A system for monitoring paralyzed patients

Abstract

A movement-based communication system for paralyzed patients, including: Motion detection sensors configured to detect finger movements, a microcontroller for processing the detected movements and assigning them to predefined messages, a communication module to forward the message to a caregiver's mobile app or speaker, a buzzer system to alert the caregiver in case of emergency and a power supply to operate the device; the microcontroller is programmed to assign finger movements to specific voltage ranges and to assign corresponding predefined messages to each voltage range.

Description

AREA OF INVENTION

[0001] This invention relates to a system for monitoring paralyzed patients. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] In patients with paralysis, the entire body or part of it is impaired by the paralysis attack. These individuals are, in most cases, unable to communicate their needs because insufficient brain control prevents them from speaking properly or using sign language. This problem poses a challenge for their caregivers, especially when the patients are elderly. The proposed system helps paralyzed patients communicate their needs to their caregivers by using motion-based signals and a recognition system.

[0003] US11896389B2 describes a paralysis monitoring system comprising a nerve stimulation device configured to deliver a series of low-voltage electrical pulses to a nerve to elicit only non-visible muscle responses, and a recording device configured to record the electrical activity associated with a muscle response elicited by the series of low-voltage electrical pulses.

[0004] CN105118236B describes the present invention and describes a type of means for monitoring and preventing paralysis and falls, as well as its processing method, comprising: alarm modules, a signal acquisition module, and a signal processing module, wherein the signal acquisition module serves to acquire behavioral data of the human body and biological sign data of the human body.

[0005] EP4091661B1 Two important pharmaceutical components of modern general anesthesia are the anesthetics, which are responsible for unconsciousness, and the neuromuscular blocking agents, which cause muscle paralysis. It is not uncommon for patients to wake up partially paralyzed (residual neuromuscular blockade), which can lead to significant patient harm (e.g., impaired breathing).

[0006] RU2445990C1 refers to medicine, specifically neurology and physiotherapy, and is applicable to the treatment of peripheral and central paralysis and paresis of various etiologies. One method involves drug therapy and electrical stimulation of the paralyzed muscles. Drug therapy is administered via endnasal and upper thoracic electrophoresis using glutamine. Electrical stimulation consists of exposure to multi-modulated bipolar current at a frequency of 20-120 Hz with a 1:1 packet-pause ratio. Additionally, muscles symmetrical to the paralyzed muscles and a projection of the peripheral and autonomic nervous systems are treated through bilateral exposure. The duration of a single procedure is 10-30 minutes. The therapeutic course comprises 10-15 procedures, either daily or every other day.

[0007] US20150269825A1 A wireless system monitoring system comprises a wireless telephone and a portable device that communicates with the wireless telephone, the device monitoring activity with an accelerometer and one or more additional sensors to detect movement or vital signs.

[0008] The available monitoring systems for paralyzed patients are used in hospitals during treatment or while patients are under the supervision of hospital management. There are no advanced systems that can be used to monitor paralyzed patients in residential care facilities. Existing systems are inadequate with regard to adapting the monitoring of paralyzed patients in residential care facilities to the needs of their caregivers or spouses.

[0009] None of the above-mentioned prior art disclosures, either alone or in combination, reveal what is disclosed in the present invention. This invention relates to a system for monitoring paralyzed patients. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0010] This proposed method uses finger movements to represent the patient's needs. Sensors detect the angle of finger movement. The microcontroller maps the input voltages and then assigns a range to each finger movement. A predefined message relating to the patient's basic needs and emergency situations is stored in the areas designated for each sensor movement. The patient's hand is fitted with the device. The patient is first trained to communicate with the caregiver using finger movements to convey their needs. The caregiver recognizes the message and transmits it to the caregiver via the app and a speaker. The patient then simply needs to bend one or more fingers.Several methods now exist for paralyzed individuals; however, this technique aids in the continuous monitoring and understanding of the patient's needs. If the patient is in critical condition, a buzzer sounds to alert the caregiver if the patient is lying on the floor or if their pulse rate is unusually high.

[0011] The present invention provides a novel motion-based communication system for paralyzed patients to communicate with their caregivers. The system uses finger gestures, with each movement being detected by sensors that assign the movement to a predefined message.

[0012] The system consists of: • Sensors for detecting the angle and movement of the fingers. • A microcontroller processes the sensor inputs and assigns specific messages to each gesture. • A communication module that forwards the message to the caregiver via a mobile application or a speaker. • A buzzer system that is activated in critical situations, e.g., if the patient falls or their pulse rate becomes unusually high.

[0013] By wearing the device on his hand, the patient can communicate to the nursing staff that he has a specific need or an emergency through simple movements of his fingers or a combination of fingers. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0014] This proposed method uses finger movements to represent the patient's needs. Sensors detect the angle of finger movement. The microcontroller maps the input voltages and then assigns a range to each finger movement. A predefined message relating to the patient's basic needs and emergency situations is stored in the areas designated for each sensor movement. The patient's hand is fitted with the device. The patient is first trained to communicate with the caregiver using finger movements to convey their needs. The caregiver recognizes the message and transmits it to the caregiver via the app and a speaker. The patient then simply needs to bend one or more fingers.Several methods now exist for paralyzed individuals; however, this technique aids in the continuous monitoring and understanding of the patient's needs. If the patient is in critical condition, a buzzer sounds to alert the caregiver if the patient is lying on the floor or if their pulse rate is unusually high.

[0015] Hardware components: 1. Motion detection sensors: A series of motion sensors, usually flexion sensors, are attached to the patient's fingers. These sensors detect the flexion angle of the fingers and convert the movement into corresponding electrical signals. 2. Microcontroller: The microcontroller processes the sensor input signals and assigns each value range to a specific action or message. For example, a particular finger movement might indicate a need for water, while another gesture could signal an urgent medical need. The microcontroller assigns a voltage range to each finger movement, corresponding to a pre-stored message. 3. Communication module: A wireless communication module (e.g., Bluetooth or Wi-Fi) is integrated into the system to send the patient's message to the caregiver's mobile application or speaker. This enables remote monitoring of the patient's condition. 4. Buzzer system: In critical situations, e.g., if the patient falls or abnormal physiological changes (such as a sudden increase in pulse rate) occur, a buzzer is triggered to immediately alert the nursing staff. 5. Power supply: The system is powered by a rechargeable battery, enabling continuous operation of the device. It is lightweight and ensures patient comfort when wearing the device. 6. Mobile Application: The system is connected to a mobile application that receives messages from the patient and displays them to the nursing staff. The app can also trigger audible alarms in emergencies. Software components: 1. Signal processing software: The microcontroller software processes the raw sensor data and converts it into digital signals. Based on the finger flexion angles, the software assigns a specific message to each input area. 2. Message Assignment Module: The system contains predefined messages, such as requests for food, water, medical care, or other daily needs. When the patient makes a specific gesture, the corresponding message is transmitted to the caregiver via the app or a speaker. 3. Monitoring of critical conditions: In addition to finger gesture communication, the system continuously monitors the patient's condition, including pulse and body position. If an anomaly is detected, such as a rapid pulse or a fall, an emergency message and a buzzer alarm are triggered. Work: 1. Patient training: The patient is first trained to communicate using finger gestures. Each gesture corresponds to a specific message that is predefined and stored in the system. For example, bending the index finger could mean: "I need water," while bending several fingers could mean: "I urgently need medical help." 2. Sensor detection: As soon as the patient performs a gesture, the motion detection sensors record the finger movement. The flexion angle is converted into a voltage signal, which is processed by the microcontroller. 3. Message transmission: The microcontroller interprets the signal and assigns it to a predefined message. The message is then sent via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi to the mobile app or speaker of the caregiver. The caregiver receives a notification, either as a text message or as a voice alert, indicating the patient's request. 4. Emergency Alarms: The system continuously monitors the patient for critical conditions. If a fall is detected or the pulse rate becomes dangerously high, the buzzer system is activated to alert the caregiver. This ensures that urgent assistance can be provided, even if the patient is unable to make any gestures. Advantages of the invention ➢Paralyzed patients can easily communicate with their caregivers and ask for help when needed. ➢Secure and reliable communication. ➢Remote monitoring ➢Accuracy of data collection ➢Portability and comfort ➢Cost efficiency QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] US 11896389B2

[0003] CN 105118236B

[0004] EP 4091661B1

[0005] RU 2445990C1

[0006] US 20150269825A1

[0007]

Claims

[1] A movement-based communication system for paralyzed patients, comprising: Motion detection sensors configured to detect finger movements, a microcontroller for processing the detected movements and assigning them to predefined messages, a communication module to forward the message to a caregiver's mobile app or speaker, a buzzer system to alert the caregiver in case of emergency and a power supply to operate the device; the microcontroller is programmed to assign finger movements to specific voltage ranges and to assign corresponding predefined messages to each voltage range. [2] System according to claim 1, wherein the communication module wirelessly transmits the patient's message to the caregiver using Bluetooth technology. [3] System according to claim 1, wherein the communication module wirelessly transmits the patient's message to the caregiver via a Wi-Fi connection. [4] System according to claim 1, further comprising a critical condition monitoring module that continuously detects the patient's physiological condition, such as falls or abnormal pulse rates, and triggers an alarm to notify nursing staff. [5] System according to claim 1, wherein the motion detection sensors comprise bending sensors that measure the bending angles of the patient's fingers. [6] System according to claim 1, wherein the buzzer system is triggered when an emergency condition is detected and alerts the caregiver with an acoustic alarm. [7] System according to claim 1, further comprising a mobile application that displays the patient's transmitted message and includes an emergency warning system. [8] System according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized by that the power supply is provided by a battery, which enables continuous operation of the device. [9] System according to claim 1, wherein the patient can communicate by means of a combination of finger movements, each combination representing different messages based on predefined movement patterns.