Printed circuit board (PCB) for a clip to attach to an absorbent article and a clip to attach to an absorbent article

Abstract

The invention relates to a PCB (2) for a clip (1) for attachment to an absorbent article (4), comprising a battery module (26), an impedance and electrochemical sensing module (21), a gas sensing module (22), a motion and position sensing module (23), and a temperature sensing module (24) to obtain a first, second, third, and fourth measurement signal, and a main control unit (29) to control the modules (21, 22, 23, 24) and to determine an output based on the measurement signals, the main control unit (29) comprising a communication unit to exchange the measurement signals and / or output with an external device and / or server by means of an RF module, gateway, and WPAN protocol, and / or serial data transmission.The PCB (2) comprises conductive pads (31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36), with the first and second conductive pads (31, 32) for impedance measurement, the third and fourth conductive pads (33, 34) for charging the battery module (26), the first and fifth conductive pads (31, 35) for detecting the attachment of the absorbent article (4), and the fifth and sixth conductive pads (35, 36) for serial data transmission and impedance measurement, or comprises conductive pads (31, 32, 33, 34) with the first and second conductive pads (31, 32) for impedance measurement, attachment detection, and serial data transmission, and the third and fourth conductive pads (33, 34) for charging. The invention further relates to a clip (1) with the PCB (2).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a printed circuit board (PCB) for a clip for attachment to an absorbent article. It further relates to a clip for attachment to an absorbent article, which comprises the printed circuit board according to the invention.

[0002] One of the greatest challenges facing modern societies in the coming years is the aging of their populations. The number of caregivers and elderly people in nursing homes will become increasingly unbalanced, meaning fewer caregivers will be responsible for more residents, which presents several difficulties. Even today, caregivers work to a tight schedule, which not only creates a heavy workload but also makes it difficult to prioritize urgent matters. Furthermore, caregivers are required to look after a certain number of residents per shift, making efficient time management all the more crucial.

[0003] In home care, family caregivers face similar challenges and must care for a person in need of care in addition to their daily tasks such as work, other family members, and other obligations. This puts them under considerable time pressure and exposes them to a high level of stress. Infant care is also a time-consuming task for private households and parents or caregivers.

[0004] There are, among other things, two circumstances that necessitate the supply of absorbent products. Firstly, incontinence caused by illnesses, which can have many different causes, and secondly, the situation in infant care related to the child's lack of independent control over their bodily functions.

[0005] Incontinence is a condition characterized by the uncontrolled leakage of natural substances from the bladder and / or bowel. Urinary incontinence refers to the loss of bladder control, leading to involuntary or uncontrolled urination. While some forms of incontinence, particularly urinary / bladder incontinence, are relatively common, the condition typically affects older and frail individuals and is even more prevalent in women.

[0006] Another acute problem in nursing homes is night shifts, one of the biggest challenges being the large size of the facility and the reduced number of available staff during these shifts. This also makes the physical strain on nursing staff a problem.

[0007] Furthermore, due to staff shortages, it is common for caregivers to have to help out others or be temporarily hired from external sources. In such cases, it is important to ensure rapid training and thus a smooth integration into the nursing home's workflow.

[0008] There remains a need to promote the workflows in nursing and the goal of preventing illness and injury to the person being cared for within these workflows by supporting the exchange management of absorbent items.

[0009] US 2014 / 0296808A1 describes a capacitive sensor system for detecting moisture in absorbent articles such as diapers. The sensor device can be integrated into the product as a flexible element or attached externally. Temperature, gases, pH value, or biomarkers can also be detected.

[0010] US Patent 11,020,285 B1 describes a modular housing system with a clip mechanism that can be attached to special clothing and includes various sensors for monitoring health conditions, particularly in people requiring care. The system records, among other things, temperature, skin conductance, and body orientation, while simultaneously communicating with external devices via Bluetooth.

[0011] US 2019 / 0336353A1 describes a sensor system for monitoring the basic needs of infants, particularly feeding, sleep, and elimination. The device can be attached to disposable diapers and includes sensors and cameras that send data to a software platform for further processing.

[0012] US 2023 / 0165729A1 describes a detection device for detecting excretion events in disposable absorbent products, particularly diapers. The device comprises a housing with a rotating clip that mechanically connects securely to the product to prevent unintentional detachment.

[0013] US 2022 / 0175590A1 describes absorbent products with integrated sensors, specifically designed to prevent accidental ingestion. The sensors can detect various physiological parameters such as temperature, pH, or humidity and can be attached to the product both internally and externally.

[0014] Therefore, one objective of the present disclosure is to overcome or reduce at least some of the aforementioned problems and to provide a printed circuit board (PCB) for a clip for attachment to an absorbent article, which enables comprehensive monitoring and surveillance of the persons wearing the absorbent article.

[0015] The present problem is solved by the subject matter of the independent claims. Advantageous embodiments of the invention also result from the dependent claims.

[0016] A first aspect of the disclosure relates to a printed circuit board (PCB) for a clip for attachment to an absorbent article. The PCB includes a battery module configured to provide power for operation of the PCB, an impedance and electrochemical sensing module configured to receive a first measurement signal for moisture and substance measurement, and a gas sensing module configured to receive a second measurement signal for substance measurement. The PCB further includes a motion and position sensing module configured to receive a third measurement signal for motion and position measurement, and a temperature sensing module configured to receive a fourth measurement signal for moisture and substance measurement.Furthermore, the circuit board includes a main control unit configured to control the operation of the modules for receiving the measurement signals, to sample and process the received measurement signals from the acquisition modules, and to determine an output based on the sampled measurement signals, wherein the main control unit includes a communication unit configured to exchange the measurement signals and / or the determined output with an external device and / or a server using a high-frequency module, RF module, gateway, and a wireless personal network transmission protocol, WPAN protocol, and / or using serial data transmission and a universal asynchronous receiver-transmitter.The circuit board further includes a set of conductive pads, with a first and a second conductive pad for impedance measurement, a third and a fourth conductive pad for charging the battery module, the first and a fifth conductive pad for detecting the attachment of the absorbent article with an external measuring device, and the fifth and a sixth conductive pad for serial data transmission with the external device and / or the server and additionally for impedance measurement by means of four-wire measurement.

[0017] Another aspect of the disclosure relates to a printed circuit board (PCB) for a clip for attachment to an absorbent article. The PCB includes a battery module configured to provide power for operation of the PCB, an impedance and electrochemical sensing module configured to receive a first measurement signal for moisture and substance measurement, and a gas sensing module configured to receive a second measurement signal for substance measurement. The PCB further includes a motion and position sensing module configured to receive a third measurement signal for motion and position measurement, and a temperature sensing module configured to receive a fourth measurement signal for moisture and substance measurement.Furthermore, the circuit board includes a main control unit configured to control the operation of the modules for receiving the measurement signals, to sample and process the received measurement signals from the acquisition modules, and to determine an output based on the sampled measurement signals, wherein the main control unit includes a communication unit configured to exchange the measurement signals and / or the determined output with an external device and / or a server using a high-frequency module, RF module, gateway, and a wireless personal network transmission protocol, WPAN protocol, and / or using serial data transmission and a universal asynchronous receiver-transmitter.The circuit board further includes a set of conductive pads with a first and a second conductive pad for impedance measurement, for detecting the attachment of the absorbent article with an external measuring device and for serial data transmission with the external device and / or the server, and a third and a fourth conductive pad for charging the battery module.

[0018] In other words, based on the measurement signals from the acquisition modules, the main control unit can be configured to derive various conclusions. The first through fourth measurement signals each contain measured values ​​that can be used to determine a specific property. The first measurement signal includes information about moisture and substances within the absorbent article; the second measurement signal includes information about substances within the absorbent article; the third measurement signal includes information about the movement and position of the absorbent article, preferably of a person wearing the absorbent article; and the fourth measurement signal includes information about the temperature within the absorbent article. The corresponding measurement signals are processed by the main control unit using suitable algorithms to obtain the relevant information.The main control unit can determine moisture and a substance (feces) to which the absorbent article is exposed by processing the first measurement signal. The main control unit can determine substances by processing the second measurement signal. The main control unit can determine the movements and positions of the absorbent article by processing the third measurement signal. The main control unit can be configured to determine current temperatures for moisture and substance measurement by processing the fourth measurement signal. The main control unit can be configured to control the modules for performing operations, such as measuring the measurement signals to determine related properties based on the acquired signals.The main control unit is designed to send and receive the first to fourth measurement signals from the acquisition modules and to process these signals to derive information. The communication unit is designed to exchange data, measurement signals, and / or the determined output via a gateway of an external device and / or a server using the RF module, a gateway, and a wireless personal network access (WPAN) protocol, such as the IEEE 802.15 protocol, and / or using serial data transmission.

[0019] Absorbent products include hygiene and sanitary items such as (disposable) diapers, sanitary napkins, panty liners, incontinence pads, and sweat wipes. These can be used by humans as well as animals, such as pets. The absorbent product soaks up the fluid released by the wearer, such as liquid excretions and bodily fluids. Absorbent products have a particularly broad range of applications as incontinence products, especially in the form of diapers for adults and children. Absorbent products also include semi-finished products that are processed into a final product in further manufacturing steps.

[0020] This provides a standardized system that can be connected to an absorbent item using a suitable clip. When connected, it allows for the recording and analysis of a large number of important parameters, providing a comprehensive picture of the person wearing the absorbent item.

[0021] According to another embodiment, the circuit board preferably includes a pressure sensing module configured to receive a fifth measurement signal for fall detection, pressure sore detection, and decubitus ulcer detection. The main control unit can be configured to determine the applied force, movements, and positions of the absorbent item by processing the fifth measurement signal.

[0022] According to a further embodiment, the printed circuit board can be electrically and signal-conducting connected to the external device for exchanging the measurement signals and / or the determined output with the external device, wherein the main control unit is configured to assign the printed circuit board to the external device based on the presence of the electrical and signal-conducting connection of the printed circuit board to the external device.

[0023] Preferably, the printed circuit board is electrically and signal-conducting connectable to a plurality of external devices for the exchange of measurement signals and / or the determined output with the external devices, wherein the main control unit is configured to assign the printed circuit board to one of the plurality of external devices, based on the presence of an instantaneous electrical and signal-conducting connection of the printed circuit board to that one of the plurality of external devices.Preferably, the main control unit is configured to cancel the assignment of the printed circuit board (PCB) to one of the plurality of external devices based on the presence of a new electrical and signal-conducting connection between the PCB and another of the plurality of external devices, and to assign the PCB to the other of the plurality of external devices based on the presence of this new electrical and signal-conducting connection. Preferably, the main control unit is configured to generate a variable identifier based on the currently connected external device. In other words, the PCB can be connected to an external device and is assigned to it by the main control unit when the connection is established.If the circuit board is connected to a different external device at a later time, the previous assignment is cancelled and, once the connection to the other external device is established, it is assigned to that device by the main control unit.

[0024] Preferably, the circuit board is electrically and signal-conductively connectable to a docking station; in other words, the external device is preferably the docking station. The docking station, or each of the multiple docking stations, is preferably assigned to exactly one person requiring care who wears the absorbent item, with each person requiring care having their own personal docking station. The circuit board itself is not permanently assigned to a specific person requiring care. The circuit board is assigned to a person requiring care by connecting it to one of the multiple (personal) docking stations. Therefore, the circuit board is preferably always assigned to the person requiring care in whose docking station it was last inserted. This makes the circuit board more flexible and the workflow less restrictive because the circuit boards are interchangeable.

[0025] According to the invention, the printed circuit board (PCB) comprises a battery module configured to provide energy for the operation of the PCB. According to another embodiment, the PCB comprises a battery management module configured to connect the PCB to the battery module, implement a second protective layer for the battery module, collect information about the battery module, manage the charging and discharging of the battery module, and distribute or provide the energy for operation at an operating voltage. The PCB also includes a power management module configured to interact with the charging voltage provided by an external power source or charger to charge the battery module and to implement a first protective layer for the PCB during charging of the battery module at a gateway of the external power source.The components of the printed circuit board (PCB) require a power source, which is provided by the battery module. The battery management module (BMS) is configured to connect the PCB to the battery module and protect the battery module from overvoltage. It also records information such as voltage, current, temperature, and state of charge (SOC). Furthermore, the BMS controls the power supply to the PCB components at an operating voltage. The BMS interacts with the charging voltage provided by the external power source and protects the PCB by implementing an additional protective layer at the gateway of the external power source during battery module charging.

[0026] According to another embodiment, the battery module is configured to sample the fourth measurement signal from the temperature sensing module for battery management. The main control unit can be configured to determine current temperatures for battery management by processing the fourth measurement signal.

[0027] According to another embodiment, the main control unit is arranged on a top side of the circuit board in a central area in a first direction, e.g. an X-axis, and near a bottom edge of the circuit board, e.g. in an end area in a second direction, e.g. a Y-axis, which is perpendicular to the first direction.

[0028] According to another embodiment, the energy management module is arranged on a top surface of the printed circuit board in a perimeter region in a first direction, e.g., an X-axis, and near an upper edge of the printed circuit board, e.g., in an end region in a second direction, e.g., a Y-axis perpendicular to the first direction; the battery management module is arranged on a top surface of the printed circuit board in a perimeter region in a first direction, e.g., an X-axis, and near an upper edge of the printed circuit board, e.g., in an end region in a second direction, e.g., a Y-axis perpendicular to the first direction; a battery input connector of the battery management module is located on a bottom surface of the printed circuit board opposite the battery management module in a perimeter region in a first direction, e.g., an X-axis, and near an upper edge of the printed circuit board, e.g., in an end region in a second direction, e.g., a Y-axis perpendicular to the first direction.The main control unit is arranged along a Y-axis perpendicular to the first direction, and / or the impedance and electrochemical sensing module is located on a top-side surface of the circuit board in a central area. This arrangement of the main control unit allows for optimized layout and routing, as well as adherence to RF design best practices. The power management module is preferably located adjacent to the positive terminal of the charging pads (third pad). The battery management module is positioned closer to the battery input connector. The impedance and electrochemical sensing module is positioned as close as possible to the pads to minimize analog signal noise.

[0029] The detection modules can be placed at different locations on the PCB to optimize their specific functions.

[0030] According to another embodiment, the energy management module includes a voltage monitor configured to reset the device when required, if it is connected to the gateway of the external power source.

[0031] According to another embodiment, the battery management module comprises a power indicator for implementing the second layer of protection and for reading the battery module characteristics, a battery module charger configured to charge the battery module when the device is connected to the external power source, and / or a voltage regulator for providing the operating voltage, wherein the voltage regulator includes a digitally controlled low-dropout regulator (LDO). The battery module charger controls the charging of the battery when the circuit board is connected to the external power source. An LDO is used instead of a switching power supply (MPS) because the regulated voltage provided by an LDO is typically noisy, which is essential for accurate analog readings.This LDO is capable of supplying a current of 150 mA, which easily exceeds the current requirements of the entire system, and it features integrated overcurrent protection with a disabling function. The battery module charger implements constant current / constant voltage (CC / CV) charging with a JEITA temperature profile. The charging voltage is preferably 4.2 V, and the current is preferably 20 mA (for normal charging) and preferably 2 mA for pre-charging (this corresponds to battery manufacturers' recommendations).

[0032] According to one embodiment, the circuit board includes a memory that stores instructions which, when executed by a processor of the main control unit, cause the main control unit to control the operation of the modules to obtain the measurement signals, to sample (send and receive) the received measurement signals from the modules and process them, to control the other operations of the modules, and to determine the output based on the sampled measurement signals, and to control the communication unit to exchange the measurement signals and / or the determined output with an external device and / or a server using a high-frequency (RF) module, a gateway, and a wireless personal network transmission protocol (WPAN), and / or using serial data transmission and a universal asynchronous receiver-transmitter.The included commands, or in other words, software components, comprise an incontinence algorithm, a repositioning algorithm, a zone management algorithm, and a fall detection algorithm, which are designed to analyze and process the captured measurement signals and data for their specific purposes.

[0033] According to another embodiment, the battery module is a lithium-polymer battery with a nominal capacity of 80 mAh and a nominal voltage of 3.8 V. The use of a secondary cell (rechargeable battery) is chosen in this system because the clip is a multi-purpose device. The battery can include its own protection system capable of detecting and responding to various types of failure. The charging current is limited to 20 mA to extend the battery's lifespan. The circuit board according to the invention, which uses this battery, is capable of achieving a continuous operating time of 24 hours. This battery also provides its own temperature measurement, which can be made available to the energy management module. The battery interacts directly with the energy management module.

[0034] According to one embodiment, the main control unit is further configured to determine real-time and / or intermediate information about the moisture level of the absorbent article as output, based on the first measurement signal received from the impedance and electrochemical sensing modules. Accordingly, the main control unit determines the states of the absorbent article based on the corresponding measurement signals recorded by the respective sensing modules.

[0035] According to one embodiment, the main control unit is further configured to determine real-time and / or intermediate information about the moisture level of the absorbent article as output, based on the fourth measurement signal received from the temperature sensing module. The temperature improves the accuracy of the output, since different liquids have different temperatures due to their origin.

[0036] According to another embodiment, the main control unit is further configured to determine, based on the acquired real-time and / or intermediate information about the moisture level of the absorbent item, a need to change the absorbent item as an output. In incontinence care, it is common for caregivers to manually check the fill level of absorbent items such as diapers, sometimes requiring partial removal of the absorbent item. This check often needs to be performed at specific intervals and also at night while the person wearing the absorbent item is asleep. This method is invasive because it can disturb the person's sleep. Existing incontinence products that use color-changing indicators only provide a basic binary status (wet or dry) and do not provide real-time or real-time and / or intermediate information about the fill level.

[0037] According to one embodiment, the main control unit is further configured to determine substances in the absorbent article as an output, based on the second measurement signal received from the gas detection module. Accordingly, the main control unit determines the states of the absorbent article based on the respective measurement signals recorded by the corresponding detection modules.

[0038] According to one embodiment, the main control unit is further configured to determine the substances in the absorbent article as output, based on the first measurement signal received from the impedance and electrochemical detection module.

[0039] According to one embodiment, the main control unit is further configured to determine the substances in the absorbent article as output, based on the fourth measurement signal received from the temperature sensing module. The temperature improves the accuracy of the output, since different substances have different temperatures due to their origin.

[0040] According to another embodiment, the main control unit is further configured to determine, based on the substances detected in the absorbent article, a need to change the absorbent article as an output.

[0041] According to one embodiment, the main control unit is further configured to determine the position, movement, and corresponding time of the absorbent article as output based on the third measurement signal received from the motion and position detection module. Accordingly, the main control unit determines the states of the absorbent article based on the corresponding measurement signals recorded by the respective detection modules.

[0042] According to another embodiment, the main control unit is further configured to determine, based on the detected position, movement, and corresponding time, the need to reposition the person wearing the absorbent item. Repositioning to prevent pressure ulcers is usually performed manually by caregivers or with the aid of specialized equipment. However, manual repositioning is prone to human error and can be inconsistent. Automated systems, such as pressure-relieving mattresses or beds, adjust pressure using air or motorized mechanisms, but are often expensive and bulky, limiting their use in some care situations.

[0043] According to another embodiment, the main control unit is further configured to detect a fall event of a person wearing the absorbent item based on the determined position, movement, and corresponding time. Conventional fall detection solutions generally involve wearable devices such as smartwatches or pendants, which may not be fully integrated into a care management system. While these devices can detect falls, they lack the necessary integration to provide a complete care solution. One disadvantage of using a smartwatch for fall detection is the occurrence of false positives, as an arm has more degrees of freedom than a torso.

[0044] According to another embodiment, the main control unit is further configured to detect when a person wearing the absorbent article leaves a predefined safety zone based on their determined position, movement, and corresponding time. Conventional zone management, such as monitoring whether a patient has left a specific safety area, often relies on manual checks or simple electronic monitoring systems.

[0045] The methods described according to the prior art may lack real-time capabilities and integration with other care management tools, leading to inefficiencies and potential safety issues. The circuit board according to the invention is helpful when patients have illnesses or injuries such as incontinence and pressure ulcers. The system supports non-medical applications for care and administration, such as fall detection and zone management, as well as applications such as incontinence management and repositioning assistance. This optimizes, facilitates, and improves the work of nursing staff and the comfort of the person receiving care. The circuit board according to the invention supports the benefits of nursing workflows and incorporates medical features for the prevention of illnesses and injuries related to the patient's condition, in order to maintain a certain level of quality of life.It reduces disruption in monitoring the fill level of the absorbent item, decreases the number of absorbent item changes by avoiding unnecessary replacements, and shortens the time spent with fully filled absorbent items. The system offers 24 / 7 availability and real-time monitoring within a defined network area, a state-of-the-art digital system compatible with consumer standards for mobile devices and featuring advanced user interaction, safe and biocompatible performance with no skin contact, a defined correlation between fill level and impedance, and a robust connection to the clip. The circuit board provides continuous real-time monitoring of critical factors such as absorbent item fill levels, body position, and alerts if a patient leaves the safety zone.This capability allows caregivers to receive immediate notifications when conditions change, enabling them to respond promptly and effectively. This real-time data improves decision-making and helps prevent potential problems before they escalate. The circuit board consolidates various monitoring functions, such as incontinence management, fall detection, repositioning assistance, and zone management, into a single, unified platform. This integration reduces the need for multiple separate devices and simplifies care management and patient monitoring. By monitoring tasks, the frequency of manual checks is reduced. This efficiency not only saves valuable caregiver time but also reduces their physical and mental strain.

[0046] Real-time monitoring minimizes human error and ensures tasks are performed consistently and accurately. By optimizing the use of incontinence products and reducing unnecessary diaper changes, this system helps manage and potentially lower the costs associated with incontinence products. These cost savings are achieved through more efficient resource utilization and improved inventory management. With features such as real-time fall detection and zone management, the circuit board enhances patient safety by immediately alerting staff if a patient falls or leaves a designated safety zone. This timely response allows caregivers to act quickly, reducing the risk of injury and ensuring overall patient safety.Digital incontinence monitoring, which can inform nursing staff in real time about the fill level or status of an absorbent item for a person requiring care or a patient with urinary and / or fecal incontinence, can support the medical purpose and prevent incontinence-related complications such as skin irritation, skin infections, bedsores, urinary tract infections, bacterial growth, dermatitis, eczema, and other damage. It can support the medical use of the absorbent item (adult diaper as a medical device), support and optimize diaper changing intervals, avoid long periods with full diapers on the body, reduce the risk of skin damage from prolonged contact with urine or stool, and prevent leakage of an absorbent item.The digital assistance system for digital incontinence monitoring can be used in the short, medium, and long term. The repositioning aid for pressure ulcer prevention provides nursing staff with real-time information about the body and lying position of a patient at risk of or already suffering from pressure ulcers. This information, displayed over the past and current periods of a particular body or lying position, helps prevent pressure ulcers. It allows nursing staff to optimize repositioning intervals, reducing pressure on specific body areas and promoting wound healing (preventing further damage). This is because nursing staff can ensure that body parts are exposed to minimal pressure and friction. The digital assistance system within the repositioning aid for pressure ulcer prevention can be used in the short, medium, and long term.Fall detection, which informs caregivers in real time if a resident or patient has fallen, can prevent further illnesses, injuries, or suffering, and allows caregivers to react immediately. The digital assistance system for fall detection can be used in the short, medium, and long term. Zone management, which informs caregivers in real time if a resident or patient has left a predefined safety zone (e.g., a ward or the building of a nursing home), can prevent further illnesses, injuries, diseases, or a lack of medical services (e.g., medication supply), allows caregivers to react immediately, avoids searching for a resident or patient, and detects wandering, especially in residents or patients with dementia or cognitive impairments.The digital assistance system within the framework of zone management can be used in the short, medium and long term.

[0047] According to another embodiment, the impedance and electrochemical sensing module comprises a digital-to-analog converter configured to receive and read the analog signals provided by the other modules, external modules, and / or an external measuring device, and / or the motion and position sensing module comprises three orthogonal accelerometers (translation sensors) for detecting translational motion in the x, y, and z axes and three orthogonal gyroscopic sensors for detecting rotational motion (circular motion) in the x, y, and z axes. The digital-to-analog converter is an analog front end (AFE) and is responsible for reading the provided analog signals and ultimately for the impedance measurement. This component is a single-component solution for reading the bioimpedance and providing all the necessary signals for the measurement.In other words, the motion and position detection module includes an inertial measurement unit (IMU), an electronic device that measures and reports the specific force, angular velocity, and orientation of an element using a combination of accelerometers and gyroscopes. The IMU monitors the position and movement of a person wearing the absorbent item to which the circuit board is attached. The supply voltage for both detection modules is the operating voltage.

[0048] The external measuring device can be a moisture sensor strip comprising two interdigital electrodes (IDEs) printed with conductive ink onto a polymer substrate suitable for moisture measurement. The external measuring device is understood to include at least the components that initially acquire the measurement signal. This can be generally referred to as the measuring sensor, although not a sensor in the literal sense. In other words, it refers to the measuring device that, through the underlying measurement method, acquires the desired measured quantity. Furthermore, the sensor may also include additional components, such as those for processing the measurement signal.

[0049] According to another embodiment, the main control unit and each of the modules, with the exception of the impedance and electrochemical sensing modules, are configured to communicate directly with each other via digital communication, preferably using an integrated circuit protocol (I2C).

[0050] According to another embodiment, the main control unit and the impedance and electrochemical sensing module are configured to communicate directly with each other via digital communication, preferably via an SPI protocol.

[0051] According to another embodiment, the main control unit is configured to control the communication unit in such a way that it transmits the received measurement signals and / or the determined output, e.g., real-time data, to the external device and / or the server. In this way, the nursing staff, who, for example, use a corresponding receiving external device, can be informed about the results obtained and take appropriate action.

[0052] According to another embodiment, the impedance and electrochemical detection module can be electrically connected to an external measuring device, preferably the moisture sensor strip. This external measuring device can then be a suitable sensor that provides an input for the impedance and electrochemical detection module.

[0053] According to another embodiment, the circuit board further comprises a set of conductive pads for electrical connection to the external power source, an external measuring instrument, the external device, for serial data transmission (e.g., external serial communication), and / or for electrical connection to the impedance and electrochemical sensing module and / or the main control unit. For example, an external sensor can be connected via the pads to serve as an input for the impedance and electrochemical sensing module. The pads can also be used to charge the battery module or to transmit the measurement signals to other devices, as well as the determined output. Updates can also be performed via the pads on the circuit board. Furthermore, the pads can be used to detect a connection to the absorbent article.In other words, the pads have a diverse function, as they can be the input for the impedance and electrochemical sensing module, part of a detection circuit for an external measuring instrument, and used for external serial communication.

[0054] According to another embodiment, the conductive pads are electrically connectable to pogo pins in a housing of the clip, which can be connected to the external power source, the external measuring instrument embedded in the absorbent article, and / or the external device. The number of pogo pins preferably corresponds to the number of conductive pads.

[0055] According to another embodiment, the number of conductive pads is 4, with the set of pads comprising a first, second, third, and fourth conductive pad, or 6, with the set of pads comprising a first, second, third, fourth, fifth, and sixth conductive pad. For example, in precision impedance measurement using an external measuring device in the form of a sensor strip with two electrodes, four pads are typically required, resulting in a total of six pads, which is known as four-wire measurement or Kelvin measurement. The remaining two conductive pads are used for charging. The main objective is to reduce measurement errors for high accuracy. One problem with impedance measurement is that the cables across which an impedance is measured also have their own impedance, which interferes with the measurement. Here, two separate cables at each contact point measure voltages directly across the unknown impedance.Knowing the current and applied voltage, including their magnitude and phase shift, allows the complex impedance to be derived (the real part refers to the ohmic resistance, the imaginary part to the electrical capacitance). An additional voltage measurement across each pad of the unknown impedance can be used to eliminate the impedance characteristics of the cables. In principle, the number of pads to be measured can be reduced from two pairs to just two, resulting in four pads. Since a single pad does not contribute significantly to the impedance, it is sufficient to connect each pair of cables to a single pad. It is also possible to use two pairs of pads connected to a sensor strip, with all four pads, or alternatively just two, being responsible for the impedance measurement.Simultaneously, it is possible to use only 2 pads for measuring and detecting absorbent items by simply measuring the impedance and comparing it to a threshold value. 2 out of 6 or 2 out of 4 pads can be used for charging and / or detection when the circuit board is inserted into a docking station, e.g., for charging when connected to an external power source, or for serial data transmission, e.g., for debugging or flashing firmware.

[0056] According to the invention, the circuit board according to the first aspect further comprises a set of conductive pads, with a first and a second conductive pad for impedance measurement, e.g., by electrical connection to the external measuring device; a third and a fourth conductive pad for charging, e.g., by electrical connection to the external power source; the first and a fifth conductive pad for detecting the attachment of the absorbent article with an external measuring device, e.g., by electrical connection to the main control unit and the impedance and electrochemical sensing module; and the fifth and a sixth conductive pad for serial data transmission, e.g., by electrical connection to the external device, e.g., by electrical connection to the main control unit and the impedance and electrochemical sensing module, and / or additionally for impedance measurement using a four-pole probe, e.g.,through electrical connection with the external measuring device.

[0057] According to the invention, the printed circuit board further comprises a set of conductive pads, with a first and a second conductive pad for impedance measurement, e.g. by electrical connection with the external measuring device, for detecting the attachment of the absorbent article with external measuring device, e.g. by electrical connection with the external measuring device, and for serial data transmission, e.g. by electrical connection with the external device, and a third and a fourth conductive pad for charging, e.g. by electrical connection with the external power source.

[0058] According to a further embodiment, the impedance and electrochemical detection module is configured to inject a measuring current into a conductor track of the external measuring device via the first conductive pad and to detect a resulting current from the conductor track of the external measuring device via the second conductive pad, and / or to generate sinusoidal voltages with different frequencies, apply these to an electrode, e.g., a driver electrode, of an electrically connected moisture sensor strip as an external measuring device via the first conductive pad, and measure a resulting signal at another electrode, e.g., a sensor electrode, of the moisture sensor strip via the second conductive pad. This measuring method is dielectric spectroscopy, which is preferably used as a suitable measuring method.This method involves observing the magnitude and phase shift between an applied sinusoidal voltage and a measured current. This allows for the separation of the conductive (real) and capacitive (imaginary) components of the impedance. Furthermore, a four-wire measurement, as described above, increases the accuracy of the impedance measurements. For each frequency step, the frequency-dependent capacitance is calculated from the voltage and current amplitudes and the phase shift between them. This is equivalent to measuring the complex impedance and calculating the capacitance from the imaginary part. The real part (ohmic resistance) is not used. The frequency-dependent capacitance is fitted to a power law, and a value called the capacitance can be calculated from the fitting coefficients. Power-law fitting is also used for noise reduction.

[0059] The described measurement methods with the pads are carried out when there is an electrical connection between the corresponding pads and the external measuring instrument, i.e. when the circuit board is attached with or without a clip to the absorbent article, which in turn contains the corresponding external measuring instrument, e.g. embedded.

[0060] In another embodiment, the number of conductive pads is 6, and the impedance and electrochemical sensing module is configured to measure a voltage across the fifth and sixth conductive pads. This enables the four-wire measurement or Kelvin measurement described above.

[0061] According to another embodiment, the number of conductive pads is 6, and the main control unit is configured to detect the attachment of the absorbent item to the circuit board using an external measuring device. This detection is achieved by electrically connecting the external measuring device to the first and fifth conductive pads. The detection of the absorbent item using external measuring devices functions as follows: A first resistor is connected to one output of the main control unit and the fifth pad, and a second resistor is connected to another output of the main control unit and the first pad.When the output connected to the first resistor is pulled high (supply voltage) and the other output, connected to the second resistor, is pulled low (ground), a known resistance exists between the fifth pad and the first pad when the sensor strip is connected. Current then flows through the first resistor, the sensor strip, and the second resistor to ground, creating a voltage divider. The voltage at the junction where the first resistor, the fifth pad, and a third resistor are connected falls below the supply voltage and is compared to a fixed reference value by an internal comparator in the main control unit, which is connected to the third resistor. If the voltage falls below the fixed reference value, the main control unit is switched off to initiate the tasks associated with impedance measurement.This method detects the absorbent item and also helps prevent incorrect placement. A break function is a feature of the main control unit. In other words, the main control unit is designed to break when a condition is met. A condition is preferably a change in the voltage of a pad. When the condition is met, the main control unit is designed to initiate or control a priority operation. This operation could be an impedance measurement for humidity measurement. This is intended to respond to events that require rapid handling.In other words, the main control unit is configured based on a voltage divider formed by the fifth pad and the first pad, as well as by a first resistor connected to one output of the main control unit and the fifth pad, by an external measuring device connected to the first pad, and by a second resistor connected to another output of the main control unit and the first pad, to detect the attachment of the absorbent article with an external measuring device and, when the attachment is detected, to interrupt the control of the impedance and electrochemical sensing module in order to obtain the first measurement signal for moisture and substance measurement.

[0062] According to another embodiment, the number of conductive pads is 4, and the main control unit is configured to control serial data transmission, e.g., external serial communication, using the first conductive pad (and the second conductive pad); or the number of conductive pads is 6, and the main control unit is configured to control serial data transmission, e.g., external serial communication, using the fifth conductive pad and the sixth conductive pad. External communication functions only when no absorbent item is connected and is intended for operation with the gateway of the communication unit. The protocol used is UART.

[0063] According to another embodiment, the energy management module is configured to control the charging voltage supplied by the external power source via the third conductive pad (5V) and the fourth conductive pad (GND) when connected to the external power source. In other words, the circuit board is connected to the external power source via two pads.

[0064] According to another embodiment, the charging voltage is 4.5 to 5.5 V. In other words, the permissible voltage in these pads is 4.5 to 5.5 V. This is a suitable voltage for charging the battery module.

[0065] According to another embodiment, the pads are arranged horizontally, vertically, and / or in a matrix configuration. The position of the pads on the circuit board is a requirement resulting from the housing design and the dimensions of the external measuring instrument.

[0066] According to another embodiment, the conductive pads are protected against electrostatic discharges (ESD) by diodes for suppressing transient voltages (TVS).

[0067] According to another embodiment, the energy management module is configured to provide a signal to the main control unit to detect whether the circuit board is electrically connected to the external power source or not.

[0068] According to another embodiment, the operating voltage of the circuit board is 3 V. This is an operating voltage such as is required for the operation of the AFE, and all other peripheral devices and the main control unit can be operated at the same voltage, thus avoiding multiple voltage domains.

[0069] A second aspect of the invention relates to a clip for attachment to an absorbent article, wherein the clip comprises the circuit board according to the invention, a housing, the housing comprising a pivotable upper part, a pivotable lower part connected to the pivotable upper part at a folding edge, and a central part arranged between the pivotable upper part and the pivotable lower part, wherein the pivotable lower part and the central part form a cavity in which the circuit board is housed, wherein the pivotable upper part and the pivotable lower part are pivotable about the folding edge between a closed and an open position of the housing, wherein the pivotable lower part comprises a sensor chamber for the gas detection module and an opening covered with a semipermeable membrane for sealing against liquids and allowing gases to pass through, and pogo pins arranged in the central part.which are electrically connected to the circuit board and electrically connectable to an external power source, to an external measuring instrument embedded in the absorbent article, and / or to the external device, and include a seal surrounding an inner volume of the housing and contacting the pivoting lower and middle sections to seal the cavity. A sensor chamber can provide a more stable and controlled environment. Due to thermodynamics, the gases mix through Brownian motion. If the gas detection module itself is placed in only a small volume, the gases mix more quickly than when using the entire unseparated volume of the clip. This results in a faster response from the detection module, a faster recovery time, and higher precision. By using the semipermeable membrane, the clip is waterproof, preferably in category IP65, and yet allowsthat external gases interact with the gas detection module while the housing remains intact and protected from moisture, dust, and contaminants. The semipermeable membrane between the sensor chamber and the external volume can facilitate gas exchange between the internal and external volumes while simultaneously protecting against moisture, dust, and contaminants. Possible materials for the membrane include PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene), which is hydrophobic and chemically stable; ePTFE (expanded polytetrafluoroethylene), a variant of PTFE with a microporous structure; and microporous polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF).

[0070] According to one embodiment, the pogo pins are electrically connected to the set of conductive pads on the circuit board.

[0071] According to another embodiment, the sensor chamber includes an inwardly directed extrusion in the housing.

[0072] According to another embodiment, the opening is arranged facing the sensor chamber and the gas detection module.

[0073] According to another embodiment, the clip further comprises a light source and the seal a flexible optical waveguide, wherein the light source is configured to couple light into the optical waveguide.

[0074] According to another embodiment, the main control unit is configured to control the operation of the light source to provide light of different colors, the color of which depends on the electrical connection state between the circuit board and the external power source, the external device, and / or the absorbent article with an external measuring instrument. In addition to its sealing function, the seal also performs an indicator function and facilitates operation. For example, a user can use the different colors of light to determine whether the clip is properly connected to the absorbent article, the external power source, and / or the external measuring instrument.

[0075] According to another embodiment, the seal is arranged on an edge of the upper part or the lower part.

[0076] Reference is now made to the following figures to describe preferred embodiments of the invention in more detail. Fig. Figure 1 shows a schematic block diagram of a printed circuit board according to a first embodiment of the invention; Fig. Figure 2 shows a semi-schematic block diagram of a printed circuit board according to a second embodiment of the invention; Fig. 3A shows a top view of a printed circuit board according to an embodiment of the invention; Fig. 3B shows a bottom view of the circuit board. Fig. 3A; Fig. 4 shows an exploded view of a clip according to an embodiment of the invention; Fig. Figure 5A shows a cross-section of a section of the external measuring instrument; Fig. Figure 5B shows a top view of a section of the external measuring instrument. Fig. 5A; Fig. Figure 6A shows an absorbent article with an attached clip according to an embodiment of the invention; Fig. 6B shows the absorbent item made of Fig. 6A, where the clip is positioned outside a pocket; Fig. Figure 7 shows a circuit of a printed circuit board according to an embodiment of the invention for detecting an absorbent article with an external measuring device; Fig. Figure 8 shows a set of conductive pads of a printed circuit board according to an embodiment of the invention;

[0077] Reference is now made in detail to the embodiments illustrated in the drawings. The effects and features of the exemplary embodiments are described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In these drawings, identical reference numerals denote identical elements, and redundant descriptions are omitted. However, the present invention can be implemented in various forms and is not to be interpreted as being limited only to the embodiments illustrated here. Rather, these embodiments are provided merely as examples to fully convey the aspects and features of the present invention to those skilled in the art.

[0078] Fig. Figure 1 shows a schematic block diagram of a printed circuit board 2 according to a first embodiment of the invention. The printed circuit board, PCB, 2 for a clip 1 for attachment to an absorbent article 4 comprises an impedance and electrochemical sensing module 21 configured to receive a first measurement signal for moisture and substance measurement, and a gas detection module 22 configured to receive a second measurement signal for substance measurement. The printed circuit board comprises a motion and position detection module 23 configured to receive a third measurement signal for motion and position detection, a temperature detection module 24 configured to receive a fourth measurement signal for battery management and moisture and substance measurement, and an optional pressure detection module 25 configured to receive a fifth measurement signal for fall detection, pressure sore detection, and decubitus ulcer detection.The circuit board 2 includes an optional battery module 26 configured to provide power for operation, and an optional battery management module 27 configured to connect the circuit board 2 to the battery module 26, implement a second protection layer for the battery module 26, collect information about the battery module, manage the charging and discharging of the battery module 26, and distribute, or in other words, provide, the power for operation at an operating voltage. The circuit board 2 includes an optional power management module 28 configured to interact with the charging voltage provided by an external power source (not shown) to charge the battery module 26 and to implement a first protection layer for the circuit board 2 during charging of the battery module 26 at a gateway of the external power source.Furthermore, the printed circuit board 2 includes a main control unit 29 configured to control the operation of modules 21, 22, 23, 24, 25 for receiving the measurement signals, to sample and process the received measurement signals from the acquisition modules 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, and to determine an output based on the sampled measurement signals. The main control unit 29 includes a communication unit (not shown) configured to exchange the measurement signals and / or the determined output with an external device and / or a server using a radio frequency module (RF), a gateway, and a wireless personal network access protocol (WPAN), and / or using serial data transmission and a universal asynchronous receiver-transmitter (UART). The data communication is indicated by the arrows between the blocks.

[0079] The gas detection module 22, the motion and position detection module 23, the temperature detection module 24, and the pressure detection module 25 are shown as a single component, but the invention is not limited thereto. These modules can also be provided as separate components.

[0080] The main control unit 29 is designed to sample and process data from the acquisition modules 21, 22, 23, 24, and 25 and to communicate with a gateway using the IEEE 802.15 protocol. The RF interface is implemented using a chip antenna (not shown). The supply voltage corresponds to the operating voltage. The main control unit interacts with all other modules.

[0081] The energy management module 28 is responsible for interacting with the charging voltage from the external power source and protecting the entire circuit board 2 while the circuit board 2 is being charged at the gateway of the external power source. The circuit board 2 is connected to the charger via two conductive pads and two pogo pins (see Fig. 3A and Fig. 4) The permissible voltage at these pins is 4.5 to 5.5 V. This voltage is suitable for charging the battery module 26 used in this system. The power management module 28 also includes voltage monitoring to reset the device if necessary when connected to the gateway. The power management module 28 also provides a signal to the main control unit 29 to detect whether the circuit board is connected to the external power source or not.

[0082] The battery management module 27 is responsible for connecting the circuit board 2 and its other components to the battery module 26, implementing a second protection layer for the battery module, collecting battery information (voltage, current, temperature, state of charge), managing the charging and discharging of the battery module 26, and providing the operating voltage. The battery management module 27 includes a power indicator responsible for implementing the second protection layer and reading the battery module's characteristics. The battery management module 27 includes a battery module charger that controls battery charging when the device is connected to the charger. The battery management module 27 includes a digitally controlled low-dropout regulator (LDO) that provides the operating voltage.A system voltage of 3 V was chosen because it is required for the operation of the impedance and electrochemical sensing module 21, and all other peripheral devices and the main control unit 29 can operate at the same voltage. This LDO is capable of supplying a current of 150 mA, which is comfortably above the current requirement of the entire system, and it has integrated overcurrent protection with a shutdown function. The battery management module 27 interacts with the main control unit 29 via digital communication (I2C protocol).

[0083] An external measuring device 43 is indicated, which is connected to conductive pads on the circuit board. These pads, in turn, are in contact with pogo pins in a clip housing. The pogo pins then come into contact with the external measuring device 43, which is embedded in an absorbent article 4. The function of the pads in conjunction with the external measuring device 43 is described below.

[0084] The impedance and electrochemical sensor module 21 is responsible for reading the analog signals provided via the pogo pins and pads (see below) to ultimately enable impedance measurement. This component is a single-component solution for bioimpedance measurement, providing all the signals required for the measurement. The supply voltage is the operating voltage. The impedance and electrochemical sensing module 21 interacts directly with the main control unit 29 via digital communication (SPI protocol) and with the external measuring device 43, receiving the analog signals from the external measuring device 43 attached to the clip.

[0085] The sensing modules 22, 23, 24, 25 contain the environmental sensors of the circuit board. The sensing modules 22, 23, 24, 25 interact with the main control unit 29 via digital communication (I2C protocol) and operate using the operating voltage.

[0086] The circuit board can contain an LED and an LED driver, which is responsible for controlling the LED used for the user interface.

[0087] Fig. Figure 2 shows a semi-schematic block diagram of a printed circuit board 2 according to a second embodiment of the invention. Components corresponding to those in Fig. Components that are identical are not described again, so the description of these components is taken from the description of Fig. 1 follows.

[0088] In this embodiment, the optional battery management module 27 comprises several separate units. The battery management module 27 includes a low-dropout regulator 271, a battery module charger 272, a power indicator 273, and a voltage regulator 274. The optional power management module 28 includes two current limiters 281 and a voltage monitor 282. The voltage supplied by the external power source is 5 V, which is used to charge the battery module 26. The low-dropout regulator 271 limits the voltage of the external power source to 5 V and the voltage of the battery module 26 to 3.7 V, resulting in the operating voltage of 3 V. The sensing modules 21, 22, 23, 24, and 25 are also implemented separately in this case. A memory 30 on the circuit board is also shown here, which can also be used in the first embodiment.Furthermore, the power supply to the various components is represented by the broad arrows, which indicate the corresponding (operating) voltages. Data communication between the components is also represented by the thin arrows.

[0089] Fig. Figure 3A shows a top view of a printed circuit board 2 according to an embodiment of the invention and Fig. 3B shows a bottom view of the circuit board made of Fig. 3A. Components that are compatible with those in Fig. 1 and Fig. Components that are identical (2) are not described again, so the description of these components is taken from the description of Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 follows. The printed circuit board 2 comprises a set of conductive pads 31 to 36 for electrical connection to the external power source, an external measuring instrument, the external device, for serial data transmission, e.g., external serial communication, and / or for electrical connection to the impedance and electrochemical sensing module 21 and / or to the main control unit 29. The set of conductive pads comprises a first conductive pad 31, a second conductive pad 32, a third conductive pad 33, a fourth conductive pad 34, a fifth conductive pad 35, and a sixth conductive pad 36. The pads are arranged in two rows, one above the other, with 4 pads in the upper row and 2 pads in the lower row. The main control unit 29 is located on a top side of the printed circuit board 2 in a central area in a first direction, e.g., the X-axis, and near a bottom edge of the printed circuit board. B. in an end area in a second direction, e.g.The energy management module 28 is arranged on a top surface of the printed circuit board 2 in a peripheral region in a first direction, e.g., the X-axis, and near an upper edge of the printed circuit board, e.g., in an end region, in a second direction, e.g., the Y-axis, which is perpendicular to the first direction. The illustrated elements 271, 272, 273 of the battery management module 27 are arranged on a top surface of the printed circuit board 2 in a peripheral region in a first direction, e.g., the X-axis, and near an upper edge of the printed circuit board, e.g., in an end region, in a second direction, e.g., the Y-axis, which is perpendicular to the first direction. A battery input connector 275 of the battery management module 27 is located on a bottom side of the circuit board 2 opposite the elements 271, 272, 273 of the battery management module 27 in an edge region in a first direction, e.g.The impedance and electrochemical sensing module 21 is arranged along the X-axis and near an upper edge of the printed circuit board 2, e.g., in an end region in a second direction, e.g., the Y-axis, which is perpendicular to the first direction. The impedance and electrochemical sensing module 21 is arranged on a top side of the printed circuit board 2 in a central area. The arrangement of the main control unit 29 enables an optimized layout and routing as well as adherence to RF design best practices. The arrangement of the power management module 28 is preferably adjacent to a positive terminal of a charging pad 33 (third pad 33). The arrangement of the battery management module 27 and its elements is chosen to be closer to the battery input connector 275. The arrangement of the impedance and electrochemical sensing module 21 is as close as possible to pads 31 to 36 to minimize noise in the analog signals.

[0090] Fig. Figure 4 shows an exploded view of a clip 1 for attachment to an absorbent article according to an embodiment of the invention. The clip 1 comprises a printed circuit board 2 according to the invention and a housing 11, wherein the housing 11 has a pivotable upper part 111, a pivotable lower part 112 connected to the pivotable upper part 111 at a folding edge 113, and a middle part 114 arranged between the upper part 111 and the lower part 112, wherein the pivotable lower part 112 and the middle part 114 form a cavity 115 in which the printed circuit board 2 and the battery module 26 are housed.The pivotable upper part 111 and the pivotable lower part 112 are pivotable about the folding edge 113 between a closed and an open position of the housing 11, the pivotable lower part 112 having a sensor chamber 116 for the gas detection module 22, wherein a semipermeable membrane 12 is arranged between the sensor chamber 116 and an outer volume of the housing 11. The clip 1 further comprises pogo pins 13 arranged in the central part 114, which are electrically connected to the circuit board 2 and which can be electrically connected to the external power source, an external measuring device embedded in the absorbent article, and / or the external device. The clip 1 includes a seal 14 that surrounds an inner volume of the housing 11 and contacts the pivotable lower part 112 and the central part 114 to seal the cavity 115. The sensor chamber 116 includes an inwardly directed extrusion in the housing 11.The housing 11 has an opening covered by the semipermeable membrane 12 to seal against liquids and allow gases to pass through. The opening faces the sensor chamber 116 and the gas detection module 22. The clip 1 further includes a light source 15, for example an LED 15, with a flexible PCB, and the seal 14 includes a flexible optical waveguide 14, wherein the light source 15 is configured to couple light into the flexible optical waveguide 14. The light source 15 is configured to provide light of different colors, and the color of the provided light depends on an electrical connection state between the circuit board 2 and the external power source, the external device, and / or the absorbent article with an external measuring device. The seal is arranged at an edge of the upper or lower part 112.A serial number sticker 17 can be provided to display information about the clip, for example in combination with a QR code. An NFC antenna 16 is provided on the swiveling lower part 112.

[0091] Fig. Figure 5A shows a cross-section through a section of the external measuring instrument 43 and Fig. Figure 5B shows a top view of a section of the external measuring instrument 43. Fig. 5A. Here, the external measuring device 43 is a moisture sensor strip comprising two interdigital electrodes (IDEs) 432 printed with conductive ink onto a polymer substrate 431 suitable for moisture measurement.

[0092] Fig. Figure 6A shows an absorbent article 4 with an attached clip 1 according to an embodiment of the invention and Fig. 6B shows the absorbent item 4 from Fig. 6A with the clip arranged outside a pocket space 42. Components that are compatible with those in Fig. 1, Fig. 2 and Fig. Components that are identical (4) are not described again, so the description of these components is taken from the description of Fig. 1, Fig. 2 and Fig. 4 follows. Fig. Figure 6A shows a partial sectional view of the absorbent article 4. A strip encompassing the moisture sensor strip 43, which has two interlocking electrodes printed with conductive ink onto a PET substrate, and a cover layer 41, is attached to the absorbent article and forms a pocket 42 for the clip 1. The pocket 42 is accessible via an access opening. Also shown is the clip 1 with the circuit board 2 (not shown). The lower pivoting part 111 and the middle part 114 are inserted into the pocket 42, and the upper pivoting part 111 can be closed to attach the clip 1 to the absorbent article 4. The clip 1 is aligned with the moisture sensor strip 43 such that the contact pads of the moisture sensor strip 43 (not shown) and the pogo pins 13 of the clip 1 are conductively connected.The conductive pads 31 to 36 are electrically connected to the pogo pins 13 and thus also to the moisture sensor strip 43.

[0093] Fig. Figure 7 shows the circuit of a printed circuit board according to an embodiment of the invention for detecting an absorbent article 4 with an external measuring device 43. The external measuring device 43 can be the moisture sensor strip 43. If the number of conductive pads is 6, the main control unit 29 is configured to detect the attachment of the absorbent article 4 with the external measuring device 43 to the printed circuit board 2 by means of an electrical connection of the external measuring device 43 to the first conductive pad 31 and the fifth conductive pad 35. The detection of the absorbent article 4 with the external measuring device 43 works as follows: A first resistor R1 is connected to an output O1 of the main control unit 29 and the fifth pad 35. A second resistor R2 is connected to another output O2 of the main control unit 29 and the first pad 31.When the output O1 connected to the first resistor R1 is pulled high (operating voltage) and the other output O2 connected to the second resistor R2 is pulled low (ground), a known resistance results between the fifth pad 35 and the first pad 31 when the sensor strip 43 is connected. Current then flows through the first resistor R1, the sensor strip 43, and the second resistor R2 to ground, creating a voltage divider. The voltage at the junction where the first resistor R1, the fifth pad 35, and a third resistor R3 are connected falls below the operating voltage and is compared to a fixed reference value by an internal main control unit comparator C connected to the third resistor R3. If the voltage falls below the fixed reference value, the main control unit 29 is switched off to initiate the tasks associated with impedance measurement.This method is used to identify the absorbent item 4 and also helps to prevent incorrect fastenings.

[0094] Fig.Figure 8 shows a set of conductive pads on a printed circuit board according to an embodiment of the invention. The set of conductive pads comprises a first conductive pad 31, a second conductive pad 32, a third conductive pad 33, a fourth conductive pad 34, a fifth conductive pad 35, and a sixth conductive pad 36. As described above, the first and fifth conductive pads 31 and 35 can be used for detecting absorbent items. The actual impedance measurement can be performed using the first and second pads 31 and 32. The fifth and sixth pads 35 and 36 can be used as an external communication interface (for communication with the gateway when connected to it). In other words, the first pad 31 is used for both detection and measurement.The fifth pad, 35, is used jointly for detection and wired communication with the gateway, as communication and detection cannot occur simultaneously. The third and fourth pads, 33 and 34, can be connected to 5 V and GND and are the inputs for the battery module charger 275. Reference symbol list 1 clip 11 cases 111 swiveling top 112 swiveling lower section 113 Folding edge 114 Middle section 115 cavity 116 Sensor chamber 12 semipermeable membrane 13 Pogo Pins 14 Seal, optical fiber 15 light sources, LED 16 NFC antenna 17 serial number stickers 2 circuit boards 21 Impedance and electrochemical detection module 22 Gas detection module 23 Motion and position detection module 24 Temperature sensing module 25 Print Capture Module 26 battery module 27 Battery management module 271 Low-dropout controller 272 Battery module charger 273 Energy display 274 voltage regulators 275 Battery input connectors 28 Energy Management Module 281 Current limiter 282 voltage monitors 29 Main control unit 30 storage 31 first conductive pad 32 second conductive pad 33 third conductive pad 34 fourth conductive pad 35 fifth conductive pad 36 sixth conductive pad 4 absorbent items 41 Top layer 42 bags 43 external measuring device, moisture sensor strips 431 PET substrate 432 IDE O1, O2 outputs of the main control unit R1, R2, R3 first, second and third resistor C Comparator

Claims

[1] Printed circuit board, PCB, (2) for a clip (1) for attachment to an absorbent article (4), wherein the printed circuit board (2) comprises: a battery module (26) designed to provide energy for the operation of the circuit board (2), an impedance and electrochemical detection module (21) designed to receive an initial measurement signal for moisture and substance measurement, a gas detection module (22) which is configured to receive a second measurement signal for substance measurement, a motion and position detection module (23) configured to receive a third measurement signal for motion and position detection, a temperature sensing module (24) configured to receive a fourth measurement signal for moisture and substance measurement, a main control unit (29) configured to control the operation of the acquisition modules (21, 22, 23, 24) for receiving the measurement signals, to sample and process the received measurement signals from the acquisition modules (21, 22, 23, 24), and to determine an output based on the sampled measurement signals, wherein the main control unit (29) includes a communication unit configured to exchange the measurement signals and / or the determined output with an external device and / or a server using a radio frequency module, RF module, gateway, and a wireless personal network transmission protocol, WPAN protocol, and / or using serial data transmission, and a set of conductive pads (31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36), with a first and a second conductive pad (31, 32) for impedance measurement, a third and a fourth conductive pad (33, 34) for charging the battery module (26), the first and a fifth conductive pad (31, 35) for detecting the attachment of the absorbent article (4) with an external measuring device (43), and the fifth and a sixth conductive pad (35, 36) for serial data transmission with the external device and / or the server and additionally for impedance measurement by means of four-wire measurement. [2] Printed circuit board, PCB, (2) for a clip (1) for attachment to an absorbent article (4), wherein the printed circuit board (2) comprises: a battery module (26) designed to provide energy for the operation of the circuit board (2), an impedance and electrochemical detection module (21) designed to receive an initial measurement signal for moisture and substance measurement, a gas detection module (22) which is configured to receive a second measurement signal for substance measurement, a motion and position detection module (23) configured to receive a third measurement signal for motion and position detection, a temperature sensing module (24) configured to receive a fourth measurement signal for moisture and substance measurement, a main control unit (29) configured to control the operation of the acquisition modules (21, 22, 23, 24) for receiving the measurement signals, to sample and process the received measurement signals from the acquisition modules (21, 22, 23, 24), and to determine an output based on the sampled measurement signals, wherein the main control unit (29) includes a communication unit configured to exchange the measurement signals and / or the determined output with an external device and / or a server using a radio frequency module, RF module, gateway, and a wireless personal network transmission protocol, WPAN protocol, and / or using serial data transmission, and a set of conductive pads (31, 32, 33, 34) with a first and a second conductive pad (31, 32) for impedance measurement, for detecting the attachment of the absorbent article (4) with an external measuring instrument (43) and for serial data transmission with the external device and / or the server, and a third and a fourth conductive pad (33, 34) for charging the battery module (26). [3] Printed circuit board (2) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the printed circuit board (2) further comprises: a battery management module (27) configured to connect the circuit board (2) to the battery module (26), to implement a second protective layer for the battery module (26), to collect information about the battery module (26), to manage the charging and discharging of the battery module (26), and to distribute the energy for operation at an operating voltage, an energy management module (28) configured to interact with a charging voltage provided by an external energy source to charge the battery module (26) and to implement a first protection layer for the circuit board (2) while the battery module (26) is being charged at a gateway of the external energy source. [4] Printed circuit board (2) according to claim 3, wherein the main control unit (29) is arranged on a top side of the printed circuit board (2) in a central area in a first direction and near a lower edge of the printed circuit board (2) to enable optimized layout and routing as well as compliance with RF design best practices, and / or the energy management module (28) is arranged on a top side of the printed circuit board (2) in a periphery in a first direction and near an upper edge of the printed circuit board (2), wherein the arrangement is adjacent to a positive terminal of the charging pad (33), and / or the battery management module (27) is arranged on a top side of the printed circuit board (2) in a peripheral area in a first direction and near an upper edge of the printed circuit board (2) so that it is located close to a battery input connector (275) to minimize noise from analog signals, and / or a battery input connector (275) of the battery management module (27) is located on a bottom side of the printed circuit board (2) opposite the battery management module (27) in an edge region in a first direction and near an upper edge of the printed circuit board (2), and / or the impedance and electrochemical sensing module (21) is arranged on a top side of the circuit board (2) in a central area to minimize the noise of analog signals. [5] Printed circuit board (2) according to claim 3 or 4, wherein the power management module (28) comprises a voltage monitor (282) configured to reset the device when it is connected to the gateway of the external power source. [6] Printed circuit board (2) according to any one of claims 3 to 5, wherein the battery management module (27) comprises: an energy indicator (273) for implementing the second protective layer and for reading properties of the battery module (26), a battery module charger (272) configured to charge the battery module (26) when the device is connected to the external power source, and / or a voltage regulator (274) to provide the operating voltage, wherein the voltage regulator (274) comprises a digitally controlled low-dropout regulator (271), LDO. [7] Printed circuit board (2) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the main control unit (29) is further configured to determine real-time and / or intermediate information about the moisture level of the absorbent article (4) as output based on the first measurement signal received by the impedance and electrochemical sensing module (21), and preferably to determine a need to change the absorbent article (4) as output based on the determined real-time and / or intermediate information about the moisture level of the absorbent article (4). [8] Printed circuit board (2) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the main control unit (29) is further configured to to identify substances in the absorbent article (4) as output based on the second measurement signal received by the gas detection module (22), and preferably to determine a need to change the absorbent article (4) as an output based on the substances identified in the absorbent article (4). [9] Printed circuit board (2) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the main control unit (29) is further configured to to determine a position, a movement and a corresponding time of the absorbent article (4) as output based on the third measurement signal received by the motion and position detection module (23), and preferably based on the determined position, movement and corresponding time, to determine a need to relocate a person wearing the absorbent article (4) as output, a fall event of the person wearing the absorbent article (4) as output or a departure of the person wearing the absorbent article (4) from a predefined safety zone as output. [10] Printed circuit board (2) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the impedance and electrochemical detection module (21) is configured to to inject a measuring current into a conductor track (432) of the external measuring device (43) via the first conductive pad (31) and to detect a resulting current from the conductor track (432) of the external measuring device (43) via the second conductive pad (32), and / or to generate sinusoidal voltages with different frequencies, to apply these to an electrode of an electrically connected moisture sensor strip (43) by means of the first conductive pad (31) and to measure a resulting signal at another electrode of the moisture sensor strip by means of the second conductive pad (32). [11] Clip (1) for attachment to an absorbent article (4), wherein the clip (1) comprises: the printed circuit board (2) according to one of the preceding claims, a housing (11), wherein the housing (11) comprises a pivotable upper part (111), a pivotable lower part (112) connected to the pivotable upper part (111) at a folding edge (113), and a central part (114) arranged between the pivotable upper part (111) and the pivotable lower part (112), wherein the pivotable lower part (112) and the central part (114) form a cavity (115) in which the circuit board (2) is housed, wherein the pivotable upper part (111) and the pivotable lower part (112) are pivotable about the folding edge (113) between a closed and an open position of the housing (11), wherein the pivotable lower part (112) comprises a sensor chamber (116) for the gas detection module (22) and an opening covered with a semipermeable membrane (12) for sealing against liquids and includes the passage of gases, Pogo pins (13) arranged in the central part (114), which are electrically connected to the circuit board (2) and can be electrically connected to an external power source, to an external measuring instrument (43) embedded in the absorbent article (4) and / or to the external device, and a seal (14) surrounding an internal volume of the housing (11) and contacting the pivotable lower part (112) and the middle part (114) for sealing the cavity (115). [12] Clip (1) according to claim 11, wherein the sensor chamber (116) comprises an inwardly directed extrusion in the housing (11). [13] Clip (1) according to claim 11 or 12, wherein the opening is arranged facing the sensor chamber (116) and the gas detection module (22). [14] Clip (1) according to one of claims 11 to 13, wherein the clip (1) further comprises a light source (15) and the seal (14) comprises an elastic optical waveguide (14), wherein the light source (15) is configured to couple light into the elastic optical waveguide (14). [15] Clip (1) according to claim 14, wherein the main control unit (29) is configured to control the operation of the light source (15) to provide light of different colors, and wherein the color of the light provided depends on an electrical connection state between the circuit board (2) and the external power source, the external device and / or the absorbent article (4) with the external measuring means (43).

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