Toilet sensor

Abstract

The sensor may be used in conjunction with a monitoring system. The sensor may include a housing, where the housing includes an upper portion, an outer sidewall extending downwardly from the upper portion, an inner sidewall extending downwardly from the upper portion, and a lower portion joined to the upper portion. The upper and lower portions may be raised. A first film layer having a first conductive region may be disposed adjacent an upper portion of the housing such that the first conductive region faces the upper portion of the housing, and a second film layer having a second conductive region may be disposed adjacent but isolated from the first film layer such that the second conductive region faces the first conductive region. The sensor may further include processing circuitry contained within the housing.

Description

[0001] Priority claim

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 343,293, filed on May 18, 2022, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Background Art

[0003] Patient monitoring systems are commonly used in healthcare and nursing facilities to provide early warning when a patient at risk of falling attempts to get up without assistance. While patient monitoring systems themselves cannot prevent falls, they can notify others (such as nurses or healthcare aides) in advance that a patient is or may be moving away from a sensor so that assistance can be provided. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0004] Figure 1 is an exploded perspective top front view of an example toilet sensor according to the present disclosure;

[0005] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 An exploded perspective bottom rear view of an example toilet sensor;

[0006] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of an upper portion of a housing of a toilet sensor according to the present disclosure;

[0007] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 A top front perspective view of an assembled example of an example toilet sensor;

[0008] Figure 5 is an exploded perspective top front view of an example of a sensor system including a toilet sensor according to the present disclosure;

[0009] Fig. 6A is a front view of a conventional toilet with a toilet seat attached thereto and in a lowered sitting position without any sensors between the toilet seat and the toilet bowl;

[0010] Figure 6B yes Fig. 6A The front view shown, but now with the toilet seat and toilet bowl installed between them. Figure 4 a toilet sensor that does not significantly interfere with the normal positioning of the toilet seat relative to the toilet bowl in the absence of a sensor between the toilet seat and the toilet bowl;

[0011] Fig. 7A yes Fig. 6A Side view shown;

[0012] Figure 7B yes Figure 6B Side view shown;

[0013] Figure 8 is along Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of the assembled toilet sensor taken along line 8-8 in FIG.

[0014] Fig. 9 yes Figure 1 A rear view of an assembled toilet sensor of an example toilet sensor;

[0015] Fig.10 is an exploded schematic diagram of the components of the assembled toilet sensor according to the present disclosure, and it can be seen that Fig. 9 Any leg of a sensor similar to the legs shown;

[0016] Fig.11 is a rear view of a housing of a toilet sensor according to the present disclosure;

[0017] Fig.12 yes Fig.11 A bottom view of the housing is shown; and

[0018] Fig.13 yes Fig.11 A perspective bottom view of the housing is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0019] Patient monitoring systems often form part of safety systems within healthcare and care facility environments. Typically, these patient monitoring systems are used to alert nurses, caregivers, or others to the movement of patients, particularly those who are at risk of falling. While patient monitoring systems themselves do not prevent falls, they can be used to alert and notify others that a patient is moving or about to move away from a sensor without assistance, allowing a nurse or caregiver to proactively provide assistance.

[0020] Typically, a patient monitoring system includes a device that is attached to a pressure-sensitive sensor or pad. The device can be placed in a variety of locations, including but not limited to a bed, chair, or toilet. When the patient leans over the sensor, the device can be triggered to begin monitoring. Then, when the patient moves away from the sensor, the device can activate an alarm or warning unless monitoring is paused or turned off. The alarm can be, for example, an indicator light, an audible tone, playback of a recorded statement back to the sensor, or a message played at a nurse call station.

[0021] One particularly important area for monitoring is the toilet. Understandably, patients desire privacy when using the toilet; however, patients may still require assistance to stand up from the toilet after using the toilet. Therefore, it is desirable to install a patient monitoring system in or as part of the toilet.

[0022] One such type of monitoring system is a corded or wired system. In a wired system, a sensor is placed in the toilet area, typically under a portion of the toilet seat. The sensor has a wire extending from it that can be connected to a monitor or other alarm device. The monitor can be located inside or outside the bathroom. Due to the wired connection between the sensor and the monitor, when the sensor detects movement, the sensor can transmit an electrical signal to the monitor via the wire.

[0023] However, wired systems have several disadvantages. First, the wired system itself includes additional components, such as a power cord, which can present additional cleaning and sanitation issues, especially in environments such as bathrooms. In addition, the addition of a power cord can present additional tripping hazards for caregivers and patients.

[0024] One solution to the problems with wired systems is to make the system wireless. In a wireless system, one or more sensors are placed within the toilet system, again, typically underneath a portion of the toilet seat. These wireless sensors may include a pair of conductive layers separated by some type of non-conductive material, such as foam. An opening may be provided in the non-conductive material so that when the patient sits on the toilet and thereby on the sensor, the two conductive layers are able to contact, thereby completing the circuit. A wireless transmitter may be located within the sensor so that when the conductive layers contact, the wireless transmitter transmits a wireless signal to a remote receiver. When the patient leaves the sensor, the wireless transmitter may transmit a signal to the receiver to alert a nurse or caregiver. An example of this sensor system is discussed in WO 2022 / 241020 of Taidi Products Co., Ltd., the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0025] Although wireless systems can eliminate certain issues that exist with wired systems, existing toilet sensor systems (whether wired or wireless) still have room for improvement. First, the installation of the sensor can be difficult. Precise placement is required to ensure that most patients will trigger at least some portion of the sensor when seated. For example, if the sensor is placed too far back, a patient sitting on the toilet may not engage the sensor when sitting down, and therefore will not trigger the alarm when they try to get up. Similarly, if the sensor is placed too close to the front of the toilet, a patient sitting back may not engage the sensor at all, or may not engage enough to remain consistent and / or reliable.

[0026] Additionally, using a non-conductive isolation material, such as foam or other relatively thin material, may result in a change in the contour of the toilet seat. For example, if the conductive layer is isolated by one inch of foam, installing the sensor will cause the toilet seat to bulge approximately that amount. Then, once the patient sits on the toilet, the foam will compress and the toilet seat will move with it. For patients who are already at risk for falls, this additional instability may be difficult to handle, especially in terms of stability. Additionally, because the sensor does not cover the entire toilet seat area, different parts of the toilet seat may bulge without anything underneath, which may cause the patient to feel unstable when sitting on the toilet.

[0027] Finally, such sensors may not always engage or not engage consistently, creating reliability issues. The sensor may not engage if the patient is sitting in an odd position on the toilet seat, the sensor is not positioned correctly, or the patient is extremely light and therefore does not generate enough force to compress the non-conductive material. If the sensor does not engage correctly, the alarm will not be triggered when the patient attempts to stand up. Therefore, if the sensor does not engage, the patient is either at an increased risk of falling when using the bathroom or is forced to allow a caregiver to accompany them.

[0028] In contrast, the toilet sensor of the present disclosure preferably uses a low-profile design, and preferably has a shell that is substantially (i.e., fully parabolic to basically parabolic, allowing some variation, i.e., plus or minus 20% of the fully parabolic) parabolic in shape, which is easier to install on most toilets in hospitals and care environments. In other aspects, the toilet sensor may also be simply curved instead of parabolic in shape. In some examples, the toilet sensor may be circular. The low-profile design, preferably the portion of the shell positioned between the toilet seat and the toilet bowl, further reduces the extent to which the sensor causes the toilet seat to bulge or tilt from its normal position, providing a more stable and comfortable experience for the user when using the toilet. In addition, the toilet sensor according to the present disclosure can be made of a more sturdy material so that the user does not feel "compression" when sitting down. The toilet sensor according to the present disclosure may include a shell having an upper portion and a lower portion. A pair of membrane layers having a conductive area may be disposed between the upper and lower portions of the shell. The pair of membrane layers may be isolated by a non-conductive spacer material. The housing may further include processing circuitry with a connection or preferably a wireless transmitter or antenna to transmit a signal to an external receiver to alert a caregiver when the patient attempts to rise from the toilet.

[0029] Figure 1 is an example of a toilet sensor 1 according to the present disclosure. The sensor 1 includes a housing 2. The housing 2 may include an upper portion 4. Preferably, the upper portion 4 has a total thickness between about 0.005 inches and 0.3 inches and more preferably between about 0.05 inches and 0.15 inches (e.g., dimensions 5a plus 5b, see Figure 3). Extending downward from the upper portion 4 may be an outer side wall 6 and an inner side wall 8. The outer side wall 6 and the inner side wall 8 may extend downward at a certain angle; Figure 3 Further discussion of this configuration. In addition, for example (not explicitly shown in the figures, but easily understood here), the side walls 6 and 8 can be configured so that the wall 6 and / or 8 does not extend downward along the entire parabolic shape, that is, there can be a notch or even a large gap, wherein a very limited portion or "fingers" of the side walls 6, 8 extend downward from the upper portion.

[0030] The upper portion 4 can be made of polypropylene or another plastic, metal or composite material with semi-rigid to rigid hardness. More specifically, the upper portion 4 can be made of a material having a hardness between about 20 and 100 on the Shore A hardness scale (and even up to about 80 on the Shore D hardness scale), such as when the upper portion 4 is a plastic or elastomeric material, or if such material is made of a material that is not easily measured on the Shore hardness scale, such material has considerable rigidity. More preferably, the hardness of the upper portion can be between about 60 and 100 on the Shore A hardness scale (and, equivalently, between about 0 and 60 on the Shore D hardness scale), and even more preferably between about 80 and 100 on the Shore A hardness scale (and, equivalently, between about 30 and 60 on the Shore D hardness scale). In some examples, the upper portion 4 of the housing 2 can be manufactured using injection molding.

[0031] The housing 2 further includes a lower portion 10. When the housing 2 is fully constructed and the sensor 1 is available for use by the intended user, the lower portion 10 can be connected to the upper portion 4, and is preferably connected to the upper portion 4. Preferably, when the sensor 1 is fully constructed and available for use, it has a low profile. Such a low profile means that the total thickness of the housing is less than about 0.4 inches, and in increasing order of preference is less than about: 0.35 inches, 0.3 inches, 0.25 inches, 0.2 inches or 0.15 inches. Therefore, in conjunction with the thickness of the previously disclosed upper portion, the total thickness of the lower portion is preferably between about 0.005 inches and 0.3 inches, and more preferably between about 0.08 inches and 0.18 inches. The lower portion 10 can be made of rubber, thermoplastic elastomer material or any other suitable medium soft to semi-rigid hardness material. More specifically, the lower portion 10 can be made of a material having a hardness of no more than about 80 on the Shore A hardness scale. Importantly, the material of the lower portion 10 may be less rigid than the material of the upper portion 4, thereby allowing the lower portion 10 to "grip" the toilet bowl 40 when installed, especially compared to the stiffness / hardness and function of the upper portion. For example, more preferably, the hardness of the lower portion 10 may be between about 20 and 70 on the Shore A hardness scale (and only partially comparable on the Shore D hardness scale), and even more preferably between about 40 and 70 on the Shore A hardness scale. In some examples, the lower portion 10 of the housing 2 can be manufactured using injection molding.

[0032] In the relevant aspects of the shell, in addition to or as an alternative to the hardness characteristics, elastomeric characteristics or no elastomeric characteristics can be adopted. For example, it is preferred to provide different elastomeric qualities for the upper and lower parts. That is, the upper part can be non-elastic and the lower part is elastomeric, or the upper part can be elastomeric, as long as its elasticity is less than that of the lower part. On the other hand, the upper and / or lower part can be a combination of non-elastic and elastomeric materials, for example, preferably the part (or all) of the upper part facing the toilet seat is non-elastic and the part (or all) of the lower part facing the toilet bowl is elastomeric, and more preferably the part of the lower part that engages the toilet bowl is elastomeric. In addition, for all the disclosed characteristics of the shell, including the characteristics of the upper and lower parts, these characteristics can be made of multi-material construction (for example, overmolded, co-molded or sequentially linked together), where areas of different materials have different hardness, different friction coefficients and different elastomeric characteristics, rather than being uniformly distributed as a whole or on its surface.

[0033] In another related aspect, the coefficient of friction can be a preferred characteristic of the shell, i.e., most preferably the friction between the lower portion and the toilet bowl. In addition, it is more preferred that the lower portion has a higher coefficient of friction than the upper portion. For example, for each of the friction, hardness, and elastomeric properties, and particularly when there are differences in these properties of the upper portion compared to the lower portion, the benefits that can be obtained are (i) being able to better seal the liquid (e.g., by having a secure fit where the parts meet), and / or (ii) helping to more evenly distribute the force applied by the user to the shell to help squeeze or compress the sensing membrane layers 12, 16 in selected areas, thereby more consistently acting as a closed circuit when sufficient pressure is applied to the shell, and acting as an open circuit when insufficient pressure is applied to the shell. In this way, it helps the processing circuit to correctly transmit information about the user being on the toilet and not on the toilet before, during, and after using the toilet.

[0034] In some examples, the upper portion 4 and / or the lower portion 10 may be convex. That is, the upper portion 4 and / or the lower portion 10 may not be completely horizontal and flat for one or both of its top and bottom surfaces, but may have a curvature relative to a horizontal axis for one or both of its top and bottom surfaces. More preferably, and as Figure 3 and 9 -10, the convex configuration of the upper portion 4 can be that the top surface 5 is convex upward and protrudes away from the lower portion 10. For example, this can be that the portion 5a-5a is uniform in width 7, and the portion 5b-5b is thicker in the middle than at the ends of the width 7. Additionally or alternatively, and as Figure 8-10As shown, more preferably, the convex configuration of the lower portion 10 can be that the bottom surface 11 is convex downward and protrudes away from the upper portion 4. The method of realizing the convex lower portion can be similar to that of the upper portion 4, that is, making similar parts 5a-5a ( Figure 3 ) part (in Fig.10 This is not described in detail, but it can be understood based on the description here) is uniform in width 7 and similar parts 5b-5b ( Figure 3 ) part (in Fig.10 Detailed description is not given here, but it can be understood based on the description here) is thicker in the middle than at both ends of the width 7. Even more preferably, the upper and lower parts each have a raised area, wherein each area protrudes away from the other area (for example, as shown in FIG. Fig. 9 and 10 As best shown, the sensor 1 has surfaces 5 and 11, and most preferably, the apex of each dome is directly opposite the apex of the other dome. Without being limited by theoretical understanding, the inventors have discovered that adding a raised configuration to one or both of portions 4 and 10 can enhance the efficacy and / or compatibility of the sensor 1 with many different toilets, which have various toilet bowl and toilet seat sizes, shapes and configurations, including various toilet seat bumper types and locations. That is, when it is necessary to operate the sensor 1, the raised configuration of one or both of portions 4, 10 can help better ensure contact between the conductive areas of the membrane layers 12 and 16, thereby enhancing sensor efficacy.

[0035] The first membrane layer 12 may be included in the sensor 1. The first membrane layer 12 may include a first conductive region 14. The first membrane layer 12 may be disposed adjacent to the upper portion 4 of the housing 2 such that, when installed, the first conductive region 14 faces the opposite side of the upper portion 4 of the housing 2. In other words, when the first membrane layer 12 is coupled to the housing 2 at its upper portion 4, the conductive region 14 may face away from the upper portion 4.

[0036] A second film layer 16 may also be included in the sensor 1. The second film layer 16 may include a second conductive region 18, similar to the first conductive region 16. When placed in the sensor 1, the second film layer 16 may be disposed adjacent to the first film layer 12 such that the second conductive region 18 faces the first conductive region 16. However, it is important that the second conductive region 18 is selectively isolated from the first conductive region 14. See Fig.10 , which is a cross-sectional view of the housing 2 , showing the first membrane layer 12 and the second membrane layer 16 .

[0037] The first film layer 12 and the second film layer 16 can both be made of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) or similar materials. The thickness of the PET film can be very small, about 0.005 inches. The two layers can be formed separately and then joined together before being connected to the housing, formed separately and then joined together only when connected to the housing, or formed together more like a single structure but with at least electrical isolation between the two layers, and then the structure is connected to the housing. When connected together, the film layers can be connected in a variety of ways. For example, they can be connected mainly around their periphery, and when the sensor is subjected to sufficient force from a user sitting on the toilet seat (the sensor is positioned between the toilet seat and the toilet bowl), the most sensitive area located inside the periphery is used to detect electrical contact between the two layers. Conductive areas 14, 18 can be included in the PET and can be manufactured using conductive ink (e.g., usually applied to the film by screen printing), vacuum deposition (e.g., usually used for aluminum or applying another type of metal) or any other suitable technology to create conductive areas on the PET, and preferably selected conductive areas. In some examples, one of the conductive regions 14, 18 may include multiple different conductive paths between a processing circuit (e.g., a microchip, microcontroller, and / or printed circuit board (discussed further herein)) and multiple sensing regions. Thus, the conductive material and / or path may be connected directly or indirectly to the processing circuit, and may be electrically connected here through other parts or materials of the sensor 1. For example, a smaller membrane assembly may be used, in which two wires connect the conductive ink to the circuit board. The conductive regions 14, 18 may include a set of patterned conductive materials, such that when the first conductive region 14 contacts the second conductive region 18, the set of patterned conductive materials bridges multiple conductive paths, thereby completing the circuit and transmitting electrical signals. In addition, the processing circuit may use ordinary wires or other currently available means to provide electrical connections between components. One means is a "flex circuit", which is similar to a traditional printed circuit board, but uses a thin and flexible polymer film as a substrate instead of a traditional fiber-reinforced plastic board. Another example is an integrated component that can be used as both a "sensing membrane" and a flexible substrate for other electronic components (microcontrollers, batteries, etc.), with conductive traces used for sensing and for connecting downstream components.

[0038] However, the examples are not limited thereto, and other patterns and methods of conductive paths and conductive materials may be used. Importantly, the conductive areas 14, 18 preferably cover a majority of the first film layer 12 and the second film layer 16, respectively. That is, the conductive areas 14, 18 of the toilet sensor 1 are large enough, and preferably as large as possible within the coverage of the sensor 1, which helps ensure that the patient can activate the sensor regardless of where or how the patient sits on the toilet, regardless of the size, shape, and configuration of the toilet bowl / seat / seat buffer. In addition, if desired, the left and right areas of the housing 4 on both sides of the vertex can be configured as parallel circuits so that pressing either side provides a conductive path. Alternatively, the two sides can be configured as a series circuit, which means that both sides need to be pressed to complete the conductive path, which will send an alarm signal if the user's weight is sufficiently reduced on only one side.

[0039] In addition, the second conductive area 18 can be isolated from the first conductive area 14 by a non-conductive spacer material pattern on the first film layer 12 and / or the second film layer 16, or formed by an additional layer directly or indirectly connected to the first layer 12 and / or the second layer 16 or deposited on the additional layer. The non-conductive spacer material can be any type of non-conductive material deposited on the film and / or connected to the conductive material or associated with the conductive material, and can be used to selectively physically and / or electrically isolate the first film layer 12 and the second film layer 16. When the toilet sensor 1 is not used by a person, the non-conductive spacer material can be used to prevent the first conductive area 14 and the second conductive area 18 from completing the circuit. However, when the toilet sensor 1 is used by a person, the non-conductive spacer material can be sufficiently mechanically and / or electrically overcome to enable the first conductive area 14 to contact the second conductive area 18, thereby allowing the circuit to be completed, as described above. For example, a relatively flexible shell material and / or its required hardness helps to achieve this, even if a force is applied exactly where the spacer material is present, thereby essentially "bulging" into the opening. Further, it is preferred to have a pattern with sufficient gaps (size, number, spacing) to be effectively used. In addition, preferably, by selecting appropriate thicknesses and mechanical properties (particularly hardness) of the membrane layer and its spacing materials, the sensor will make and break contact at clinically acceptable force levels. The force threshold must be high enough (e.g., at least 5 pounds of force, and may need to be as high as 10 pounds or slightly higher) so that the weight of an unoccupied toilet seat is not inadvertently registered as a user sitting on it. Conversely, the force threshold must be low enough so that a lighter user activates the sensor, even considering that part of their weight is supported by the rear hinge of the toilet seat and the floor (if the feet and lower legs are resting on the floor).

[0040] The toilet sensor 1 may further include a processing circuit 20. As used herein, a processing circuit refers to a feature that provides an electronic interface between one or more areas of the sensor that are affected by the patient's weight and downstream components. The processing circuit 20 may optionally include a microcontroller. As used herein, a microcontroller refers to an integrated circuit that includes a microprocessor as well as memory and associated circuitry. The memory, microprocessor, and various circuits control some or all functions of the electronic device or system. The processing circuit 20 may include a battery and an antenna, and may be coupled to the first membrane layer 12 and / or the second membrane layer 16. As Figure 1 As shown, the processing circuit 20 may be contained within the housing 2. More specifically, the upper portion 4 of the housing 2 may include a housing 22 for receiving and holding the processing circuit 20 within the housing 2. In a preferred embodiment, the antenna is wireless, but the example is not limited thereto, and the printed circuit board (whether or not having an antenna) may be wired to the receiver, for example, via a wired connection.

[0041] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 Another view of an example toilet sensor 1. More specifically, Figure 2 is an inverted view of the toilet sensor 1. Figure 2 As can be seen in the figure, the upper portion 4 of the housing 2 includes a housing 22 capable of receiving and holding the processing circuit 20. The housing 22 can "clip" the processing circuit 20 to hold it in place, but the example is not limited to this.

[0042] from Figure 1 and Figure 2 It can be seen from the two that the toilet sensor 1 and many of its components can be substantially parabolic in shape. The size and angle of the parabola can be set so that the toilet sensor 1 can be adapted to most existing toilet seats. The maximum outer diameter 13 ( Fig.11 ) may be between about 10 inches and about 15 inches, and more preferably between about 12 inches and 14 inches, as measured from the open end of the housing 2. The length 15 ( Fig.12 ) can further be between about 5 inches and about 9 inches, and more preferably between about 6 inches and 8 inches, as measured from the center of the housing 2 to a line drawn between the open ends of the housing 2. In addition, the width 7 of the toilet sensor 1 (e.g., Figure 3 ) may be between about 1 inch and 3 inches, more preferably between about 1.5 inches and 2.5 inches, as measured between the outer sidewall 6 and the inner sidewall 8. However, the example is not limited thereto and other dimensions may be used.

[0043] Importantly, the dimensions of the toilet sensor 1 can contribute to the ease of use of the toilet sensor 1. Due to its substantially parabolic shape, the installation of the toilet sensor 1 can be intuitive and have a small margin for error during installation. Due to its shape, the toilet sensor 1 can only be installed in one way: with the front of the housing 2 facing the front of the toilet and the rear legs extending rearwardly along the toilet bowl. The outer side wall 6 can be placed along the outside of the toilet bowl, while the inner side wall 8 can be placed along the inside of the toilet bowl. Further in this regard, and also related to other descriptions elsewhere herein, the housing width 7 (and preferably also the side walls) is approximately as wide as the toilet seat with the sensor 1 underneath when in use. As such, preferably, the sensor 1 profile is "hidden" or located within the vertical profile of the toilet seat so as not to interfere with or be easily noticed by a user sitting on the toilet seat with the sensor underneath.

[0044] Figure 3 4 is a view of the upper portion 4 of the housing 2 of the toilet sensor according to the present disclosure. Figure 3 As shown, the upper portion 4 of the housing 2 includes an outer sidewall 6 and an inner sidewall 8. The outer sidewall 6 extends downward from the upper portion 4 of the housing 2 at an angle 24, while the inner sidewall 8 extends downward from the upper portion 4 of the housing 2 at an angle 26. The angles 24 and 26 can be equal, but the example is not limited thereto, and the angle 24 can be different from the angle 26. In a preferred embodiment, the angles 24 and 26 can be between 12 degrees and 18 degrees; however, other angles can be used. Additionally or alternatively, preferably, the vertical dimension of the sidewalls (e.g., height 3) is adopted so that the sidewalls 6, 8 have sufficient height to further help hold the sensor 1 firmly on the toilet bowl, are not too high to cause fitting problems with the toilet seat, and are not too long to cause dirt because it extends further down from the top edge of the toilet bowl into the toilet. As an example, early designs did not fit some brand name toilets, and this problem was overcome by increasing the space between the sidewalls, changing the sidewall angles, and reducing the sidewall height. Thus, the inventors have surprisingly discovered the following exemplary dimensions for the sidewalls: width 7 as described above; height 3 of approximately 0.2 to 0.8 inches, and more preferably approximately 0.4 to 0.6 inches; and angles 24, 26 of approximately 5 to 50 degrees, and more preferably approximately 10 to 30 degrees.

[0045] Figure 4 is an example of a toilet sensor 1 according to the present disclosure. More specifically, Figure 4 The assembled toilet sensor 1 is shown, i.e. Figure 1 and Figure 2 The various components shown in FIG. 1 are in their usable configurations. The toilet sensor 1 includes a housing 2. The housing 2 includes an upper portion 4. Although Figure 4Although not easily visible in the figure, the housing 2 further includes a lower portion, which is joined to the upper portion 4 when in the assembled configuration. The upper portion 4 of the housing 2 includes an outer side wall 6 and an inner side wall 8. Together with the lower portion, the upper portion 4 of the housing 2 completely contains the sensing components, such as the first membrane layer 12, the second membrane layer 16, and the processing circuit 20, all of which are combined Figure 1 and Figure 2 Described. Figure 4 As shown, the upper portion 4 of the housing 4 further includes a housing 22. As previously described in conjunction with Figure 1 and Figure 2 As described, housing 22 may contain processing circuitry; this is also Figure 8 Shown in.

[0046] Figure 5 1 is an example sensor system 100 according to the present disclosure. The sensor system 100 may include a sensor device 1. The sensor device 1 may include a housing 2. The housing 2 may include an upper portion 4, an outer sidewall 6, and an inner sidewall 8, wherein the outer sidewall 6 and the inner sidewall 8 extend downward from the upper portion 8 of the housing 2.

[0047] The plurality of spacers may be located anywhere along the length of the side walls 6, 8, and for example, at one end of the housing, such as Figure 11-13 As used herein, a spacer refers to a part used to create or maintain a desired amount of space between two objects or elsewhere. For purposes of the present disclosure, ends 9 at the ends of the respective side walls 6, 8 that are opposite to each other can be used to create a desired gap between the side walls 6, 8 and the toilet bowl with the sensor 1 on top, the gap having a length of the side wall spaced from the ends 9. More specifically, the upper portion 4 of the housing 2 can have a first width along most of the length of the side walls 6, 8 (e.g., as Figure 3 As shown, it can be width 7 plus the distance from the outermost edge of the side walls 6, 8 to each gap where 7 ends), while the end 9 can have a second width that is smaller than the first width (for example, again using Figure 3 , and width 7 is regarded as the total distance from the outermost edge of the side walls 6, 8 to the end 9 thereof). That is, the end 9 of the upper portion 4 of the housing 2 can reduce the width of the U-shaped channel formed thereby, so that the end 9 has a second width that is smaller than the first width. Fig.11As particularly shown, the end 9 of the outer side wall 6 can be flared inwardly at its end, while the end 9 of the inner side wall 8 can be flared outwardly at its end, thereby creating a second width that is less than the first width. For example, such spacing dimensions can preferably be a width between the side walls 6, 8 that decreases from about 0.04 inches to 1 inch, more preferably from about 0.075 inches to 0.75 inches, more preferably from about 0.1 inches to 0.5 inches, and even more preferably from about 0.125 inches to 0.4 inches. For example, each side wall 6, 8 can be 0.15 inches per side, for a total of 0.3 inches narrower.

[0048] In addition, such a narrower second width can be located at two or more locations along the length of one or both side walls 6 and 8, i.e., the wavy sidewall or depression or spacing member is attached to at least one of the side walls 6, 8 and located between the side walls 6, 8. Without being limited by theoretical understanding, the inventors have found that selectively placing the spacers for the side walls 6, 8 better helps to continuously position the housing on the toilet bowl during use, for example, preferably at least in the area of ​​one to three inches from each end 9, because this is often where the toilet seat bumper usually contacts the toilet bowl. In addition, in this way, the housing can be configured to position the outer edge of the membrane layer in a non-critical position, so that the active area of ​​the membrane layer is more continuously positioned between the toilet seat and the toilet bowl, where the user's force (i.e., the user's weight) is applied during toileting. Even more preferably, the selective placement of the spacers can help prevent the sensor from sliding to a position where the upper portion just rests against the upper edge of the toilet bowl, which may reduce the more reliable sensing of the sensor.

[0049] The housing 2 may further include a lower portion 10. As previously described, the lower portion 10 may be joined to the upper portion 4 such that when the upper portion 4 and the lower portion 10 are joined together, a closed or substantially closed housing is formed. In some examples, the end of the lower portion 10 of the housing 2 may be joined to the upper portion 4 of the housing 2 at an upwardly protruding lip 27 of the upper portion 4 ( Fig.13 ). This may reduce the visibility of the seam at the join location and / or allow the extreme end of portion 10 to be tucked behind lip 27 when the sensor is fully assembled.

[0050] The sensor device 1 may further include a first film layer 12. The first film layer 12 may include a first conductive layer 14. The second film layer 16 may also be present and may include a second conductive layer 18. When installed in the sensor device 1, the first conductive layer 14 and the second conductive layer 18 may be selectively engaged. That is, the first conductive layer 14 and the second conductive layer 18 may be arranged so that they face each other, and when, for example, pressure is applied to the sensor device 1, the first conductive layer 14 and the second conductive layer 18 may contact or otherwise engage.

[0051] A printed circuit board 21 may be included as part of the sensor device 1. As used herein, a printed circuit board refers to a non-conductive material printed or etched with conductive lines. Electrical components may then be connected to the printed circuit board and connected to form a circuit due to the conductive lines. The printed circuit board 21 may include various electrical components, including a battery and an antenna. In a preferred embodiment, the antenna is a wireless antenna; however, the example is not limited thereto, and the printed circuit board (whether or not it has an antenna) may be wired to a receiver, for example, via a wired connection. The printed circuit board 21 may be housed within the housing 2, and more specifically, may be housed within a housing 22 disposed in the upper portion 4 of the housing 2.

[0052] The printed circuit board 21 may be further coupled to the first film layer 12 and the second film layer 16. More specifically, the printed circuit board 21 may be coupled to the first conductive layer 14 and / or the second conductive layer 18, so that when the circuit is completed via the bonding of the first film layer 12 and the second film layer 16, the printed circuit board 21 may also become part of the circuit. Therefore, when the first film layer 12 and the second film layer 16 are bonded, the printed circuit board 21 may notice that there is an electrical connection. If the first film layer 12 and the second film layer 16 are subsequently separated, or the electrical connection is otherwise interrupted, the printed circuit board 21 may detect a change in the electrical connection state.

[0053] The sensor system 100 may further include an external monitor 28. The external monitor 28 may refer to a computer, a nurse call device, an external alarm, or any other suitable device. The external monitor 28 may include a receiver 30. As used herein, a receiver refers to an electronic device that receives a transmission and converts it into an electrical signal or other usable signal. The receiver 30 can be paired or coupled with an antenna included on the printed circuit board 21 so that the receiver 30 can receive a signal from the antenna. In a preferred embodiment, the receiver 30 is a wireless receiver and receives a wireless signal from the antenna, but the example is not limited thereto, and the receiver can be connected to the toilet sensor 1 by a wire.

[0054] More specifically, when the printed circuit board 21 detects a change in the electrical connection state, the receiver 30 can receive a signal from the antenna. When the first film layer 12 and the second film layer 16 are engaged and then disengaged, the printed circuit board 21 can detect the change in the electrical connection state. This detection of the change in the electrical connection state can cause the printed circuit board 21 to instruct the antenna to transmit a signal to the receiver 30. More specifically, the signal transmitted to the receiver 30 can be a signal that the electrical connection state has changed. After receiving the signal, the receiver 30 can transmit the signal to the monitor 28, and can cause the monitor 28 to issue an alarm or otherwise remind an external user that the electrical connection state has changed.

[0055] In some examples, the sensor may be a self-positioning sensor for use with a toilet bowl. The toilet seat 42 may be hingedly attached to the toilet bowl 40. The sensor (which may be similar to the one previously described) may be attached to the toilet bowl 40. Figure 1-5 Description or Fig. 6A The sensor shown in / 6B to 13) may include a housing. In some examples, the housing may be substantially parabolic in shape and may include a vertex, wherein the housing legs extend and protrude away from the vertex. The housing may have a substantially flat horizontal surface, wherein a raised area of ​​the housing protrudes above the substantially flat horizontal surface. More specifically, the raised area of ​​the housing may be located adjacent to the vertex. The housing may further have an inner surface, and the sensor layer may be adjacent to the inner surface. The sensor layer may be similar to the combination Figure 1-4 The first film layer and / or the second film layer discussed above may be used, but the examples are not limited thereto. The processing circuit may be positioned within the raised region of the housing such that the processing circuit is positioned adjacent to the apex of the housing. The processing circuit may be similar to a combination of Figure 1-4 The processing circuit may further include a battery and an antenna, and may be further coupled to the sensor layer.

[0056] In use, the self-positioning sensor can be positioned between the toilet bowl and the toilet seat, and preferably, can be positioned more easily and / or more reliably than before. That is, without being limited by theoretical understanding, the inventors have specifically discovered how to design the sensor 1 to be self-positioning based on and in accordance with one or more of the following factors in increasing order of priority: side walls, side wall heights, side wall angles, width between side walls, a substantially parabolic shape of the shell, a low profile of the shell, and a raised area of ​​the shell that protrudes above a substantially flat horizontal surface adjacent to the vertex. More specifically, therefore, the self-positioning sensor can be positioned so that the vertex of the shell is positioned adjacent to the front edge of the toilet bowl. In some examples, the toilet seat can include, for example, Fig. 6A and 6B The front end gap shown is such that when the self-positioning sensor is positioned on the toilet bowl, the apex is adjacent the front edge of the toilet bowl and the raised area of ​​the shell is positioned in the front end gap of the toilet seat. However, even if there is no toilet seat front end gap in the toilet seat, the low profile of the sensor can be used with a fully enclosed wrap-around toilet seat (i.e., like a donut), but may be more easily noticed by the user because the raised area of ​​the upper shell may cause the front end of the toilet seat to extend upward, especially compared to how the toilet seat is positioned on the toilet bowl without the sensor between the toilet seat and the toilet bowl. At the same time, the shell legs can be positioned on opposite sides of the toilet bowl and can protrude away from the apex. In this manner, more preferably, the self-positioning sensor covers a sufficient portion of the area between the toilet seat and the toilet bowl for sensing purposes and enables the toilet seat to be lowered onto it, for example as Figure 6B and7B shown.

[0057] The embodiments within the various scopes are now further discussed as follows:

[0058] A. A sensor for use in conjunction with a monitoring system. The sensor includes a housing. The housing includes: a raised upper portion; an outer sidewall extending downward from the raised upper portion; an inner sidewall extending downward from the raised upper portion; and a raised lower portion that can be coupled to the raised upper portion. A first film layer having a first conductive region, the first film layer being disposed adjacent to the raised upper portion of the housing so that the first conductive region faces an opposite side of the raised upper portion of the housing. A second film layer having a second conductive region, wherein: the second film layer is disposed adjacent to the first film layer so that the second conductive region faces the first conductive region; and the second conductive layer is selectively isolated from the first conductive layer. Processing circuitry contained within the housing.

[0059] B. A sensor for use with a toilet seat. The sensor includes a housing. The housing includes an upper portion. The upper portion includes an outer sidewall and an inner sidewall extending downwardly at a certain angle. The upper portion includes an outer shell, and the upper portion is made of a first material having a first characteristic. A lower portion, wherein the lower portion is connected to the upper portion. The lower portion is made of a second material, the second material also having the first characteristic but having a different amount of the first characteristic than the upper portion. A first film layer having a first conductive layer, wherein the first film layer is disposed adjacent to the upper portion of the housing so that the first conductive area faces the opposite side of the upper portion of the housing. A second film layer having a second conductive layer, wherein the second film layer is disposed adjacent to the first film layer so that the second conductive area faces the first conductive area and the second conductive layer is isolated from the first conductive layer. The first conductive layer and the second conductive layer are selectively engageable. A printed circuit board contained within the housing of the housing.

[0060] C. A sensor as in any of the preceding sensor embodiments, wherein the raised upper portion of the housing further comprises a housing for a processing circuit.

[0061] D. The sensor of any of the preceding sensor embodiments, wherein the housing is substantially parabolic in shape.

[0062] E. A sensor as in any of the preceding sensor embodiments, wherein at least one of the outer sidewall and the inner sidewall extends downwardly at an angle from a raised upper portion of the housing.

[0063] F. The sensor of any of the preceding sensor embodiments, wherein the second conductive layer is isolated from the first conductive layer by a pattern of non-conductive spacer material.

[0064] G. The sensor of any of the preceding sensor embodiments, wherein the non-conductive spacer material is deposited on the first membrane layer.

[0065] H. The sensor of any of the preceding sensor embodiments, wherein the non-conductive spacer material is deposited on the second membrane layer.

[0066] I. The sensor of any of the preceding sensor embodiments, wherein the first conductive region and the second conductive region extend across a majority of the first membrane layer and the second membrane layer, respectively.

[0067] J. A sensor of any of the aforementioned sensor embodiments, wherein: the first conductive layer has a plurality of different conductive paths between a printed circuit board and a plurality of sensing areas; and the second conductive layer has a set of patterned conductive materials such that the second conductive areas bridge the plurality of different conductive paths contained on the first conductive layer.

[0068] K. The sensor of any of the preceding sensor embodiments, wherein the housing, the first membrane layer, and the second membrane layer are substantially parabolic in shape.

[0069] L. A sensor of any of the aforementioned sensor embodiments, wherein: the printed circuit board or processing circuit further comprises a wireless antenna and a battery; and the processing circuit or printed circuit board is coupled to the first membrane layer and the second membrane layer.

[0070] M. The sensor of any of the preceding sensor embodiments, wherein the first characteristic is one from the group of hardness, elastomer, and coefficient of friction.

[0071] N. The sensor of any of the preceding sensor embodiments, wherein the first characteristic is hardness and the upper portion has a higher hardness than the lower portion.

[0072] O. The sensor of any of the preceding sensor embodiments, wherein the first characteristic is a coefficient of friction and the upper portion has a lower coefficient of friction than the lower portion.

[0073] P. A sensor as in any of the preceding sensor embodiments, wherein the first characteristic is an elastic body and the elasticity of the upper portion is less than the elasticity of the lower portion.

[0074] Q. A sensor system comprising a sensor device for use with a toilet seat. The sensor comprises a housing. A first membrane layer having a first conductive layer. A second membrane layer having a second conductive layer, wherein the first conductive layer and the second conductive layer are selectively engageable. A printed circuit board contained within the housing. A receiver contained within an external monitor, wherein the receiver communicates with the printed circuit board.

[0075] R. The sensor system of any of the system embodiments described above, wherein a printed circuit board is coupled to the first membrane layer and the second membrane layer such that when the first conductive layer and the second conductive layer are engaged and then disengaged, the printed circuit board detects a change in the electrical connection state.

[0076] S. The sensor system of any of the foregoing system embodiments, wherein the printed circuit board further comprises a wireless antenna and a battery, and the receiver contained in the external monitor is a wireless receiver that communicates with the printed circuit board via the wireless antenna.

[0077] T. The sensor system of any of the preceding system embodiments, wherein detection of a change in electrical connection status by the printed circuit board or the processing circuit is communicated via a receiver.

[0078] U. The sensor system of any of the preceding system embodiments, wherein detection of a change in electrical connection status by the printed circuit board or the processing circuit is further communicated through a wireless receiver via a wireless antenna.

[0079] V. The sensor system of any of the aforementioned system embodiments, wherein the transmitted signal is a signal that warns that the electrical connection state has changed.

[0080] W. A sensor system of any of the system embodiments described above, wherein the shell further includes: an upper part, wherein the upper part further includes a housing for a printed circuit board; an outer side wall extending downward from the upper part of the shell; an inner side wall extending downward from the upper part of the shell; a lower part connected to the upper part; and a plurality of spacers positioned along the length of the shell.

[0081] X. The sensor system of any of the system embodiments described above, wherein the first membrane layer and the second membrane layer are arranged inside the shell and between the upper part and the lower part.

[0082] Y. A sensor system of any of the system embodiments described above, wherein: the upper portion and the lower portion have a first width; the plurality of spacers have a second width; and the plurality of spacers are arranged along the length of the shell so that a portion of the shell has a third width, wherein the third width is the first width minus the second width.

[0083] In the above detailed description of the present disclosure, reference is made to the accompanying drawings which form a part of the present disclosure, in which examples of how to practice the present disclosure are shown by way of illustration. The description of these examples is sufficiently detailed to enable one of ordinary skill in the art to practice the examples of the present disclosure, and it should be understood that other examples may be used and process, electrical and / or structural changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0084] The elements shown in the various figures herein may be added, exchanged and / or eliminated to provide multiple additional examples of the present disclosure. In addition, the ratios and relative proportions of the elements provided in the figures are intended to illustrate examples of the present disclosure and should not be considered restrictive. In addition, as used herein, "multiple elements and / or features" may refer to one or more such elements and / or features.

[0085] The present invention includes the disclosed descriptions, examples, embodiments, and drawings; however, the present invention is not limited to these descriptions, examples, embodiments, or drawings. As briefly described above, the reader should assume that, unless expressly stated to the contrary, the features of one disclosed embodiment are also applicable to all other disclosed embodiments. Unless expressly stated to the contrary, the numerical parameters listed in this application are approximate values, which may vary depending on the desired performance sought to be obtained by a person of ordinary skill in the art without undue experimentation using the teachings disclosed in this application. Modifications and other embodiments will be obvious to those of ordinary skill in the art of applicable machine tools, and all such modifications and other embodiments are intended and deemed to be within the scope of this disclosure.

Claims

1. A sensor for use in conjunction with a monitoring system, the sensor comprising: A housing, wherein the housing comprises: convex upper part; an outer side wall extending downward from the upper portion of the protrusion; an inner side wall extending downward from the raised upper portion; and a raised lower portion, which can be coupled to the raised upper portion; a first film layer having a first conductive region, wherein the first film layer is disposed adjacent to the raised upper portion of the housing so that the first conductive region faces an opposite side of the raised upper portion of the housing; A second film layer having a second conductive region, wherein: The second film layer is disposed adjacent to the first film layer so that the second conductive region faces the first conductive region; and The second conductive layer is selectively isolated from the first conductive layer; and The housing contains processing circuitry.

2. The device according to claim 1, wherein The raised upper portion of the housing further includes a housing for the processing circuit.

3. The device according to claim 1, wherein: The housing is substantially parabolic in shape.

4. The device according to claim 1, wherein: At least one of the outer sidewall and the inner sidewall extends downwardly at a certain angle from the raised upper portion of the housing.

5. The device according to claim 1, wherein: The second conductive layer is isolated from the first conductive layer by a non-conductive spacer material pattern.

6. The device according to claim 5, wherein: The non-conductive spacer material is deposited on the first film layer.

7. The device according to claim 5, wherein: The non-conductive spacer material is deposited on the second film layer.

8. The device according to claim 1, wherein: The processing circuit further includes a battery and a wireless antenna.

9. A sensor system comprising: A sensor device for use with a toilet seat, the sensor comprising: case; A first film layer having a first conductive layer; a second film layer having a second conductive layer, wherein the first conductive layer and the second conductive layer are selectively bondable; and processing circuitry contained within the housing; and A receiver is included in the external monitor, wherein the receiver is in communication with the processing circuit.

10. The system according to claim 9, wherein: The processing circuit includes a printed circuit board, and the printed circuit board is coupled to the first membrane layer and the second membrane layer such that the printed circuit board is affected by a change in electrical connection state when the first conductive layer and the second conductive layer are engaged and then disengaged.

11. The system according to claim 10, wherein: Detection of a change in the electrical connection state by the printed circuit board is communicated via the receiver.

12. The system according to claim 11, wherein: The printed circuit board transmits a signal to the receiver to indicate that the electrical connection status has changed.

13. The system according to claim 10, wherein: The printed circuit board further includes a wireless antenna and a battery, and the receiver contained within the external monitor is a wireless receiver that communicates with the printed circuit board via the wireless antenna.

14. The system according to claim 13, wherein: Detection of a change in the electrical connection state by the printed circuit board is communicated through the wireless receiver via the wireless antenna.

15. The system of claim 14, wherein: The signal transmitted by the wireless antenna is a signal to remind that the electrical connection status has changed.

16. The system of claim 9, wherein: The housing further comprises: an upper portion, wherein the upper portion further comprises a housing for a printed circuit board; an outer side wall extending downwardly from the upper portion of the housing; an inner side wall extending downwardly from the upper portion of the housing; a lower portion connected to the upper portion; A plurality of spacers are positioned along the length of the housing.

17. The system of claim 16, wherein: The first film layer and the second film layer are arranged in the housing and between the upper part and the lower part.

18. The system of claim 16, wherein: The upper portion and the lower portion have a first width; The plurality of spacers have a second width; and The plurality of spacers are arranged along a length of the housing such that a portion of the housing has a third width, wherein the third width is the first width minus the second width.

19. A sensor for use with a toilet seat, the sensor comprising: A housing, wherein the housing comprises: The upper part, wherein: The upper portion includes an outer side wall and an inner side wall extending downward at a certain angle; The upper portion includes a housing; and The upper portion is made of a first material having a first property; and The lower part, wherein: The lower portion is connected to the upper portion; and the lower portion being made of a second material that also has the first property but has a different amount of the first property than the upper portion; a first film layer having a first conductive layer, wherein the first film layer is disposed adjacent to the upper portion of the housing so that a first conductive region faces an opposite side of the upper portion of the housing; A second film layer having a second conductive layer, wherein: The second film layer is disposed adjacent to the first film layer so that the second conductive region faces the first conductive region; The second conductive layer is isolated from the first conductive layer; and The first conductive layer and the second conductive layer are selectively bondable; and The housing contains processing circuitry within the casing.

20. The sensor according to claim 19, wherein The first conductive region and the second conductive region extend across a majority of the first film layer and the second film layer, respectively.

21. The sensor of claim 20, wherein: The first conductive layer has a plurality of different conductive paths between the processing circuit and the plurality of sensing regions; as well as The second conductive layer has a set of patterned conductive materials such that the second conductive region bridges the plurality of different conductive paths included on the first conductive layer.

22. The sensor according to claim 19, wherein The housing, the first membrane layer, and the second membrane layer are substantially parabolic in shape.

23. The sensor according to claim 19, wherein: The housing, the first membrane layer and the second membrane layer are circular in shape.

24. The sensor of claim 19, wherein: The processing circuit further includes a wireless antenna and a battery; and The processing circuit is coupled to the first membrane layer and the second membrane layer.

25. The sensor of claim 19, wherein: The processing circuit further includes a wired connection; and The processing circuit is coupled to the first membrane layer and the second membrane layer.

26. The sensor according to claim 19, wherein The first property is one from the group of hardness, elastomer, and coefficient of friction.

27. The sensor according to claim 26, wherein The first characteristic is hardness and the upper portion has a higher hardness than the lower portion.

28. The sensor according to claim 26, wherein The first property is a coefficient of friction and the upper portion has a lower coefficient of friction than the lower portion.

29. The sensor according to claim 26, wherein: The first property is elastic and the elasticity of the upper portion is less than the elasticity of the lower portion.

30. A self-positioning sensor for use with a toilet bowl to which the toilet seat is hingedly attached, wherein: The self-positioning sensor comprises: A housing having a substantially flat horizontal surface, wherein: The housing is formed into a substantially parabolic shape; The housing includes an apex, wherein housing legs project away from the apex; and The housing has an inner surface and a sensor layer positioned adjacent to the inner surface; a raised region of the housing that projects above the substantially flat horizontal surface adjacent the apex; a processing circuit positioned within the raised region of the housing, wherein the self-positioning sensor is positionable between the toilet bowl and the toilet seat such that (i) the apex of the housing is positioned adjacent a front edge of the toilet bowl, and (ii) housing legs are positioned on opposite sides of the toilet bowl, projecting away from the apex.

31. The self-locating sensor of claim 30, wherein: The toilet seat has a front end gap formed therein; and When the self-locating sensor is positionable between the toilet bowl and the toilet seat, the raised area of ​​the housing is positioned in the front gap.

32. The self-positioning sensor of claim 31, wherein: The processing circuit further includes a battery and a wireless antenna.

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