Portable measuring instrument

Abstract

Disclosed is a mobile device for acquiring measurement parameters, characterized in that the device includes a sensor for detecting substances contained in sweat or breath.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a portable measuring device, in particular in the form of a finger ring

[0002] The inventor and his team have been working on the development of sensor systems for measuring vital parameters for almost a decade. For example, DE 10 2010 061 531 A1, published in 2010, and DE 10 2015 117 053, published five years later, each disclose methods that

[0003] "are intended to ensure the fastest possible, professional medical care for an individual in the event of unexpectedly emerging and / or suddenly occurring health disorders, in which - personal, optimum physiological standard values ​​of the individual are recorded and stored in an evaluation unit, - using a body contact module, at least one current physiological measured value of the individual is measured by means of at least one sensor assigned to the body contact module and converted into physical signals orreadable data, - which are fed to the evaluation unit and compared with the stored standard values, whereby - in the event of potentially life-threatening deviations of the measured values ​​recorded by the sensor from the standard values, an emergency signal (C) is sent to a central unit with simultaneous indication of the respective deviations and the location of the individual, - into which the data from competence centers, such as hospitals, specialists, service providers (e.g.ambulances), telecommunications companies or the like, - and which transmits an emergency call signal (C) about the clinical picture and the location of the individual to at least one of the competence centers that it considers most suitable, characterized in that the evaluation unit, before sending an emergency call signal (C) to the central unit - in the case of current measured values ​​that lie within predetermined tolerable limits of the stored personal standard values, sends the individual an information or warning message."It issues a warning signal (A) in response to a potentially impending health disorder in order to encourage the individual to take action of their own in order to bring the current measured values ​​back towards the optimal standard values, and - in the event of deviations in the current measured values ​​which lie outside the tolerable limits but are not yet threatening, it issues an alarm signal (B) to the individual with simultaneous recommendations, stored in the evaluation unit and adapted to different health disorders, for immediate independent action until the intervention of competence centers notified by the central unit."

[0004] This fastest possible professional medical care is based on the recording of measured values, whereby each measured value is converted into physical signals and transmitted to a central unit via a bidirectional communication link. There, the data is evaluated by staff in competence centers and, along with information, sent back to the transmitter. These procedures serve both long-term monitoring and the early detection of critical values. However, no practical and mobile solutions for implementing this procedure have yet been found. Conventional stationary monitoring systems used in intensive care medicine, which can provide the data required above, have the critical disadvantage of being bulky. Furthermore, the sensors and electrodes are connected via cables, which further significantly restrict freedom of movement.

[0005] This is, of course, contrary to the realization that only in the continuity of biosignal recording, which on the one hand should include 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and on the other hand a data comparison with long-term measurements, can long-term trends and short-term incidents be recorded for effective prevention.

[0006] In intensive care units, which offer full-time observation and diagnosis or treatment for each patient, measurement data is recorded 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. However, only patients with severe or life-threatening illnesses or injuries who urgently require intensive care are treated there. Common abbreviations for the term intensive care unit are therefore IS, IPS (intensive care unit), ITS (intensive therapy unit), IB (intensive treatment unit), ICU (intensive care unit), and ITV (intensive care unit).

[0007] However, long before care begins in an intensive care unit, it is advisable to conduct a comprehensive, modified and modern-day medical history in order to avoid this stay in an intensive care unit.

[0008] A medical history is actually the professional inquiry into potentially medically relevant information by a medical professional. The answer is either given by the patient themselves or by a third party. The goal is usually to record a patient's medical history or medical history in the context of a current illness.

[0009] The "modified medical history" proposed in this application draws on additional sources for professionally eliciting potentially medically relevant information. These sources consist of all conceivable medical information that can be found about the patient in question. For example, previous illnesses and allergies, family history, occupation, medication use, risk factors, sexual behavior, travel habits, and subjective complaints can play a role, as can a list of systematically and regularly measured data.

[0010] As mentioned above, the inventor's long-standing goal has been to provide an intensive care unit that is not only mobile but also portable. Now, another challenge has been added: the early detection of medical problems in "patients" who don't yet even recognize themselves as "patients."

[0011] It is therefore the object of the present invention to provide a mobile device which, due to the measurement and transmission of relevant measurement parameters, has the possibility of providing the wearer with information about his state of health 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, whereby data comparisons and long-term measurements are included.

[0012] This object is achieved by the inventive mobile device for recording vital parameters, wherein the device, which rests on the wearer's body, has at least one sensor for detecting substances present in sweat or breath. The human metabolism processes the substances ingested, self-produced, and, of course, excreted, substances that are partially transported out of the body through sweat or exhalation. This allows one to examine a person's sweat and breath for irregularities, and to detect deviations in metabolism by analyzing the substances dissolved in the sweat. Recently, for example, free amino acids in eccrine, thermal sweat have been quantitatively determined using ion exchange column chromatography.

[0013] Particularly high excretion rates were observed for the following amino acids: alanine, glycine, citrulline, histidine, ornithine, threonine and serine, but also the other amino acids and protein fragments present in the body were found.

[0014] As circulating nutrients, amino acids are important indicators and biomarkers of a body's health. Their composition is determined by each person's individual lifestyle.

[0015] The human body requires a variety of amino acids, some of which are essential, meaning the human organism cannot produce them itself. They must be obtained through food.

[0016] For humans, valine, methionine, leucine, isoleucine, phenylalanine, tryptophan, threonine, lysine, and histidine are essential amino acids. There are therefore nine essential amino acids. Conditionally essential or semi-essential amino acids must be ingested with food only in certain situations, for example during growth or after serious injury. The remaining amino acids are either synthesized directly or obtained from other amino acids by modification. For example, cysteine ​​can be synthesized from the essential amino acid methionine. As long as the ability to convert phenylalanine into the amino acid tyrosine is not yet fully developed, tyrosine is one of the essential amino acids in childhood, along with the others. For a similar reason, tyrosine must also be administered in cases of phenylketonuria.There are also other diseases that impair amino acid metabolism and may require the intake of a nonessential amino acid. This demonstrates the importance of amino acids in the body.

[0017] Elevated branched-chain amino acids, including leucine (Leu), isoleucine (Ile), and valine (Val), are known to be associated with obesity, insulin resistance, and other future risks, such as type 2 diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular disease, and pancreatic cancer.

[0018] Arginine and cysteine ​​deficiencies can impair the immune system. Other amino acids (tryptophan, tyrosine, and phenylalanine) are precursors of neurotransmitters. The coronavirus is also correlated with a specific concentration of leucine, phenylalanine, and vitamins.

[0019] Furthermore, certain gaseous components in the air we breathe can indicate certain diseases. For example, exhaled nitrogen oxide (NO) indicates inflammation of the respiratory tract. The smell of acetone indicates diabetes, while the smell of carbon monoxide and ammonia indicates liver problems.

[0020] Metabolic profiling and monitoring enable relief and prevention through dietary adjustment and medical treatment. This is usually done through blood analysis, i.e., invasive procedures, and / or subsequent gas chromatographic analysis of the samples.

[0021] It is now clear that the analysis of sweat and breath represents an advantage as a replacement for the above-mentioned analysis methods due to its non-invasiveness and mobility. This would allow the continuous monitoring required above to be carried out.

[0022] The mobile device for recording measurement parameters, which is characterized by the device having a sensor for detecting substances present in sweat or breath, detects these substances and determines their concentrations and concentration changes. From this, or in combination with other parameters, for example, one or more of the following vital signs and the information derived from them, such as temperature, heart rate, pulse rate, respiratory rate, and blood oxygen saturation, it is now possible to obtain an overview of the physical health of the device wearer. If it is now still possible to access the data already obtained from previous measurements, it is only a short step to a "modified medical history."

[0023] Vital parameters and the measurement parameters mentioned above are metrics that evaluate basic functions of the human body. For the purposes of this application, other parameters and measurement results are also referred to as vital parameters. In fact, many measurement data that are not yet considered relevant today are useful data for assessing a physical condition. Combinations of measurement data and metadata can also be used to assess a physical condition. These parameters to be measured are measured during medical physical examinations and provide information about the vital functions, namely the bodily functions that describe the life processes of a (in this case) human organism. These include respiration, cardiovascular function, brain function, water-electrolyte and acid-base balance, kidney function and heat balance. Vital parameters are fundamentally differentiated based on two types of measurement.On the one hand, there are discrete, time-based measurements, such as heart rate, blood pressure, body temperature, and respiratory rate. On the other hand, there are continuous measurements, which include the electrocardiogram (ECG) and electroencephalography (EEG).

[0024] Conditions that can be detected and treated early through such monitoring include myocardial infarction or severe cardiac arrhythmias, ARDS, pulmonary embolism, severe asthma attacks, pancreatitis, gastrointestinal bleeding and sepsis, kidney failure, pulmonary edema, (severe) pneumonia, and suspected stroke. This list is intended only as examples and is therefore unfortunately incomplete. However, the information, warnings, and advice should not only be provided in suspected serious cases, but should also take into account minor deviations from the "normal" state.

[0025] For personal healthcare systems, as disclosed here, biosignals that can be determined non-invasively, such as data obtained from sweat or breath, as well as the electrocardiogram (ECG), the photoplethysmogram (PPG) and oxygen saturation, are particularly suitable.

[0026] The recording and analysis of a person's measurement parameters allows conclusions to be drawn about that person's state of health. This can lead to information that the person themselves is not aware of. Sensors for recording these parameters are known, but they are constantly being replaced by newer, more precise sensors. The mobility of the device according to the invention, which is intended to rest directly on the wearer's skin, limits the overall size of the device and thus also of the sensors installed on it. The transmission module for transmitting the acquired data is well known in the art and does not need to be described separately.

[0027] In another embodiment of the mobile device for recording measurement parameters, at least one sensor determines the amino acid concentration in sweat. This possibility has been known for a long time. However, a gas chromatograph is usually used to determine the concentration. In this embodiment of the invention, the absorption spectrum / emission spectrum of the respective amino acid is measured, thereby determining its presence and concentration in the sweat. Some amino acids absorb in the UV range. In this case, it is advisable to collect the sweat in a container provided by another device so that the actual measurement can be performed when the device is not being worn by the wearer. For example, valine absorbs at approximately 204, 328, and 384 nm. The other amino acids, including branched-chain amino acids, exhibit similar absorption behavior.

[0028] In this process, very simply described, UV light is directed into the sweat and the amount of backscattered light is measured. The UV light is reflected, scattered, and parts are absorbed, so that certain wavelengths can no longer be detected.

[0029] Using specific light wavelengths, you can now select the exact substance you want to detect in sweat. For example, the various amino acids, but also oxygen, ammonium, carbon dioxide, alcohol, sugar, and various other metabolic products and their derivatives.

[0030] In a further embodiment, additional emitters and the associated sensors are attached to the mobile device according to the invention so that measurements can also be taken in a different spectral range. It is known that the emitter as well as the sensor can be specific to a certain bandwidth of the electromagnetic spectrum. This allows selective measurement of certain electromagnetic wavelengths. The measured signal can be generated by reflection, absorption, and refraction of the radiation waves in the tissue. Each signal can be used for evaluation, and information can be obtained from it. Of course, strict attention must be paid to ensuring that only radiation that is harmless to the body is used. Here, too, the time difference between emission and detection can be measured and evaluated to obtain additional information.

[0031] In another embodiment of the present inventive device, it comprises a sensor for detecting acetone and / or carbon dioxide and / or ammonium. &

[0032] High concentrations of ketone bodies, such as acetone, acetoacetate, and ß-hydroxybutyrate, indicate possible diabetes mellitus and alcohol abuse as relevant metabolic disorders. ß-Hydroxybutyrate is formed from acetoacetate by reduction in the mitochondria. These two substances are energy-rich substrates that are available for metabolism primarily by the liver and then by other organs. Acetone is a breakdown product of acetoacetate, from which it is largely formed by spontaneous decarboxylation. While reciprocal biotransformation is possible with ß-hydroxybutyrate and acetoacetate, acetone cannot be further metabolized and can therefore only be excreted via urine and respiration. This is why it is responsible for the typical odor of patients with ketoacidotic metabolic states. It is therefore exhaled. However, diabetic ketoacidosis is considered a serious complication of diabetes mellitus.It is characterized by elevated glucose concentrations, elevated ketone body levels, and the resulting metabolic acidosis. Ketoacidosis is triggered by neglected insulin administration, inadequate insulin doses, dietary errors, infections, and the new onset of diabetes. Therefore, a timely warning is valuable and life-saving.

[0033] Acetone can be measured using a Cat-Ex, IR, or PID sensor, among others. Ammonium is best measured using a Cat-Ex or PID sensor.

[0034] Carbon dioxide is best measured with an IR sensor.

[0035] The PID sensor (photoionization detector) works as follows:

[0036] Air is drawn in through the gas inlet and fed into the measuring chamber. There, a UV lamp generates photons that ionize specific molecules in the gas stream.

[0037] A relatively high energy is required to ionize the permanent gases in the air, such as noble gases, nitrogen, oxygen, carbon dioxide, and water vapor, so these gases do not interfere with the measurement of pollutants. Most organic substances known as pollutants (e.g., hydrocarbons) are ionized and exposed to the electric field between the electrodes of the measuring chamber. The strength of the resulting current is directly proportional to the concentration of ionized molecules in the detector chamber. This allows a statement to be made about the concentration of the pollutant in the air. The CAT-Ex sensor works as follows:

[0038] A platinum coil is embedded in a porous ceramic sphere with a diameter of less than 1 mm. A current flows through the platinum coil, heating the pellistor to several hundred degrees. If the pellistor contains suitable catalyst material, its temperature will increase in the presence of flammable gases, as the flammable gases and vapors are catalytically combusted there, which in turn increases the resistance of the platinum coil. The change in resistance can then be electronically evaluated. The oxygen required for combustion is taken from the ambient air. The sensor operates according to the catalytic reaction principle.

[0039] The IR sensor implements the following principle:

[0040] The ambient air to be monitored enters the measuring cuvette by diffusion or pump. Broadband radiation from the emitter enters the cuvette through a window, is reflected by the mirrored walls, and after passing through a window, falls onto the dual detector. This consists of a measuring and reference detector. If the gas mixture contains a proportion of hydrocarbons, for example, part of the radiation is absorbed, and the measuring detector delivers a reduced electrical signal. The signal from the reference detector remains unchanged. Fluctuations in the emitter's power, contamination of the mirror and windows, and interference from dust or aerosol contamination in the air affect both detectors equally and are fully compensated.

[0041] In a particular embodiment of the device according to the invention, it is designed as a finger ring. The design of the mobile device for recording vital parameters as a ring clearly has the advantages of portability, small size, and ease of handling, as the ring is easy for the wearer to slip on, is easily accessible to the wearer or another person, and is therefore simple to use. This can be supplemented by other mobile devices that also take measurements and forward the acquired data via a transmission module for processing. Finger and ear clips are conceivable in this context. Bracelets and chest straps are suitable for use. In principle, the devices according to the invention are to be worn at those parts of the body that allow meaningful measurements. The mobile devices do not have to be worn all day.Some measurements only need to be taken once a day, so there is no reason to burden yourself with all of the sensors mentioned above all day long.

[0042] Every person's metabolism serves to maintain vital bodily functions. This process also produces substances that the metabolism cannot further utilize and are therefore excreted. If physical malfunctions or deficiencies exist, substances are produced that should not be present in this form and in these quantities. Some of these substances remain in the body, while others are excreted. Excretion can occur via the breath or through the skin. The substances can be gaseous or dissolved. The partial pressure of a gas in the blood can be measured via the breath or on the surface of the skin. In any case, they can be measured. The excretion of acetone or other ketone bodies through the skin indicates possible malfunctions (diabetes). These substances should actually continue to be "burned off" in the body and not be sweated out in large quantities through the skin.This allows for early diagnosis and treatment of potential ketoacidosis. Ammonium, another blood gas, can also be detected in exhaled air or in dissolved form. Measuring the ammonium concentration allows for all analyses that would otherwise rely on determining blood urea concentration. Carbon dioxide measurement is also possible using both methods. Respiration and oxygen saturation are examined and assessed. An increase in carbon dioxide concentration may indicate insufficient or even absent respiration.

[0043] The final measurement of type 2 diabetes by the sensors, followed by analysis of the measurement data and a control algorithm in an external device or smartphone, can be used to control an insulin pump, for example, via a Bluetooth connection.

[0044] A conceivable method for thoroughly determining individual daily body parameters is a combination of a more complex check, usually performed in the morning, followed by a periodic or continuous selective check. The thorough check can be performed using a variety of devices, while the selective check is performed "only" using appropriate devices that do not hinder the wearer's activities. The currently measured data are always compared with other previously available test data. This allows any deviations to be identified and assessed.

[0045] In a further embodiment of the invention, the device has a rapid alarm module that, when certain measured data are present, emits a signal that can be recognized by the wearer of the device. This module can and must be viewed very critically, since an alarm inherently also creates stress for its wearer. However, there are 77

[0046] Situations in which an alarm is useful for the wearer and those around them. Microsleep, caused by oxygen deprivation and sleep deprivation, is preceded by certain measurable symptoms. If these are detected by the sensors and the wearer has activated the alarm function, they will be awakened. This can be done via a vibration module, an acoustic alarm, or something similar.

[0047] In a very special embodiment of the ring according to the invention, it is characterized in that the ring has an upper section, a lower section, two lateral sections, and an alignment means. The alignment means is designed such that the ring can only rest on the wearer's respective finger in a specific orientation when worn. The orientation places the upper section of the ring on the back of the finger and the lower section of the ring on the inside of the finger, and the ring has at least one sensor on one of the lateral sections. The alignment means, in combination with the carefully selected arrangement of the sensor, support the acquisition of the measurement data. The measurements taken on the edge of the finger, i.e. on the side of the finger, benefit from the delicate, permeable skin that is free of calluses and corns and also has no disturbing hair growth.Vital sign measurements can be taken without interference here. Measurement accuracy therefore increases at this point. However, the alignment device must also ensure that the lateral position of the sensor is precisely maintained while worn.

[0048] The alignment means can, for example, be realized via the (outer) contour or shape of the ring. The term contour here refers in particular to the course of the outer boundary of the ring body in a cross-sectional area that is orthogonal to the rotational or central axis of the inner boundary of the ring body. The “inner boundary” is the area that contacts the skin of the finger when worn. The ring can also, for example, have lateral flanks or at least partially straight side surfaces, against which a finger adjacent to the finger on which the ring is worn can rest, in order to limit the ring’s ability to rotate circumferentially around the finger.Alternatively or cumulatively, it can be provided that the ring (body) is thicker (with a greater wall thickness and / or a larger cross-sectional area) in the upper section and / or in the lower section of the ring than in at least one of the lateral sections. Furthermore, it can be provided that the ring has a curvature in at least one of the lateral sections or in both lateral sections that is less than the curvature in the upper section and / or the lower section of the ring.

[0049] Furthermore, an additional weight can be arranged in the lower section as an alignment means, either alternatively or cumulatively. This weight can be attached to the ring body (e.g., molded onto it) and / or integrated into it. During regular wear, the additional weight can help ensure that the ring remains in the desired alignment during wear, or at least returns to it.

[0050] As an alignment means, a second (or third) ring can also be coupled to the ring according to the invention, thus preventing a change in position. These two rings are arranged relative to one another such that their central axes are aligned parallel to one another. This second (or third) ring can be worn on a finger adjacent to the one on which the ring is worn, thus contributing to fixing the alignment of the ring on the finger. All of these individual embodiments demonstrate the importance and relevance of the alignment means, which ensures that the position of the ring on the wearer's finger always remains constant and rests in a location that allows for high measurement accuracy from the sensor.

[0051] The function of the alignment device, which is available in many different designs, can be supported by a precise fit of the ring on the wearer's finger. The shape, size, thickness, and length of fingers vary from person to person. Custom-made products can be made, but there may also be options for manually adjusting the ring size. However, ideas for enlarging or reducing the ring size are already known, so that everyone can get a perfectly fitting ring. It is also possible to equip the interior of the ring with an expansion area or an elastic material so that it automatically adapts to the finger circumference. The expansion area can be created by a ring segment or a ring section in the circumferential direction of the ring.

[0052] An inner layer or ply of the ring can also form an expansion zone. The inner (expansion) layer usually forms the surface that rests on the fingertip. This layer or ply can extend completely around the inner circumference of the ring or only around part of the inner circumference. Furthermore, the expansion properties can be at least partially improved with an expandable and / or elastic material, such as an elastic plastic (rubber, caoutchouc, etc.). Alternatively or additionally, a material known as "liquid wood" can be used for the expandable and / or elastic material. Liquid wood is a biomaterial made primarily from the two wood components lignin and cellulose.It is particularly advantageous for medical and / or clinical applications, as it allows the production of ring bodies that are as sterile as possible and have advantageously smooth surfaces. Other materials such as metal or plastic may require additional antiseptic treatments, such as coatings, to prevent allergies, for example. Surprisingly, it has been found that such treatments are not necessary for ring bodies made from liquid wood. Ring bodies made from liquid wood can particularly preferably be produced using three-dimensional printing or an additive, layer-by-layer manufacturing process. To produce liquid wood, for example, lignin can be mixed with natural fibers (cellulose, flax, hemp, or other fiber plants) and / or natural additives, resulting in a fiber composite material that is particularly processable under increased temperature and / or pressure.

[0053] Furthermore, the rings or ring bodies can be manufactured in various standard ring sizes. This is particularly advantageous for industrially manufactured products and is easy to implement if production volumes allow it.

[0054] Additional sensors can also be arranged on the side sections or on the upper or lower sections of the ring to ensure uninterrupted measurement results. A motion sensor, an acceleration sensor, and a position sensor further support the evaluation of the acquired data, as they can be used to determine, among other things, the wearer's activities.

[0055] In a further embodiment of the present invention, it is equipped with a vibration sensor. The background to the introduction of the vibration sensor is the assumption that there is a connection between Parkinson's disease and diabetes. However, the exact biochemical mechanisms are still unclear.

[0056] Parkinson's disease is the second most common neurodegenerative movement disorder. Currently, the diagnosis is made solely clinically based on motor symptoms. A wide range of examination methods are necessary to enable early detection, objective monitoring of treatment and disease progression, and improved differential diagnosis. In all phases of the disease, the objective recording of motor symptoms plays a crucial role in treatment and thus influences the course of the disease and the patient's quality of life. One approach to assessing the symptoms of Parkinson's disease is computer-assisted biometric analysis of hand function. Specific movement exercises are recorded and measured. Mathematical features are extracted, classified, and evaluated from the measured sensor data.Biometric analysis of hand function can detect minimal changes in upper extremity motor function in Parkinson's disease, providing objective support for a physician's diagnosis. This, combined with other options, including speech analysis, can support early detection of diabetes and Parkinson's symptoms or initiate a more in-depth examination.

[0057] In another embodiment of the invention, it is characterized by having a sensor for measuring skin conductivity. The electrical conductivity of the skin is measured. This is a method for measuring electrodermal activity (EDA). EDA is a frequently used measurement because it is non-invasive and responds quickly to emotional and psychological stimuli. Galvanic skin response measurement can help detect the onset of seizures. This is achieved by continuously measuring the wearer's stress level. If a stress peak is measured, this can warn of the onset of a seizure or even a stroke.

[0058] In a further embodiment of the invention, the device is constructed in such a way that the individual sensors on the circuit board can be easily replaced. In the case of the ring as a mobile device, it is advisable to configure the ring body in such a way that the part of the ring containing the sensors can be opened. The individual sensors are attached to the circuit board using a plug-in mechanism. This means that damaged sensors can be easily replaced, or sensors with different functions can be swapped around. This enormously increases the bandwidth and variety of measurements. It is not necessary to measure every measured value every day. A modular design with sensors that can be replaced via plug-in connections ensures problem-free sensor replacement and increases the functional variability and maintenance of the device.Furthermore, the alignment and stability of the ring in this position is supported by a substantially rectangular cross-sectional shape in the upper section of the ring. The cross-section in this context refers in particular to a plane that is parallel and / or tangential to the central axis of the inner boundary of the ring body. Furthermore, this plane can be orthogonal to a (perforated) axis of the ring (vertical axis) that runs through the lower section and through the upper section of the ring. This substantially rectangular cross-sectional shape can contribute to the alignment of the ring and thus also form at least part of the alignment means.

[0059] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the ring and its shape, it is proposed that the sensor arranged in the lateral section be positioned within an angular range of 60° to 120°, preferably from 70 to 110°, and particularly preferably from 75° to 105°. The angle specification refers to a (hole) axis of the ring (vertical axis) that runs through the lower and upper sections of the ring. The angular range lies in a plane that is orthogonal to the rotational or central axis of the inner boundary of the ring body.

[0060] Since the ring is a medical device, it also has to meet stringent flight safety requirements according to medical standards. The ring and at least one sensor together form a medical system, which can also be supplemented with additional components.

[0061] In another embodiment, the ring is made of a flexible material and is designed without a closure, allowing it to easily adhere to the finger and accommodate finger size differences. The opening can be located on the side of the ring or elsewhere. It is only necessary to ensure that the open-ended ring adapts to the wearer's finger while still sitting firmly and securely on the finger.

[0062] One possible system is the interaction of the ring with an assistant, a smartphone, a PDA or similar device and a connection to a network of the competence centers described above. The ring itself can communicate with the assistant via a radio connection, but it can also transmit the data directly to the network of competence centers. The ring can store the measured values ​​and data itself and even generate further information using software. It can also send the measured values, data and information to the assistant, which then further processes and saves them, or simply forwards them itself. The only important thing is that the interaction of the system components functions smoothly and that the measured values ​​are recorded, processed and interpreted without interruption so that feedback is then transmitted to the ring wearer promptly. The measured values ​​and data can also be stored on external storage devices.USB interfaces on the ring and / or on the assistant are ideal here.

[0063] The following example is for illustrative purposes only and is not intended to be limiting.

[0064] For example, a network can consist of at least one ring according to the invention described here, which can be worn on a person's finger, and a clinical control center, wherein the ring is configured to transmit at least one recorded measured value to the clinical control center. The clinical control center can be, for example, a digital administration facility of a hospital or a ward of a hospital or clinic. On a display of the clinical control center, data from several rings, which transmit measured values ​​or vital parameters to the clinical control center, can be visualized, for example, at least partially in parallel or simultaneously. If necessary, the visualization of the data can take place depending on the relevance of the data and / or depending on the state of health that this data describes.If the rings only transmit measured values, it can be provided that the hospital control center evaluates the measured values ​​for one or more of the rings in order to determine vital parameters and / or make them visualizable. Alternatively or in addition to a display in the hospital control center, the measured data from the rings can also be transmitted directly or via the hospital control center to portable computers (tablets) used by the hospital staff. In the latter case, the evaluation can be carried out by the hospital control center or directly on the portable computers. In other words, this means in particular that the hospital control center can assess the measured data transmitted to it by one or more rings (raw data measured by the respective ring). Furthermore, it can be provided that the hospital control center issues a signal in the event of unusual data. The signal can, for example, be visualized on a central computer or display in the hospital control center and / or if necessary.can also be output directly acoustically. Particularly in the rehabilitation sector, an assessment can be carried out by a mobile application (so-called "app") implemented on a portable computer (tablet) or smartphone belonging to the hospital or rehabilitation staff, as an alternative or in addition to the assessment via the hospital control center. This application can also cause the portable computer or smartphone to emit an acoustic signal if unusual data is detected. In addition, a traffic light system can be implemented in the hospital control center and / or the mobile application, which allows a conclusion to be drawn about the condition of the respective ring wearer (e.g., through a traffic light system: green: everything is fine; yellow: no threatening situation, but change; red: it is urgent). In principle, an evaluation or assessment by a mobile application (so-called "app") implemented on a portable computer (tablet) or smartphone belonging to the ring wearer is also conceivable.To avoid the risk of the ring wearer (possibly accidentally) setting their mobile device to silent, thus preventing an acoustic signal from being emitted, the application can be configured to automatically initiate a rescue procedure via the application upon detection of a medically critical situation (a red light situation in the traffic light system), for example, by placing an emergency call to an emergency control center. This can occur, in particular, if the wearer does not respond within a specified time period (e.g., 10 minutes) to a request from the application, for example, to touch and / or move a specific button and / or enter a specific code.

[0065] The measured values, information, and data are evaluated by suitable software. It is, of course, important to know the time, location, and activity in order to analyze and interpret the measured values ​​as accurately as possible. Odor sensors and pressure sensors can supplement the measurement results.

[0066] For this, additional tools are needed, which do not necessarily have to be present on the ring, but can also be present on the assistant.

[0067] For example,

[0068] • a position sensor,

[0069] • an alignment sensor,

[0070] • an acceleration sensor,

[0071] • a microphone and

[0072] • a loudspeaker complements the system and also collects data or records and outputs information and / or either evaluates it itself or passes it on to the network of competence centers for evaluation.

[0073] The position sensor and orientation sensor indicate the wearer's position, allowing conclusions to be drawn about their actions, just as location and time can help explain the activities. Pattern recognition and context recognition can thus increase the accuracy of the measurements. The necessary software can be provided.

[0074] The inventive system presented here can be carried out according to a method for recording and evaluating measurement and vital parameters, which comprises at least the following steps: a) providing a ring as described here which can be worn on a finger of a person and with which at least one measured value is recorded, b) transmitting the at least one measured value from the ring to an evaluation device, c) evaluating the at least one measured value in order to record a vital parameter of the person.

[0075] The specified order of steps a), b), and c) is merely exemplary. Steps a), b), and c) can be performed at least once in the specified order. Alternatively or cumulatively, steps a), b), and c) can also be performed at least partially in parallel or even simultaneously. In particular, measurements are taken with the ring at least every four seconds. The associated measurement results (vital parameters) are preferably evaluated (accurately) to at least four decimal places. This advantageously allows the medical plausibility of the measurement results to be determined.

[0076] According to a further aspect, the use of a ring described here, which can be worn on a human finger, is also proposed for recording at least one measured value from which a vital parameter of the human can be derived. The ring is preferably worn on an index finger, middle finger, or ring finger. This allows the ring to be advantageously protected by at least one outer finger on each side. The details, features, and advantageous embodiments discussed in connection with the ring can also occur accordingly in the network, method, and / or use presented here, and vice versa. In this respect, reference is made in full to the explanations therein for a more detailed characterization of the features.

[0077] All of the features of the ring according to the invention or a similar device that can record vital parameters presented so far demonstrate the high relevance of the invention for health prevention, maintenance, and determination. The technical devices and components mentioned in this application are fundamentally developed and interact so optimally that they are medically relevant. This has been confirmed by expert opinions, and medical approval is currently being examined. The similar devices mentioned above refer to sensors for measuring vital parameters on the ankles, sternum, or neck. The exact position of the sensor-bearing device depends very strongly on the respective individual and can therefore only function optimally if it has been optimally and individually adjusted and adapted to the respective wearer.

Claims

Patent claims 1. Mobile device for recording measurement parameters, characterized in that the device has a sensor for detecting substances in sweat or breath.

2. Mobile device for recording measurement parameters according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it has at least one transmission module for transmitting the acquired data.

3. Mobile device for recording measurement parameters according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it has sensors for measuring amino acids.

4. Mobile device for detecting measurement parameters according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the device has a sensor for detecting acetone and / or carbon dioxide and / or ammonium.

5. Mobile device for detecting substance concentrations and vital parameters according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the device which rests on or is worn on the body of the wearer • at least one sensor for detecting one of the following substances, namely ammonia, carbon dioxide, ketone bodies such as acetone, acetoacetate, and ß-hydroxybutyrate, and amino acids such as isoleucine, leucine, valine, tyrosine and phenylalanine and / or lysophosphatide cholines, acylcarnitine, glycine, 2-aminoadipic acid, or 1,5-anhydroglucitol and / or at least one sensor for measuring vital parameters and the information derived therefrom, such as temperature, heart rate, respiratory rate, blood oxygen saturation and others, • has at least one transmission module for transmitting the acquired data.

6. Mobile device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it has a vibration sensor.

7. Mobile device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it has a sensor for measuring skin conductivity.

8. Mobile device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the individual sensors are mounted on the circuit board in such a way that they can be easily replaced.

9. System comprising at least one mobile device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein said device interacts with at least one further device for recording measurement or vital parameters and the data obtained by said system are transmitted via the transmission module.

10. Mobile device for recording vital parameters according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the mobile device is designed as a finger ring, the ring having an upper section, a lower section, two lateral sections and an alignment means, and the alignment means being designed such that the ring only rests on the respective finger of the wearer in a certain orientation when worn, the orientation placing the upper section of the ring on the back of the finger and the lower section of the ring on the inside of the finger, and the ring having at least one sensor on one of the lateral sections.

11. Ring according to one of claims 1 to 8 and 10, characterized in that the ring body is partially made of an elastic material, in particular liquid wood.

12. Monitoring system consisting of the device according to one of claims 1 to 11, an assistant with a radio connection module for establishing communication with the ring and a competence center.

13. Monitoring system comprising the device according to one of claims 1 to 11 equipped with software for automatic pattern and context recognition.

14. Method for recording vital parameters using a device according to claims 1 to 11.

15. Use of the mobile device for the detection of diabetes.

16. Use of the device according to claims 1 to 11 for recording vital parameters and / or their evaluation.