WO2022148543A1 - Earbud having biometric sensing capacities and a method for performing a biometric measurement - Google Patents

Earbud having biometric sensing capacities and a method for performing a biometric measurement Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2022148543A1
WO2022148543A1 PCT/EP2021/050233 EP2021050233W WO2022148543A1 WO 2022148543 A1 WO2022148543 A1 WO 2022148543A1 EP 2021050233 W EP2021050233 W EP 2021050233W WO 2022148543 A1 WO2022148543 A1 WO 2022148543A1
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
earbud
electrode
user
sensor
measurement
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/EP2021/050233
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Virginie VISSAC
Yu Zhu
Zhao ZHAO
Original Assignee
Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd.
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd. filed Critical Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd.
Priority to CN202180089544.8A priority Critical patent/CN116685267A/en
Priority to PCT/EP2021/050233 priority patent/WO2022148543A1/en
Priority to EP21701224.4A priority patent/EP4243693A1/en
Publication of WO2022148543A1 publication Critical patent/WO2022148543A1/en

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Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B5/00—Measuring for diagnostic purposes; Identification of persons
    • A61B5/05—Detecting, measuring or recording for diagnosis by means of electric currents or magnetic fields; Measuring using microwaves or radio waves 
    • A61B5/053—Measuring electrical impedance or conductance of a portion of the body
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B5/00—Measuring for diagnostic purposes; Identification of persons
    • A61B5/01—Measuring temperature of body parts ; Diagnostic temperature sensing, e.g. for malignant or inflamed tissue
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B5/00—Measuring for diagnostic purposes; Identification of persons
    • A61B5/02—Detecting, measuring or recording pulse, heart rate, blood pressure or blood flow; Combined pulse/heart-rate/blood pressure determination; Evaluating a cardiovascular condition not otherwise provided for, e.g. using combinations of techniques provided for in this group with electrocardiography or electroauscultation; Heart catheters for measuring blood pressure
    • A61B5/021—Measuring pressure in heart or blood vessels
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B5/00—Measuring for diagnostic purposes; Identification of persons
    • A61B5/02—Detecting, measuring or recording pulse, heart rate, blood pressure or blood flow; Combined pulse/heart-rate/blood pressure determination; Evaluating a cardiovascular condition not otherwise provided for, e.g. using combinations of techniques provided for in this group with electrocardiography or electroauscultation; Heart catheters for measuring blood pressure
    • A61B5/024—Detecting, measuring or recording pulse rate or heart rate
    • A61B5/02438—Detecting, measuring or recording pulse rate or heart rate with portable devices, e.g. worn by the patient
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B5/00—Measuring for diagnostic purposes; Identification of persons
    • A61B5/02—Detecting, measuring or recording pulse, heart rate, blood pressure or blood flow; Combined pulse/heart-rate/blood pressure determination; Evaluating a cardiovascular condition not otherwise provided for, e.g. using combinations of techniques provided for in this group with electrocardiography or electroauscultation; Heart catheters for measuring blood pressure
    • A61B5/024—Detecting, measuring or recording pulse rate or heart rate
    • A61B5/02444—Details of sensor
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B5/00—Measuring for diagnostic purposes; Identification of persons
    • A61B5/24—Detecting, measuring or recording bioelectric or biomagnetic signals of the body or parts thereof
    • A61B5/25—Bioelectric electrodes therefor
    • A61B5/251—Means for maintaining electrode contact with the body
    • A61B5/256—Wearable electrodes, e.g. having straps or bands
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B5/00—Measuring for diagnostic purposes; Identification of persons
    • A61B5/24—Detecting, measuring or recording bioelectric or biomagnetic signals of the body or parts thereof
    • A61B5/25—Bioelectric electrodes therefor
    • A61B5/279—Bioelectric electrodes therefor specially adapted for particular uses
    • A61B5/28—Bioelectric electrodes therefor specially adapted for particular uses for electrocardiography [ECG]
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B5/00—Measuring for diagnostic purposes; Identification of persons
    • A61B5/24—Detecting, measuring or recording bioelectric or biomagnetic signals of the body or parts thereof
    • A61B5/316—Modalities, i.e. specific diagnostic methods
    • A61B5/318—Heart-related electrical modalities, e.g. electrocardiography [ECG]
    • A61B5/321—Accessories or supplementary instruments therefor, e.g. cord hangers
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B5/00—Measuring for diagnostic purposes; Identification of persons
    • A61B5/24—Detecting, measuring or recording bioelectric or biomagnetic signals of the body or parts thereof
    • A61B5/316—Modalities, i.e. specific diagnostic methods
    • A61B5/318—Heart-related electrical modalities, e.g. electrocardiography [ECG]
    • A61B5/332—Portable devices specially adapted therefor
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B5/00—Measuring for diagnostic purposes; Identification of persons
    • A61B5/24—Detecting, measuring or recording bioelectric or biomagnetic signals of the body or parts thereof
    • A61B5/316—Modalities, i.e. specific diagnostic methods
    • A61B5/318—Heart-related electrical modalities, e.g. electrocardiography [ECG]
    • A61B5/346—Analysis of electrocardiograms
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B5/00—Measuring for diagnostic purposes; Identification of persons
    • A61B5/68—Arrangements of detecting, measuring or recording means, e.g. sensors, in relation to patient
    • A61B5/6801—Arrangements of detecting, measuring or recording means, e.g. sensors, in relation to patient specially adapted to be attached to or worn on the body surface
    • A61B5/6802—Sensor mounted on worn items
    • A61B5/6803—Head-worn items, e.g. helmets, masks, headphones or goggles
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B5/00—Measuring for diagnostic purposes; Identification of persons
    • A61B5/68—Arrangements of detecting, measuring or recording means, e.g. sensors, in relation to patient
    • A61B5/6801—Arrangements of detecting, measuring or recording means, e.g. sensors, in relation to patient specially adapted to be attached to or worn on the body surface
    • A61B5/6813—Specially adapted to be attached to a specific body part
    • A61B5/6814—Head
    • A61B5/6815—Ear
    • A61B5/6817—Ear canal
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B5/00—Measuring for diagnostic purposes; Identification of persons
    • A61B5/68—Arrangements of detecting, measuring or recording means, e.g. sensors, in relation to patient
    • A61B5/6801—Arrangements of detecting, measuring or recording means, e.g. sensors, in relation to patient specially adapted to be attached to or worn on the body surface
    • A61B5/6813—Specially adapted to be attached to a specific body part
    • A61B5/6825—Hand
    • A61B5/6826—Finger
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B5/00—Measuring for diagnostic purposes; Identification of persons
    • A61B5/72—Signal processing specially adapted for physiological signals or for diagnostic purposes
    • A61B5/7221—Determining signal validity, reliability or quality
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B2560/00—Constructional details of operational features of apparatus; Accessories for medical measuring apparatus
    • A61B2560/02—Operational features
    • A61B2560/0204—Operational features of power management
    • A61B2560/0214—Operational features of power management of power generation or supply
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B2562/00—Details of sensors; Constructional details of sensor housings or probes; Accessories for sensors
    • A61B2562/02—Details of sensors specially adapted for in-vivo measurements
    • A61B2562/0204—Acoustic sensors
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G16—INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR SPECIFIC APPLICATION FIELDS
    • G16H—HEALTHCARE INFORMATICS, i.e. INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR THE HANDLING OR PROCESSING OF MEDICAL OR HEALTHCARE DATA
    • G16H40/00—ICT specially adapted for the management or administration of healthcare resources or facilities; ICT specially adapted for the management or operation of medical equipment or devices
    • G16H40/60—ICT specially adapted for the management or administration of healthcare resources or facilities; ICT specially adapted for the management or operation of medical equipment or devices for the operation of medical equipment or devices
    • G16H40/63—ICT specially adapted for the management or administration of healthcare resources or facilities; ICT specially adapted for the management or operation of medical equipment or devices for the operation of medical equipment or devices for local operation

Definitions

  • Earbud having biometric sensing capacities and a method for performing a biometric measurement
  • the disclosure relates to earbud (a small earphone worn in the ear), and particularly to an earbud having biometric sensing capacities and to a method for performing a biometric measurement.
  • Electrocardiography is a method that measures the electrical activity generated by heart muscle depolarizations, which propagate in pulsating electrical waves towards the skin, by measuring the potential difference between two points on the body.
  • the medical measurement of an ECG requires the use of 12 wet electrodes placed on the chest and limbs of the patient. This measurement is useful to detect cardiac problems such as arrhythmias which is why it has been widely investigated if it was possible to embed such measurement in watches.
  • the potential difference between the two hands is linked to the potential difference found on the horizontal part of the heart since the electric loop formed by the arms passes horizontally through the heart.
  • One problem that can be observed with these devices is that it requires using both hands/arms so that the user concerned cannot use their hands for anything else whilst performing the measurement. Furthermore, it requires the user not to move during the measurement, so that the wrist wearing the watch will not move too much to prevent damaging the ECG signal. As a result, performing this measurement can under circumstances be challenging for a user to perform.
  • Bioimpedance is a method used to analyze the body composition of a user, it is generally made through scales or electronic devices using similar wet electrodes as for ECG.
  • Upper body composition analyzing devices have been developed lately in the form of handles or watches.
  • Performing an ECG using a watch requires the user to stop moving and use both hands.
  • Earbuds such as wireless earbuds are worn for a large part of the day by the users, just like watches.
  • conventional earbuds are not configured to perform any medical or health measurement. Adding medical features to such devices would extend the functionalities of such devices.
  • earbuds create a more stable location for biosensors. Wristwatches generate parasitic noise on the measured bio signal because the wrist moves independently from the body, adding noise to the one already created by body movement.
  • the tightening of a wristwatch is different from one person to another, and people who like to wear their wristwatches looser will create even more parasitic noise.
  • the ear on the contrary does not move compared to the body and the earbud can be placed firmly in the ear to minimize the movements between the earbud and the ear so that the measurement results can be improved.
  • an earbud 1 comprising:
  • an audio transducer disposed within the housing and arranged in the housing so that audio emitted by the audio transducer exits the housing through the first opening
  • At least one first electrode configured for contacting the inside of an ear of a user wearing the earbud
  • At least one second electrode configured for contacting a finger of the user, a sensor for detecting whether a finger of the user is placed on the second electrode
  • At least one biosensor coupled to the at least one first electrode and the at least one second electrode for performing a measurement of a biosignal of the user
  • processor 10 coupled to the sensor and biosensor, and - the processor being configured to initiate the measurement upon the sensor detecting a finger of the user on the second electrode.
  • the earbud enables an ECG or BIA measurement between the ear and the finger and enables a more convenient way of measurement requiring the use of only one hand of the user, the earbud being held stable inside the ear by the user pressing with a finger on the earbud.
  • the measurement of the biosignal of the user needs to be triggered (initiated). Therefore, automatic triggering of the measurement that leaves the user with one free hand while performing a measurement is an advantage. Further, in order to obtain frequent measurement even if these measurements are very short is an advantage for opportunistic detection of arrhythmias.
  • the automatic triggering immediately starts the measurement when the user touches the earbud the second electrode with his/her finger and robust enough to prevent false measurement triggering that could drain a battery of the earbud.
  • the use of a sensor for detecting the finger of the user touching the second electrode reduces the risk of inadvertent trigging of a measurement.
  • the earbud By providing the earbud with a first electrode facing the ear canal and a second electrode facing away from the users head, it becomes possible to perform an ECG or a BIA measurement by the user touching the second electrode, thereby pressing the earbud firmly into the user's ear canal, and thereby establishing good electrical contact between the first electrode and the skin of the user’s ear canal and between the first electrode and the skin of the user’s finger or hand and triggering a measurement.
  • This allows medical measurements to be added to earbuds. It also results in a good ECG signal because the heart is placed on the electrical path. Further, no wires are required to link body parts, resulting in a truly wireless measurement. Moreover, the number of electrodes can be reduced to a minimum.
  • ECG or BIA measurement becomes possible while standing. Moreover, it becomes possible to perform ECG or bioimpedance measurement using only one hand. Automatic triggering or measurement upon detection of a user pressing the earbud with a finger into his/her ear canal is enabled.
  • the senor comprises a pressure sensor and/or a capacitive sensor.
  • the pressure sensor or the capacitive sensor is associated with the first or second electrode.
  • the pressure sensor is arranged between the housing and the first or second electrode.
  • the at least one biosensor comprises an electrocardiography sensor.
  • the earbud comprises two first electrodes and/or two second electrodes.
  • the at least one biosensor comprises a bioimpedance sensor.
  • a pressure sensor is associated with each electrode and wherein the processor is configured to select at least one first and at least one second electrodes used for the measurement from the first and second electrodes associated with the pressure sensors indicating the highest pressures applied to the pressure sensors concerned.
  • the earbud comprises a temperature sensor configured for measuring a body temperature of a user, the temperature sensor preferably being arranged in the first electrode.
  • the processor is configured to initiate a body temperature measurement using the temperature sensor when the pressure sensor indicates that a pressure applied to the pressure sensor is above a first threshold.
  • the earbud comprises a pressure sensor and an electrocardiography sensor, wherein the processor is configured to continuously measure the pressure detected by the pressure sensor during an electrocardiography measurement for improving a Signal -to-Noise ratio of electrocardiography measurement.
  • the earbud comprises a rechargeable battery, and at least a first or second electrode is configured as a charging electrode for charging the rechargeable battery.
  • the first electrode and/or the second electrode are surface electrodes.
  • a layer of resilient material is arranged under the first or second electrode.
  • the earbud is configured to perform an electrocardiography and/or bioimpedance measurement in response to a measurement of the impedance between the skin of the user and the first electrode and/or of the impedance between the skin of the user and the second electrode.
  • the first electrode is arranged in such a way that it is to be in direct electrical contact with the surface of the ear canal or concha of the user when the earbud is positioned for use in an ear of the user.
  • the second electrode is arranged outside the ear of the user when the earbud is positioned for use in an ear of the user.
  • the opening is directed to the ear canal of the user when the earbud is positioned for use in an ear of the user.
  • the earbud comprises at least one of a rechargeable battery, a memory, a processor coupled to the first and second electrodes, and an RF module.
  • the electrical electrocardiography measurement and/or the bioimpedance measurement can be activated by voice command or by a signal from an external device, e.g. a smartphone, wirelessly coupled to the earbud.
  • the earbud is configured for wireless communication with an audio source.
  • a pair of a left earbud and a right earbud at least the left or right earbud being an earbud according to the first aspect or any possible implementation thereof.
  • the case is configured to charge the left earbud using at least the first or second electrode.
  • a method of performing an electrocardiography or a bioimpedance measurement, with an earbud comprising:
  • At least one first electrode configured for contacting the inside of an ear of a user wearing the earbud
  • At least one second electrode configured for contacting a finger of the user, a sensor for detecting whether a finger of the user is placed on the second electrode
  • the earbud comprises two first electrodes and/or two second electrodes and wherein a pressure sensor is associated with each first and second electrode, the method comprising selecting the first and second electrodes used for the measurement from the first and second electrodes associated with the pressure sensors indicating the highest pressures applied to the pressure sensors concerned.
  • Fig. 1 shows an inner and outer view, respectively of earbud according to an embodiment
  • Fig. 2 shows a front and rear view, respectively of the earbud of the embodiment of Fig. 1,
  • Fig. 3 illustrates the use of the earbud of the embodiment of Fig. 1 during a biometric measurement
  • Fig. 4 shows an inner and outer view of an earbud according to another embodiment
  • Fig. 5 shows an inner and outer view of an earbud according to another embodiment
  • Fig. 6 shows an inner and outer view of an earbud according to another embodiment
  • Fig. 7 shows an inner and outer view of an earbud according to another embodiment
  • Fig. 8 shows an inner and outer view of an earbud according to another embodiment
  • Fig. 9 shows an inner and outer view of an earbud according to another embodiment
  • Fig. 10 illustrates a resilient layer between the housing and an electrode of the earbud according to any of the previous embodiments
  • Fig. 11 illustrates a pressure sensor associated with an electrode of the earbud according to any of the previous embodiments
  • Fig. 12 illustrates an EGC sensor coupled to electrodes in an earbud according to any of the previous embodiments
  • Fig. 13 illustrates a bioimpedance sensor coupled to electrodes in an earbud according to any of the previous embodiments
  • Fig. 14 illustrates an impedance measurement using the electrodes of an earbud according to any of the previous embodiments
  • Fig. 15 is a diagrammatic representation of the components of the earbud according to any of the embodiments above.
  • Fig. 1 shows an embodiment of an earbud 1 with the inner view on earbud 1 on the left of Fig. 1 and the outer view on the earbud 1 on the right of Fig. 1.
  • Fig. 2 shows a front and rear view, respectively of the earbud of the embodiment of Fig. 1, illustrating the placement of the first and second electrodes 5, 6 on the housing 2 of the earbud 1.
  • the earbud 1 is at least partially inserted into the ear canal (concha) of the user.
  • the earbud 1 shown in Fig. 1 is configured for use in the left ear of the user. However, it should be understood that the earbud 1 could also be configured for use in the right ear of the user.
  • inner view is meant the view on the earbud 1 on the side of the earbud 1 that faces the user of the earbud 1 when the earbud 1 is (partially) inserted into the ear canal of the user and by “outer view” is meant the view on the earbud 1 on the side of the earbud 1 that faces away from the head of a user when the earbud 1 is partially inserted into the ear canal of the user.
  • the earbud 1 is provided with a housing 2 that is shaped and sized in a way that renders it suitable for insertion into the ear canal (either the left or the right ear canal of a typical user).
  • the housing 2 defines a first opening 3 and a second opening 4.
  • An audio transducer (speaker) 13 (Fig. 15) is disposed within the housing 2 and arranged in the housing 2 so that audio emitted by the audio transducer 13 exits the housing 2 through the first opening 3.
  • the first opening 3 is arranged in the housing 2 in such a way that the opening is substantially directed towards the ear canal of the user when the earbud 1 is at least partially inserted into the ear canal of the user.
  • the optional second opening 4 allows air in and out of the interior of the housing 2, thereby facilitating the performance of the speaker 13.
  • the earbud 1 is provided with a second audio transducer (not shown) in the form of a microphone.
  • the earbud 1 is provided with at least one first electrode 5.
  • the first electrode 5 is a surface electrode arranged in or on the surface of the housing 2, with the surface of the electrode forming a portion of the outer surface of the earbud 1.
  • the first electrode is arranged on the housing 2, and sized and shaped such that it is likely to be in contact with the inside (the skin) of the ear of the user of the earbud 1 when the earbud 1 is positioned for use in the ear of the user.
  • the first electrode 5 is typically arranged at least mainly on the side of the earbud 1 that faces towards the user when in use in an ear of the user (the inner side).
  • the first electrode 5 is an outline in the shape of a rounded rectangle, but it is understood that other shapes, such as a circular shape, an elliptical shape, a triangular shape, or a squared shape are also suitable.
  • the optimal shape, size, and location of the first electrode 5 will depend on the shape and size of the earbud 1 and can easily be determined by simple trial and error.
  • the earbud 1 is also provided with at least one second electrode 6.
  • the second electrode 6 is a surface electrode arranged in or on the surface of the housing 2 with the surface of the electrode forming a portion of the outer surface of the earbud 1.
  • the second electrode 6 is arranged on the housing 2, and sized and shaped such that it is easy for the user to touch the second electrode 6 with one of his/her fingers when the user presses the earbud 1 into his/her ear and the earbud 1 is positioned for use in an ear of the user.
  • the second electrode 6 is arranged such that the user contacts and presses the earbud 1 when pressing the earbud into the left ear with a finger of the user’s left arm.
  • the second electrode 6 is typically arranged at least mainly on the side of the earbud 1 that faces away from the user when in use.
  • the second electrode 6 is preferably arranged so that is located outside the ear canal of the user when the earbud 1 is positioned for use in the ear of the user, so the user can touch the second electrode 6 with a finger.
  • the second electrode 6 is preferably arranged outward relative to the ear of the user so that the second electrode 6 is exposed and can be touched by a finger of the user when the earbud 1 is positioned for use in an ear of the user.
  • the second electrode 6 has an outline in the shape of a circle, but it is understood that other shapes, such as a circular shape, an elliptical shape, a triangular shape, a squared shape or a rectangular shape are also suitable.
  • the optimal shape, size, and location of the second electrode 6 will depend on the shape and size of the earbud 1 and can easily be determined by simple trial and error.
  • the gesture used to make perform a bio measurement with the earbud 1 is shown in Fig. 3.
  • the gesture is shown in relation to a left earbud 1 of a pair of earbuds, but it is understood that it could also be applied to the right earbud 1 of a pair of earbuds.
  • the gesture includes the user moving his/her hand with a pointed finger to the earbud 1 and to press the earbud 1 into the ear canal of the user.
  • the second electrode 6 faces away from the ear canal and is therefore readily accessible for touching with a finger of the user. By pressing the earbud 1 into the ear canal with his/her finger, the finger makes contact with the second electrode 6 and an electrical connection between the electrode and the finger is established.
  • the earbud 1 is configured to automatically perform an electrocardiography and/or bioimpedance measurement upon a user pressing the earbud 1 with a finger into his/her ear canal.
  • the automatic triggering of the bio measurement is triggered by a sensor that will be described here below.
  • the first electrode 5 and the second electrode 6, can be used as charging electrode, to provide an earbud 1 with two charging electrodes for charging a battery 12 of the earbud 1.
  • Fig. 4 shows an embodiment of the earbud 1 with two first electrodes 5.
  • structures and features that are the same or similar to corresponding structures and features previously described or shown herein are denoted by the same reference numeral as previously used for simplicity.
  • the provision of two first electrodes 5 enhances the chance of one of the first electrodes 5 having good electrical contact with the skin of the ear canal of the user i.e. a contact that provides electrical connection to the skin of the user with a low impedance.
  • the two first electrodes 5 can be used as charging electrodes, to provide an earbud 1 with two charging electrodes for charging a battery 12 of the earbud 1.
  • Fig. 5 shows another embodiment of the earbud 1.
  • the earbud 1 of this embodiment has a charging electrode 7 at the distal end of the earbud 1.
  • the charging electrode 7 is connected to a rechargeable battery 12 (Fig. 15) of the earbud 1, for charging the rechargeable battery 12.
  • the distal end of the earbud 1 is in an embodiment provided with a third opening (not shown) allowing a microphone (not shown) to capture sound from the user’s mouth.
  • a first electrode 5 or a second electrode 6 can be used as charging electrode in combination with the charging electrod 7, to provide an earbud with two charging electrodes.
  • Fig. 6 shows an embodiment of the earbud 1 with two first electrodes 5 and two second electrodes 6.
  • structures and features that are the same or similar to corresponding structures and features previously described or shown herein are denoted by the same reference numeral as previously used for simplicity.
  • the provision of two second electrodes 6 enhances the chance of one of the second electrodes 6 having good contact with the skin of the finger of the user i.e. a contact that provides electrical connection to the skin of the user with a low impedance.
  • the two first electrodes 5, the two second electrodes 6, or a first electrode 5 and a second electrode 6, can be used as charging electrodes, to provide an earbud 1 with two charging electrodes for charging a battery 12 of the earbud 1.
  • Fig. 7 is an embodiment with an alternative of the earbud 1, with two first electrodes 5 in a different configuration compared to the embodiments above.
  • the two first electrodes 5 both have an oblong outline with an orientation that is different from irritation shown in the embodiments above.
  • the optimal shape, orientation, and size of the pair of first electrodes 5 for ensuring electrical contact with the surface of the ear canal the user can easily be determined by simple trial and error.
  • Fig. 8 shows an embodiment of the earbud 1.
  • the earbud 1 has a temperature sensor 7.
  • the temperature sensor 7 is placed in or on the housing 2, on the side of the earbud 1 that faces the user when the earbud is in use partially inserted into the ear canal the user.
  • the temperature sensor 7 is coupled to the processor 10, and in an embodiment, the processor 10 is configured to measure or estimate the temperature of the user, in particular, to measure or estimate the core temperature of the user.
  • the earbud 1 is in an embodiment provided with a capacitive sensor 19.
  • the capacitive sensor 19 is coupled to a processor 10 (Fig. 15) of the earbud 1, and the processor 10 is configured to use the signal of the capacitive sensor 19 to initiate an electrocardiography measurement or a bioimpedance measurement.
  • the processor 10 is configured to initiate an electrocardiography measurement or bioimpedance measurement when the signal from the capacitive sensor 19 indicates a finger or other body part touching the capacitive sensor 19 or an outer surface of the earbud associated with the capacitive sensor 19.
  • the capacitive sensor 19 is provided on the outer side of the earbud 1, so that the capacitive sensor 19 faces away from the user when the earbud 1 is (partially) inserted in the ear of the user.
  • the capacitive sensor 19 is arranged integrally with or under the second electrode 6.
  • the capacitive sensor 19 may be arranged under the second electrode 6 but at the same time extend laterally outside the boundary of the second electrode 19.
  • Fig. 9 and Fig. 10 illustrate another embodiment of the earbud 1.
  • the earbud 1 according to this embodiment is provided with a layer of resilient material 8 under the first electrode 5 and/or second electrode 6.
  • a bezel 15 is arranged around the first electrode 5 and a bezel 16 is arranged around the second electrode 6.
  • the layer of resilient material 8 allows the first and second electrode 5, 6 to move in response to pressure being exerted on the respective electrode 5, 6.
  • the layer 8 of resilient material is a foam, preferably a resilient foam.
  • Fig. 11 illustrates an embodiment that is based on the embodiment of Figs. 9 and 10, with a pressure sensor 9 arranged between the first and second electrode 5, 6 and the layer of resilient material 8.
  • the pressure sensor 9 is arranged directly between the electrodes 5,6 concerned and housing 2.
  • the pressure sensor is an integral part of the first or second electrode 5,6.
  • Fig. 12 is a diagrammatic representation of the connection between the electrocardiography sensor 17 and the first and second electrodes 5, 6.
  • the electrocardiography sensor 17 is connected to at least one first electrode 5 and to at least one second electrode 6.
  • the interrupted lines in Fig. 12 illustrate the side of the housing 2 of the earbud 1 that in use in the ear of the user is directed towards the ear canal (the interrupted line between the electrocardiography sensor 17 and the first electrodes 5) and the side of the housing 2 of the earbud 1 that in use in the ear the user is directed away from the canal (interrupted line between the electrocardiography sensor 17 and the second electrodes 6).
  • the electrocardiography sensor 17 is directly hardwired to the first electrodes 5 and the second electrodes 6.
  • the electrocardiography sensor 17 is configured to measure over a time interval electrical signals generated by the heart using the first and second electrodes 5,6.
  • Fig. 13 is a diagrammatic representation of the connection between the bioimpedance sensor 18 and the first and second electrodes 5, 6.
  • the bioimpedance sensor 18 is connected to at least one first electrode 5 and to at least one second electrode 6.
  • the interrupted lines inf Fig. 12 illustrates the side of the housing 2 of the earbud 1 that in use in the ear of the user is directed towards the ear canal (the interrupted line between the bioimpedance sensor 18 and the first electrodes 5) and the side of the housing 2 of the earbud 1 that in use in the ear the user is directed away from the canal (interrupted line between the patient sensor 18 and the second electrodes 6).
  • the biometric impedance sensor 17 is directly hardwired to the first electrodes 5 and the second electrodes 6.
  • the bioimpedance measurement is an embodiment launched automatically by periodically checking of impedance values between the electrodes 5,6, to detect a sudden decrease in impedance value caused by the user contacting a second external electrode 6, by a signal from the pressure sensor 9, or by a signal from an external unit, such as a smartphone connected to the earbud 1 or by a voice command registered by the earbud 1.
  • a bioimpedance measurement is launched when the pressure sensor 9 or the capacitive sensor 19 detects the presence of a finger of the user on a second electrode 6.
  • Fig. 14 illustrates a bioimpedance measurement.
  • the bioimpedance sensor 18 injects a current using one of the first electrodes 5 and one of the second electrodes 6 (In Fig. 14 the upper first electrode 5 and the upper second electrode 6) through the body of the user.
  • the voltage difference between the other first electrode 5 and the other second electrodes 6 is measured and from the magnitude of the voltage the electrical resistance (bioimpedance) is determined.
  • the injected current can be an alternating current. Different frequencies for the alternating current can be used to determine bioimpedance in different ways and targeted to different parts of the composition of the body/arm.
  • Fig. 15 is a diagrammatic representation of electrical components of the earbud 1.
  • the earbud 1 is provided with a memory 11 coupled to a processor 10, a rechargeable battery 12, a speaker 13, an RF (Bluetooth) module 14, an electrocardiography sensor 17, a biometric impedance sensor 18.
  • a bus 20 couples a processor 10 to a processor 10.
  • the processor 10 is configured to initiate and perform a bio measurement (ECG and/or BIA) or in response to a signal from the pressure sensor 9 or from the capacitive sensor 19 indicating that a finger of the user is present on the respective sensor 9,19.
  • a bio measurement ECG and/or BIA
  • a pressure sensor 9 is associated with each first and second electrode 5,6 and the processor 10 is configured to select first and second electrodes 5,6 used for the measurement from the first and second electrodes 5,6 associated with the pressure sensors 9 indicating the highest pressures applied to the pressure sensors concerned 9.
  • the processor 10 is configured to periodically measure the skin impedance of at least one first electrode 5 and at least one second electrode 6 to determine if impedance between the skin of the user and the electrode concerned is below a predetermined threshold.
  • the processor 10 is configured to automatically initiate a bioimpedance measurement and/or an electrocardiography measurement when the skin impedance of at least one first electrode 5 and at least one second electrode 6 is measured to be below a predetermined threshold.
  • the processor 10 can be configured to either initiate the bioimpedance measurement first and the electrocardiography measurement thereafter, or vice versa.
  • the processor 10 is configured to analyze the data from the respective measurements and in an embodiment the processor 10 is configured to transmit the result of the analysis to a remote device, such as for example a smartphone, via RF, i.e. using the Bluetooth module 14.
  • either the electrocardiography sensor 17 or the processor 10 is configured to process the signal from the first and second electrodes 5, 6 and to derive therefrom heart rate, Inter-Beat Interval and/or heart rate variability. In an embodiment, the electrocardiography sensor 17 or the processor 10 is configured to detect fibrillation.
  • the electrocardiography sensor 17 and/or the processor 10 is configured for measuring which of the electrodes 5, 6 has the best contact to the skin of the user, i.e. which of the electrodes 5, 6 have a good electrical connection with the skin of the user with the lowest impedance. Further, the electrocardiography sensor 17 and/or the processor 10 configured to select the three electrodes 5.6 with the best electric contact (lowest skin impedance) and to use the selected electrodes 5, 6 when performing an electrocardiography measurement.
  • the processor 10 is configured to continuously measure the pressure detected by the pressure sensor 9 during an electrocardiography measurement for improving a Signal-to-Noise ratio of electrocardiography measurement.
  • the bioimpedance sensor 18 or the processor 10 is configured to process the signal from the first and second electrodes 5, 6, and to determine the composition of the arm of the user.
  • the impedance sensor 18 or the processor 10 is configured to use a model to extend the composition of the arm to the body composition of the user, to determine e.g. water content, fat content and/or bone mass.
  • the processor 10 is configured to initiate a body temperature measurement using the temperature sensor 7 when a pressure sensor 9 indicates that a pressure applied to the pressure sensor 9 is above a first threshold.
  • the earbud 1 is part of a pair of earbuds.
  • the pair of earbuds can comprise an earbud 1 according to this disclosure and a conventional earbud or a pair of two earbuds 1 according to the present disclosure.
  • the earbuds (1) in pair of earbuds are in embodiment wirelessly connected to one another, using e.g. the Bluetooth module 14.
  • a computer program may be stored/distributed on a suitable medium, such as an optical storage medium or a solid-state medium supplied together with or as part of other hardware, but may also be distributed in other forms, such as via the Internet or other wired or wireless telecommunication systems.
  • a suitable medium such as an optical storage medium or a solid-state medium supplied together with or as part of other hardware, but may also be distributed in other forms, such as via the Internet or other wired or wireless telecommunication systems.

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Abstract

An earbud (1) having a first electrode (5) and a second electrode (6) coupled to a biosensor (17, 18) for performing a biosignal measurement, and a method of performing a biometric measurement using an earbud (1) having first electrode (5) and a second electrode (6).

Description

Earbud having biometric sensing capacities and a method for performing a biometric measurement
TECHNICAL FIELD
The disclosure relates to earbud (a small earphone worn in the ear), and particularly to an earbud having biometric sensing capacities and to a method for performing a biometric measurement.
BACKGROUND
Electrocardiography (ECG) is a method that measures the electrical activity generated by heart muscle depolarizations, which propagate in pulsating electrical waves towards the skin, by measuring the potential difference between two points on the body. The medical measurement of an ECG requires the use of 12 wet electrodes placed on the chest and limbs of the patient. This measurement is useful to detect cardiac problems such as arrhythmias which is why it has been widely investigated if it was possible to embed such measurement in watches. In this configuration, the potential difference between the two hands is linked to the potential difference found on the horizontal part of the heart since the electric loop formed by the arms passes horizontally through the heart. One problem that can be observed with these devices is that it requires using both hands/arms so that the user concerned cannot use their hands for anything else whilst performing the measurement. Furthermore, it requires the user not to move during the measurement, so that the wrist wearing the watch will not move too much to prevent damaging the ECG signal. As a result, performing this measurement can under circumstances be challenging for a user to perform.
Bioimpedance is a method used to analyze the body composition of a user, it is generally made through scales or electronic devices using similar wet electrodes as for ECG. Upper body composition analyzing devices have been developed lately in the form of handles or watches.
Performing an ECG using a watch requires the user to stop moving and use both hands.
Other solutions for wearable devices that can perform an ECG and/or a bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA)/bioimpedance measurement involve wires. The use of wires that are otherwise not needed for other functions of the wearable device is a nuisance and not optimal, since these wires will require storage solutions and risk getting entangled.
SUMMARY
It is an object of this disclosure to make ECG and BIA measurements available in the form factor of an earbud.
Earbuds, such as wireless earbuds are worn for a large part of the day by the users, just like watches. However, conventional earbuds are not configured to perform any medical or health measurement. Adding medical features to such devices would extend the functionalities of such devices. Furthermore, unlike watches, earbuds create a more stable location for biosensors. Wristwatches generate parasitic noise on the measured bio signal because the wrist moves independently from the body, adding noise to the one already created by body movement. In addition, the tightening of a wristwatch is different from one person to another, and people who like to wear their wristwatches looser will create even more parasitic noise. The ear on the contrary does not move compared to the body and the earbud can be placed firmly in the ear to minimize the movements between the earbud and the ear so that the measurement results can be improved.
The foregoing and other objects are achieved by the features of the independent claims. Further implementation forms are apparent from the dependent claims, the description, and the figures.
According to a first aspect, there is provided an earbud 1 comprising:
- a housing having a first opening,
- an audio transducer disposed within the housing and arranged in the housing so that audio emitted by the audio transducer exits the housing through the first opening,
- at least one first electrode configured for contacting the inside of an ear of a user wearing the earbud,
- at least one second electrode configured for contacting a finger of the user, a sensor for detecting whether a finger of the user is placed on the second electrode,
- at least one biosensor coupled to the at least one first electrode and the at least one second electrode for performing a measurement of a biosignal of the user,
- a processor 10 coupled to the sensor and biosensor, and - the processor being configured to initiate the measurement upon the sensor detecting a finger of the user on the second electrode.
The earbud enables an ECG or BIA measurement between the ear and the finger and enables a more convenient way of measurement requiring the use of only one hand of the user, the earbud being held stable inside the ear by the user pressing with a finger on the earbud.
The measurement of the biosignal of the user needs to be triggered (initiated). Therefore, automatic triggering of the measurement that leaves the user with one free hand while performing a measurement is an advantage. Further, in order to obtain frequent measurement even if these measurements are very short is an advantage for opportunistic detection of arrhythmias.
The automatic triggering immediately starts the measurement when the user touches the earbud the second electrode with his/her finger and robust enough to prevent false measurement triggering that could drain a battery of the earbud. The use of a sensor for detecting the finger of the user touching the second electrode reduces the risk of inadvertent trigging of a measurement.
By providing the earbud with a first electrode facing the ear canal and a second electrode facing away from the users head, it becomes possible to perform an ECG or a BIA measurement by the user touching the second electrode, thereby pressing the earbud firmly into the user's ear canal, and thereby establishing good electrical contact between the first electrode and the skin of the user’s ear canal and between the first electrode and the skin of the user’s finger or hand and triggering a measurement. This allows medical measurements to be added to earbuds. It also results in a good ECG signal because the heart is placed on the electrical path. Further, no wires are required to link body parts, resulting in a truly wireless measurement. Moreover, the number of electrodes can be reduced to a minimum. Performing an ECG or BIA measurement becomes possible while standing. Moreover, it becomes possible to perform ECG or bioimpedance measurement using only one hand. Automatic triggering or measurement upon detection of a user pressing the earbud with a finger into his/her ear canal is enabled.
According to a possible implementation of the first aspect, the sensor comprises a pressure sensor and/or a capacitive sensor. According to a possible implementation of the first aspect, the pressure sensor or the capacitive sensor is associated with the first or second electrode.
According to a possible implementation of the first aspect, the pressure sensor is arranged between the housing and the first or second electrode.
According to a possible implementation of the first aspect, the at least one biosensor comprises an electrocardiography sensor.
According to a possible implementation of the first aspect, the earbud comprises two first electrodes and/or two second electrodes.
According to a possible implementation of the first aspect, the at least one biosensor comprises a bioimpedance sensor.
According to a possible implementation of the first aspect, a pressure sensor is associated with each electrode and wherein the processor is configured to select at least one first and at least one second electrodes used for the measurement from the first and second electrodes associated with the pressure sensors indicating the highest pressures applied to the pressure sensors concerned.
According to a possible implementation of the first aspect, the earbud comprises a temperature sensor configured for measuring a body temperature of a user, the temperature sensor preferably being arranged in the first electrode.
According to a possible implementation of the first aspect, the processor is configured to initiate a body temperature measurement using the temperature sensor when the pressure sensor indicates that a pressure applied to the pressure sensor is above a first threshold.
According to a possible implementation of the first aspect, the earbud comprises a pressure sensor and an electrocardiography sensor, wherein the processor is configured to continuously measure the pressure detected by the pressure sensor during an electrocardiography measurement for improving a Signal -to-Noise ratio of electrocardiography measurement. According to a possible implementation of the first aspect, the earbud comprises a rechargeable battery, and at least a first or second electrode is configured as a charging electrode for charging the rechargeable battery.
According to a possible implementation of the first aspect, the first electrode and/or the second electrode are surface electrodes.
According to a possible implementation of the first aspect, a layer of resilient material is arranged under the first or second electrode.
According to a possible implementation of the first aspect, the earbud is configured to perform an electrocardiography and/or bioimpedance measurement in response to a measurement of the impedance between the skin of the user and the first electrode and/or of the impedance between the skin of the user and the second electrode.
According to a possible implementation of the first aspect, the first electrode is arranged in such a way that it is to be in direct electrical contact with the surface of the ear canal or concha of the user when the earbud is positioned for use in an ear of the user.
According to a possible implementation of the first aspect, the second electrode is arranged outside the ear of the user when the earbud is positioned for use in an ear of the user.
According to a possible implementation of the first aspect, the opening is directed to the ear canal of the user when the earbud is positioned for use in an ear of the user.
According to a possible implementation of the first aspect, the earbud comprises at least one of a rechargeable battery, a memory, a processor coupled to the first and second electrodes, and an RF module.
In a possible implementation of the first aspect, the electrical electrocardiography measurement and/or the bioimpedance measurement can be activated by voice command or by a signal from an external device, e.g. a smartphone, wirelessly coupled to the earbud. According to a possible implementation of the first aspect, the earbud is configured for wireless communication with an audio source.
According to a second aspect, there is provided a pair of a left earbud and a right earbud, at least the left or right earbud being an earbud according to the first aspect or any possible implementation thereof.
According to a third aspect, there is provided an assembly of a case for receiving and charging earbuds and a pair of a left earbud and a right earbud according to the second aspect.
In a possible implementation of the third aspect, the case is configured to charge the left earbud using at least the first or second electrode.
According to a fourth aspect, there is provided a method of performing an electrocardiography or a bioimpedance measurement, with an earbud comprising:
- at least one first electrode configured for contacting the inside of an ear of a user wearing the earbud,
- at least one second electrode configured for contacting a finger of the user, a sensor for detecting whether a finger of the user is placed on the second electrode,
- at least one biosensor coupled to the at least one first electrode and to the at least one second electrode for performing a measurement of a biosignal of the user, the method comprising:
- detecting with the sensor whether a finger of the user is placed on the second electrode, and
- measuring a biosignal of the user using the first and second electrode upon the sensor detecting that a finger of the user is placed on the second electrode.
In a possible implementation of the fourth aspect, the earbud comprises two first electrodes and/or two second electrodes and wherein a pressure sensor is associated with each first and second electrode, the method comprising selecting the first and second electrodes used for the measurement from the first and second electrodes associated with the pressure sensors indicating the highest pressures applied to the pressure sensors concerned.
These and other aspects will be apparent from the embodiments described below. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
In the following detailed portion of the present disclosure, the aspects, embodiments, and implementations will be explained in more detail with reference to the example embodiments shown in the drawings, in which:
Fig. 1 shows an inner and outer view, respectively of earbud according to an embodiment,
Fig. 2 shows a front and rear view, respectively of the earbud of the embodiment of Fig. 1,
Fig. 3 illustrates the use of the earbud of the embodiment of Fig. 1 during a biometric measurement,
Fig. 4 shows an inner and outer view of an earbud according to another embodiment,
Fig. 5 shows an inner and outer view of an earbud according to another embodiment,
Fig. 6 shows an inner and outer view of an earbud according to another embodiment,
Fig. 7 shows an inner and outer view of an earbud according to another embodiment,
Fig. 8 shows an inner and outer view of an earbud according to another embodiment,
Fig. 9 shows an inner and outer view of an earbud according to another embodiment,
Fig. 10 illustrates a resilient layer between the housing and an electrode of the earbud according to any of the previous embodiments,
Fig. 11 illustrates a pressure sensor associated with an electrode of the earbud according to any of the previous embodiments,
Fig. 12 illustrates an EGC sensor coupled to electrodes in an earbud according to any of the previous embodiments,
Fig. 13 illustrates a bioimpedance sensor coupled to electrodes in an earbud according to any of the previous embodiments,
Fig. 14 illustrates an impedance measurement using the electrodes of an earbud according to any of the previous embodiments, and
Fig. 15 is a diagrammatic representation of the components of the earbud according to any of the embodiments above.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Fig. 1 shows an embodiment of an earbud 1 with the inner view on earbud 1 on the left of Fig. 1 and the outer view on the earbud 1 on the right of Fig. 1. Fig. 2 shows a front and rear view, respectively of the earbud of the embodiment of Fig. 1, illustrating the placement of the first and second electrodes 5, 6 on the housing 2 of the earbud 1. During use, the earbud 1 is at least partially inserted into the ear canal (concha) of the user. The earbud 1 shown in Fig. 1 is configured for use in the left ear of the user. However, it should be understood that the earbud 1 could also be configured for use in the right ear of the user. By “inner view” is meant the view on the earbud 1 on the side of the earbud 1 that faces the user of the earbud 1 when the earbud 1 is (partially) inserted into the ear canal of the user and by “outer view” is meant the view on the earbud 1 on the side of the earbud 1 that faces away from the head of a user when the earbud 1 is partially inserted into the ear canal of the user.
The earbud 1 is provided with a housing 2 that is shaped and sized in a way that renders it suitable for insertion into the ear canal (either the left or the right ear canal of a typical user). The housing 2 defines a first opening 3 and a second opening 4. An audio transducer (speaker) 13 (Fig. 15) is disposed within the housing 2 and arranged in the housing 2 so that audio emitted by the audio transducer 13 exits the housing 2 through the first opening 3. The first opening 3 is arranged in the housing 2 in such a way that the opening is substantially directed towards the ear canal of the user when the earbud 1 is at least partially inserted into the ear canal of the user. The optional second opening 4 allows air in and out of the interior of the housing 2, thereby facilitating the performance of the speaker 13. In an embodiment, the earbud 1 is provided with a second audio transducer (not shown) in the form of a microphone.
The earbud 1 is provided with at least one first electrode 5. The first electrode 5 is a surface electrode arranged in or on the surface of the housing 2, with the surface of the electrode forming a portion of the outer surface of the earbud 1. The first electrode is arranged on the housing 2, and sized and shaped such that it is likely to be in contact with the inside (the skin) of the ear of the user of the earbud 1 when the earbud 1 is positioned for use in the ear of the user. The first electrode 5 is typically arranged at least mainly on the side of the earbud 1 that faces towards the user when in use in an ear of the user (the inner side). In the embodiment shown, the first electrode 5 is an outline in the shape of a rounded rectangle, but it is understood that other shapes, such as a circular shape, an elliptical shape, a triangular shape, or a squared shape are also suitable. The optimal shape, size, and location of the first electrode 5 will depend on the shape and size of the earbud 1 and can easily be determined by simple trial and error.
The earbud 1 is also provided with at least one second electrode 6. The second electrode 6 is a surface electrode arranged in or on the surface of the housing 2 with the surface of the electrode forming a portion of the outer surface of the earbud 1. The second electrode 6 is arranged on the housing 2, and sized and shaped such that it is easy for the user to touch the second electrode 6 with one of his/her fingers when the user presses the earbud 1 into his/her ear and the earbud 1 is positioned for use in an ear of the user. When the earbud 1 is intended for use in the left ear, the second electrode 6 is arranged such that the user contacts and presses the earbud 1 when pressing the earbud into the left ear with a finger of the user’s left arm. The second electrode 6 is typically arranged at least mainly on the side of the earbud 1 that faces away from the user when in use. The second electrode 6 is preferably arranged so that is located outside the ear canal of the user when the earbud 1 is positioned for use in the ear of the user, so the user can touch the second electrode 6 with a finger. The second electrode 6 is preferably arranged outward relative to the ear of the user so that the second electrode 6 is exposed and can be touched by a finger of the user when the earbud 1 is positioned for use in an ear of the user. In the embodiment shown, the second electrode 6 has an outline in the shape of a circle, but it is understood that other shapes, such as a circular shape, an elliptical shape, a triangular shape, a squared shape or a rectangular shape are also suitable. The optimal shape, size, and location of the second electrode 6 will depend on the shape and size of the earbud 1 and can easily be determined by simple trial and error.
The gesture used to make perform a bio measurement with the earbud 1 is shown in Fig. 3. The gesture is shown in relation to a left earbud 1 of a pair of earbuds, but it is understood that it could also be applied to the right earbud 1 of a pair of earbuds. The gesture includes the user moving his/her hand with a pointed finger to the earbud 1 and to press the earbud 1 into the ear canal of the user. The second electrode 6 faces away from the ear canal and is therefore readily accessible for touching with a finger of the user. By pressing the earbud 1 into the ear canal with his/her finger, the finger makes contact with the second electrode 6 and an electrical connection between the electrode and the finger is established. Further, the earbud is pressed into the ear canal, thereby creating direct physical contact between the first electrode 5 and the surface of the ear canal of the user, thereby establishing an electrical connection between the first electrode 5 and the surface of the ear canal of the user. The earbud 1 is configured to automatically perform an electrocardiography and/or bioimpedance measurement upon a user pressing the earbud 1 with a finger into his/her ear canal. The automatic triggering of the bio measurement is triggered by a sensor that will be described here below.
The first electrode 5 and the second electrode 6, can be used as charging electrode, to provide an earbud 1 with two charging electrodes for charging a battery 12 of the earbud 1. Fig. 4 shows an embodiment of the earbud 1 with two first electrodes 5. In this embodiment, structures and features that are the same or similar to corresponding structures and features previously described or shown herein are denoted by the same reference numeral as previously used for simplicity. The provision of two first electrodes 5 enhances the chance of one of the first electrodes 5 having good electrical contact with the skin of the ear canal of the user i.e. a contact that provides electrical connection to the skin of the user with a low impedance.
The two first electrodes 5 can be used as charging electrodes, to provide an earbud 1 with two charging electrodes for charging a battery 12 of the earbud 1.
Fig. 5 shows another embodiment of the earbud 1. In this embodiment, structures and features that are the same or similar to corresponding structures and features previously described or shown herein are denoted by the same reference numeral as previously used for simplicity. The earbud 1 of this embodiment has a charging electrode 7 at the distal end of the earbud 1. The charging electrode 7 is connected to a rechargeable battery 12 (Fig. 15) of the earbud 1, for charging the rechargeable battery 12. The distal end of the earbud 1 is in an embodiment provided with a third opening (not shown) allowing a microphone (not shown) to capture sound from the user’s mouth. In this embodiment, either a first electrode 5 or a second electrode 6, can be used as charging electrode in combination with the charging electrod 7, to provide an earbud with two charging electrodes.
Fig. 6 shows an embodiment of the earbud 1 with two first electrodes 5 and two second electrodes 6. In this embodiment, structures and features that are the same or similar to corresponding structures and features previously described or shown herein are denoted by the same reference numeral as previously used for simplicity. The provision of two second electrodes 6 enhances the chance of one of the second electrodes 6 having good contact with the skin of the finger of the user i.e. a contact that provides electrical connection to the skin of the user with a low impedance. The two first electrodes 5, the two second electrodes 6, or a first electrode 5 and a second electrode 6, can be used as charging electrodes, to provide an earbud 1 with two charging electrodes for charging a battery 12 of the earbud 1.
Fig. 7 is an embodiment with an alternative of the earbud 1, with two first electrodes 5 in a different configuration compared to the embodiments above. In this embodiment, the two first electrodes 5 both have an oblong outline with an orientation that is different from irritation shown in the embodiments above. The optimal shape, orientation, and size of the pair of first electrodes 5 for ensuring electrical contact with the surface of the ear canal the user can easily be determined by simple trial and error.
Fig. 8 shows an embodiment of the earbud 1. In this embodiment, structures and features that are the same or similar to corresponding structures and features previously described or shown herein are denoted by the same reference numeral as previously used for simplicity. This embodiment the earbud 1 has a temperature sensor 7. The temperature sensor 7 is placed in or on the housing 2, on the side of the earbud 1 that faces the user when the earbud is in use partially inserted into the ear canal the user. The temperature sensor 7 is coupled to the processor 10, and in an embodiment, the processor 10 is configured to measure or estimate the temperature of the user, in particular, to measure or estimate the core temperature of the user.
The earbud 1 is in an embodiment provided with a capacitive sensor 19. The capacitive sensor 19 is coupled to a processor 10 (Fig. 15) of the earbud 1, and the processor 10 is configured to use the signal of the capacitive sensor 19 to initiate an electrocardiography measurement or a bioimpedance measurement. In an embodiment, the processor 10 is configured to initiate an electrocardiography measurement or bioimpedance measurement when the signal from the capacitive sensor 19 indicates a finger or other body part touching the capacitive sensor 19 or an outer surface of the earbud associated with the capacitive sensor 19. Preferably, the capacitive sensor 19 is provided on the outer side of the earbud 1, so that the capacitive sensor 19 faces away from the user when the earbud 1 is (partially) inserted in the ear of the user. In an embodiment, the capacitive sensor 19 is arranged integrally with or under the second electrode 6. The capacitive sensor 19 may be arranged under the second electrode 6 but at the same time extend laterally outside the boundary of the second electrode 19.
Fig. 9 and Fig. 10 illustrate another embodiment of the earbud 1. In this embodiment, structures and features that are the same or similar to corresponding structures and features previously described or shown herein are denoted by the same reference numeral as previously used for simplicity. The earbud 1 according to this embodiment is provided with a layer of resilient material 8 under the first electrode 5 and/or second electrode 6. A bezel 15 is arranged around the first electrode 5 and a bezel 16 is arranged around the second electrode 6. The layer of resilient material 8 allows the first and second electrode 5, 6 to move in response to pressure being exerted on the respective electrode 5, 6. In an embodiment, the layer 8 of resilient material is a foam, preferably a resilient foam.
Fig. 11 illustrates an embodiment that is based on the embodiment of Figs. 9 and 10, with a pressure sensor 9 arranged between the first and second electrode 5, 6 and the layer of resilient material 8. In another embodiment, the pressure sensor 9 is arranged directly between the electrodes 5,6 concerned and housing 2. Alternatively, the pressure sensor is an integral part of the first or second electrode 5,6.
Fig. 12 is a diagrammatic representation of the connection between the electrocardiography sensor 17 and the first and second electrodes 5, 6. The electrocardiography sensor 17 is connected to at least one first electrode 5 and to at least one second electrode 6. The interrupted lines in Fig. 12 illustrate the side of the housing 2 of the earbud 1 that in use in the ear of the user is directed towards the ear canal (the interrupted line between the electrocardiography sensor 17 and the first electrodes 5) and the side of the housing 2 of the earbud 1 that in use in the ear the user is directed away from the canal (interrupted line between the electrocardiography sensor 17 and the second electrodes 6). In the embodiment of Fig. 12, the electrocardiography sensor 17 is directly hardwired to the first electrodes 5 and the second electrodes 6. The electrocardiography sensor 17 is configured to measure over a time interval electrical signals generated by the heart using the first and second electrodes 5,6.
Fig. 13 is a diagrammatic representation of the connection between the bioimpedance sensor 18 and the first and second electrodes 5, 6. The bioimpedance sensor 18 is connected to at least one first electrode 5 and to at least one second electrode 6. The interrupted lines inf Fig. 12 illustrates the side of the housing 2 of the earbud 1 that in use in the ear of the user is directed towards the ear canal (the interrupted line between the bioimpedance sensor 18 and the first electrodes 5) and the side of the housing 2 of the earbud 1 that in use in the ear the user is directed away from the canal (interrupted line between the patient sensor 18 and the second electrodes 6). In the embodiment of Fig. 13, the biometric impedance sensor 17 is directly hardwired to the first electrodes 5 and the second electrodes 6.
The bioimpedance measurement is an embodiment launched automatically by periodically checking of impedance values between the electrodes 5,6, to detect a sudden decrease in impedance value caused by the user contacting a second external electrode 6, by a signal from the pressure sensor 9, or by a signal from an external unit, such as a smartphone connected to the earbud 1 or by a voice command registered by the earbud 1. A bioimpedance measurement is launched when the pressure sensor 9 or the capacitive sensor 19 detects the presence of a finger of the user on a second electrode 6.
Fig. 14 illustrates a bioimpedance measurement. The bioimpedance sensor 18 injects a current using one of the first electrodes 5 and one of the second electrodes 6 (In Fig. 14 the upper first electrode 5 and the upper second electrode 6) through the body of the user. The voltage difference between the other first electrode 5 and the other second electrodes 6 (in Fig. 14 the lower first electrode 5 and the lower second electrode 6) is measured and from the magnitude of the voltage the electrical resistance (bioimpedance) is determined. The injected current can be an alternating current. Different frequencies for the alternating current can be used to determine bioimpedance in different ways and targeted to different parts of the composition of the body/arm.
Fig. 15 is a diagrammatic representation of electrical components of the earbud 1. In an embodiment, the earbud 1 is provided with a memory 11 coupled to a processor 10, a rechargeable battery 12, a speaker 13, an RF (Bluetooth) module 14, an electrocardiography sensor 17, a biometric impedance sensor 18. These electric components and the first and second electrodes 5,6 are connected by a bus 20. In the embodiments that comprise pressure sensors 9, a temperature sensor 7, a capacitive sensor 19, these respective centers are also connected to the other electric components by the bus 20.
The processor 10 is configured to initiate and perform a bio measurement (ECG and/or BIA) or in response to a signal from the pressure sensor 9 or from the capacitive sensor 19 indicating that a finger of the user is present on the respective sensor 9,19.
In an embodiment a pressure sensor 9 is associated with each first and second electrode 5,6 and the processor 10 is configured to select first and second electrodes 5,6 used for the measurement from the first and second electrodes 5,6 associated with the pressure sensors 9 indicating the highest pressures applied to the pressure sensors concerned 9. In an embodiment, the processor 10 is configured to periodically measure the skin impedance of at least one first electrode 5 and at least one second electrode 6 to determine if impedance between the skin of the user and the electrode concerned is below a predetermined threshold.
In an embodiment, the processor 10 is configured to automatically initiate a bioimpedance measurement and/or an electrocardiography measurement when the skin impedance of at least one first electrode 5 and at least one second electrode 6 is measured to be below a predetermined threshold. The processor 10 can be configured to either initiate the bioimpedance measurement first and the electrocardiography measurement thereafter, or vice versa. In an embodiment, the processor 10 is configured to analyze the data from the respective measurements and in an embodiment the processor 10 is configured to transmit the result of the analysis to a remote device, such as for example a smartphone, via RF, i.e. using the Bluetooth module 14.
In an embodiment, either the electrocardiography sensor 17 or the processor 10 is configured to process the signal from the first and second electrodes 5, 6 and to derive therefrom heart rate, Inter-Beat Interval and/or heart rate variability. In an embodiment, the electrocardiography sensor 17 or the processor 10 is configured to detect fibrillation.
In an embodiment, the electrocardiography sensor 17 and/or the processor 10 is configured for measuring which of the electrodes 5, 6 has the best contact to the skin of the user, i.e. which of the electrodes 5, 6 have a good electrical connection with the skin of the user with the lowest impedance. Further, the electrocardiography sensor 17 and/or the processor 10 configured to select the three electrodes 5.6 with the best electric contact (lowest skin impedance) and to use the selected electrodes 5, 6 when performing an electrocardiography measurement.
In an embodiment, the processor 10 is configured to continuously measure the pressure detected by the pressure sensor 9 during an electrocardiography measurement for improving a Signal-to-Noise ratio of electrocardiography measurement.
In an embodiment, the bioimpedance sensor 18 or the processor 10 is configured to process the signal from the first and second electrodes 5, 6, and to determine the composition of the arm of the user. In an embodiment, the impedance sensor 18 or the processor 10 is configured to use a model to extend the composition of the arm to the body composition of the user, to determine e.g. water content, fat content and/or bone mass.
In an embodiment, the processor 10 is configured to initiate a body temperature measurement using the temperature sensor 7 when a pressure sensor 9 indicates that a pressure applied to the pressure sensor 9 is above a first threshold.
In an embodiment, the earbud 1 is part of a pair of earbuds. The pair of earbuds can comprise an earbud 1 according to this disclosure and a conventional earbud or a pair of two earbuds 1 according to the present disclosure. The earbuds (1) in pair of earbuds are in embodiment wirelessly connected to one another, using e.g. the Bluetooth module 14.
The various aspects and implementations have been described in conjunction with various embodiments herein. However, other variations to the disclosed embodiments can be understood and effected by those skilled in the art in practicing the claimed subject-matter, from a study of the drawings, the disclosure, and the appended claims. 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 measured cannot be used to advantage. A computer program may be stored/distributed on a suitable medium, such as an optical storage medium or a solid-state medium supplied together with or as part of other hardware, but may also be distributed in other forms, such as via the Internet or other wired or wireless telecommunication systems.
The reference signs used in the claims shall not be construed as limiting the scope. Unless otherwise indicated, the drawings are intended to be read (e.g., cross-hatching, arrangement of parts, proportion, degree, etc.) together with the specification, and are to be considered a portion of the entire written description of this disclosure. As used in the description, the terms “horizontal”, “vertical”, “left”, “right”, “up” and “down”, as well as adjectival and adverbial derivatives thereof (e.g., “horizontally”, “rightwardly”, “upwardly”, etc.), simply refer to the orientation of the illustrated structure as the particular drawing figure faces the reader. Similarly, the terms “inwardly” and “outwardly” generally refer to the orientation of a surface relative to its axis of elongation, or axis of rotation, as appropriate.

Claims

1. An earbud (1) comprising:
- a housing (2) having a first opening (3),
- an audio transducer (13) disposed within the housing (2) and arranged in the housing (2) so that audio emitted by the audio transducer (13) exits the housing (2) through the first opening
(3),
- at least one first electrode (5) configured for contacting the inside of an ear of a user wearing the earbud (1),
- at least one second electrode (6) configured for contacting a finger of the user, a sensor for detecting whether a finger of the user is placed on the second electrode (6),
- at least one biosensor (17, 18) coupled to the at least one first electrode (5) and the at least one second electrode (6) for performing a measurement of a bio signal of the user,
- a processor (10) coupled to the sensor and biosensor (17,18), and
- the processor (10) being configured to initiate the measurement upon the sensor detecting a finger of the user on the second electrode (6).
2. The earbud (1) according to claim 1, wherein the sensor comprises a pressure sensor (9) and/or a capacitive sensor (19).
3. The earbud (1) according to claim 2, wherein the pressure sensor (9) or the capacitive sensor (19) is associated with the first or second electrode (5,6).
4. The earbud (1) according to claim 3, wherein the pressure sensor (9) is arranged between the housing (2) and the first or second electrode (5,6).
5. The earbud (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one biosensor comprises an electrocardiography sensor (17).
6. The earbud (1) according to any of the preceding claims, comprising two first electrodes (5) and/or two second electrodes (6).
7. The earbud (1) according to claim 6, wherein the at least one biosensor comprises a bioimpedance sensor (18).
8. The earbud (1) according to any one of claims 2 to 7, wherein a pressure sensor (9) is associated with each electrode (5,6) and wherein the processor (10) is configured to select at least one first and at least one second electrodes (5,6) used for the measurement from the first and second electrodes (5,6) associated with the pressure sensors (9) indicating the highest pressures applied to the pressure sensors concerned (9).
9. The earbud (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a temperature sensor (7) configured for measuring a body temperature of a user, the temperature sensor preferably (7) being arranged in the first electrode (5,6).
10. The earbud (1) according to claim 9, comprising a pressure sensor (9), wherein the processor (10) is configured to initiate a body temperature measurement using the temperature sensor (7) when the pressure sensor (9) indicates that a pressure applied to the pressure sensor (9) is above a first threshold.
11. The earbud (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a pressure sensor (9) and an electrocardiography sensor (17), wherein the processor (10) is configured to continuously measure the pressure detected by the pressure sensor (9) during an electrocardiography measurement for improving a Signal-to-Noise ratio of electrocardiography measurement.
12. The earbud (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a rechargeable battery (12), wherein at least a first or second electrode (5,6) is configured as a charging electrode for charging the rechargeable battery (12).
13. A pair of a left earbud (1) and a right earbud, at least the left or right earbud (1) being an earbud (1) according to any of claims 1 to 12.
14. A method of performing an electrocardiography or a bioimpedance measurement, with an earbud (1) comprising:
- at least one first electrode (5) configured for contacting the inside of an ear of a user wearing the earbud (1),
- at least one second electrode (6) configured for contacting a finger of the user, a sensor for detecting whether a finger of the user is placed on the second electrode (6),
- at least one biosensor (17, 18) coupled to the at least one first electrode (5) and to the at least one second electrode (6) for performing a measurement of a bio signal of the user, the method comprising: - detecting with the sensor whether a finger of the user is placed on the second electrode (6), and
- measuring a biosignal of the user using the first and second electrodes (5,6) upon the sensor detecting that a finger of the user is placed on the second electrode (6).
15. The method according to claim 14, wherein the earbud (1) comprises two first electrodes (5) and/or two second electrodes (6) and wherein a pressure sensor (9) is associated with each first and second electrode (5,6), the method comprising selecting the first and second electrodes (5,6) used for the measurement from the first and second electrodes (5,6) associated with the pressure sensors (9) indicating the highest pressures applied to the pressure sensors concerned (9).
PCT/EP2021/050233 2021-01-08 2021-01-08 Earbud having biometric sensing capacities and a method for performing a biometric measurement WO2022148543A1 (en)

Priority Applications (3)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
CN202180089544.8A CN116685267A (en) 2021-01-08 2021-01-08 Headphones with biometric sensing capability and method for performing biometric measurements
PCT/EP2021/050233 WO2022148543A1 (en) 2021-01-08 2021-01-08 Earbud having biometric sensing capacities and a method for performing a biometric measurement
EP21701224.4A EP4243693A1 (en) 2021-01-08 2021-01-08 Earbud having biometric sensing capacities and a method for performing a biometric measurement

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

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PCT/EP2021/050233 WO2022148543A1 (en) 2021-01-08 2021-01-08 Earbud having biometric sensing capacities and a method for performing a biometric measurement

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Citations (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
TWI586320B (en) * 2015-01-26 2017-06-11 chang-an Zhou Cardiovascular health monitoring device and method
WO2017135848A1 (en) * 2016-02-04 2017-08-10 Savchenko Vladimir Vyacheslavovich Heart activity monitor integrated with wired headphones
US20210169420A1 (en) * 2019-12-10 2021-06-10 Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. Wearable electronic device and method for detecting contact of living body to wearable electronic device
WO2021150148A1 (en) * 2020-01-25 2021-07-29 Vladimir Savchenko Heart monitoring system with wireless earbud

Patent Citations (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
TWI586320B (en) * 2015-01-26 2017-06-11 chang-an Zhou Cardiovascular health monitoring device and method
WO2017135848A1 (en) * 2016-02-04 2017-08-10 Savchenko Vladimir Vyacheslavovich Heart activity monitor integrated with wired headphones
US20210169420A1 (en) * 2019-12-10 2021-06-10 Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. Wearable electronic device and method for detecting contact of living body to wearable electronic device
WO2021150148A1 (en) * 2020-01-25 2021-07-29 Vladimir Savchenko Heart monitoring system with wireless earbud

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