WO2019142837A1

WO2019142837A1 - Health monitoring device

Info

Publication number: WO2019142837A1
Application number: PCT/JP2019/001152
Authority: WO
Inventors: Karun HALHOTRA; Ragash THACHAT
Original assignee: Murata Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
Priority date: 2018-01-16
Filing date: 2019-01-16
Publication date: 2019-07-25

Abstract

The present subject matter relates to a health monitoring device (100) having a sleeve (102) to be worn over a body part of a user. The sleeve (102) is manufactured using a stretchable and flexible material to firmly position the sleeve (102) over the body part. The sleeve (102) further comprises a sensor film (110) having one or more sensors (108) to monitor values of one or more body parameters. The health monitoring device (100) further comprises an encapsulated processing unit (104) detachably attached to the sleeve (102) to process the values of the one or more body parameters to detect presence of one or more health conditions.

Description

HEALTH MONITORING DEVICE

The present subject matter relates, in general, to a health monitoring device, and in particular, to a health monitoring device in the form of a sensor sleeve.

Adverse health conditions, such as cancer may have drastic effect on the physiological and psychological well-being of the affected individuals. Treatment of such health conditions may involve excessive monetary expenditures and may be mentally exhaustive. However, if detected early, the health conditions may be reversed when treated with significant success by choosing right medical options. In recent years various devices have been developed to detect such health conditions at an early stage, albeit with little success.

The detailed description is described with reference to the accompanying figures. In the figures, the left-most digit(s) of a reference number identifies the figure in which the reference number first appears. The same numbers are used throughout the figures to reference like features and components. Some embodiments of the system(s) in accordance with the present subject matter are described, by way of examples only, and with reference to the accompanying figures, in which:

Figure 1 illustrates a block diagram of a health monitoring device, according to an example implementation of the present subject matter; Figures 2(a)-(d) illustrate different components of a health monitoring device, according to an example implementation of the present subject matter; Figures 3(a)-(d) illustrate multiple views of a sleeve of the health monitoring device, according to an example implementation of the present subject matter; Figures 4(a)-(c) illustrate multiple views of an encapsulated processing unit of the health monitoring device, according to an example implementation of the present subject matter; Figure 5 illustrates a body mount assist of the health monitoring device, according to an example implementation of the present subject matter; Figures 6(a)-(c) illustrate multiple views of the health monitoring device, according to an example implementation of the present subject matter; Figures 7(a)-(d) illustrate multiple views of a health monitoring device, according to another example implementation of the present subject matter; and Figures 8(a)-(d) illustrate multiple views of a health monitoring device, according to yet another example implementation of the present subject matter.

Early detection of various health conditions, such as cancer may be helpful in providing a proper treatment to a patient for curtailing the worsening or resulting in a possible cure of the health condition. However, detection of such health conditions may require costly, sophisticated, and complex diagnosing facilities that may be operated by trained medical professionals. Many rural and remotely located areas may lack such amenities.

In recent years, various devices have been developed to detect such health conditions. However, the devices lack the ability to accurately diagnose health conditions, such as cancer at an early stage. Further, early detection of such health conditions may be contingent on various other factors, such as easy availability of diagnostic tools and trained medical practitioners. For example, trained professionals may be required for performing the diagnostic tests, and trained radiologists may be required for further reviewing and reporting the results. Further, the diagnostic tools and apparatus may be bulky and sophisticated, owing to which sophisticated infrastructure may be required to set up diagnostic facilities. Accordingly, an individual may have to visit such a diagnosis centre having the diagnosis facilities for getting a check-up done. Visiting such facilities, however, may become difficult for individuals, sometimes deterring the individuals from undergoing proper diagnosis for an early detection of the health condition. For example, rural and remote areas may not have access to proper diagnosis facilities in near vicinity. Furthermore, the conventional tests for diagnosing health conditions such as cancer are not affordable. As a result, the individuals belonging to those areas may not pay heed to early symptoms to get a diagnosis from a diagnosis facility located farther away until the health condition worsens to higher level. Additionally, the conventional tests do not provide test results in digital formats which may be referred to in future.

Further, portable health monitoring devices, that may be used by a user at home have been developed in recent years. In one conventional technique, health monitoring devices that can be worn by the user have been developed. However, such health monitoring devices are costly and bulky and may also need to be connected to multiple sensors and battery using wirings. The health monitoring device may thus become uncomfortable to use for the user and the user, deterring the user from using the device for long hours, owing to which accurate results may not be obtained. Further, such devices may not be reusable and the user may thus need to incur large expenditure for periodic diagnosis. Additionally, the user may be required to either take the entire device to a diagnosis centre to allow an operator to obtain the diagnosis results from the device or visit the diagnosis centre to get the diagnosis done, with the device connected to an analysis unit.

The present subject matter describes a health monitoring device, for monitoring health conditions, such as cancer for a user. In one example, the health monitoring device may be a wearable device. The health monitoring device may thus be worn by the user over a body part, such as breasts, to monitor body parameters for detecting health conditions like breast cancer. In an example embodiment, the health monitoring device includes a body mount assist, a sleeve, and an encapsulated processing unit (EPU). The sleeve may be a wearable component of the health monitoring device and may be worn on the body in a body hugging manner. The sleeve may be made of a flexible and stretchable material to allow the sleeve to fit perfectly on the body part. Having the sleeve of flexible and stretchable material further makes the sleeve adaptive to different configurations, such as size, shape, texture and surface morphology of the body part. Further, the strap-set aids in positioning the sleeve over the body part to be monitored.

In one example, the flexible and stretchable material used to manufacture the sleeve may also be disposable and bio-degradable. The sleeve may thus be safely disposed after a maximum number of usages and allowed to decompose in an environmental friendly manner. Further, the sleeve may include various sensors to detect values of different body parameters, such as temperature, from the body part on which the sleeve is worn. The sensors may be positioned on the sleeve such that when in use, the sensors are appropriately placed on the target area of the body. Values of the body parameters may then be converted into digital form and transferred to the EPU for storage and further processing. In an example, various ancillary devices, such as sensors are printed on the sleeve using a suitable technique, such as three-dimensional (3D) printing.

The sleeve may further include a provision for mounting the EPU. In one example, upon receiving the data signals having values of the body parameter from the sensors, the EPU may process the parameter values to detect the presence of a heath condition. The EPU may subsequently display initial analysis results on an electronic device connected to the EPU or on an in-built display unit of the EPU. In an example, the EPU may include result indicators, say, as one or more light sources, such as LED lights, of different colours for indicating the presence of a health condition by lighting one of the one or more LEDs. Further, the EPU may store the parameter values for further processing and analysis at a later point of time, for example, upon being connected to an analysis device. In one example embodiment, the EPU may be detachably attached to the sleeve such that the EPU may be separated from the health monitoring device and submitted at a local health centre or sent over post or courier to trained professionals for further analysis. In another example embodiment, the EPU may be configured to transmit the sensor readings to a trained professional over a wireless network, or to a remote server or a computing device for analysis.

The health monitoring device, of the present subject matter thus provides an affordable and an easy to use alternative to existing health monitoring systems for detecting various health conditions in individuals. The health monitoring device is adaptable for use at home or a medical professional’s clinic. The easy to use and self-detection characteristics of the health monitoring device further helps in reducing or avoiding visits to trained medical professionals in diagnosis centres, and therefore allows individuals to carry out timely Screening and/or diagnosis which may help in early detection of malicious health conditions. Having the flexible and stretchable sleeves helps the user in easily putting on the health monitoring device, without any training or professional help.

Further, the health monitoring device is manufactured using bio-degradable materials thereby reducing the impact on environment due to disposal of electronic or polymer based medical devices. Further, incorporating sensors and the ancillary devices in printed form may further help in reducing the manufacturing cost. Further, the printed sensors and ancillary devices may provide for a relatively better user experience by reducing/eliminating the number of wires typically used for connecting various ancillary devices. Furthermore, the design of the health monitoring device, in particularly for monitoring of breasts, provides for user comfort, familiarity of use, and further ensures that it complies with the wearer’s religious beliefs and social status. The health monitoring device is also re-useable, and the sleeve may be changed from time to time. The design of the health monitoring device is versatile as it is compatible with the different body parts and different body shapes of individuals.

These and other advantages of the present subject matter would be described in a greater detail in conjunction with the Figures 1-8 in the following description. The manner in which the health monitoring device is implemented and operated shall be explained in detail with respect to the Figures 1-8 Further, while the description of the health monitoring device is largely explained in the context of a sleeve that may be worn over breast for detecting health conditions related to breast cancer, the health monitoring device may also be worn over other body parts for detecting health conditions related to other diseases, with slight modifications. Further, it will be understood that monitoring the health may include screening and diagnosing health parameters that can indicate the health conditions of the user.

It should be noted that the description merely illustrates the principles of the present subject matter. It will thus be appreciated that those skilled in the art will be able to devise various arrangements that, although not explicitly described herein, embody the principles of the present subject matter and are included within its scope. Furthermore, all examples recited herein are intended only to aid the reader in understanding the principles of the present subject matter. Moreover, all statements herein reciting principles, aspects and embodiments of the present subject matter, as well as specific examples thereof, are intended to encompass equivalents thereof.

Figure 1 illustrates a block diagram of a health monitoring device 100, according to an example implementation of the present subject matter. The health monitoring device 100 may be used by a user for monitoring health conditions, such as cancer, tumour. In one example, the health monitoring device 100 may be worn by the user over a body part to monitor body parameters for detecting the various health conditions. In an example embodiment, the health monitoring device 100 includes a sleeve 102, an encapsulated processing unit (EPU) 104, and a body mount assist 106.

The sleeve 102 is to be worn over a body part of the user to obtain values of one or more body parameters. In one example implementation, the sleeve 102 includes one or more sensors 108-1, 108-2, 108-3,…, 108-n to monitor the values of the body parameters. The one or more sensors 108-1, 108-2, 108-3,…, 108-n are collectively referred to as sensors 108 and individually referred to as sensor 108. The one or more sensors 108 may be provided on a sensor film 110. The EPU 104 is to be detachably attached to the sleeve 102 to process the values of the one or more body parameters to detect presence of one or more health conditions. Further, the body mount assist 106 is to hold the sleeve 102 and the health monitoring device 100 over the body part of the user.

In one example, the sleeve 102 further includes an accessory holder 112 and a sleeve latch 114. The accessory holder 112 is provided to attach the sleeve 102 to the body mount assist 106 of the health monitoring device 100. The sleeve latch 114 may allow the EPU 104 to be attached to the sleeve 102. In one example, the sleeve latch 114 includes a first sleeve interface 116 to receive power from the EPU 104 and a second sleeve interface 118 to transmit data signals to the EPU 104. In one example, the data signals may include the values of one or more body parameters detected by the sensors 108.

The EPU 104 includes an actuation switch 120, a display unit 122, a power source 124, a communication unit 126, memory 128, and an EPU latch 130. The actuation switch 120 may be used to power ON/OFF the EPU 104. The power source 124 may be used to supply power to the health monitoring device 100. The EPU latch 130 may be connected to the sleeve latch 114 to attach the EPU 104 to the sleeve 102. The EPU latch 130 may further include a first EPU interface 132 to supply power from the power source 124 to the sleeve 102 and a second EPU interface 134 to receive data signals, having the values of the one or more body parameters, from the sleeve 102. In one example, when the EPU latch 130 is latched in the sleeve latch 114, the first EPU interface 132 is in contact with the first sleeve interface 116 and the second EPU interface 134 is in communication with the second sleeve interface 118.

The communication unit 126 may be used by the EPU 104 to communicate analysis data with one or more external devices. In one example, the communication unit 126 may support any wireless communication, near field communication, Bluetooth, wired communication etc. to communicate the analysis data to the one or more external devices, such as user device, diagnosis system at a diagnosing facility, where the analysis data may be further processed.

The memory 128 may include any non-transitory computer-readable medium known in the art, including, for example, volatile memory, such as static random access memory (SRAM) and dynamic random access memory (DRAM), and/or non-volatile memory, such as read only memory (ROM), erasable programmable ROM, flash memories, hard disks, optical disks, and magnetic tapes. In one example, the EPU 104 may use the memory 128 to store at least one of values of the one or more body parameters, the analysis data, initial analysis result, and a device ID of the health monitoring device 100.

The EPU 104 may further use the display unit 122 to render at least one of the initial analysis result, power status, memory usage, and functional status of the encapsulated processing unit 104. In one example, the display unit 122 may include a result indicator 136 to render a first signal indicating presence of a health condition and a second signal indicating absence of the health condition. The result indicator 136 may be for example, a LED, an alarm, an audio playback device, a visual display, etc. For instance, the result indicator 136 may render light of a first colour to render the first signal and light of a second colour to render the second signal. In another example, the result indicator 136 may emit a first sound to render the first signal and a second sound to render the second signal.

The display unit 122 may further include a function and status indicator 138 to render at least one of power status, memory usage, and functional status of the EPU 104.

The working and the further details of the health monitoring device 100 are further described in conjunction with Figure 2. Figures 2(a)-(d) illustrate different components of the health monitoring device 100, according to an example implementation of the present subject matter. Figure 2(a) shows a front view of an exemplary implementation of the health monitoring device 100 in an assembled state. Figure 2(b) shows the sleeve 102 of the health monitoring device 100. Figure 2(c) shows the EPU 104 of the health monitoring device 100. Figure 2(d) shows the body mount assist 106 of the health monitoring device 100.

As previously described, the sleeve 102 may be configured to be worn by an individual over a body part, such as breasts, for detection of health conditions like breast cancer. However, the sleeve 102 may also be used on any other part of the body that requires monitoring. The sleeve 102 may be manufactured using a flexible and stretchable material to allow the sleeve 102 to be compatible with different body parts of different shapes and sizes, and to allow the sleeve 102 to fit perfectly on the body part. The material of the sleeve 102 may further be bio-degradable. In one example, the sleeve 102 may be meant for a single use after which it may be discarded. In another example, the sleeve 102 may be used multiple times before being discarded.

The sleeve 102 may further include the sensor film 110 having the sensors 108 to monitor values of one or more body parameters. In one example, the sensors 108 may be non-invasive sensors and may be printed on the inner surface of the sleeve 102 using a suitable technique, such as three-dimensional (3D) printing. In another example, the sensors 108 may be embedded in the sleeve 102. The sensors 108 may be positioned on the sleeve 102 such that the sensors 108 are appropriately placed on a target area of the body part, touching the target area during use. The target area may be a body part or a particular section of the body part for which the body parameters have to be monitored. Having the sleeve 102 made of flexible and stretchable material allows the sensors 108 to make optimum contact with the surface of the target area to ensure reliable and accurate sensor readings.

When worn over the body part, the sensors 108 may sense a body parameter, such as temperature. Examples of the sensors 108 include, but are not limited to, piezo-electric sensors and optical sensors. Further, the sensors 108 may be thermal sensors capturing temperature across breasts over a period of time, which may be then converted into digital form, transferred and stored in a processing unit. In an example, the thermal sensors obtain temperature readings of the breast over a period ranging from 0 to 16 hours, depending on the requirement.

The readings, having the values of the body parameters, obtained by the sensors 108 are subsequently received by the EPU 104. The EPU 104 may be snap connected via a flexible circuitry to the sensors 108, for instance, through the sleeve latch 114 and the EPU latch 130. The EPU 104 may further process values of body parameters to detect the presence of one or more heath conditions. The EPU 104 may also store the sensor readings in a data storage unit in the memory 128 for later processing and analysis. Further, the EPU 104 may transmit the sensor readings to one or more external devices, such as another computing device for processing and reference. For example, after obtaining the sensor readings, the EPU 104 may be separated from the health monitoring device, and the EPU 104 may be sent to a medical professional for processing of the sensor readings and analysis. In another example, the EPU 104, upon obtaining readings, may communicate over a network, using the communication unit 126, to transmit the sensor readings to a trained medical professional.

Further, the EPU 104 may employ Machine Learning (ML) using Big Data Analysis and Artificial Intelligence (AI) for analysing the captured data for result interpretation. In one implementation, the EPU 104 may include a processing unit 140 to process the data signals received from the sensors 108. Further, the EPU 104 may include a security firmware. The EPU 104 may be an independent unit and may be attachable to the sleeve 102 having sensors 108. Accordingly, the EPU 104 may be separable and retrofitted to the health monitoring device 100.

The health monitoring device 100 may further include a Radio-Frequency identification (RFID) tag which may provide information about the identity of the health monitoring device 100.

In one example, the body mount assist 106 may be a strap-set as shown in the Figures 2(a) and 2(d) may be worn over the body, around a body part to be monitored. The strap-set 106 may include a plurality of straps that may aid in positioning the sleeve 102 over the body part. The body mount assist 106 may be available in various shapes and sizes to suit an individual’s body shape. The body mount assist 106 may support the sleeve 102 to be worn by the individual. Further, the body mount assist 106 may be re-usable while the sleeve 102 may be changed from time-to-time. The body mount assist 106, the sleeve 102, and the EPU 104 may be available independently and may be retro-fitted.

In operation, an individual may wear the health monitoring device 100 on her body, such that the sleeve 102 is worn around a body part to be monitored for a health condition, and the sensors 108 provided on the inner side of the sleeve 102 maintain an optimum contact with the body part. As the health monitoring device 100 is switched ON, using the activation switch 120, the sensors 108 may start monitoring values of parameters of the body part around which the sleeve 102 is worn. The values of the parameters sensed and recorded by the sensors 108 are then provided to the EPU 104. In an example, the EPU 104 may process the parameters, for example, using the processing unit 140 to determine the presence of a health condition, such as cancer in the body part. In another example, the EPU 104 may store the value of the parameters received from the sensors 108 in the memory 128. The EPU 104 may then be separated from the health monitoring device 100 and sent to a diagnosing facility for further analysis. In yet another example, the EPU 104 may communicate the value of the parameters to the diagnosing facility over wireless network, using the communication unit 126 for further analysis. Based on the analysis, the health condition is detected and the information about the same may be conveyed to the individual by any suitable communication means, such as email, voice call and post. In an example, once the health monitoring device 100 is initiated for performing monitoring, a test time window is opened in which the user may compete the study.

Further, the EPU may be made available to a user by the seller for a price, and after carrying out monitoring, the user may be given an option to return the EPU back to seller for refurbishing and reuse. The user may receive an incentive for returning the EPU. The user may be allotted a Unique User ID (UUID) which may allow the user multiple uses, and allow the user to share results on subsequent uses. Based on UUID, the user may be prompted to retake the monitoring. The user’s age, previous study report may also be recorded and stored and referred on subsequent use. The user may be given an indication by the EPU on carrying out an initial monitoring. For example, the user may be provided indication by displaying expressions like "NO PROBLEMS", "NEED TO WATCH" and "GO TO DOCTOR" on a display provided on the health monitoring device 100. These expressions may be marked as different zones and each zone may indicate a clinical interpretation. The interpretations may be derived based on a database, and may the interpretations may eventually become Gold Standards.

In another example, the information about using the health monitoring device 100 may be provided through a mobile application. The individual may register on the mobile application using a smartphone, Tablet or PC. However, the user may register using a web-based application also. Upon registration, the user may study the prude of using the health monitoring device 100. Thereafter, the mobile application shall guide the user in a step-by-step procedure.

In an example, the step-by-step procedure may include the following steps. The procedure starts with unboxing the health monitoring device 100. Thereafter, a Radio-frequency identification (RFID) tag scan is performed to identify the health monitoring device 100 over a web service. Thereupon, the health monitoring device 100 is worn on the body of the individual. The EPU 104 may either be included in the health monitoring device 100, or it may be retrofitted to obtain and record denser readings. The EPU 104 may then be switched ON. Next, the cautionary measure may be described to the user. Thereafter, information about Start of the study duration, mapping and notifying alerts or errors during study duration, End of study duration, Study competition confirmation (Different SOP’s based on multiple study outcomes like Study Completed, error during study, study not completed, Study halted/abandoned, Interruptions in the link or data storage) may be provided. Further, information about posting the study SOP like Initiating data transfer to central server for processing, removing the EPU 104 and help user choose best possible option to return it to Company, Separating the Accessory from BC, and disposing the health monitoring device in pouch is provided. Thereafter, the mobile application may provide information on how to assess the quality of data acquired, interpretation of the results, and sharing the detailed report with consulting physician is provided.

Further, having the detachable EPU 104 for storing the value of the body parameters in the data repository facilitates in detailed analysis of the data as the data may be shared with trained professionals for future reference or tracking the progress of the treatment. Further, the health monitoring device 100 provides results which are reliable, as they may be verified by medical professionals. The result may be recorded digitally, and may be used for future references.

Figures 3(a)-(d) illustrate multiple views of the sleeve 102 of the health monitoring device 100, according to an example implementation of the present subject matter. Figure 3(a) shows a front view of the sleeve 102 with various sensors 108 distributed over the surface of the sleeve 102 for allowing optimum contact of the sensors 108, adapted for monitoring a breast of an individual. Figure 3(b) shows another front view of a sleeve 102 with one or more accessory holder(s). Figure 3(c) shows a side view of a sleeve 102. Figure 3(d) shows a side view of the sleeve 102 with accessory holder(s).

As previously described, the sleeve 102 includes the one or more accessory holder(s) 112, the sensor film 110, one or more edge stub 302-1, 302-2, the sleeve latch 114, and the sensor(s) 108. The accessory holder 112 provides one of slots and hooks for attaching to the body mount assist 106, to thereby allow the sleeve 102 to be mounted on the body mount assist 106, such as a strap set for wearing the sleeve 102 on a body part of an individual. The sleeve 102 further includes the sensor film 110 having the sensors 108. The sensors 108 may be attached to the sleeve 102. In an example, the sensors 108 may be printed on the inner surface of the sleeve. The sensor film 110 may be made of bio-degradable, stretchable, and flexible film-like material. The stretchable and flexible nature of the material allows for the sleeve to conform to different body parts of the individual, and allows the sleeve to conform to body parts of different shapes and sizes.

Examples of bio-degradable and bio-compatible (with human skin) material include, but are not limited to, polymeric material like Polyethylene terephthalate (PEN), silicone based elastomers, polyoleifin films, polyurethane, etc. In one example, some of the polymeric material maybe be bio-degradable like polymers based on polysaccharides, hydrophilic gycolide, polyhydroxyalkanoates, etc. In another example, plant based organic biodegradable materials may be used. Examples of stretchable and flexible material include, but are not limited to, polyurethane and latex.

Further, the sensors 108 may be manufactured using electronic transducers that may be made into a paste for printing or that can be directly deposited on a base material using techniques such as CVD, plasma deposition, sputtering, etc. Examples of the electronic transducers include, but are not limited to, printable ceramic, organic thermistors, piezo electric pastes, etc.

Further, the sensors 108 may be connected to the sleeve latch 114 through stretchable wire, for instance, to share sensor readings having values of the body parameters and/or receive power from the EPU 104. In one example, the wiring used for connecting the sensors 108 to the sleeve latch 114 may be provided in the form of printed silver, gold or metallic patterns of known and predictable resistivity which do not lose integrity on stretching. The wirings may be made using a composition comprising of metallic powder and proprietary organic resins, binders, and other additives. In one example, the wires may have a thickness in the range of 1 micron to 100 microns.

Further, the sleeve includes the edge stubs 302-1, 302-2 attached along the edges of the sleeve film. The edge stubs 302-1, 302-2 may be made of rigid material to provide overall strength to the sleeve design, and prevent damage of the sensor film along the edges. The edge stubs 302-1, 302-2 may be attached to the sensor film 110 by way of pasting with an adhesive or stitching. The sleeve latch 114 is provided for mounting the EPU 104. The sleeve latch 114 may provide an interface between the sensors 108 and the EPU 104 for allowing the EPU 104 to receive the sensor readings from the sensors.

Figures 4(a)-(c) illustrate multiple views of an encapsulated processing unit of the health monitoring device, according to an example implementation of the present subject matter. Figure 4(a) shows a perspective view of the EPU 104. Figure 4(b) shows a top view of the EPU 104. Figure 4(c) shows a side view of the EPU 104.

In one example implementation, the EPU 104 may include the actuation switch 120, such as a power ON/OFF button; the result indicator 136, such as a multi-colour LED, the EPU latch 130, and the function and status indicator 138, such as a multi-colour LED. The function and status indicator 138 may be used to indicate various stages of the functioning of the EPU 104. For example, the function and status indicator 138 may indicate if the EPU 104 is ON or OFF, time for which the EPU 104 has been ON and receiving sensor readings, memory usage, and so on. The EPU 104 may further include the communication unit 126, such as a Bluetooth communication unit, power source 124, a power management unit, and the memory 128 having data storage space and firmware.

As previously described, the EPU 104 may be mounted on the sleeve 102, using the EPU latch 130 and the sleeve latch 114.The EPU 104 may be separable from the body mount assist 106 or the sleeve 102, such that the EPU 104 may be separated and reused with another strap-set or sleeve. Further, the EPU 104 may be compatible with various standards, such as Restriction of Hazardous Substances Directive (ROHS). The EPU 104 may be shock-proof, and may include a shock-proof coating to protect the EPU 104 from damage in case of mishandling of the same.

In operation, the EPU 104 may be initially attached to the sleeve 104 by latching the EPU latch 130 in the sleeve latch 114. In one example, the EPU latch 130 may be latched to the sleeve latch 114 such that first sleeve interface 116 interfaces with the first EPU interface 132 and the second sleeve interface 118 interfaces with the second EPU interface 134. The EPU 104 may then be switched ON using the actuation switch 120. Once actuated, the second EPU interface 134 may receive the data signals from the second sleeve interface 118 for diagnosis. The processing unit 140 of the EPU 104 may then obtain the values of the body parameters from the data signals to analyse the values of the one or more body parameters to detect presence of one or more health conditions. In one example, before sharing the data signals, the sensors 108 may convert analog values into digital values.

In one example, the processing unit 140 may perform an initial analysis to determine if the health condition exists. In case the health condition exists, an initial analysis result along with the data signals may be shared with the external computing device for further analysis. In one example, the processing unit 140 may compare the values of each body parameter with a sample threshold value stored in the memory 128. If the value of a body parameter is above the threshold value, the EPU 104 may determine the health condition associated with the body parameter to be present. If the value of the body parameter is below or equal to the threshold value, the EPU 104 may determine the health condition to be absent. In one example, one health condition may be associated with more than one body parameter. In such a case, the presence of the health condition may be ascertained if more than predetermined number of body parameters have a value greater than the corresponding threshold values.

Once the initial analysis result is obtained, the result indicator 136 may indicate the initial diagnosis result. In one example, the result indicator 136 may render a first signal indicating presence of a health condition and a second signal indicating absence of the health condition. For example, if the initial diagnosis is positive, the result indicator 136 may get illuminated in red colour to provide the first signal. If the initial diagnosis is negative, the result indicator 136 may get illuminated in green colour to provide the second signal. In another example, the result indicator 136 may emit a first audio, say, "result positive" or "breast cancer detected" or a first sound to render the first signal and a second audio, say, "result negative" or "no abnormalities" or a second sound to render the second signal.

Subsequently, after carrying out the diagnosis, the EPU may be switched OFF using the actuation switch 120. In one example implementation, the EPU 104 may further communicate the initial analysis report to the external device, such as a mobile phone of the user for being displayed to the user. The external device may further render a detailed analysis report after the values have been fully processed. giving multiple clinical points that may assist a physician to take further clinical pathway for treatment of a user.

Figure 5 illustrates the body mount assist 106 of the health monitoring device 100, according to an example implementation of the present subject matter. In said example, the body mount assist 106 is a strap-set adapted to be worn around the breast region of an individual, typically like a brassiere. The body mount assist 106 may include a plurality of straps for positioning the sleeve 102 over the body part and supporting the EPU 104. The body mount assist 106 may be worn over the body around a body part, such as the breasts, to be monitored.

In said example, the body mount assist 106 may include a shoulder string/strap 502, a cup bridge 504, a side band 506, a back hook/fastener 508, and a back strap 510. The shoulder string/strap 502, the side band 506, the back strap 510 and the back hook/fastener 508 may allow the body mount assist 106 to be supported on the body of the individual around the breast region, while the cup bridge 504 may allow for the sleeve 102 to be attached to the body mount assist 106 to accommodate the breasts of the individual wearing the body mount assist 106.

Figures 6(a)-(c) illustrate multiple views of the health monitoring device, according to an example implementation of the present subject matter. In one example, the Figures 6(a)-(c) illustrate the various views of the health monitoring device 100 with the sleeve 102, the EPU 104 and the body mount assist 106 assembled as a kit. Figure 6(a) illustrates a rear view of the health monitoring device 100, Figure 6(b) illustrates a front view of the health monitoring device 100, and the Figure 6(c) illustrates a side view of the health monitoring device 100.

Figures 7(a)-(d) illustrate multiple views of the health monitoring device 100, according to another example implementation of the present subject matter, without a strap-set. Figure 8(a) shows a front view of the health monitoring device 100. The health monitoring device 100 includes a back strap 702, a side strap 704, cups 706 and a cup bridge 708. As illustrated, the health monitoring device 100 of the present example has the body mount assist 106 and sleeve 102 integrated into a single unit. The back strap 702 and the side strap 704 may allow the health monitoring device 100 to be worn on an individual’s body. The cups 706 may include sensors 108 on the inner surface of the cups 706. Further, the sensors 108 may be printed on the inner surface of the cups 706. Further, the cups 706 may be attached by a cup bridge 708 to allow the health monitoring device 100 to be worn on the individual’s body and hold the cups 706 in position.

Figure 7(b) shows a rear view of the health monitoring device 100. As such, the back strap 702, and the side strap 704 can be seen. Figure 7(c) shows another front view of the health monitoring device 100. As shown in the Figure 7(c), the health monitoring device 100 includes the back strap 702, the side strap 704, the cup holders 710, the cup bridge 708, and the EPU 104. Figure 7(d) shows another rear view of the health monitoring device 100. As shown in the Figure 8(d), the health monitoring device 100 includes the back strap 702, the side strap 704, cups 706, and the cup bridge 708. The cups further include the sensors 108 distributed over the inner surface of the cups 706.

Figures 8(a)-(d) illustrate multiple views of the health monitoring device 100, according to yet another example implementation of the present subject matter, the health monitoring device 100 being implemented as a blouse. Figure 8(a) shows a front view of the health monitoring device 100. As shown in the Figure 8(a), the health monitoring device 100 includes a back strap 802, cup holders 804, blouse front panel 806, and an arm sleeve 808. The health monitoring device 100 may be as used in form of a blouse by an individual and worn around the breast region to carry out diagnosis of the breasts.

Figure 8(b) shows a rear view of the health monitoring device 100. As shown in Figure 8(b), the health monitoring device 100 includes the cup holders 804, the blouse front panel 806, the arm sleeve 808, and a back flap 810. The cup holders 804 may support the sleeve 102 having the sensors 108 for sensing health parameters from the breasts of the individual. Figure 8(c) shows another front view of the health monitoring device 100 which includes the back strap 802, the cups holders 804, the blouse front panel 806, the arm sleeve 808, and the EPU 104. Figure 8(d) illustrates another rear view of the health monitoring device 100 having the cup holders 804, the blouse front panel 806, the arm sleeve 808, the back flap 810, and the sleeve 102. The sleeve 102 includes the sensors 108 that may be provided on the inner side of the sleeve 102.

Although aspects and features of the present subject matter have been described in the language specific to structural features, it is to be understood that the present subject matter is not necessarily limited to the specific features described. Rather, the specific features are disclosed and explained in the context of a few aspects of the present subject matter.

Claims

A health monitoring device (100) comprising:
a sleeve (102) to be worn over a body part of a user, wherein the sleeve (102) is manufactured using a stretchable and flexible material to firmly position the sleeve (102) over the body part, the sleeve (102) comprising:
a sensor film (110) having one or more sensors (108) to monitor values of one or more body parameters; and
an encapsulated processing unit (104) detachably attached to the sleeve (102) to process the values of the one or more body parameters to detect presence of one or more health conditions.
The health monitoring device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the sensor film (110) is printed over an inner part of the sleeve (102) to be in physical contact with the body part.
The health monitoring device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the sleeve (102) is made of biodegradable material.
The health monitoring device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the sensor film (110) is manufactured using a biodegradable material.
The health monitoring device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the one or more sensors (108) are manufactured using electronic transducers selected from a group consisting of printable ceramic thermistors, organic thermistors, piezo-electric pastes, and combinations thereof.
The health monitoring device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the encapsulated processing unit (104) comprises:
a power source (124) to supply power to the health monitoring device (100);
an encapsulated processing unit (EPU) latch (130) to attach the encapsulated processing unit (104) to the sleeve (102), wherein the EPU latch (130) comprises:
a first EPU interface (132) to supply power from the power source (124) to the sleeve (102); and
a second EPU interface (134) to receive data signals, having the values of the one or more body parameters, from the sleeve (102);
a communication unit (126) to communicate analysis data with one or more external devices; and
a display unit (122) to render at least one of initial analysis result, power status, memory usage, and functional status of the encapsulated processing unit (104).
The health monitoring device (100) as claimed in claim 6, wherein the sleeve (102) comprises:
a sleeve latch (114) to receive the EPU latch (130) to attach the encapsulated processing unit (104) to the sleeve (102), wherein the sleeve latch (114) includes:
a first sleeve interface (116) to receive power from the EPU latch (130); and
a second sleeve interface (118) to transmit the data signals to the encapsulated processing unit (104); and
an accessory holder (112) to attach the sleeve (102) to a body mount assist (106) of the health monitoring device (100).
The health monitoring device (100) as claimed in claim 1, further comprising a body mount assist (106) to hold the sleeve (102) and the health monitoring device (100) over the body part of the user.
The health monitoring device (100) as claimed in claim 6, wherein the display unit (122) comprises at least one of:
a result indicator (136) to render a first signal indicating presence of a health condition and a second signal indicating absence of the health condition; and
a function and status indicator (138) to render at least one of power status, memory usage, and functional status of the encapsulated processing unit (104).
The health monitoring device (100) as claimed in claim 9, wherein the result indicator (136) and the function and status indicator (138) are multicoloured light emitting diodes, wherein the result indicator (136) emits different colours to render first signal and second signal, and wherein the function and status indicator (138) emits different colours to render power status, memory usage, and functional status.