Sweat sensing device

Abstract

According to an aspect, there is provided an apparatus (100) comprising a sweat sensing component (102) for measuring a parameter related to sweat produced by sweat glands of a subject, a sweat transport channel (104), and a sweat redirection component (106) comprising a responsive substance whose form is configured to change in response to a stimulus, so as to redirect sweat and control an amount of sweat that can be transported to the sweat sensing component (102) via the sweat transport channel (104), wherein the sweat redirection component is positioned at an outlet of the sweat transport channel, such that in a first configuration the form of the responsive substance is such that the sweat redirection component prevents passage of sweat through the outlet and directs passage of the sweat to the sweat sensing component, and in a second configuration the form of the responsive substance is such that the sweat redirection component allows passage of sweat through the outlet.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a component for measuring parameters of sweat produced by the sweat glands of an object, and more particularly to controlling the amount of sweat that can reach said component. Background Technology

[0002] Sweat is a non-obtrusive, readily available biofluid that contains a wealth of physiological and metabolic information. It contains biomarkers indicating a subject's health and well-being, and can be used to monitor dehydration, stress, sleep, child health, and in preoperative monitoring, among other applications.

[0003] The amount of sweat produced by an object can vary depending on a range of factors, including the object's health, whether it is moving, and its perception of its surroundings. If too much sweat is produced and the sensor receives too much sweat, inaccuracies in sweat property measurements (such as the concentration of biomarkers contained within the sweat) will occur. Furthermore, if too much sweat reaches the sensor, a cumulative effect will occur, causing new sweat to mix with old sweat. Too little sweat production will also lead to measurements with a low signal-to-noise ratio, and so on.

[0004] Existing technologies can measure the properties of sweat but cannot solve many known problems, such as those discussed above. Existing sweat sensing devices are often used by individuals who produce a sufficient amount of sweat (e.g., athletes). However, excessive sweat production can lead to bioaccumulation of the sensing components in sweat sensing devices, which can cause damage to these components. This effect is exacerbated when the sensing components are configured to measure relatively low amounts of sweat.

[0005] Therefore, a device is desired that can control the amount of sweat, making it suitable for use within a range of sweat production rates.

[0006] US 2018 / 0020967 discloses a sweat sensing device with excessive sweat flow management.

[0007] WO 2017 / 070640 discloses a device capable of sampling concentration for extended sensing of sweat analyzers.

[0008] EP 3649941 discloses an apparatus, system, and method for estimating the concentration of analytes in sweat released by sweat glands.

[0009] US 2006 / 0287164 discloses a portable flow meter for low-volume applications. Summary of the Invention

[0010] The inventors of this disclosure recognized the need for a sweat sensing device suitable for measuring the sweat properties (e.g., the concentration of sweat components) of a person under normal conditions (e.g., a person at rest or performing normal daily activities) and a person who is producing a large amount of sweat.

[0011] According to a first aspect, an apparatus is provided, comprising a sweat sensing component, a sweat transmission channel, a first sweat redirection component, and a second sweat redirection component. The sweat sensing component is used to measure parameters related to sweat produced by sweat glands of an object. The first sweat redirection component includes a first responsive substance configured to change in response to a stimulus to redirect sweat and control the amount of sweat that can be transmitted to the sweat sensing component via the sweat transmission channel. The second sweat redirection component includes a second responsive substance configured to change in response to a stimulus to redirect sweat and control the amount of sweat that can be transmitted to the sweat sensing component via the sweat transmission channel. The first sweat redirection component is positioned at the outlet of the sweat transmission channel such that the first sweat redirection component is positioned at the outlet of the sweat transmission channel to redirect sweat. In one configuration, the first responsive substance is in the form that the first sweat redirection component prevents the sweat passage through the outlet and directs the sweat passage to the sweat sensing component; and in a second configuration, the first responsive substance is in the form that the first sweat redirection component allows the sweat passage through the outlet, and wherein the second sweat redirection component is positioned at the inlet of the sweat transmission channel to function as a valve, such that in the first configuration, the form of the second responsive substance prevents the sweat passage through the sweat transmission channel to reach the sweat sensing component, and in the second configuration, the form of the second responsive substance allows the sweat passage through the sweat transmission channel to reach the sweat sensing component.

[0012] In some embodiments, the stimulation includes electrical stimulation or fluid stimulation, wherein the electrical stimulation is applied to the first and / or second response substances to cause a change in the form of the first and / or second response substances, respectively, and the fluid stimulation causes a change in the form of the first and / or second response substances upon contact with the first and / or second response substances, respectively. For example, the fluid stimulation may include a liquid, such as sweat or sweat vapor.

[0013] In some embodiments, the stimulation includes electrical stimulation applied to the first and / or second response substance in response to at least one of the following: a parameter value of the sweat measured using the sweat sensing component meets or exceeds a parameter value threshold; and the sweat rate from the sweat gland exceeds a sweat rate threshold.

[0014] In some embodiments, the first responsive substance and / or the second responsive substance may include at least one substance selected from the group consisting of: electroactive polymers; and piezoelectric substances.

[0015] In some embodiments, the apparatus may include a sweat rate sensor for measuring the rate of sweat from the sweat glands.

[0016] In some embodiments, the device may further include a processor configured to apply the electrical stimulation to the first and / or the second response substance.

[0017] In some embodiments, the stimulation includes fluid stimulation, which responds to an amount of sweat that exceeds a threshold amount, resulting in a change in the form of the first and / or second response substances.

[0018] In some embodiments, the first responsive substance and / or the second responsive substance may include a hydrogel.

[0019] In some embodiments, the parameters related to sweat include parameters selected from the group consisting of: the concentration of a substance in the sweat; and the osmotic pressure of the substance in the sweat.

[0020] According to a second specific aspect, a method is provided for controlling a sweat pathway in a device, the device having a sweat sensing component, a sweat transmission channel, a first sweat redirection component including a first responsive substance, and a second sweat redirection component including a second responsive substance. The method includes: receiving data at a processor indicating parameters related to sweat produced by sweat glands of a subject; and applying electrical stimulation to the first and / or second responsive substances based on the received data, wherein applying the electrical signal to the first responsive substance causes a change in the form of the first responsive substance, thereby redirecting sweat and controlling the amount of sweat that can be transmitted to the sweat sensing component via the sweat transmission channel; wherein applying the electrical signal to the second responsive substance causes a change in the form of the second responsive substance, thereby redirecting sweat and controlling the amount of sweat that can be transmitted to the sweat sensing component via the sweat transmission channel. In one configuration, the first sweat redirection component is positioned at the outlet of the sweat transmission channel, such that in a first configuration, the form of the first responsive substance causes the first sweat redirection component to prevent the sweat passage through the outlet and to direct the sweat passage to the first sweat sensing component; and in a second configuration, the form of the responsive substance causes the first sweat redirection component to allow the sweat passage through the outlet. The second sweat redirection component is positioned at the inlet of the sweat transmission channel to function as a valve, such that in the first configuration, the form of the second responsive substance causes the second sweat redirection component to prevent the sweat passage through the sweat transmission channel to reach the sweat sensing component, and in the second configuration, the form of the second responsive substance causes the second sweat redirection component to allow the sweat passage through the sweat transmission channel to reach the sweat sensing component. The method may include a computer-implemented method.

[0021] In some embodiments, applying electrical stimulation to the first and / or the second response substance includes controlling a power source to supply current or voltage to the first and / or the second response substance, respectively.

[0022] According to a third specific aspect, a computer program product is provided comprising a non-transitory computer-readable medium having computer-readable code embodied therein, the computer-readable code being configured to cause, when executed by a suitable computer or processor, the computer or processor to perform the steps of any of the methods disclosed herein.

[0023] According to a fourth specific aspect, a system is provided, including the apparatus disclosed herein and a processor configured to apply electrical stimulation to the first and / or the second response substance.

[0024] These and other aspects will become apparent and clear with reference to the embodiments described below. Attached Figure Description

[0025] Exemplary embodiments will now be described by way of example only with reference to the following figures, in which:

[0026] Figure 1 This is a schematic illustration of an example of a sweat sensing device;

[0027] Figure 2A and 2B This is a schematic illustration of a further example of a sweat sensing device;

[0028] Figure 3A and 3B This is a schematic illustration of a further example of a sweat sensing device;

[0029] Figure 4 A and 4B are illustrative examples of electroactive polymers;

[0030] Figure 5 A and 5B are illustrative examples of further examples of electroactive polymers;

[0031] Figure 6A , 6B 6C and 6D are illustrative examples of electroactive polymers having a substrate segment;

[0032] Figure 7A and 7B This is a schematic illustration of an example of a sweat redirection component that includes hydrogel;

[0033] Figure 8 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of a method for controlling the sweat channels in a control device;

[0034] Figure 9 This is an illustrative example of a processor communicating with a computer-readable medium;

[0035] Figure 10 This is an illustrative example of a system that includes a sweat sensing device and a processor. Detailed Implementation

[0036] Monitoring and analyzing a subject's sweat can provide insights into their health and well-being. For example, analyzing biomarkers contained within sweat (which can be rich in physiological and metabolic information) can reveal information relevant to the subject's health. Biomarkers can include: sodium ions (Na+), chloride ions (Cl+), potassium ions (K+), etc., which can be used to monitor dehydration; lactic acid, which can serve as an early warning sign of inflammation and subsequently detect sepsis; glucose, which can be used to detect diabetes, etc.; and cortisol, which can be used to monitor the subject's sleep (e.g., sleep quality) and / or stress (e.g., stress level). As noted above, a known problem with measuring and analyzing biomarkers in sweat is the inaccuracy of the measurement, or even damage to the sensor when it experiences high sweat levels. A sensor-integrated patch can be used to detect sweat, and the patch can be configured to attach to the subject. Such a patch can be designed to receive / process specific amounts of liquid, taking into account time factors (e.g., device activity and intended duration of use) and dynamic quantities (e.g., sweat flow rate). Microfluidics, waste management, and / or the design and optimization of sensing elements to account for a range of sweat volumes can be challenging.

[0037] The embodiments of the invention described herein utilize the inventors' awareness that the form or structure (e.g., shape) of certain substances, referred to as responsive substances, can be manipulated or modified (passively or actively) to redirect sweat, thereby enabling control of sweat channels. Specifically, the embodiments relate to a device including a sweat-sensing component for measuring parameters related to sweat produced by the sweat glands of an object. The sweat-redirecting component is formed of or includes substances whose form is configured to change in response to a stimulus to redirect sweat and control the amount of sweat that can be delivered to the sweat-sensing component. In some embodiments, the sweat-redirecting component may be referred to as a sweat-limiting component. Advantageously, by controlling the amount of sweat that can reach the sweat-sensing component, the arrangement of the device or apparatus can be used with objects (e.g., humans) having a range of sweat production rates, reducing the chance that the sensitive sensing component will be affected by bioaccumulation (e.g., excessive construction of a biofilm that hinders the effective operation of such a device). The examples disclosed herein can also help address the problem associated with excessive fluid (e.g., sweat) entering the fluid transport system of the device, which can cause delayed measurements upstream (e.g., at the sweat-sensing component).

[0038] Now refer to the attached diagram, Figure 1This is an illustrative description of device 100 (e.g., a sweat sensing device). The device includes a sweat sensing component 102 for measuring parameters related to sweat produced by the sweat glands of an object. For example, the sweat sensing component 102 may include components configured to measure parameters or characteristics of the sweat itself, such as sweat volume (e.g., volume) or sweat rate (e.g., amount of sweat per unit time) or parameters or characteristics of substances within the sweat (e.g., biomarkers). For example, the sweat sensing component 101 may be configured to measure the concentration of a specific substance in the sweat.

[0039] The device 100 also includes a sweat transmission channel 104. The sweat transmission channel 104 is configured to transmit sweat to the sweat sensing element 102, for example, from an inlet or outlet of the device 100. In some embodiments, for example, the sweat transmission channel 104 may be configured to transmit sweat from the surface of an object (e.g., the object's skin) through the device 100 to the sweat sensing element 102. The sweat transmission channel 104 may include one or more channels, pipes, tubes, or conduits suitable for the passage of a fluid such as sweat, and may have any cross-sectional shape (e.g., circular, rectangular, etc.). One or more other components (e.g., electrowetting components) may be provided to assist sweat transmission through the sweat transmission channel 104, but are not discussed further in this disclosure.

[0040] Device 100 also includes a sweat redirection component 106 (which may be referred to as a first sweat redirection component). Sweat redirection component 106 includes (e.g., formed with or containing) a responsive substance whose form is configured to change in response to a stimulus in order to redirect sweat and control the amount of sweat that can be transmitted via the sweat transport channel to the sweat sensing component. As used herein, the term "responsive substance" is intended to refer to a substance capable of responding to an input or stimulus. The response of a substance may include changes in one or more of its structure, form, shape, size, etc. Sweat redirection component 106 is positioned at the outlet of sweat transport channel 104 such that, in a first form or configuration, it can redirect sweat to restrict the pathway of sweat through sweat transport channel 104 to sweat sensing component 102, and in a second form or configuration, it allows the pathway of sweat to reach the sweat sensing component via the sweat transport channel. By redirecting sweat before or within device 100, the amount of sweat that can reach certain areas of the device (e.g., sweat sensing component 102) can be controlled. For example, in certain situations, such as when the amount of sweat exceeds a threshold or when parameters or characteristics of the sweat (e.g., indicators of sweat acidity or baseline pH levels, or concentrations of sweat components) meet specific criteria, the amount of sweat that can be transmitted to the sweat sensing component 102 can be re-limited or restricted (e.g., by directing the sweat away from the sweat sensing component). Stimuli used to cause a change in the form of the responsive substance can include electrical or fluid stimulation, and these stimuli are discussed in more detail below.

[0041] Depending on the position of the sweat redirection component 106 relative to the device 100, the sweat pathway can be redirected at different points within the device or the sweat transport channel 104. The sweat redirection component 106 (which may be referred to as the first sweat redirection component) is configured or arranged at the outlet of the sweat transport channel 104, allowing sweat to enter the device 100 (e.g., within the sweat transport channel 104), but limiting the amount of sweat that reaches the sweat sensing component 102. In such embodiments, the sweat redirection component 106 can be configured to redirect sweat within the device 100 or to direct the sweat pathway away from the sweat sensing component or out of the device.

[0042] The device 100 also includes a second sweat redirection component 107 containing a responsive substance (e.g., a second responsive substance). The second sweat redirection component 107 is configured or positioned to control (e.g., limit or prevent) the amount of sweat entering the device 100, and thus control the amount of sweat reaching the sweat sensing component. For example, the second sweat redirection component 107 can be used as a door or valve to prevent sweat from entering the device 100 or limit the amount of sweat entering the device 100 by redirecting the entering sweat.

[0043] Advantageously, the sweat redirection component 106 and / or the second sweat redirection component 107 can control the amount of sweat encountering the sweat sensing component, enabling the sweat sensing component to operate effectively (e.g., allowing the sweat sensing component to be optimized by helping to ensure that an optimal amount of sweat reaches the sweat sensing component). Various embodiments are described in more detail below.

[0044] Figure 2A and 2B This is an illustrative description of an example of a device 100 according to a specific embodiment. The device 100 includes a sweat sensing component 102 and a sweat transport channel 104 in fluid communication with the sweat sensing component. In this example, the sweat transport channel 104 includes a single straight channel. However, it will be appreciated that in other examples, multiple channels may be provided through which sweat can be transported to the sweat sensing component 102. The device 100 also includes a sweat redirection component 106, which, in this embodiment, is positioned within the device 100. Sweat generated by the sweat glands 202 of the subject travels upward through the sweat duct 204 to reach the surface of the subject's skin 206. The sweat may be received in a sweat receiving area 208 of the device 100 and may be transported along the sweat transport channel 104 to the sweat sensing component 102. A fluid transport mechanism (not shown) may be provided to facilitate the movement of sweat from the surface of the skin 206 across the sweat receiving area 208 and / or along the sweat transport channel 104.

[0045] In this example, the sweat redirection component 106 includes a closure movable between a first configuration (e.g., a closed position) and a second configuration (e.g., an open position). Figure 2A In the first configuration (e.g., closed position), the sweat redirection component 106 is positioned such that sweat is directed via the sweat transport channel 104 toward the sweat sensing component 102, as indicated by arrow A. When the sweat redirection component 106 is in the closed position, sweat is prevented from leaving the device 100 via the outlet or vent 212 by redirecting the sweat away from the outlet or vent 212.

[0046] exist Figure 2BIn this configuration, the sweat redirection component 106 is in a second configuration (e.g., the open position). In this configuration, a volume of sweat can travel from the surface of the skin 206 across the sweat receiving area 208 and through the outlet or vent 212, as indicated by arrow B. In some embodiments, a portion of the sweat entering the device 100 can travel through the outlet 212, while a portion of the sweat travels along the sweat transport channel 104 to the sweat sensing component 102. The pathway from the sweat receiving area 208 to the outlet or vent 212 can be considered part of the sweat transport channel 104, such that the outlet or vent includes the outlet of the sweat transport channel. The structure and / or arrangement of the components in the device 100 can determine the portion of sweat that can travel along the sweat transport channel 104 to the sweat sensing component 102 and the portion of sweat that exits the device via the outlet 212. For example, the sweat transport channel 104 may have a relatively small cross-sectional area compared to the cross-sectional area associated with the discharge port 102, which in some examples can result in a relatively large amount of sweat flowing through the discharge port compared to the amount flowing through the sweat transport channel. However, in any case, when the sweat redirection component 106 is in the open position, the amount of sweat reaching the sweat sensing component 102 is less than when the sweat redirection component is in the closed position (e.g., when the sweat redirection component 106 is in the open position). Figure 2A The amount of sweat at the time shown. Therefore, in Figure 2B In the illustrated arrangement, the responsive material of the sweat redirection component 106 is in a form that allows sweat to pass through an outlet (e.g., discharge port 212). The effect of the sweat redirection component 106 being in the open position is that sweat, sweat vapor, or other fluids can be discharged or expelled from the device 100, rather than overwhelming the sweat sensing component 102 (e.g., preventing bioaccumulation of the sweat sensing component 102). Thus, according to some embodiments, for example... Figure 2A and 2B As shown, the sweat redirection component 106 can be positioned in the sweat transport channel 104 (e.g., at or near the outlet of the sweat transport channel 104) such that in the first configuration (e.g., as shown in the diagram), ... Figure 2A In the closed position shown, the form of the responsive substance causes the sweat redirection component to prevent the sweat passage through the outlet and through the discharge port 212, and directs the sweat passage to the sweat sensing component 102; and in the second configuration (e.g., as shown) Figure 2B In the open position shown, the form of the responsive substance causes the sweat redirection component to allow the sweat to pass through the outlet and through the discharge port 212.

[0047] The sweat redirection component 106 is positioned at the outlet of the sweat transport channel 104. This position (i.e., the location of the sweat redirection component 106) includes a location where the sweat redirection component can be situated between the outlet (e.g., discharge port 212) and the sweat sensing component 102. The advantage of positioning the sweat redirection component between the outlet and the sweat sensing component is that the sweat redirection component can be configured (e.g., see...) Figure 2B The configuration allows a volume of sweat (e.g., a defined volume of sweat) to pass over (e.g., continue through a sweat transport channel toward an outlet) the sweat sensing component and exit (e.g., be expelled) the sweat sensing device 100. In this configuration (e.g., as... Figure 2B In the configuration shown, the sweat redirection component can be configured to not stop sweat from reaching the sweat sensing component (e.g., allowing a defined amount of sweat to travel to the sweat sensing component 102), while simultaneously expelling any excess sweat from the sweat sensing device 100. In this manner, excess sweat can be expelled from the sweat sensing device, thereby preventing bioaccumulation of the sweat sensing component 102, while the defined amount of sweat can still be allowed to travel to the sweat sensing component for measuring sweat properties. A further advantage of locating the sweat redirection component 106 between the outlet and the sweat sensing component 102 is that the amount of sweat allowed to travel downstream of the sweat redirection component to any other component of the sweat sensing device 100 can be controlled.

[0048] Figure 3A and Figure 3B An alternative embodiment is shown, wherein the device 100 includes both a sweat redirection component 106 (not shown) and a second sweat redirection component 107. The second sweat redirection component 107 functions as a closure or valve to prevent or allow sweat to move into the device 100 and / or the sweat transport channel 104, rather than as... Figure 2A and 2B It is a closure that functions as an opening or outlet, as shown in the diagram, such as the sweat redirection component 106 (e.g., the first sweat redirection component).

[0049] Figure 3AThis is an illustrative illustration of an example of a device 100 including a sweat sensing component 102, a sweat transmission channel 104, and a second sweat redirection component 107. The second sweat redirection component 107 also includes (e.g., formed with or contained) a responsive substance (e.g., a second responsive substance) configured to change in response to a stimulus in order to redirect sweat and control the amount of sweat that can be transmitted to the sweat sensing component via the sweat transmission channel. In this example, the second sweat redirection component 107 is positioned at the entrance of the sweat transmission channel 104 or at the entrance or opening of the device 100, through which sweat can reach the sweat transmission channel and / or the sweat sensing component 102. Figure 3A In the arrangement shown, the second sweat redirection component 107 is in a first configuration (e.g., closed position) that blocks the entrance, thereby preventing sweat from moving into the sweat transport channel 104.

[0050] exist Figure 3B In this configuration, the second sweat redirection component 107 is in a second configuration (e.g., the open position). In this configuration, the form of the second responsive substance (e.g., the responsive substance associated with the second redirection component) has been changed such that the second sweat redirection component 107 allows sweat to travel via the sweat transport channel 104 to the sweat sensing component 102 or to the sweat transport channel itself, in the direction of arrow C.

[0051] Therefore, such as Figure 3A and 3B As shown, the second sweat redirection component 107 is positioned at the inlet of the sweat transmission channel 104 to function as a valve, such that in the first configuration (e.g., as shown) Figure 3A In the closed position shown, the form of the second responsive substance causes the second sweat redirection component to prevent the sweat pathway from reaching the sweat sensing component 102 via the sweat transport channel; and, in the second configuration (e.g., as shown in the closed position), the second responsive substance is in the form of a second sweat redirection component to prevent the sweat pathway from reaching the sweat sensing component 102 via the sweat transport channel; and, in the second configuration (e.g., as shown in the closed position), the second responsive substance is in the form of a second responsive substance ..., the second responsive substance is in the form of a second responsive substance to prevent the sweat pathway from reaching the sweat sensing component 102 via the sweat transport channel); Figure 3B In the open position shown, the form of the second responsive substance allows the second sweat redirection component to allow the sweat to travel through the sweat transport channel to the sweat sensing component.

[0052] Figures 2 and 3 illustrate only two examples of many possible arrangements of the sweat redirection component 106 and / or the second sweat redirection component 107, which can be implemented to allow and limit the pathway of sweat to the sweat sensing component 102 of the device 100 by suitably redirecting sweat. As noted above, the sweat redirection component 106 includes a responsive substance whose form can change in response to a stimulus. Similarly, the second sweat redirection component 107 includes a responsive substance (e.g., a second responsive substance) whose form can change in response to a stimulus. In some embodiments, the stimulus that causes a change in the form of the responsive substance and / or the second responsive substance can include electrical stimulation or fluid stimulation. In some embodiments, the stimulus can include an electrical stimulus applied to the responsive substance to cause a change in the form of the responsive substance. This can be referred to as an active stimulus because the stimulus is actively applied to the responsive substance by a controller. In other examples, the stimulus can include a fluid stimulus that causes a change in the form of the responsive substance when the fluid stimulus comes into contact with the responsive substance. This can be referred to as a passive stimulus because the stimulus automatically causes a response in the responsive substance upon contact with it. The embodiments discussed herein (such as those discussed above with reference to Figures 2 and 3) may combine one or more of electrical stimulation and fluid stimulation.

[0053] A responsive substance that responds to electrical stimulation may have a form that changes automatically when a voltage or current is applied to or through it. Several substances whose form changes when a voltage or current is applied are known. According to some examples, a responsive substance may include at least one substance selected from the group consisting of electroactive polymers and piezoelectric substances.

[0054] Electroactive polymers (EAPs) are examples of types of responsive substances that respond to electrical stimulation. Figure 4 and Figure 5 This is a schematic illustration of a partial example of a sweat redirection component 106 (or equivalently, a second sweat redirection component 107) comprising an electroactive polymer. Figure 4 In the example shown in A, the electroactive polymer 402 is sandwiched between a pair of flexible electrodes 404a and 404b. In this example, when a voltage is applied between electrodes 404a and 404b, the electroactive polymer 402 moves along the... Figure 4 The arrow in B indicates expansion in the direction indicated. Therefore, if such a sweat redirection component 106 or a second sweat redirection component 107 is positioned at the entrance or exit of the through channel (e.g., sweat transport channel 104) or the through channel or device 100, access through the sweat redirection component and / or the second sweat redirection component can be controlled by applying or removing a voltage across electrodes 404a and 404b. For example, when a voltage is applied between electrodes 404a and 404b, the electroactive polymer 402 will expand, thereby covering or blocking the channel, entrance, or exit.

[0055] In such Figure 5 In the example shown, the structure is formed by mounting the electroactive polymer 402 and electrodes 404a, 404b onto a carrier layer 502. When a voltage is applied between the electrodes 404a, 404b, the carrier layer 502, along with the electroactive polymer 402 and the electrodes, bends or flexes along the path shown. Figure 5 Arrow B indicates the direction. In this manner, applying a voltage between electrodes 404a and 404b will cause the structure to bend or flex, thus blocking a channel, inlet, or outlet, or will cause the structure to bend or flex, thus creating an opening through the channel, inlet, or outlet. Electroactive polymers are associated with several advantages, including their ability to operate with relatively low power consumption, their ability to have small shape factors, their flexibility, their noiselessness or generation of relatively low levels of noise, and their relatively fast response times (e.g., they rapidly change shape upon application of electrical stimulation).

[0056] As mentioned above, electrical stimulation can be provided to the response substance in the form of current and / or voltage applied to the sweat redirection component 106 (e.g., applied to an electrode associated with the response substance) and / or the second sweat redirection component 107 (e.g., applied to an electrode associated with the second response substance). The current and / or voltage can be supplied by a power source (e.g., a battery or mains power supply), which can be part of the device 100 or located externally to the device. The applied current or voltage can be controlled by a controller that is part of the device 100 or can communicate with one or more components of the device, including the power source.

[0057] Electroactive polymers can include field-driven materials (e.g., electrostrictive polymers including dielectric elastomers, PVDF-based relaxation polymers, and liquid crystal elastomers (LCEs)) or ion-driven materials (e.g., conjugated polymers, carbon nanotube (CNT)-polymer composites, and ion-polymer metal composites (IPMCs)). Field-driven electroactive polymers can be actuated by an electric field via direct electromechanical coupling, while the actuation mechanism for ion-driven electroactive polymers can involve ion diffusion and / or electrochemical redox. The electric field in diffusion-driven ion-driven polymers can be defined as an electric bilayer and thus can be independent of the thickness of the actuator itself. Such ion-polymer actuators can exhibit little hysteresis and low sustaining current (e.g., less than the actuation current). In other embodiments, the responsive material can include a piezoelectric material that can function in a similar manner; a voltage or current applied to the piezoelectric material can cause changes in the structure or form of the material and any carrier layer or material attached to it (e.g., expansion or bending) to block or allow access to a channel, inlet, or outlet.

[0058] Applying a current or voltage to the response substance (and equivalently, the second response substance) can be based on measurements made by a sensor, and in some embodiments, such a sensor can be part of device 100. In some embodiments, electrical stimulation can be applied to the response substance in response to a parameter value of sweat measured using sweat sensing element 102 (e.g., a biosensor) meeting or exceeding a parameter value threshold. In other words, a feedback loop can be employed such that electrical stimulation is applied to the response substance based on the measurement results of the sweat sensing element. For example, the sweat sensing element can be configured to measure parameters such as the concentration or osmotic pressure of substances in sweat (e.g., sodium ions, potassium ions, lactic acid, etc.), and if the concentration or osmotic pressure of the substance meets or exceeds a defined threshold, a current or voltage can be applied to the response substance to cause a change in its form. Thus, sweat-related parameters (i.e., parameters measured by sweat sensing element 102) can include parameters selected from the group consisting of: the concentration of the substance in sweat; and the osmotic pressure of the substance in sweat. In this manner, if it is determined that the sweat sensing component 102 is receiving sweat containing too much of a particular substance (e.g., a substance that would damage the sweat sensing component), an electric current or voltage can be applied to the responsive substance to cause the sweat redirection component 106 to expand or bend (or otherwise change its shape) to at least partially block the channel or inlet, redirect the sweat and control the amount of sweat that can reach the sweat sensing component, or at least partially unblock the outlet so that the sweat can be discharged from the device 100 without reaching the sweat sensing component.

[0059] In some embodiments, electrical stimulation can be applied to a response substance and / or a second response substance in response to a parameter value of sweat measured using a sweat sensing component 102 (e.g., a biosensor) meeting or exceeding a parameter value threshold. In this manner, if it is determined that the sweat sensing component 102 is receiving sweat containing too much of a particular substance (e.g., a substance that may damage the sweat sensing component), a current or voltage can be applied to the response substance and / or the second response substance to cause the sweat redirection component 106 and / or the second sweat redirection component to expand or bend (or otherwise change their form) respectively to at least partially block the channel or inlet, redirect the sweat and control the amount of sweat reaching the sweat sensing component, or at least partially unblock the outlet, allowing sweat to be discharged from the device 100 without reaching the sweat sensing component. Advantageously, by redirecting the sweat through both the sweat redirection component 106 and the second sweat redirection component, the amount of sweat reaching the sweat sensing component can be more precisely controlled. As a result, the likelihood of bioaccumulation at the sweat sensing component is further reduced.

[0060] In other embodiments, electrical stimulation can be applied to the response substance and / or the second response substance in response to the sweat rate from the sweat glands exceeding a sweat rate threshold. In some embodiments, electrical stimulation can be applied to the response substance and / or the second response substance in response to a combination of the concentration or osmotic pressure of a substance in the sweat and the sweat rate exceeding a threshold of the combination. The sweat rate can be measured using the sweat sensing component 102 itself or using discrete components capable of measuring the sweat rate (e.g., a sweat rate sensor or flow rate sensor). Such a sweat rate sensor or flow rate sensor can be part of the device 100 or can include discrete components communicating with a processor that controls the application of current or voltage to the response substance and / or the second response substance. Thus, the device 100 may also include a sweat rate sensor for measuring the sweat rate from the sweat glands. In some examples, an electrocoupler skin response sensor can be used to determine the sweat rate. In some embodiments, the device 100 may also include a processor configured to apply electrical stimulation to the response substance and / or the second response substance. The processor may also be configured to receive data from the sweat rate sensor indicating the measured sweat rate. As mentioned above, the processor and / or sweat rate sensor may alternatively include discrete components.

[0061] As discussed in more detail below, in some embodiments, the responsive substance and / or the second responsive substance can automatically respond to the presence of a liquid such as sweat, or to the presence of a liquid with specific parameters or properties, such as a liquid containing a minimum concentration or permeability of a specific component (e.g., ions) or a liquid with a specific pH level. In this way, sweat uptake can be linked to sweat physiology. Thus, the sweat redirection component 106 and / or the second sweat redirection component 107 dynamically and adaptively redirect sweat from the object in response to sweat properties that can change over time.

[0062] A responsive substance that responds to a fluid stimulus may have a form that changes automatically when it comes into contact with a specific fluid, such as a liquid (e.g., sweat). In some embodiments, the stimulus may include, for example, a fluid stimulus that causes a change in the form of the responsive substance and / or the second responsive substance in response to an amount of sweat exceeding a threshold amount. In some embodiments, the responsive substance and / or the second responsive substance may include a hydrogel. A hydrogel is an example of a responsive or reactive substance whose physical properties (e.g., volume) change due to changes in the chemical properties of the environment in which the hydrogel is located (e.g., pH, temperature, humidity, ionic strength, concentration of a particular drug or chemical, etc.). Depending on the balance between polymer-water Gibbs energies, the hydrogel may change its physical properties (e.g., swell, shrink, or bend), which may be associated with the elastic nature of the hydrogel polymer network. Another scheme for inducing a specific volume response is known as molecular imprinting. Hydrogels may be used, for example, in embodiments where a relatively small amount of sweat (e.g., a low sweat rate) is generated.

[0063] Figures 6A to 6D This is a schematic illustration of a further example of a sweat redirection component 106 and / or a second sweat redirection component 107. In this example, the sweat redirection component 106 and / or the second sweat redirection component 107 includes an electroactive polymer 600 coupled to or attached to a plurality of substrate segments 602 at a coupling or attachment location 604. Figure 6A and Figure 6C An electroactive polymer 600 in an unactuated state is shown, wherein no stimulation (e.g., electrical stimulation) is applied. Figure 6B and 6D An electroactive polymer 600 in an actuated state is shown, wherein a stimulus (e.g., electrical stimulation) is applied. When a stimulus is applied to the electroactive polymer 600, the electroactive polymer changes form (e.g., stretches, changes curvature, etc.). As the electroactive polymer 600 changes form in response to the stimulus, the base segment 602 is also caused to move. In this example, as the electroactive polymer 600 moves along the axis formed by the stimulus... Figure 6A and 6D The expansion in the direction of the arrow causes the base segments 602 to separate from each other, creating a gap or opening 606 between adjacent base segments through which fluids such as sweat can flow. Figure 6C and Figure 6D A channel 608 is shown located between the layers of the electroactive polymer 600 and the substrate segment 602. Thus, when the electroactive polymer 600 is in a non-actuated state (e.g., in…), Figure 6C When the sweat is in an activated state (e.g., in the middle), it can flow through channel 608 toward sweat transmission channel 104 and / or sweat sensing component 102. However, when the electroactive polymer 600 is in an activated state (e.g., in the middle), sweat can flow through channel 608 toward sweat transmission channel 104 and / or sweat sensing component 102. Figure 6D When sweat exits through the channel 608 via the opening 606, the amount of sweat reaching the sweat sensing component 102 is reduced.

[0064] Figure 7 is a schematic illustration of an example of a sweat redirection component 106 and / or a second sweat redirection component 107 comprising a hydrogel that changes form (e.g., shape) in response to encountering a fluid (e.g., sweat, water, etc.). In this example, the sweat redirection component 106 and / or the second sweat redirection component 107 includes a non-absorbent layer (e.g., a polymer layer) 702 coupled or attached to a layer 704 of the hydrogel material. Figure 7A In this process, the hydrogel material 704 is dry or not in contact with a sufficient amount of liquid necessary to cause a change in the form of the hydrogel material, and both the hydrogel material and the non-absorbent layer 702 are in a relatively straight or flat (e.g., uncurved) form. Figure 7B In this process, a portion 706 of the hydrogel material 704 has come into contact with a liquid (e.g., sweat), causing this portion of the hydrogel material to change shape by contracting or bending upwards. Consequently, both the hydrogel material 704 and the non-absorbent layer 702 are flexed. In use, such a sweat redirection component 106 is positioned at the outlet of the sweat transport channel 104. When the hydrogel material 704 is relatively dry, or has not yet encountered or absorbed a sufficient amount of sweat, the sweat redirection component 106 can block the outlet, thereby preventing sweat from escaping from the device 100 and guiding it toward the sweat sensing component 102, as in... Figure 2A In the example shown, if the amount of sweat encountering the hydrogel material 704 increases to a sufficient level, the hydrogel material, and therefore the sweat redirection component 106, can be caused to bend, thereby opening the opening and allowing the sweat to exit the device 100 via the outlet, as in... Figure 2B In the example shown, it is advantageous that excess sweat produced by the object, which would cause bioaccumulation in the sensitive sensing element, can be expelled from the device 100 before reaching the sweat sensing element 102. Alternatively, if the amount of sweat produced by the object is relatively low, a higher portion (if not all) of the sweat produced can be directed to the sweat sensing element 102 of the device 100.

[0065] In another example, a sweat redirection component 107, including hydrogel 704, is positioned at the entrance of device 100 or sweat transport channel 104, in conjunction with... Figure 3A and 3B The arrangement shown is similar. The sweat redirection component 107 can be positioned such that when mounted or attached to an object, the hydrogel material 704 of the sweat redirection component 107 contacts the object's skin. In such an example, if the object produces a low amount of sweat, the hydrogel material 704 can remain flat (e.g., in…). Figure 7A In the configuration shown, if a large amount of sweat is generated, the hydrogel material can absorb enough sweat to cause the sweat redirection component 107 to bend to at least partially block the entrance, thereby reducing the amount of sweat that can enter the device 100 and reach the sweat sensing component 102. When the amount of sweat generated by the object decreases to an acceptable level, the hydrogel material 704 can return to its flat configuration. Figure 7A This allows more sweat to enter the device 100 and reach the sweat sensing component 102.

[0066] A further advantage of using the responsive substance in the sweat redirection component 106 and / or the second sweat redirection component 107 is that the sweat redirection component 106 and / or the second sweat redirection component 107 can be more compact compared to conventional mechanical valves. Therefore, the device 100 can have a relatively small form factor, which is more comfortable and convenient for the wearer compared to using mechanical valves to stop sweat from entering the device.

[0067] Because sweat is redirected away from the sweat sensing component 102 when needed, most components of the device 100 do not need to absorb excessive sweat, and therefore, the device of this disclosure does not become saturated with sweat. Thus, once a threshold amount of sweat has been received, the device 100 will stop operating or operate less efficiently. Even in embodiments where a hydrogel is used (e.g., FIG. 7), only a portion of the sweat redirection component 106 and / or the second sweat redirection component 107 (e.g., hydrogel material 704) absorbs sweat. The non-absorbent layer 702 does not absorb sweat and is still used for sweat redirection.

[0068] The embodiment in which the responsive substance responds to fluid stimulation has a further advantage in that no electrical input is required for the operation of the sweat redirection component 106 and / or the second sweat redirection component 107. Therefore, no electrical connection is needed for the sweat redirection component 106 and / or the second sweat redirection component 107, which means that the device 100 is more energy efficient and less complex in construction compared to devices using electrical connections.

[0069] According to a second aspect of this disclosure, a method is provided. Figure 8This is a flowchart of an example of method 800. Method 800 may include a computer-implemented method for controlling a pathway of sweat in a device (e.g., device 100). The device has a sweat sensing component 102, a sweat transmission channel 104, and a sweat redirection component 106 including a responsive substance. In step 802, method 800 includes receiving data at a processor indicating parameters related to sweat produced by the sweat glands of an object. In step 804, method 800 includes applying electrical stimulation to the responsive substance in response to the received data. In some embodiments, applying electrical stimulation to the responsive substance causes a change in the form of the responsive substance, thereby redirecting sweat and controlling the amount of sweat that can be transmitted to the sweat sensing component 102 via the sweat transmission channel 104. In other embodiments, applying electrical stimulation to the responsive substance may cause a change in the form of the responsive substance, thereby allowing the amount of sweat to be transmitted to the sweat sensing component 102 via the sweat transmission channel 104. A sweat redirection component 106 is disposed at the outlet of the sweat transport channel, such that in a first configuration, the responsive substance is in the form of a sweat redirection component that prevents the sweat passage through the outlet and directs the sweat passage to the sweat sensing component; and in a second configuration, the responsive substance is in the form of a sweat redirection component that allows the sweat passage through the outlet. Data indicating sweat-related parameters may include, for example, sweat rate, concentration or osmotic pressure of substances in the sweat, sweat volume, etc. The data may be received from a sensor, such as the sweat sensing component 102 discussed above. In some embodiments, applying electrical stimulation to the responsive substance may include controlling a power supply to provide current or voltage to the responsive substance. For example, if it is determined that the sweat rate exceeds a defined threshold, the processor may control the power supply to supply current or voltage to the responsive substance so that the sweat redirection component moves into a position that restricts the movement of sweat toward the sweat sensing component 102.

[0070] According to a third aspect of this disclosure, a computer program product is provided. Figure 9 This is an illustrative illustration of an example of a processor 902 communicating with a computer-readable medium 904. According to various embodiments, a computer program product includes a non-transitory computer-readable medium 904 having computer-readable code embodied therein, the computer-readable code being configured to cause, when executed by a suitable computer or processor 902, the computer or processor to perform the steps of the method 800 discussed herein.

[0071] According to a fourth aspect of this disclosure, a system is provided. Although in some embodiments the apparatus 100 may include a processor configured to perform method 800, in other embodiments the processor may be a discrete component. Figure 10This is an illustrative example of system 1000. System 1000 includes device 100 and a processor (e.g., processor 902) configured to apply electrical stimulation to a responsive substance. Processor 902 may communicate with components of the device (e.g., sweat sensing component 102) via wired or wireless communication protocols. In some embodiments, device 100 may itself include a processor configured to communicate with processor 902.

[0072] The embodiments described above provide a mechanism for controlling the amount of sweat reaching the sweat sensing element of the device, enabling the device to be used by a wide range of individuals generating varying amounts of sweat. The device disclosed herein can therefore be considered more versatile than known devices.

[0073] Processor 902 may include one or more processors, processing units, multi-core processors, or modules configured or adapted to control device 100 in a manner described herein. In a particular implementation, processor 902 may include multiple software and / or hardware modules configured to perform or be used to perform individual or multiple steps of the methods described herein.

[0074] As used herein, the term "module" is intended to include hardware components or software components, such as a processor or a component of a processor configured to perform a particular function, and software components such as a dataset of instructions that has a particular function when executed by a processor.

[0075] It will be appreciated that embodiments of the invention are also applicable to computer programs suitable for practicing the invention, particularly computer programs located on or within a carrier. The program may be source code, object code, code between intermediate source and object code, such as partially compiled form, or any other form suitable for implementation according to embodiments of the invention. It will also be appreciated that such programs can have different architectural designs. For example, program code implementing the functionality of the method or system according to the invention may be subdivided into one or more subroutines. Many different ways of distinguishing between these subroutines will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Subroutines may be stored together in an executable file to form a self-contained program. Such an executable file may include computer-executable instructions, such as processor instructions and / or interpreter instructions (e.g., Java interpreter instructions). Optionally, one or more or all of the subroutines may be stored in at least one external library file and statically or dynamically linked to the main program, e.g., at runtime. The main program contains at least one call to at least one subroutine. Subroutines may also include function calls to each other. Embodiments related to computer program products include computer-executable instructions corresponding to each processing level of at least one of the methods illustrated herein. These instructions may be subdivided into subroutines and / or stored in one or more files that may be statically or dynamically linked. Another embodiment related to a computer program product includes computer-executable instructions corresponding to each module of at least one of the systems and / or products illustrated herein. These instructions may be subdivided into subroutines and / or stored in one or more files that may be statically or dynamically linked.

[0076] The carrier of a computer program can be any entity or device capable of carrying the program. For example, the carrier can include a data storage device such as a ROM (e.g., a CD ROM or semiconductor ROM), or a magnetic recording medium such as a hard disk. Furthermore, the carrier can be a transmissible carrier such as an electrical signal or an optical signal, which can be transmitted via cable or optical fiber, or via radio frequency or other means. When the program is embodied in such a signal, the carrier can be replaced by such a cable or other device or means. Optionally, the carrier can be an integrated circuit in which a program is embedded, the integrated circuit being adapted to perform the relevant method or to be used in performing the relevant method.

[0077] Those skilled in the art, upon practicing the principles and techniques described herein, will be able to understand and implement various modifications to the disclosed embodiments through study of the accompanying drawings, this disclosure, and the appended claims. In the claims, the word "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, and the non-limiting words "a" or "an" do not exclude multiple. A single processor or other unit can perform the functions of several items cited in the claims. The only fact is that certain means cited in common, different claims do not indicate that a combination of these means cannot be utilized. Computer programs can be stored or distributed on suitable media, such as optical storage media or solid-state media together with or as part of other hardware, but can also be distributed in other forms, such as via the Internet or other wired or wireless telecommunications systems. Any reference numerals in the claims should not be construed as limiting the scope.

Claims

1. An apparatus (100) comprising: A sweat sensing component (102) is used to measure parameters related to sweat produced by the sweat glands of an object; Sweat transmission channel (104); A first sweat redirection component (106) includes a first responsive substance configured to change in response to a stimulus in order to redirect sweat and control the amount of sweat that can be transmitted to the sweat sensing component via the sweat transmission channel. as well as The second sweat redirection component (107) includes a second responsive substance configured to change in response to a stimulus in order to redirect sweat and control the amount of sweat that can be transmitted to the sweat sensing component via the sweat transport channel. In one configuration, the first sweat redirection component is positioned at the outlet of the sweat transport channel, such that, in a first configuration, the form of the first responsive substance causes the first sweat redirection component to prevent the sweat passage through the outlet and to direct the sweat passage to the sweat sensing component; and in a second configuration, the form of the first responsive substance causes the first sweat redirection component to allow the sweat passage through the outlet, and The second sweat redirection component is positioned at the entrance of the sweat transmission channel to function as a valve, such that in a first configuration, the form of the second responsive substance causes the second sweat redirection component to prevent the sweat passage from reaching the sweat sensing component via the sweat transmission channel; and in a second configuration, the form of the second responsive substance causes the second sweat redirection component to allow the sweat passage from reaching the sweat sensing component via the sweat transmission channel.

2. The apparatus (100) according to claim 1, wherein, The stimulation includes electrical stimulation or fluid stimulation, wherein the electrical stimulation is applied to the first response substance and / or the second response substance to cause a change in the form of the first response substance and / or the second response substance, respectively, and wherein the fluid stimulation causes a change in the form of the first response substance and / or the second response substance, respectively, when in contact with the first response substance and / or the second response substance.

3. The apparatus (100) according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein, The stimulation includes electrical stimulation applied to the first and / or second response substance in response to at least one of the following: The parameter values ​​of the sweat measured using the sweat sensing component meet or exceed the parameter value threshold; and The rate of sweat from the sweat glands exceeds the sweat rate threshold.

4. The apparatus (100) according to claim 3, wherein, The first responsive substance and / or the second responsive substance comprises at least one substance selected from the group consisting of: electroactive polymers; and piezoelectric substances.

5. The apparatus (100) according to claim 3 or claim 4, further comprising: A sweat rate sensor for measuring the sweat rate from the sweat glands.

6. The apparatus (100) according to any one of claims 3 to 5, further comprising: The processor is configured as follows: The electrical stimulation is applied to the first response substance and / or the second response substance.

7. The apparatus (100) according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein, The stimulation includes fluid stimulation, which is a response to an amount of sweat that exceeds a threshold amount in contact with the first and / or the second response substances, resulting in a change in the form of the first and / or the second response substances.

8. The apparatus (100) according to claim 7, wherein, The first responsive substance and / or the second responsive substance comprises a hydrogel.

9. The apparatus (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The parameters related to sweat include those selected from the group consisting of: the concentration of substances in the sweat; and the osmotic pressure of substances in the sweat.

10. A method (800) for controlling a pathway of sweat in a device, the device having a sweat sensing component, a sweat transmission channel, a first sweat redirection component including a first responsive substance, and a second sweat redirection component including a second responsive substance, the method comprising: The processor receives (802) data indicating parameters related to sweat produced by the sweat glands of the object; as well as Based on the received data, (804) electrical stimulation is applied to the first response substance and / or the second response substance; Specifically, applying the electrical stimulation to the first responsive substance alters its form, thereby redirecting it to sweat and controlling the amount of sweat that can be transmitted to the sweat sensing component via the sweat transmission channel. Specifically, applying the electrical stimulation to the second responsive substance alters its form, thereby redirecting it to sweat and controlling the amount of sweat that can be transmitted to the sweat sensing component via the sweat transmission channel. In one configuration, the first sweat redirection component is positioned at the outlet of the sweat transport channel, such that, in a first configuration, the form of the first responsive substance causes the first sweat redirection component to prevent the sweat passage from passing through the outlet and to direct the sweat passage to the sweat sensing component; and in a second configuration, the form of the first responsive substance causes the first sweat redirection component to allow the sweat passage to pass through the outlet, and The second sweat redirection component is positioned at the entrance of the sweat transmission channel to function as a valve, such that in a first configuration, the form of the second responsive substance causes the second sweat redirection component to prevent the sweat passage from reaching the sweat sensing component via the sweat transmission channel; and in a second configuration, the form of the second responsive substance causes the second sweat redirection component to allow the sweat passage from reaching the sweat sensing component via the sweat transmission channel.

11. The method (800) according to claim 10, wherein, Applying electrical stimulation to the first and / or second response substances includes controlling a power source to supply current or voltage to the first and / or second response substances, respectively.

12. A computer program product comprising a non-transitory computer-readable medium (904) having computer-readable code embodied therein, the computer-readable code being configured to cause the computer or processor (902) to perform the method according to claim 10 or claim 11 when executed by a suitable computer or processor.

13. A system (1000), comprising: The apparatus (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 9; as well as Processor (902), which is configured as follows: Electrical stimulation is applied to the first response substance and / or the second response substance.

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