Method and system for controlling an optical vital sign sensing device

Abstract

The invention relates to a method and system for controlling an optical vital sign sensing device. A method (100) for controlling an optical vital sign sensing device (10) is provided. The method includes activating (106) a transmission mode of the optical vital sign sensing device (10) if movement of the optical vital sign sensing device (10) meets a movement criterion and / or if a reflection mode signal quality (e.g., signal strength) of the optical vital sign sensing device (10) meets a reflection mode minimum quality criterion. A processor (28) for controlling the optical vital sign sensing device (10) and an optical vital sign sensing device (10) comprising the processor (28) are also provided.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a method and related computer program for controlling an optical vital signs sensing device.

[0002] The present invention also relates to a processor for controlling such an optical vital signs sensing device, and an optical vital signs sensing device including said processor. Background Technology

[0003] Optical vital sign sensing devices, such as plethysmography (PPG) sensing devices, are known to perform vital sign measurements when placed on a body part. Such devices can operate in either transmissive or reflective mode. In some cases, the device can operate in both transmissive and reflective modes, for example, a dual-mode optical vital sign sensing device.

[0004] In transmission mode, the transmitter and detector of the optical vital signs sensing device are separated from each other by the body part, such that light is transmitted through the body part from a detector on one side of the body part before being detected by a detector on the opposite side of the body part. For example, the transmitter and detector can be positioned on opposite sides of a finger clip.

[0005] Conversely, in reflection mode, the transmitter and detector can be positioned on the same side of the body part, such that the detector receives light that has been emitted into and reflected back from the body part. For example, the transmitter and detector can be positioned adjacent to each other on the underside of a watch with PPG sensing capabilities.

[0006] The reflectivity principle is advantageous in terms of device cost and ease of manufacture, as the transmitter and detector can be arranged side-by-side and integrated into the same circuit board and housing. However, while the reflectivity principle works well for obtaining heart rate measurements, it may be less effective for obtaining measurements such as blood oxygen saturation (SpO2) and respiratory rate.

[0007] Devices capable of performing measurements in transmission mode may be more complex to manufacture, for example, due to the positioning of the transmitter and detector on opposite sides of the device. However, compared to reflective measurements, transmission measurements allow for the collection of more detailed information. For example, when measurements are performed in transmission mode, SpO2 and respiratory rate measurements, as well as heart rate measurements, can be obtained.

[0008] US2010 / 0331638 A1 discloses a pulse oximeter that can switch from a reflective mode to a transmissive mode when the signal quality is reduced. Summary of the Invention

[0009] The reliability of measurements performed in transmission and reflection modes can vary depending on certain conditions. One potential method to ensure the reliability of results is to provide users of the equipment with manual control options, such as the ability to selectively activate or deactivate either mode. However, the effectiveness of this approach can depend on the user's skill and experience.

[0010] More generally, it is desirable to provide a method for controlling an optical vital signs sensing device to increase the likelihood of performing reliable vital signs measurements.

[0011] This invention is defined by the claims.

[0012] According to an example based on the first aspect, a method is provided, the method comprising: receiving at least one of motion data and reflection pattern data, wherein the motion data indicates movement of an optical vital signs sensing device, and wherein the reflection pattern data is associated with the reflection pattern signal quality of a vital signs measurement performed by the optical vital signs sensing device in a reflection mode; performing at least one of: determining whether the motion meets a movement criterion by analyzing the motion data; determining whether the reflection pattern signal quality meets a minimum quality criterion for a reflection mode by analyzing the reflection pattern data; and activating a transmission mode of the optical vital signs sensing device if at least one of the movement criterion and the minimum quality criterion for a reflection mode is met.

[0013] Activating the transmission mode in this manner increases the likelihood of obtaining reliable vital sign measurements using optical vital sign sensing devices. This is because the transmission mode is activated only when data (e.g., motion data and / or reflection pattern data) indicates that reliable transmission mode vital sign measurements will be obtained after the transmission mode is activated.

[0014] For example, if vital sign measurements performed in reflection mode are of high quality—for instance, if the reflection mode signal quality meets minimum quality standards—this can indicate a greater likelihood of obtaining reliable measurement results in transmission mode. Similarly, if the device movement is sufficiently low—for instance, if the device movement meets movement standards—this can indicate a greater likelihood of obtaining reliable measurement results in transmission mode due to the higher sensitivity of transmission measurement results to movement.

[0015] The optical vital signs sensing device may include an optical emitter assembly and an optical detector assembly. The device is controllable to perform vital signs measurements in a transmission mode, in which light from the optical emitter assembly is transmitted through the body part to reach the optical detector assembly, such as a first optical detector within the optical detector assembly. In other words, the device can be controllable to selectively activate or deactivate the transmission mode.

[0016] Additionally, the optical vital sign sensing device can be controllable to perform vital sign measurements in a reflective mode when the device is positioned on a body part. In this reflective mode, light from the optical emitter assembly is emitted into the body part and reflected from the body part to the optical detector assembly, such as a second optical detector within the optical detector assembly. That is, the optical vital sign sensing device can be controllable to perform vital sign measurements in both reflective and transmissive modes, allowing measurements to be performed individually in either mode or simultaneously in both modes. In other words, the device can be controllable to selectively activate or deactivate the transmissive and reflective modes. Such a device can be referred to as a dual-mode optical vital sign sensing device.

[0017] Motion data may include accelerometer data indicating the acceleration of the optical vital signs sensing device. In such embodiments, a motion criterion may be met when the motion data (e.g., accelerometer data) indicates that the movement (e.g., acceleration) of the device is below an acceleration threshold.

[0018] The signal quality in reflection mode may include one or more of the signal strength and / or signal-to-noise ratio of the vital signs measurement performed in reflection mode by an optical vital signs sensing device.

[0019] In such an embodiment, the minimum quality standard for the reflection mode can be met when the signal strength is higher than the minimum signal strength and / or when the signal-to-noise ratio is higher than the minimum signal-to-noise ratio.

[0020] In an embodiment where the optical vital signs sensing device can be controlled to perform vital signs measurements, motion data can indicate the movement of the optical vital signs sensing device when the device is positioned on a body part in a reflective mode, while the reflective mode is activated.

[0021] This method can be implemented by a processor. For example, it can receive at least one of motion data and reflection pattern data through an input port of the processor, and output the data processed by the processor through another port of the processor (e.g., an output port).

[0022] In some embodiments, receiving includes receiving motion data and reflection mode data, determining includes determining whether the motion meets a motion criterion and whether the reflection mode signal quality meets a reflection mode minimum signal criterion, and activating a transmission mode conditioned on the motion criterion and the reflection mode minimum quality criterion being met.

[0023] In this way, compared to only meeting one of the motion criteria or the minimum signal quality criteria of the reflection mode, the likelihood of obtaining reliable transmission mode vital sign measurements can be increased.

[0024] In some embodiments, the method further includes receiving transmission mode data, wherein the transmission mode data is associated with the transmission mode signal quality of a vital sign measurement performed by an optical vital sign sensing device in a transmission mode.

[0025] In other words, transmission mode data can be received after the transmission mode is activated.

[0026] In this way, the optical vital signs sensing device can be further controlled, while the transmission mode is activated.

[0027] In embodiments where the optical vital signs sensing device is a dual-mode optical vital signs sensing device, transmission mode data can be received when both reflection mode and transmission mode are activated, or when transmission mode is activated but reflection mode is not activated.

[0028] In some embodiments, the method further includes determining whether the transmission mode signal quality meets the minimum quality standard for the transmission mode by analyzing the transmission mode data, and deactivating the reflection mode if the minimum quality standard for the transmission mode is met.

[0029] This increases the likelihood of obtaining reliable measurements. This is because the reflection mode can only be deactivated once reliable measurements have been obtained in the transmission mode. This ensures the continuity of measurements.

[0030] Transmission mode signal quality can include one or more of the signal strength and / or signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of vital signs measurements performed by an optical vital signs sensing device in transmission mode. That is, the minimum quality standard for transmission mode is met when the signal strength is above a minimum signal strength and / or when the SNR is above a minimum SNR.

[0031] In some embodiments, the method further includes determining, by analyzing the motion data of the transmission mode, whether the movement of the optical vital signs sensing device when the transmission mode is activated satisfies another movement criterion, and wherein the method further includes at least one of the following: deactivating the transmission mode if the other movement criterion is satisfied and activating the reflection mode if the other movement criterion is satisfied.

[0032] This approach increases the likelihood of obtaining reliable measurements while also ensuring measurement continuity.

[0033] Transmission mode motion data may include transmission mode accelerometer data, which indicates the acceleration of the optical vital signs sensing device when transmission mode is activated. In such embodiments, another motion criterion may be met when the transmission mode motion data (e.g., transmission mode accelerometer data) indicates that the movement (e.g., acceleration) of the device is above a transmission mode acceleration threshold.

[0034] In some embodiments, the method further includes determining whether the movement of the optical vital signs sensing device without the activation of the transmission mode and the reflection mode meets the initial movement criteria by analyzing initial motion data and activating at least one of the reflection mode and the transmission mode if the initial movement criteria are met.

[0035] In this way, the vital signs sensing device can be further controlled, and the device can be left unused to perform vital signs measurements before the measurement is performed, for example, while the device is in standby mode.

[0036] Initial motion data may include initial accelerometer data indicating the acceleration of the optical vital signs sensing device, without any transmission or reflection modes being activated. In such an embodiment, an initial motion criterion may be met when the initial motion data (e.g., initial accelerometer data) indicates that the movement (e.g., acceleration) of the device is above an initial acceleration threshold.

[0037] In some embodiments, the method further includes generating a signal for creating a notification that the vital signs sensing device is being used incorrectly.

[0038] In this way, the user can be alerted when the device is used incorrectly, increasing the likelihood of obtaining reliable vital sign measurements.

[0039] In some embodiments, the method further includes receiving ambient light data of the environment in which a vital signs sensing device is being used, and generating a signal for creating a notification based at least in part on the ambient light data.

[0040] Ambient light data can include the light intensity of light in the environment where vital signs sensing devices are being used.

[0041] Ambient light levels can indicate improper use of optical vital signs sensors, such as improper placement.

[0042] In some embodiments, the signal used to create the notification is generated based at least in part on reflection pattern data.

[0043] Reflectance pattern data can indicate incorrect use of optical vital sign sensing devices. In this way, the likelihood of obtaining reliable optical vital sign measurements can be increased.

[0044] For example, low-quality vital sign measurements performed in reflective mode can indicate improper use of optical vital sign sensing devices.

[0045] Alternatively or additionally, signals used to create notifications can be generated based on motion data.

[0046] Alternatively or additionally, the signal used to create the notification may be based on transmission mode motion data and / or transmission mode data.

[0047] Reflection pattern data and / or transmission pattern data can indicate one or more heart rate measurements, blood oxygenation measurements, and / or respiratory measurements.

[0048] For example, reflex mode data can indicate one or more heart rate measurements performed by the device in reflex mode.

[0049] For example, transmission mode data can indicate one or more heart rate measurements, blood oxygenation measurements, and / or respiratory measurements performed by the device in transmission mode.

[0050] In some embodiments, green light is emitted by the emitter assembly when the reflection mode is activated, and at least one of red light and infrared light is emitted by the emitter assembly when the transmission mode is activated.

[0051] According to a second aspect, a computer program is provided that includes computer-readable instructions that encode the steps of the methods of any of the embodiments described herein.

[0052] In other words, a computer program comprising instructions may be provided that, when executed by a processor, causes the processor to perform a method according to any of the embodiments described herein.

[0053] According to a third aspect, a processor configured to execute computer programs is provided.

[0054] In other words, the processor is configured to: receive at least one of the following: motion data and reflection mode data, wherein the motion data indicates movement of the optical vital signs sensing device, and wherein the reflection mode data is associated with the reflection mode signal quality of a vital signs measurement performed by the optical vital signs sensing device in reflection mode; perform at least one of the following: determine whether the movement meets a movement criterion by analyzing the motion data; determine whether the reflection mode signal quality meets a minimum quality criterion for reflection mode by analyzing the reflection mode data; and activate the transmission mode of the optical vital signs sensing device if at least one of the movement criterion and the minimum quality criterion for reflection mode is met.

[0055] This method can be implemented by a processor. For example, at least one of motion data and reflection pattern data can be received through an input port of the processor, and the data processed by the processor can be output through another port of the processor (e.g., an output port).

[0056] A processor, for example, can be a processor circuit.

[0057] According to a fourth aspect, an optical vital signs sensing device is provided, comprising: an optical transmitter assembly; and an optical detector assembly including a first optical detector; the optical vital signs sensing device is configured to: perform vital signs measurements in at least a transmission mode when the device is disposed on a body part, in which light from the optical transmitter assembly is transmitted through the body part to reach the first optical detector; and a processor configured to: receive at least one of: motion data and reflection pattern data, wherein the motion data indicates movement of the optical vital signs sensing device, and wherein the reflection pattern data is associated with the reflection pattern signal quality of a vital signs measurement performed by the optical vital signs sensing device in the reflection mode; perform at least one of: determining whether the movement meets a movement criterion by analyzing the motion data; determining whether the reflection pattern signal quality meets a minimum reflection pattern quality criterion by analyzing the reflection pattern data; and activating the transmission mode of the optical vital signs sensing device if at least one of the movement criterion and the minimum reflection pattern quality criterion is met.

[0058] In some embodiments, the optical detector assembly includes a second optical detector, wherein the optical vital signs sensing device is configured to perform vital signs measurements on a body part in a reflection mode in which light from the optical emitter assembly is emitted into and reflected from the body part to the second optical detector.

[0059] In some embodiments, the optical vital signs sensing device further includes a motion sensor for providing motion data.

[0060] The motion sensor can be an accelerometer, and the motion data can be accelerometer data.

[0061] According to a fifth aspect, a method is provided, comprising using a first processor to cause a second processor to execute a computer program, the computer program comprising computer-readable instructions encoded with steps of the method of any of the embodiments described herein.

[0062] For example, the second processor may be a processor included in an optical vital signs sensing device. The first and second processors may be separate devices each included in a processing system, such as a distributed system in which the first processor is located remotely from the second processor.

[0063] According to the sixth aspect, a computer program is provided that includes computer-readable instructions encoding the steps of the fifth aspect.

[0064] In other words, a computer program including instructions is provided that, when executed by a processor (e.g., a first processor), causes another processor (e.g., a second processor) to perform the steps of the method of the fifth aspect.

[0065] A processor, such as a first processor, is also provided, which is configured to execute a computer program including computer-readable instructions that encode the steps of the fifth aspect.

[0066] One or more non-transitory computer-readable media may be provided, on which a computer program is stored, the computer program including computer program code configured to cause the processor to perform any of the methods according to the embodiments described herein when the computer program is run on a processor.

[0067] More generally, the embodiments described herein with respect to the optical vital signs sensing device can be applied to the method and computer program, and the embodiments described herein with respect to the method and computer program can be applied to a beverage machine.

[0068] These and other aspects of the invention will become apparent from the embodiments described below. Attached Figure Description

[0069] To better understand the invention and to more clearly illustrate how to implement it, reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings by way of example only, in which:

[0070] Figure 1 A block diagram of an optical vital signs sensing device based on an example is provided.

[0071] Figure 2 A diagram of a transmissive optical vital signs sensing device based on an example is provided.

[0072] Figure 3 An example of a reflective optical vital signs sensing device is provided.

[0073] Figure 4 An example of a reflective and transmissive vital signs sensing device is provided.

[0074] Figure 5 A flowchart is provided illustrating typical usage scenarios for optical vital signs sensing devices.

[0075] Figure 6 A flowchart based on an example method is provided. Detailed Implementation

[0076] The invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0077] It should be understood that the detailed description and specific examples, while indicating exemplary embodiments of the apparatuses, systems, and methods, are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the apparatuses, systems, and methods of the present invention will become more readily apparent from the following description, the appended claims, and the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the drawings are merely schematic and not drawn to scale. It should also be understood that the same reference numerals are used throughout the drawings to denote the same or similar parts.

[0078] A method for controlling an optical vital signs sensing device is provided. The method includes: activating the transmission mode of the optical vital signs sensing device if the movement of the optical vital signs sensing device meets a movement criterion and / or if the reflection mode signal quality (e.g., signal strength) of the optical vital signs sensing device meets a minimum reflection mode quality criterion.

[0079] It also provides a processor for controlling an optical vital signs sensing device, and an optical vital signs sensing device including the processor.

[0080] An optical vital sign sensing device (e.g., a PPG sensing device) is configured to perform vital sign measurements when the device is placed on a body part. The optical vital sign sensing device includes an optical emitter assembly and an optical detector assembly, the optical detector assembly including a first optical detector. The optical vital sign sensing device is configured to perform vital sign measurements at least in a transmission mode, in which light from the optical emitter assembly is transmitted through the body part to reach the first optical detector.

[0081] In addition to the first optical detector, the optical detector assembly may also include a second optical detector. When the optical detector assembly includes a second optical detector, the optical vital signs sensing device can be configured to perform vital signs measurements on a body part in a reflective mode, in which light from the optical emitter assembly is emitted into the body part and reflected from the body part to the second optical detector.

[0082] The optical vital signs sensing device further includes a processor for controlling the optical vital signs sensing device. The processor is configured to receive at least one of motion data and reflection mode data, wherein the motion data indicates movement of the optical vital signs sensing device, and wherein the reflection mode data is associated with the reflection mode signal quality of the optical vital signs sensing device. The processor is also configured to perform at least one of the following: determining whether the movement meets a movement criterion by analyzing the motion data and determining whether the reflection mode signal quality meets a minimum reflection mode quality criterion by analyzing the reflection mode data. The processor is further configured to activate the transmission mode of the optical vital signs sensing device if at least one of the movement criterion and the minimum reflection mode quality criterion is met.

[0083] Figure 1 A block diagram of an optical vital signs sensing device 10 according to an example is provided. The optical vital signs sensing device 10 includes an optical emitter assembly 12 for emitting light when the device performs vital signs measurements. For this purpose, the optical emitter assembly 12 may include one or more diodes 14, 16, 18.

[0084] In some embodiments, such as Figure 1 In the illustrated embodiment, the optical emitter assembly 12 includes more than one diode, such as diodes 14, 16, and 18, configured to emit light, such as visible or infrared light, while performing vital sign measurements. In such an embodiment, each diode may be configured to primarily emit light of a specific wavelength or wavelength range. For example, diode 14 may be configured to emit green light, diode 16 may be configured to emit red light, and diode 18 may be configured to emit infrared light.

[0085] More generally, the optical emitter assembly 12 may include any number of diodes that can be configured to emit light at any wavelength within the visible or infrared spectrum.

[0086] In some embodiments, such as Figure 1 As shown, the optical vital signs sensing device 10 includes an optical detector assembly 20. The optical detector assembly 20 may include a first optical detector 22 configured to receive light emitted by the transmitter assembly 12. For example, the first optical detector 22 may include one or more photodiodes.

[0087] In such an embodiment, the first optical detector 22 may be arranged relative to the optical emitter assembly 12, for example, relative to one or more diodes of the optical emitter assembly 12, such that the optical vital signs sensing device 10 may be configured to perform vital signs measurement in a transmission mode. That is, the optical emitter assembly 12 and the first optical detector 22 may be arranged such that light from the optical emitter assembly 12 is transmitted through the body part to reach the first optical detector 22, while performing vital signs measurement.

[0088] In some embodiments, such as Figure 1 As shown, the optical detector assembly 20 may include a second optical detector 24 configured to receive light emitted by the transmitter assembly 12. For example, the second optical detector 24 may include one or more photodiodes.

[0089] In such an embodiment, the second optical detector 24 may be arranged relative to the optical emitter assembly 12, for example, relative to one or more diodes of the optical emitter assembly 12, such that the optical vital signs sensing device 10 may be configured to perform vital signs measurements in a reflective mode. That is, the optical emitter assembly 12 and the second optical detector 24 may be arranged such that when a measurement is performed on a body part, light from the optical detector assembly 20 is emitted into and reflected from the body part to reach the optical detector 20.

[0090] Although Figure 1 The optical vital signs sensing device 10 is configured to perform measurements in both reflective and transmissive modes, but it does not need to be configured to perform measurements in reflective mode. That is, Figure 1 The device 10 can also be configured to perform measurements only in transmission mode, as discussed below. Figure 2 10 Optical vital signs sensing device.

[0091] Figure 2 A non-limiting illustrative example of an optical vital signs sensing device 10 is provided, which is configured to perform vital signs measurements on a finger only in a transmission mode, e.g., not in a reflection mode. In such an example, diodes 16, 18 may be arranged on the side of the device 10 opposite to a first optical detector 22 included by an optical detector assembly 20 (not shown), such that when the device 10 is placed on a finger, light 30 (e.g., red or infrared light) emitted from diodes 16, 18 passes through the finger (e.g., through blood vessels 36) to reach the first optical detector 22.

[0092] Figure 3 A non-limiting illustrative example of an optical vital signs sensing device configured to perform vital signs measurements only on a finger in reflective mode is provided. In such an example, (multiple) diodes may be arranged on the same side of the device as a second optical detector 24 included by optical detector assembly 20 (not shown), such that when the device is placed on a finger, light (e.g., green light) is emitted from (multiple) diodes into the finger (e.g., blood vessel 36) and reflected from the finger (e.g., blood vessel 36) back to the second optical detector 24.

[0093] Figure 4 An example of an optical vital signs sensing device 10 is provided, which is configured to sense vital signs in, for example... Figure 1Vital signs are measured on the finger in both reflection and transmission modes. In such an example, diodes 16 and 18 can be arranged on the side of device 10 opposite to the first optical detector 22 included by optical detector assembly 20 (not shown), such that light 30 emitted from diodes 16 and 18, for example, red or infrared light, passes through the finger, for example, through blood vessels 36, to reach the first optical detector 22, as shown. Figure 2 As shown. In such an example, (a plurality of) diodes 14 can be arranged on the same side of the device 10 as the second optical detector 24 included by the optical detector assembly 20 (not shown), such that light 30 (e.g., green light) is emitted into the finger (e.g., blood vessel 36) and reflected from the finger (e.g., blood vessel 36) back to the second optical detector 24, as shown. Figure 3 As shown. In other words, Figure 4 The optical vital signs sensing device 10 combines Figure 2 and Figure 3 The component's reflection and transmission sensing capabilities.

[0094] In an example of a device 10 configured to perform measurements in both transmission and reflection modes, such as Figure 1 and Figure 4 In those examples, the first optical detector 22 and the second optical detector 24 can be arranged on the same side of the optical vital signs sensing device 10. Alternatively, the first optical detector 22 and the second optical detector 24 can be arranged on opposite sides of the optical vital signs sensing device 10.

[0095] In some embodiments, the optical transmitter assembly 12 and the optical detector assembly 20 may be included, for example, integrated into one or more circuit boards 32. The one or more circuit boards 32 may be connected via connector 34.

[0096] More generally, the optical vital signs sensing device 10 may include a housing and / or mounting components (not shown) to allow the device 10 to be fixed to a body part while performing vital signs measurements in transmission and / or reflection modes. For example, Figure 4 The device 10 may include a finger clip (not shown) to allow the device 10 to be secured to a finger while performing optical vital sign measurements. It should be noted that, although... Figures 2 to 4 The illustrative example relates to an optical vital sign sensing device 10 for performing measurements on a finger, but the device 10 can be configured in any suitable manner to enable vital sign measurements to be performed on different body parts. For example, the housing and / or fixing components can be incorporated into a wristband to enable measurements to be performed on the wrist (e.g., a watch strap).

[0097] While performing the reflection mode measurement, the emitter assembly 12 can be controlled such that light (e.g., green light) is emitted from one or more diodes (e.g., multiple diodes 14) and received by the second optical detector 24. During this reflection mode measurement, the reflection mode can be considered to be active.

[0098] While performing the transmission mode measurement, the transmitter assembly 12 can be controlled such that light (e.g., red light and / or infrared light) is emitted from one or more diodes (e.g., diodes 16, 18) and received by the first optical detector 22. During this transmission mode measurement, the transmission mode can be considered active.

[0099] More generally, and regardless of whether the optical vital signs sensing device 10 is configured to operate only in transmission mode (such as in...), Figure 2 (in) or in both reflection and transmission modes (such as in) Figure 1 and Figure 4 During measurement, the device 10 can be controlled to selectively activate and deactivate the transmission mode and / or reflection mode.

[0100] In embodiments configured to perform vital sign measurements in both transmission and reflection modes, such as Figure 1 and Figure 4 The device 10 can activate or deactivate each mode individually or simultaneously, so that measurements can be performed in a single mode or in both modes simultaneously.

[0101] While transmissive mode allows for a wider range of vital sign measurements, such as heart rate, SpO2, and respiratory rate, the increased sensitivity of transmissive measurements, such as increased sensitivity to movement, can increase the likelihood of unreliable results. Therefore, there is a risk that transmissive measurements may be performed even when reliable results are unlikely.

[0102] Conversely, while it might be desirable to perform reflectance measurements due to the higher probability of obtaining reliable results, for example, due to reduced motion sensitivity, the range of data available in reflectance modes may be more limited. Therefore, valuable additional transmission mode data may be missed when they have actually been reliably obtained.

[0103] Therefore, it is desirable to provide a simple method for controlling the optical vital signs sensing device 10 to increase the possibility of performing reliable measurements.

[0104] refer to Figure 6 Therefore, this disclosure provides a method 100 for controlling an optical vital signs sensing device 10.

[0105] The optical vital signs sensing device 10 may include a processor 28 configured to receive at least one of motion data 106 and reflection pattern data, wherein the motion data indicates movement of the optical vital signs sensing device 10, and wherein the reflection pattern data is associated with the reflection pattern signal quality of a vital signs measurement performed by the optical vital signs sensing device 10 in reflection mode. The processor 28 may be configured to perform at least one of the following: determining whether movement 108 meets a movement criterion by analyzing the motion data and determining whether the reflection pattern signal quality meets a minimum reflection pattern quality criterion by analyzing the reflection pattern data. The processor 28 may also be configured to activate the transmission mode of the optical vital signs sensing device 10 110 if at least one of the movement criterion and the minimum reflection pattern quality criterion is met.

[0106] Activating the transmission mode in this manner increases the likelihood of obtaining reliable vital sign measurements using the optical vital sign sensing device 10. This is because the transmission mode is only activated when data (e.g., motion data or reflection pattern data) indicates that reliable transmission mode vital sign measurements can be obtained after the transmission mode is activated.

[0107] For example, if the vital sign measurement performed in reflective mode is of high quality, such as when the signal quality meets minimum quality standards, this can indicate a greater likelihood of obtaining reliable measurement results using the optical vital sign sensing device 10 in transmissive mode. Similarly, if the movement of the device 10 is sufficiently low, such as when the movement of the device 10 meets movement standards, this can indicate a greater likelihood of obtaining reliable measurements in transmissive mode due to the higher sensitivity of transmissive measurements to motion.

[0108] In such an embodiment, the processor 28 can activate the 110 transmission mode by controlling the operation of the optical emitter assembly 12, so that light is emitted from the optical emitter assembly 12 to the optical detector assembly 20, such as the first optical detector 22.

[0109] In some embodiments, the optical vital signs sensing device 10 further includes a motion sensor 26 for providing motion data, such as an accelerometer.

[0110] Motion data may include accelerometer data from motion sensor 26 (e.g., accelerometer) indicating the acceleration of optical vital signs sensing device 10. In such an embodiment, a movement criterion may be met when the motion data (e.g., accelerometer data) indicates that the movement (e.g., acceleration) of device 10 is below an acceleration threshold.

[0111] In a non-limiting example, while device 10 performs vital sign measurements on a body part in reflective mode, the processor can receive 106 reflective mode data associated with the signal quality of the vital sign measurements performed by device 10 in reflective mode. If the processor 28 subsequently determines that the signal quality is sufficiently high, for example, that the reflective mode signal quality meets the minimum quality standard for reflective mode, the processor 110 can activate a transmission mode, causing light to pass from the optical emitter assembly 12 through the body part to reach the first optical detector 22. In this example, the reflective mode may remain active or may be deactivated when the transmission mode is activated.

[0112] The signal quality in reflection mode can include one or more of the signal strength and / or signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) measured by the optical vital signs sensing device 10 in reflection mode. That is, the minimum quality standard for reflection mode can be met when the signal strength is higher than the minimum signal strength and / or when the SNR is higher than the minimum SNR.

[0113] In another non-limiting example, processor 28 may receive motion data, such as motion data from motion sensor 26, indicating movement of device 10 when reflective mode is activated. If processor 28 determines that the movement is sufficiently low, for example, that the movement meets a movement criterion, processor 28 may activate transmission mode 110, causing light to be emitted from emitter assembly 12 through the body part to reach first optical detector 22. In such an example, device 10 may be configured to perform vital sign measurements, such as..., in both transmission and reflective modes. Figure 1 and Figure 4 Device 10. Alternatively, device 10 can be configured to perform measurements only in transmission mode, for example, without reflection mode, such as... Figure 2 Equipment 10.

[0114] In any such example, if neither the motion criterion nor the minimum quality criterion for the reflection mode is met, then processor 28 may not activate the transmission mode.

[0115] In an embodiment where the optical vital signs sensing device 10 can be controlled to perform vital signs measurements on body parts in a reflective mode, motion data can indicate the movement of the optical vital signs sensing device 10 when the reflective mode is activated.

[0116] In some embodiments, processor 28 may be configured to receive both motion data 106 and reflection mode data, and to determine whether the motion 108 meets a motion criterion by analyzing the motion data, and to determine whether the reflection mode signal quality meets a minimum reflection mode signal quality criterion by analyzing the reflection mode data. In such embodiments, processor 28 may also be configured to activate transmission mode 110 if both the motion criterion and the minimum reflection mode quality criterion are met.

[0117] In this way, compared to only meeting one of the motion criteria or the minimum signal quality criteria of the reflection mode, the likelihood of obtaining reliable transmission mode vital sign measurements can be increased.

[0118] In a non-limiting example, when device 10 performs vital sign measurements on a body part in reflective mode, the processor may receive 106 reflective mode data associated with the signal quality of the vital sign measurement performed by device 10 in reflective mode, as well as motion data indicating the movement of device 10 during the performance of the reflective mode measurement. If processor 28 subsequently determines that the signal quality is sufficiently high, for example, the reflective mode signal quality meets a minimum quality criterion for reflective mode, and the movement is sufficiently low, for example, the movement meets a movement criterion, then processor 110 may activate a transmission mode, such that light from optical emitter assembly 12 is transmitted through the body part to reach first optical detector 22. In this example, the reflective mode may remain active or may be deactivated when transmission mode 110 is activated.

[0119] In some embodiments, the processor 28 may be configured to receive 112 transmission mode data, wherein the transmission mode data is associated with the transmission mode signal quality of a vital signs measurement performed by the optical vital signs sensing device 10 in transmission mode.

[0120] In other words, transmission mode data can be received after the transmission mode is activated.

[0121] In this way, the optical vital signs sensing device 10 can be further controlled, while the transmission mode is activated.

[0122] In embodiments where the optical vital signs sensing device is a dual-mode device, such as Figure 1 and Figure 4 The device 10 can receive transmission mode data when both reflection mode and transmission mode are activated, or when transmission mode is activated but reflection mode is not activated.

[0123] In some embodiments, the processor 28 is configured to determine whether the quality of the 114A transmission mode signal meets the minimum quality standard for transmission mode by analyzing the transmission mode data, and if the minimum quality standard for transmission mode is met, then deactivate the reflection mode.

[0124] This increases the likelihood of obtaining reliable measurements. This is because the reflection mode can only be deactivated after a reliable measurement has been obtained in the transmission mode. This also ensures the continuity of the measurement.

[0125] In a non-limiting example, once the transmission mode is activated 110, the processor 28 can receive the transmission mode data 112. The processor 28 can then determine whether the transmission mode signal quality 114A meets the minimum quality standard for the transmission mode. If the quality standard is met, for example, if the transmission mode signal quality is sufficiently high, the processor 28 can deactivate the reflection mode, leaving only the transmission mode active.

[0126] The transmission mode signal quality may include one or more of the signal strength and / or signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) measured by the optical vital signs sensing device 10 in the transmission mode. That is, the minimum quality standard for the transmission mode can be met when the signal strength is higher than the minimum signal strength and / or when the SNR is higher than the minimum SNR.

[0127] In some embodiments, the processor 28 is configured to determine whether the movement of the 114B optical vital signs sensing device 10 when the transmission mode is activated meets another movement criterion by analyzing the transmission mode motion data, and wherein the method further includes at least one of the following: deactivating the 116B transmission mode if the other movement criterion is met and activating the 116C reflection mode if the other movement criterion is met.

[0128] This approach increases the likelihood of obtaining reliable measurements while also ensuring measurement continuity.

[0129] Transmission mode motion data may include transmission mode accelerometer data, which indicates the acceleration of the optical vital signs sensing device 10 when the transmission mode is activated. In such an embodiment, another movement criterion may be met when the transmission mode motion data (e.g., transmission mode accelerometer data) indicates that the movement (e.g., acceleration) of the device 10 is above a transmission mode acceleration threshold.

[0130] Transmission mode motion data can be obtained from motion sensor 26.

[0131] In a non-limiting example, if processor 28 determines that another movement criterion is met, for example, the movement of device 10 is high, then processor 28 may deactivate the 116B transmission mode, since it is unlikely that reliable results will be obtained due to the high movement of device 10.

[0132] In a non-limiting example, if processor 28 determines that a movement criterion is met, for example, if the movement of device 10 is high, processor 28 may activate the 116C reflection mode to increase the likelihood of obtaining reliable vital sign measurements due to the reduced sensitivity of the reflection mode to movement. In such examples, the transmission mode may remain active, or the processor may deactivate the 116B transmission mode, such that only the reflection mode remains active.

[0133] In some embodiments, the processor 28 is configured to determine whether the movement of the optical vital signs sensing device 1010 when neither the transmission mode nor the reflection mode is activated meets the initial movement criteria by analyzing initial motion data and activating at least one of the reflection mode and the transmission mode 104 if the initial movement criteria are met.

[0134] In this way, before performing a measurement, when the vital signs sensing device 10 is not used to perform a vital signs measurement, that is, when the device 10 is in standby mode, the vital signs sensing device 10 can be further controlled.

[0135] Initial motion data may include initial accelerometer data indicating the acceleration of the optical vital signs sensing device 10, without any transmission or reflection modes being activated. In such an embodiment, an initial motion criterion can be met when the initial motion data (e.g., initial accelerometer data) indicates that the movement (e.g., acceleration) of the device 10 is above an initial acceleration threshold.

[0136] In some embodiments, device 10 may include a user interface (not shown). For example, the user interface may be included in the optical vital signs sensing device 10 itself, or it may be included in an external device such as a smartphone.

[0137] In some embodiments, the processor 28 is configured to generate a signal for creating a notification that the vital signs sensing device is being used incorrectly.

[0138] In this way, when the device 10 is used incorrectly, the user of the device 10 can be alerted so that they can correct the problem, increasing the likelihood of obtaining reliable vital sign measurement results.

[0139] For example, notifications can be published via the user interface.

[0140] In some embodiments, the processor 28 is also configured to receive ambient light data of the environment in which the vital signs sensing device 10 is being used, and wherein the signal for creating a notification is generated based at least in part on the ambient light data.

[0141] Ambient light levels can indicate improper use of the optical vital signs sensing device 10, such as incorrect positioning.

[0142] For example, ambient light levels can indicate that device 10 is incorrectly positioned on the user's skin, thereby reducing the likelihood of performing reliable vital sign measurements.

[0143] In such an embodiment, ambient light data may include light intensity measured by the optical detector assembly 20 (e.g., a first optical detector 22 or a second optical detector 24). For example, if the light intensity is low, this may indicate that the device 10 is positioned on the skin. If the light intensity is high, this may indicate that the device 10 is not correctly positioned on the skin.

[0144] In a non-limiting illustrative example, while performing vital sign measurements on a user, device 10 may have been displaced, exposing the optical detector assembly 20 to high ambient light intensity, such as a high background light level, resulting in a degraded measurement signal quality. In this case, a signal may be generated, and a notification may subsequently be issued to the user, for example, via a user interface.

[0145] In some embodiments, processor 28 may be configured to generate a signal for creating a notification based at least in part on reflection pattern data.

[0146] Reflection pattern data can indicate incorrect use of the optical vital signs sensing device 10. In this way, the likelihood of obtaining reliable optical vital signs measurements can be increased.

[0147] For example, low-quality vital sign measurements performed in reflective mode can indicate incorrect use of the optical vital sign sensing device 10.

[0148] In a non-limiting illustrative example, if the ambient light level at the optical detector assembly 20 is low, indicating that the sensor has been placed on the skin, and the reflective mode signal quality is low, this could indicate to the user that the device 10 needs to be repositioned. Therefore, the processor 28 can generate a signal for creating a notification.

[0149] Alternatively or additionally, signals used to create notifications can be generated based on motion data.

[0150] Alternatively or additionally, the signal used to create the notification may be based on transmission mode motion data and / or transmission mode data.

[0151] In some embodiments, reflectance pattern data and / or transmission pattern data indicate one or more heart rate measurements, blood oxygenation measurements, and / or respiratory measurements.

[0152] In a non-limiting example, reflex pattern data may include one or more heart rate measurements.

[0153] In a non-limiting example, transmission mode data may include one or more heart rate measurements, blood oxygenation measurements, and / or respiratory measurements.

[0154] In a non-limiting example, when the reflection mode is activated, the emitter assembly 12 emits green light, and when the transmission mode is activated, the emitter assembly 12 emits at least one of red light and infrared light.

[0155] Reference Figure 5 The following is a non-illustrative example to describe the operation of the optical vital signs sensing device 10 according to method 100. Figure 5 A flowchart 300 is provided showing a typical use case of the optical vital signs sensing device 10, which is used to monitor the vital signs of an infant.

[0156] In this non-limiting example 300, the optical vital signs sensing device 10 is configured to be placed on the infant's foot. However, it should be noted that the operating principle of the optical vital signs sensing device 10 described in example 300 is equally applicable to the monitoring of any body part, and to the monitoring of adults and children of any age. For example, the same principle applies to a smartwatch 10 placed on an adult's wrist.

[0157] In box 302, the optical vital signs sensor 10 is picked up and placed on the baby's feet, and the baby is placed on a bed. For example, the optical vital signs sensor 10 can be picked up from a docking station where the device 10 is fixed and neither the transmission mode nor the reflection mode is activated.

[0158] In block 302, when picking up device 10 and placing it on the baby's foot, processor 28 can determine whether the movement of device 10 102 meets the initial movement criteria by analyzing initial motion data (such as initial motion data from motion sensor 26). Therefore, if the initial movement criteria are met in block 302, processor 28 can automatically activate reflection mode 104.

[0159] In the immediate period immediately following placing the baby in the crib at box 302, the baby may be restless, for example, the baby may be moving. In this case, device 10 (such as...) Figure 1 The device 10) can perform measurements only in reflection mode, while keeping transmission mode inactive due to the reduced sensitivity of reflection mode to movement.

[0160] In other words, processor 28 can receive motion data 106 indicating the baby's movement. If processor 28 determines that the movement 108 does not meet the movement criteria, for example, because the baby is restless and the movement of device 10 is high, processor 28 can continue to operate in reflection mode, for example, and will not activate transmission mode 110.

[0161] In such an example, processor 28 can continuously receive 106 motion data, allowing processor 28 to activate 110 transmission mode at a later time, for example, if the infant is stationary and the motion criteria are met.

[0162] In block 302, if reliable reflection pattern measurements cannot be obtained, and the ambient light level is low—for example, low light levels at the optical detector assembly 20—indicating that the device is positioned on the skin, then processor 28 can generate a signal to create a notification that the vital signs sensing device is being used incorrectly (e.g., device 10 is being placed incorrectly). That is, processor 28 can generate the signal based on the received ambient light data and reflection pattern data.

[0163] In box 304, the baby falls asleep and then enters a deep sleep state.

[0164] At this point, device 10 can still operate solely in reflection mode. When reflection mode is activated, as described above, processor 28 can continue to receive 106 motion data and reflection mode data. In this way, for example, it is possible to continuously evaluate at regular intervals whether transmission mode can produce reliable results.

[0165] Once the infant is asleep in box 304, the infant's level of movement can be low, for example, low enough to enable reliable transmissive mode measurements. Accordingly, if processor 28 determines that the movement criteria are met, processor 28 can activate transmissive mode 110, and device 10 can begin performing vital sign measurements in transmissive mode.

[0166] Initially, while the transmission mode is activated, the reflection mode can remain activated, allowing vital sign measurements to still be performed in the reflection mode. In this way, if a reliable transmission mode cannot be obtained, measurements can still be obtained in the reflection mode, thus ensuring measurement continuity.

[0167] If reliable vital sign measurements are obtained after activating transmission mode 110 in box 304, then reflection mode 116A can be deactivated. That is, processor 28 can receive transmission mode data (112), determine whether the transmission mode signal quality (114A) meets the minimum signal quality standard for transmission mode, and if it does, then deactivate reflection mode 116A. Alternatively, device 10 can continue to perform measurements simultaneously in both transmission and reflection modes.

[0168] In box 304, if reliable transmission mode measurements cannot be obtained while the reflection mode measurement results are of good quality, the processor 28 can generate a signal based on the reflection mode data to create a notification that the vital signs sensing device 10 has been misused. For example, the device 10 may be mispositioned on the skin.

[0169] In box 306, the baby wakes up.

[0170] For example, once the baby wakes up, the movement of device 10 and the baby can be higher, for example, higher than the movement when the baby is asleep in box 304.

[0171] The processor 28 can now determine whether the movement of the 114B optical vital signs sensing device 10 meets another movement criterion by analyzing the transmitted motion data.

[0172] Accordingly, if a higher movement results in another movement criterion being met, processor 28 may deactivate transmission mode 116B, as the likelihood of obtaining a reliable transmission mode measurement may be lower. If both transmission and reflection modes are active before deactivation of transmission mode 116B, the reflection mode may remain active after deactivation of transmission mode 116B.

[0173] Alternatively, if only the transmission mode is active before deactivating the 116B transmission mode, then the processor may activate the 116C reflection mode if the processor 28 has determined that another moving criterion is met.

[0174] Alternatively, when it is determined that another mobility criterion has been met, the processor 28 may not activate the 116B transmission mode, but may instead activate the 116C reflection mode, so that the transmission mode and the reflection mode are activated simultaneously.

[0175] The optical vital signs sensor 10 can then be removed, and the monitoring session can be terminated.

[0176] It should be noted that Figure 6 Provides control over the above reference Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 4 A flowchart describing the method 100 of the optical vital signs sensing device 10.

[0177] Method 100 includes receiving at least one of 106 motion data and reflection pattern data, wherein the motion data indicates movement of the optical vital signs sensing device 10, and wherein the reflection pattern data is associated with the reflection pattern signal quality of a vital signs measurement performed by the optical vital signs sensing device 10 in a reflection mode; performing at least one of the following: determining, by analyzing the motion data, whether 108 movement meets a motion criterion; determining, by analyzing the reflection pattern data, whether the reflection pattern signal quality of 108 meets a minimum quality criterion for a reflection mode; and activating, 110, a transmission mode of the optical vital signs sensing device 10 if at least one of the motion criterion and the minimum quality criterion for a reflection mode is met.

[0178] Method 100 can be executed using the processor 28 of the aforementioned optical vital signs sensing device 10.

[0179] A computer program is also provided, comprising computer-readable instructions encoding the steps of method 100 according to any embodiment disclosed herein. For example, when the computer program is run on processor 28, the computer program product can cause processor 28 to implement method 100 according to any embodiment discussed herein.

[0180] A processor configured to execute the computer program is also provided.

[0181] A computer program is also provided, comprising computer-readable instructions encoded with the steps of method 100 of any embodiment described herein. For example, when the computer program is run on processor 28, the computer program product can cause processor 28 to implement method 100 according to any embodiment discussed herein.

[0182] As described above, the embodiments utilize processor 28. Processor 28 can be implemented in various ways, using software and / or hardware, to perform a variety of required functions. Processor 28 may, for example, employ one or more microprocessors that can be programmed using software (e.g., microcode) to perform the required functions. However, processor 28 may be implemented with or without a microprocessor, and may also be implemented as a combination of dedicated hardware for performing certain functions and microprocessors (e.g., one or more programmed microprocessors and associated circuitry) for performing other functions.

[0183] Examples of processor 28 components that may be used in various embodiments of the present invention include (but are not limited to) conventional microprocessors, application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), and field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs).

[0184] In various embodiments, the processor or processor 28 may be associated with one or more storage media, such as volatile and non-volatile computer memories, such as RAM, PROM, EPROM, and EEPROM. The storage media may be encoded with one or more programs that, when executed on one or more processors and / or processor 28, perform the required functions. The various storage media may be fixed within the processor or processor 28, or may be transferable, such that one or more programs stored thereon can be loaded into the processor or processor 28.

[0185] By studying the accompanying drawings, the disclosure, and the appended claims, those skilled in the art can understand and implement variations of the disclosed embodiments in practicing the claimed invention. In the claims, the word "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, and the indefinite article "a" or "an" does not exclude a plurality.

[0186] The functions implemented by processor 28 or the processor can be implemented by a single processor or by multiple separate processing units, which together may be considered as a "processor" or as a "processor". Such processing units may be geographically separated from each other in some cases and may communicate with each other in a wired or wireless manner.

[0187] A method is also provided, which includes using a first processor to cause a second processor (e.g., processor 28) to execute a computer program, the computer program including computer-readable instructions encoded with the steps of method 100 in any embodiment disclosed herein. The first processor may be separate from the second processor 28, each processor being a processing system, e.g., a distributed system in which the first processor is located remotely from the second processor.

[0188] A computer program is also provided, comprising computer-readable instructions encoded to execute the steps of method 100 of any embodiment disclosed herein, using a first processor or a second processor (e.g., processor 28). A processor, such as a first processor, is also provided configured to execute the computer program.

[0189] The mere fact that certain measures are described in mutually different dependent claims does not imply that combinations of these measures cannot be used advantageously.

[0190] Computer programs can be stored / distributed on suitable media, such as optical or solid-state media provided with or as part of other hardware, but can also be distributed in other forms, such as via the Internet or other wired or wireless telecommunications systems.

[0191] If the term “suitable” is used in the claims or description, it should be noted that the term “suitable” is intended to be equivalent to the term “configured as.” If the term “arrangement” is used in the claims or description, it should be noted that the term “arrangement” is intended to be equivalent to the term “system,” and vice versa.

[0192] Any reference numerals in the claims should not be construed as limiting the scope.

Claims

1. A method (100), comprising: Receive (106) at least one of motion data and reflection pattern data, wherein the motion data indicates movement of the optical vital signs sensing device, and wherein the reflection pattern data is associated with the reflection pattern signal quality of a vital signs measurement performed by the optical vital signs sensing device in a reflection pattern. Perform at least one of the following: By analyzing the motion data, it is determined whether the movement (108) meets the movement criteria; and By analyzing the reflection mode data, it is determined whether the signal quality of the reflection mode (108) meets the minimum quality standard of the reflection mode. as well as If at least one of the movement criterion and the minimum quality criterion of the reflection mode is met, the transmission mode of the optical vital signs sensing device is activated (110).

2. The method (100) according to claim 1, wherein receiving (106) includes receiving the motion data and the reflection mode data, and determining (108) includes determining whether the motion meets the motion criterion and whether the reflection mode signal quality meets the reflection mode minimum signal criterion, and wherein activating (110) the transmission mode is conditional on the motion criterion and the reflection mode minimum quality criterion being met.

3. The method (100) according to claim 1 or 2 further includes receiving (112) transmission mode data, wherein the transmission mode data is associated with the transmission mode signal quality of a vital sign measurement performed by the optical vital sign sensing device in the transmission mode.

4. The method (100) according to claim 3, further comprising: The transmission mode signal quality (114A) is determined by analyzing the transmission mode data to see if it meets the minimum quality standard for transmission modes. as well as If the minimum quality criterion of the transmission mode is met, then the reflection mode (116A) is deactivated.

5. The method (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising: The method (100) determines, by analyzing motion data in the transmission mode, whether the movement of the optical vital signs sensing device when the transmission mode is activated (114B) satisfies another movement criterion, and the method (100) further includes at least one of the following: If the other movement criterion is met, then the transmission mode (116B) is deactivated; and If the other movement criterion is met, then the reflection mode (116C) is activated.

6. The method (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, further comprising: The initial motion data is analyzed to determine whether the movement of the optical vital signs sensing device (102) in the non-transmission mode and the non-reflection mode meets the initial movement criteria. as well as If the initial movement criterion is met, then at least one of the reflection mode and the transmission mode is activated (104).

7. The method (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 6 further includes generating a signal for creating a notification that the vital signs sensing device is being used incorrectly.

8. The method of claim 7, further comprising receiving ambient light data of the environment in which the vital signs sensing device is being used, and wherein the signal for generating the notification is based at least in part on the ambient light data.

9. A computer program comprising computer-readable instructions encoding the steps of the method according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

10. A processor (28) configured to execute the computer program of claim 9 to perform the method of any one of claims 1 to 8.

11. An optical vital signs sensing device (10), comprising: Optical transmitter assembly (12); as well as An optical detector assembly (20) includes a first optical detector (22); The optical vital signs sensing device (10) is configured to perform vital signs measurement, at least in a transmission mode, when the device is disposed on a body part, in which light from the optical transmitter assembly (12) is transmitted through the body part to reach the first optical detector (22), characterized in that the optical vital signs sensing device (10) includes a processor (28) according to claim 10.

12. The optical vital signs sensing device (10) of claim 11, wherein the optical detector assembly (20) includes a second optical detector (24), and wherein the optical vital signs sensing device (10) is configured to perform vital signs measurement on the body part in a reflection mode, wherein light from the optical emitter assembly (12) is emitted into the body part and reflected from the body part to the second optical detector (24).

13. A method comprising using a first processor to cause a second processor to execute a computer program, said computer program comprising computer-readable instructions encoded with respect to the steps of the method according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

14. A computer program comprising computer-readable instructions encoded with respect to the steps of the method of claim 13.

15. A processor configured to execute the computer program of claim 14 to perform the method of claim 13.

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