the first electrical connector. The electronics module may comprise a corresponding USB connector, which is the second electrical connector. When the sensor cartridge and electronics module are mated, the USB connector aligns with and connects with 20 the USB port. The USB connector may also help the sensor cartridge and electronics module to mate/couple together.

In some cases, the first connecting surface of the sensor cartridge may comprise the first electrical connector, and the second connecting surface of the electronics module may comprise the second electrical connector. When the sensor cartridge and electronics module are mated, the first electrical connector aligns with and contacts the second electrical connector. In this way, sensor data obtained by the sensor of the sensor cartridge may be transmitted to/received by the electronics module.

The electrical connector on the first connecting surface and second connecting surface may take any suitable form. The electrical connector on both the first connecting surface and second connecting surface may be of the same form/type, or may be different.

In one example, the electrical connector on the first connecting surface may be at least a first pair of electrical contacts, which each pair is electrically connected to an electrode pair of the sensor of the sensor cartridge. The electrical connector on the second connecting surface may be at least a second pair of electrical contacts. The electrical contacts on both the first connecting surface and second connecting surface may be conductive tabs or conductive pads. In another example, the electrical contacts on one of the connecting surfaces may be spring-loaded conductive contact tabs/pads, and the electrical contacts on the other one of the connecting surfaces may be fixed (static) conductive tabs/pads.

Preferably, when the sensor cartridge and electronics module are mated, a fluid-tight seal (i.e. liquid-tight and gas-tight) is formed. In the case where the apparatus is a mask filter, or comprises a mask filter, the sensor cartridge may be provided on one side of the filter and the electronics module may be provided on the other side of the filter. When the sensor cartridge and electronics module are mated, the fluid tight seal advantageously means that when a user is wearing a mask, air from the environment is drawn in through the filter of the mask. The fluid tight seal means there the filter is not compromised at the location where the sensor cartridge and electronics module are provided. That is, the fluid tight seal ensures the filter is not bypassed (thereby ensuring the filter continues to function correctly). As certain chemicals from the environment are removed by the filter, the operating conditions for the sensor of the sensor cartridge may be improved. Furthermore, this may beneficially mean that the apparatus is washable after use or after several uses. If the apparatus is being used during exercise, for example, it may be desirable to wash the apparatus regularly (by hand or in a washing machine).

Any suitable technique may be used to form the fluid-tight seal between the sensor cartridge and electronics module.

In one example, the first connecting surface may stand proud of (i.e. protrude from) a body of the sensor cartridge, while the second connecting surface may comprise a circumferential wall. In this case, when the sensor cartridge and electronics module are mated, the first connecting surface may be located within the circumferential wall, and a fluid-tight seal is formed between the first connecting surface of the sensor cartridge and the circumferential wall of the electronics module.

The electronics module is preferably removably attached to the apparatus. 5 As mentioned above, this means that when the sensor cartridge needs to be replaced, the electronics module does not need to be replaced or discarded but can simply be attached to a new, replacement sensor cartridge.

The sensor cartridge may be removably attached to the apparatus. In this case, the apparatus could be replaced as required without having to also discard/replace the sensor cartridge. This could be useful if the apparatus needs to be replaced sooner or more often than the sensor cartridge. Alternatively, the sensor cartridge may be permanently attached to the apparatus. In this case, because of the permanent attachment, when either the sensor cartridge or the apparatus needs to be replaced, both the sensor cartridge and apparatus have to be discarded and replaced.

As mentioned above, the sensor cartridge comprises a sensor (or at least one sensor). The sensor of the sensor cartridge may be a paper-based chemical sensor. An example of a paper-based chemical sensor can be found in International Patent Publication No. W02016/065180 and US Patent No. US10712337.

Preferably, the paper-based chemical sensor may comprise a pair of electrodes arranged in a concentric spiral pattern. Arranging the electrodes in a concentric spiral pattern maximises the electrode area within the confines of the overall sensor area. The spiral pattern may have any shape. For example, the spiral pattern may be substantially circular, square, rectangular, etc. The paper-based chemical sensor may comprise at least two paper-based chemical sensors, which may be for sensing different chemicals. In one example, the paper-based chemical sensor may comprise a first chemical sensor for sensing a particular chemical and may comprise a second chemical sensor which acts as a reference sensor. The use of a reference sensor may enable the magnitude of the chemical being detected by the first chemical sensor to be more easily determined. That is, the reference sensor may provide a baseline or reference signal.

In another example, each paper-based chemical sensor may be for sensing different chemicals. For instance, the or each paper-based chemical sensor may sense any one of: water vapour, carbon dioxide, oxygen, ammonia, ketones, acetones, and volatile organic compounds.

The paper-based chemical sensors may be arranged in a single concentric spiral pattern. This may advantageously enable a single component (i.e. sensor component of the sensor cartridge) to be able to detect multiple chemicals without needing to increase the size of the component.

For each chemical sensor, a ratio of electrode thickness to electrode spacing may be optimised for the chemical being sensed.

The apparatus may comprise at least one hydrophobic mesh layer. For example, the sensor cartridge may comprise at least one hydrophobic mesh layer to protect the sensor of the sensor cartridge. Additionally or alternatively, the electronics module further comprises at least one hydrophobic mesh layer to protect a component(s) of the electronics module.

The sensor may be sandwiched between a hydrophobic mesh layer and another component of the sensor cartridge (e.g. a circuit board). Alternatively, the sensor may be sandwiched between a pair of hydrophobic mesh layers. The or each hydrophobic mesh layer may comprise a polyester filament mesh coated with a hydrophobic coating. If the sensor is sandwiched between a hydrophobic mesh layer and a circuit board, the (printed) circuit board may also be coated with a protective layer (e.g. a conformal coating) to protect against moisture, dust, chemicals, etc. As mentioned above, the sensor cartridge comprises a sensor (or at least one sensor). Generally, the sensor of the sensor cartridge may comprise at least one of any one of the following sensors: a thermistor, a humidity sensor, a gas

S

sensor, a pressure sensor, a microphone, a sound sensor or detector, and a sensor comprising a porous material or a hygroscopic material.

The electronics module of the apparatus may comprise: a communication module for transmitting sensor data to a remote processor for analysing the sensor data, to determine at least one of: a total number of breaths taken, a total use time of the apparatus, a breathing pattern, an accuracy of the sensor over time, an exertion score, an indication of user lung function, information on when the sensor cartridge needs to be replaced, information on when a filter of the apparatus needs to be replaced, information on user health, and information on user fitness. The sensor data may be analysed using any of the techniques described in International Patent Application No. PCT/G32020/052112, which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

As well as communicating with the remote processor, the communication module may also communicate with the sensor cartridge (to e.g. obtain sensor data). Due to the proximity of the electronics module to the sensor cartridge, the communication module may use short-range communication protocols to communicate with the sensor cartridge. For example, the communication module zo of the electronics module may use near-field communication, NEC, to communicate with the sensor cartridge and sensor cartridge.

The electronics module may comprise a processor coupled to a visual indicator for providing information on one or more of: a status of the electronics module, a status of the sensor cartridge, real-time or near real-time breathing of a user of the apparatus.

The processor may send a control signal to the visual indicator to turn on, turn off, flash, and/or change colour to provide the information. It will be understood that these are example, non-limiting ways of using the visual indicator to provide information.

The processor may generate the control signal based on one of: raw sensor data received from the sensor cartridge, processed sensor data generated by the 35 processor, and processed sensor data received from a remote processor for analysing the sensor data. That is, the processor may use raw sensor data from the sensor cartridge to generate the control signal. This may be useful if the visual indicator is needed to provide real-time or immediate information in response to the sensor data. However, sensor data may be noisy or may need to be processed to extract useful information, such as a breathing pattern or breathing rate (as described in International Patent Application No. PCT/GB2020/052112). Therefore, the processor may use sensor data that has been fully or at least partially processed by the processor itself or by a remote processor. The remote processor may receive the sensor data in real-time or near real-time and may analyse the sensor data to, for example, generate a breathing pattern, which the remote processor may send back to the processor of the apparatus for use in generating the control signal for the visual indicator. This may introduce a short delay or lag between receiving the sensor data and controlling the visual indicator, but the lag may be compensated for by the fact the visual indicator is controlled using less noisy or more meaningful data than the raw sensor data.

The visual indicator may comprise at least one light emitting diode (LED). The operation or state of the LED(s) may be controlled by the control signal generated by the processor.

The electronics module of the apparatus may comprise a further sensor, wherein the further sensor is any one of: a thermistor, a humidity sensor, a gas sensor, a pressure sensor, a microphone, and a sound sensor or detector. Thus, the apparatus may comprise at least one sensor in the sensor cartridge, and at least one sensor in the electronics module. The further sensor(s) in the electronics module may also sense breathing (to augment the sensor data of the sensor cartridge) or may sense external or environmental factors, such as temperature, humidity, etc. Knowledge of these external factors (such as the humidity of the environment in which the user is located) may enable a breathing pattern to be generated more accurately. Similarly, other data such as pressure and external/environmental temperature may be used. The further sensor may be protected by a hydrophobic mesh, for example, so that when the sensor is used to sense external or environment factors it is protected from water ingress (or excessive water ingress). The hydrophobic mesh may also beneficially make the electronics module washable.

The apparatus may be any one of: a wearable apparatus, a resistive sports mask, an oxygen deprivation mask, an apparatus worn over or in a user's mouth and/or nose, a medical breath monitoring apparatus, a face mask, a disposable face mask, a face mask comprising a filter, a filter for a face mask, a personal protection equipment face mask, a surgical mask, an oxygen mask, an inhaler, an asthma inhaler, a drug delivery device, an e-cigarette, a heat moisture exchanger, an underwater (e.g. scuba) diving regulator, and a nasal cannula. It will be understood that this is an example, non-exhaustive list of possible types of apparatus that could be used to sense breathing and monitor user health. Generally speaking, the apparatus may be any device which is able to be placed in the proximity of exhaled air or which can receive exhaled air (e.g. via tubes that direct exhaled air from the user to the apparatus).

In a related approach of the present techniques, there is provided a (non-transitory) computer readable medium carrying processor control code which when implemented in a system causes the system to carry out any of the methods, processes and techniques described herein.

As will be appreciated by one skilled in the art, the present techniques may be embodied as a system, method or computer program product. Accordingly, present techniques may take the form of an entirely hardware embodiment, or an embodiment combining software and hardware aspects.

Furthermore, the present techniques may take the form of a computer program product embodied in a computer readable medium having computer readable program code embodied thereon. The computer readable medium may be a computer readable signal medium or a computer readable storage medium. A computer readable medium may be, for example, but is not limited to, an electronic, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared, or semiconductor system, apparatus, or device, or any suitable combination of the foregoing.

Computer program code for carrying out operations of the present techniques may be written in any combination of one or more programming languages, including object oriented programming languages and conventional procedural programming languages. Code components may be embodied as procedures, methods or the like, and may comprise sub-components which may take the form of instructions or sequences of instructions at any of the levels of abstraction, from the direct machine instructions of a native instruction set to high-level compiled or interpreted language constructs.

Embodiments of the present techniques also provide a non-transitory data carrier carrying code which, when implemented on a processor, causes the processor to carry out any of the methods described herein.

The techniques further provide processor control code to implement the above-described methods, for example on a general purpose computer system or on a digital signal processor (DSP). The techniques also provide a carrier carrying processor control code to, when running, implement any of the above methods, in particular on a non-transitory data carrier. The code may be provided on a carrier such as a disk, a microprocessor, CD-or DVD-ROM, programmed memory such as non-volatile memory (e.g. Flash) or read-only memory (firmware), or on a data carrier such as an optical or electrical signal carrier. Code (and/or data) to implement embodiments of the techniques described herein may comprise source, object or executable code in a conventional programming language (interpreted or compiled) such as C, or assembly code, code for setting up or controlling an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), or code for a hardware description language such as Verilog (RTM) or VHDL (Very high speed integrated circuit Hardware Description Language). As the skilled person will appreciate, such code and/or data may be distributed between a plurality of coupled components in communication with one another. The techniques may comprise a controller which includes a microprocessor, working memory and program memory coupled to one or more of the components of the system.

It will also be clear to one of skill in the art that all or part of a logical method according to embodiments of the present techniques may suitably be embodied in a logic apparatus comprising logic elements to perform the steps of the above-described methods, and that such logic elements may comprise components such as logic gates in, for example a programmable logic array or application-specific integrated circuit. Such a logic arrangement may further be embodied in enabling elements for temporarily or permanently establishing logic structures in such an array or circuit using, for example, a virtual hardware descriptor language, which may be stored and transmitted using fixed or transmittable carrier media.

In an embodiment, the present techniques may be implemented using multiple processors or control circuits. The present techniques may be adapted to run on, or integrated into, the operating system of an apparatus.

In an embodiment, the present techniques may be realised in the form of a data carrier having functional data thereon, said functional data comprising functional computer data structures to, when loaded into a computer system or network and operated upon thereby, enable said computer system to perform all the steps of the above-described method.

Implementations of the present techniques will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1A shows an example apparatus comprising a sensor cartridge and removable electronics module, and Figure 1B shows the apparatus of Figure 1B with the electronics module removed; Figure 2A shows a view of the sensor cartridge, Figure 23 shows a perspective view of the electronics module, and Figure 2C shows the sensor cartridge prior to being coupled to the electronics module; Figure 3A shows the apparatus of Figure 1A comprising an aperture in which a sensor cartridge may be provided, Figure 3B shows the sensor cartridge coupled 30 to the apparatus, and Figure 3C shows the electronics module coupled to the sensor cartridge; Figure 4A shows an exploded view of the sensor cartridge, and Figure 4B shows an exploded view of the electronics module; Figure 5A shows a plan view of a visual indicator of the electronics module, and Figure 5B shows a side view of the visual indicator; Figures 6A to 6F show views of how the visual indicator may be used to provide information; Figure 7A shows a plurality of single paper-based chemical sensors, and Figure 7B shows two paper-based chemical sensors according to the present techniques; and Figures 8A and 8B show possible designs of the paper-based chemical sensors.

Broadly speaking, embodiments of the present techniques provide apparatus for monitoring health, and in particular relate to monitoring health by sensing and analysing breathing. The apparatus, when assembled for use or when in use, comprises a sensor cartridge and an electronics module. The sensor cartridge comprises a sensor for sensing the breathing of a user using the apparatus. The electronics module comprises electronics components for receiving sensor data from the sensor cartridge, and transmitting the sensor data to an external/remote processor for processing and analysis. To ensure it is simple for a user to assemble the apparatus, the sensor cartridge has a (first) connecting surface, and the electronics module has a (second) connecting surface, which are designed to releasably mate together.

Figure íA shows an example apparatus 100 comprising a sensor cartridge 106 and removable electronics module 104, and Figure 1B shows the apparatus 100 of Figure 1B with the electronics module 104 removed. In this case, the apparatus is a face mask 102. Generally speaking, the apparatus 100 may be any device which is able to be placed in the proximity of exhaled air or which can receive exhaled air (e.g. via tubes that direct exhaled air from the user to the apparatus). In one example, the apparatus 100 may be an inhaler (such as an asthma inhaler), and in this example, the sensor cartridge may be part of the inhaler and the electronics module may be detachable from the inhaler.

The sensor cartridge 106 comprises a sensor (not visible) within the sensor cartridge for sensing breathing of a user using apparatus 100. The sensor cartridge 106 comprises a first connecting surface. The electronics module 104 is for receiving sensor data from the sensor cartridge 106. The electronics module 104 comprises a second connecting surface. The sensor cartridge 106 and electronics module 104 are configured to releasably mate via the first connecting surface and the second connecting surface. In Figure 1A, the electronics module 104 is releasably mated with/coupled to the sensor cartridge 106, while in Figure 15 the electronics module is detached/decoupled from the sensor cartridge 106.

Any suitable mechanism may be used to releasably couple together the sensor cartridge 106 and the electronics module 104. For example, the first connecting surface (of the sensor cartridge 106) may comprise a screw thread and the second connecting surface (of the electronics module 104) may comprise a corresponding screw thread. The screw thread of the first connecting surface may be a male thread (i.e. an external thread), and the screw thread of the second connecting surface may be a female thread (i.e. an internal thread or groove), or vice versa.

In another example, the first connecting surface and the second connecting surface may releasably mate using magnetic attachment mechanisms. For example, the first connecting surface may comprise at least one magnet, and the second connecting surface may comprise at least one magnet. The at least one magnet on the first connecting surface is arranged to attract the at least one magnet on the second connecting surface. The at least one magnet on each connecting surface may be permanent magnets.

Figure 2A shows a view of the sensor cartridge 106 having a particular connecting mechanism, to help illustrate how the sensor cartridge 106 may mate with the electronics module 104. In this example, the sensor cartridge 106 comprises a (first) connecting surface 200. The first connecting surface 200 comprises a plurality of arms 202 protruding from the first connecting surface, each arm 202 having a latching extension. Here, two arms 202 are provided at two positions on the connecting surface 200, but it will be understood that a single arm 202 or more than two arms 202 could be provided. The sensor cartridge 106 also comprises at least one electrical connector 204. Here, two electrical connectors 204 are shown.

Figure 2B shows a perspective view of the electronics module 104 having a corresponding connecting mechanism to the sensor cartridge 106 of Figure 2A. In this example, the electronics module 106 comprises a (second) connecting surface 300. The second connecting surface 300 comprises a plurality of slots 302 corresponding to the plurality of arms 202 of the sensor cartridge 106. Here, two slots 302 are provided at two positions on the connecting surface 300, but it will be understood that the number of slots and location of the slots may vary depending on the arrangement and number of arms 202 on the sensor cartridge 106. The electronics module 104 also comprises at least one electrical connector 304. Here, two electrical connectors 304 are shown.

Figure 2C shows a perspective view of the sensor cartridge 106 prior to being coupled to the electronics module 104. When the sensor cartridge 106 and electronics module 104 are mated, the latching extension of each arm 202 may engage with a slot 302 of the plurality of corresponding slots. Furthermore, when the sensor cartridge 106 and electronics module 104 are mated, the first electrical connector 204 aligns with and contacts the second electrical connector 304. In this way, sensor data obtained by the sensor of the sensor cartridge 106 may be transmitted to/received by the electronics module 104.

The sensor cartridge 106 comprises a sensor 208 provided within the cartridge. The sensor cartridge 106 may comprise an aperture or window 206 which allows the breath of a user wearing apparatus 100 to be sensed. A protective layer may be provided between the aperture 206 and the sensor 208 to protect the sensor 208.

The electrical connector(s) of the sensor cartridge 106 and electronics module 104 may take any suitable form. In this example, the electrical connector 204 of the sensor cartridge 106 is on the first connecting surface 200 and takes the form of a first pair of electrical contacts, where each pair is electrically connected to an electrode pair of the sensor of the sensor cartridge 106. Similarly, the electrical connector 304 of the electronics module 104 is on the second connecting surface 300 and takes the form of a second pair of electrical contacts. The electrical contacts 204, 304 on both the first connecting surface 200 and second connecting surface 300 may be conductive tabs or conductive pads. In another example, the electrical contacts on one of the connecting surfaces may be spring-loaded conductive contact tabs/pads, and the electrical contacts on the other one of the connecting surfaces may be fixed (static) conductive tabs/pads.

Preferably, when the sensor cartridge 106 and electronics module 104 are mated, a fluid-tight seal (i.e. liquid-tight and gas-tight) is formed. In the case where the apparatus is a mask filter, or comprises a mask filter, the sensor cartridge may be provided on one side of the filter and the electronics module may be provided on the other side of the filter. When the sensor cartridge and electronics module are mated, the fluid tight seal advantageously means that when a user is wearing a mask, air from the environment is drawn in through the filter of the mask. The fluid tight seal means there the filter is not compromised at the location where the sensor cartridge and electronics module are provided. That is, the fluid tight seal ensures the filter is not bypassed (thereby ensuring the filter continues to function correctly). As certain chemicals from the environment are removed by the filter, the operating conditions for the sensor of the sensor cartridge may be improved. Furthermore, this may beneficially mean that the apparatus 100 is washable after use or after several uses. If the apparatus 100 is being used during exercise, for example, it may be desirable to wash the apparatus regularly (by hand or in a washing machine).

Any suitable technique may be used to form the fluid-tight seal between the sensor cartridge and electronics module. In the example shown in Figures 2A to 2C, the first connecting surface 200 of the sensor cartridge 106 may stand proud of (i.e. protrude from) a body of the sensor cartridge, while the second connecting surface 300 may comprise a circumferential wall 306. In this case, when the sensor cartridge 106 and electronics module 104 are mated, the first connecting surface 200 may be located within the circumferential wall 306, and a fluid-tight seal is formed between the first connecting surface 200 of the sensor cartridge 106 and the circumferential wall 306 of the electronics module 104.

Figure 3A shows the apparatus 102 of Figure 1A comprising an aperture 108 in which a sensor cartridge 106 may be provided, and Figure 3B shows the sensor cartridge 106 coupled to the apparatus 102. The sensor cartridge 106 may be removably attached to the apparatus 102. In this case, the apparatus 102 could be replaced as required without having to also discard/replace the sensor cartridge. This could be useful if the apparatus 102 needs to be replaced sooner or more often than the sensor cartridge 106. Alternatively, the sensor cartridge 106 may be permanently attached to the apparatus 102. In this case, because of the permanent attachment, when either the sensor cartridge or the apparatus needs to be replaced, both the sensor cartridge and apparatus have to be discarded and replaced. In cases where the sensor cartridge 106 is permanently attached to the apparatus 102, the sensor cartridge 106 may be ultrasonically welded to the aperture 108 of the apparatus 102.

Figure 3C shows the electronics module 104 coupled to the sensor cartridge 106, which itself is coupled to the apparatus 102. The electronics module 104 is preferably removably attached to the apparatus 102 (via the sensor cartridge 106) using the coupling mechanisms described above. This means that when the sensor cartridge 106 needs to be replaced, the electronics module 104 does not need to be replaced or discarded but can simply be attached to a new, replacement sensor cartridge.

Figure 4A shows an exploded view of the components of the sensor cartridge 106. The sensor cartridge comprises a cap or face 400 which, in use, faces the user's mouth and/or nose. The sensor cartridge 106 comprises a sensor housing body 408, which is used to house components of the sensor cartridge 106 (such as sensor 208). The cap/face 400 couples to the sensor housing body 408 to seal the sensor cartridge 106. The sensor cartridge 106 comprises an aperture 206 on the cap/face 400 (as shown in Figure 2C), and comprises an aperture 409 on the sensor housing body 408. The sensor cartridge 106 comprises electrical connectors 204, as described above. The sensor cartridge 106 comprises at least one sensor 208, which may be sandwiched between a first protective layer 402 and a second protective layer 406. The first protective layer 402 and the second protective layer 406 may be hydrophobic mesh layers, which allow a user's breath 5 to pass through the aperture 206 and reach the sensor 208 but prevent liquid from reaching the sensor 208. The hydrophobic mesh layers 402, 406 may be secured within the cap 400 and sensor housing body 408 respectively using any suitable mechanism, such as a snap fit mechanism, which may pull the mesh layers taught. The hydrophobic mesh layers 402 and 406 may also be 10 overmoulded directly into cap 400 and sensor housing body 408 respectively. The sensor cartridge 106 may further comprise a mesh collar 404.

Figure 4B shows an exploded view of the electronics module 104. The electronics module 104 comprises an electronics housing body 410 which houses is components of the electronics module 104. The electronics module 104 comprises circuitry to receive, process and/or transmit sensor data. The circuitry may take the form of a printed circuit board (PCB) or PCB module 412. The electronics module 104 may comprise an 0-ring 414. The electronics module 104 may comprise a housing cap 416, which couples to the electronics (or PCB) housing body 410 to seal the electronics module 104. The electronics module comprises electrical connectors 304, as described above, which may be provided on the housing cap 416. The electronics module 104 may comprise other components, such as a further sensor (not shown). The further sensor (such as a thermistor) may be provided on or in the housing cap 416. The electronics module 104 may comprise at least one battery as a power supply to the PCB module 412, visual indicator (see Figures 5A and 5B), transmitter, and so on.

The electronics module 104 may comprise a processor coupled to at least one visual indicator for providing information on one or more of: a status of the electronics module, a status of the sensor cartridge, real-time or near real-time breathing of a user of the apparatus. Figure 5A shows a plan view of a first visual indicator 500 of the electronics module 104, and Figure 5B shows a second visual indicator 500' provided on the side of the electronics module 104. The visual indicator 500 may provide visual feedback to a user or to a third party (e.g. a personal trainer, gym instructor, medical professional, etc.) on the breathing pattern of the user. The visual indicator 500' may provide information on the battery/power status of the electronics module. This may prompt the user to (re)charge the electronics module 104.

The electronics module 104 may comprise an on/off switch 502. The electronics module 104 may comprise a power connection 504. The power connection 504 may take the form of a micro-USB port, for example.

Figures 6A to 6F show views of how the visual indicator 500 may be used to provide information. The processor of the electronics module 104 may send a control signal to the visual indicator 500 to turn on, turn off, flash, and/or change colour to provide the information. It will be understood that these are example, non-limiting ways of using the visual indicator 500 to provide information.

The visual indicator 500 may comprise at least one light emitting diode (LED). The operation or state of the LED(s) may be controlled by the control signal generated by the processor.

Here, the visual indicator 500 comprises a ring of light 600 on the zo electronics housing body 410 of the electronics module 104. Figures 6A to 6C show how the light ring 600 may be used blink or flash on/off, to provide visual feedback. For example, the blinking/flashing may occur at a rate corresponding to the user's breathing rate (as determined by analysing the sensor data). More generally, the visual indicator 500 may be used to provide information about any breathing characteristic. Example, non-limiting, breathing characteristics include: inhalation speed, exhalation speed, inhalation to exhalation ratio, number of breaths per minute (which could be used to detect hyperventilation, hypocapnia, hypoventilation, hypercapnia, etc.), average breathing rate when wearing a resistive sports mask or resistive respiratory muscle training device (which may depend on the restriction level of the resistive sports mask), exertion score, and depth or volume of inhalation or exhalation (which may be indicative of lung capacity or fitness).

Figures 6D to 6F show how the light ring 600 may be used to represent the user's breathing, where a fully-lit circle of light shows, for example, the start of a breath, and a dark circle of light shows the end of a breath. Glowing, blinking, constant and radial light features may be used to represent the user's breathing in real-time or near real-time, by syncing the visual indicator 500 to the breathing pattern detected by the sensor. The visual indicator 500 may be used to show the status of the electronics module 104, such as battery status (e.g. remaining power). Different combinations of lighting patterns could be used to provide different types of information.

The visual indicator 500 may also be used to help a user to perform breathing exercises. For example, a user may undertake breathing exercises to help reduce anxiety or stress, where the exercises may require the user to exhale slowly or to take deep breaths. The visual indicator 500 may be controlled to visually show how long the user should inhale/exhale for. In this case, the processor of the electronics module 104 may receive instructions from an app running on a smartphone communicatively coupled to the electronics module 104, where the instructions provide the processor with the information necessary to generate a control signal to control the visual indicator 500.

As mentioned above, the sensor cartridge 106 comprises a sensor 208 (or at least one sensor). The sensor 208 of the sensor cartridge may be a paper-based chemical sensor. An example of a paper-based chemical sensor can be found in International Patent Publication No. W02016/065180 and US Patent No. US10712337.

Figure 7A shows a plurality of single paper-based chemical sensors 700.

Preferably, the paper-based chemical sensor may comprise a pair of electrodes arranged in a concentric spiral pattern. Arranging the electrodes in a concentric spiral pattern maximises the electrode area within the confines of the overall sensor area. The spiral pattern may have any shape. For example, the spiral pattern may be substantially circular, square, rectangular, etc. Figure 7B shows a paper-based chemical sensor comprising two sensors, which may be for sensing different chemicals. In one example, the paper-based chemical sensor may comprise a first chemical sensor for sensing a particular 35 chemical (e.g. ammonia) and may comprise a second chemical sensor which acts as a reference sensor. The use of a reference sensor may enable the magnitude of the chemical being detected by the first chemical sensor to be more easily determined. That is, the reference sensor may provide a baseline or reference signal. In another example, each paper-based chemical sensor may be for sensing different chemicals. For instance, the or each paper-based chemical sensor may sense any one of: water vapour, carbon dioxide, oxygen, ammonia, ketones, acetones, and volatile organic compounds. The paper-based chemical sensors may be arranged in a single concentric spiral pattern. Compared to Figure 7A, this arrangement may advantageously enable a single component (i.e. sensor component of the sensor cartridge) to be able to detect multiple chemicals without needing to increase the size of the component.

Figures 8A and 8B show possible designs of the paper-based chemical sensors. For each chemical sensor, a ratio of electrode thickness to electrode spacing may be optimised for the chemical being sensed. Each chemical sensor may be optimised in different ways for different environments/applications. The parameters of the chemical sensor which could be varied include: (a) Line thickness; (b) Line spacing; (c) Height of working area of sensor component; (d) Width of working area of sensor component; (e) Contact width; and (f) Contact height.

Each chemical sensor may be printed on a paper substrate of height (g) and width (h). The ratio of turns of the electrodes may also be optimisable.

Merely to illustrate the tuneability of the sensor design, example parameters are provided with reference to Figures 8A and 83. The sensor of Figure 8A has the following parameters: Line thickness (a) = 0.35mm; Line spacing (b) = 0.3mm; Height of working area (c) = 6.6mm; Width of working area (d) = 5.3mm; Contact width (e) = 2.8mm; Contact height (f) = 1.2mm; Paper height (g) = 9mm; Paper width (h) = 12mm; and Ratio of turns (0/0) = 1.75. In comparison, the sensor of Figure 8B has the following parameters: Line thickness (a) = 0.35mm; Line spacing (b) = 0.3mm; Height of working area (c) = 2.35mm; Width of working area (d) = 2.42mm; Contact width (e) = 1.85mm; Contact height (f) = 1.2mm; Paper height (g) = 6mm; Paper width (h) = 8mm; and Ratio of turns (0/0) = 0.75. Thus, if the working area of the sensor is reduced, the number of turns may be reduced.

Those skilled in the art will appreciate that while the foregoing has described what is considered to be the best mode and where appropriate other modes of performing present techniques, the present techniques should not be limited to the specific configurations and methods disclosed in this description of the preferred embodiment. Those skilled in the art will recognise that present techniques have a broad range of applications, and that the embodiments may take a wide range of modifications without departing from any inventive concept as defined in the appended claims.

Claims

CLAIMS1. An apparatus comprising: a sensor cartridge comprising a sensor within the sensor cartridge for sensing breathing of a user using the apparatus, and a first connecting surface; and an electronics module for receiving sensor data from the sensor cartridge, the electronics cartridge comprising a second connecting surface; wherein the sensor cartridge and electronics cartridge are configured to releasably mate via the first connecting surface and the second connecting surface.
2. The apparatus as claimed in claim 1 wherein the first connecting surface comprises a screw thread and the second connecting surface comprises a corresponding screw thread.
3. The apparatus as claimed in claim 1 wherein the first connecting surface and the second connecting surface releasably mate using a snap-fit mechanism or a magnetic attachment mechanism.
4. The apparatus as claimed in claim 1 wherein: the first connecting surface comprises one of: a plurality of arms protruding from the first connecting surface, each arm having a latching extension, or a plurality of corresponding slots; and the second connecting surface comprises the other of a plurality of arms protruding from the second connecting surface or a plurality of corresponding slots; wherein, when the sensor cartridge and electronics module are mated, the latching extension of each arm engages with a slot of the plurality of corresponding 30 slots.
5. The apparatus as claimed in claim 1, 2, 3 or 4 wherein: the sensor cartridge comprises a first electrical connector; the electronics module comprises a second electrical connector; and when the sensor cartridge and electronics module are mated, the first electrical connector aligns with and contacts the second electrical connector.
6. The apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim wherein: the first connecting surface stands proud of a body of the sensor cartridge; the second connecting surface comprises a circumferential wall; and when the sensor cartridge and electronics module are mated, the first connecting surface is located within the circumferential wall, and a fluid-tight seal is formed between the first connecting surface of the sensor cartridge and the circumferential wall of the electronics module.
7. The apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the electronics module is removably attached to the apparatus.
8. The apparatus as claimed in any of claims 1 to 7 wherein the sensor of the sensor cartridge is a paper-based chemical sensor.
9. The apparatus as claimed in claim 8 wherein the paper-based chemical sensor comprises a pair of electrodes arranged in a concentric spiral pattern.
10. The apparatus as claimed in claim 8 or 9 wherein the paper-based chemical sensor comprises at least two paper-based chemical sensors for sensing different chemicals.
11. The apparatus as claimed in claim 10 wherein the paper-based chemical sensors are arranged in a single concentric spiral pattern.
12. The apparatus as claimed in any of claims 8 to 11 wherein the paper-based chemical sensor senses any one of: water vapour, carbon dioxide, oxygen, 30 ammonia, ketones, acetones, and volatile organic compounds.
13. The apparatus as claimed in any of claims 8 to 12 wherein the sensor cartridge further comprise a pair of hydrophobic mesh layers, and wherein the paper-based chemical sensor is sandwiched between the pair of hydrophobic mesh layers; and/or wherein the electronics module further comprises at least one hydrophobic mesh layer to protect a component of the electronics module.
14. The apparatus as claimed in claim 13 wherein each hydrophobic mesh layer comprises a polyester filament mesh coated with a hydrophobic coating.
15. The apparatus as claimed in any of claims 1 to 7 wherein the sensor of the sensor cartridge is any one of: a thermistor, a humidity sensor, a gas sensor, a pressure sensor, a microphone, a sound sensor or detector, and a sensor comprising a porous material or a hygroscopic material.
16. The apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the electronics module comprises: a communication module for transmitting sensor data to a remote processor for analysing the sensor data, to determine at least one of: a total number of breaths taken, a total use time of the apparatus, a breathing pattern, an accuracy of the sensor over time, an exertion score, an indication of user lung function, information on when the sensor cartridge needs to be replaced, information on when a filter of the apparatus needs to be replaced, information on user health, zo and information on user fitness.
17. The apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the electronics module comprises: a processor coupled to a visual indicator for providing information on one or more of: a status of the electronics module, a status of the sensor cartridge, real-time or near real-time breathing of a user of the apparatus.
18. The apparatus as claimed in claim 17 wherein the processor sends a control signal to the visual indicator to turn on, turn off, flash, and/or change colour to provide the information.
19. The apparatus as claimed in claim 18 wherein the processor generates the control signal based on one of: raw sensor data received from the sensor cartridge, processed sensor data generated by the processor, and processed sensor data received from a remote processor for analysing the sensor data.
20. The apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the electronics module comprises a further sensor, wherein the further sensor is any one of: a thermistor, a humidity sensor, a gas sensor, a pressure sensor, a microphone, and a sound sensor or detector.
21. The apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the apparatus is any one of: a wearable apparatus, a resistive sports mask, an oxygen deprivation mask, an apparatus worn over or in a user's mouth and/or nose, a medical breath monitoring apparatus, a face mask, a disposable face mask, a face mask comprising a filter, a filter for a face mask, a personal protection equipment face mask, a surgical mask, an oxygen mask, an inhaler, an asthma inhaler, a drug delivery device, an e-cigarette, a heat moisture exchanger, an underwater diving regulator, and a nasal cannula.
22. A kit comprising: at least one disposable apparatus comprising an integrated sensor cartridge, the integrated sensor cartridge comprising: a sensor within the cartridge for sensing breathing of a user using the apparatus, and a first connecting surface; and an electronics module for receiving sensor data from the sensor cartridge, the electronics module comprising: a second connecting surface; wherein the sensor cartridge and electronics module are configured to releasably mate via the first connecting surface and the second connecting surface.
23. A sensor cartridge for use with a wearable apparatus, the sensor cartridge comprising: a sensor for sensing breathing of a user using a wearable apparatus; and a connecting surface; wherein the connecting surface of the sensor cartridge is configured to releasably mate with a connecting surface of an electronics module.
24. The sensor cartridge as claimed in claim 23 wherein the sensor is a paper-based chemical sensor for sensing at least one chemical.
25. An electronics module for use with a wearable apparatus, the electronics module comprising: a connecting surface for releasably mating with a connecting surface of a sensor cartridge; and a communication module for, when the electronics module is coupled to a sensor cartridge: receiving sensor data from a sensor cartridge, and transmitting received sensor data to a remote processor for analysing the sensor data.