Systems, apparatuses, and methods for sensor communication

Abstract

Systems, methods, and devices are provided for improved sensor communication in an analyte monitoring system. In some embodiments, a first remote device can be configured to establish a first wireless communication link with a sensor control device. The first remote device can then send sensor context information to a second remote device and disable the first wireless communication link. Subsequently, the second remote device can establish a second wireless communication link with the sensor control device using the sensor context information.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The topics described in this article generally relate to systems, devices, and methods for sensor communication. Background Technology

[0002] There is a huge and growing market for monitoring the health and condition of humans and other living animals. Information describing human physical or physiological conditions can be used in countless ways to help and improve quality of life, diagnose and treat unwanted human conditions.

[0003] Common devices used to collect this type of information are physiological sensors, such as biochemical analyte sensors, or devices capable of sensing chemical analytes from biological entities. Biochemical sensors come in various forms and can be used to sense analytes in liquids, tissues, or gases that are partly composed of or produced by biological entities (such as humans). These analyte sensors can be used on the body itself or inside the body, or on biological substances that have been removed from the body.

[0004] Analyte sensor data is particularly useful for a user's health and overall well-being. For example, analyte sensor data can provide useful information regarding a user's exercise habits, nutrition, rehabilitation and physical therapy, treatment of adverse conditions, and other physical activities. However, data collected by sensor control devices with analyte sensors can include sensitive information subject to data integrity, confidentiality, and regulatory requirements, which may create obstacles in the transmission of data collected by analyte sensors. Furthermore, applications residing on various consumer electronics devices (e.g., smartphones, smartwatches, tablets, exercise bikes, and / or treadmills with integrated computing devices) may be able to communicate with sensor control devices. These applications are often developed by third parties different from the sensor control device manufacturer, where the third-party developer is not subject to the same data integrity, confidentiality, and / or regulatory requirements demanded by the sensor control device manufacturer.

[0005] For these and other reasons, there is a need to improve sensor communication. Summary of the Invention

[0006] This document describes example embodiments of systems, apparatuses, and methods for sensor communication. These embodiments provide communication of analyte sensor data between a sensor control device with an analyte sensor and various electronic computing devices, such as smartphones, exercise bikes, and / or treadmills or smartwatches with integrated computing devices. According to some embodiments, for example, a sensor communication module residing on a reader device or smartphone can be configured to manage pairing, connection, and secure data communication between the sensor control device with the analyte sensor and other electronic computing devices. Numerous examples of algorithms and methods for performing combinations and / or variations of these mechanisms are provided, along with example embodiments of systems and apparatuses for performing the same operations.

[0007] Other systems, apparatuses, methods, features, and advantages of the subject matter described herein will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon examination of the following drawings and detailed description. It is intended that all such additional systems, methods, features, and advantages are included in this specification, within the scope of the subject matter described herein, and protected by the appended claims. The features of the exemplary embodiments should never be construed as limiting the appended claims unless they are expressly recited in the claims. Attached Figure Description

[0008] The details of the subject matter described herein, including its structure and operation, become apparent through a study of the accompanying drawings, in which the same reference numerals refer to the same parts. The components in the drawings are not scaled proportionally; the emphasis is on highlighting rather than illustrating the principles of the subject matter. Furthermore, all illustrations are intended to convey concepts, where relative dimensions, shapes, and other detailed properties may be depicted schematically rather than literally or precisely.

[0009] Figure 1 This is an illustrative view depicting an exemplary embodiment of an in vivo analyte monitoring system.

[0010] Figure 2 This is a block diagram of an exemplary embodiment of the reader device.

[0011] Figure 3 This is a block diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a sensor control device.

[0012] Figure 4 This is a flowchart of an example embodiment of a method for wireless communication in an analyte monitoring system.

[0013] Figure 5 This is a flowchart of another example embodiment of a method for wireless communication in an analyte monitoring system.

[0014] Figure 6This is a flowchart of another example embodiment of a method for wireless communication in an analyte monitoring system. Detailed Implementation

[0015] Before describing this subject matter in detail, it should be understood that this disclosure is not limited to the specific embodiments described, and therefore changes are naturally possible. It should also be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting, as the scope of the invention will be limited to the appended claims.

[0016] The disclosure discussed herein refers only to that disclosed prior to the filing date of this application. Nothing in this disclosure should be construed as granting any prior right to such publication based on the advantages of previous disclosures. Furthermore, the publication date provided may differ from the actual publication date and may require separate verification.

[0017] Generally, embodiments of the present invention are used in conjunction with systems, apparatus, and methods for detecting at least one analyte (e.g., glucose) in bodily fluids (e.g., subcutaneous interstitial fluid (“ISF”) or within the blood, dermal fluid, or other ranges). Therefore, many embodiments include structurally configured in vivo analyte sensors such that at least a portion of the sensor is located or can be located within the user's body to obtain information about at least one analyte in the body. However, the embodiments disclosed herein can be used in in vivo analyte monitoring systems that incorporate in vitro capabilities, as well as purely in vitro or in vitro analyte monitoring systems, including those that are entirely non-invasive.

[0018] Furthermore, systems and apparatuses capable of performing each of the methods disclosed herein, and each embodiment thereof, are covered within the scope of this disclosure. For example, embodiments of sensor control devices are disclosed, and these devices may include one or more sensors, analyte monitoring circuitry (e.g., analog circuitry), non-transient memory (e.g., for storing instructions), power supply, communication circuitry, transmitter, receiver, processing circuitry, and / or controller (e.g., for executing instructions). These sensor control devices can perform or facilitate the execution of steps of any and all methods. These sensor control device embodiments can be used and are capable of implementing those steps performed by the sensor control devices according to any and all methods described herein.

[0019] Similarly, embodiments of reader devices are disclosed having one or more transmitters, receivers, non-transient memory (e.g., for storing instructions), power supplies, processing circuitry, and / or controllers (e.g., for executing instructions), which can perform or facilitate the execution of any and all method steps. These embodiments of reader devices can be used to implement those steps of any and all methods described herein, performed by the reader device.

[0020] Embodiments of trusted computer systems are also disclosed. These trusted computer systems may include one or more processing circuits, controllers, transmitters, receivers, non-transient memory, databases, servers, and / or networks, and may be distributed across multiple geographical locations. These embodiments of trusted computer systems can be used to implement those steps from any and all methods described herein, performed by trusted computer systems.

[0021] However, before describing the embodiments in detail, it is desirable to first describe examples of devices that may exist, for example, within the scope of in vivo analyte monitoring systems, and examples of their operation, all of which can be used in conjunction with the embodiments described herein.

[0022] Example Implementation of Analyte Monitoring System

[0023] Various types of analyte monitoring systems exist. For example, a “continuous analyte monitoring” system (or “continuous glucose monitoring” system) is an in vivo system that can repeatedly or continuously transmit data from a sensor control device to a reader device without prompting, for example, autonomously sending data according to a schedule. A “rapid analyte monitoring” system (or “rapid glucose monitoring” system or simply a “rapid” system) is another example of an in vivo system that can transmit data from a sensor control device in response to data scanned or requested by a reader device, for example via near field communication (NFC) or radio frequency identification (RFID) protocols. In vivo analyte monitoring systems can also operate without the need for finger rod calibration.

[0024] An in vivo monitoring system may include a sensor that, when positioned within the body, comes into contact with the user's bodily fluids and senses the levels of one or more analytes contained therein. The sensor may be part of a sensor control unit located on the user's body, which includes electronics and a power source for enabling and controlling analyte sensing. The sensor control unit and variations thereof may also be referred to as a "sensor control unit," "body electronics," "body" device or unit, or "sensor data communication" device or unit, to name just a few. As used herein, these terms are not limited to devices having analyte sensors and include devices having other types of sensors, whether bioassay or non-bioassay. The term "body" refers to any device located directly on or near the body, such as wearable devices (e.g., glasses, watches, wristbands or bracelets, collars or necklaces, etc.).

[0025] In vivo monitoring systems may also include one or more reader devices for receiving sensed analyte data from sensor control devices. These reader devices can process and / or display the sensed analyte data or sensor data to the user in any form. These devices and variations thereof may be referred to as “handheld reader devices,” “reader devices” (or simply “readers”), “handheld electronic devices” (or handheld devices), “portable data processing” devices or units, “data receivers,” “receiver” devices or units (or simply receivers), “relay” devices or units, or “remote” devices or units, etc. Other devices, such as personal computers, have also been used in conjunction with in vivo and in vitro monitoring systems.

[0026] In vivo analyte monitoring systems can be distinguished from "in vitro" systems, which contact biological samples outside the body (or more precisely, "in vitro") and typically include an instrument with a port for receiving an analyte test strip carrying the user's bodily fluids, which can be analyzed to determine the user's analyte levels. As previously described, the embodiments described herein can be used with in vivo systems, in vitro systems, and combinations thereof.

[0027] The embodiments described herein can be used to monitor and / or process information about any number of one or more different analytes. Monitorable analytes include, but are not limited to, acetylcholine, amylase, bilirubin, cholesterol, human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), creatine kinase (e.g., CK-MB), creatine, creatinine, DNA, fructosamine, glucose, glucose derivatives, glutamine, growth hormone, hormones, ketones, ketone bodies, lactate, peroxides, prostate-specific antigen, prothrombin, RNA, thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), and troponin. Drug concentrations can also be monitored, such as antibiotics (e.g., gentamicin, vancomycin, etc.), digoxin, drugs of abuse, theophylline, and warfarin. In embodiments monitoring more than one analyte, the analytes can be monitored at the same or different times.

[0028] Figure 1This is an illustrative view depicting an exemplary embodiment of an in vivo analyte monitoring system 100, which includes a sensor control device 102 and a reader device 120 that communicate with each other via a local communication path (or link) 140, which can be wired or wireless and can be one-way or two-way. In embodiments where path 140 is wireless, near field communication (NFC) protocols, RFID protocols, Bluetooth or Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) protocols, Wi-Fi protocols, proprietary protocols, etc., including those communication protocols existing as of the date of this application or variants thereof, can be used. Similarly, sensor control device 102 can also communicate with an auxiliary electronic computing device 300 (e.g., an exercise bike or treadmill with an integrated computing device, a smartwatch, a tablet computer, etc.) via a local communication path (or link) 144, which can also be wired or wireless and one-way or two-way. In embodiments where path 144 is wireless, NFC, RFID, Bluetooth or BLE, Wi-Fi protocols, proprietary protocols, etc., may be used, including those communication protocols that exist as of the date of this application or variants thereof that have been subsequently developed.

[0029] The assistive electronic computing device 300 can also communicate with the reader device 120 via a local communication path (or link) 145, which can be wired or wireless, and can be one-way or two-way. In embodiments where path 145 is wireless, NFC, RFID, Bluetooth or BLE, Wi-Fi protocols, proprietary protocols, etc., can be used, including those communication protocols existing as of the date of this application or variants thereof that have been developed thereafter. Those skilled in the art will also understand that the assistive computing device 300 is not limited to a single device and can include multiple computing devices having the above-described features (e.g., exercise bikes, smartwatches, etc. with integrated computing systems).

[0030] The reader device 120 is also capable of wired, wireless, or combined communication with computer system 170 (e.g., a local or remote computer system) via communication path (or link) 141, and wired, wireless, or combined communication with network 190 (e.g., the Internet or the cloud) via communication path (or link) 142. Communication with network 190 may involve communication with a trusted computer system 180 within network 190, or communication from network 190 to computer system 170 via communication link (or path) 143. Communication paths 141, 142, 143, 144, and 145 may be wireless, wired, or both, may be unidirectional or bidirectional, and may be part of a telecommunications network, such as a Wi-Fi network, local area network (LAN), wide area network (WAN), the Internet, or other data network. In some cases, communication paths 141 and 142 may be the same path. All communications on paths 140, 141, 142, 143, 144, and 145 can be encrypted, and the sensor control device 102, reader device 120, auxiliary electronic computing device 300, computer system 170, and trusted computer system 180 can all be configured to encrypt and decrypt those transmitted and received communications.

[0031] Variations of devices 102 and 120, as well as other components suitable for use with the embodiments of the systems, devices, and methods described herein, are described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2011 / 0213225 ('225 Publication). The entire contents of the patent application are incorporated herein by reference for all purposes.

[0032] The sensor control device 102 may include a housing 103 containing an in vivo analyte monitoring circuit and a power supply. In this embodiment, the in vivo analyte monitoring circuit is electrically coupled to an analyte sensor 104, which extends through an adhesive patch 105 and protrudes from the housing 103. The adhesive patch 105 includes an adhesive layer (not shown) for attachment to the skin surface of a user's body. Other forms of body connectors may be used instead of adhesives.

[0033] Sensor 104 is adapted to be at least partially inserted into a user's body, in which case sensor 104 can make fluid contact with the user's bodily fluids (e.g., subcutaneous fluid, dermal fluid, or blood) and, together with in vivo analyte monitoring circuitry, be used to measure the user's analyte-related data. Sensor 104 and any accompanying sensor control electronics can be applied to the body in any desired manner. For example, an insertion device (not shown) can be used to position all or part of the analyte sensor 104 through the outer surface of the user's skin and insert it into contact with the user's bodily fluids. In doing so, the insertion device can also place sensor control device 102 and adhesive patch 105 on the skin. In other embodiments, the insertion device can first position sensor 104, and then the accompanying sensor control electronics can be coupled to sensor 104 manually or by means of a mechanical means. Examples of insertion devices are described in U.S. Patent Publications 2008 / 0009692, 2011 / 0319729, 2015 / 0018639, 2015 / 0025345 and 2015 / 0173661, all of which are incorporated herein by reference for all purposes.

[0034] After collecting raw data from the user's body, sensor control device 102 can apply analog signal conditioning to the data and convert it into a digital form of the conditioned raw data. In some embodiments, sensor control device 102 can then process the digital raw data using algorithms into a form representing a biometric measured by the user (e.g., analyte level) and / or one or more analyte measures based thereon. Sensor control device 102 can then encode the calculated analyte measures and wirelessly transmit them to reader device 120 and / or auxiliary electronic computing device 300, which in turn can format or graphically process the received data for digital display to the user. In other embodiments, in addition to or instead of wirelessly transmitting sensor data to another device (e.g., reader device 120 and / or auxiliary electronic computing device 300), sensor control device 102 can graphically process the final form of the data to prepare it for display and display the data on the display of sensor control device 102. In some embodiments, the final form of bioassay data (before graphical processing) is used by the system without requiring processing for display to the user (e.g., incorporated into a diabetes monitoring regime).

[0035] In other embodiments, the processed raw digital data may be encoded for transmission to another device (e.g., reader device 120 or auxiliary electronic computing device 300), which then processes the raw digital data using an algorithm into a form representing a biometric measured by the user (e.g., a form easily suitable for display to the user) and / or into one or more analyte measurements based on that form. Reader device 120 and / or auxiliary electronic computing device 300 may include processing circuitry to perform any of the method steps described herein to calculate analyte measurements using an algorithm. The algorithmically processed data may then be formatted or graphically processed for digital display to the user.

[0036] In other embodiments, the sensor control device 102, the reader device 120, and / or the auxiliary electronic computing device 300 can transmit the digital raw data to another computer system for algorithm processing and display.

[0037] The reader device 120 may include a display 122 for outputting information to a user and / or receiving user input, and optional input components 121 (or more), such as buttons, actuators, touch-sensitive switches, capacitive switches, pressure-sensitive switches, jog wheels, etc., for inputting data, commands, or otherwise controlling the operation of the reader device 120. In some embodiments, the display 122 and the input components 121 may be integrated into a single component, for example, where the display can detect the presence and location of physical touches (e.g., touchscreen user interfaces) on the display. In some embodiments, the input component 121 of the reader device 120 may include a microphone, and the reader device 120 may include software configured to analyze audio input received from the microphone, such that the functionality and operation of the reader device 120 can be controlled by voice commands. In some embodiments, the output component of the reader device 120 includes a speaker (not shown) for outputting information as an audio signal. A similar voice response component, such as a speaker, microphone, and software routines for generating, processing, and storing voice-driven signals, may be included in the sensor control device 102.

[0038] The reader device 120 may also include one or more data communication ports 123 for wired data communication with external devices (such as computer system 170 or sensor control device 102). Example data communication ports include a USB port, a mini-USB port, a USB Type-C port, a USB micro-A and / or micro-B port, an RS-232 port, an Ethernet port, a FireWire port, or other similar data communication ports configured to connect to a compatible data cable. The reader device 120 may also include an integrated or connectable in vitro glucose meter, including an in vitro test strip port (not shown) for receiving an in vitro glucose test strip for performing in vitro blood glucose measurements.

[0039] The reader device 120 can display measured biological data wirelessly received from the sensor control device 102, and can also be configured to output alarms, alert notifications, glucose levels, etc., which can be visual, auditory, tactile, or any combination thereof. Further details and other display embodiments can be found, for example, in U.S. Patent Publication No. 2011 / 0193704, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety for all purposes.

[0040] The reader device 120 can be used as a data conduit to transfer measurement data and / or analyte measurements from the sensor control device 102 to a computer system 170 or a trusted computer system 180. In some embodiments, data received from the sensor control device 102 may be stored (permanently or temporarily) in one or more memories of the reader device 120 before being uploaded to systems 170, 180, or network 190.

[0041] Computer system 170 may be a personal computer, server terminal, laptop computer, tablet computer, or other suitable data processing device. Computer system 170 may include (or include) software for data management and analysis, and for communicating with components in analyte monitoring system 100. Users or medical professionals may use computer system 170 to display and / or analyze bioassay data measured by sensor control device 102. In some embodiments, sensor control device 102 may transmit bioassay data directly to computer system 170 without the use of an intermediate device such as reader device 120, or indirectly using an Internet connection (optionally without first transmitting to reader device 120). Operation and use of computer system 170 are further described in the '225 publication incorporated herein by reference. Analyte monitoring system 100 may also be configured to operate in conjunction with a data processing module (not shown), as also described in the incorporated '225 disclosure.

[0042] The trusted computer system 180 may be owned by the manufacturer or distributor of the sensor control device 102, may be physical or virtual, securely connected, and may be used to authenticate the sensor control device 102, securely store user biometric data, and / or serve as a server for a data analysis program (e.g., accessible via a web browser) that analyzes the user's measurement data.

[0043] Example embodiments of reader devices

[0044] The reader device 120 can be a mobile communication device, such as a dedicated reader device (configured to communicate with the sensor control device 102 and optional computer system 170, but without mobile phone communication capabilities) or a mobile phone, including but not limited to Wi-Fi or Internet-enabled smartphones, tablets, or personal digital assistants (PDAs). Examples of smartphones may include those based on… Operating System Android TM operating system, operating system, WebOS TM , Operating system or Mobile phones with operating systems, these smartphones have data network connectivity capabilities, and can communicate data via the Internet and / or a local area network (LAN).

[0045] The reader device 120 can also be configured as a mobile smart wearable electronic component, such as an optical component worn above or near the user's eyes (e.g., smart glasses, such as Google Glass, which is a mobile communication device). This optical component may have a transparent display that shows the user information about the user's analytics level (as described herein) while allowing the user to view through the display with minimal obstruction to the user's overall vision. This optical component can enable wireless communication similar to that of a smartphone. Other examples of wearable electronic devices include devices worn around or near the user's wrist (e.g., a watch), neck (e.g., a necklace), head (e.g., a headband, a hat), chest, etc.

[0046] Figure 2This is a block diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a reader device 120 configured as a smartphone. Here, the reader device 120 includes an input component 121, a display 122, and processing circuitry 206. Processing circuitry 206 may include one or more processors, microprocessors, controllers, and / or microcontrollers, each of which may be a discrete chip or distributed among multiple different chips (and a portion thereof). Processing circuitry 206 includes a communication processor 202 with motherboard memory 203 and an application processor 204 with motherboard memory 205. Reader device 120 also includes RF communication circuitry 208 coupled to RF antenna 209, memory 210, a multifunction circuitry 212 with one or more associated antennas 214, a power supply 216, power management circuitry 218, and a clock 219. Figure 2 It is a simplified representation of the general hardware and functions residing within a smartphone, which will be readily recognized by those skilled in the art as may also include other hardware and functions (e.g., codecs, drivers, glue logic).

[0047] The communication processor 202 can interconnect with the RF communication circuitry 208 and can perform analog-to-digital conversion, encoding and decoding, digital signal processing, and other functions that help convert voice, video, and data signals into formats suitable for delivery to the RF communication circuitry 208 (e.g., in-phase and quadrature), which can then be wirelessly transmitted. The communication processor 202 can also interconnect with the RF communication circuitry 208 to perform the reverse functions required to receive wireless transmissions and convert them into digital data, voice, and video. The RF communication circuitry 208 may include transmitters and receivers (e.g., integrated as a transceiver) and associated encoder logic.

[0048] Application processor 204 can be adapted to execute an operating system and any software applications residing on reader device 120, process video and graphics, and perform other functions unrelated to the processing of communications transmitted and received via RF antenna 209. A smartphone operating system will run alongside multiple applications on reader device 120. Any number of applications (also referred to as “user interface applications”) can run on reader device 120 at any time and may include one or more applications related to the diabetes monitoring mechanism, as well as other commonly used applications unrelated to this mechanism (e.g., email, calendar, weather, sports, games, etc.). Data indicating the levels of sensed analytes and in vitro blood analytes measured by the reader device can be securely transmitted to the user interface applications residing in memory 210 of reader device 120. Such communication can be securely performed, for example, by using mobile application containerization or packaging techniques.

[0049] Memory 210 may be shared by one or more different functional units within reader device 120, or may be distributed among two or more functional units (e.g., as separate memories within different chips). Memory 210 may also be its own independent chip. Memories 203, 205, and 210 are non-transient and may be volatile memories (e.g., RAM) and / or non-volatile memories (e.g., ROM, flash memory, F-RAM, etc.).

[0050] The multi-functional circuit 212 can be implemented as one or more chips and / or components (e.g., transmitters, receivers, transceivers, and / or other communication circuits) that perform other functions such as local wireless communication with the sensor control device 102 and determining the geographic location of the reader device 120 (e.g., Global Positioning System (GPS) hardware) according to appropriate protocols (e.g., Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Bluetooth Low Energy, Near Field Communication (NFC), Radio Frequency Identification (RFID), proprietary protocols, etc.). One or more additional antennas 214 may be associated with the functional circuit 212 as needed to operate using various protocols and circuits.

[0051] The power supply 216 may include one or more batteries, which may be rechargeable or disposable. The power management circuit 218 may regulate battery charging and power monitoring, boost power, and perform DC conversion, etc.

[0052] The reader device 120 may also include a drug (e.g., insulin) or an integrated drug delivery device, such that they share a common housing. Examples of such drug delivery devices may include a drug pump with a cannula remaining in the body to allow infusion over multiple hours or days (e.g., a wearable pump for delivering basal and high-dose insulin). When combined with a drug pump, the reader device 120 may include a reservoir for storing the drug, a pump connectable to a delivery tubing, and an infusion cannula. The pump can force the drug out of the reservoir, through a catheter, and into the diabetic patient via the inserted cannula. Other examples of drug delivery devices that may include (or integrate) the reader device 120 include portable injection devices (e.g., insulin pens) that puncture the skin only once for each delivery and are subsequently removed. When combined with a portable injection device, the reader device 120 may include an injection needle, a cartridge for carrying the drug, an interface for controlling the amount of drug to be delivered, and an actuator to cause the injection. The device can be reused until the medication is exhausted, at which point the device can be discarded or replaced with a new cartridge, allowing for reuse. The needle can be replaced after each injection.

[0053] The combined device can function as part of a closed-loop system (e.g., an artificial pancreas system that operates without user intervention) or a semi-closed-loop system (e.g., an insulin loop system that operates with minimal user intervention, such as dose confirmation). For example, sensor control device 102 can repeatedly and automatically monitor the analyte levels of a diabetic patient. Sensor control device 102 can then transmit the monitored analyte levels to reader device 120 and can automatically determine the appropriate drug dose for controlling the analyte levels in the diabetic patient, and subsequently deliver it to the patient's body. Software instructions for controlling the pump and the amount of insulin delivered can be stored in the memory of reader device 120 and executed by the processing circuitry of the reader device. These instructions can also calculate the drug delivery volume and duration (e.g., bolus and / or basal infusion curves) based on analyte level measurements obtained directly or indirectly from sensor control device 102. In some embodiments, sensor control device 102 can determine the drug dose and transmit it to reader device 120.

[0054] Example embodiments of sensor control devices

[0055] Figure 3 This is a block diagram depicting an exemplary embodiment of a sensor control device 102, which has an analyte sensor 104 and sensor electronics 250 (including analyte monitoring circuitry), the sensor electronics 250 potentially having most of the processing power for presenting final result data suitable for display to a user. Figure 3 The image depicts a single semiconductor chip 251, which may be a custom application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC). Within the ASIC 251 are shown certain advanced functional units, including an analog front-end (AFE) 252, power management (or control) circuitry 254, a processor 256, and communication circuitry 258 (which may be implemented as a transmitter, receiver, transceiver, passive circuitry, or others depending on the communication protocol). In this embodiment, both the AFE 252 and the processor 256 serve as analyte monitoring circuitry; however, in other embodiments, either circuitry may perform analyte monitoring functions. The processor 256 may include one or more processors, microprocessors, controllers, and / or microcontrollers, each of which may be a discrete chip or distributed among multiple different chips (and a portion thereof).

[0056] Memory 253 is also included in ASIC 251 and can be shared by various functional units present in ASIC 251, or distributed among two or more functional units therein. Memory 253 can also be a separate chip. Memory 253 is non-transient and can be volatile and / or non-volatile memory. In this embodiment, ASIC 251 is coupled to power source 260, which can be a coin cell battery, etc. AFE 252 is interconnected with in vivo analyte sensor 104 and receives measurement data therefrom, and outputs the data in digital form to processor 256, which in some embodiments can be processed in any of the ways described herein. This data can then be provided to communication circuitry 258 for transmission via antenna 261 to reader device 120 and / or auxiliary electronic computing device 300 (not shown), for example, requiring only minimal further processing to display the data via a resident software application. Antenna 261 can be configured according to the needs of the application and communication protocol. Antenna 261 can be, for example, a printed circuit board (PCB) tracking antenna, a ceramic antenna, or a discrete metal antenna. Antenna 261 can be configured as a monopole antenna, a dipole antenna, an F-type antenna, a loop antenna, etc.

[0057] Information can be transmitted from sensor control device 102 to a second device (e.g., reader device 120 or auxiliary electronic computing device 300) at the initiative of sensor control device 102, reader device 120, or auxiliary electronic computing device 300. For example, information can be transmitted automatically and / or repeatedly (e.g., continuously) by sensor control device 102 when analyte information is available, or according to a schedule (e.g., approximately every 1 minute, approximately every 5 minutes, approximately every 10 minutes, etc.). In this case, the information can be stored or recorded in the memory of sensor control device 102 for future communication. Information can be sent from sensor control device 102 in response to a request received by the second device. This request can be an automatic request (e.g., a request sent by the second device according to a schedule) or a request actively generated by the user (e.g., an ad-hoc or manual request). In some embodiments, a manual data request is referred to as a “scan” by sensor control device 102 or “on-demand” data transmission from device 102. In some embodiments, the second device may send polling signals or data packets to the sensor control device 102, and the device 102 may treat each polling (or polling occurring at specific time intervals) as a data request, and if data is available, may send such data to the second device. In many embodiments, communication between the sensor control device 102 and the second device is secure (e.g., encrypted and / or between authenticated devices), but in some embodiments, data may be transmitted from the sensor control device 102 in an insecure manner, for example, as a broadcast to all listening devices within range.

[0058] Information of different types and / or forms and / or total amounts may be sent as part of each communication, including but not limited to one or more current sensor measurements (e.g., the latest analyte level information corresponding to the start time of the read), the rate of change of a measured index within a predetermined time period, the rate of change of a metric (acceleration in the rate of change), or historical measurement information corresponding to the measurement information acquired prior to a given read and stored in the memory of the sensor control device 102.

[0059] Some or all of the real-time, historical, rate of change, and rate of information change (e.g., acceleration or deceleration) can be transmitted to the reader device 120 or the auxiliary electronic computing device 300 in a given communication or transmission. In some embodiments, the type and / or form and / or quantity of information sent to the reader device 120 and / or the auxiliary electronic computing device 300 can be pre-programmed and / or immutable (e.g., preset at manufacturing time), or not pre-programmed and / or immutable, such that it can be selected and / or changed once or multiple times in a field (e.g., by activating a system switch, etc.). Thus, in some embodiments, the reader device 120 and / or the auxiliary electronic computing device 300 can output analyte values ​​derived from a current (real-time) sensor (e.g., in digital format), the current rate of analyte change (e.g., in the form of an analyte rate indicator, such as an arrow pointing in the direction indicating the current rate), and historical analyte trend data based on sensor readings acquired and stored therein by the sensor control device 102 (e.g., in the form of a graphical trace). Furthermore, temperature readings or measurements on the skin or sensor can be collected via an optional temperature sensor 257. These readings or measurements can be transmitted from sensor control device 102 (individually or as aggregated measurements over time) to another device (e.g., reader 120 and / or auxiliary electronic computing device 300). However, temperature readings or measurements may be used in conjunction with software routines executed by reader device 120 and / or auxiliary electronic computing device 300 to correct or compensate for analyte measurements output to the user, rather than simply displaying the actual temperature measurement to the user.

[0060] Examples of systems, apparatuses, and methods for sensor communication

[0061] This document describes various example embodiments of a sensor communication module (SCM), which is a standalone software component that can be used by or within a third-party application implemented on a reader device 120 on a mobile computing device platform (e.g., Android and iOS) to communicate with a manufacturer's sensor control device 102. According to one aspect of the embodiments, the reader device 120 can activate the sensor control device 102 and obtain a Bluetooth or BLE key from the sensor control device 102. In some embodiments, for example, such as... Figure 1 As shown, Bluetooth and / or BLE information and SCM information from reader device 120 can be transmitted to assistive electronic computing device 300 (e.g., a sports bicycle with an integrated computing device) via communication link 145. Subsequently, data between reader device 120 and assistive electronic computing device 300 can be synchronized, shared, and optionally uploaded to a trusted computer system 180 in cloud 190.

[0062] Similarly, the assistive electronic computing device 300 (e.g., an exercise bike with an integrated computing device running SCM) can be configured to activate the sensor control device 102 (instead of the reader device 120) and pass sensor context information to the software application on the reader device 120. Subsequently, data between the assistive electronic computing device 300 and the reader device 120 can be synchronized, shared, and optionally uploaded to a trusted computer system 180 in the cloud 190.

[0063] One objective of a Sensor Controller (SCM) is to perform operations related to sensor communication, particularly specialized ones. For example, an SCM and other software provided by the sensor control device manufacturer can be configured to receive data from sensor control device 102 and execute complex algorithms (such as data decryption and glucose calculation) on reader device 120. In this regard, the SCM provides a significant degree of protection for the accuracy, confidentiality, and integrity of the data regarding the complex glucose algorithm executed on reader device 120, while allowing authorized third parties to develop mobile applications without imposing significant responsibility on them to independently provide the same level of performance and result accuracy.

[0064] According to one aspect of the embodiments, various third-party companies can develop their own mobile applications that operate using the manufacturer's sensor control device 102; however, these third-party companies can have multiple use cases that differ from those currently supported by the manufacturer. To fully support these third-party companies, the SCM and the services it provides can be enhanced to support more complex use cases. The following sections outline the advanced SCM functionalities that the manufacturer can implement to support third parties.

[0065] In some embodiments, the SCM utilizes a modular architecture (e.g., one module performs glucose calculations, and another manages an internal database) that supports numerous internal function calls. This encourages third parties to use fewer high-level calls, as described below.

[0066] Figures 4 to 6 This is a flowchart illustrating example embodiments of methods and / or routines for wirelessly transmitting data in an analyte monitoring system. As an initial description, those skilled in the art will understand that any or all method steps and / or routines described herein may include instructions (e.g., software, firmware, etc.) stored in the non-volatile memory of a sensor control device, a remote device (e.g., a smartphone, a reader), and / or any other computing device that is part of or communicates with the analyte monitoring system. Furthermore, when the instructions are executed by one or more processors of their respective computing devices, they may cause one or more processors to perform any or more method steps described herein. Moreover, although one or more of the method steps and / or routines described herein may include software and / or firmware stored on a single computing device, those skilled in the art will recognize that in some embodiments, the software and / or firmware may be distributed across multiple similar or different computing devices.

[0067] Figure 4 This is a flowchart illustrating an example embodiment of a method 400 for wirelessly transmitting data in an analyte monitoring system. Although not described, according to one aspect of the embodiment, if a unique identifier object does not already exist, it may be created as an initial step (i.e., prior to step 402). In some embodiments, for example, the unique identifier object may be a user-specific identifier object (e.g., a username, user profile, or user account ID) input, generated, or facilitated by a software application, module, or routine included in a sensor communication module (SCM) running on a reader device or smartphone. In other embodiments, the unique identifier object may be associated with a physical device (e.g., a sensor control device or reader device) and may include, for example, a serial number, a media access control (MAC) address, a public key, a private key, or a similar string.

[0068] At step 402, a unique identifier object is retrieved for identification purposes. Subsequently, at step 404, the sensor control device is activated. For example, in some embodiments, activation may be caused by a software application, module, or routine that includes an SCM and resides on a remote device (e.g., a reader device or smartphone), which may be configured to wirelessly transmit a series of commands to the sensor control device according to a wireless communication protocol (e.g., Near Field Communication (NFC) protocol). According to one aspect of the embodiment, as shown in steps 406 and 408, the activation step may include enabling the sensor control device to transmit sensor data via two (or more) wireless communication protocols. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the retrieved unique identifier object is passed as a parameter to the activation method step.

[0069] Still referencing Figure 4 At step 406, the sensor control device can transmit data via a first wireless communication protocol, wherein the first wireless communication protocol supports non-autonomous data communication with a remote device (e.g., a reader device or a smartphone). According to some embodiments, the first wireless communication protocol may, for example, include an NFC protocol, an infrared communication protocol, or a similar standard or proprietary wireless communication protocol configured to transmit data in the vicinity of the reader device or smartphone (e.g., within a short distance) in response to a request from the reader device or smartphone. For example, at step 410, the sensor control device receives a data request (e.g., an interrogation signal). In some embodiments, the request is initiated, for example, by scanning by the remote device. In response to the received request, at step 412, the sensor control device can then transmit sensor data to the remote device (e.g., a reader device or a smartphone) according to the first wireless communication protocol. According to some embodiments, the received sensor data may be further processed by an SCM residing on the reader or smartphone, stored in an internal database, and / or output to the display of the reader or smartphone. In some embodiments, for example, software residing on the reader or smartphone may be configured to display current or historical glucose readings.

[0070] According to another aspect of the embodiment, at step 408, the sensor control device may be enabled to transmit data via a second wireless communication protocol, wherein the second wireless communication protocol supports autonomous data communication with a remote device (e.g., a reader device or a smartphone). In some embodiments, the second wireless communication protocol may be enabled by a command initiated by a software application, module, or routine residing on the first remote device. In other embodiments, the second wireless communication protocol may be enabled in response to a proxy callback. According to some embodiments, for example, the second wireless communication protocol may include Bluetooth or Bluetooth Low Energy communication protocol, 802.11x protocol, cellular communication protocol, or similar standard or proprietary wireless communication protocol configured to autonomously transmit data within a range greater than that of the first wireless communication protocol.

[0071] Furthermore, according to some embodiments, at step 414, the activated sensor control device can transmit sensor data to a remote device (e.g., a reader device or smartphone) at a predetermined transmission rate. In some embodiments, the predetermined transmission rate may be every 30 seconds, every minute, every 2 minutes, every 5 minutes, etc. Those skilled in the art will understand that other transmission rates are feasible and fully included within the scope of this invention. Subsequently, the received sensor data may be further processed by software residing on the reader or smartphone, stored in an internal database, and / or output to the display of the reader or smartphone. In some embodiments, for example, the software residing on the reader or smartphone may be configured to display current or historical glucose readings.

[0072] Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating another example embodiment of a method 500 for wirelessly transmitting data in an analyte monitoring system. According to one aspect of the embodiment, method 500 may support a “switching” of a wireless communication link from a sensor control device from a first client application (e.g., on a first remote device) to another client application (e.g., on a second remote device). At step 502, a first wireless communication link is established between the sensor control device and the first remote device. According to some embodiments, the first wireless communication link may include Bluetooth or Bluetooth Low Energy connectivity. In some embodiments, the first remote device may be a reader or a smartphone. At step 504, the sensor control device transmits a first set of sensor data to the first remote device via the first wireless communication link. In some embodiments, the first set of sensor data may be transmitted at a predetermined transmission rate (e.g., every 30 seconds, every minute, every 5 minutes, etc.). Furthermore, according to some embodiments, the sensor data may include data indicating analyte levels, such as glucose levels, glucose change rates, glucose trends, or glucose alarm conditions.

[0073] At step 506, the first remote device transmits Sensor Context Information (SCI) to the second remote device. For example, in some embodiments, the second remote device may include an assistive smartphone or assistive reader device, a medication delivery system (e.g., an insulin pump or insulin pen), a motion device or equipment with integrated computing (e.g., a stationary bike or treadmill), a wearable computing device (e.g., a smartwatch or smart glasses), or any other computing device (such as a tablet, laptop, desktop computer, set-top box, server, workstation, etc.). According to another embodiment, the SCI may include activation information (e.g., NFC activation information), a public and / or private key for starting and / or stopping a Bluetooth channel, a sensor ID, remaining sensor lifetime, and other sensor information. In some embodiments, the SCI may also include user-related information (e.g., a user ID).

[0074] According to some embodiments, SCI can be transmitted from a first remote device to a second remote device via Bluetooth or Bluetooth Low Energy communication protocol, infrared communication protocol, NFC communication protocol, 802.11x communication protocol, cellular communication protocol, or any other standard or proprietary wired or wireless communication protocol. In other embodiments, SCI can be input to the second remote device via, for example, manual user input (e.g., via a keyboard, keypad, or touchscreen), scanning a barcode, or scanning a QR code. On the other hand, SCI transmission can occur in response to receiving instructions from the user via prompts or user interfaces displayed by a software application, module, or routine residing on the first or second remote device. In other embodiments, SCI transmission can occur automatically according to a predetermined schedule.

[0075] Still referencing Figure 5 At step 508, the first wireless communication link is disabled. According to some embodiments, this disabling can be performed or initiated by a software application, module, or routine residing on the first remote device. In other embodiments, the disabling can be performed or initiated by software on the second remote device. Subsequently, at step 510, a second wireless communication link is established between the sensor control device and the second remote device based on the received SCI. At step 512, the sensor control device sends a second set of sensor data to the second remote device.

[0076] According to some embodiments, both the first and second wireless communication links can include a Bluetooth communication channel. In other embodiments, the first wireless communication link can be established according to a first wireless communication protocol (e.g., Bluetooth or Bluetooth Low Energy communication protocol), and the second wireless communication link can be established according to a second wireless communication protocol (e.g., 802.11x communication protocol). Furthermore, although not described, those skilled in the art will understand that, prior to step 502, a unique identifier object can be generated and retrieved, and the sensor control device can be activated, as per [the relevant information]. Figure 4 Method 400 is described herein. In this regard, any one or more method steps described with respect to the example embodiments of the methods of this disclosure can be freely combined.

[0077] Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating another example embodiment of a method 600 for wirelessly transmitting data in an analyte monitoring system. According to one aspect of the embodiment, method 600 includes steps 602 and 604, which are identical to steps 502 and 504 of method 500. At step 606, a software application, module, or routine, including an SCM and residing on a first remote device, can detect a signal loss condition. For example, in some embodiments, the sensor control device can be obtained from the wireless transmission range of the first remote device. Therefore, at step 608, if the duration of the signal loss condition exceeds a predetermined waiting period, the software application, module, or routine residing on the first remote device can disable the first wireless communication link and processing state. In this regard, the sensor control device and the first remote device each transition to a disconnected state, and the sensor control device can initiate advertising to allow another software application, module, or routine, including an SCM on another remote device (with a suitable SCI), to connect to it.

[0078] Further examples of features and functions of software applications, modules, and routines in an analyte monitoring system for supporting wireless communication link switching between a specific sensor control device and multiple software applications and / or remote devices will now be described. According to some embodiments, example functions may be used to retrieve a list of active (non-expired) sensor control devices known as a specific instance of the SCM, allowing the software application to work with multiple sensor control devices simultaneously.

[0079] Example use cases

[0080] Example use cases for SCM will now be described. Before doing so, those skilled in the art will understand that any one or more steps of the example use cases described herein can be stored as software instructions in a sensor control device, reader device, remote computing device, or trusted computer system (e.g., regarding...). Figure 1The stored instructions are stored in non-transient memory (as described herein) or integrated into a motion device (e.g., a stationary bicycle or treadmill and its coupled computing device, a smartwatch, etc.). When executed, the processing circuitry of the associated device or computing system can perform any one or more steps of the example methods described herein. Those skilled in the art will also understand that in many embodiments, real-time sensor data, near-real-time sensor data, or historical sensor data can be used to perform any one or more method steps described herein.

[0081] Those skilled in the art will also understand that instructions can be stored in non-transient memory on a single device (e.g., a sensor control device, a reader device, and / or an auxiliary electronic computing device), or, alternatively, distributed across multiple discrete devices located in geographically dispersed locations (e.g., a cloud platform). Similarly, those skilled in the art will recognize that the representation of computing devices in the embodiments disclosed herein, such as... Figure 1 Those shown are intended to cover both physical devices and virtual devices (or “virtual machines”).

[0082] According to one example use case, the SCM can be used to send a Bluetooth or BLE key to an assistive electronic computing device (e.g., a stationary bike with an integrated computing device) so that a sensor control device can send analyte data directly to the assistive electronic computing device. In some embodiments, for example, a user can initiate the transmission of the Bluetooth or BLE key by instructing him or her to use the assistive electronic computing device on a reader device (e.g., a smartphone). In an alternative embodiment, the transmission of the Bluetooth or BLE key can be initiated automatically when the assistive electronic computing device detects that the user has started using the assistive electronic computing device. Subsequently, the SCM can terminate the communication channel between the sensor control device and the reader device and send the appropriate Bluetooth or BLE key to the assistive electronic computing device. Once the assistive electronic computing device receives the Bluetooth key, a secure Bluetooth or BLE communication channel can be established between the sensor control device and the assistive electronic computing device. According to some embodiments, the assistive electronic computing device may include a third-party application configured to operate on a mobile computing platform (e.g., Android), which can then receive and display the received analyte data.

[0083] According to another example use case, once the user has finished using the assistive electronic computing device (e.g., completed a practice routine), a third-party application on the assistive electronic computing device can send an instruction to the sensor control device and / or the reader device, indicating that the connection between the assistive electronic computing device and the sensor control device will be terminated. Subsequently, according to some embodiments, the sensor control device can terminate its connection with the assistive electronic computing device and then establish a new connection with the reader device.

[0084] According to some embodiments, certain data fields that can be obtained may include: age (in months and / or years), age range, gender, blood glucose data (including time and date stamps), exercise data (including the date / time of starting exercise and the date / time of stopping exercise), exercise intensity (including calories burned), exercise type (e.g., running, cycling, swimming, etc., which can be recorded by the user from a list or automatically determined when exercise starts / stops), country, nutrition (e.g., food, diet, or carbohydrates entered by the user, and a timestamp), height, weight, and / or ethnicity. Data can be obtained and / or categorized by a "user ID". If a field changes, the change date and the changed value can be recorded (e.g., if weight changes, a timestamp can indicate the date / time of the weight change). In some embodiments, data can be fed back to a data repository daily. Those skilled in the art will understand that data feedback to the data repository may occur more frequently or less frequently.

[0085] For each and every embodiment of the methods disclosed herein, systems and apparatuses capable of performing each of these embodiments are included within the scope of this disclosure. For example, embodiments of sensor control devices are disclosed, and these devices may have one or more analyte sensors, analyte monitoring circuitry (e.g., analog circuitry), memory (e.g., for storing instructions), power supply, communication circuitry, transmitter, receiver, clock, counter, time, temperature sensor, and a processor (e.g., for executing instructions) capable of performing or facilitating the execution of any and all method steps. These sensor control device embodiments can be used and are capable of being used to implement those steps performed by the sensor control device according to any and all methods described herein. Similarly, embodiments of reader devices are disclosed, and these devices may have one or more memories (e.g., for storing instructions), power supply, communication circuitry, transmitter, receiver, clock, counter, time, and a processor (e.g., for executing instructions), which can perform or facilitate the execution of any and all method steps. These reader device embodiments can be used and are capable of being used to implement those steps performed by the reader device according to any and all methods described herein. Embodiments of computer devices and servers are disclosed, and these devices may have one or more memories (e.g., for storing instructions), a power supply, communication circuitry, a transmitter, a receiver, a clock, a counter, a timer, and a processor (e.g., for executing instructions), which can perform any and all method steps or facilitate the execution of any and all method steps. These reader device embodiments can be used and can be used to implement those steps performed by the reader device according to any and all methods described herein.

[0086] Computer program instructions that operate according to the described subject can be written in any combination of one or more programming languages, including object-oriented programming languages ​​such as Java, JavaScript, SimalTalk, C++, C, Transact-SQL, XML, PHP, etc., as well as traditional procedural programming languages ​​such as the "C" programming language or similar languages. The program instructions, as a standalone software package, can execute entirely on the user's computing device, partially on the user's computing device, partially on the user's computing device and partially on a remote computing device, or entirely on a remote computing device or server. In the latter case, the remote computing device can be connected to the user's computing device via any type of network, including a local area network (LAN) or a wide area network (WAN), or it can be connected to an external computer (e.g., via the Internet through an Internet service provider).

[0087] It should be noted that all features, elements, components, functions, and steps described with respect to any embodiment provided herein are intended to be freely combined and substituted with features, elements, components, functions, and steps of any other embodiment. If a feature, element, component, function, or step is described with respect to only one embodiment, it should be understood that, unless expressly stated otherwise, that feature, element, component, function, or step may be used with every other embodiment described herein. Therefore, this paragraph serves as the premise and written support for the introduction of the claims at any time, which combine features, elements, components, functions, and steps from different embodiments, or substitute features, elements, components, functions, and steps from one embodiment for features, elements, components, functions, and steps from another embodiment, even if not expressly stated in the foregoing description, such combinations or substitutions are possible in certain circumstances. It is expressly acknowledged that expressing every possible combination and substitution would be overly cumbersome, especially considering that the permissibility of each such combination and substitution will be readily recognized by those skilled in the art.

[0088] Where the embodiments disclosed herein include or are associated with memory, storage, and / or computer-readable media, the memory, storage, and / or computer-readable media are non-transient. Therefore, within the scope of one or more claims covering the memory, storage, and / or computer-readable media, the memory, storage, and / or computer-readable media are merely non-transient.

[0089] As used herein and in the appended claims, unless the context clearly specifies otherwise, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include the plural reference.

[0090] While the embodiments are susceptible to various modifications and alternatives, specific examples have been shown in the accompanying drawings and described in detail herein. However, it should be understood that these embodiments are not limited to the specific forms disclosed, but rather encompass all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of this disclosure. Furthermore, any feature, function, step, or element of the embodiments may be recited in or added to the claims, and negative limitations on the scope of the claims may be defined by features, functions, steps, or elements not within this scope.

Claims

1. A method for wirelessly transmitting data in an analyte monitoring system, the method comprising: The sensor control device is activated by a first application on a first remote device using a first wireless communication protocol. The first application on the first remote device sends sensor context information, which enables the second remote device to establish wireless communication with the sensor control device, to the second remote device. The second remote device includes one or more processors coupled to a memory that includes information about the active sensor control device. and A second wireless communication link is established between the sensor control device and the second remote device using the sensor context information and information about the active sensor control device according to the second wireless communication protocol.

2. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: The sensor control device sends a second set of sensor data to the second remote device via the second wireless communication link.

3. The method according to claim 1, wherein, Activating the sensor control device further includes enabling the sensor control device to autonomously transmit data according to the second wireless communication protocol.

4. The method according to claim 3, wherein, Activating the sensor control device further includes enabling the sensor control device to autonomously transmit data at a predetermined transmission rate.

5. The method according to claim 1, wherein, The first remote device performs the transmission of the sensor context information to the second remote device.

6. The method according to claim 1, wherein, The sensor control device performs the transmission of the sensor context information to the second remote device.

7. The method according to claim 1, wherein, The first remote device includes a first smartphone.

8. The method according to claim 7, wherein, The second remote device includes a second smartphone.

9. The method according to claim 1, wherein, The first wireless communication protocol includes the Near Field Communication (NFC) protocol.

10. The method according to claim 1, wherein, The second wireless communication protocol includes standard communication protocols.

11. An analyte monitoring system, comprising: Sensor control device, including: A first communication circuit is configured to transmit data according to a first wireless communication protocol. The second communication circuit is configured to transmit data according to a second wireless communication protocol, and The analyte sensor is at least partially configured to come into contact with the subject's bodily fluids; The first remote device includes: The wireless communication circuit of the first remote device, One or more processors of the first remote device are coupled to the memory of the first remote device, the memory of the first remote device storing instructions, which, when executed by the one or more processors of the first remote device, cause the one or more processors of the first remote device to: The sensor control device is activated using the first wireless communication protocol, and The sensor context information is sent from the first application to the second remote device, enabling the second remote device to establish wireless communication with the sensor control device; and The second remote device includes: The wireless communication circuit of the second remote device, One or more processors of the second remote device are coupled to the memory of the second remote device, the memory of the second remote device including information about the active sensor control device and storing instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors of the second remote device, cause the one or more processors of the second remote device to: A second wireless communication link is established between the sensor control device and the second remote device using the sensor context information and information about the active sensor control device according to the second wireless communication protocol.

12. The analyte monitoring system according to claim 11, wherein, The sensor context information includes one or more of the following: sensor activation information, public key, private key, and remaining sensor lifetime information.

13. The analyte monitoring system according to claim 11, wherein, The sensor context information includes the user ID.

14. The analyte monitoring system according to claim 11, wherein, The memory of the first remote device also stores instructions that cause the one or more processors of the first remote device to send the sensor context information to the second remote device according to a standard communication protocol.

15. The analyte monitoring system according to claim 11, wherein, The memory of the first remote device also stores instructions that cause the one or more processors of the first remote device to output processed sensor data to the display of the first remote device.

16. The analyte monitoring system according to claim 11, wherein, The first remote device includes a first smartphone.

17. The analyte monitoring system according to claim 16, wherein, The second remote device includes a second smartphone.

18. The analyte monitoring system according to claim 11, wherein, The first wireless communication protocol includes the Near Field Communication (NFC) protocol.

19. The analyte monitoring system according to claim 11, wherein, The second wireless communication protocol includes standard communication protocols.

20. A method for wirelessly transmitting data in an analyte monitoring system, the method comprising: The sensor control device is activated by a first application on a first remote device using a first wireless communication protocol. The first application on the first remote device sends sensor context information, enabling the second remote device to establish wireless communication with the sensor control device, to the second remote device. The second remote device includes one or more processors coupled to a memory containing information about the active sensor control device. The sensor context information includes one or more of the following: sensor activation information, a public key, a private key, remaining sensor lifetime information, and a user ID. A second wireless communication link is established between the sensor control device and the second remote device using the sensor context information and information about the active sensor control device according to the second wireless communication protocol.

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