PPG-based wearable system that monitors blood pressure and applies thermal treatment to the nape of the neck.

Abstract

This invention relates to a portable, wearable, and non-invasive system that monitors the user's real-time blood pressure data via a PPG sensor and automatically applies local thermal intervention (cooling) to the nape of the neck when a certain threshold value is exceeded;The system must have at least one PPG sensor (1) which measures pulse values ​​through a light source and photodiode, a cooling module (3) which reduces the surface temperature of the nape of the neck, a microcontroller (2) which continuously transmits data to the notification module by comparing the measured pulse value with a predefined threshold value and activates the cooling module (3) when the threshold value is exceeded and deactivates the cooling module (3) when the pulse values ​​reach the desired range, thus enabling the cooling module (3) to operate autonomously, a body (5) which has a U-shaped appearance to be worn on the nape of the neck and which houses the electronic equipment, and a power unit (4) which provides energy to the electronic equipment of the system.

Description

1 TARIFF PPG-based blood pressure monitoring with thermal treatment to the nape of the neck. WEARABLE SYSTEM THAT IMPLEMENTS Technological Field: This invention monitors the user's instantaneous blood pressure data via a PPG sensor and When a certain threshold is exceeded, automatic local thermal intervention is applied to the nape area. It relates to a portable, wearable, and non-invasive system that applies (cooling). 10 State of the Art: Blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is the pressure exerted on the blood vessels as the heart pumps blood through them. It is the pressure exerted on the walls. Usually expressed in millimeters of mercury (mmHg). 15 These values ​​are calculated as systolic (high blood pressure) and diastolic (low blood pressure). It consists of two components. Measuring blood pressure at regular intervals monitors the individual's circulation. monitoring the health status of the system, such as hypertension or hypotension. It is vital to diagnose conditions early and take necessary precautions in a timely manner. It is important. 20 Currently, there are various devices used for measuring blood pressure. The most Commonly used digital blood pressure monitors are those with cuffs wrapped around the upper arm, or those measured from the wrist or... These are portable, wearable devices that measure blood pressure from the fingertip. These devices measure an individual's blood pressure. It measures instantaneous blood pressure and displays the results on a digital screen or in mobile applications. 25 It transmits information. The aim is to monitor blood pressure levels and assist doctors in their diagnosis and treatment processes. to help patients monitor their own health in their own home environment. to provide. Commonly used blood pressure monitors on the market – for example, the 30-inch upper arm cuff. devices (Omron 10 Series), wrist-type wearable monitors (Omron HeartGuide, YHE BP Doctor Fit) and cuffless continuous monitoring systems (such as Aktiia) – blood pressure only. 2 It focuses on measurement and provides passive data tracking. These devices give the user... There is no physiological intervention mechanism for this. Systems used in known technology generally consist of Peltier modules that operate at a constant temperature. Phase change materials (PCMs), fan-assisted cooling surfaces, or evaporative cooling systems. Solutions such as cooling systems are limited. These structures are based on physiological data from the user. According to this, it does not operate dynamically or autonomously; it does not include an adaptive decision-making mechanism. In medical systems, these include invasive catheters, systemic temperature regulation units, or... The clinical devices used in a fixed location are included; these systems range from portability to... Remote and individual, not suitable for daily use. Some portable devices only offer manual hot / cold mode switching; these types The structures do not offer physiological feedback and require a user-specific threshold assessment. It does not incorporate an adaptive control architecture. 15 In addition, current wearable solutions feature anatomical targeting specific to the nape of the neck and vagal function. Activity-sensitive thermal application, ergonomic fastening options (hat, headband, (wearable textile integration, etc.) and visual or tactile feedback to the user. An integrated structure offering this is missing. 20 Application number JP2000328318A concerns vaporization of the nape and shoulder area. A passive cooling device based on ambient temperature has been defined. This system cools the user down to the ambient temperature. and aims to protect against heat increase caused by physical activity; however, physiological data-driven assessment, active cooling control, or blood pressure-focused intervention 25 It does not include a mechanism. In application number KR102454048B1, the user requested air to be injected into the armpit and neck area. A vest system that provides passive cooling through airflow has been described. This system is highly... Ventilation is achieved using layered mesh fabrics and battery-powered fan modules. 30 It forms chambers. However, this structure is not responsive to any biosensor data. 3 It does not involve a decision-making mechanism based on physiological feedback such as blood pressure control. It does not carry out a fundamental intervention. In application number KR102522457B1, the head and nape area were exposed to ambient temperatures. 5 designed to protect against [temperature], it has a fan-assisted air circulation system. A cooling helmet has been defined. However, this system works adaptively according to body data. decision algorithm, blood pressure-based assessment mechanism, or active thermal It does not include any intervention feature. In application JP2014023604A, manually applied ice pack or cold air 10 A method for reducing post-stroke damage has been described. This structure, It does not offer a wearable and autonomous system; it relies on human intervention. In applications US2024180743A1 & US2020321808A1, body temperature is measured wirelessly. Management and central control systems have been defined. However, these systems have a specific 15 it does not focus on body region and individual physiological parameters such as blood pressure. It does not include an intervention mechanism based on this. In application number JP2007016376A, a fan was requested to cool a user-owned header. A system that provides assisted air circulation has been described. This system targets the nape and head 20 It is designed to provide coolness to the area, and any biosensor, physiological It does not include data analysis or a blood pressure-focused feedback mechanism. In application number US2017332721A1, a hat-shaped structure was described, covering the face and nape. A cooling system featuring dual fan modules directed at specific areas has been defined. 25 This system is designed to improve user comfort; any biosensor data, blood pressure analysis, active feedback mechanism, or physiological data-based control. It does not include an algorithm. In the domestic application numbered TR2021018163, 30 that provides heat transfer from the head region. A temperature regulation system for medical operations has been described. This system, It is a non-portable structure designed for operational use. 4 Application CN213931250U describes the structural design of a thermal device that can be worn on the nape of the neck. The arrangement has been explained. However, the system does not include any biosensors or physiological feedback. There is no notification or blood pressure-based automated intervention mechanism. In application CN106691666A, vital signs (including blood pressure) were monitored and a water bath was administered. A multi-layered garment that provides whole-body cooling has been described. However, this structure is not a real-time decision algorithm based on blood pressure data, or It does not involve targeted local intervention. In application US11229548B2, the body's aim is to alter blood pressure. A system that applies heating or cooling to peripheral regions is described; however The system is designed to operate in a fixed position, it is not wearable, and it is placed on the back of the neck. It is not focused. In conclusion, a new one that can overcome the disadvantages mentioned above. Technology is needed. Description of the invention: The device described in this invention continuously monitors the user's blood pressure via a PPG sensor. monitoring and only applying thermal treatment to the nape area when the threshold value is exceeded. This prevents unnecessary intervention and improves the system's energy efficiency. This is ensured and user comfort is increased. The system uses dynamic thresholds based on the user's historical data instead of fixed threshold values. By determining this, it offers personalized adaptive control. Thus, each individual's physiological Optimized interventions are carried out to suit the variability. Furthermore, The device, with its lightweight and ergonomic design, fits comfortably on the back of the neck and is made of skin-friendly material. Its use increases comfort. Its non-invasive nature means it requires no medical intervention. 30 It provides convenience in everyday use. The nape of the neck triggers a physiological response due to its proximity to vagal nerve extensions. It is an ideal location for this. This strategic targeting allows for effective results with low energy consumption. It allows for this to be done. The device can operate without user intervention, and blood pressure returns to normal in 5 seconds. It automatically terminates the intervention when it returns. This is a closed-loop control. Thanks to its architecture, the need for constant monitoring is eliminated. Furthermore, the user... The system can also be activated manually if desired. This flexibility allows for different uses. It provides adaptability for various scenarios and gives the user control. The device can provide alerts via optional LED lights, vibration, or audible warnings. The user can be informed. Additionally, by connecting to the mobile application via Bluetooth. Historical data can be tracked and system settings can be personalized. 15 applications such as headbands, neckbands, hat integration, or embedding into textile products. Thanks to various fastening options, the device is suitable for different lifestyles and physical conditions. It can be adapted to needs. Cold stimulation applied to the nape of the neck affects the superficial passage of vagus nerve branches. It stimulates thermal receptors located in these regions. This stimulation activates the parasympathetic nervous system. this leads to an increase in vagal tone, and consequently, an increase in bar reflex sensitivity. and causes a decrease in blood pressure. This is a scientifically based approach. The device in question provides physiological benefits. The invention saves energy because it only operates when needed. Peltier 25 Heat dissipation is enhanced thanks to the integrated heatsink located at the back of the module, and Battery load is reduced. In addition, low energy mode and adaptive mode are implemented at the software level. Energy control mechanisms such as load management are in place. The system architecture allows for personalized thresholding or predictive intervention in the future. 30 algorithms that can be extended with machine learning models 6 This is designed so that the device will adapt itself to the user through future software updates. This makes it possible to optimize accordingly. Users can view past blood pressure data and thresholds via the mobile interface. You can change the values, control the device manually. This situation affects the device's 5. It ensures that it is user-friendly not only physically but also digitally. Explaining the Figures: The invention will be described by referring to the attached figures, so that the features of the invention are outlined in 10 It will be understood and appreciated more clearly, but the purpose of this invention is this obvious It is not about limiting it with regulations. On the contrary, the invention is defined by the accompanying claims. all alternatives, modifications, and options that could be included within the defined area The aim is to cover their equivalences. The details shown are only for the present invention. It was shown to illustrate the preferred arrangements and both methods are 15 shaping, as well as the most useful and conceptual features of the invention's rules and principles It should be understood that these drawings are presented to provide an easily understandable definition. In these drawings; Figure 1 shows a general perspective view of the product that is the subject of the invention. Illustrations that will help understand this invention are shown in the attached image. They are numbered and their names are given below. Explanation of References: 1. PPG sensor 2. Microcontroller 3. Cooling module 4. Power unit 5. Body 30 5.1. On / Off switch 5.2. Cooling button 7 Detailed Description of the Invention: The terminology used here is intended solely to describe specific applications. and does not limit the scope of the invention. The number 5 used here... The term "and / or" refers to any of the items listed as related. It includes one and all combinations thereof. Also, the singular "one" used here, "one" The terms "number" and "specified" are used in their plural forms unless the context explicitly indicates otherwise. It is designed to include singular forms such as those mentioned above. Furthermore, the terms used in this specification... The terms "includes" and / or "contains" refer to the specified features, steps, processes, 10 It indicates the presence of elements and / or components, but one or more other features, steps, processes, elements, components and / or groups thereof It will be understood that this does not exclude its existence or addition. Unless otherwise noted, all terms used herein (including technical and scientific terms) are copyrighted under Article 15. in the sense that a person with general knowledge in the field to which this invention belongs would generally understand it They have the same meaning. Furthermore, as defined in commonly used dictionaries... The terms will have a meaning consistent with the context of the relevant field and this explanation. it should be interpreted as idealized unless otherwise explicitly defined here. or it will be understood that it will not be interpreted in an overly formal sense. 20 The description of the invention will reveal a series of techniques and steps involved. These are: Each of them provides benefits individually, and at the same time, one or more of them can be used together. In some cases, all of the other techniques described may be used in combination. Accordingly, To ensure clarity, each step in the disclosure of the invention should be presented in 25 steps if possible. By doing this, unnecessary repetition of all combinations will be avoided. Together, the specification and claims, such combinations fully constitute an invention and claims. It should be read with the understanding that it falls within its scope. Here is a novel PPG-based blood pressure monitoring device with thermal treatment applied to the neck, 30 The wearable system is discussed. The following description explains exactly how the present invention works. Many specific details have been provided to facilitate understanding. However, these details... 8 the invention can be implemented even without the need for it, by experts in the field. It will be clearly understood. The device that is the subject of the invention is basically a PPG sensor (1), microcontroller (2), cooling module (3), power unit (4), housing (5), Bluetooth module, notification module, integrated 5 It consists of a cooler and a buzzer. The product in question has a U-shaped body (5) that can be worn around the neck. The parts of the body (5) that come into contact with the skin are made of medical silicone or TPU (thermoplastic urethane It is covered with polymer material. The PPG sensor (1) located in the body (5) measures the user's instantaneous 10 It measures the user's blood pressure. The PPG sensor (1) measures the user's pulse wave. It detects things optically. Its basic components are a light source and a photodiode. It is formed from the data measured by the PPG sensor (1) pulse transit time (PTT). Alternatively, an estimated blood pressure value is obtained by calculating the pulse response time (PAT). The PPG sensor (1) should be placed on the body (5) in contact with the nape of the neck at 15 is positioned. In another arrangement of the invention, the PPG sensor (1) is positioned with the nape of the neck. It can also take measurements from the earlobe. In another version of the invention, PPG ECG (Electrocardiography) sensor or multi-biosensor instead of sensor (1) Combinations (e.g., PPG + ECG) can be used. In this case, blood pressure estimation can be achieved. It relies on more physiological parameters. 20 sensors operating at different wavelengths. LED-photodiode pairs (green, infrared, etc.) can be chosen. This allows for different skin types. or vascular structures at greater depths can be detected more precisely. PPG sensor (1) The signals it receives from the user are analog, and these signals are sent to the microcontroller (2) It is sent and digitized by the ADC unit. The microcontroller (2) analyzes the data from the PPG sensor (1) and the data that was previously It compares to a defined threshold value. This threshold value is the average accepted in the literature. It refers to limit values ​​(e.g., 140 / 90 mmHg). However, optional The threshold value can also be assigned a different value by the user. Low power. power-efficient, ARM-based microcontroller (2) receives data from PPG sensor (1) 30 After comparing, if it decides that the threshold value has been exceeded, it will replace the cooling module (3) activates the cooling module (3) so that it makes direct contact with the nape of the neck of the device. 9 It is integrated into the rear side. The cooling module (3) provides cooling of approximately 5˚C – 15˚C. The cooling module (3) provides local cooling in the nape of the neck, protecting the vagus nerve. It triggers an autonomic response. This physiological effect leads to a decrease in blood pressure. It aims to. The cooling module (3) operates on the thermoelectric cooling principle. and when direct current is applied, the surface temperature decreases. Cooling module (3) 5 Peltier elements act as coolants, or alternatively, phase change materials. (PCM), microchannel liquid cooling systems, fan-assisted surface coolers It can be any of them. Cooling in line with the signal from the microcontroller (2). The operation of module (3) is autonomous. However, cooling can be done according to user request. The module (3) can also be operated manually via the cooling button (5.2). can be provided. The values ​​measured by the PPG sensor (1), the output data of the microcontroller (2), the housing (5) Information about the operating status of the hardware inside the microcontroller (2) The information is transferred to the notification module. The function of the notification module is to transmit data to the system via 15. It provides the user with information about the condition and the data it measures in an audible, visual, or tactile way. The notification module uses an LED light for visual alerts and a vibration for tactile alerts. The system can present the engine and audible warnings to the user via a buzzer. Additionally, notifications are provided. All information received by the module is processed by the low-power Bluetooth module (BLE module). It can also be transmitted via the mobile application. The mobile application provides the user with 20 Reporting is possible, threshold values ​​can be set, and the device can be turned on and off. Notification types can be selected, and historical data can be viewed. Additionally, The device can be optionally integrated with other health programs via the mobile application. is able to work. Blood pressure readings are continuously monitored during the cooling process. If the values ​​are normal... If it returns to the level (below the adaptive range), it will be automatically cooled by the cooling module (3). This stops the system from returning to passive mode and eliminating unnecessary energy. Consumption is prevented. The cooling module (3) prevents the spread of heat back. The back is covered with thermal insulation. 30 The system compares the user's blood pressure data only against a fixed threshold value. Instead, it works by creating a personalized threshold mechanism. This adaptive threshold, the moving average of the user's blood pressure readings over the last 5 minutes and standard It is calculated dynamically, taking into account the deviation. For example: Es\cik=μlast 5 min+1.5⋅σThreshold = \mu_{\text{last 5 min}} + 1.5 \cdot \sigmaEs\c ik=μson 5 min+1.5⋅σ Here, μ\muμ represents the mean blood pressure value, and σ\sigmaσ represents the variance. This structure, It adapts to the individual's physiological variations and reduces unnecessary interventions. Until sufficient user data is generated, the system will use 10 methods widely accepted in clinical literature. The system uses the initial threshold value of 140 / 90 mmHg as a reference. The device described in this invention converts electrical energy into rechargeable lithium-polymer (Li-Po) power sources. It is supplied from the unit (4). The power unit (4) is charged via the USB module. It is capable of handling and has an integrated circuit system protected against overheating and overcurrent. Low 15 It includes a voltage regulator for consumable components. The power unit (4) is available as an alternative. It obtains its energy from the grid, solar energy, and kinetic energy (electrical energy) in addition to the USB module. It can also be obtained from structures such as dynamos that convert it into energy. The device can be attached to the nape of the neck as desired via the strap or clip located on the body (5). It can be adjusted and fixed. In another arrangement of the invention, the device is elastic or It can be fitted directly around the neck with an adjustable nape band. The invention is a In another configuration, the device is a headband that goes over the ear and extends to the nape of the neck. It can be associated with its structure. Integrated cooling systems are responsible for dissipating the heat generated during the operation of the device. These coolers provide passive or active cooling and are made of aluminum or... It is made of copper alloy. Integrated heatsinks increase thermal efficiency and reduce battery consumption. It reduces.

Claims

11 REQUESTS 1- The invention monitors the user's instantaneous blood pressure data and determines when the values ​​fall below a certain threshold. a wearable device that applies local thermal treatment to the nape of the neck in case of overuse. It is a system, and its feature is; 5  at least one device that measures pulse values ​​using a light source and a photodiode PPG sensor (1), Cooling module that reduces the surface temperature of the neck (3),  by comparing the measured heart rate value to a predefined threshold value It continuously transmits data to the notification module and if the threshold value is exceeded, 10 Activating the cooling module (3) and the activation of the cooling module (3) When the pulse values ​​reach the desired range, the cooling module (3) is activated. by excluding the cooling module (3) enabling it to operate autonomously microcontroller (2),  U 15, which contains electronic equipment and is designed to be worn around the neck. a body that has the appearance (5),  has a power unit (4) that provides energy to the electronic equipment of the system It is the fact that. 2- The wearable system mentioned in Claim 1 is characterized by its thermoelectric cooling principle. 20 It is characterized by having a cooling module (3) that works with it. 3- The wearable system mentioned in Claim 1 is characterized by being flexible, lightweight, and skin-friendly. a body with a medical silicone or TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) material structure (5) It is characterized by having. 25 4- The wearable system mentioned in Claim 1 is characterized by being made of aluminum or copper alloy. It has a structure that acts as a heat dissipator to increase the thermal efficiency of the system. It is characterized by having an integrated cooling system. 5- The wearable system mentioned in Claim 1 is characterized by providing the user with visual or It is characterized by having a notification module that provides haptic feedback. 12 6- The wearable system mentioned in claim 5, its features include; LED light, vibration motor or It is characterized by having a notification module that includes a buzzer that provides an audible alert. It is done. 7- The wearable system mentioned in Claim 1 is characterized by the measurement of the PPG sensor (1). values, microcontroller (2) output data, hardware inside the housing (5) Low energy consumption devices that transmit information about operating status to a mobile application. It is characterized by having a Bluetooth module (BLE module). 8- The wearable system mentioned in Claim 1 is characterized by its ability to be switched on and off. the on / off switch (5.1) that enables it to turn off and the cooling module (3) manually It has a housing (5) which includes the cooling button (5.2) that controls it. It is the characterization of the situation. 9- In section 1, it is a wearable system; its feature is that it can be adjusted to be fixed to the nape of the neck. It is characterized by having a body with a strap or clip (5). 10- Claim 2 describes a wearable system whose feature is to prevent heat from radiating back. 20 It is the characterization of the situation. 30

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