WO2019016197A1

WO2019016197A1 - Urinalysis system

Info

Publication number: WO2019016197A1
Application number: PCT/EP2018/069370
Authority: WO
Inventors: Job LIPSCH; Suzanne Daniëlle VAN DER ZAAN-LANDWEHR JOHAN; Alwin Rogier Martijn Verschueren; Paul Van Der Sluis
Original assignee: Koninklijke Philips N.V.
Priority date: 2017-07-21
Filing date: 2018-07-17
Publication date: 2019-01-24

Abstract

In an embodiment, a urinalysis system for a toilet bowl that detects one or more urine components intended to be drawn from the flush water of a toilet bowl. The urinalysis system provides a simple and easy sampling of the excreted urine from the individual using standard, non-specialized toilet bowls.

Description

URINALYSIS SYSTEM

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention is generally related to personal health monitoring, and more particularly, personal urinalysis systems.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Personal health monitoring is an enabler for reducing and avoiding hospital visits, especially for sample analysis that until now only could be done at a doctor's office or hospital. Today's sensors, including those for measuring heart rate, blood pressure, temperature, weight, respiration rate, and activity, are foundational tools for self-monitoring of personal health. Ultimately, sensors should give specific health information that is actionable, so data can guide towards optimal nutrition, medication intake, and exercise, to keep bones, joints, muscles, arteries, fat level and gut microbiome healthy. Taking such preventive measures helps to reduce the chances of getting Alzheimer's disease, heart and liver diseases, cancer, COPD, type 2 diabetes, hypertension, stroke and obesity, among other health issues.

[0003] Metabolites are the roughly 2000 small molecules (<1000 Da) in the human body that together form life-sustaining chemical transformations, integral to health and proper functioning of the human body. Examples of metabolites include carbohydrates (glucose), organic acids (lactate), lipid Fatty acids (palmitate), lipid Sterols (cholesterol), lipid Steroids (testosterone), amino acids (arginine), and nucleotides (ATP). Metabolites can be monitored via urine body fluid, as can mineral ions (e.g., Mg²⁺ K⁺, etc.) and proteins. Monitoring the urine metabolites, mineral ions, and/or proteins (the urine metabolites, mineral ions, and proteins collectively referred to herein as urine components) may be useful for monitoring renal performance and medication adherence, among other conditions. Certain technologies, including

Microchip Capillary Electrophoresis (MCE), enable the measurement of the charged subset of urine components. In urine for instance, mineral or electrolyte ions (CI^", NO3^", SO₄ ^2", H₂PO₄ ^" / HPO₄ ^2", NH₄ ⁺, K⁺, Na⁺, Ca²⁺, Mg²⁺) and creatinine (which for pH<4.8 is positively charged or for pH>9.2 is negatively charged) can be detected. Besides MCE, there are other methods applicable for measuring these urine components, for example potentiometry using ion-selective membranes for measuring mineral ions, and for example voltammetry using enzymes for detecting creatinine.

[0004] Various home-based, personal urinalysis systems are available. Some systems use urinalysis systems that comprise toilet bowls with integrated urine containment chambers, cavities, or wells that isolate the excreted urine from the flush water for further analysis. One solution that makes use of standard toilet bowls may be found in U.S. Patent No. 5,730,149 (herein, the Ί 49 patent). The Ί 49 patent notes that one advantage to using a urine sampling cavity or sampling well is that urine excreted into the toilet bowl is received and collected by a considerably wide surface area of the bowl so that urine is readily sampled regardless of the direction of urination or the variation in the trajectory of the urine column. Thus, an adequate quantity of urine necessary for urinalysis can easily be sampled even in the case of elderly people who are apt to suffer from the shortage of the amount of urine per urination. The Ί49 patent, however, points to a shortcoming of such systems, namely, that they require special-purpose toilet bowl fixtures that are provided with a urine sampling cavity or well formed on the bowl surface for the purpose of sampling of urine so that a standard-type bowl fixture having a conventional bowl configuration cannot be used. Such systems, when replacing standard bowl fixtures, according to the Ί 49 patent, involve a great deal of labor and expenses and the need to discard the replaced bowl fixture. Also, the Ί 49 patent points out that, given the specialized nature of the special cavity-type bowls, it is difficult to mass produce these specialty toilet bowl fixtures, and also, there is

sometimes a concern of contamination of the excreted urine from the flush water.

Though the Ί 49 patent solution enables incorporation of their inventive device with a standard toilet bowl fixture, it still requires a movable urine sampling vessel that samples excreted urine mid-air. Direct sample collection (taken directly from the urinary stream) is practically difficult to perform for many patients, for instance children, the elderly, or in general, people with limited mobility or dexterity. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0005] One object of the present invention is to develop a urinalysis system that allows for simple urine excretion sampling without the need for a specialized toilet bowl fixture. To better address such concerns, in a first aspect of the invention, a urinalysis system for a standard toilet bowl is presented that comprises an analysis unit that recirculates the flush water containing one or more urine components between the toilet bowl and an analysis unit via coupled inlet and outlet tubing, and detects the one or more urine components. The invention obviates the cost and manufacturing concerns of specialized toilet bowls while enabling a simple and easy sampling of the excreted urine from the individual.

[0006] In one embodiment, a system is presented that further comprises: a memory configured with executable code; and a processor configured by the

executable code to determine information about the one or more detected urine components based on an internal or external reference marker added to the flush water. The information may be a concentration (e.g., using the internal reference marker) or a substance amount (e.g., in moles, using the external marker), enabling an early warning or trends in health conditions before they become serious while

circumventing the need for specialty toilet bowls or the inconvenience of mid-air sampling of a urine stream.

[0007] In one embodiment, a system is presented wherein the information comprises a respective concentration of the one or more urine components, wherein the processor is configured by the executable code to determine the respective concentration by estimating a dilution factor based on a known concentration of a reference marker recirculated with the flush water, the reference marker comprising a calibration liquid. The processor can determine the concentration of one or more urine components present in the urine sample. However the concentration of these urine components is affected by the dilution of the urine in the flush water present in the toilet bowl (and somewhat by the tubing and the analysis unit). One method to convert the obtained concentrations to concentrations in the original urine is to compute a one-time calibration of a dilution ratio. In one embodiment, this is achieved by adding (e.g., manually, or automatically via the analysis unit) a calibration liquid with a known concentration of reference markers into the toilet. The dilution factor is then obtained by dividing the obtained concentration by the known reference marker concentration. The computation of the dilution factor enables the ability to determine concentrations of the one or more urine components from samples taken directly from the flush water, which is distinct from, and indeed discouraged by, prior art mechanisms.

[0008] In one embodiment, a system is presented wherein the information comprises a respective concentration of the one or more urine components, wherein the processor is configured by the executable code to determine the respective concentration based on an internal reference marker concentration. As indicated above, since the concentrations of the one or more urine components are affected by the dilution of the urine in the flush water, conversion of the concentrations in solution to conversion in the original urine can be achieved via the computation of a one-time calibration of the dilution ratio, or in the present embodiment, using an internal reference marker (internal urine reference, including the creatinine concentration measurement). An established correlation in the field of urinalysis is the Kawasaki equation (see, e.g., Kawasaki 1993 - "A simple method for estimating 24 h urinary sodium and potassium excretion from second morning"). Using this equation, the ratio of the internal reference marker (e.g., urine component, such as sodium Na⁺) concentration with creatinine reference concentration is used. Since both

concentrations are diluted with the same unknown factor, this cancels out. Once again, the computation of the dilution factor enables the ability to determine concentrations of the one or more urine components from samples taken directly from the flush water, which is distinct from, and discouraged by, prior art mechanisms.

[0009] In one embodiment, a system is presented wherein the processor is configured by the executable code to determine the information about the one or more urine components based on a computation by the processor involving an external reference marker concentration, the external reference marker comprising a non-urine constituent, which may be embodied as a pill, powder, or a liquid droplet added to the flush water at one time or at two times separated by an event. A known substance amount (absolute amount) of marker compound, either in solid form as a pill or powder, or liquid form as a droplet, is added to the urine sample. This reference marker compound is selected such that it can be measured simultaneously with the one or more urinary components, but can be distinguished from urinary components. By relating the measured reference marker concentration to the known substance amount added, the unknown dilution factor of urine in the toilet flush water can be

circumvented, and absolute excretion levels of the urine components (e.g., absolute amount in mmol or mgram inside the urine sample) can be determined. Note that a mole, as is known, is expressed by the number of molecules in a mole (i.e., Avogadro constant, which is approximately 6.022140857 x 10²³ mol^"1), and the (absolute) amount of a substance (as opposed to its concentration, which is expressed in mol/volume) is expressed in dimensions of moles.

[0010] In one embodiment, a system is presented wherein for each of the one or more urine components, the information comprises a total amount of the urine component, wherein the total amount consists of an absolute amount of the urine component that is computed based on an absolute amount of the external reference marker and the respective concentrations of the urine component and the external reference marker. One advantage of this embodiment is that absolute urine component excretion is easily quantified, even in situations of unknown volume dilution inside the toilet bowl. This embodiment provides a huge benefit and enabler for the method of sampling urine directly from the toilet bowl, which may be a breakthrough in enabling home urinalysis for monitoring applications.

[0011] In one embodiment, a system is presented wherein for each of the one or more urine components, the information comprises any one or combination of the following: a total amount of the urine component, wherein the total amount consists of an absolute amount of the urine component; a volume of excreted urine comprising the urine component; or a total fluid volume inside the toilet bowl. In this embodiment, multiple (e.g., two) doses of an external reference marker (non-urine constituent) are added to the toilet bowl - before and after urine excretion. If two reference markers (e.g., pills, powder, droplets) of a different chemical species are added to the flush water of the toilet bowl, one added before urine excretion and allowed time to mix, and the other after urine is excreted into the toilet bowl, then urine component amounts in urine, urine component concentrations in urine, and urine volume can all be determined. Assuming the pre-urine excretion addition of the external reference marker of one species as external reference marker #1 and the post-urine excretion addition of the external reference marker of a different species as external reference marker#2, a difference between external reference markers #1 and #2 is that the concentration of external reference marker#1 is diluted by the urine volume added afterwards, while external reference marker#2 is not diluted by the urine. If external reference markers #1 and #2 consist of different compounds that can be distinguished from each other, and distinguished from the urinary components of interest, then in a single measurement (for instance, using Microchip Capillary Electrophoresis) concentrations of external reference markers #1 , #2 and the urine component(s) can be determined

simultaneously. In one embodiment, the absolute amount of the urine component is computed based on an absolute amount of the external reference marker added to the flush water before urine excretion and the respective measured concentrations of the urine component and the added external reference marker. In one embodiment, the volume of excreted urine is computed based on a first ratio minus a second ratio, wherein a first ratio comprises an absolute amount of the external reference marker added to the flush water before urine excretion divided by a measured concentration of the added external reference marker, wherein the second ratio comprises an absolute amount of the external reference marker added to the flush water after urine excretion divided by a measured concentration of the external reference marker added after the urine excretion. In one embodiment, the total fluid volume is computed based on an absolute amount of the external reference marker added to the flush water after urine excretion and a measured concentration of the external reference marker added after the urine excretion. One benefit is that the urine volume can be determined. Urine volume is a valuable parameter to monitor in itself. With this embodiment, a patient is not burdened with having to weigh, read and enter the urine volume, and clean the weighing container afterwards. The only thing the patient has to do is add two external reference markers before and after urinating, or in some embodiments, the addition of the external reference markers may be automated by the analysis unit, for instance by pumping dosed liquid drops to the toilet bowl via tubing that is at least partially submerged in the flush water of the toilet bowl.

[0012] In one embodiment, a system is presented wherein the volume of excreted urine is computed based on a first ratio minus a second ratio, wherein a first ratio comprises an absolute amount of the external reference marker added to the flush water before urine excretion divided by a measured concentration of the added external reference marker, wherein the second ratio comprises the absolute amount of the external reference marker added to the flush water before urine excretion divided by a concentration of the external reference marker measured after the urine excretion. As a variant to the previous absolute amount and volume determination embodiments, a reference marker may be added and its concentration analyzed before the urine is excreted into the flush water. The automated urine analysis unit can recirculate flush water between its analysis chamber and the toilet bowl to make sure the concentration of the external reference marker inside the sample chamber is the same as in the toilet bowl, and well-homogenized. Then, the excretion of urine in the toilet bowl dilutes the concentration of the reference marker, independent from whether a toilet siphon maintains the volume or not. Finally, from a second measurement, again measuring the concentration of the (now diluted) external reference marker and the urinary component(s) of interest, again the urine volume can be determined using a similar computation as performed for the prior urine volume computations yet setting the absolute amounts equal as explained further below with similar benefit as disclosed above.

[0013] In one embodiment, a system is presented wherein the inlet and outlet tubing each comprises a unique code. The unique code may be a part number or date code that may indicate the need for tubing replacement, enabling awareness of preventive maintenance to avoid or mitigate the risk of undue deterioration and possible leakage or blockage.

[0014] In one embodiment, a system is presented wherein the processor and memory are located in a device external to the analysis unit, wherein the analysis unit further comprises a communications module configured to communicate data

corresponding to the detected one or more urine components to one or more devices that include the device. For instance, the communications module may comprise wireless communications circuitry, including Bluetooth, near field communications (NFC), etc., that enables communications with a local device (e.g., smartphone, laptop, smartTV, PC, etc.). In some embodiments, the communications module may comprise a cellular modem that enables connection to devices of a carrier network and corresponding communication to one or more servers, including servers of a health or medical facility or other third part facilities (e.g., data storage facility) for the upload of the information. In some embodiments, the communications module may be hardwired to devices of a home network. The communication module hence provides a mechanism for the output of the information about the one or more urine components (and input, such as the input of individual data, including gender, weight, age), enabling a physician, nurse, or other medical professional to review for assessment of trends in the health of the corresponding individual before more serious health issues arise.

[0015] These and other aspects of the invention will be apparent from and elucidated with reference to the embodiment(s) described hereinafter.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0016] Many aspects of the invention can be better understood with reference to the following drawings, which are diagrammatic. The components in the drawings are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon clearly illustrating the principles of the present invention. Moreover, in the drawings, like reference numerals designate corresponding parts throughout the several views.

[0017] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram that illustrates an example communications environment in which a urinalysis system is used in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0018] FIG. 2A is a schematic diagram that illustrates in front perspective view a wall-mounted version of an example analysis unit in fluidic communication with a toilet bowl for a urinalysis system in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0019] FIG. 2B is a schematic diagram that illustrates in cut-away side elevation view the toilet bowl with flush water and tubing coupled to the analysis unit of FIG. 2A enabling fluidic communication with the analysis unit for a urinalysis system in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0020] FIGS. 3A-3B are schematic diagrams that illustrate in perspective views a bracket used to couple the analysis unit to a rim of a toilet bowl for a urinalysis system in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0021] FIG. 4 is a block diagram that illustrates an example analysis unit for a urinalysis system in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0022] FIG. 5 is a flow diagram that illustrates an example urinalysis method in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0023] Disclosed herein are certain embodiments of a urinalysis system and method (herein, collectively urinalysis system) that enables automated, repeated-use urinalysis for home monitoring in patients that may have chronic diseases. In one embodiment, the urinalysis system comprises a processor-based analysis unit that is separable from the toilet, an inlet tube (e.g., lumen) for transport of liquid from the toilet bowl to the analysis unit, an outlet tube (e.g., lumen) for transport of liquid from the analysis unit back to the toilet bowl, and a pump. The analysis unit may use Microchip Capillary Electrophoresis (MCE) or other urine component measurement/detection technology. Information about urine components, including concentration values of the urine components, may be determined by conversion using either a one-time calibration of the toilet flush water or concurrent measurement of an internal urine reference marker (e.g., creatinine). In some embodiments, the information about the urine components may include absolute amounts and/or volume information based on the use of external non-urine component reference markers. In some embodiments, the analysis unit may be used for detection, with data corresponding to the detected urine components provided to one or more other devices (external to the analysis unit), wherein one of the other devices comprises processing functionality to determine information about the one or more detected urine components.

[0024] Digressing briefly, and as indicated in part above, existing methods for home urinalysis take sample collections directly from the urine stream, use specialized toilet bowls for sample collection, or even use indirect methods for sample collection (e.g., using a container for intermediate use of urine collection). Direct sample collection (e.g., taken directly, mid-air, from the urinary stream) is practically difficult to perform for many patients, for instance children, the elderly, or in general, people with limited mobility or dexterity. Indirect sample collection (using a container for

intermediate urine collection) requires either the use of additional disposables or additional cleaning steps for hygienic and reliable reuse of the container. In addition, indirect sampling requires the additional step to transfer the sample from the container to the analysis unit. For systems that perform urinalysis integrated in toilet bowls, a significant investment involved in the manufacturing of the toilet and for installing a new toilet at home is a shortcoming to this approach. These approaches generally result in low adoption of home urinalysis. In contrast, one or more embodiments of a urinalysis system address the various shortcomings to the past approaches by automatically taking samples from the mixture of urine and flush water directly out of the toilet bowl, enabling the use of existing toilets and maintaining toilet routines (e.g., minimal disturbance in routines), making home urinalysis practical and enhancing patient compliance.

[0025] Having summarized certain features of a urinalysis system of the present disclosure, reference will now be made in detail to the description of urinalysis system as illustrated in the drawings. While a urinalysis system will be described in connection with these drawings, there is no intent to limit it to the embodiment or embodiments disclosed herein. For instance, as indicated above, certain embodiments of a urinalysis system are described as being based on Microchip Capillary Electrophoresis (MCE) technology. However, in some embodiments, the urinalysis system may be based on other detection/measurement technologies, for example potentiometry using ion- selective membranes for measuring mineral ions, and for example voltammetry using enzymes for detecting creatinine. Also optical spectroscopy techniques may be used to quantify various urine components, as well as pressure based liquid chromatography in combination with optical detectors, and for example nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Also, though emphasis is placed on the use of urine component information in the broader context of ensuring adherence to medication and/or assessing trends in overall renal function, it should be appreciated by one having ordinary skill in the art that other conditions that can be monitored from the urine component information, including pregnancy, may also benefit from certain

embodiments of a urinalysis system and hence are contemplated to be within the scope of the disclosure. Further, although the description identifies or describes specifics of one or more embodiments, such specifics are not necessarily part of every

embodiment, nor are all of any various stated advantages necessarily associated with a single embodiment. On the contrary, the intent is to cover all alternatives, modifications and equivalents included within the scope of the disclosure as defined by the appended claims. Further, it should be appreciated in the context of the present disclosure that the claims are not necessarily limited to the particular embodiments set out in the

description.

[0026] Note that reference to urine components includes detectable constituents of urine that may be helpful to assessment of renal function or other bodily functions or health conditions, and includes urine metabolites, mineral or electrolyte ions (CI^", NO3^", SO₄ ^2", H₂PO₄ ^" / HPO₄ ^2", NH₄ ⁺, K⁺, Na⁺, Ca²⁺, Mg²⁺), creatinine (which for pH<4.8 is positively charged or for pH>9.2 is negatively charged), proteins and other biologically active compounds. Urine components are sometimes referred to as urine biomarkers or urinary markers or at least in part urinary metabolites, all of which are contemplated to be within the scope of molecular constituents covered by urine components. Also, flush water refers to the water that pools in the toilet bowl, and includes after excretion, the urine (and hence urine components). The flush water is recirculated between the urinalysis system and the toilet bowl to ensure consistent concentrations throughout the fluid ic system.

[0027] Attention is directed to FIG. 1 , which illustrates a communications environment 10 in which a urinalysis system is used in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. It should be appreciated by one having ordinary skill in the art in the context of the present disclosure that the communications environment 10 is one example among many, and that some embodiments of a urinalysis system may be used in environments with fewer, greater, and/or different components than those depicted in FIG. 1 . The communications environment 10 comprises a plurality of devices that may enable communication of information throughout one or more networks. In other words, though the urinalysis system provides for local measurement of urine components and in some embodiments local availability of the corresponding data (e.g., feedback to the individual/patient), in some embodiments, the data (e.g., the raw, detected urine component data and/or information about the urine components) is provided to other or remote locations such as to an electronic device or server devices/computing devices that are coupled to a network (e.g., the Internet) that serve medical or insurance professionals or intervening third parties that serve medical or insurance professionals for review, analysis, or further processing. The depicted communications environment 10 comprises an analysis unit 12, an electronics device 14, a cellular network 16, a wide area network 18 (e.g., also described herein as the Internet), and a remote computing system 20 comprising one or more computing devices and/or storage devices. In one embodiment, the remote computing system 20 may be a third party platform, such as Philips' Health Suite Digital Platform (e.g., cloud- based). The analysis unit 12, as described further in association with FIGS. 2A-3B, may be mounted to a wall or on the floor, or to a toilet bowl.

[0028] The analysis unit 12 is fluidly coupled (e.g., via tubing) to the volume of flush water pooled at the lower portion of the toilet bowl. The analysis unit 12, in one embodiment, is a processor-based device that comprises urine component

detection/measurement functionality and logic (e.g., software, firmware) that enables the determination of various information (e.g., urine component concentration, absolute amounts of urine component, volume, etc.) based on the detection of urine components in the flush water. In some embodiments, the analysis unit 12 may rely on processing performed externally to the unit 12, serving to perform detection only (and/or possibly some feedback to the user). The analysis unit 12 comprises a detection module that is based on Microchip Capillary Electrophoresis (MCE) technology, though other mechanisms for analysis and/or detection/measurement of urine components may be incorporated in the analysis unit 12. The analysis unit 12 further comprises, in one embodiment, a communications module that enables the communication of the urine component information to one or more other devices and/or the receipt of data from the one or more other devices. In one embodiment, the analysis unit 12 is in communication with the electronics device 14 and/or one or more devices of the remote computing system 20. For instance, the analysis unit 12 may communicate (e.g., wirelessly, including via Bluetooth or near field communication (NFC) technology, Wireless Fidelity (WiFi) according to 802.1 1 based protocols, etc., or via a wired connection including USB) the urine component information to the electronics device 14, which in turn may present visual feedback of the information to the user and/or communicate (e.g., via a cellular wireless connection or via a wired connection, including digital subscriber line (DSL) or its variations, coaxial cable connection, etc.) the urine component information to one or more devices of the computing system 20. In some embodiments, the analysis unit 12 may communicate (e.g., securely) the urine component information directly to one or more devices of the remote computing system 20, using a wired connection and/or via cellular modem functionality of the

communications module. The communications module of the analysis unit 12 may also be configured to receive data or instructions from other devices (e.g., from the electronics device 14 or device(s) of the computing system 20). For instance, the analysis unit 12 may receive user profile information from the electronics device 14 running a health or wellness app, where the user profile information may include age, weight, height, gender, and/or an identifier (e.g., name) of the individual. In some embodiments, the user profile information may be entered directly at a user interface of the analysis unit 12, or detected using beacons, WiFi, RFID, or other coded light technology (e.g., detecting the identity automatically from a pendant, bracelet, or other tags worn or possessed by the individual). In some embodiments, the analysis unit 12 may comprise functionality that is configured in a more rudimentary or stream-lined architecture (e.g., with or without a processor, including logic gates, analog circuitry, including the MCE circuitry and a communications module) and/or limited primarily to detection of the urine components, wherein a communications module may be used to communicate the raw data (e.g., the raw data or some representation of the raw data) to another device (directly or via other communication through one or more other devices), wherein the other device performs processing to determine concentrations and/or amounts of the urine components. The communications module may enable a wireless or wired communication of the raw data (including the download of the raw data to portable storage, such as a USB device).

[0029] The electronics device 14 may be embodied as a smartphone (as depicted in this example), mobile phone, cellular phone, pager, laptop, PC, workstation, among other handheld and portable computing/communication devices. In some embodiments, the electronics device 14 is not necessarily readily portable or even portable. For instance, the electronics device 14 may be a home appliance, including a weight scale, pillbox, home monitor, stand-alone home virtual assistant, one or more of which may be coupled to devices of a home network and/or the computing system 20 via one or more networks (e.g., through the home Internet connection or telephony network). In the depicted embodiment of FIG. 1 , the electronics device 14 is a smartphone, though it should be appreciated that the electronics device 14 may take the form of other types of devices including those described above. The electronics device 14 may receive the urine component information from the analysis unit 12 and present to the user a summary (e.g., graphically and/or textually) of the measurements to the user, including medicine intake adherence. The electronics device 14 may also provide, based on the receipt of the urine component information, suggestions or recommendations to the user, including recommendations to see a physician, suggestions for food choices or vitamin intake, recommendations on exercise, sleep, among other feedback. In some embodiments, similar recommendations/suggestions may be presented to the user at a user interface of the analysis unit 12. In some embodiments, user profile information may be entered at the electronics device 14 and communicated to the analysis unit 12. In some embodiments, activation and/or control of the analysis unit 12 may be achieved via selection at the user interface of the electronics device 14. In some embodiments, the electronics device 14 communicates the urine component information to one or more devices of the computing system 20. At the computing system 20, the urine component information may be used as part of a renal function (or other physiological function) monitoring or medication adherence scheme (e.g., determining adherence by chronic patients of a medicine routine or regime). By monitoring the urine component information, early indications or trends of deteriorating conditions may prompt more scrutiny and/or intervention (e.g., from a medical professional) and prevent more serious renal issues (or other health-related issues that benefit from urinalysis) from occurring later.

[0030] The cellular network 16 may include the necessary infrastructure to enable cellular communications by the electronics device 14 and/or the analysis unit 12. There are a number of different digital cellular technologies suitable for use in the cellular network 16, including: GSM, GPRS, CDMAOne, CDMA2000, Evolution-Data Optimized (EV-DO), EDGE, Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS), Digital Enhanced Cordless Telecommunications (DECT), Digital AMPS (IS-136/TDMA), and Integrated Digital Enhanced Network (iDEN), among others.

[0031] The wide area network 18 may comprise one or a plurality of networks that in whole or in part comprise the Internet. The electronics device 14 and/or the analysis unit 12 may access one or more devices of the computing system 20 via the Internet 18, which may be further enabled through access to one or more networks including PSTN (Public Switched Telephone Networks), POTS, Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN), Ethernet, Fiber, DSL/ADSL, among others.

[0032] The computing system 20 comprises one or more devices coupled to the wide area network 18, including one or more computing devices networked together, including an application server(s) and data storage. The computing system 20 may serve as a cloud computing environment (or other server network) for the electronics device 14 and/or the analysis unit 12, performing some processing and/or data storage on behalf of (or in some embodiments, in addition to) the electronics devices 14 and/or analysis unit 12. When embodied as a cloud service or services, the device(s) of the remote computing system 20 may comprise an internal cloud, an external cloud, a private cloud, or a public cloud (e.g., commercial cloud). For instance, a private cloud may be implemented using a variety of cloud systems including, for example,

Eucalyptus Systems, VMWare vSphere®, or Microsoft® HyperV. A public cloud may include, for example, Amazon EC2®, Amazon Web Services®, Terremark®, Savvis®, or GoGrid®. Cloud-computing resources provided by these clouds may include, for example, storage resources (e.g., Storage Area Network (SAN), Network File System (NFS), and Amazon S3®), network resources (e.g., firewall, load-balancer, and proxy server), internal private resources, external private resources, secure public resources, infrastructure-as-a-services (laaSs), platform-as-a-services (PaaSs), or software-as-a- services (SaaSs). The cloud architecture of the devices of the remote computing system 20 may be embodied according to one of a plurality of different configurations. For instance, if configured according to MICROSOFT AZURE™, roles are provided, which are discrete scalable components built with managed code. Worker roles are for generalized development, and may perform background processing for a web role. Web roles provide a web server and listen for and respond to web requests via an HTTP (hypertext transfer protocol) or HTTPS (HTTP secure) endpoint. VM roles are instantiated according to tenant defined configurations (e.g., resources, guest operating system). Operating system and VM updates are managed by the cloud. A web role and a worker role run in a VM role, which is a virtual machine under the control of the tenant. Storage and SQL services are available to be used by the roles. As with other clouds, the hardware and software environment or platform, including scaling, load balancing, etc., are handled by the cloud.

[0033] In some embodiments, the devices of the remote computing system 20 may be configured into multiple, logically-grouped servers (run on server devices), referred to as a server farm. The devices of the remote computing system 20 may be geographically dispersed, administered as a single entity, or distributed among a plurality of server farms, executing one or more applications on behalf of one or more of the electronic devices 14 and/or analysis unit 12. The devices of the remote computing system 20 within each farm may be heterogeneous. One or more of the devices may operate according to one type of operating system platform (e.g., WINDOWS NT, manufactured by Microsoft Corp. of Redmond, Wash.), while one or more of the other devices may operate according to another type of operating system platform (e.g., Unix or Linux). The group of devices of the remote computing system 20 may be logically grouped as a farm that may be interconnected using a wide-area network (WAN) connection or medium-area network (MAN) connection. The devices of the remote computing system 20 may each be referred to as (and operate according to) a file server device, application server device, web server device, proxy server device, or gateway server device. The computing system 20 may be in communications with other networks, including health and/or medical networks, social networks, and/or third party networks that work in cooperation with medical and/or health facilities.

[0034] Having described an example communications environment 10 in which certain embodiments of a urinalysis system may be implemented, attention is directed to FIGS. 2A-2B, which illustrate a mounting configuration for the analysis unit 12, denoted as analysis unit 12A in FIGS. 2A-2B. It should be appreciated by one having ordinary skill in the art, in the context of the present disclosure, that variations to the depicted mounting arrangement are contemplated to be within the scope of the disclosure. Referring to FIGS. 2A-2B, shown is a toilet bowl 22 of standard

manufacture and/or design, including a pivotal (e.g., hinged) seat 24 that is configured to rest and circumscribe a rim 25 of the bowl when seated on the rim 25 (e.g., generally separated from the rim 25 underneath by spaced elastomeric or plastic mounts to provide some separation between the seat 24 and the underlying rim 25). Also shown is a lid 26 (shown upright in FIG. 2A) that is also pivotal and enables the opening to the bowl 22 to be open and closed. A lower bowl portion 28 is generally occupied internally by a pool of flush water 30, which has a level that ranges from maximum pool before flush to zero or near zero level (e.g., empty) during a flush operation. Omitted from FIGS. 2A-2B is a cistern, from which water enters from a main line, pools, and is released into the lower bowl portion 28 and then re-filled from the main line after the flush with fresh water. As operations of conventional toilet bowls such as that depicted in FIGS. 2A-2B are known, further discussion of the same is omitted here for brevity.

[0035] Referring in particular to FIG. 2A, shown is an example analysis unit 12A. The analysis unit 12A is depicted with a user interface comprising an activation button 32 and one or more status lights 34 (three (3) shown in this example) located on a front face 35 of the unit 12A. The activation button 32 may comprise an electromechanical switch that the user depresses to activate the analysis unit 12A. For instance, by depressing the activation button 32, the analysis unit 12A commences operation of a pump located internal to the analysis unit 12A. The pump in turn recirculates the flush water 30 between the lower bowl portion 28 and the analysis unit 12A, ensuring consistent concentrations of the urine components among the analysis unit 12A and the toilet bowl 22 (and consistent concentrations of any added reference markers). The status lights 34 may comprise light-emitting diodes (LEDs) of different colors. For instance, a green light may indicate the analysis unit 12A is operating (e.g., performing the task of detection and concentration or absolute amount determinations), a red light may indicate malfunction with the analysis unit 12A or excessive back pressure (e.g., clogged tubing), and a yellow light may indicate the need for servicing (e.g., battery replacement, tubing replacement based on unique code, which may have a different work-lifetime depending on the conditions to be monitored, etc.). As indicated above, in some embodiments, the user interface may comprise fewer, additional, or different components, or in some embodiments, the message or information these status lights 34 are intended to convey may be presented at another device (e.g., the electronic device 14, FIG. 1 ). In some embodiments, a single status light may be used, with a difference in blink frequency or intensity indicating different status information. In some embodiments, the activation button 32 and/or the status lights 34 may be replaced (or complemented) with a touch-type display screen or other types of display screens (e.g., not touch-type). For instance, the user interface may enable user input via the tough- type display screen or a keyboard. In some embodiments, the user interface of the analysis unit 12A may comprise a microphone and/or speaker, where feedback and/or information entry may be achieved audibly. In some embodiments, a user interface may be omitted (e.g., automatic detection of urine excretion and/or use of a user interface via another device, such as the electronic device 14 (FIG. 1 ) for feedback and/or input).

[0036] In some embodiments, the analysis unit 12A may comprise optical detection functionality to enable a determination or inference of when urine excretion is complete or about to begin and/or for providing an identification of the user, among other functions. In some embodiments, communication functionality of the analysis unit 12A may receive input from a sensor (e.g., load sensor) placed beneath the seat 24, wherein the presence of a user may be automatically determined based on a signal from the sensor, and in some embodiments, an identity of the user determined from the measured weight. In some embodiments, other and/or additional sensors may be in communication with the analysis unit 12A to provide assistance in automatically determining an event of urine excretion and/or identification of the user (e.g., a camera and facial recognition software, microphone to detect the sound of urine

commencement and completion).

[0037] The analysis unit 12A is shown in FIG. 2A mounted to a wall 36 in close proximity to the toilet bowl 22. For instance, the analysis unit 12A may be mounted directly to the wall using any manner of securement (e.g., screw, bolt, etc.) attaching the body of the analysis unit 12A to the wall 36, or in some embodiments, secured indirectly to the wall 36 using an intermediate bracket or backing, such as found with common wall thermostats. In some embodiments, the analysis unit 12A is mounted to the floor.

[0038] The analysis unit 12A is in fluidic communication with the flush water 30 in the lower bowl portion 28 via tubing 38. In the depicted embodiment, the tubing 38 is positioned over the rim 25 (with a narrow enough diameter to be positioned underneath the seat 24), though in some embodiments, may be positioned otherwise (e.g., over the seat 24) depending on the toilet bowl design (e.g., where there is no or insufficient clearance between the seat 24 and the rim 25). The tubing 38 may be configured in one embodiment as multi-lumen tubing. For instance, a single outer tube may comprise a centrally disposed inner tube for enabling ingress of flush water, where egress of water back to the toilet bowl 22 is achieved via fluid flow in the space between the inner tubing and outer tubing (or vice versa). Other configurations of multi-lumen tubing may be used. In some embodiments, separate ingress and egress tubing (i.e., not packaged within a single tube) may be used. In some embodiments, the tubing may comprise a unique code. For instance, a unique code (e.g., serial number, part number, date code, etc.) may be used to enable the user to determine whether tubing replacement is warranted, maintaining a controlled lifetime for the tubing 38. In some embodiments, code detection functionality (e.g., RFID reader and RFID code) may be implemented, where the analysis unit 12A may comprise an optical reader/scanner that monitors the RFID code on the tubing 38 and alert the user (e.g., via the status lights 34, display screen message, buzzer or beeper, etc.) the need for replacement. As best depicted in FIG. 2B, a portion of the tubing 38 is submerged in the pool of flush water 30 in the lower bowl portion 28. By virtue of this arrangement, the tubing 38 comprises inlet tubing (or lumen) for transport of flush water 30 from the toilet bowl 22 to the analysis unit 12A and outlet tubing (or lumen) for transport of the flush water 30 from the analysis unit 12A back to the toilet bowl 22. As used herein, inlet and outlet tubing refers to inlet and outlet lumen or separately packaged inlet and outlet tubing. The flush water is recirculated between the analysis unit 12A and the toilet bowl 22 via a pump of the analysis unit 12A. The use of inlet and outlet tubing 38 enables the recirculation of the flush water 30 between the toilet bowl 22 and the analysis unit 12A, ensuring that the concentration of urinary components (and reference markers) inside the analysis unit 12A and toilet bowl 22 become equal, both in case urine is present in the toilet bowl, as well as during and after flushing such that also the analysis chamber will be rinsed.

[0039] In FIG. 2B, the toilet bowl 22 further comprises a siphon 39. The siphon 39 comprises a curved tube with an overflow barrier located as shown. In the depicted example, the flush water level is at its maximum value, reaching the overflow barrier. The overflow barrier ensures that a maximum volume of water is present inside the bowl (and siphon tubing). In general, hydrostatics dictates that the water level in the bowl is equal to that inside the siphon 39. When urine is added to the bowl, the level inside the siphon 39 should rise until the maximum, after which the flush water will overflow. Typically the volume of water is maintained in this way. However, even if the toilet bowl 22 has not been used for prolonged time, and by evaporation the level is reduced below the siphon-dictated maximum, the disclosed method of dual

concentration measurements (e.g., before and after urine excretion) as explained below is still operational.

[0040] Referring now to FIGS. 3A-3B, shown are schematic diagrams that illustrate in perspective view an example bracket 40 used to couple an analysis unit 12B to a toilet bowl 22 for a urinalysis system in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. The analysis unit 12B is similar to the analysis unit of FIGS. 2A-2B, but with the user interface disposed at a top edge 41 of the analysis unit 12B as opposed to the front face 35 of the analysis unit 12A given the challenges evident in readily observing the user interface in a bowl-mounted configuration for this orientation. The bracket 40 is shaped in a hook-like configuration, where the inside surface of the hook rests upon the rim 25 in a snug, conformal-fit fashion to prevent or resist inadvertent movement of the bracket 40. In some embodiments, an adhesive may be applied between the top of the rim 25 and the bottom surface of the bracket 40 to further secure the bracket to the rim 25. The tubing 38 is coupled to the top of the analysis unit 12B, as opposed to being coupled at the bottom of the analysis unit 12A (FIG. 3A). The tubing 38 abuts the top surface of the bracket 40 throughout (or substantially throughout) the span of length that the tubing 38 and bracket 40 are adjacent to each other, following the shape of the bracket 40 as it extends to the flush water within the toilet bowl 22. Note that variations for providing a bowl-mount configuration may be used in some embodiments, including mounting the analysis unit 12B to the toilet bowl 22 using suction cups, (re-) adhesive strips, glue or a clamping force with the toilet seat.

[0041] With continued reference to FIGS. 2A-3B, one example of general operation for the analysis unit 12 (e.g., 12A, 12B) comprises an optional preliminary step of the analysis unit 12 pumping toilet liquid (e.g., flush water) into an analysis chamber of the analysis unit 12 for a reference measurement of flush water. This action may be prompted by the user during initial start-up or at other times prior to excretion of urine into the toilet bowl 22. Sometime thereafter, the user excretes urine into the toilet bowl. The analysis unit 12 pumps toilet (flush) water to the internal analysis chamber for analysis of one or multiple urine components. For instance, the user may press the activation button 32 to prompt the activation of the analysis unit 12 (e.g., and thus activation of the pump to recirculate the excreted urine in the toilet flush water to ensure even concentrations of the urine components and reference markers amongst the toilet bowl flush water and the flush water in the analysis unit 12), or command the analysis unit 12 to commence operations indirectly by activating the analysis unit 12 through an app running on the electronic device 14 (FIG. 1 ), the electronic device 14 communicating the user's command to the analysis unit 12. In some embodiments, the analysis unit 12 may sense that the urine has been excreted into the toilet bowl 22. For instance, a microphone in the analysis unit 12, disposed in or around the toilet bowl 22, or in the electronic device 14 that the individual carries into the bathroom, may detect the start and completion of the urine excretion, and based on the determined completion, the analysis unit 12 may automatically activate the pump. The user may then flush the toilet, and during or after flushing, the analysis unit 12 pumps the toilet water (flush water) through the analysis chamber to rinse out the chamber.

[0042] Attention is now directed to FIG. 4, which illustrates an example analysis unit 12C for a urinalysis system in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. The analysis unit 12C may be the same or similar to the analysis units 12, 12A, and 12B of FIGS. 1 -3B. One having ordinary skill in the art should appreciate in the context of the present disclosure that the example analysis unit 12C is merely illustrative of one embodiment, and that some embodiments of the analysis unit may comprise fewer or additional components, and/or some of the functionality associated with the various components depicted in FIG. 4 may be combined, or further distributed among additional modules or devices, in some embodiments. The analysis unit 12C is depicted in this example as a having a computer system architecture. In some embodiments, the analysis unit may be configured with a more rudimentary architecture of analog circuitry or logic gates with or without a processor, such as for the performance of detection of urine components locally and remote and/or external processing (e.g., using collectively a remote and/or external memory with code and a processor executing the code) to obtain information about the urine components. It should be appreciated that certain well-known components of computer systems are omitted here to avoid obfuscating relevant features of the analysis unit 12C. In one embodiment, the analysis unit 12C comprises a processing circuit 42 (PROCESS CKT) that comprises hardware and/or software. In the depicted embodiment, the processing circuit 42 comprises one or more processors, such as processor 44 (PROCESS), a communications module (COMM) 46, a user interface (Ul) 48, a detection module (DM) 50, and memory 52 (MEM), all coupled to one or more data busses, such as data bus (DBUS) 54. The memory 52 may include any one or a combination of volatile memory elements (e.g., random-access memory RAM, such as DRAM, and SRAM, etc.) and nonvolatile memory elements (e.g., ROM, Flash, solid state, EPROM, EEPROM, hard drive, tape, CDROM, etc.). The memory 52 may store a native operating system, one or more native applications, emulation systems, or emulated applications for any of a variety of operating systems and/or emulated hardware platforms, emulated operating systems, etc. [0043] In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 4, the memory 52 comprises an operating system 56 (OS), and application software 58 (APP SW). Although described as residing in the analysis unit 12C, in some embodiments, one or more of the functionality of the application software 58, as described below, may be performed at, or distributed among, other or multiple devices (e.g., the analysis unit 12C and the electronic device 14 and/or remote computing system 20, FIG. 1 ). In one embodiment, the application software 58 comprises executable code/instructions that include a sampling analysis module (SAM) 60 and a communications control module (CCM) 62. In some embodiments, additional software may include graphical user interface (GUI) software, optical code reading software (e.g., RFID software), and/or image and/or voice recognition software. The sampling analysis module 60 comprises executable code/instructions for sequencing pump activation, urine component detection, and consequent analysis of the results from the detection. The sampling analysis module 60 controls operations of the detection module 50 and the pump based on input from the communications module 46, the user interface 48, or other input (e.g., sensor input). The sampling analysis module 60 is described further below. In some embodiments, the sampling analysis module 60 may be omitted, and the detection module 50 (and pump) may be activated by virtue of a remote-controlled, or locally- activated, switch, or in some embodiments, the detection module 50 may comprise its own controller running embedded code. The communications control module 62 comprises executable code/instructions to enable communications circuitry of the communications module 46 to operate according to one or more of a plurality of different communication technologies (e.g., NFC, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, including 802.1 1 , GSM, LTE, CDMA, WCDMA, Zigbee, etc.). The communications control module 62 formats for delivery (e.g., packetization, encoding, encryption, etc.) urine component information and instructs and/or controls the communications module 46 to transmit the formatted urine component information to the computing system 20 (e.g., directly via the cellular network 16, or indirectly via the electronics device 14) and/or to the electronics device 14. In some embodiments, the communications control module 62 also decodes data received from the computing system 20 and/or electronics device 14 and stores the data in memory 52 for later access and display or for implementing operations at the analysis unit 12C. In some embodiments, the communications control module 62 may also include browser software in some embodiments to enable Internet connectivity. In some embodiments, the communications control module 62 may be omitted and replaced with like-functionality embedded within the communications module 46, or in some embodiments, communication of data may be achieved via the communications module 46 configured as a data interface (e.g., USB connector) or via a less sophisticated architecture that omits a processor and relies on hardware circuitry (e.g., RF transceiver circuitry).

[0044] Execution of the application software 58 and associated modules 60-62 may be implemented by the processor 44 under the management and/or control of the operating system 56. The processor 44 may be embodied as a custom-made or commercially available processor, a central processing unit (CPU) or an auxiliary processor among several processors, a semiconductor based microprocessor (in the form of a microchip), a macroprocessor, one or more application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), a plurality of suitably configured digital logic gates, and/or other well- known electrical configurations comprising discrete elements both individually and in various combinations to coordinate the overall operation of the analysis unit 12C.

[0045] The communications module 46, in one embodiment, comprises hardware and/or software to enable communications with other devices according to the instructions from the communications control module 62. For instance, the

communications module 46 serves to enable wireless communications between the analysis unit 12C and other devices, including the electronics device 14 and/or device(s) of the computing system 20, among other devices. The communications module 46 is depicted as comprising a Bluetooth circuit, though not limited to this transceiver configuration. For instance, in some embodiments, the communications module 46 may be embodied as any one or a combination of an NFC circuit, Wi-Fi circuit, transceiver circuitry based on Zigbee, 802.1 1 , GSM, LTE, CDMA, WCDMA, among others such as optical or ultrasonic based technologies, or other types of radio frequency (RF) transceiver circuitry of less sophisticated (non-processor-based) architectures. The communications module 46 also enables wired communications in some embodiments, such as wired communications compliant to file transfer protocol (FTP), HTML, HTTPS, etc. In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 4, the communications module 46 comprises a transmitter circuit (TX CKT), a switch (SW), an antenna, a receiver circuit (RX CKT), a mixing circuit (MIX), and a frequency hopping controller (HOP CTL). The transmitter circuit and the receiver circuit comprise components suitable for providing respective transmission and reception of an RF signal, including a modulator/demodulator, filters, and amplifiers. The switch switches between receiving and transmitting modes. The mixing circuit may be embodied as a frequency synthesizer and frequency mixers, as controlled by the processor 44. The frequency hopping controller controls the hopping frequency of a transmitted signal based on feedback from a modulator of the transmitter circuit. In some embodiments,

functionality for the frequency hopping controller may be implemented by the processor 44. Control for the communications module 46 may be implemented by the processor 44 executing the communications control module 62. In some embodiments, the communications module 46 may have its own dedicated controller that is supervised and/or managed by the processor 44, or in some embodiments, using less

sophisticated architectures, activated via a switch or continually operational in some embodiments.

[0046] Though the communications module 46 is depicted as an IF-type transceiver, in some embodiments, a direct conversion architecture may be

implemented. As noted above, the communications module 46 may be embodied according to other and/or additional transceiver technologies.

[0047] The user interface 48 may comprise one or more status lights 34 (FIG. 2A and the activation button 32 (FIG. 2A), or in some embodiments, may comprise in addition to, or in lieu of the status lights 34 and/or activation button 32, a display screen of a touch-type configuration for the presentation of the status of the analysis unit operations (e.g., currently activated, off, replace battery warning, replace or unblock tubing warning, etc.), information about the urine components (e.g., concentrations, absolute amounts, etc.), and/or feedback from another device. For instance, the display screen may provide a summary of the information and/or recommendations (communicated from the remote computing system 20, FIG. 1 , directly or via the electronics device 14, FIG. 1 ) based on the information, including recommendations to see a doctor, feedback of adherence to taking certain medications, recommendations to adhere to a particular diet, among other recommendations, suggestions, and/or feedback. Further, the display screen may enable user input, such as entry of user profile information (e.g., age, weight, gender, height, identifier (e.g., name) of the individual(s) that will use the urinalysis system, etc.). The display screen of the analysis unit 12C, similar to a display screen of the electronics device 14, may be embodied in one of several available technologies, including LCD or Liquid Crystal Display (or variants thereof, such as Thin Film Transistor (TFT) LCD, In Plane Switching (IPS) LCD)), light-emitting diode (LED)-based technology, such as organic LED (OLED), Active-Matrix OLED (AMOLED), or retina or haptic-based technology. As noted above, some of the feedback and/or information described above may be presented at a user interface (e.g., display screen, audibly, etc.) of the electronics device 14.

[0048] In the depicted embodiment, the detection module 50 is configured as a Microchip Capillary Electrophoresis unit that is operated under the control of the processor 44 (executing instructions of the sample analysis module 60). For instance, the detection module 50 may be configured as a lab-on-a-chip (LOC) technology. In some embodiments, the detection module 50 may operate independently of sample analysis module 60 (e.g., sample analysis module 60 omitted) and/or the processor 44, as described above, and/or in some embodiments, controlled externally (via

communicated instructions and/or signals from a device external to the analysis unit 12C). The detection module 50 comprises a chamber having a medium (e.g., capillary tube, though in some embodiments, other media may be used) that is coupled to reservoirs containing the toilet flush water and enables migration of urine components between the reservoirs, and electrodes coupled to the reservoirs that are polarized based on a voltage source (V) to influence the migration of the urine components. The chamber also comprises an inlet port that receives a minute sampling of the flush water via the coupled tubing 38 (e.g., 38A) for deposit in the chamber and an outlet port for discharge of the sampled flush water for eventual release via the tubing 38 (e.g., 38B) to the toilet flush water. Note that inlet tubing 38A and outlet tubing 38B may be embodied within a single, multi-lumen tubing, or in some embodiments, implemented using separate tubing (not collectively packaged within a single tube). The detection module 50 further comprises a pump 51 for the recirculation of the toilet flush water between the chamber and the toilet bowl. The detection module 50 comprises a detector (D). In one embodiment, the detector may comprise a conductivity detector, for instance using capacitively-coupled, contactless conductivity detection (C4D) technology. Alternatively the detection module 50 may use an optical detection principle, and in that case comprises a source of electromagnetic radiation (e.g., laser light, etc.) used to irradiate the capillary tube, and the detector (e.g., CMOS sensors, etc.) that receives the reflected light from the capillary tube. The detection module 50 further comprises a signal processing module (P), which may include a photomultiplier tube (PMT), filters, diodes, etc., which further process the signal to provide intensity values as a function of distance or time. Optional features of the detection module 50 include a reference marker injector (R) that adds (e.g., releases from an internal container) upon or during pump activation reference marker(s) into the toilet flush water as instructed by the processor 44 or otherwise controlled/activated (e.g., before, during, or after urine excretion) by another component (switch) or external device. In some embodiments, the reference markers may be added to the toilet flush water directly by the individual. As Microchip Capillary Electrophoresis is known, further discussion of the same is omitted here for brevity. It should be appreciated by one having ordinary skill in the art that other urine component analysis techniques may be used, including ion-selective potentiometry, electrochemical methods, photometry, etc.

[0049] The analysis unit 2C further comprises a power source (PS), which may include a battery (e.g., rechargeable battery), or in some embodiments, a voltage converter hardwired to A C voltage, among others.

[0050] When certain embodiments of the analysis unit 12C are implemented at least in part with software (including firmware), as depicted in FIG. 4, it should be noted that the software (e.g., including the application software 58 and associated modules 60-62 and the operating system 56) can be stored on a variety of non-transitory computer-readable medium for use by, or in connection with, a variety of computer- related systems or methods. In the context of this document, a computer-readable medium may comprise an electronic, magnetic, optical, or other physical device or apparatus that may contain or store a computer program (e.g., executable code or instructions) for use by or in connection with a computer-related system or method. The software may be embedded in a variety of computer-readable mediums for use by, or in connection with, an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device, such as a computer-based system, processor-containing system, or other system that can fetch the instructions from the instruction execution system, apparatus, or device and execute the instructions.

[0051] When certain embodiments of the analysis unit 12C are implemented at least in part with hardware, such functionality may be implemented with any or a combination of the following technologies, which are all well-known in the art: a discrete logic circuit(s) having logic gates for implementing logic functions upon data signals, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) having appropriate combinational logic gates, a programmable gate array(s) (PGA), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), relays, contactors, etc.

[0052] Having described an example architecture for the analysis unit 12C, further description of example sampling operations of the detection module 50, for instance under the control of the sampling analysis module 60, follows. As set forth above, the analysis unit 12C can determine the concentration of one or more urine components present in the urine sample. However the concentration of these makers is affected by the dilution of the urine in the flush water present in the toilet bowl (and somewhat by the water in the tubing 38 and the analysis unit 12C). To convert the obtained concentrations found in the analysis unit 12C to concentrations in the original urine, three methods may be used. In one embodiment, a one-time calibration of the dilution ratio may be performed, for instance by depositing (e.g., automatically via the reference marker injector R of the detection module 50 or via user addition) calibration liquid with a known concentration of a urine component into the toilet. The processor 44 computes the dilution factor by dividing the obtained concentration determined from the analysis unit 12C by the known reference concentration.

[0053] Another method is using a creatinine concentration measurement as an internal urine reference marker. Digressing briefly, for many urine components, the clinically optimal (healthy) range is known and expressed as 24-hour excretion values (typically in mmol/24 hour or mgram/24 hour). A formal way to measure 24-hour excretion levels is to collect all urine of a patient generated in twenty-four (24) hours, determine the total volume of the urine and urine component concentration levels, and multiply these to obtain 24-hour excretion levels. However, 24-hour urine collection places a huge burden on patients. In clinical practice, the 24-hour excretion values are often estimated from morning urine samples, using what is referred to as the Kawasaki equation expressed in Eqn 1 below (see, e.g., Kawasaki 1993 - "A simple method for estimating 24h urinary sodium and potassium excretion from second morning voiding urine specimen in adults."). The Kawasaki equation requires measurement of the concentration of the urine component of interest (in this case Na⁺, but for K⁺ and others similar equations are known) and measured concentration of creatinine metabolite (as internal sample reference) and an estimation of the daily creatinine excretion, based on patient sex, weight, height and age. Thus, an established correlation in the field of urinalysis is the Kawasaki equation, reproduced below (and denoted Eqn1 ):

^• N_{creatininei24h}

[0054] Using this equation, the ratio of the urine component (in this case sodium Na⁺) concentration with creatinine reference concentration is used. Since both concentrations are diluted with the same unknown factor, this cancels out. Note that NNa+,24h is in mmol Na+/day, the bracketed variables are a ratio of the measured morning urine concentrations of Na⁺ and creatinine (which include muscle waste product with constant metabolism), and N_creatinine,24h is in mmol creatinine/day, which is not measured but rather an estimated value based on the following equations:

Ncreatinine, 24h,maie ^a 0.134 x weight + 0.065 x height - 0.1 12 x age - 0.706;

Ncreatinine, 24 ,femaie ^a 0.076 x weight + 0.045 x height - 0.042 x age - 0.663.

[0055] In some embodiments, the user profile information (e.g., gender, weight, height, age, etc.) may be entered directly at the analysis unit 12C, the electronic device 14 (FIG. 1 ), or downloaded from a device of the computing system 20 upon synch-up. It is noted that dilution of the reference markers in toilet flush water does not lead to detection problems. The typical concentration for both the mineral (electrolyte) urine markers and the creatinine exceeds 1 millimol per liter. That means that even dilution with a factor 10 of urine in the toilet bowl flush water leads to a minimum marker concentration of 100 micromol per liter, which is a concentration value that is still far above the detection threshold of, say, Microchip Capillary Electrophoresis technology (which is about 1 -10 micromol per liter). Note that simultaneous determination of Na⁺ and creatinine concentrations in urine is possible using the Capillary Electrophoresis technique (in addition to measurements performed by the assignee of the present disclosure, see, e.g., Xu 1994 - "Simultaneous determination of urinary creatinine, calcium other inorganic cations by CZE."). The above described sampling methods using an internal reference marker provides a beneficial approach to minimize the burden of urine sample collection by sampling directly and automatically from the toilet bowl via tubing and a pump. Such an approach allows the use of existing toilets and maintaining toilet routines, making home urinalysis practical and enhances patient compliance.

[0056] Though example sampling operations of the detection module 50 under the control of the sampling analysis module 60 have been described in the context of internal reference markers, certain embodiments of a urinalysis system may utilize external reference markers as part of the determination of urine component information. The prior embodiments dealt with the unknown dilution factor of the urine in toilet flush water by determining concentration measurements of the urine components based on a reference to overcome the unknown dilution factor of urine in the toilet flush water. One approach to address this unknown dilution factor is to use correlations with an internal reference marker in the urine (like the Kawasaki equation using creatinine as

reference). Advantageously, the Kawasaki equation even yields 24-hour excretion, which is desirable for clinical reference. In contrast, the external reference marker comprises a known substance amount of marker compound, either in solid form (e.g., pill or powder), or liquid form as a droplet, that is added to the urine sample (e.g., automatically via the reference marker injector or manually by the user). The reference marker compound is selected such that it can be measured simultaneously with, but distinguished from, the urine components. By the sample analysis module 60 relating the measured reference marker concentration to the known substance amount added, the unknown dilution factor of urine in the toilet flush water is circumvented, and absolute excretion levels of the urine components (e.g., in mmol or mgram inside the urine sample) can be determined.

[0057] Explaining further, the external reference marker can be added to the urine, for example, in the form of a pill, liquid (droplet), or powder manually added into the toilet bowl by the patient, before, during or after the urine is excreted into the bowl. In some embodiments, the pill, powder, droplet, or generally the marker in liquid form may be automatically added by the analysis unit 12C (or under the control of the analysis unit 12C, such as from a discharge container in the bowl). For instance, if the external reference marker is in the form of a droplet, the droplet(s) may be

automatically released by the analysis unit 12C, for instance pumped via the tubing into the toilet bowl. The marker substance is thoroughly mixed with the toilet flushing water containing the urine inside the bowl. For instance, thorough mixing may be achieved by incorporating an effervescent material inside the pill, or for instance, by creating convection in the toilet bowl by circulating liquid to and from the analysis unit 12C via the tubing 38. The substance of the external reference marker should be chosen such that environmental hazards are minimized, no precipitates are formed, and

distinguishable from the urine components. For instance, if the urine components of interest are cations, for instance K⁺ and/or Na⁺, then other cations like Li⁺, Rb⁺ or Cs⁺ can be used as external reference markers. To improve mixing, the Li⁺, for instance, can be supplied as carbonate, mixed with dried citric acid. Upon release into a watery environment, these components react quickly and release CO2 in effect mixing the solution by effervescence and dispersing the Li⁺ homogeneously. If the urine components of interest are anions, then acetate, nitrate (NO3 ), bromide (Br^") or a hypochlorite (CIO^") solution, for instance, can be used as the external reference markers.

[0058] In one embodiment, an external reference marker is added and the urinalysis system analyzes the flush water containing the marker. If both the concentrations of the urine component and external reference marker are measured, the absolute excretion of the urine component (e.g., the total amount of substance of urine component in the excreted urine) can be determined by the sample analysis module 60 by computing the following (Eqn 2):

[0059] Note that V_f is the total fluid volume (liters) inside the toilet bowl (which is unknown), N_r is the known amount of substance of external reference marker (in mol), N_u is the amount of substance (in mol) of urine component in the excreted urine (which is unknown), c_{u m} is the measured concentration of urine component in the sample (in mol/liter), and c_r,m is the measured concentration of the external reference marker in the sample (in mol/liter). One advantage of this embodiment is that absolute urine component excretion is easily quantified, even in situations of unknown volume dilution inside the toilet bowl, and even for urine components where no correlation with internal reference markers is known. This embodiment provides a huge benefit and enabler for the method of sampling urine directly from the toilet bowl, which may be a breakthrough in enabling home urinalysis for monitoring applications. In addition, even for urine components that have known correlations to internal urinary reference markers, adding an external reference marker is advantageous.

[0060] Since the immediately-above described embodiment enables the sample analysis module 60 to determine the amount of substance (not concentration), the ratio of measured concentrations (urine component of interest vs internal reference marker) may be replaced in the aforementioned Kawasaki equation by their ratio of substance amount. Then, the Kawasaki equation may be simplified as follows (making use of the fact that creatinine is produced at a constant rate, independent of circadian rhythm) (Eqn 3):

[0061] The above equation (Eqn 3) enables easier conversion to 24-hour excretion levels for Na⁺, K⁺ (and possibly other urine components for which the creatinine correlation is known), because the creatinine concentration measurement is no longer required. It is replaced by a urine accumulation time, equal to time between two consecutive toilet visits, which can be tracked by the analysis unit 12C in the home situation. [0062] In another embodiment of the urinalysis system, two external reference markers are added to the bowl, once before and once after urine excretion, and analyzed simultaneously (e.g., both markers and the substance(s) of interest are analyzed after excretion). Assuming a constant liquid volume inside the toilet bowl, then by using two external reference markers, the urine volume can be quantified. If two external reference markers (of different chemical species) are added to the toilet bowl, one (#1 ) before urine excretion, and allowed time to mix via recirculation, and the other (#2) added after urine excretion, then the urine component(s) amount in the urine, the urine component(s) concentration in urine, and the urine volume can all be computed by the processor 44 executing the sample analysis module 60 according to the following equations: cr, l,m

[0063]

N_u = N_r>1

C r, L,m (Eqn 4)

[0064] u

m ^Τ .Ί .ΎΠ fEan

[0065]

cr,2,m (Eqn 6)

[0066]

N ¹ *u

[0067] Note that V_f is the total fluid volume (in liters) inside the toilet bowl (which is constant but unknown), V_u is the volume (in liters) of excreted urine (which is unknown), N_r 1 is the amount of substance (in mol) of external reference marker #1 added before urine excretion, N_{r 2} is the amount of substance (in mol) of external reference marker #2 added after urine excretion, N_u is the amount of substance (in mol) of urine component in the excreted urine (which is unknown), c_{u m} is the measured concentration (in mol/liter) of urine component in the sample, c_r,i ,_m is the measured concentration (in mol/liter) of external reference marker #1 in the sample, and c_r,2_{, m} is the measured concentration (in mol/liter) of external reference marker #2 in the sample. A difference between external reference markers #1 and #2 is that the concentration of external reference marker #1 is diluted by the urine volume added afterwards, while external reference marker #2 is not diluted by the urine. If the external reference markers #1 and #2 consist of different compounds that can be distinguished from each other, and from the urine components of interest, then in a single measurement by the detection module 50 (e.g., under the control of the sample analysis module 60 using, for instance, Microchip Capillary Electrophoresis, the concentrations of external reference markers #1 , #2 and the urine component(s) can be determined

simultaneously. An additional benefit over the prior embodiment is that, additionally, the urine volume can be determined. This urine volume is a valuable parameter to monitor in itself. An added benefit is that the individual (e.g., patient) is not burdened with having to weigh, read and enter the urine volume, and clean the weighing container afterwards. In at least one embodiment, the only thing the patient has to do is add two external reference markers before and after urinating, and in some embodiments, that procedure may be automated by the analysis unit 12C, for instance by pumping dosed liquid drops to the toilet bowl via the tubing 38.

[0068] In another embodiment, the urinalysis system may operate by adding one external reference marker to the bowl before urine excretion, with the analysis performed before and after urine excretion. As a variant to the previous external reference marker embodiments, the urinalysis system may work by adding (e.g., manually or automatically) an external reference marker and analyze its concentration before the urine is excreted into the toilet bowl. For instance, automation may be implemented by the analysis unit 12C (e.g., the pump) recirculating flush water between its analysis chamber and the toilet bowl to ensure the concentration of the external reference marker inside the sample chamber is the same as in the toilet bowl, and well- homogenized. Then, the excretion of urine into the toilet bowl dilutes the concentration of the external reference marker, independent from whether the toilet siphon maintains the volume or not. Finally, from a second measurement by the detection module 50, again measuring the concentration of the (now diluted) external reference marker and the urine component of interest, again the urine volume can be computed by the processor 44 (executing the sample analysis module 60) using Eqn 5 except setting Ν_Γ,ι=Ν_Γι2.

[0069] Although various embodiments for computing the urine component amount of concentrations have been described above, it should be appreciated by one having ordinary skill in the art, in the context of the present disclosure, that the analysis unit 12C (and 12, 12A, and 12B) can use any combination of the disclosed

embodiments. Further, though detection and determination are described primarily as being achieved at the analysis unit 12, in some embodiments, detection may be achieved locally and determination of information achieved externally to the analysis unit 12.

[0070] Further, though described using the analysis unit 12C in a direct sampling mechanism, certain elements of a urinalysis system may be beneficially used in isolation of the direct sampling mechanisms. For instance, as to the sampling techniques using an external reference marker, similar principles may be applied to the sampling from a container, whereby an external reference marker is added to the urine and analyzed simultaneously with beneficial result. For instance, if the urine excretion is fully collected in a container, and an external reference marker is added to the container before, after or during the urine excretion, then from the analysis of the reference marker concentration, the urine volume (and absolute urine component excretion) can be determined automatically according to the following equations:

r.m (Eqn 8) [0071]

N_u = Ν_τ ^

(Eqn 9)

[0072] Note that Vu is the volume (in liters) of excreted urine in the container (which is unknown), Nr is the known amount of substance (in mol) of the external reference marker, Nu is the amount of substance (in mol) of the urine component(s) in the sample (which is unknown), cu,m is the measured concentration of urine

component (in mol/liter) of the urine component in the sample, and cr,m is the measured concentration of the external reference marker (in mol/liter) in the sample. One benefit to this approach is that the urine volume is a valuable parameter to monitor, and the patient is not burdened with having to weigh, read and enter the urine volume. The external reference marker compound may be integrated into a disposable urine container, to dissolve after the addition of urine.

[0073] Having described various features of certain embodiments of a urinalysis system, it should be appreciated that one embodiment of a urinalysis method, denoted as method 64 and illustrated in FIG. 5, comprises recirculating flush water between a toilet bowl and an analysis unit fluidly coupled to the toilet bowl (66); and detecting one or more urine components from the recirculated flush water (68). In some embodiments, the method further includes determining information about the detected one or more urine components based on an internal or external reference marker added to the flush water.

[0074] Any process descriptions or blocks in the flow diagram described above should be understood as representing modules, segments, or portions of code which include one or more executable instructions for implementing specific logical functions or steps in the process, and alternate implementations are included within the scope of an embodiment of the present invention in which functions may be executed

substantially concurrently, and/or additional logical functions or steps may be added, depending on the functionality involved, as would be understood by those reasonably skilled in the art of the present invention. [0075] In an embodiment, a claim to a urinalysis system for a toilet bowl is presented, the system comprising: an inlet tube arranged to be at least partially submerged in flush water of the toilet bowl; an outlet tube; and an analysis unit coupled to the inlet and outlet tubes, the analysis unit comprising: a pump configured to recirculate the flush water through the toilet bowl, the inlet tube, the analysis unit, and the outlet tube; and a detection module configured to detect one or more urine components in the recirculated flush water.

[0076] In an embodiment, a urinalysis system claim according to the preceding claim is presented that further comprises a memory configured with executable code; and a processor configured by the executable code to determine information about the one or more detected urine components based on an internal or external reference marker added to the flush water.

[0077] In an embodiment, a urinalysis system claim according to any one of the preceding system claims is presented, wherein the information comprises a respective concentration of the one or more urine components, wherein the processor is configured by the executable code to determine the respective concentration by estimating a dilution factor based on a known concentration of a reference marker recirculated with the flush water, the reference marker comprising a calibration liquid.

[0078] In an embodiment, a urinalysis system claim according to any one of the preceding system claims is presented, wherein the information comprises a respective concentration of the one or more urine components, wherein the processor is configured by the executable code to determine the respective concentration based on an internal reference marker concentration.

[0079] In an embodiment, a urinalysis system claim according to any one of the preceding system claims is presented, wherein the internal reference marker comprises creatinine.

[0080] In an embodiment, a urinalysis system claim according to any one of the preceding system claims is presented, wherein the processor is further configured by the executable code to determine the information about the one or more urine components based on a computation by the processor involving an external reference marker concentration, the external reference marker added to the flush water at one time or at two times separated by an event.

[0081] In an embodiment, a urinalysis system claim according to any one of the preceding system claims is presented, wherein for each of the one or more urine components, the information comprises a total amount of the urine component, wherein the total amount consists of an absolute amount of the urine component that is computed based on an absolute amount of the external reference marker and the respective concentrations of the urine component and the external reference marker.

[0082] In an embodiment, a urinalysis system claim according to any one of the preceding system claims is presented, wherein for each of the one or more urine components, the information comprises any one or combination of the following: a total amount of the urine component, wherein the total amount consists of an absolute amount of the urine component; a volume of excreted urine comprising the urine component; or a total fluid volume inside the toilet bowl.

[0083] In an embodiment, a urinalysis system claim according to any one of the preceding system claims is presented, wherein the absolute amount of the urine component is computed based on an absolute amount of the external reference marker added to the flush water before urine excretion and the respective measured

concentrations of the urine component and the added external reference marker.

[0084] In an embodiment, a urinalysis system claim according to any one of the preceding system claims is presented, wherein the volume of excreted urine is computed based on a first ratio minus a second ratio, wherein a first ratio comprises an absolute amount of the external reference marker added to the flush water before urine excretion divided by a measured concentration of the added external reference marker, wherein the second ratio comprises an absolute amount of the external reference marker added to the flush water after urine excretion divided by a measured

concentration of the external reference marker added after the urine excretion.

[0085] In an embodiment, a urinalysis system claim according to any one of the preceding system claims is presented, wherein the total fluid volume is computed based on an absolute amount of the external reference marker added to the flush water after urine excretion and a measured concentration of the external reference marker added after the urine excretion.

[0086] In an embodiment, a urinalysis system claim according to any one of the preceding system claims is presented, wherein the volume of excreted urine is computed based on a first ratio minus a second ratio, wherein a first ratio comprises an absolute amount of the external reference marker added to the flush water before urine excretion divided by a measured concentration of the added external reference marker, wherein the second ratio comprises the absolute amount of the external reference marker added to the flush water before urine excretion divided by a concentration of the external reference marker measured after the urine excretion.

[0087] In an embodiment, a urinalysis system claim according to any one of the preceding system claims is presented, wherein the external reference marker is added to the flush water by the analysis unit.

[0088] In an embodiment, a urinalysis system claim according to any one of the preceding system claims is presented, wherein the processor and the memory are located in the analysis unit.

[0089] In an embodiment, a urinalysis system claim according to any one of the preceding system claims is presented, wherein the processor and memory are located in a device external to the analysis unit, wherein the analysis unit further comprises a communications module configured to communicate data corresponding to the detected one or more urine components to one or more devices that include the device.

[0090] In an embodiment, a urinalysis system claim according to any one of the preceding system claims is presented, wherein the analysis unit is configured to be mounted on one of the bowl, a wall, or a floor.

[0091] In an embodiment, a urinalysis system claim according to any one of the preceding system claims is presented, wherein the inlet and outlet tubing each comprises a unique code.

[0092] In an embodiment, a urinalysis system claim according to any one of the preceding system claims is presented, wherein the detection module is based on Microchip Capillary Electrophoresis. [0093] In an embodiment, a method claim comprising steps to perform any of the functions of any one of the preceding claims.

[0094] In an embodiment, a non-transitory computer readable medium encoded with instructions executable by one or more processors to perform the method of the preceding claim.

[0095] In an embodiment, a claim to a non-transitory computer readable medium for a toilet bowl is presented, the non-transitory computer readable medium encoded with instructions executable by a processor that causes the processor to: activate a pump to recirculate flush water between a toilet bowl and an analysis unit fluidly coupled to the toilet bowl; and detect one or more urine components from the recirculated flush water.

[0096] In an embodiment, a urinalysis method claim is presented that comprises recirculating flush water between a toilet bowl and an analysis unit fluidly coupled to the toilet bowl; and detecting one or more urine components from the recirculated flush water.

[0097] In an embodiment, a urinalysis method claim according to the preceding method claim is presented that further comprises determining information about the one or more detected urine components based on an internal or external reference marker added to the flush water.

[0098] In an embodiment, a urinalysis method claim according to any one of the preceding method claims is presented, wherein the information comprises a respective concentration of the one or more urine components, further comprising determining the respective concentration by estimating a dilution factor based on a known concentration of the reference marker recirculated with the flush water, the reference marker comprising a calibration liquid.

[0099] In an embodiment, a urinalysis method claim according to any one of the preceding method claims is presented, wherein the information comprises a respective concentration of the one or more urine components, further comprising determining the respective concentration based on an internal reference marker concentration. [00100] In an embodiment, a urinalysis method claim according to any one of the preceding method claims is presented, wherein the internal reference marker comprises creatinine.

[00101] In an embodiment, a urinalysis method claim according to any one of the preceding method claims is presented that further comprises determining the

information about the one or more urine components based on performing a

computation involving an external reference marker concentration, the external reference marker added to the flush water at one time or at two times separated by an event.

[00102] In an embodiment, a urinalysis method claim according to any one of the preceding method claims is presented, wherein for each of the one or more urine components, the information comprises a total amount of the urine component, wherein the total amount consists of an absolute amount of the urine component, further comprising determining the absolute amount of the urine component based on an absolute amount of the external reference marker and the respective concentrations of the urine component and the external reference marker.

[00103] In an embodiment, a urinalysis method claim according to any one of the preceding method claims is presented, wherein for each of the one or more urine components, the information comprises any one or combination of the following: a total amount of the urine component, wherein the total amount consists of an absolute amount of the urine component; a volume of excreted urine comprising the urine component; or a total fluid volume inside the toilet bowl.

[00104] In an embodiment, a urinalysis method claim according to any one of the preceding method claims is presented that further comprises computing the absolute amount of the urine component based on an absolute amount of the external reference marker added to the flush water before urine excretion and the respective measured concentrations of the urine component and the added external reference marker.

[00105] In an embodiment, a urinalysis method claim according to any one of the preceding method claims is presented that further comprises computing the volume of excreted urine based on a first ratio minus a second ratio, wherein a first ratio comprises an absolute amount of the external reference marker added to the flush water before urine excretion divided by a measured concentration of the added external reference marker, wherein the second ratio comprises an absolute amount of the external reference marker added to the flush water after urine excretion divided by a measured concentration of the external reference marker added after the urine excretion.

[00106] In an embodiment, a urinalysis method claim according to any one of the preceding method claims is presented that further comprises computing the total fluid volume is based on an absolute amount of the external reference marker added to the flush water after urine excretion and a measured concentration of the external reference marker added after the urine excretion.

[00107] In an embodiment, a urinalysis method claim according to any one of the preceding method claims is presented that further comprises computing the volume of excreted urine based on a first ratio minus a second ratio, wherein a first ratio

comprises an absolute amount of the external reference marker added to the flush water before urine excretion divided by a measured concentration of the added external reference marker, wherein the second ratio comprises the absolute amount of the external reference marker added to the flush water before urine excretion divided by a concentration of the external reference marker measured after the urine excretion.

[00108] In an embodiment, a urinalysis method claim according to any one of the preceding method claims is presented that further comprises communicating data corresponding to the detected one or more urine components to one or more devices.

[00109] In an embodiment, a urinalysis method claim according to any one of the preceding method claims is presented, wherein the detecting is based on Microchip Capillary Electrophoresis.

[00110] While the invention has been illustrated and described in detail in the drawings and foregoing description, such illustration and description are to be

considered illustrative or exemplary and not restrictive; the invention is not limited to the disclosed embodiments. Other variations to the disclosed embodiments can be understood and effected by those skilled in the art in practicing the claimed invention, from a study of the drawings, the disclosure, and the appended claims. For instance, emphasis has been placed on the urinalysis system as used by an individual, but it should be appreciated by one having ordinary skill in the art in the context of the present disclosure that the analysis unit (e.g., analysis unit 12C) may be used for multiple persons (e.g., multiple users of the same toilet bowl for which monitoring is desired). For instance, mechanisms to differentiate which individual is using the toilet bowl for purposes of analysis may include the detection of the frequency in which the activation button 32 (FIG. 2A) is pressed (e.g., once if individual A, twice is individual B, etc.), the electronic detection of an individual (e.g., detect an RFID code worn on a bracelet or pendant, detect the individual's weight based on the reception of a weight/load sensor embedded on the toilet bowl or a mat placed in proximity to the toilet bowl, the detection of presses from multiple activation buttons on the analysis unit, the detection of selected options presented on a display screen of the analysis unit or the electronic device (e.g., to select the individual whom is presently using the toilet bowl), voice or image recognition by sensors in or in proximity to the analysis unit (and in communication with the analysis unit), the automatic detection via a wireless protocol (e.g., Bluetooth), among other mechanisms. Note that various combinations of the disclosed embodiments may be used, and hence reference to an embodiment or one embodiment is not meant to exclude features from that embodiment from use with features from other embodiments. In the claims, the word "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, and the indefinite article "a" or "an" does not exclude a plurality. A single processor or other unit may fulfill the functions of several items recited in the claims. The mere fact that certain measures are recited in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used to advantage. A computer program may be stored/distributed on a suitable medium, such as an optical medium or solid-state medium supplied together with or as part of other hardware, but may also be distributed in other forms. Any reference signs in the claims should be not construed as limiting the scope.

Claims

CLAIMS At least the following is claimed:

1 . A urinalysis system for a toilet bowl (22), the system comprising:

an inlet tube (38A) arranged to be at least partially submerged in flush water (30) of the toilet bowl;

an outlet tube (38B); and

an analysis unit (12) coupled to the inlet and outlet tubes, the analysis unit comprising:

a pump (51 ) configured to recirculate the flush water through the toilet bowl, the inlet tube, the analysis unit, and the outlet tube; and

a detection module (50) configured to detect one or more urine components in the recirculated flush water.

2. The system of claim 1 , further comprising:

a memory (52) configured with executable code (58); and

a processor (44) configured by the executable code to determine information about the one or more detected urine components based on an internal or external reference marker added to the flush water.

3. The system of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the information comprises a respective concentration of the one or more urine components, wherein the processor is configured by the executable code to determine the respective concentration by estimating a dilution factor based on a known concentration of a reference marker recirculated with the flush water, the reference marker comprising a calibration liquid.

4. The system of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the information comprises a respective concentration of the one or more urine components, wherein the processor is configured by the executable code to determine the respective concentration based on an internal reference marker concentration.

5. The system of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the processor is further configured by the executable code to determine the information about the one or more urine components based on a computation by the processor involving an external reference marker concentration, the external reference marker added to the flush water at one time or at two times separated by an event.

6. The system of any one of the preceding claims, wherein for each of the one or more urine components, the information comprises a total amount of the urine component, wherein the total amount consists of an absolute amount of the urine component that is computed based on an absolute amount of the external reference marker and the respective concentrations of the urine component and the external reference marker.

7. The system of any one of the preceding claims, wherein for each of the one or more urine components, the information comprises any one or combination of the following: a total amount of the urine component, wherein the total amount consists of an absolute amount of the urine component;

a volume of excreted urine comprising the urine component; or

a total fluid volume inside the toilet bowl.

8. The system of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the absolute amount of the urine component is computed based on an absolute amount of the external reference marker added to the flush water before urine excretion and the respective measured concentrations of the urine component and the added external reference marker.

9. The system of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the volume of excreted urine is computed based on a first ratio minus a second ratio, wherein a first ratio comprises an absolute amount of the external reference marker added to the flush water before urine excretion divided by a measured concentration of the added external reference marker, wherein the second ratio comprises an absolute amount of the external reference marker added to the flush water after urine excretion divided by a measured concentration of the external reference marker added after the urine excretion.

10. The system of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the total fluid volume is computed based on an absolute amount of the external reference marker added to the flush water after urine excretion and a measured concentration of the external reference marker added after the urine excretion.

1 1 . The system of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the volume of excreted urine is computed based on a first ratio minus a second ratio, wherein a first ratio comprises an absolute amount of the external reference marker added to the flush water before urine excretion divided by a measured concentration of the added external reference marker, wherein the second ratio comprises the absolute amount of the external reference marker added to the flush water before urine excretion divided by a concentration of the external reference marker measured after the urine excretion.

12. The system of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the processor and the memory are located in the analysis unit, the processor and memory are located in a device external to the analysis unit, wherein the analysis unit further comprises a communications module configured to communicate data corresponding to the detected one or more urine components to one or more devices that include the device, or functionality of the processor and the executable code are distributed among the analysis unit and the device.

13. The system of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the analysis unit is configured to be mounted on one of the bowl, a wall, or a floor.

14. A method (64) comprising steps to perform any of the functions of any one of the preceding claims.

15. A non-transitory computer readable medium encoded with instructions executable by one or more processors to perform the method of claim 14.