Systems, devices and methods for continuous heart rate monitoring and interpretation

Abstract

Embodiments provide physiological measurement systems, devices and methods for continuous health and fitness monitoring. A lightweight wearable system is provided to collect various physiological data continuously from a wearer without the need for a chest strap. The system also enables monitoring of one or more physiological parameters in addition to heart rate including, but not limited to, body temperature, heart rate variability, motion, sleep, stress, fitness level, recovery level, effect of a workout routine on health, caloric expenditure. Embodiments also include computer-executable instructions that, when executed, enable automatic interpretation of one or more physiological parameters to assess the cardiovascular intensity experienced by a user (embodied in an intensity score or indicator) and the user's recovery after physical exertion (embodied in a recovery score). These indicators or scores may be displayed to assist a user in managing the user's health and exercise regimen.

Description

RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]The present application claims priority to and is a non-provisional application of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 696,525, filed Sep. 4, 2012, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 736,310, filed Dec. 12, 2012. The entire contents of each of the aforementioned applications are incorporated herein in their entirety by reference.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]There is an increasing demand for health and fitness monitors and methods for providing health and fitness monitoring. Monitoring heart rate, for example, is important for various reasons. Monitoring heart rate is critical for athletes in understanding their fitness levels and workouts over time. Conventional techniques for monitoring heart rate have numerous drawbacks. Certain conventional heart rate monitors, for example, require the use of a chest strap or other bulky equipment that causes discomfort and prevents continuous wearing and use.[0003]This presents a challenge to adop...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

This patent describes a wearable system for measuring physiological data, specifically heart rate. The system includes a strap that is connected to the user's appendage and has light emitters and detectors that shine light onto the skin and collect the reflected light. The system analyzes the data to determine the user's heart rate. The system also has a battery that powers the light emitters and detectors. The patent also describes a modular housing that can be attached to the strap and has its own battery to recharge the strap's battery. The system automatically adjusts its operational characteristics to minimize power consumption based on signals from sensors. This allows for continuous monitoring of the heart rate. The patent also describes a computer-static method for detecting heart rate based on processed sensor signals. The patent also provides computer-readable media that contain the instructions for the method.

Problems solved by technology

This presents a challenge to adoption and use of such monitors because the monitors are too obtrusive and / or are directed to assessing general well-being rather than continuous, around-the-clock monitoring of fitness.

Certain conventional heart rate monitors do not enable continuous sensing of heart rate, thereby preventing continuous fitness monitoring and reliable analysis of physiological data.

Additionally, a challenge to adoption of fitness monitors by athletes is the lack of a vibrant and interactive online community for displaying and sharing physiological data among users.

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