Vehicle medical device interface system

Abstract

A vehicle having a system operably connected to a personal medical device having a sensor and a method of operating the same are provided. The vehicle includes an indicator device having at least one of an audio device or a visual indicator device. A medical device display interface is coupled to communicate with the personal medical device. A controller is operably coupled to the medical device display interface and the indicator device. The controller is operable to receive a first signal from the medical device display interface and activate the indicator device in response to the first signal including data regarding an unwanted condition.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Application No. 17 / 951,467, filed September 23, 2022, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0003] The subject matter disclosed herein relates to vehicle monitoring and control systems, and in particular to vehicle interfaces that cooperate with medical sensors or devices for alerting an operator or controlling a vehicle in the event of an unwanted medical event. Background Art

[0004] Modern vehicles have many systems that assist the vehicle operator in operating the vehicle. In the case of an autonomous vehicle, control of the vehicle is performed by the vehicle itself, with little or no direct action by the operator. For people with serious illnesses or disabilities, the vehicle can be modified to accommodate the vehicle operator's condition. However, these modifications are costly and are typically only performed in certain circumstances.

[0005] For most people with chronic diseases, there are no formal driving restrictions in place, so people with these chronic diseases may inevitably experience undesirable conditions at times while actively operating a vehicle, such as, for example, hypoglycemia, cardiac arrhythmia, hypotension, or other effects of various medical conditions. In many cases, the vehicle operator may already be equipped with a medical device for continuously monitoring the parameters of such conditions. However, due to many logistical reasons, these readings cannot benefit the active vehicle operator. First, although these devices have the ability to provide continuous visual readings, for power considerations, the reading display is usually cleared after being displayed for a few seconds to extend the battery life of the device. Second, even if the medical device display is not cleared, the vehicle operator themselves is usually unable to operationally and practically utilize this data in a timely and continuous manner while actively operating the vehicle.

[0006] Most medical devices are worn on the person's body or on a belt, often worn under one or more layers of clothing and / or outerwear, placed in a purse or other accessory, etc. This means that, as a practical matter, the vehicle operator cannot conveniently see the evolution of the visual readings, which then essentially precludes the lack of proactive response action to situations such as consuming carbohydrates (for diabetics) or taking additional medication to correct the developing symptoms in a timely manner.

[0007] Although continuously monitored medical devices worn on the body continually update their relevant information, the value of this information is also limited if the driver cannot immediately benefit from this information in real time. Currently, without real-time direct vision of the device display while operating the vehicle, this often results in the vehicle operator not becoming aware of abnormal medical conditions until these conditions have developed to the point of physical impairment and / or triggered one or more audible alarms. Even if an audible alarm is generated, people are typically only warned of the existence of one or more emergency conditions without the benefit of knowing exactly which condition generated the warning. Even if the vehicle operator has the display of the medical device turned on and nearby, the physical process of trying to see what is shown on the display while driving is cumbersome at best.

[0008] Recognizing that most wearable medical devices typically blank their display screens until they are manually "woken up", in fact, for a person who is actively operating a vehicle, in order to view the information reading of the device from the medical device screen, several steps need to be taken: First, the device needs to be physically repositioned so that it is in a readable position. Depending on the location of the medical device, it may be necessary to physically remove such a device from a belt holster, etc., or if worn on the wrist, move the arm holding the device to a position in front of the driver, retract the shirt sleeve, coat or other clothing to expose the device, and then activate / wake up the screen display with the action of pressing one or more buttons with the other hand, and then take time to take your eyes off the road to actually view the information. It should be understood that any of these actions will result in undesirable vehicle operation behavior. In addition, additional efforts may be required by further keystrokes, etc. to confirm the alarm and / or take responsive measures, such as pausing insulin delivery or commanding an insulin pump to push additional insulin while operating the vehicle.

[0009] In addition, as mentioned above, although many devices have built-in audible alarms, they are inherently limited in their alarm output volume, so in many typical driving conditions, these alarms are easily masked by clothing, road noise, vehicle operators or passengers listening to vehicle entertainment systems at high volumes, windows or convertible tops open, or a combination of these conditions. In addition, since traffic laws in many areas prohibit the use of any handheld device, most vehicles are now equipped with built-in "hands-free" functions. Ironically, when drivers use hands-free systems to make calls (usually output at high volume levels to overcome environmental noise interference), they may also inadvertently mask medical device alarms, because such hands-free output levels are usually operated at a much higher volume than the volume of medical device alarms. Finally, the onset of many chronic diseases while driving may cause a decrease in alertness and awareness on the part of the driver, which becomes more and more serious as these diseases gradually worsen, resulting in an increased likelihood of undesirable operating events due to decreased vehicle operator ability.

[0010] While existing vehicle control systems are adequate for their intended purposes, improvements are still needed, particularly in providing vehicle medical device interfaces having the features described herein. Summary of the invention

[0011] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a vehicle is provided having a system operably connected to a personal medical device having a sensor. The vehicle includes an indicator device having at least one of an audio device or a visual indicator device. A medical device display interface is coupled to communicate with the personal medical device. A controller is operably coupled to the medical device display interface and the indicator device. The controller is operable to receive a first signal from the medical device display interface, and activate the indicator device in response to the first signal including data about an undesirable condition.

[0012] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described herein, further embodiments of the system may include activation of the indicator device also causing activation of at least one of a sound from the audio device or display of a message on the visual indicator.

[0013] In addition to, or as an alternative to, one or more of the features described herein, further embodiments of the system may include that the controller is further operable to control at least one of a speed or a direction of the vehicle in response to the first signal.

[0014] In addition to, or as an alternative to, one or more of the features described herein, further embodiments of the system may include that the controller is further operable to administer a medicament in response to the first signal.

[0015] In addition to or in lieu of one or more of the features described herein, further embodiments of the system may include that the controller is further operable to receive a second signal in response to an action by a vehicle operator.

[0016] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described herein, further embodiments of the system may include: the action includes at least one of speaking a command, activating an actuator, or touching a graphical user interface on the visual indicator.

[0017] In addition to, or as an alternative to, one or more of the features described herein, further embodiments of the system may include that the controller is further operable to activate the communication circuit when no action is performed for a predetermined amount of time.

[0018] In addition to or instead of one or more of the features described herein, further embodiments of the system may include a controller configured to receive a third signal from the communication circuit and control a direction and speed of the vehicle to move the vehicle to a medical facility.

[0019] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described herein, further embodiments of the system may include the indicator device, medical device display interface, and controller being connected via a controller area network (CAN) bus.

[0020] In addition to or instead of one or more of the features described herein, further embodiments of the system may include: the personal medical device is connected to the medical device display interface via one of a universal serial bus (USB) connector, an on-board diagnostic (OBD) port, or a wireless connection.

[0021] Additionally or alternatively to one or more of the features described herein, further embodiments of the system may include the first signal being a plurality of first signals received in a continuous, periodic, or periodically updated manner.

[0022] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described herein, further embodiments of the system may include the controller being further operable to display data from the plurality of first signals on the visual indicator as each of the first signals is received.

[0023] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described herein, further embodiments of the system may include: the controller is further operable to display the data on the visual indicator when a change in the data from the plurality of first signals exceeds a threshold.

[0024] Additionally or alternatively to one or more of the features described herein, further embodiments of the system may include the indicator device being operably coupled to the vehicle infotainment system.

[0025] In addition to, or as an alternative to, one or more of the features described herein, further embodiments of the system may include that the audio device includes a speaker integrated into the vehicle.

[0026] In addition to, or as an alternative to, one or more of the features described herein, further embodiments of the system may include the visual indicator comprising a display screen integrated into the vehicle dashboard.

[0027] In addition to, or as an alternative to, one or more of the features described herein, further embodiments of the system may include the sensor being positioned on the vehicle operator.

[0028] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described herein, further embodiments of the system may include the sensor comprising a plurality of sensors, at least one of the plurality of sensors being positioned on a person other than an operator of the vehicle.

[0029] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a method of operating a vehicle is provided. The method includes monitoring a medical condition of a vehicle operator using a medical device having a sensor. A first signal is transmitted from the medical device to a medical device display interface, the first signal indicating a medical parameter of the vehicle operator measured by the sensor. A controller monitors the first signal received via the medical device display interface, and activates an indicator device in response to the medical parameter exceeding a threshold, the indicator device being integrated into the vehicle.

[0030] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described herein, further embodiments of the method may include that the step of activating the indicator device includes activating at least one of a sound from an audio device or displaying a message on a visual indicator.

[0031] In addition to or instead of one or more of the features described herein, further embodiments of the method may include: receiving an input signal from the vehicle operator after the indicator device is activated; and administering a medicament using the medical device in response to receiving the input signal.

[0032] Additionally or alternatively to one or more of the features described herein, further embodiments of the method may include that the input signal is received via a microphone within the vehicle.

[0033] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described herein, further embodiments of the method may include activating a communication circuit within the vehicle when no input signal is received from the vehicle operator within a predetermined amount of time after the indicator device is activated.

[0034] In addition to or instead of one or more of the features described herein, further embodiments of the method may include: receiving a second signal from medical personnel via the communication circuit; and controlling the direction and speed of the vehicle to move the vehicle to a medical facility.

[0035] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described herein, further embodiments of the method may include: receiving, at the controller, a location of the vehicle from a vehicle telematics device; and wherein activation of the communication circuit includes transmitting the location of the vehicle.

[0036] In addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the features described herein, further embodiments of the method may include causing the vehicle to perform one of a speed change and a direction change when no input signal is received within a predetermined amount of time after the indicator device is activated.

[0037] Additionally or alternatively to one or more of the features described herein, further embodiments of the method may include performing activation of the indicator device when the rate of change of the medical parameter exceeds the threshold value.

[0038] Additionally or alternatively to one or more of the features described herein, further embodiments of the method may include performing activation of the indicator device when a difference between the parameter at the first time and the second time exceeds a second threshold.

[0039] Additionally or alternatively to one or more of the features described herein, further embodiments of the method may include the first signal being transmitted in a periodic, aperiodic or continuous manner.

[0040] These and other advantages and features will become more apparent from the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0041] The subject matter regarded as the disclosure is particularly pointed out and distinctly claimed in the claims at the conclusion of the specification. The foregoing and other features and advantages of the present disclosure are apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0042] Figure 1shows an exemplary side view of a vehicle having a medical device display interface according to an embodiment;

[0043] Figure 2 Shows Figure 1 An exemplary data flow diagram of a medical device display interface; and

[0044] Figure 3 Shows the operation Figure 1 An exemplary flow chart of a method for a medical device display interface.

[0045] The detailed description explains embodiments of the disclosure, together with advantages and features, by way of example with reference to the drawings. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0046] The present disclosure, the "Vehicle Medical Device Display Interface (VMDDI)" provides an interface and integration between various medical devices, regardless of their location within the vehicle, and delivers audio and visual data to the operator of the vehicle. In some embodiments, by utilizing dedicated stand-alone displays or those display devices already built into the vehicle, this allows not only real-time (or near real-time) continuous medical conditions to be easily presented, but also to be continuously monitored by the vehicle operator in a safe and timely manner. This results in increased alertness to any monitored medical abnormalities before the monitored medical condition deteriorates and may cause the vehicle operator to lose control of the vehicle.

[0047] In one embodiment, in addition to monitoring the vehicle's "regular" mechanical parameters (oil pressure, tire pressure, etc.), VMDDI also allows the driven vehicle itself to assume the role of actively monitoring and responding to the health and condition of its operator, thereby potentially directing the vehicle itself to take medical-related countermeasures for the driver.

[0048] In one embodiment, VMDDI monitors the medical condition of the operator and also allows the vehicle operator to take responsive medical device actions using controls located on the vehicle steering wheel, dashboard, and / or by voice response commands (e.g., using a vehicle voice activated control system). In addition, in other embodiments, if (for example) there is someone in the driver's seat and there is no vehicle movement for a period of time, the vehicle operator does not make any responsive confirmation or take any action, then VMDDI may also allow the vehicle to automatically respond / act. In these embodiments, VMDDIV can automatically and responsively take action, such as, for example, pausing or increasing the infusion of a medicament (i.e., insulin), and reporting the driver's medical condition to emergency personnel or telematics companies, so as to dispatch medical personnel in the event of a collision or determine that the driver has lost consciousness. In addition, in other embodiments, VMDDI can be incorporated into an autonomous vehicle (AV), and in addition to reporting these medical conditions, AV can also drive to a medical institution under the remote command of a medical staff or other personnel, rather than waiting for a response from emergency personnel.

[0049] It should be noted that, for the purpose of clarifying the terms used herein, the term "continuous" monitoring may be used to refer to a series of regular, continuous, sequential periodic readings or signals. In addition, in some embodiments, monitoring may be performed in a continuous, periodic or aperiodic manner to generate multiple signals.

[0050] Recent government regulations (e.g., the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and others) mandating the transition of proprietary protocols for medical devices from proprietary to “open” operating standards now allow for an unprecedented level of medical device link interoperability, enabling not only the transfer of medical data between devices, but also actual operational control between the devices.

[0051] As medical data access capability standards become increasingly open, in some embodiments, this allows the VMDDI to directly access specific medical data from medical sensing devices to allow, for example, access to the driver's blood glucose levels directly from an active blood glucose sensor and / or via an interconnected insulin pump, etc., thereby allowing the VMDDI to monitor "raw" sensor data (directly from the sensor) or data from medical devices that have already collected, "processed" and analyzed such data to allow for more targeted data and / or alerts.

[0052] The operative connection between the medical device and the VMDDI may take several forms through wired or wireless communication media, and within each type of communication medium there may be further paths of multiple implementations. In the case of a "wired" connection, a simple USB to USB cable may be used between the medical device and a USB jack that may already be in the vehicle. This data connection will allow the medical device to output data directly to an interface with the vehicle's USB hub, which is operably connected to the vehicle's controller area network (CAN bus). Other types of wired connections may include connection to an on-board diagnostic (ODB) port.

[0053] In some embodiments, the VMDDI is also operatively equipped with conventional wireless bidirectional capabilities, such as Bluetooth TM 、ZigBee TM Or other protocols. In some embodiments, such a wireless connection may take the form of a dedicated VMDDI wireless adapter that connects to the vehicle's USB or OBD port, or utilizes an existing wireless connection that may already exist in the vehicle and is operably connected to the vehicle's CAN bus.

[0054] This communication connection not only allows real-time medical condition updates from the medical device to take advantage of the vehicle's existing systems and features, such as, for example, the vehicle's audio amplifier and sound system for audible warnings, but also allows the windshield to be used as a display device through a "head-up" display or by using embedded active display elements (such as transparent OLEDs) in a dedicated portion of the windshield, using the vehicle's existing instrument panel display, or by using a separate dedicated "stand-alone" visual display that can present changing medical conditions (whether they are routine or emergency in nature) in real time. Alternatively, controls such as buttons (either separate physical buttons or touch screens) can also be incorporated into the stand-alone display to, for example, confirm information with, for example, a single hand.

[0055] Since an emergency medical condition that requires attention has the highest priority for the vehicle operator, in the event of unwanted medical data, the VMDDI will take precedence over any lower priority audio and / or video data that is being displayed or presented. As an example, during the period of time that an unwanted medical condition or event requires attention for a relevant period of time, the VMDDI will replace information such as entertainment-related materials with the device's medical information output based on priority. In one embodiment, the VMDD method used to communicate medical condition updates may be based on the severity or urgency level of the medical condition. In further embodiments, the intensity level of the method used may be dynamically changed, thereby affecting parameters such as warning sound level, color or brightness of the information communicated, etc.

[0056] In the case of direct operational connection with a medical sensor, appropriate alarm triggering parameters will be defined into the VMDDI along with the required device serial number, user identification information and other information to allow the VMDDI to monitor the specific sensor or device required. Advantageously, in one VMDDI embodiment, the VMDDI can utilize components within the vehicle to acquire sounds, such as, for example, specific alarm sounds, vibration sounds and patterns, audio frequencies, or specific rhythms indicative of specific alarms, even if an operational data communication link is not established between the VMDDI and the medical system within the vehicle. In addition, the system can be configured or "trained" to recognize specific audible features in the acquired sound data, and subsequently allow the VMDDI to trigger a predetermined response (audibly and / or visually) when it is determined that the identified sound has an audible frequency, rhythm, or other audible characteristic.

[0057] In one embodiment, the VMDDI may employ one of four operating display modes to report medical information to the driver. First, the VMDDI may be off, meaning no display or audio alerts are presented. Second, the VMDDI may operate in a continuous mode, meaning a continuous data display is provided to the vehicle operator and dynamically updated in a timely manner. Third, the VMDDI may operate in a mode that monitors defined changes for medical conditions. Fourth, the VMDDI may operate in an alert-only mode. In other embodiments, additional modes may be provided that may use other indicators such as audio warnings and updates (e.g., the system provides an audio message of "hypoglycemia") in addition to the visual display to alert the vehicle operator.

[0058] In a third mode for monitoring changes in a medical condition, data is displayed only during a significant change in the medical condition, for example, if one or more of the monitored medical parameters indicates a high, low, or other undesirable threshold data reading to the VMDDI. In this mode, in addition to any empirical parameter readings that may be displayed, additional information graphics, such as in the form of up, down, or other directional arrows, may be displayed. These arrows may be further modified by displaying different arrow lengths, the number of arrows that appear simultaneously, etc., to further indicate the trend or rate of change of the condition, as well as combining the graphics with different display colors (e.g., "red" for rapidly changing conditions), and causing the displayed information to "flash" to further define the urgency of the medical condition that requires immediate attention, so as to better attract the driver's attention when an emergency medical situation occurs.

[0059] In the fourth mode, the VMDDI operates to indicate an alarm condition. In this mode, visual and audible alarms are indicated, which indicate an emergency medical condition, such as an abnormal heart rate condition. Where appropriate, such "overall" information can be displayed alternately with other information modes.

[0060] As discussed herein, a two-way connection between a VMDDI, a medical device, a vehicle instrument panel (e.g., an infotainment system), and / or a vehicle interactive voice command may be utilized to awaken, confirm, or allow action to be taken by the medical device (such as pausing insulin delivery) in response to input or commands from a vehicle operator.

[0061] If a medical condition meets preset criteria, such as detecting a heart rhythm indicative of a heart attack, VMDDI will notify the telematics system and / or other onboard systems installed in the vehicle of the medical event via the CAN bus in a manner similar to the automatic collision warning function provided in prior art vehicles. In the case of VMDDI, in addition to the telematics system reporting the vehicle's location, medical information (such as, for example, low / high "blood sugar" of the driver, or an abnormal heart rhythm) can also be transmitted to the telematics operator for use and forwarding to arriving medical emergency personnel.

[0062] In one embodiment, in the event that the VMDDI senses a medical condition that is clearly an undesirable situation, such as one that could result in an immediate impairment of the driver's ability to control the vehicle (i.e., the driver is losing consciousness), in a vehicle equipped with a driver assistance system (as well as an autonomous vehicle), the system may selectively reduce speed and / or change the direction of the vehicle to bring the vehicle to a desired location (e.g., the shoulder of the road). For example, the driver assistance system may also slow and then stop the vehicle, activate the emergency flashers, unlock the doors, or a combination of the above. Such actions may also be communicated to the operator of the telematics device along with the vehicle's stop position.

[0063] In embodiments where the vehicle is equipped with advanced driver assistance features but less than fully automated driving capabilities, such driver assistance systems may continually check to ensure that the driver is paying adequate attention to road conditions (e.g., actively checking surrounding road conditions and the location of other vehicles) before shutting down the assistance system due to non-compliance. In some embodiments where there is a serious medical impairment while operating under the driver assistance system, the driver's attention is required to monitor and respond to their evolving medical condition, which may result in exceeding the preset "driver attention" grace period or time threshold of the assistance system when the assistance system is most needed. In such embodiments, the VMDDI may indicate to the vehicle via the CAN bus that an undesirable medical condition needs to be addressed, which will allow the driver assistance function to provide an extended amount of active assistance time before shutting down the driver assistance system under an active medical alert.

[0064] As medical authorities continue to approve the use of wearable medical devices for younger and younger patients, it should be understood that the VMDDI has the ability to monitor and display to the vehicle operator the medical parameters of others other than the vehicle operator himself. For various VMDDI embodiments, passengers such as infants, children, or adults can sit in the back seat and wear (or implant) a medical device that is also operatively connected to the VMDDI so that the vehicle operator has a safe, continuous, real-time enhanced understanding of the medical status of the medically monitored occupants in the vehicle. This is an improvement over existing methods, especially in the case of passengers sitting in the rear seating area who are continuously monitored rather than only benefiting from a "snapshot" medical confirmation, in which the vehicle operator must stop the vehicle and manually check the medical device on one or more passengers. It should also be understood that the VMDDI is capable of monitoring multiple vehicle occupants at the same time, as long as each person wishes to be monitored and registers their device with the VMDDI.

[0065] See now Figure 1 , an embodiment of a vehicle 100 is shown. The vehicle 100 may be, for example, a car having a plurality of wheels 102 that allow the vehicle 100 to roll under energy provided, for example, by an engine or motor. Each wheel may have a braking system 104 that allows the vehicle to slow down or stop, such as when a vehicle operator 106 presses a brake pedal or if a driver assistance system identifies that the vehicle speed should be reduced. The vehicle 100 includes one or more seats 108. As discussed herein, the seat 108 may include one or more sensors 110 that allow one or more vehicle control systems 112 to determine whether the vehicle operator is sitting in the seat 108. In some embodiments, there may be additional sensors 111 such as those operably coupled to a passenger seat 109. In some embodiments, the sensor 110 may also provide data to the control system 112 about whether the operator has moved (e.g., changed position). In some embodiments, the vehicle 100 may include control devices that allow the vehicle operator 106 to control / operate the vehicle, such as a steering wheel 114, a brake pedal and an accelerator pedal, and a transmission or "shift" mechanism.

[0066] The vehicle 100 may include various subsystems that assist in operating the vehicle. These systems may include an engine control unit 116, a communication circuit 118, a telematics system 120, an infotainment system, an audio system, a video display system 122, and the like. It should be understood that the video display system 122 may be integrated into the vehicle dashboard or the vehicle infotainment system. In one embodiment, the vehicle 100 may include a windshield 124 that includes a device for displaying information (e.g., a head-up display or an embedded active display element (e.g., a transparent OLED display element, i.e., a TOLED)). The vehicle may also include ports or communication connections such as a universal serial bus (USB) 126, an onboard diagnostic port (ODP) 128, WiFi, and / or Bluetooth TM In one embodiment, the vehicle 100 may include a CAN bus 130 that allows various subsystems, sensors, and devices (eg, microphones, speakers) to communicate with the control system 112. It should be appreciated that although Figure 1 A single block for the controller 112 is shown, but this is for illustrative purposes only and the claims should not be limited in this regard. The functionality of the control system 112 or controller described herein may be distributed among multiple computing devices. In some embodiments, the control system 112 may be connected to a distributed computing network or a "cloud" based computer network.

[0067] As discussed herein, the vehicle 100 also includes a VMDDI module 132. It should be understood that while the VMDDI module 132 is shown as a discrete component, this is for illustrative purposes and that the functionality of the VMDDI module 132 may be incorporated into another subsystem such as, for example, the controller 112 or an infotainment system. In one embodiment, ports and communication connections (such as, for example, the USB port 126) are connected to the VMDDI module 132 via the CAN bus 130. In some embodiments, the VMDDI module 132 is added to the vehicle by coupling the module to one of the ports 126, 128 or via a wireless connection (e.g., WiFi or Bluetooth).

[0068] In one embodiment, the vehicle operator 106 has a wearable medical device 134 having one or more medical sensors 136 that measure parameters associated with a medical condition, such as, for example, but not limited to, blood sugar level, blood pressure, heart rate. The medical device 134 may also include one or more systems for administering a medicament to the vehicle operator 106. As used herein, a medicament may be a substance that can regulate or alleviate a monitored medical condition, such as, for example, insulin. As discussed herein, the medical device 134 is coupled to communicate with the VMDDI module 132 and / or the medical sensor 136. In one embodiment, the medical device 134 establishes a communication connection with the VMDDI module 132 when the vehicle is started or when the vehicle operator 106 enters the vehicle 100.

[0069] In one embodiment, the VMDDI module 132 can be operably connected to other medical devices and sensors, such as, for example, medical devices 135 and sensors 137 on the occupants in the rear seat 109. It should be understood that the VMDDI module 132 can be configured to monitor sensors and devices from multiple people in the vehicle 100 and provide personalized displays and warning signals to the vehicle operator. This provides the advantage of allowing the vehicle operator to monitor the occupant's condition in a continuous, periodic, or non-periodic manner.

[0070] See now Figure 2 , shows a data flow 200 from a medical device 134 through a VMDDI module 132 to a subsystem of a vehicle 100. In this embodiment, the medical device 134 receives data from a medical sensor 136. In one embodiment, the medical sensor 136 is directly coupled to the VMDDI module 132. The data of the medical sensor 136 is transmitted to the VMDDI module 132. In one embodiment, the dedicated display 123 can be a touch screen. In normal operation (i.e., no undesirable medical condition), and depending on the operating mode (e.g., continuous mode, condition change mode, or alarm mode), the VMDDI module 132 can then transmit a signal with the data to the dedicated display 123, or to another indicator device such as the instrument panel 122, the windshield 124 display, or the audio system 138 via the CAN bus 130.

[0071] In addition, the VMDDI module 132 may also receive a signal, such as when the vehicle operator acknowledges a warning on the dedicated display 123. The VMDDI module 132 may also receive a signal with data from the CAN bus 130, such as from an interactive voice response unit 140, which receives audio input from the vehicle operator, such as via a microphone integrated into the interior of the vehicle 100. The input may also come from a software application on the instrument panel 144, the telematics system 120, the driver assistance system 142, or the infotainment system 122.

[0072] See now Figure 3 , an embodiment of a method 300 of operating a vehicle 100 and a VMDDI module 132 is shown. The method 300 begins at block 302, where a medical condition is monitored, such as using, for example, a medical sensor 136 and / or a medical device 134. The method 300 then proceeds to block 304, where a signal indicating a medical parameter is transmitted to the VMDDI module 132. The VMDDI module 132 then evaluates the parameter in query block 306 and determines whether it has exceeded one or more thresholds. For example, if blood glucose is being monitored, the VMDDI module 132 determines whether the parameter exceeds a predetermined threshold or is below a predetermined threshold. If the threshold is not exceeded, the method 300 loops back to block 302 and continues to measure the parameter.

[0073] When the parameter is at a level exceeding the threshold, the method 300 proceeds to box 308, where an indicator device is activated. The indicator device may include a dedicated display 123, an infotainment system 122, an instrument panel 144, a windshield 124 display, and an audio system 138. The method 300 then proceeds to an inquiry box 310, where the VMDDI module 132 waits a predetermined amount of time to see if an input is received. The input may be an audible input, such as, for example, through an interactive voice response unit 140 or a touch screen on a dedicated display 123 or an instrument panel 144. When the inquiry box 310 returns a yes, it means that the vehicle operator has provided a confirmation input, such as, for example, through an interactive voice response unit 140, and the method 300 proceeds to box 312, where a first type of action is performed. The first type of action may depend on the input received from the vehicle operator. For example, if the vehicle operator wants to confirm the warning but does not take action, the VMDDI module 132 may silence the warning for a predetermined amount of time. The vehicle operator may also command other actions, such as, for example, administering medication, contacting specific medical personnel (eg, the operator's personal physician), contacting emergency medical responders, or contacting a predetermined contact (eg, a spouse or partner).

[0074] When the query box 310 returns negative, which means that there is no response from the vehicle operator, the method 300 proceeds to box 314, where a second type of action is performed. In some embodiments, for the second type of action, the VMDDI module 132 may take more proactive steps to prevent undesirable events from occurring in the event that the vehicle operator is impaired by a medical condition. In one embodiment, the method 300 may use additional information sensors in the vehicle 100, such as seat sensors 110 or sensors that detect movement of the steering wheel. Based on the measurements of these systems, the VMDDI module 132 may take different actions. In one embodiment, in the event that the sensor indicates movement such as the operator actively moving the steering wheel or moving in the seat, the VMDDI module 132 may wait for a predetermined amount of time (e.g., depending on the urgency of the medical condition) and activate the indicator device a second time (box 308) before taking further steps.

[0075] In one embodiment, in the case where the medical condition indicates a high level of urgency, meaning that there is a probability that the vehicle operator's driving ability is impaired due to the medical condition that exceeds a threshold, the VMDDI module 132 may perform one or more actions to avoid an undesirable event in the vehicle or transport the vehicle operator to a medical facility for further evaluation. In one embodiment, the second type of action in block 314 may include performing multiple steps, including contacting emergency personnel, changing the speed and / or direction of the vehicle, or activating a response by one or more medical devices. In one embodiment, the second type of action may include activating a driver assistance system 142 in the vehicle 100 to move the vehicle 100 to the shoulder or side of the road, and turning on the vehicle's hazard warning lights while simultaneously contacting emergency medical or emergency services. In another embodiment, in the case where the vehicle 100 includes autonomous driving capabilities, the VMDDI module 132 may include identifying the nearest medical facility (e.g., a hospital) and controlling the speed and direction of the vehicle 100 to transport the vehicle operator to the medical facility.

[0076] It should be understood that although the embodiments herein may relate to specific medical conditions, such as, for example, diabetes or heart disease, this is for illustrative purposes only, and the claims should not be limited thereto. In other embodiments, other medical devices, sensors, and medical conditions may be monitored, and measures appropriate to these medical conditions may be taken. For example, medical conditions may include, but are not limited to, vertigo, cerebrovascular disease, stroke, transient ischemic attack (TIA), multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, motor neuron disease, aneurysm, syncope / fainting, lung disease / oxygen use, hypertension or hypotension, angina, arrhythmia, seizures, and epilepsy.

[0077] It should be understood that although the term "vehicle" may be used herein in the context of an "automobile" vehicle, this is for exemplary purposes only and the claims should not be so limited. As used herein, the term "vehicle" may be any transportation system, such as, but not limited to, an automobile, a motorcycle, a truck, a van, a bus, construction equipment, a train, an airplane, and a boat.

[0078] The term "about" is intended to include the degree of error associated with the measurement of a particular quantity based on the equipment available at the time of filing this application. For example, "about" may include a range of ±8% or 5% or 2% of a given value.

[0079] In addition, the term "exemplary" is used herein to mean "serving as an example, instance, or illustration". Any embodiment or design described herein as "exemplary" is not necessarily to be construed as being preferred or advantageous over other embodiments or designs. The terms "at least one" and "one or more" should be understood to include any integer greater than or equal to one, i.e., one, two, three, four, etc. The term "plurality" should be understood to include any integer greater than or equal to two, i.e., two, three, four, five, etc. The term "connection" may include indirect "connection" and direct "connection". It should also be noted that the terms "first", "second", "third", "upper", "lower", etc. may be used herein to modify various elements. Unless otherwise specified, these modifications do not imply a spatial, sequential, or hierarchical order of the modified elements.

[0080] The terms used herein are only used for the purpose of describing specific embodiments and are not intended to limit the present disclosure. As used herein, the singular forms "one", "an" and "said" are intended to include plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that when used in this specification, the terms "include" and / or "comprise" specify the presence of the described features, integers, steps, operations, elements and / or parts, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, element parts and / or their groups.

[0081] Although the present disclosure is provided in detail only in conjunction with a limited number of embodiments, it should be readily understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments disclosed in this manner. On the contrary, the present disclosure may be modified to incorporate any number of variations, changes, substitutions, or equivalent arrangements not previously described but commensurate with the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. In addition, although various embodiments of the present disclosure have been described, it should be understood that the exemplary embodiments may include only some of the exemplary aspects described. Therefore, the present disclosure should not be considered to be limited by the foregoing description, but only by the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A vehicle having a system operably connected to a personal medical device having a sensor, the vehicle comprising: an indicator device having at least one of an audio device or a visual indicator device; a medical device display interface coupled to communicate with the personal medical device; as well as A controller is operably coupled to the medical device display interface and the indicator device, the controller being operable to receive a first signal from the medical device display interface and to activate the indicator device in response to the first signal including data regarding an undesirable condition.

2. The vehicle according to claim 1, wherein: The activation of the indicator device includes at least one of activating a sound from the audio device or displaying a message on the visual indicator.

3. The vehicle according to claim 1, wherein: The controller is further operable to control at least one of a speed or a direction of the vehicle in response to the first signal.

4. The vehicle according to claim 1, wherein: The controller is further operable to administer a medicament in response to the first signal.

5. The vehicle of claim 1, wherein: The controller is further operable to receive a second signal in response to an action by a vehicle operator.

6. The vehicle according to claim 5, wherein: The action includes at least one of speaking a command, activating an actuator, or touching a graphical user interface on the visual indicator.

7. The vehicle of claim 5, wherein: The controller is further operable to activate the communication circuit when the action is not performed within a predetermined amount of time.

8. The vehicle of claim 7, wherein: The controller is configured to receive a third signal from the communication circuit and control a direction and a speed of the vehicle to move the vehicle to a medical facility.

9. The vehicle of claim 1, wherein: The indicator device, the medical device display interface, and the controller are connected via a controller area network (CAN) bus.

10. The vehicle of claim 1, wherein: The personal medical device is connected to the medical device display interface via one of a universal serial bus (USB) connector, an on-board diagnostic (OBD) port, or a wireless connection.

11. The vehicle of claim 1, wherein: The first signal includes a plurality of first signals received in a continuous, periodic or periodically updated manner.

12. The vehicle of claim 11, wherein: The controller is further operable to display data from the plurality of first signals on the visual indicator when each of the plurality of first signals is received.

13. The vehicle of claim 11, wherein: The controller may be further operable to display the data on the visual indicator when the data from the plurality of first signals changes beyond a threshold.

14. The vehicle of claim 1, wherein: The indicator device is operably coupled to a vehicle infotainment system.

15. The vehicle of claim 14, wherein: The audio device includes a speaker integrated into the vehicle.

16. The vehicle of claim 15, wherein: The visual indicator includes a display screen integrated into a dashboard of the vehicle.

17. The vehicle of claim 1, wherein: The sensor is positioned on the vehicle operator.

18. The vehicle of claim 17, wherein: The sensor includes a plurality of sensors, at least one sensor of the plurality of sensors being positioned on a person other than an operator of the vehicle.

19. A method of operating a vehicle, comprising: utilizing a medical device having a sensor to monitor a medical condition of a vehicle operator; sending a first signal from the medical device to a medical device display interface, the first signal indicative of a medical parameter of the vehicle operator measured by the sensor; as well as The first signal received via the medical device display interface is monitored with a controller and an indicator device is activated in response to the medical parameter exceeding a threshold, the indicator device being integrated with the vehicle.

20. The method of claim 19, wherein: Said activating said indicator device comprises activating at least one of a sound from an audio device or displaying a message on a visual indicator.

21. The method of claim 19, further comprising: receiving an input signal from an operator of the vehicle after the indicator device is activated; as well as In response to receiving the input signal, a medicament is administered using the medical device.

22. The method of claim 21, wherein: The input signal is received via a microphone within the vehicle.

23. The method of claim 19, further comprising: When no input signal is received from the vehicle operator within a predetermined amount of time after the indicator device is activated, a communication circuit within the vehicle is activated.

24. The method of claim 23, further comprising: receiving a second signal from medical personnel via the communication circuit; as well as The direction and speed of the vehicle are controlled to move the vehicle to a medical facility.

25. The method of claim 19, further comprising: receiving, at the controller, a location of the vehicle from a vehicle telematics device; as well as Wherein said activation of a communication circuit comprises transmitting said location of said vehicle.

26. The method of claim 19, further comprising: The vehicle is caused to perform one of a speed change and a direction change when an input signal is not received within a predetermined amount of time after the indicator device is activated.

27. The method of claim 19, wherein: The activating of the indicator device is performed when the rate of change of the medical parameter exceeds the threshold value.

28. The method of claim 19, wherein: The activating of the indicator device is performed when a difference between the medical parameter at the first time and the second time exceeds a second threshold value.

29. The method of claim 19, wherein: The first signal is transmitted in a periodic, aperiodic or continuous manner.

Images