Method and device for urine analysis

Abstract

A urine analysis device (12) comprising a housing (22) configured to be positioned completely within a toilet bowl (10), the housing having a front face (25) for receiving a stream of urine directly from a user urinating on the toilet bowl, a rear face (26) opposite the front face, and a collection port (32) disposed on the front face or the rear face, wherein the housing contains a test assembly (24) configured to perform an analysis on urine collected via the collection port. Methods of collection and corresponding analysis.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure is in the field of urine analysis devices positioned inside a toilet bowl. The present disclosure also relates to a method for analyzing urine received in a toilet bowl. Background Art

[0002] Many biological parameters are reflected in an individual's urine. For example, health problems such as urinary tract infection, diabetes or kidney failure can be detected from a urine sample. Urine samples can also reflect the quality of diet, identify fertility or pregnancy, and detect drug or tobacco use. Therefore, it is of interest to monitor various biological parameters periodically.

[0003] It is known to provide toilet bowl devices with urinalysis functionality. These devices are capable of taking a urine sample from a toilet bowl and analysing the urine sample to determine the level of a biological parameter.

[0004] US5720054 and US10383606 describe collecting urine samples via a mobile arm located in the toilet bowl. However, this solution makes it difficult to collect enough urine to perform an inductive analysis without bubbles. In addition, the use of a mobile arm adds complexity to the device.

[0005] A urine analysis device attached to the rim of a toilet bowl is known from US20180188231. However, urine collection still seems to leave room for improvement.

[0006] US20170284925 proposes integrating a urine sampler into a toilet bowl. Nevertheless, this solution requires adapting the toilet bowl to install and use the device.

[0007] Therefore, there is a need for a urine analysis device that can collect a urine sample from a toilet bowl without the disadvantages of the prior art. Summary of the invention

[0008] The present description aims to provide a urine analysis device and related methods that do not have at least one of the aforementioned disadvantages.

[0009] Specifically, a urine analysis device is provided, comprising a housing configured to be positioned entirely within a toilet bowl, the housing having a front for directly receiving a stream of urine from a user urinating on the toilet bowl, a rear opposite the front, and a collection port disposed on the front or rear, wherein the housing contains a test assembly configured to perform an analysis on urine collected via the collection port.

[0010] Thus, advantageously, the urine analysis device can collect urine directly via the collection port by runoff on the side of the housing. The user does not need to worry about the position of the housing when urinating in the toilet. In addition, the housing is compact enough to be completely positioned inside the toilet. It can be inconspicuous and easy to install and remove. It can also be suitable for any type of toilet. In addition, the housing does not have protrusions that the user finds uncomfortable and may collect dirt. The one-piece or monolithic appearance of the housing gives a stable and simple impression.

[0011] Urine collection becomes easy and the user only has to urinate without really worrying about the positioning of the device.

[0012] The features outlined in the following paragraphs can be implemented optionally. They can be implemented independently of each other or in combination with each other.

[0013] The collection port may be located in a normal use position near the lower end of the housing. For example, the collection port may be located in a normal use position on the lower half of the housing. Thus, urine flowing down the side of the housing due to gravity may be collected. The urine collection area is increased, and it is sufficient for a small amount of urine to reach the housing to drip down along the wall of the housing and reach the collection port.

[0014] The shell may not have ridges. Thus, urine can flow along the shell without falling or forming bubbles.

[0015] The front and / or rear face may contain reliefs that form a path for urine to the collection port. Whenever urine contacts the housing, it will be directed to the collection port. Thus, the urine collection surface is increased. The reliefs may be negative (such as recesses) or positive (such as protrusions). For example, the reliefs are formed in the housing (front and / or rear face).

[0016] The collection port is located in a recess having a border, the recess having two transverse grooves extending from the edge of the shell to the central part of the recess, the central part of the recess accommodating the collection port. The depth of the transverse grooves may increase from the edge to the central part. The border may have an inflection point between at least one transverse groove and the central part. The distance between the border of the recess and the edge of the shell may increase from the start of the transverse groove to the central part. The central part may have a depth of 3 and 8 cm. 2 The area between.

[0017] The recess (or a central portion of the recess) may extend towards the interior of the housing over a distance of between 1 and 4 cm.

[0018] The housing may have a generally rounded pebble shape. Thus, the shape of the housing is defined by the curved surface and is a simple and natural shape that the user likes to see. Urine can flow down the entire housing without stagnation or formation of bubbles.

[0019] The urine analysis device may have no moving parts outside the housing. The urine analysis device does not require seals. The housing has no clogging points where urine may stagnate. The urine analysis device is very hygienic.

[0020] The housing may comprise a discharge port configured to discharge urine. Accordingly, excess urine collected may be swept from the urine analysis device. The urine collection is thus not contaminated by a previous collection. Several consecutive urine collections may be performed.

[0021] The discharge port and the collection port can be equipped with a metal mesh filter. In this way, the filter can prevent the introduction of contaminants or components that may clog the test system and filter the urine before it reaches the collection port.

[0022] The shell may be made of a hydrophilic material, preferably one of the following: ceramic, polyamide, silicone, hydrophilic polymer, and / or the shell may be treated with a hydrophilic surface treatment. Therefore, urine that initially contacts the shell will adhere to and spread on the shell.

[0023] The diameter of the housing may be between 50 mm and 150 mm, preferably the diameter may be between 80 mm and 120 mm, and more preferably the diameter of the housing is about 100 mm. The housing is thus compact enough to be completely received in a toilet bowl. The housing is discrete. The housing is also large enough to contact urine being received in the toilet bowl over a large area.

[0024] The housing may be composed of a front shell layer and a rear shell layer. The front shell layer and the rear shell layer may be joined by screwing, gluing, clamping, magnetizing or ultrasonic welding. In this way, the assembly of the housing is easier. In addition, the joining between the front shell layer and the rear shell layer may allow urine to flow between the front shell layer and the rear shell layer.

[0025] The urine analysis device may comprise a sensor for the presence of urine adjacent to the collection port, the sensor being configured to detect the presence of urine, preferably the sensor being a temperature sensor. Thus, the urine analysis device may start performing analysis when urine is detected on the housing.

[0026] The urine presence sensor may be a temperature sensor. The temperature sensor may distinguish urine and water detected on the housing. In addition, the temperature sensor may detect a fertility period. Thus, the temperature sensor may detect the presence of urine and perform analysis. The number of components of the urine analysis device is reduced.

[0027] The urine analysis device may include a fastener configured to position the housing on the inner wall of the toilet bowl. Thus, the urine analysis device may be moved away or removed from the toilet bowl.

[0028] The urine analysis device may include a module for communicating with a device and / or a server and / or a smartphone. Thus, the urine analysis device may be controlled to start performing the analysis. The urine analysis device may analyze and transmit one or more test results.

[0029] The device may comprise a button.The device may comprise a button, whereby the analysis may be triggered when a user presses the button.

[0030] The button may be equipped with a biometric sensor. This allows identification of the user and triggering the analysis only if the user is identified. The analysis may be adapted to the identified user.

[0031] The test assembly may include one or more of the following: a plurality of test strips, a microfluidic chip, a field effect transistor, a conductivity measuring device, a pH measuring device, a spectroscopic measuring device, an electrochemical measuring device. Thus, a single housing may be adapted to analyze various biological parameters contained in urine. The urine analysis device is universal.

[0032] According to another aspect, a method of operating a urine analysis device to collect urine is provided, comprising:

[0033] -Detect the presence of urine near the collection port;

[0034] - Collect urine along the front and / or back runoff;

[0035] -Analyze the collected urine to establish one or more analytical results.

[0036] The features outlined in the following paragraphs can be implemented optionally. They can be implemented independently of each other or in combination with each other.

[0037] The method may be triggered by interaction with a user. The method may be triggered by pressing a button. The method may be initiated by detecting that a user is near a toilet. The method may also be initiated after urine is detected on a urine analysis device.

[0038] Test results can be transmitted to the user's smartphone and / or a remote server. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0039] Other features, details and advantages will be apparent from the following detailed description and from an analysis of the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0040] [ Figure 1 ] shows a schematic cross-section of a toilet bowl equipped with a urine analysis device according to the present invention.

[0041] [ Figure 2 ] schematically indicates Figure 1 details.

[0042] [ Figure 3 ] shows that it can be implemented in Figure 1 A perspective view of a first housing according to a first embodiment of a urine analysis device.

[0043] [ Figure 4 ] shows Figure 3 The first shell and the Figure 1 An exploded perspective view of a test assembly in a urine analysis device.

[0044] [ Figure 5 ] shows that it can be implemented in Figure 1 FIG. 1 is a partial exploded perspective view of a second housing according to a second embodiment of a urine analysis device.

[0045] [ Figure 6 ] shows that it can be implemented in Figure 1 Details of the third housing according to the third embodiment of the urine analysis device.

[0046] [ Figure 7 ]exhibit Figure 3 Another perspective view of the first shell in FIG.

[0047] [ Figure 8 ] schematically shows that it can be implemented in Figure 1 A front view of a housing according to a fourth embodiment of a urine analysis device.

[0048] [ Fig. 9 ] schematically shows the test assembly.

[0049] [ Fig.10 ] schematically shows a flowchart according to one embodiment.

[0050] [ Fig.11 ] schematically shows a flowchart according to another embodiment.

[0051] [ Fig.12 ] schematically shows according to another embodiment Figure 1 details.

[0052] [ Fig.13 ] shows a rear perspective view of an apparatus according to another embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0053] Figure 1 A toilet 10 is shown equipped with a urine analysis device 12. In a known manner, the toilet comprises a tank 14, a bowl 16, a seat 18 and a cover 20. The urine analysis device 12 is arranged on the inner wall 16a of the toilet bowl 16. Advantageously, the urine analysis device 12 is completely received in the toilet bowl 16. In fact, the urine analysis device 12 does not protrude from the upper rim 16b of the toilet bowl and thus remains inconspicuous.

[0054] Here, the urine analysis device 12 is positioned in the path of the urine stream secreted by the user. The urine analysis device receives the urine stream when the user sits on the toilet to urinate. The position of the urine analysis device is thus suitable for any type of user, male or female, regardless of age. Thus, the user can urinate in the toilet without having to worry about the position of the urine analysis device.

[0055] Here, the urine analysis device 12 is also positioned in the path of the flush from the tank 14. Thus, the urine analysis device can be flushed when the toilet is flushed. The urine analysis device is very hygienic.

[0056] The urine analysis device 12 comprises a housing 22 enclosing a test assembly 24. The test assembly is intended to analyze urine being received in the urine analysis device.

[0057] The housing 22 is removably arranged in the toilet bowl 16. Thus, the analysis device 12 can be removed or repositioned in the toilet bowl. The urine analysis device is inconspicuous. In addition, the urine analysis device can be removed to recharge the battery 94 or to resupply the consumables 44 of the test assembly 24.

[0058] exist Figure 2 In the example shown, the housing 22 is arranged on the toilet bowl wall 16a. The housing is positioned by fasteners 66. Fasteners 66 include suction cups 88 intended to cooperate with the toilet bowl wall 16a and magnets 70. Magnets 70 are intended to cooperate with magnets 23 (or several pieces of ferromagnetic material) arranged inside the housing. This configuration allows the housing to be easily removed or repositioned in the toilet bowl.

[0059] exist Fig.12 In the example shown, the shape of the fastener 66 can also be circular. The fastener 66 fits into a complementary housing provided on the housing 22. The housing can be provided at the battery charging connector 94 of the urine analysis device 12. Thus, the charging connector can be protected from contact with the water of the toilet 10.

[0060] Mechanical aids, including indentations, may be provided on the fastener 66. The mechanical aids may facilitate positioning of the housing 22 when inserted into the toilet 10. Proper positioning of the housing 22 in the toilet 10 ensures proper functioning of the urine analysis device 12.

[0061] The fastener 66 may also include a ball and socket connection. The ball and socket connection allows the housing 22 to be oriented to increase the probability of contact with urine being received in the toilet bowl 16.

[0062] Alternatively, the fastener 66 may be a hook mounted on the rim 16 b of the toilet bowl 16 .

[0063] General features of the housing

[0064] The housing 22 has the external shape of a rounded pebble. In other words, the housing 22 has the shape of a flattened sphere. The axis A is the centerline of the housing. The housing 22 has a front face 25 and a rear face 26 that are substantially perpendicular to the axis A. Advantageously, the front face 25 may be substantially rotationally symmetrical, which provides a streamlined appearance to the device once installed. Thus, urine may be collected directly from the faces 25, 26 of the housing. The housing acts as a urine collector.

[0065] The front 25 faces the interior of the toilet bowl 16. The front 25 is thus intended to receive urine when a user sits on the toilet bowl 10 to urinate. The rear 26 faces the inner wall 16a of the toilet bowl 16. The front 25 and the rear 26 are connected by a curved edge 27. The respective curved edges 27 of the front and rear encounter flushing at the equatorial junction area. Therefore, the outer surface of the shell 22 composed of the front 25, the rear 26 and the curved edge 27 is defined by a curve and forms a generally convex object. The shell 22 does not have a ridge. Urine can flow over the entire outer surface of the shell 22 without falling off the shell or forming bubbles, which may impair urine analysis.

[0066] A ridge may be defined as an abrupt transition between two surfaces. A curved surface may be defined as a surface having a continuous derivative and a small second order derivative.

[0067] The outer surface of the housing 22 may also be white or light colored. The color of the outer surface may be similar to the color of the toilet bowl, thereby making the device more inconspicuous.

[0068] In general, the housing 22 has a diameter D22 between 50 mm and 150 mm measured in a direction perpendicular to the axis A. Preferably, a diameter D22 between 80 mm and 120 mm can be selected; in some embodiments, a diameter close to 100 mm can be selected. The housing 22 also has a thickness E between 15 mm and 50 mm, preferably about 30 mm, measured in the direction of the axis A. Therefore, the housing 22 is compact enough to be completely received in the toilet bowl 16 of the toilet 10. The urine analysis device 12 is discrete. In addition, the housing 22 is large enough to contact the urine being received in the toilet bowl 16 over a large area. Thus, the user can urinate in the toilet without having to worry about the urine analysis device or aiming hastily.

[0069] In another aspect, in one embodiment, the housing has an overall form factor such that the E / D22 ratio is in the range of [0.2-0.5], and preferably in the range of [0.3-0.4]; these ratios are reminiscent of natural pebbles and give the device a soothing appearance.

[0070] The outer surface of the shell 22 is smooth. Therefore, the urine flow contacting the shell 22 adheres to the outer surface of the shell and spreads over the outer surface. Preferably, the shell 22 is made of a hydrophilic material. For example, the material of the shell 22 can be one of the following: ceramic, polyamide (PA), silicone, or a hydrophilic polymer. The outer surface of the shell 22 can also be treated with a hydrophilic surface treatment, such as the hydrophilic surface treatment from Aculon. Hydrophilic polymers, or from Arkema

[0071] like Figure 4 As can be seen more clearly in FIG. 1 , according to a particular embodiment, the housing 22 is formed as an assembly of two half shells and consists of a front shell 28 and a rear shell 30. The front shell 28 and the rear shell 30 form an annular joint 31 (also called edge 31 ) of the housing 22 in a plane perpendicular to the axis A. When the housing 22 consists of the front shell 28 and the rear shell 30, assembly of the urine analysis device 12 is facilitated.

[0072] The front shell 28 and the rear shell 30 are joined together to hold the outer surface of the shell 22 defined by the curve. Thus, the annular joint 31 between the front shell and the rear shell allows urine to flow between the front face 25 and the rear face 26. The joint 31 minimizes the effect of urine flow on the shell.

[0073] The front shell 28 and the rear shell 30 can be assembled by screwing, gluing, clamping, magnetizing or ultrasonic welding. Of course, other fastening means can be used to assemble the front shell 28 and the rear shell 30.

[0074] For example, the front shell 28 and the rear shell 30 are screwed together. Thus, the interior portion of the front shell 28 includes threads. The threads of the front shell 28 are intended to cooperate with the complementary threads of the rear shell 30. This allows the housing 22 to be easily disassembled to access the test assembly 24 inside the housing.

[0075] In another example, the inner part of the rear shell 30 comprises a thread 140 intended to cooperate with the thread of the front shell 28. The two shells 28, 30 are assembled by screwing. Alternatively, the assembly of the two shells 28, 30 may be a bayonet system.

[0076] There may be a seal at the joint 31 between the front shell 28 and the rear shell 30. Thus, the housing 22 is waterproof. The interior of the housing 22 is impermeable to urine, water from the tank 14 or the tub 16, and any other type of contaminants. Only the collection port and the discharge port connect the exterior and interior of the housing, as described in more detail below.

[0077] Other functions supported by the device

[0078] exist Figure 5 In the example shown, a removable cover 90 is arranged on the rear shell. The removable cover allows easy access to the test assembly 24. In particular, the removable cover allows the consumables 44 of the test assembly 24 to be refilled.

[0079] Here, the removable cover 90 is attached to the rear shell 30 by a clip, screw or bayonet mechanism. Of course, other attachment means can be implemented to secure the removable cover to the rear shell 30. Alternatively, in another example, the removable cover can be attached to the front shell 28.

[0080] The removable cover 90 is arranged in a sealed manner. For example, the joint between the removable cover and the rear shell 30 may include a seal. Therefore, the interior of the housing 22 is not permeable to urine, water from the water tank 14 or the tub 16, and any other type of contaminants.

[0081] In another example, the removable cover 90 is formed by the front shell 28 of the housing 22. The removable cover 90 can thus be removed by unscrewing the front shell 28 from the rear shell 30. The housing 22 has fewer joints that may be contaminated and / or wetted by toilet water.

[0082] The housing 22 has a collection port 32. The collection port can receive urine that flows due to gravity on the outer surface of the housing 22. The urine is collected directly from the sides 25, 26 of the housing.

[0083] The collection port 32 is located on the lower end 36 of the housing. When the housing 22 is positioned in the toilet bowl, the lower end 36 faces the bottom of the toilet bowl 16. This position corresponds to the normal use position. This position allows urine to be collected on most of the outer surface of the housing by gravity.

[0084] In the present case, the collecting port 32 is separated from the lower edge 22a of the housing 22 by a distance D less than 40 mm, preferably less than 20 mm. According to a particular embodiment, the collecting port 32 is arranged a few millimeters above the bottom edge of the housing. Alternatively, the collecting port may be on the bottom edge 22a.

[0085] The collection port 32 is a generally circular opening, preferably between 0.3 mm and 2 mm in diameter. The diameter of the collection port may be selected to maximise the volume of urine collected from the outer surface of the housing.

[0086] The housing 22 has a drain port 34. The drain port allows excess urine to be purged from the urine analysis device.

[0087] The discharge port 34 is separable from the collection port 32. Thus, the discharge port is also located on the lower end of the housing 22, near the collection port. The discharge port is also a circular opening. The discharge hole 34 has a diameter between 0.3 mm and 2 mm. In the normal use position, as shown in FIG. Figure 7 In the embodiment shown in , the drain port may be below the collection port.

[0088] The exhaust port 34 may also be located away from the collection port 32. The location of the exhaust port 34 may be selected to facilitate access to the exhaust port by the test assembly 24. For example, Fig.13 This exhaust port 34 is shown. This will be described in more detail below.

[0089] Or, if Figure 5 As shown, the exhaust port 34 may be identical to the collection port 32. The single port limits the number of openings to the interior of the housing 22. Thus, the risk of introducing contaminants or components that could clog the test assembly 24 is reduced.

[0090] like Figure 6 As seen in the figure, the tops of the collection port 32 and the discharge port 34 may be covered with a metal mesh filter 92. The filter covers the ports 32, 34. The mesh filter 92 is, for example, oval in shape and covers the ports 32, 34. The common mesh of the filter 92 is, for example, 20 microns. The filter 92 prevents the introduction of contaminants or components that may clog the test assembly 24, and filters the urine received in the collection port 32. Alternatively, the filter 92 can be cleaned by the air flow generated by the air pump. In one embodiment, only the collection port 32 is protected by the metal mesh filter 92. The discharge port 34, due to its arrangement, function and the flow rate of its injection, is unlikely to contaminate the collection port 32.

[0091] To be precise, in Figures 2 to 7 In the example shown in FIG. 1 , the collection port 32 and the discharge port 34 are positioned on the rear face 26 of the housing. Thus, when the urine analysis device 12 is positioned in the toilet bowl 10, the collection port and the discharge port face the wall 16a of the toilet bowl 16. This position allows the collection port and the discharge port to be hidden from view by the front face 25 of the housing. The front face visible to the user resembles a simple uniform pebble as already mentioned, without any individual points or holes, which gives the urine analysis device a slightly fantastic appearance (it looks very simple, but produces very complex results). Also, it should be noted that this positioning prevents the introduction of contaminants or components that could clog the test assembly 24.

[0092] The collection port 32 and the discharge port 34 are located in a recess 37. The recess 37 is formed on the housing 22, in particular on the rear face 26. The recess extends inwardly from the housing 22 by a maximum distance between 1 and 4 cm, for example between 1.5 cm and 3 cm. The recess 37 has two transverse grooves 39 extending from the rear face 31 of the housing to a central portion 43 of the recess 37 having the openings 32, 34. The depth of the transverse grooves 39, i.e. the distance from the rear face 26 to the interior of the housing 22 in the direction of the axis A, increases from the rear face 31 to the central portion 43. Thus, the recess 37 forms a urine path from the front face 25 to the collection port 32. Advantageously, the recess 37 allows urine flowing down along the front face 25 to be collected and directed to the collection port. Thus, the volume of urine reaching the collection port from the front face 25 of the housing is sufficient to meet the needs of the analysis.

[0093] The central portion 43 of the recess 37, which serves as a buffer reservoir, typically extends inwardly from the housing by a distance of between 1 and 4 cm, such as between 1.5 cm and 3 cm. Laterally, these same dimensions of the central portion 43 are applicable. In one embodiment, the area of ​​the central portion 43 of the recess is at least 3 cm 2 and less than 8cm 2 In this way, the recess 37 and in particular the central portion 43 of the recess 37 forms a buffer pool (open to the outside) which can receive urine that has flowed along the device runoff, thereby ensuring that the collection port 32 receives urine.

[0094] The recess 37 may extend across the entire lower half of the device 12. Assuming the device 12 has a spherical shape, it is possible to define each point of the junction 31 angularly about the axis A. By defining the collection port 32 as angle zero, the position of the junction 31 from which the groove 39 is formed may be at 90° (on both sides), or between 80 or 90°. Or, for example, as Fig.13 , the position may be closer to the collection port 32 and may be between 20° and 55°. As for the center portion 43, it is positioned less than 20°. Therefore, depending on the position of the starting point of the groove 39 on the joint 31 (90°, 80°, 55° or 20°, etc.), the groove 39 is longer or shorter.

[0095] exist Fig.13 In one embodiment shown in FIG. 1 , for example, only the collection port 32 is in the recess 37. The discharge port 34 is located on the rear face 26, outside the recess 37 (typically between 20 and 40°). In the normal use position of the device 12, the discharge port 34 is thus higher than the collection port 32. The spacing between the two ports 32, 34 makes the recess 37 neater. In addition, it has been observed that the discharge port 34 arranged in this way does not cause contamination of the collection port 32.

[0096] The border 40 defining the recess 37 is rounded. In other words, the border 40 is defined by a curved surface. The edge 40 has no ridges. Urine in contact with the rear face 26 can flow to the collection port 32 without falling from the housing or forming bubbles. Therefore, the volume of urine reaching the collection port from the rear face of the housing is increased. The absence of ridges is verified along the border 40 (along a line) and also perpendicular to the border 40 (also along a line). In other words, the three-dimensional surface defining the recess 37 (and containing the border 40) has no ridges. This means that the transition from the rear face 30 to the border 40 has no ridges, and the transition from the border to the interior of the recess has no ridges.

[0097] In an example embodiment, collection port 32 is positioned 8 mm below boundary 40 .

[0098] The boundary 40 of the recess 37 may have an inflection point between each transverse groove 39 and the central portion 43, so that, following the edge of the recess 37, the transverse groove 39 is convex (convexity is defined from the perspective of the material of the device rather than from the perspective of the negative space complementary to the device), and then an inflection point is formed and the central portion 43 is concave, and then another inflection point is formed and another transverse groove 39 is convex. Alternatively, the boundary 40 of the recess 37 has no inflection point and remains convex.

[0099] For the purpose of use (i.e., the urine analysis device 12 is laterally placed in the middle of the inner wall 16a of the cylinder 16a), the recess 37 is generally symmetrical. However, the recess may have a slight asymmetry to facilitate installation on the slightly left or right side of the inner wall 16a of the cylinder 16, and the collection port 32 may be positioned slightly to the right or left (so that in use, the collection port 32 is generally laterally centered on the inner wall 16a of the cylinder 16).

[0100] The distance between the boundary 40 and the lower edge of the device 12 (i.e., the distance between the segment intersecting the boundary 40 and the lower edge of the device, the segment being orthogonal to the tangent of the edge at the intersection point) increases from the position of the joint 31 from which the transverse groove extends (i.e., the starting point of the transverse groove) to the central portion 43.

[0101] Or, in Figure 8 In the example shown, the collection port 32 is located on the front face 25 of the housing, integrated with the discharge port 34. Urine flowing down the front face thus reaches the collection port more directly.

[0102] As shown, the collection port 32 is on a protrusion 52 of the front face 25. The protrusion 52 extends from the engagement portion 31 to the lower end 36 of the housing having the port 32. The protrusion also forms a path for urine from the engagement portion 31 of the housing to the collection port 32. The protrusion allows urine dripping from the front face 25 to be collected and directed to the collection port.

[0103] It should be noted that the collecting port may have an upwardly directed mouth, or a downwardly directed mouth, without excluding a completely radially directed mouth (ie flush with the overall surface of the housing).

[0104] The housing 22 is not limited solely to the modes of realization described above with respect to the figures, but, on the contrary, is susceptible of numerous variants that can be realized by a person skilled in the art.

[0105] Specifically, the housing 22 can take any geometric shape defined by a curve. Specifically, the housing can have the shape of a rhombus or an inverted teardrop. In this case, the housing has a point on the lower part to guide urine toward the collection orifice 32.

[0106] The collection port 32 and the discharge port 34 (if present) may be located on a positive relief such as a protrusion or a negative relief such as a groove or a recess. Generally speaking, the relief may be any geometric structure that allows urine to flow over the housing 22 and be directed to the collection port 32 without falling off the housing or forming bubbles.

[0107] In one embodiment, the collection port 32 is disposed on the front face 25 , while the exhaust port 34 is located on the rear face 26 .

[0108] Test assembly

[0109] Then, refer to Fig. 9 The test assembly 24 is described in more detail.

[0110] The test assembly 24 is controlled by an electronic control unit 45. The electronic control unit 45 is within the housing 22. The electronic control unit 45 controls the components of the test assembly to perform a urine analysis and obtain one or more test results.

[0111] The test assembly 24 includes an analysis system 50. The analysis system 50 performs analysis on the urine collected from the collection port 32 to establish one or more results. Here, the analysis may be one or more of the following:

[0112] - Analysis using a conventional or horizontal or vertical flow immunoassay type colorimetric strip: urine is received on a strip containing one or more reagents sensitive to one or more components of urine, and an analysis based on optical detection is used to obtain the analytical result;

[0113] - analysis using a microfluidic chip of the "lab on a chip" type: said chip mixes the urine with one or more reagents contained in microdroplets, and an analysis based on optical detection makes it possible to obtain the results of the analysis;

[0114] - Analysis using a microfluidic chip on a porous support: mixing of urine with one or more reagents is achieved by capillary action;

[0115] - Analysis using field effect transistors, as described in the published patent application Withings EP3562407;

[0116] - Analysis by urine conductivity measurement;

[0117] - Analysis by measuring pH using a metric pH probe;

[0118] - analysis by spectrophotometry;

[0119] -Analysis by electrochemical measurements.

[0120] The test assembly 24 includes a urine delivery member 48. The urine delivery member 48 allows urine to be delivered from the collection port 32 to the discharge port 34 via the analysis system 50. Preferably, the urine delivery member 48 includes a collection channel 82, a sweep channel 84, and a pump 86.

[0121] The collection channel 82 connects the collection port 32 to the analysis system 50. The collection channel 82 allows urine to be transported from the collection port 32 to the analysis system 50.

[0122] The sweep channel 84 connects the analysis system 50 to the discharge port 34. Specifically, the sweep channel allows the urine contained in the urine delivery member 48 to be emptied. Preferably, the sweep channel 84 is hydrophobic, thereby allowing better emptying of urine. Therefore, the risk of contamination of the urine delivered between two consecutive collections is reduced.

[0123] The pump 86 is arranged between the first portion 82 a and the second portion 82 b of the collecting channel 82 .

[0124] The pump 86 can draw urine from the collection port 32. For example, the pump 86 draws between 5 microliters and 1 mL, preferably about 20 microliters. The pump can then deliver a sufficient volume of urine to perform an inductive analysis. The pumping rate of the pump is selected according to the diameter of the collection port. Thus, the pump can draw urine from the collection port to the analysis system 50 without forming bubbles.

[0125] The pump 86 can also draw air from the collection port 32. The air flows through the urine delivery member 48 to the discharge port 34 to discharge the urine contained in the urine delivery member. The urine being collected for analysis is thus protected from possible contamination from a previous collection.

[0126] Alternatively, the pump 86 may draw water to discharge urine contained in the urine delivery member 48 after the toilet flush 10 is activated.

[0127] Here, the pump 86 is a piezoelectric pump. By using a piezoelectric pump, the urine analysis device may not contain a controlled valve, which can simplify the urine analysis device.

[0128] Alternatively, the pump can be a pneumatic system. Thus, the pneumatic system is configured to create negative pressure to draw urine from the collection port, and to create positive pressure to push urine to the analysis system 50 and the discharge port. This solution allows precise control of the volume collected by the urine analysis device 12.

[0129] The test assembly 24 includes a urine presence sensor 38. The urine presence sensor 38 is disposed proximate the collection port 32. The urine presence sensor then detects when urine is present proximate the collection port.

[0130] According to one embodiment, the urine presence sensor 38 may form a ring around the collection port.The integration of the urine presence sensor into the urine analysis device is thus discrete.

[0131] Preferably, urine presence sensor 38 is a temperature sensor, such as a thermistor. This is because the temperature sensor can distinguish between urine and water from toilet bowl 10. In addition, the temperature sensor can also be used to measure the temperature of urine. Specifically, the temperature of urine can be used to detect fertility. The use of a temperature sensor thus reduces the number of components operated by test assembly 24 to perform the analysis. The complexity and cost of manufacturing a urine analysis device are reduced.

[0132] Alternatively, the urine presence sensor 38 may be any type of liquid sensor, such as a capacitive or resistive sensor. Thus, the temperature sensor is separate from the urine presence sensor. The temperature sensor may be dedicated to measuring the temperature of urine, in particular to detecting the fertility period.

[0133] Communications and systems

[0134] The urine analysis device comprises a communication module 41. The communication module 41 is wireless. The communication module 41 operates a local area network, such as Bluetooth, Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) or Wi-fi. The local area network allows to preserve the battery 94 of the test assembly 24. Thus, the autonomy of the analysis device 12 is increased.

[0135] Alternatively, the communication module 41 may operate a cellular telecommunication network. The cellular telecommunication network may be, for example, GSM, 3G, 4G, 5G, 4G-LTE. The communication module 41 thus has a longer range.

[0136] Alternatively, the communication module 41 may be operatively connected to a gateway of a cellular telecommunication network. Specifically, the gateway may be a router (e.g., a Wi-fi router connected to a cellular network), a hub (i.e., a device that directly connects to a cellular network), or a user's smartphone. Thus, the urine analysis device 12 may be connected to a cellular network without affecting battery life 94.

[0137] Preferably, the communication module 41 communicates with the user's smartphone 61 using Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) technology and connects to the remote server 98 using Wi-Fi technology.

[0138] The communication module 41 allows the analysis to be triggered via remote control.

[0139] Preferably, the analysis is performed from the user's smartphone 61. The user can start the analysis from an application on the smartphone. The user can control the urine analysis device 12 and can choose when to perform the analysis. The user can also be identified by using the smartphone. The analysis performed is thus customized to the user. The user can also choose which test they want to perform.

[0140] Alternatively, the analysis is started by communicating with a remote device 42 near the toilet. The remote device has a button 55. The user can then press the button to start the analysis. The user can control the urine analysis device and can choose when to perform the analysis.

[0141] The button 55 may be provided with a biometric sensor 57. The button may thus identify that a user has pressed the button. Then, an analysis related to the identified user may be performed by the urine analysis device. Furthermore, the analysis performed may be selected based on the identified user, and the results may be sent to enrich the medical history of the identified user.

[0142] The remote device 42 also includes a display 59. For example, the display may be composed of one or more colored light emitting diodes (LEDs). The display may also include a screen. The display may notify the user. For example, the user may be informed that a button press has been sensed, and / or that the user has been identified, and / or that an analysis is about to be performed.

[0143] Alternatively, the remote device 42 may be a connected bracelet associated with the user. In this case, the user may be automatically detected when the user is near the toilet. The user may also be identified by the connected bracelet. Thus, the analysis may be automatically initiated without any action by the user. It should be noted that the connected bracelet may be a connected watch.

[0144] The communication module 41 is also used to transmit test results. The test results can be one or more of the following: fertility, pregnancy, urinary tract infection, liver problems, kidney failure, uric acid poisoning, dehydration, heart disease and / or diabetes. The results can also be indicators of medication compliance.

[0145] The communication module 41 may send the test results directly to the display 59 or the smartphone 61. The communication module may thus not have a connection to a cellular telecommunications network. The test results may be interpreted locally by the electronic control unit 45 or by a smartphone application. Thus, the operating costs of the urine analysis device 12 are reduced.

[0146] Alternatively, the communication module 41 may send the one or more results to a remote server 98. The remote server 98 may interpret the results. Operating the server reduces the amount of computation required to interpret the test results locally.

[0147] The remote server 98 may also be equipped with storage capabilities. Thus, the remote server may store the results of multiple consecutive analyses.

[0148] The user can view and utilize one or more results received directly from the analysis device 12 or spoken by the server. For example, the user can view and utilize the results from a smartphone application. Alternatively, the user can access the website using a computer.

[0149] The housing 22 may include one or more indicator lights (e.g., light emitting diodes, or LEDs) disposed within the housing opposite the translucent portion of the front of the housing to provide visual feedback to the user regarding the operation of the analytical device 12. Various colors and flashing patterns may be provided to indicate various device states to the user.

[0150] Finally, the user can access the button 192 from the housing 22. The user can access the button 192 to reset the urine analysis device 12. Specifically, the user can access the button 192 when the removable cover 90 is removed.

[0151] Electronic Control Unit

[0152] Preferably, the control unit is constructed from a system on chip. The first Bluetooth low energy chip can control the electronic components of the urine analysis device. The first BLE chip can also support communication with nearby devices. The second Wifi chip can support data exchange with a remote server. Therefore, the second system on chip can be disconnected when the communication with the server is not in use. The power consumption of the control unit is improved and the battery consumption is reduced.

[0153] The control unit can also be divided into different circuit boards. Each circuit board can control different electronic components of the urine analysis device. The main circuit can ensure the cooperation between the different circuit boards. This configuration allows flexibility in the configuration of the electronic control unit and its integration into the housing.

[0154] The electronic control unit 45 is powered by a battery 94 arranged inside the housing 22. The battery 94 is of the lithium-ion type. The capacity of the battery is approximately 1080 mAh. This capacity makes it possible to ensure satisfactory autonomy of the device without compromising the size of the housing.

[0155] The battery 94 includes a charging connector 54. Fig.13 As can be seen in particular, the charging connector 54 can be accessed from outside the housing 22 to allow for recharging of the battery 94. For example, the housing 22 can be placed on a stand to connect the charging connector 54 to a power source. Alternatively, inductive charging is also contemplated.

[0156] Process

[0157] In the following, the two processes for starting a urine analysis and receiving the results are described in more detail. The processes are implemented by the electronic control unit 45 .

[0158] exist Fig.10 In the example shown, the implementation process is initiated by interaction with a user.

[0159] In step E0, the urine analysis device 12 is in an inactive state. In the inactive state, the urine analysis device is waiting to receive a request for analysis.

[0160] Thus, step E1 corresponds to the receipt of an analysis request. The analysis request may come from the user pressing the button 55. The analysis request may also be issued from the smartphone 61. The analysis request may also be automatically executed when the user is near the toilet 10. The display 59 may indicate to the user that his support has been received. The display may also indicate whether the user is recognized when the button is pressed.

[0161] In step E2, the urine analysis device 12 enters the active state. In the active state, the urine analysis device waits to detect urine near the collection port 32. The housing 22 may further be equipped with an LED to alert the user that the urine analysis device is in the active mode.

[0162] If urine flow is not received within the specified time period, the urine analysis device 12 returns to the inactive state of step E0. However, if urine flow is detected, the pump 86 is activated to deliver urine from the collection port 32 to the analysis system 50 (step E3).

[0163] Step E4 involves performing an analysis on the collected urine. The analysis performed depends on the analysis device 50 in the housing 22. The analysis performed may also depend on the user identified by the button 55. The analysis performed may also depend on a selection made by the user.

[0164] Step E5 corresponds to transmitting the results. The results can be transmitted directly to the user. The results can also be sent to the server 98. For example, the user can view and evaluate the results on the smartphone application 61 or on the website. The results can also be sent to a healthcare professional.

[0165] Finally, step E6 is to activate the pump 86 to clear excess urine from the urine analysis device 12. The urine analysis device then returns to the inactive state of step E0.

[0166] Or, in Fig.11 In the example shown, the process begins when urine is detected on the housing 22 .

[0167] In step E100 , the urine analysis device 12 is in an inactive state. Here, the inactive state corresponds to waiting for urine to be detected near the collection port 32 .

[0168] Next, step E101 is to detect the presence of urine near the collection port.

[0169] In step E102, the pump 86 is activated to draw urine from the collection port to the analysis system 50. The display 59 may indicate that the analysis is ready to be performed. Alternatively, the housing 22 with an LED may indicate that the analysis is ready to be performed.

[0170] In step E103 , the urine analysis device 12 waits for receiving an analysis request from the user. The analysis request may originate from the user pressing the button 55 . The analysis request may also be issued from the smartphone 61 .

[0171] If no analysis request is received within a specified time period, the pump 86 is activated to sweep the collected urine from the urine analysis device 12 (step E106 ). The urine analysis device returns to the inactive state of step E100 .

[0172] However, if an analysis request is received, the analysis is performed at step E104. In addition, the display 59 can indicate to the user that his press is received. The display can also indicate whether the user is recognized when pressing the button 55.

[0173] Step E105 corresponds to transmitting the results. The results can be transmitted directly to the user. The results can also be sent to the server 98. For example, the user can view the results on the smartphone application 61 or on the website. The results can also be sent to a healthcare professional.

[0174] Finally, step E106 is to activate the pump 86 to sweep excess urine from the urine analysis device 12. The urine analysis device then returns to the inactive mode of step E100.

Claims

1. A urine analysis device (12) comprising a housing (22) configured to be positioned entirely within a toilet bowl (10), The housing has a front face (25) for directly receiving a stream of urine from a user urinating on the toilet bowl, a rear face (26) opposite the front face, and a collection port (32) disposed on the front face or the rear face, and wherein the housing contains a test assembly (24) configured to perform an analysis on urine collected via the collection port, And among them, The collecting port (32) is located in a recess (37) comprising two transverse grooves (39) extending from an edge (31) of the housing (22) to a central portion (43) of the recess (37), wherein the collecting port (32) is located.

2. The urine analysis device (12) according to claim 1, characterized in that: The housing (22) has no ridge.

3. The urine analysis device (12) according to claim 1, characterized in that: The front face (25) and / or the rear face (26) include undulations that form a path for urine toward the collection port (32).

4. The urine analysis device (12) according to claim 1, characterized in that: The recess (37) extends into the housing (22) by a distance of between 1 cm and 4 cm.

5. The urine analysis device (12) according to claim 1, characterized in that: The central portion (43) has a 3 cm 2 and 8 cm 2 The area between.

6. The urine analysis device (12) according to claim 1, characterized in that: The depth of the transverse groove (39) increases from the edge (31) to the central portion (43).

7. The urine analysis device (12) according to claim 1, characterized in that: The recess (37) has a boundary (40) having an inflection point between at least one transverse groove (39) and the central portion (43).

8. The urine analysis device (12) according to claim 7, characterized in that: The distance between the border (40) of the recess (37) and the edge (31) of the housing (22) increases from the start of the transverse groove (39) towards the central portion (43).

9. The urine analysis device (12) according to claim 1, characterized in that: In the normal use position, the collection port (32) is located near the lower end (36) of the housing (22).

10. The urine analysis device (12) according to claim 1, characterized in that: The housing (22) has a generally round roller shape.

11. The urine analysis device (12) according to claim 1, characterized in that: The shell (22) is made of a hydrophilic material, and / or the shell is treated by a hydrophilic surface treatment.

12. The urine analysis device (12) according to claim 1, characterized in that The diameter of the housing (22) is between 50 mm and 150 mm.

13. The urine analysis device (12) according to claim 1, characterized in that: The test assembly (24) includes one or more of the following: a plurality of test strips, a microfluidic chip, a field effect transistor, a conductivity measuring device, a pH measuring device, a spectroscopic measuring device, an electrochemical measuring device.

14. The urine analysis device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The front and rear faces are connected by a curved edge.

15. The urine analysis device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The recess is formed on the rear surface.

Images