System for measuring a parameter representative of the physiological and cerebral state of an animal

Abstract

Disclosed is a system for measuring a parameter representative of the physiological and cerebral state of an animal, comprising an embedded system (2). The embedded system comprises, in a full configuration, a plurality of sensors (8) and, in a partial configuration, only one sensor. One of the sensors is a sensor of a neurophysiological electrical potential. The measuring system also comprises a remote system (3) implementing a characterizing computer module (17) that determines a value of the parameter representative of the physiological and cerebral state on the basis of measurement data relating to the neurophysiological electrical potential, of second measurement data in the full configuration, and of a rule that is predefined by learning and defines a relationship between the parameter representative of the physiological and cerebral state, measurement data relating to the neurophysiological electrical potential, and second measurement data.

Description

System for measuring a parameter representative of the physiological and cerebral state in animals FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to systems for measuring a parameter representative of the physiological and cerebral state in animals.

[0002] The animal in question may or may not be a human being. TECHNOLOGICAL BACKGROUND

[0003] Whether or not an animal is capable of expressing itself, it is difficult to objectively assess its brain state. Various measurement technologies can be used to determine brain activity parameters. The electroencephalogram is a typical example of such technology. It has also been noted that measuring physiological phenomena can be used to interpret brain activity.

[0004] WO 2010 / 134,068 describes a measurement system comprising an electrocardiogram, a two-channel electroencephalogram of the forehead, a photoplethysmogram ("PPG") of the index finger of the right hand, an electromyogram of the right trapezius, a thermometer of the back of the right hand, a respiration sensor, a galvanic skin response sensor of the fingers of the right hand, and a blood pressure sensor. The signals are processed to determine an index representative of the pain felt.

[0005] Such a system is encouraging. However, due to the great diversity of the measurement technologies described, it is reserved for implementation in hospitals, on a static patient.

[0006] This constraint limits the application of this system to the characterization of pain likely to be felt by the static patient. It is therefore reserved for very specific cases requiring hospitalization.

[0007] The invention thus aims to democratize such systems. [07a] In another field of application, document US 2008 / 221,401 aims at the detection of emotional states based on physiological responses. In the detailed example, it presents the detection of physiological parameters of an actress about to go on stage. The parameters mentioned are respiratory rate and volume, heart rate and accelerometry. The description associates the variation of these parameters with the anxiety, stress and fear of the actress before going on stage, without however mentioning that the detection of these parameters makes it possible to determine an emotion of the actress. It is stated in one sentence that the comparison of the detected signals with known physiological responses would make it possible to identify states emotional. While the detailed description, as a whole, proposes other types of sensors than those presented in the detailed example, there is no precise description of the measurement of a parameter representative of the physiological and cerebral state using this system. [07b] In another field of application, US 2010 / 240,982 and US7,593,767 aim to diagnose a pathology, namely sleep apnea. These two documents present long lists of sensors that can be used for these purposes. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0008] Thus, the invention relates to a system for measuring a parameter representative of the physiological and cerebral state in the animal, said measuring system comprising: - an on-board system, the on-board system comprising at least one box adapted to be worn by the animal and, . in a complete configuration, at least one first and one second sensor, . in a partial configuration, only one of said at least one first and one second sensor, at least one of which is remote from the housing, and at least one cable each connecting a remote sensor to the housing, at least one of said first and second sensor being a neurophysiological electrical potential sensor repeatedly producing neurophysiological electrical potential measurement data, and at least one of said first and second sensor being a sensor other than the first sensor, and repeatedly producing second measurement data of the animal, and the housing comprising at least one electronic system comprising at least one processor managing said at least one first and one second sensor and a first wireless communication module adapted to communicate wirelessly with a remote system,and at least to repeatedly transmit to the remote system the neurophysiological electrical potential measurement data and the second measurement data, - said remote system, said remote system comprising at least one second wireless communication module adapted to communicate wirelessly with the first wireless communication module of the embedded system, and a processor comprising a first computerized characterization module adapted to determine an index from the neurophysiological electrical potential measurement data or the second measurement data produced in the partial configuration, and a second computerized characterization module adapted to determine a value of the parameter representative of the physiological and cerebral state from the neurophysiological electrical potential measurement data, the second measurement data measurement in the complete configuration, and a predefined rule by learning defining a relationship between the parameter representative of the physiological and cerebral state, neurophysiological electrical potential measurement data and second measurement data.

[0009] Thanks to these provisions, the system can be implemented in an outpatient setting, which is suitable for a large number of current medical procedures. The invention thus allows remote monitoring of the animal, including outside the healthcare facility, and this in a wide variety of its activities, in which its neurophysiological state is likely to vary, much more than for a hospitalized patient.

[0010] Depending on different aspects, it is possible to provide one and / or the other of the characteristics below taken alone or in combination.

[0011] According to one embodiment, the first sensor is a sensor chosen from the list {electroencephalogram, electromyogram, electrocardiogram and electrooculogram}.

[0012] According to one embodiment, the second sensor is a sensor chosen from the list {heart rate sensor, respiratory rate sensor, body temperature and / or internal organ sensor, skin hydration sensor, blood oximetry sensor, capnogram, blood, respiratory and / or intracranial pressure sensor; position or movement sensor}, or a physiological sensor chosen from the list {heart rate sensor, respiratory rate sensor, body temperature and / or internal organ sensor, skin hydration sensor, blood oximetry sensor, capnogram, blood, respiratory and / or intracranial pressure sensor}, or a position or movement sensor.

[0013] According to one embodiment, the parameter representative of the physiological and cerebral state in the animal is representative of the sleep state, the depth of anesthesia, analgesia, epilepsy or pain or a predictive index of awakening. By "sleep state", we refer in particular here to the normal, non-pathological physiological state of sleep.

[0014] According to one embodiment, the neurophysiological electrical potential sensor is an electroencephalogram sensor adapted to measure brain activity in several regions of the animal's brain.

[0015] According to one embodiment, the on-board system comprises a bracelet, a cap, a belt, a helmet, a headpiece, a collar, a harness, a headband or a support carrying the housing.

[0016] According to one embodiment, the embedded system further comprises an environmental conditions sensor repeatedly producing environmental conditions data, and the processor is adapted to determine a value of the parameter representative of the physiological and cerebral state from further the environmental conditions data, said predefined rule by learning defining a relationship between the parameter representative of the physiological and cerebral state, neurophysiological electrical potential measurement data, second measurement data and environmental conditions data.

[0017] According to one embodiment, the processor is adapted to determine a value of the parameter representative of the physiological and cerebral state from, in addition, data on age, sex, medication and / or weight of the animal, said rule predefined by learning defining said relationship in relation in addition to data on age, sex, medication, weight, medical history and / or physical condition.

[0018] According to one embodiment, the first computerized characterization module is adapted to determine said index from, in addition, measurement data produced in the complete configuration. [18a] Thus, according to this architecture, chronologically, the embedded system is used, initially, in full configuration, which makes it possible to determine the parameter representative of the physiological and cerebral state. Then, in a second stage, the embedded system is used in partial configuration, the index being determined based on the measurement data produced during use in full configuration. [18b] According to one embodiment, the second computerized characterization module is adapted to determine the value of the parameter representative of the physiological and cerebral state from, in addition, measurement data in the partial configuration, and a rule predefined by learning defining a relationship between the parameter representative of the physiological and cerebral state, neurophysiological electrical potential measurement data and second measurement data in the complete configuration and measurement data in the partial configuration. [18c] Thus, according to this architecture, chronologically, the embedded system is used, initially, in partial configuration. Then, in a second stage, the embedded system is used in complete configuration, which makes it possible to determine the parameter representative of the physiological and cerebral state by taking into account the prior observation carried out in the partial configuration.

[0019] According to one embodiment, at least one of said computerized characterization modules is adapted to be implemented repeatedly, and the system measurement further comprises a computerized monitoring module adapted to determine an evolution parameter from the repeated values ​​of index and / or parameter representative of the physiological and cerebral state. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0020] Embodiments of the invention will be described below with reference to the drawings, briefly described below:

[0021] Figure 1 is a representative diagram of a system according to one embodiment of the invention.

[0022] Figure 2 is a representative diagram of an embodiment of an embedded system of the system of Figure 1.

[0023] Figure 3 is a representative diagram of one embodiment of a housing of the embedded system of Figure 2.

[0024] Figure 4 is a representative diagram of one embodiment of an embedded system in a complete configuration.

[0025] Figure 5 is a representative diagram of an embodiment of an embedded system in a partial configuration.

[0026] Figure 6 is a representative diagram of one embodiment of a remote system.

[0027] In the drawings, like references designate identical or similar objects. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0028] Figure 1 schematically represents a measurement system 1 according to a first embodiment of the invention. The measurement system 1 comprises an on-board system 2, which will be described in more detail below, and a remote system 3. The on-board system 2 is said to be “on-board” in that it is capable of and intended to be worn by a user. “Worn” is used as a French translation of the English term “wearable”, which could alternatively be translated as “clothed”, although no French translation seems able to be truly faithful to the technical notions conveyed by the term “wearable”. The remote system 3 is said to be “remote” in that it is arranged at a distance from the on-board system 2. A communication system 4 is used to allow the on-board system 2 and the remote system 3 to communicate with each other. The communication system 4 comprises, for example, a wireless communication system.This wireless communication system may comprise a first wireless communication module 25 of the embedded system 2 and a second wireless communication module 26 of the remote system 3 adapted to communicate with each other wirelessly, if necessary via intermediate devices. A wireless communication technology may be used. wire by radio waves, for example short range (less than 150 meters). The remote system 3 comprises for example a communicating computer, a tablet, a smartphone, or so-called “smart” phone or “smartphone” 5 comprising the second communication module.

[0029] Figure 2 more precisely represents an exemplary embodiment of the embedded system 2. The embedded system 2 comprises a housing 6. The housing 6 is permanently or removably assembled to a headband 7. The headband 7 is suitable for the permanent or temporary assembly of the embedded system 2 to the user. The headband 7 comprises for example a flexible band, for example textile, which can surround a part of the user's body, and be fixed thereto, for example by tightening. The headband 7 can thus form all or part of a bracelet, a cap, a collar, a belt, a helmet, a headpiece, a harness, a headband, a support or other.

[0030] The embedded system 2 comprises at least a first sensor 8a. The first sensor 8a is adapted to repeatedly determine a value for a physiological parameter of the user. The first sensor 8a is offset relative to the housing 6. The first sensor 8a comprises a measuring head 9a in contact with or close to the area of ​​the user for which it is desired to determine the value, and electronics 10a used to control the measuring head 9a and / or process the measurements obtained by the measuring head 9a. The electronics 10a are shown in FIG. 3 as arranged inside the housing 6. The housing 6 may for example comprise an outer enclosure 11 inside which is arranged a printed circuit 12 carrying various electronic components including the electronics 10a of the first sensor 8. Alternatively, the measuring head 9a may also comprise a portion of the electronics 10a of the first sensor 8a.

[0031] The measuring head 9a is for example connected to the housing 6 in a wired manner via a cable 13a. A wired connection makes it possible in particular to supply the measuring head 9a with energy, if necessary, and to secure the measuring head to the housing 6. Thus, depending on the embodiments, a control signal of the measuring head is transmitted from the housing 6 to the measuring head 9a, a power supply is transmitted from the housing 6 to the measuring head 9a and / or a measured signal is transmitted from the measuring head 9a to the housing 6 via the cable 13a. The cable 13a is assembled to the housing 6 by a connection system comprising at least one connector 14a secured to the housing 6, for example fixed on or assembled to a printed circuit 12. The connection system is for example a removable connection system by which the measuring head 9a can be alternately assembled or disassembled from the housing 6. Alternatively, the measuring head 9a can be connected to the housing 6 in a non-wired manner. According to this variant, the measuring head 9a may comprise a battery for its power supply. The connection to the housing 6 may be made for example by radio waves, and allow information to be exchanged from the measuring head 9a to the housing 6 and / or from the housing 6 to the measuring head 9a. Alternatively or additionally, the measuring head 9a may be connected to the remote system 3 in a non-wired manner. The connection to the remote system 3 may be made for example by radio waves, and allow information to be exchanged from the measuring head 9a to the remote system 3 and / or from the remote system 3 to the measuring head 9a.

[0032] The embedded system 2 also includes a second sensor 8b. The description just given for the first sensor also applies to the second sensor. The suffix “a” can be used to designate the characteristics specific to the first sensor, and the suffix “b” can be used to designate the characteristics specific to the second sensor.

[0033] The second sensor 8b is adapted to measure a different parameter from the first sensor 8a. Most often, it is a different measurement technology. Thus, a given sensor 8 may comprise several measuring heads implementing the same measurement technology, and whose measurement signals are used together to determine the value of a user parameter, and in this case it is a single sensor within the meaning of this document.

[0034] Depending on the embodiments, the on-board system 2 may comprise sensors other than the first and second sensors. Figures 2 and 3 also show an example in which the housing 6 comprises a first, a second, a third and a fourth connector 14a, 14b, 14c and 14d for connection to four respective sensors. The connectors are for example arranged as far as possible from each other. This configuration makes it possible to improve the ergonomics of the on-board system 2, by facilitating the connection and disconnection of the sensors.

[0035] Each connector 14a-14d is dedicated to a corresponding measuring head 9a-9d. The connectors 14a-14d may have different geometries, to mechanically prevent an inappropriate measuring head from being connected to the wrong connector.

[0036] The printed circuit 12 also carries a processor 15 used to manage the various electronic components of the on-board system 2.

[0037] The embedded system 2 may also include a battery providing electrical power to the system components. The battery may be removable. The embedded system 2 may include a power port to a power source suitable for recharging the battery. Thus, the embedded system may be used several times. hours at a time without needing to be connected to the mains, and can be powered electrically without being removed from the user.

[0038] The on-board system 2 may also include a memory for temporarily storing a certain number of measurements before communication to the remote system 3.

[0039] According to a particular embodiment, the first sensor 8a is a neurophysiological electrical potential sensor. The term "Neurophysiological" here refers to the characterization of the animal's nervous system. According to a first example, the first sensor 8a is an electroencephalogram sensor. This sensor 8a comprises one or more measuring heads 9a intended to be arranged, in use, near the user's brain. For example, non-invasive transcranial measuring heads 9a are used, arranged at certain predetermined locations in the brain. For example, a measuring head 9a is used at the cerebellum, which provides a reference electrical potential used in the context of electrical potential difference measurements of other sensors.

[0040] Each measuring head 9a delivers a signal relating to the electrical potential of the brain area in its vicinity. These signals can be processed to determine various user parameters.

[0041] Alternatively, the first sensor 8a is an electrocardiogram sensor.

[0042] Alternatively, the first sensor 8a is an electromyogram sensor. For example, a non-invasive measurement is implemented by means of measuring electrodes arranged on the user's skin facing the muscles whose activity is to be measured, and the electrical activity associated with the muscular activity is measured.

[0043] Alternatively, the first sensor 8a is an electro-oculogram sensor. For example, pairs of electrodes are used, arranged above and below the eye, and adapted to detect the electrochemical potential of an eye between the cornea and the retina. Alternatively, an electrode is used, arranged on an area of ​​the eye, and a difference in electrical potential is detected relative to a reference potential. The difference in electrical potential may be representative of the movement of the eyeball.

[0044] In these different examples, a neurophysiological electrical potential is detected. This signal can be processed to determine an electrical potential difference, for example by means of a reference electrical potential. Various processing operations can be applied, the resulting signals corresponding to a quantity related to the measured neurophysiological electrical potential.

[0045] According to this first embodiment, the second sensor 8b can be chosen from the sensors described below. The second sensor 8b is a sensor of a physiological parameter or a position or movement sensor.

[0046] The position or motion sensor may comprise one or more of an accelerometer, gyroscope, magnetometer, and is adapted to determine a macroscopic position and / or orientation of the user as a whole or of a part of the user relative to a reference, or a speed or acceleration of this user or part of the user.

[0047] If the second sensor is a physiological parameter sensor, it can be chosen from the list below.

[0048] The second sensor 8b is a heart rate sensor. For example, a photoplethysmograph may be used with a light source having a suitable spectrum, the light being emitted at the measuring head 9b, and the reflected light being detected by the measuring head 9b and then analyzed. The optical characteristics of the reflected light depend on the characteristics of the emitted beam and the heart rate, so that the processing makes it possible to detect the latter. Other measurement technologies are conceivable, such as for example based on a difference in electrical potential linked to the expansion and contraction of the heart chambers.

[0049] The second sensor 8b is a blood pressure sensor. Alternatively, a photoplethysmograph, as described above, can be used, the signals of which are processed to determine blood pressure.

[0050] The second sensor 8b is a respiratory rate sensor. For example, a breathing belt, an exhaled air flow sensor, or a chest pressure sensor can be used.

[0051] The second sensor 8b is a temperature sensor. For example, a thermistor, a thermocouple and / or a semiconductor sensor can be used.

[0052] The second sensor 8b is, for example, a body temperature sensor. For example, an oral, ear, forehead, axillary or contact thermometer can be used to measure skin temperature.

[0053] The second sensor 8b is a temperature sensor of an internal organ, for example a brain temperature sensor. For example, a rectal thermometer, an ear thermometer or an ingestible sensor can be used.

[0054] The second sensor 8b is a skin hydration sensor.

[0055] The second sensor 8b is a blood oximetry sensor. For example, an optical sensor is used, suitable for measuring the absorption of red and infrared light by vascularized tissues.

[0056] The second sensor 8b is a capnogram sensor. For example, a measuring head comprising a carbon dioxide sensor is used, adapted to detect a carbon dioxide concentration in the air exhaled by the user.

[0057] The second sensor 8b is a pressure sensor, suitable for measuring blood pressure, respiratory pressure, intracranial pressure, or other physiological pressure. For example, a piezoresistive sensor, a capacitive sensor and / or a microelectromechanical system sensor are used, suitable for detecting a variation in electrical resistance, electrical capacitance, deformation or stress due to pressure.

[0058] The second sensor 8b is a respiratory airflow sensor. For example, a suitable thermal sensor and / or differential pressure sensor are used to measure a variation in temperature, speed or pressure of the airflow due to the flow rate.

[0059] In the examples presented above, the measuring heads 9 are often arranged at a distance from the housing 6, in other words “remote”, and connected to the housing by wire or not, to limit the inconvenience to the user. Alternatively, however, one or more measuring heads could be directly integrated into the housing 6.

[0060] The embedded system 2 which has just been described is likely to have several configurations.

[0061] According to a first configuration, called “complete”, as shown in FIG. 4, the embedded system 2 comprises a first set of sensors 8. This first set of sensors 8 comprises at least one first neurophysiological electrical potential sensor 8a. This first set of sensors 8 also comprises at least one second sensor 8b other than the first sensor, i.e. implementing a separate measurement technology and / or measuring a physiological, position or movement parameter other than the first sensor.

[0062] According to a second configuration, called “partial”, as shown in Figure 5, the embedded system 2 comprises a second set of sensors 8. The second set of sensors 8 constitutes a subset of the first set of sensors 8 of the first configuration. The list of sensors of the second set of sensors 8 is strictly included in the list of sensors of the first set of sensors 8. The number of sensors of the second set of sensors 8 is strictly less than that of the first set of sensors 8. It is at least equal to one.

[0063] Where appropriate, the on-board system 2 may take one or more other configurations, each characterized by a set of sensors constituting a subset of the first set of sensors 8 of the first configuration.

[0064] Thus, if this description refers to “firsts”, "second" or other configurations of the embedded system 2, these qualifiers are not necessarily linked to a chronological implementation of the configurations in use. The first configuration is the most complete, and the other configurations constitute less complete, or degraded, versions of the first configuration.

[0065] As shown in Figure 6, the remote system 3 comprises a processor 16 adapted to manage the different electronic components of the remote system 3. In particular, the processor 16 can implement a first computerized characterization module 17a determining a value of a parameter representative of the physiological and cerebral state of the user from the measurement data in the first configuration, and from a predefined rule by learning defining a relationship between the parameter representative of the physiological and cerebral state and the measurement data in the first configuration. This parameter representative of the physiological and cerebral state of the user depends both on the detected neurophysiological electrical potential and on another parameter of the user.

[0066] For example, a parameter representative of the physiological and cerebral state is a sleep state of the user, a parameter representative of the depth of anesthesia, analgesia, pain, epilepsy or a predictive index of awakening. With regard to the sleep state, we refer to the normal, non-pathological physiological state of sleep. Sleep is a complex and cyclical process characterized by different stages, such as light sleep, deep sleep and REM sleep, each associated with specific cerebral activities and distinct physiological changes. The sleep state is thus a physiological state characterized by a decrease in cerebral activity and an alteration of consciousness, generally accompanied by a specific posture, a decrease in reactivity to external stimuli and a recovery of energy.Regarding the sleep state, the parameter representing the physiological and cerebral state relates to the quantity, fragmentation, distribution, or their combinations, of sleep states, posture and / or movements during these. In particular, the evolution over several nights can be monitored.

[0067] The processor 16 can also implement a second computerized characterization module 17b determining a value of a user index from measurement data in the second configuration, and from a predefined rule defining a relationship between the index and measurement data in the second configuration. This rule can in particular be defined by learning. If necessary, it also uses measurement data from the first configuration.

[0068] The processor 16 can also access a clock 18 adapted to date the representative parameter and / or the index.

[0069] The processor 16 also comprises a computerized monitoring module 19 adapted to determine a parameter of evolution of the index by applying a predetermined rule to several values ​​of the index spaced in time. This rule can in particular be defined by learning.

[0070] The remote system 3 may include a screen for displaying the value(s) determined by a computerized characterization module.

[0071] The system just described can be used as follows.

[0072] In a first phase, for example pre-operative, the on-board system 2 is placed in its second configuration. This involves connecting at least one measuring head of a sensor to the corresponding connector 14 of the housing 6. The on-board system 2 is worn by the user continuously during this first phase, which can typically last at least six hours. The measurements made by the sensors 8 of the second configuration are regularly sent to the remote system 3, and the second characterization module 17b repeatedly determines the index from this measurement data. Alternatively, the on-board system 2 is worn intermittently during this first phase.

[0073] In a second phase, for example including an intraoperative period, the on-board system 2 is placed in its first configuration. For this, new sensors 8 are connected to the housing 6 without replacing or removing the sensors of the second configuration, and the corresponding measuring heads are placed on the user. In this configuration, at least one sensor is a neurophysiological electrical potential sensor. Thus, the on-board system 2 continues to be worn by the user during the transition from the first to the second phase, and then during the second phase.The measurements made by the sensors 8 in the first configuration are regularly sent to the remote system 3, and the first characterization module 17a repeatedly determines a value of the parameter representative of the physiological and cerebral state of the user from the neurophysiological electrical potential measurement data, the second measurement data, and the predefined rule by learning defining a relationship between the. representative parameter of physiological and cerebral state, neurophysiological electrical potential measurement data and second measurement data.

[0074] In a third phase, for example post-operative, the on-board system 2 is placed in a third configuration. The third configuration may be different from the first configuration. The third configuration may be identical to the second configuration. For this, certain sensors 8 are disconnected from the housing 6 without replacing or removing other sensors. Thus, the on-board system 2 continues to be worn by the user during the transition from the second to the third phase, and then during the third phase. The measurements made by the sensors 8 of the third configuration are regularly sent to the remote system 3, and a suitable characterization module repeatedly determines an index from this measurement data.

[0075] During the first, second and / or third phase, a computerized characterization module can trigger an alert based on the determined index and / or representative parameter value or a variation in this value. The alert triggering rule may, for example, have been determined by learning.

[0076] In particular, the computerized monitoring module 19 can trigger an alert based on the comparison of an index determined during the first phase and an index determined during the third phase. The rule for triggering the alert may, for example, have been determined by learning.

[0077] The cumulative duration of the three phases can range, for example, from 1 day to 100 days, particularly from 1 day to 30 days.

[0078] In the embodiments presented above, the remote system 3 comprises a computer 5 comprising a processor 16 comprising different computerized modules described above. However, alternatively, the remote system 3 may comprise a server 20, as shown in FIG. 1, remote from the smartphone 3, and communicating with it wirelessly, by any suitable technology. The computerized modules described above as part of the processor 16 may partially or completely be part of a processor of the server 20. The server 20 may have greater availability and computing power than the smartphone 5. The remote system 3 may also comprise a visualization system adapted to visualize the values ​​determined by the processors of the remote system 3.This visualization system may include the user's smartphone 5, and / or a visualization system of a health service, doctor or veterinarian accessing information relating to the user.

[0079] Learning phase: In a learning phase, a plurality of users are equipped with the embedded system, each during an observation phase. The following description relates to a user equipped with an embedded system during an observation period. The description is transposable to other users during other observation periods. The embedded system during this observation period may take a single configuration or several successive configurations over time. In addition, depending on the users, the configurations of the embedded systems during the observation periods may be identical or different.

[0080] The sensors 8 measure measurement data during the observation period. Continuously during the observation period and / or at the end thereof, a specialist analyzes the measurement data generated, and labels at least one event thereon. An event can be identified from measurement data from a single sensor, or from a plurality of sensors.

[0081] Labeled measurement data from observation phases are stored in a database.

[0082] A predictive model is generated to predict the occurrence of an event from measurement data from different sensors, from the database. The predictive model is generated, for example, by learning. Different learning techniques can be implemented to establish the predictive model. For example, a part of the labeled measurement data is used as a training database. An initial version of the predictive model is generated. Then the measurement data from another part of the labeled measurement data is given as input to the predictive model, and the latter is modified so that the label predicted for this input data corresponds to the label determined by the specialist.

[0083] This training makes it possible to define a rule defining a relationship between a parameter representative of the physiological and cerebral state (the label defined by the specialist) and the measurement data.

[0084] According to one embodiment, a rule for a configuration of the embedded system takes into account measurements obtained in at least one previous observation phase with another configuration of the embedded system.

[0085] Depending on the implementation methods, in the learning phase, several rules, corresponding to several labels, can be determined.

[0086] A rule can be specific to a given configuration of the embedded system.

[0087] A rule may be specific to a specific sequence of configurations of the embedded system, for example, a first specific configuration followed by a second specific configuration or, in another example, a first specific configuration followed by a third specific configuration with a second non-specific configuration interposed. Another example includes a first specific configuration followed by a second specific configuration and then followed by a third specific configuration.

[0088] In one embodiment, the rule may be specific to a given population of users, defined by parameters of animal breed, age, gender, weight, medical history, physical condition, or other.

[0089] According to one embodiment, the rule can take into account environmental conditions such as, for example, the ambient temperature in which the user is located. This environmental condition is, for example, measured by a dedicated sensor of the embedded system.

[0090] According to one embodiment, the rule may be specific to a given pathology and / or a given medical act, such as a given surgical intervention, a given medication intake or other.

[0091] Generic example

[0092] The method described above is implemented to characterize the effect of a medical intervention on a patient.

[0093] In a period of time preceding the medical intervention, called “first phase”, the patient is continuously equipped with the system according to the invention, in “partial” configuration. The system includes a respiratory rate sensor. The respiratory rate is measured continuously over time during this first phase. A first computerized characterization module regularly processes these measurements according to a first predetermined rule.

[0094] For the medical intervention, called "second phase", the system according to the invention is completed by the addition of an additional sensor, in this case an electroencephalogram sensor, while keeping the respiratory rate sensor in place. A second computerized characterization module regularly processes the measurements from the respiratory rate sensor and the electroencephalogram, according to a second predetermined rule, and determines a parameter representative of the patient's sleep state, as a parameter representative of the physiological and cerebral state, from these measurements.

[0095] In a post-operative phase, called the "third phase", the electroencephalogram sensor is removed from the system according to the invention, while keeping the respiratory rate sensor in place. A third computerized module of characterization regularly processes these measurements according to a third predetermined rule. This third rule makes it possible to characterize the patient's respiratory rate during this phase. A fourth computerized characterization module regularly processes these measurements, as well as the measurements obtained during the second phase, according to a fourth predetermined rule. This fourth rule makes it possible to characterize the patient's respiratory rate during this phase by taking into account the fact that the patient has undergone an intervention, and the quantities measured during this intervention. A fifth computerized characterization module regularly processes these measurements, as well as the measurements obtained during the first phase, according to a fifth predetermined rule.This fifth rule allows the patient's respiratory rate to be characterized during this phase by comparison with the pre-operative respiratory rate, and allows the detection of a potential impact of the intervention. A sixth computerized characterization module regularly processes these measurements, as well as the measurements obtained during the first phase, and those obtained during the second phase, according to a sixth predetermined rule. This sixth rule allows the patient's respiratory rate to be characterized during this phase by taking into account the pre-operative and during-intervention data, and allows the detection of a potential impact of the intervention more precisely.

[0096] Example 1

[0097] Paul, a 65-year-old man, is scheduled for total hip replacement surgery. Paul has a history of asthma and is currently taking medication to control his asthma. In the first phase, Paul is fitted with the system, and his vital signs, including heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen levels, as well as his electroencephalogram, are monitored and recorded. A first rule is applied in case adjustments need to be made to his medication regimen before surgery. A second rule is applied to determine a potential complication that may arise during or after surgery.

[0098] In a second phase, at the hospital, the embedded system is placed in a second configuration by adding sensors. During the operation, the system is used to continuously monitor Paul's vital signs, and a rule is applied to determine the depth of anesthesia. This value is likely to be used by the anesthesiologist to make adjustments to Paul's anesthesia, necessary to ensure his safety and comfort during and after the procedure. For example, when the device indicates a drop in blood oxygen level and a disturbance in the electroencephalogram signal, the anesthesiologist has was able to quickly adjust Paul's breathing, thus avoiding any potential complications. The dosage of anesthesia will also determine the patient's response during the immediate recovery after surgery.

[0099] After surgery, Paul's vital signs are continuously monitored using the system during his recovery period. This ensures that his vital signs remain stable. A rule determines whether the medication dosages are appropriate, and the results can be used to make necessary adjustments to his medication regimen during his recovery. A rule determines an indicator that can be used by medical personnel to determine whether Paul can go home, where he can recover under remote monitoring, or whether his condition is critical and he must remain in the hospital. This is because the system can identify any potential complications that could arise during the recovery period and take the necessary measures. During this recovery period, the embedded system may have been placed in a third configuration.Alternatively, during the setup period, the embedded system remained in the second configuration and then transitioned to a third configuration when Paul left the care facility. Using the system throughout Paul's operation and recovery period resulted in a safer and more efficient operation. LIST OF REFERENCE SIGNS 1: Measurement system 2: Embedded system 3: Remote system 4: Wireless communication system 5: smartphone 6: case 7: headband 8: sensor 9: measuring head 10: electronics 11: pregnant 12: printed circuit board 13: cable 14: connector 15: processor 16: processor 17: computerized characterization module 18: clock 19: computerized monitoring module 20: server 25: first wireless communication module 26: second wireless communication module

Claims

CLAIMS

1. System for measuring a parameter representative of the physiological and cerebral state in the animal, said measuring system comprising: - an on-board system (2), the on-board system comprising at least one box (6) adapted to be worn by the animal and, . in a complete configuration, at least one first and one second sensor (8), . in a partial configuration, only one of said at least one first and one second sensor (8), at least one of which is remote from the housing (6), and at least one cable (13) each connecting a remote sensor (8) to the housing (6), at least one of said first and second sensors (8) being a neurophysiological electrical potential sensor repeatedly producing neurophysiological electrical potential measurement data, and at least one of said first and second sensors (8) being a sensor other than the first sensor, and repeatedly producing second measurement data of the animal, and the housing (6) comprising at least one electronic system comprising at least one processor (15) managing said at least one first and one second sensor (8) and a first wireless communication module (25) adapted to communicate wirelessly with a remote system,and at least to repeatedly transmit to the remote system the neurophysiological electrical potential measurement data and the second measurement data, - said remote system (3), said remote system (3) comprising at least one second wireless communication module (26) adapted to communicate wirelessly with the first wireless communication module (25) of the embedded system (2), and a processor (16) comprising a first computerized characterization module (17) adapted to determine an index from the neurophysiological electrical potential measurement data or the second measurement data produced in the partial configuration, and a second computerized characterization module (17) adapted to determine a value of the parameter representative of the physiological and cerebral state from the neurophysiological electrical potential measurement data, the second measurement data in the complete configuration, and a predefined rule by learning defining a relationship between the parameter representative of the physiological and cerebral state,neurophysiological electrical potential measurement data and second measurement data.,

2. A measuring system according to claim 1, wherein the first sensor (8) is a sensor selected from the list {electroencephalogram, electromyogram, electrocardiogram and electrooculogram}.

3. A measuring system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the second sensor (8) is a sensor selected from the list {heart rate sensor, respiratory rate sensor, body temperature and / or internal organ sensor, skin hydration sensor, blood oximetry sensor, capnogram, blood, respiratory and / or intracranial pressure sensor; position or movement sensor}, or a physiological sensor selected from the list {heart rate sensor, respiratory rate sensor, body temperature and / or internal organ sensor, skin hydration sensor, blood oximetry sensor, capnogram, blood, respiratory and / or intracranial pressure sensor}, or a position or movement sensor.

4. Measuring system according to one of claims 1 to 3, in which the parameter representative of the physiological and cerebral state in the animal is representative of the state of sleep, the depth of anesthesia, analgesia, epilepsy or pain or a predictive index of awakening.

5. A measuring system according to one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the neurophysiological electrical potential sensor is an electroencephalogram sensor adapted to measure brain activity in several regions of the animal's brain.

6. Measuring system according to one of claims 1 to 5, in which the on-board system (2) comprises a bracelet, a cap, a belt, a helmet, a headpiece, a collar, a harness, a headband or a support carrying the housing.

7. Measurement system according to one of claims 1 to 6, in which the on-board system further comprises an environmental conditions sensor repeatedly producing environmental conditions data, and in which the processor (16) is adapted to determine a value of the parameter representative of the physiological and cerebral state from further environmental conditions data, said predefined rule by learning defining a relationship between the parameter representative of the physiological and cerebral state, electrical potential measurement data neurophysiological, second measurement data and environmental conditions data.

8. Measuring system according to one of claims 1 to 7, in which the processor (16) is adapted to determine a value of the parameter representative of the physiological and cerebral state from, in addition, data on age, sex, medication and / or weight of the animal, said rule predefined by learning defining said relationship in relation in addition to data on age, sex, medication, weight, medical history and / or physical condition.

9. Measurement system according to one of claims 1 to 8, in which the first computerized characterization module (17) is adapted to determine said index from, in addition, measurement data produced in the complete configuration, and / or in which the second computerized characterization module (17) is adapted to determine the value of the parameter representative of the physiological and cerebral state from, in addition, measurement data in the partial configuration, and a rule predefined by learning defining a relationship between the parameter representative of the physiological and cerebral state, neurophysiological electrical potential measurement data and second measurement data in the complete configuration and measurement data in the partial configuration.

10. Measurement system according to claims 1 to 9, in which at least one of said computerized characterization modules (17) is adapted to be implemented repeatedly, and further comprising a computerized monitoring module (19) adapted to determine an evolution parameter from the repeated values ​​of index and / or parameter representative of the physiological and cerebral state.

Images