Sensor cable support device including mechanical connectors

Abstract

To provide a sensor cable support device, e.g., for a sensor for a wearable monitoring device.SOLUTION: A sensor cable support device can be used to be implemented in a wearable monitoring device to support a proximal portion of a sensor cable and electrically connect the proximal portion with sensing circuitry. A distal portion of the sensor cable is insertable into a person's skin. The sensor cable support device may include a rigid body defining a pair of openings, a set of legs attached to the rigid body, and a pair of electrical traces extending between the pair of openings and distal ends of a pair of legs of the set of legs. The pair of openings may be sized and configured to receive a pair of pucks that mechanically retain a sensor cable to the body and electrically connect the sensor cable with the electrical traces.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Cross - Reference to Related Applications This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 649,350, filed on Mar. 28, 2018, entitled “Sensor Cable Support Device Including Mechanical Connectors”, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

Background Art

[0002] Invasive biosensors, such as sensors for wearable monitoring devices, include thin sensor wires or electrodes that can be inserted into a patient's skin. A sensing circuit reads biometric information about the patient via the thin wires. To use some devices, a patient or medical professional needs to connect the sensor wire to the sensing circuit. For example, during a first step, the sensor wire can be embedded in the patient's skin, and during a second step, the sensor wire can be connected to the monitoring device. This two - step approach can be very complex for some patients to perform alone and / or too costly to have a medical professional perform. Additionally, such devices can include multiple openings where the wires and sensing circuit can be exposed to potential moisture that can significantly affect the performance of the biosensor.

[0003] It is possible to pre - assemble the sensor wire within the monitoring device. For example, a proximate portion of the sensor wire can be soldered or welded to a printed circuit board within the monitoring device. However, exposure of the sensor wire to such high local temperatures associated with soldering and welding can damage the sensor wire, especially if the sensor wire is coated with a film. Additionally, such an approach can result in a sensor wire that is inappropriately rigid as a result of soldering and / or welding.

[0004] In addition to the above considerations, the size of the monitoring device is a practical consideration for wearable devices. To accommodate the necessary sensing circuits, power sources, etc., and process biological information, a wearable monitoring device can include a plurality of components that are coupled together to form a working device. Using a plurality of components not only makes the device bulky but also creates a plurality of areas (e.g., seals between components) that allow moisture to enter.

Summary of the Invention

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] One general aspect includes a support device for supporting a sensor cable, the support device including a rigid body that defines a pair of openings. Each opening is sized and configured to receive a conductive pack. The rigid body supports the proximal end of the sensor cable and is configured to electrically couple the sensor cable to the sensing circuit of the monitoring device. The support device also includes a set of rigid legs connected to the rigid body and extending away from the bottom side of the rigid body. The support device also includes a first electrical trace that electrically couples the first opening of the pair of openings to the distal end of the first leg of the set of rigid legs. The support device also includes a second electrical trace that electrically couples the second opening of the pair of openings to the distal end of the second leg of the set of rigid legs.

[0006] Another general aspect includes a wearable monitoring device including a printed circuit board disposed within a housing having an outer surface for positioning the wearable monitoring device on a person's skin. The wearable monitoring device also includes a sensing circuit including one or more electronic components connected to the printed circuit board. The wearable monitoring device also includes a sensor holder system including a body having a set of legs extending from one side of the body. The sensor holder system is physically coupled to the printed circuit board via the set of legs. The body has a pair of conductive openings formed therein. The pair of conductive openings are electrically coupled to the printed circuit board. The sensor holder system also includes a sensor cable electrically coupled to the sensing circuit and including a first portion in electrical contact with a first conductive opening of the pair of conductive openings to form a first electrical connection and a second portion in electrical contact with a second conductive opening of the pair of conductive openings to form a second electrical connection. The sensor holder system also includes a pair of packs disposed within the pair of conductive openings such that a first pack of the pair of packs mechanically holds a first portion in electrical contact with the first conductive opening and a second pack of the pair of packs mechanically holds a second portion in electrical contact with the second conductive opening.

[0007] Yet another general aspect includes an analyte monitoring system including a sensor cable including a first portion insertable into a person's skin, the first portion including means for generating glucose information. The analyte monitoring system also includes a sensor holder system including alignment means for physically aligning a second portion of the sensor cable. The sensor holder system also includes holding means for physically holding the second portion of the sensor cable. The sensor holder system also includes support means for physically supporting the alignment means and the holding means. The sensor holder system also includes coupling means for electrically coupling the second portion of the sensor cable to circuitry disposed on a printed circuit board for determining a person's analyte level.

[0008] Yet another general aspect includes a sensor cable support system that includes a sensor cable support device. The sensor cable support device also includes a body having a pair of conductive openings. The sensor cable support device also includes a set of legs extending away from the bottom side of the body. The sensor cable support device includes a pair of electrical traces extending between the pair of conductive openings and the distal ends of the pair of legs of the set of legs. The sensor cable support system also includes a sensor cable that includes a first portion that is in electrical contact with the first conductive opening of the pair of conductive openings to form a first electrical connection. The sensor cable also includes a second portion that is in electrical contact with the second conductive opening of the pair of conductive openings to form a second electrical connection. The sensor cable support system also includes a pair of packs that are installed in the pair of conductive openings such that a first pack of the pair of packs mechanically holds the first portion that is in electrical contact with the first conductive opening, and a second pack of the pair of packs mechanically holds the second portion that is in electrical contact with the second conductive opening.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0009] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated herein and form a part hereof, illustrate one or more specific examples and, together with the description of the examples, serve to explain the principles and implementations of the specific examples.

[0010]

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DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] In this specification, embodiments are described in the context of a sensor cable support device for use in a continuous monitoring device. Those skilled in the art will understand that the following description is merely illustrative and is in no way intended to be limiting. Here, reference is made in detail to the example implementations shown in the accompanying drawings. The same reference numerals are used throughout the drawings and the following description to refer to the same or similar items.

[0012] For clarity, not all of the conventional features of the embodiments described herein are shown and described. Of course, in the development of such an actual implementation, numerous implementation-specific decisions need to be made to achieve the developer's specific goals, such as compliance with application-related and business-related constraints, and these specific goals will be understood to vary from implementation to implementation and from developer to developer.

[0013] In an exemplary embodiment, a wearable glucose monitoring device (e.g., a body-wearable device such as a subcutaneous monitoring device) or system includes a glucose sensor that can be inserted into a person's skin to continuously monitor the person's glucose concentration. While being worn, the wearable glucose monitoring device can be exposed to normal external forces caused by wearing clothes, hitting obstacles, and other external forces. To reduce the effects of these forces and to improve the comfort of the wearer, the installation area and profile of the glucose monitoring device can be reduced. As a method for reducing, the glucose monitoring device described herein includes a sensor cable support device. The sensor cable support device has a unique shape that enables it to perform various functions and further efficiently utilize the space within the glucose monitoring device. The unique shape is defined by a body supported by legs extending from the body. The legs are connected to a printed circuit board ("PCB") on the lower side of the body and function to space the body away from the PCB. The height of the sensor cable support device holds the sensor cable away from the PCB. This allows for the use of a longer sensor cable, which results in a gentler radius of curvature when the sensor cable exits the wearable glucose monitoring device towards the person's skin. Components of the glucose monitoring device, such as integrated circuits and / or other sensing circuits, can be installed on the lower side of the body and within a void formed under the body. In this way, the sensor cable support device provides for an efficient use of the space within the glucose monitoring device (e.g., enables stacking of components and reduces the total installation area of the device).

[0014] Functions performed by the sensor cable support device include structurally supporting the proximal electrode with a glucose sensor included in the sensor cable, aligning the sensor cable of the glucose sensor toward a person's skin, and electrically connecting the electrode to a PCB. The sensor cable support device structurally supports the electrode via a pair of conductive elastomer packs or other similar mechanical connectors inserted into corresponding conductive holes in the body of the sensor cable support device. The conductive pack and hole approach for connecting the electrode avoids potential damage due to exposure of the electrode to high heat. And unlike a method of firmly attaching the electrode to the sensor cable support device, the pack and hole approach provides passive stress relief based on the elastomeric properties and shape of the pack, compared to the electrode and the hole. The pack and hole approach also electrically connects the electrode to the conductive surface adjacent to and / or within the conductive hole. Each hole is electrically connected to the PCB via an electrical trace that extends from the hole, descends a leg, and terminates at the distal end of the leg connected to the PCB. The sensor cable support device also aligns the sensor cable via a set of grooves that extend across the holes. For example, a first groove that extends across a first hole is aligned with a second groove that extends across a second hole. In this way, the first and second coaxial electrodes of the sensor cable can be held within the first and second grooves, respectively. The sensor cable support device is described herein with reference to a wearable glucose monitoring device, but it is understood that the sensor cable support device can be implemented to support any suitable body-worn electromechanical sensor (e.g., a subcutaneous monitoring system, a deep brain stimulation device, a cochlear implant, a cardiac pacemaker, a bioelectric device, and other similar devices).

[0015] In one embodiment, a sensor cable support device is described. The sensor cable support device includes a rigid body having a pair of openings sized and configured to receive conductive packs in each opening. The sensor cable support device also includes a set of legs attached to the rigid body and extending from one side of the rigid body. The set of legs can include one or more members that extend distally from the bottom portion of the rigid body. For example, the proximal portion of the member can be connected to the rigid body under the rigid body. These members can extend away from the lower side in substantially the same direction. When the sensor cable support device is mounted on a mounting surface (e.g., a printed circuit board of a monitoring device), the set of legs supports the rigid body in an orientation spaced from the mounting surface. The set of legs can include members integral with the rigid body, members outside the rigid body but connected or otherwise adhered to the rigid body, and other similar members that extend under the body and between the rigid body and the mounting surface. The sensor cable support device also includes a first electrical trace that electrically couples the first opening of the pair of openings and the distal end of the first leg of the set of legs. For example, the first opening can include a conductive ring within the opening, and the first electrical trace can extend between the conductive ring and the distal end of the first leg. In some embodiments, the first electrical trace is formed on the first leg using a laser direct structuring technique. Thus, the first electrical trace can be visible on the outer surface of the first leg. The sensor cable support device also includes a second electrical trace that electrically couples the second opening of the pair of openings and the distal end of the second leg of the set of legs. The second electrical trace can be similar in design and function to the first electrical trace.

[0016] In another embodiment, a wearable monitoring device is described. The wearable device can include any type of device that can be worn by an individual; can be physically attached to the user by a wearing device such as an adhesive or a clip; can be partially or fully embedded in a person, such as by inserting a portion of the device (e.g., a sensor wire) into the wearer's skin or completely embedding it under the wearer's skin; and so on. The wearable monitoring device includes a printed circuit board disposed within a housing having an outer surface for positioning the wearable monitoring device against a person's skin. The wearable monitoring device also includes a sensing circuit including one or more electronic components connected to the printed circuit board, and a sensor cable support system. The sensor cable support system includes a body having a set of legs extending away from the bottom surface of the body. For example, a set of legs can be proximally connected at the bottom side surface of the body, and the ends can distally extend away from the bottom side surface. A set of legs can also be proximally connected at the outer periphery of the end of the bottom surface, at the peripheral edge of the top side surface, at a set of side walls of the body, and at any other suitable location of the body. In some embodiments, the body has a generally rectangular shape, and each leg of the set of legs extends away from a corner of the bottom side of the body. The sensor cable support device can be physically coupled to the printed circuit board via the set of legs. The body can have a pair of conductive openings formed therein. For example, the conductive openings can be holes extending through the body (e.g., from the top side to the bottom side), and can include conductive plating disposed within and around the periphery of the holes. In some embodiments, a conductive ring is fitted within each opening. The pair of conductive openings can be electrically insulated from each other. Each conductive opening can be electrically coupled to the printed circuit board via an electrical trace extending between the conductive opening and a distal end of one of the legs. The sensor cable support system also includes a sensor cable including two wires electrically coupled to the sensing circuit via first and second electrically insulated electrical connections.The sensor cable includes a first portion of a first wire that is in electrical contact with a first conductive opening of a pair of conductive openings to form a first electrical connection, and a second portion of a second wire that is in electrical contact with a second conductive opening of the pair of conductive openings to form a second electrical connection. The sensor holder system also includes a pair of conductive elastomer packs disposed within the pair of conductive openings such that a first pack of the pair of packs mechanically holds the first portion of the first wire that is in electrical contact with the first conductive opening, and a second pack of the pair of packs mechanically holds the second portion of the second wire that is in electrical contact with the second opening.

[0017] In another embodiment, a glucose monitoring device is described. The glucose monitoring device includes a sensor cable having a first distal portion insertable into a person's skin, the first distal portion including means for generating glucose information (e.g., the distal portions of two or more wires including distal terminals), a sensor cable support system, and a sensor cable support system. The sensor cable support system also includes alignment means for physically aligning a second portion of the sensor cable (e.g., the proximal portions of two or more wires), holding means for physically holding the second portion of the sensor cable, and support means for physically supporting the alignment means and the holding means. The glucose monitoring system also includes coupling means for electrically coupling the second portion of the sensor cable to circuitry disposed on a printed circuit board for determining a person's glucose concentration.

[0018] In another embodiment, a sensor cable support system is described. The sensor cable support system includes a sensor cable support device that includes a body having a pair of conductive openings formed therein. The sensor cable support device also includes a set of legs that extend away from the bottom side of the body. The sensor cable support device further includes a pair of electrical traces that extend between the pair of conductive openings and the distal ends of the pair of legs of the set of legs. The sensor cable system includes a sensor cable that includes a first portion that is in electrical contact with the first conductive opening of the pair of conductive openings to form a first electrical connection, and a second portion that is in electrical contact with the second conductive opening of the pair of conductive openings to form a second electrical connection. The sensor cable support system also includes a pair of packs that are installed in the pair of openings such that a first pack of the pair of packs mechanically holds a first portion of the sensor cable that is in physical contact with the first conductive opening, and a second pack of the pair of packs mechanically holds a second portion of the sensor cable that is in physical contact with the second opening.

[0019] Referring now to the figures, FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate, respectively, a perspective view of a monitoring device 100 and a partially exploded view of the monitoring device 100 including a biosensor 102, according to various embodiments. The monitoring device 100 can be a wearable monitoring device that is attached to the body on an outer surface (e.g., to a person's skin), held against the body on an outer surface, implanted within the body (e.g., subcutaneously beneath a person's skin), or worn in any other suitable manner. The monitoring device 100 includes a top enclosure 104, a bottom enclosure 106, a moisture barrier seal region 108, and a biosensor 102.

[0020] Both the top enclosure 104 and the bottom enclosure 106 form a housing that encloses the biosensor 102 therein. As described herein, a portion of the lower housing (e.g., the bottom enclosure 106) has a substantially planar outer surface that is adapted to position a person's skin. A portion of the upper housing (e.g., the top enclosure 104) includes a smooth outer surface that faces outwardly from a person's skin. A smooth surface that does not include sharp edges may be desirable to reduce the potential for the monitoring device 100 to contact a person's skin when worn. For example, the monitoring device 100 can be worn under clothing (e.g., on a person's arm), and the smooth surface reduces the potential for a person's clothing to catch on the monitoring device 100.

[0021] A biosensor 102, e.g., an analyte sensor, glucose sensor, or other electromechanical sensor for use in detecting a person's biometric information, includes a sensor cable support device 110, a sensor cable 112, a sensing circuit 114, a power source 116 such as a battery, a printed circuit board (“PCB”) 118, and an antenna 120. The sensor cable 112 includes a proximal end portion 112a and a distal end portion 112b (see FIG. 6). The proximal end portion 112a is supported by the sensor cable support device 110. For example, the proximal end portion 112a can be disposed within a groove or channel of the sensor cable support device 110 and physically retained by packs 122a, 122b. The proximal end portion 112a is also electrically connected to the PCB 118 via the sensor cable support device 110. For example, as described in detail herein, the sensor cable support device 110 can include a set of electrical traces that extend proximally within the sensor cable support device 110 toward the PCB 118. A cable alignment structure 126 can also be integrated into the sensor cable support device 110. For example, an elongate cylindrical leg can be formed within the sensor cable support device 110 through which the sensor cable 112 can be extended such that it passes through the PCB 118. In use, the distal end portion 112b, which includes one or more electrodes, is inserted into a person's skin to measure a biological parameter (e.g., glucose concentration) of interstitial fluid in the subcutaneous tissue under the skin.

[0022] The sensor cable 112 can include a curved portion that extends through the PCB 118 and the bottom opening 124 of the bottom enclosure 106. As illustrated, the cable alignment structure 126 is included in the PCB 118 at a position adjacent to the bottom opening 124. The cable alignment structure 126 can include a pair of tabs, grooves, or other structures capable of aligning the sensor cable 112 through the bottom opening 124. The cable alignment structure 126 can be a component attached to the PCB 118 or integrated into the structure of the bottom enclosure 106 (e.g., it can be formed simultaneously using the same technique used to form the bottom enclosure 106). The top enclosure 104 includes a top opening 127 disposed above the bottom opening 124. An insertion needle can be inserted through the top opening 127 to inject the distal portion 112b of the sensor cable 112 under a person's skin. In some embodiments, the top opening 127 is formed of a deformable material that can be resealed after the insertion needle is inserted therethrough. In this way, the sensor cable 112 can be injected without disturbing the moisture seal of the top enclosure 104.

[0023] In some embodiments, placing the insertion needle within the bottom opening 124 while pressing the monitoring device 100 against a person's skin can achieve proper alignment of the insertion needle and insert the sensor cable 112 into the person's skin. In some embodiments, the bottom opening 124 includes a sensor guiding structure that can be used to guide the insertion needle through the monitoring device 100.

[0024] The sensor cable support device 110 supports the sensor cable 112 and, in some embodiments, can be suitably rigid to provide structural support to the PCB 118. For example, the sensor cable support device 110 can be formed from a liquid crystal polymer. In some embodiments, the PCB 118 can be a flexible printed circuit board (“FPCB”). In this embodiment, attaching the sensor cable support device 110 to the PCB 118 can add rigidity to the entire monitoring device 100 in addition to the flexible PCB 118.

[0025] The sensor cable support device 110 can be regarded as an interconnecting device. For example, since the sensor cable support device 110 can stand away from the PCB 118 and also stand over the components (such as the sensing circuit 114, the power supply 116, etc.) disposed thereunder, the sensor cable support device 110 functions to save space within the monitoring device 100. This can result in a monitoring device 100 having a smaller installation area. Additionally, due to the configuration of the sensor cable support device 110 with respect to the PCB 118, the PCB 118 can be disposed closer to a person's skin unlike other monitoring devices that include standoff fixtures. This provides improved wearer comfort and less overall device bulk.

[0026] In some embodiments, the sensing circuit 114 includes one or more electronic components configured for signal processing. For example, the sensing circuit 114 can include a system-on-chip ( "SOC") or a system-in-package ( "SIP") that includes any suitable combination of components for digital signal processing, analog signal processing, mixed signal processing, etc., which can be present on the surface of the PCB assembly or embedded. Such components can include, for example, a microcontroller, memory, a timing source, one or more digital interfaces, one or more analog interfaces, a clock, a voltage regulator, and / or any other suitable components. The sensing circuit 114 can receive an electrical signal from the sensor cable 112 (e.g., via the PCB 118 and the sensor cable support device 110) and process the electrical signal to determine a person's glucose concentration.

[0027] In some embodiments, the sensing circuit 114 includes a processing device and a computer-readable medium such as a random access memory ( "RAM") coupled to the processing device. The processing device can execute computer-executable program instructions stored in the memory, such as executing one or more computer programs. Such a processing device can include a microprocessor, a digital signal processor ( "DSP"), an application-specific integrated circuit ( "ASIC"), a field-programmable gate array ( "FPGA"), a state machine, or other processing means for processing electrical signals received from the electrodes of the sensor cable 112 (see, for example, FIG. 5). Such processing means can further include a programmable electronic device such as a PLC, a programmable interrupt controller ( "PIC"), a programmable logic device ( "PLD"), a programmable read-only memory ( "PROM"), an electronically programmable read-only memory ( "EPROM" or "EEPROM"), or other similar devices.

[0028] The processing device can include, or be in communication with, a medium, such as a computer-readable storage medium, that stores instructions which, when executed by the processing device, cause the processing device to perform the steps described herein that are to be executed or assisted by the processing device. Examples of computer-readable media include, but are not limited to, memory chips, ROM, RAM, ASICs, or any other storage means from which the processing device can read or write information.

[0029] Antenna 120 can enable the transmission of information from monitoring device 100 (e.g., to one or more electronic devices). For example, a transceiver included in sensing circuit 114 or otherwise can use antenna 120 to transmit in real time the glucose indication value monitored by biosensor 102. The transceiver can also use antenna 120 to receive information from one or more other electronic devices (e.g., instructions for adjusting the settings of biosensor 102, updates to the software or firmware of biosensor 102, etc.).

[0030] Both top enclosure 104 and bottom enclosure 106 can form a housing for holding biosensor 102 with moisture barrier 108 disposed therebetween. The housing can be of a compact size for placement on a person's skin. The housing can be made of any suitable material for housing biosensor 102. Non-limiting examples of materials that can be suitable for the housing include silicone, polyethylene, polyvinyl chloride (“PVC”), polypropylene, nylon, polyurethane, polycarbonate, steel, aluminum, and other plastics and metals.

[0031] The bottom enclosure 106 can include a substantially planar surface to enable the monitoring device 100 to be placed against a person's skin. The monitoring device 100 can be secured to the skin using an adhesive, band, strap, or other securing means. In some embodiments, the monitoring device 100 can be worn for an extended period (e.g., days, weeks, months, etc.). When assembled, the moisture barrier 108 can create a seal that prevents moisture from penetrating to the biosensor 102. Additionally, another seal can be present between the bottom housing opening 124 and the top housing opening 127 to prevent moisture from penetrating to the biosensor. The seal can be composed of an adhesive, an elastomeric gasket, or others. When assembled, the top enclosure 104 encloses the biosensor 102 and mates with the bottom enclosure 106 (e.g., by snap fitting, welding joint, or others). The top enclosure 104 can also be adhered or otherwise joined to the bottom enclosure 106.

[0032] Figures 3 and 4 illustrate, respectively, a top perspective view of the sensor cable support device 110 and a bottom perspective view of the sensor cable support device 110 according to various embodiments. The sensor cable support device 110, which is a kind of molded interconnect device, can include a body 302 and a set of legs 304. Generally, the body 302 includes a top side or top surface 302a and a bottom side or bottom surface 302b. When installed, the top side 302a faces the top enclosure 104 and the bottom side 302b faces the PCB 118.

[0033] The top side 302a can include a substantially planar area (e.g., greater than 1 mm^2). This top-side area can be suitably sized and preferably made flat to enable the suction head of a robotic placement device (e.g., a pick-and-place device) to grip the sensor cable support device 110.

[0034] In some embodiments, the sensor cable support device 110 can have a height of about 2 mm, a width of about 4 mm, and a length of about 4 mm. In other embodiments, the height, width, and / or length of the sensor cable support device 110 can be greater than or less than 2 mm, 4 mm, and / or 4 mm, respectively. The height of about 2 mm can be selected to be lower than the height of the power supply 116. The height of about 2 mm can also provide a suitable separation between the proximal end portion 112a of the sensor cable 112 and other electronic components attached to or otherwise disposed on or in the sensing circuit 114 and the PCB 118.

[0035] A set of legs 304 extends from one side of the body 302 and extends below the body 302 and, in some embodiments, includes a corresponding set of feet 308. For example, the body 302 can be oriented in a first plane and the set of feet 308 can be oriented in a second different plane. The set of legs 304 can extend between the first plane and the second plane so as to connect the body 302 to the set of feet 308. The body 302 can be oriented within the first plane when a substantial portion of the body 302 is disposed in the first plane. The set of feet 308 (e.g., the distal ends of the set of legs 304) can be oriented within the second plane when a substantial portion of the set of feet 308 is disposed in the second plane. In some embodiments, the set of feet 308 can include conductive pads 310. The sensor cable support device 110 can be electrically and structurally attached to the PCB 118 or other structure using the conductive pads 310. In some embodiments, the feet 308 are connected to the PCB 118 using surface mount technology.

[0036] Within the body 302, a pair of conductive openings 312 can be formed. The conductive openings 312 can extend through the body 302 from the top side 302a to the bottom side 302b. In some embodiments, the conductive openings 312 are defined as cavities that do not extend through the body 302. In any case, the conductive openings 312 can be sized and configured to receive the pack 122. Regarding sizing, the conductive openings 312 can have a rectangular cross-section, but it is understood that any other cross-sectional shape (e.g., square, circular, elliptical, etc.) can be used. Regarding configuration, the conductive openings 312 can include geometric features corresponding to the geometric features of the pack 122 such that when the pack 122 is installed, the pack holds the sensor cable 112 that is in contact with the body 302.

[0037] The conductive surfaces 314a, 314b, which are shown hatched in the drawing, are disposed within the conductive openings 312. The conductive surface 314a can include a conductive material applied or deposited on the inner and outer surfaces of the conductive opening 312a and can be electrically coupled to the electrical trace 316a. The electrical trace 316a extends along the leg 304a from the conductive surface 314a and connects to the conductive pad 310a. Similarly, the conductive surface 314b can include a conductive material applied or deposited on the inner and outer surfaces of the conductive opening 312b and can be electrically coupled to the electrical trace 316b. The electrical trace 316b extends along the leg 304b from the conductive surface 314b and connects to the conductive pad 310b. Thus, the conductive surface 314a and the electrical trace 316a are electrically insulated from the conductive surface 314b and the electrical trace 316b. The electrical traces 316 can extend along the outer surface of the sensor cable support device 110 and / or can be disposed within the sensor cable support device 110.

[0038] To further electrically insulate the conductive surface 314b from the conductive surface 314a, an electrical protection structure 318 can be formed within the body 302. The purpose of the electrical protection structure 318 is to minimize the leakage current between the conductive openings 312a, 312b. The electrical protection structure 318 can be any suitable cavity, channel, hole, opening, or structure disposed between two electrically insulated contacts. In some embodiments, the electrical protection structure 318 functions like a guard trace to minimize crosstalk between two traces.

[0039] In some embodiments, the electrical protection structure 318 includes a channel or hole in the top side 302a, an opening extending from the top side 302a to the bottom side 302b, and / or a guard trace 320. The guard trace 320 can extend from the top side 302a to the bottom side 302b along the rear side (shown in FIGS. 5 and 6) and along one or more legs 304 (e.g., 304c, 304d) as illustrated in FIGS. 3 - 6. Like the electrical trace 316, the guard trace 320 can be terminated by one or more conductive pads 310 (e.g., 310c, 310d) that can electrically couple the guard trace 320 to the PCB 118.

[0040] The groove 322 can be formed on the top side 302a of the main body 302 of the sensor cable support device 110. The groove 322 can span across the two conductive openings 312. In some embodiments, the groove 322 is defined to include groove portions 322a-1, 322a-2, 322b-1, and 322b-2. The groove portion 322a corresponds to the conductive opening 312a and extends through at least a portion of the conductive surface 314a adjacent to the conductive opening 312a and a portion of the top side 302a. Similarly, the groove portion 322b corresponds to the conductive opening 312b and extends through at least a portion of the conductive surface 314b adjacent to the conductive opening 312b and a portion of the top side 302a. The groove 322 is sized to correspond to the sensor cable 112. Specifically, the groove portion 322a is sized to correspond to the first portion of the sensor cable 112 (e.g., the first electrode having the first cross-sectional area), and the groove portion 322b is sized to correspond to the second portion of the sensor cable 112 (e.g., the second electrode having the second cross-sectional area). In some embodiments, the groove 322 has a consistent shape and size. The groove portions 322a and 322b can be aligned in a coaxial manner such that the elongated straight sensor cable 112 can contact all of the groove portions 322a and 322b.

[0041] The use of the groove 322 can enable one or more independent electrical contacts between the sensor cable 112 and the conductive surface 314 (e.g., in the groove portions 322a-1, 322a-2, 322b-1, and 322b-2). Additionally, when the pack 122 is also conductive, the number of contacts further increases. For example, the pack 122 can physically contact one or more inner surfaces of the conductive opening 312 where the conductive surface 314 is disposed, forming more surfaces for electrical contacts.

[0042] The sensor cable support device 110 can also include an orientation structure 324. The orientation structure 324 can be used to orient and / or align the sensor cable support device 110 during assembly and / or to align the top enclosure 104 with the bottom enclosure 106.

[0043] The sensor cable support device 110 can be formed in any suitable manner, including, for example, injection molding or other suitable techniques. The sensor cable support device 110 can be formed as a single piece including at least a body 302, legs 304, and / or feet 308. The sensor cable support device 110 can be formed from any suitable material, including, for example, liquid crystal polymers (such as RTP 3499-3 X 113393A sold by RTP Co., VECTRA® E840i LDS sold by Ticona, etc.), high-temperature nylons, polyether ether ketone ("PEEK"), and other similar materials. In some embodiments, the material selected for the sensor cable support device 110 can be non-conductive, have low moisture absorption characteristics, have a low water vapor transmission rate, and can be easily molded into very thin walls. In some embodiments, the material selected for the sensor cable support device 110 can be capable of LDS treatment. The rigidity of the sensor cable support device 110 can depend on one or both of the thickness of the sensor cable support device 110 and the material forming the sensor cable support device 110. For example, the thickness of the sensor cable support device 110 can be inversely proportional to the density of the material (e.g., a high-density material can allow for a thinner sensor cable support device 110, and a low-density material may require a thicker sensor cable support device 110).

[0044] The electrical traces 316, 320 and the conductive surface 314 (and any other conductive path or surface) can be formed within the sensor cable support device 110 using any suitable technique. Examples of such techniques include LDS processing for disposing conductive materials such as copper, nickel, gold, etc. in circuit patterns, and corresponding techniques. Such techniques can include electroless copper plating. For example, such techniques can include those using Enplate® LDS AG-600 sold by Enthone®. The electrical traces 316, 320 and the conductive surface 314 can have a thickness of about 1 micron. In some embodiments, the electrical traces 316, 320 and the conductive surface 314 have a thickness of less than 1 micron (e.g., 0.25 micron to 0.5 micron). In some embodiments, the electrical traces 316, 320 and the conductive surface 314 can be formed using other surface coating techniques.

[0045] Figures 5 and 6 illustrate, respectively, a top partial perspective view of a sensor holder system 500 and a bottom perspective view of the sensor holder system 500 according to various embodiments. In this embodiment, the sensor holder system 500 is defined to include a sensor cable support device 110, a sensor cable 112, and a pack 122.

[0046] The sensor cable 112 can include one or more electrodes, chemical substances, or other means for generating biological information. For example, the sensor cable 112 can be a coaxial sensor and can include two electrodes 502a, 502b that are inserted into a person's skin to expose the electrodes 502a, 502b to interstitial fluid within the person's subcutaneous tissue. In some embodiments, the sensor cable 112 can include two or more separate wires that are not contained within the same sheath. The electrode 502b includes at least a portion of the sensor cable 112 made of or having a platinum coating, and the electrode 502a includes a silver / silver chloride (“Ag / AgCl”) material that covers a portion of the electrode 502b. By using the electrodes 502b, 502a to generate an electrical signal corresponding to the amount of glucose present in the interstitial fluid, glucose information regarding a person can be generated. In some embodiments, a reactive substance such as glucose oxidase (“GOX”) can also be coated on the distal end of the electrode 502b to create reaction products with glucose present in the interstitial fluid. When a voltage is applied to the electrodes 502b, 502a, a current is generated based on the amount of these reaction products generated by the glucose / GOX reaction. The current is routed through the sensor cable 112 to the sensing circuit 114. The sensing circuit 114 can use the intensity of the current to determine glucose information such as a person's glucose concentration. Although this example describes the measurement of glucose concentration, the biosensor 102 can be configured to measure other biological parameters without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Similarly, the chemical materials applied to the sensor cable 112 to form the electrodes 502b, 502a, and the reactive substances coated on the electrodes 502b, 502a may be suitable for a glucose sensor, but other materials can be used according to other embodiments based on the use of the biosensor 102.

[0047] The length of the sensor cable 112 can enable the sensor cable 112 to extend from under the human skin to the sensor cable support device 110 while allowing for human movement. For example, the sensor cable 112 can have a length of about 10 millimeters to 30 millimeters. The thickness or gauge of the sensor cable 112 can be selected to enable the sensor cable 112 to remain injected into the skin with minimal discomfort during this period. In some embodiments, the sensor cable 112 includes an outer diameter of about 100 to 200 microns for a portion of the cable coated with the electrode 502a and an outer diameter of about 100 microns for the electrode 502b. In additional embodiments, the sensor cable 112 can generally have a maximum outer diameter of about 100 microns to 300 microns. However, in some embodiments, the sensor cable 112 can have an outer diameter of about 50 microns.

[0048] Referring again to FIG. 3, in some embodiments, a first dimensional measurement (e.g., width, depth, cross-sectional area, etc.) taken transversely across the groove 322 taken at the groove portion 322a can be different from a second dimensional measurement taken transversely across the groove 322 taken at the groove portion 322b. These differences can be included in the groove 322 to conform to the electrodes 502a, 502b. As described herein, the electrodes 502a, 502b can be of different sizes (e.g., having different diameters). The different transverse measurements can be selected based on the respective widths of the proximal end portion 112a of the sensor cable at different positions. For example, a portion of one of the proximal ends of the sensor cable 112 can be an exposed platinum electrode 502b, which can have a thinner gauge than another portion including a platinum wire coated with a silver / silver-chloride electrode 502a.

[0049] FIG. 5 illustrates the sensor holder system 500 in a disassembled state, for example, the pack 122 and the sensor cable 112 when removed from the conductive opening 312. FIG. 6 illustrates the sensor holder system 500 in an assembled state, for example, the sensor cable 112 is illustrated as being held within the groove 322 and the pack 122 is illustrated as being installed within the conductive opening 312.

[0050] When installed, the pack 122 holds the sensor cable 112 and the sensor cable support device 110 in physical contact with each other, and also electrically couples the electrode 502 of the sensor cable 112 and the conductive surface 314 of the conductive opening 312. As described herein, the pack 122 can be formed from a conductive elastic material (e.g., silicon elastomer with added carbon or other similar materials). The pack 122 can be formed, molded, extruded, punched, or otherwise formed using any suitable technique.

[0051] Each pack 122 can include a pair of legs 504-1, 504-2 separated by a slit 508. The slit 508 can be sized large enough to receive the adjacent end portion 112a of the sensor cable 112. In some embodiments, the slit 508 is less than 1 mm in width. The slit 508 can also be made larger or smaller than 1 mm. The slit 508 can also include a portion that conforms in shape to the outer diameter of the sensor cable 112. For example, the slit 508 can include a cylindrical notch at the top of the slit 508 corresponding to the sensor cable 112. In some embodiments, the slit 508 can be sized to fit different diameters of the sensor cable 112.

[0052] The pack 122 can be sized and configured to be installed within the conductive opening 312. In some embodiments, the pack 122 is formed from a deformable conductive material that can be compressed or otherwise press-fitted into the conductive opening 312. When entering the conductive opening, the deformable material of the pack 122 (e.g., a pair of legs 504) expands and uses friction to hold the pack 122 in place. In some embodiments, whether or not a deformable material is used, the legs 504 can include retaining structures 506-1, 506-2. As illustrated in FIG. 6, when the pack 122 is installed in the conductive opening 312 such that the retaining structure 506 mates with the bottom side 302b, the retaining structure 506 can act springily outward. In this way, the pack 122 can be "snapped" into the conductive opening 312.

[0053] The pack 122 can be installed manually and / or in an automated manner. The pack 122 can be installed from the top side 302a or from the bottom side 302b. When installed from the bottom side 302b, the sensor cable 112 and the groove 322 can be disposed on the bottom side 302b. In this arrangement, the pack 122 can be installed in the conductive opening 312 before the sensor cable support device 110 is connected to the PCB 118. When the pack 122 is installed from the top side 302a, the sensor cable 112 can be connected to the sensor cable support device 110 either before or after the sensor cable support device 102 is connected to the PCB 118.

[0054] In some embodiments, the top side of the pack 122 can include a substantially planar region (e.g., greater than 1 mm^2). This top-side region can be sized and flattened preferably such that the suction head of a robotic placement device (e.g., a pick-and-place device) can grip the pack 122, place the pack into the conductive opening 312, thereby physically supporting and electrically coupling the sensor cable 112 to the electrical trace 306.

[0055] FIG. 7 illustrates a top view of a sensor cable support device 710 according to at least one embodiment. The sensor cable support device 710 includes a pair of conductive openings 712a, 712b. Within the conductive openings 712a, 712b are a pair of packs 722a, 722b. In the embodiment illustrated by FIG. 7, the packs 722 are installed from the bottom surface of the sensor cable support device 710. Accordingly, the slits 724a, 724b are visible in the view presented in FIG. 7. The sensor cable support device 710 also includes alignment grooves 726a, 726b. The alignment grooves 726 can be used to align the packs 722 into the conductive openings 712 during installation. In some embodiments, the alignment grooves 726 assist in holding the packs 722 after installation. The sensor cable support device 710 also includes electrical traces 716a, 716b respectively connected to the conductive openings 712a, 712b. The sensor cable support device 710 also includes an electrical protection structure 718 disposed between the conductive openings 712 and the guard traces 720a, 720b. In some embodiments, the electrical protection structure 718 can be a recessed channel and / or a through hole. In either case, the electrical protection structure 718 can function to minimize leakage between the conductive openings 712. The guard traces 720a, 720b can perform a function similar to that of the electrical protection structure 718.

[0056] Figures 8 and 9 illustrate, respectively, a top view and a top perspective view of a sensor cable support device 810 according to various embodiments. The sensor cable support device 810 includes a pair of conductive openings 812a, 812b. The conductive openings 812, including a portion thereof coated with a conductive material, are electrically coupled to electrical traces 816a, 816b. As illustrated, in some embodiments, only a portion of the conductive opening 812 includes a conductive material. The sensor cable support device 810 also includes alignment grooves 826a, 826b. The alignment grooves 826 can be used to align the pack into the conductive openings 812 during installation. In some embodiments, the alignment grooves 826 assist in holding the pack after installation. The sensor cable support device 810 also includes an electrical protection structure 818 and a guard trace 820. In this embodiment, the guard trace 820 can include a more complex pattern including at least two individual traces extending between the conductive openings 812. The guard trace 820 also extends into the electrical protection structure 818 and down all four legs of the sensor cable support device 810 and / or down two legs.

[0057] Figure 10 illustrates a partial exploded view of a monitoring device 1000 including an integrated sensor cable support device 1010 that is part of a biosensor 1002 according to at least one embodiment. The monitoring device 1000 is an example of the monitoring device 100 described herein. Thus, the monitoring device 1000 includes a bottom enclosure 106, a moisture barrier 108, a PCB 118, an antenna 120, a sensing circuit 114, and a power source 116. The sensor cable support device of the monitoring device 1000 is integrated with the PCB 118. Specifically, the sensor cable support device 1010 is printed in the same manner as the PCB 118 (e.g., using the same manufacturing techniques). Thus, the integrated sensor cable support device 1010 is integrated in the sense that it is integrated with the PCB 118.

[0058] The integrated sensor cable support device 1010 includes a pair of conductive openings 1012a, 1012b sized and configured to receive packs 122a, 122b. In some embodiments, the pair of conductive openings 1012a, 1012b may not extend through the PCB 118. In other words, since the integrated sensor cable support device 1010 is effectively mounted directly to the PCB 118, the conductive openings 1012 can be cavities in which the packs 122 can be placed. Similar to other embodiments described herein, the pack 122 can function to electrically and mechanically connect the sensor cable 112 to the sensor cable support device 1010.

[0059] Additional embodiments are described below to facilitate understanding of the present disclosure.

[0060] Example 1. In this example, a rigid body having a pair of openings, each opening sized and configured to receive a conductive pack, the rigid body supporting a proximal end of a sensor cable and configured to electrically couple the sensor cable to a sensing circuit of a monitoring device, a set of rigid legs connected to the rigid body and extending away from a bottom side of the rigid body, a first electrical trace electrically coupling a first opening of the pair of openings to a distal end of a first leg of the set of legs, a second electrical trace electrically coupling a second opening of the pair of openings to a distal end of a second leg of the set of legs, and providing a device.

[0061] Example 2. In this example, a groove is formed on a bottom side of the rigid body or on a top side of the rigid body opposite the bottom side, the groove sized and configured to receive a sensor cable, providing a device according to any of the preceding or subsequent embodiments.

[0062] Example 3. In this example, the groove is A first region disposed adjacent to the first opening, the first region having a first cross-sectional area and sized to accommodate a first portion of a sensor cable that includes a first wire, the first region; A second region disposed adjacent to the second opening, the second region having a second cross-sectional area and sized to accommodate a second portion of a sensor cable that includes a second wire, the second region, defining the first cross-sectional area being different from the second cross-sectional area, provide an apparatus according to any of the preceding or subsequent embodiments.

[0063] Example 4. In this example, provide an apparatus according to any of the preceding or subsequent embodiments, further comprising an electrical protection structure disposed between a pair of openings.

[0064] Example 5. In this example, provide an apparatus according to any of the preceding or subsequent embodiments, wherein the electrical protection structure comprises a third electrical trace extending to a distal end of a third leg of a set of legs.

[0065] Example 6. In this example, provide an apparatus according to any of the preceding or subsequent embodiments, wherein the electrical protection structure comprises a protection opening formed within and extending through a rigid body.

[0066] Example 7. In this example, provide an apparatus according to any of the preceding or subsequent embodiments, wherein a set of rigid legs is integrated with the rigid body.

[0067] Example 8. In this example, provide an apparatus according to any of the preceding or subsequent embodiments, wherein a pair of openings extends through the rigid body.

[0068] Example 9. In this example, provide an apparatus according to any of the preceding or subsequent embodiments, wherein the rigid body includes an electroplating within a pair of openings.

[0069] Example 10. In this example, provide an apparatus according to any of the preceding or subsequent embodiments, wherein the first opening is electrically insulated from the second opening.

[0070] Example 11. In this example, a rigid body and a set of legs are characterized by being formed from a first material using injection molding technology, the first and second electrical traces are characterized by being formed using laser direct structuring technology, and the first and second electrical traces provide an apparatus as described in any of the preceding or subsequent examples, which includes a second material.

[0071] Example 12. In this example, an apparatus comprising a printed circuit board disposed within a housing having an outer surface for positioning a wearable monitoring device on a person's skin, a sensing circuit including one or more electronic components connected to the printed circuit board, a sensor holder system, the sensor holder system being a body having a set of legs extending from one side of the body, the sensor holder system being physically coupled to the printed circuit board via the set of legs, the body having a pair of conductive openings formed therein, the pair of conductive openings being electrically coupled to the printed circuit board, the body; a sensor cable electrically coupled to the sensing circuit and including a first portion in electrical contact with a first conductive opening of the pair of conductive openings to form a first electrical connection and a second portion in electrical contact with a second conductive opening of the pair of conductive openings to form a second electrical connection; a pair of packs installed in the pair of conductive openings such that a first pack of the pair of packs mechanically holds a first portion in electrical contact with the first conductive opening and a second pack of the pair of packs mechanically holds a second portion in electrical contact with the second conductive opening.

[0072] Example 13. In this example, the pair of packs are formed from a conductive material, providing an apparatus as described in any of the preceding or subsequent examples.

[0073] Example 14. In this example, a pair of packs provides an apparatus as described in any of the preceding or subsequent examples that is involved in a first electrical connection and a second electrical connection when installed in a pair of conductive openings.

[0074] Example 15. In this example, each pack of a pair of packs defines a slit, and when the first pack is installed in the first conductive opening, the first portion of the sensor cable is held within the first slit of the first pack, and when the second pack is installed in the second conductive opening, the second portion of the sensor cable is held within the second slit of the second pack, providing an apparatus as described in any of the preceding or subsequent examples.

[0075] Example 16. In this example, a sensor cable provides an apparatus as described in any of the preceding or subsequent examples that includes a distal end extending beyond the external housing surface.

[0076] Example 17. In this example, a first portion of a sensor cable extends across a first conductive opening and is in physical contact with the first conductive opening at two or more locations, providing an apparatus as described in any of the preceding or subsequent examples.

[0077] Example 18. In this example, a sensor cable provides an apparatus as described in any of the preceding or subsequent examples that includes a first portion corresponding to a second portion and a first electrode corresponding to a second electrode.

[0078] Example 19. In this example, a sensor holder system further includes an electrical protection structure disposed between a pair of openings, the electrical protection structure including at least one of an electrical trace or an opening formed in the body, providing an apparatus as described in any of the preceding or subsequent examples.

[0079] Example 20. In this example, there is provided an apparatus as described in any of the preceding or subsequent examples, in which a pair of conductive openings are electrically coupled to a printed circuit board via a pair of electrical traces extending between the distal ends of a pair of legs of a set of legs and the pair of conductive openings.

[0080] Example 21. In this example, there is provided an apparatus as described in any of the preceding or subsequent examples, in which a sensing circuit is configured to detect biometric information about a person via a pair of electrodes of a sensor cable inserted into the person's skin.

[0081] Example 22. In this example, there is provided an apparatus as described in any of the preceding or subsequent examples, in which a housing includes a top enclosure and a bottom enclosure, and an outer surface is defined by the bottom enclosure.

[0082] Example 23. In this example, there is provided an apparatus as described in any of the preceding or subsequent examples, in which the top enclosure physically contacts a side facing outward of a pair of packs, and the bottom enclosure physically contacts a bottom side of a circuit board.

[0083] Example 24. In this example, there is provided a system comprising a sensor cable including a first portion insertable into a person's skin, the first portion including means for generating glucose information, a sensor holder system, the sensor holder system including alignment means for physically aligning a second portion of the sensor cable, holding means for physically holding the second portion of the sensor cable, support means for physically supporting the alignment means and the holding means, and coupling means for electrically coupling the second portion of the sensor cable to a circuit disposed on a printed circuit board for determining a person's analyte level (e.g., glucose or other analyte).

[0084] Example 25. In this example, the alignment means provides the system according to any of the preceding or subsequent examples, which defines at least one of the grooves or a pair of opposing tabs.

[0085] Example 26. In this example, the holding means provides the system according to any of the preceding or subsequent examples, which includes a pair of conductive packs configured to physically couple with the support means.

[0086] Example 27. In this example, the support means provides the system according to any of the preceding or subsequent examples, which includes a rigid body connected to a set of rigid legs extending between the rigid body and the printed circuit board.

[0087] Example 28. In this example, the coupling means provides the system according to any of the preceding or subsequent examples, which includes one or more electrical traces disposed on the support means.

[0088] Example 29. In this example, the means for generating glucose information provides the system according to any of the preceding or subsequent examples, which includes one or more electrodes configured to generate an electrical signal corresponding to the amount of glucose present in the interstitial fluid under a person's skin.

[0089] Example 30. In this example, a sensor cable support device, a body having a pair of conductive openings, a set of legs extending away from the bottom side of the body, a pair of electrical traces extending between the pair of conductive openings and the distal ends of the pair of legs of the set of legs, and a sensor cable support device including the same, a sensor cable, a first portion in electrical contact with the first conductive opening of the pair of conductive openings to form a first electrical connection, a second portion in electrical contact with the second conductive opening of the pair of conductive openings to form a second electrical connection, and a sensor cable including the same, A system is provided that includes a pair of packs, where a first pack of the pair of packs mechanically holds a first portion that is in electrical contact with a first conductive opening, and the pair of packs is installed in a pair of openings to mechanically hold a second portion of a second pack of the pair of packs that is in electrical contact with a second opening.

[0090] Example 31. In this example, a set of legs provides a system as described in any of the preceding or following examples that is adapted to be attached to a printed circuit board.

[0091] Example 32. In this example, a first portion of a sensor cable is defined by a first cross-sectional area, and a second portion of the sensor cable is defined by a second cross-sectional area that is larger than the first cross-sectional area, providing a system as described in any of the preceding or following examples.

[0092] Example 33. In this example, a pair of grooves is formed on the top side of the body, where a first groove of the pair of grooves is sized and configured to receive a first portion of the sensor cable, and a second groove of the pair of grooves is sized and configured to receive a second portion of the sensor cable, providing a system as described in any of the preceding or following examples.

[0093] Example 34. In this example, a sensor holder device is integrated with a printed circuit board such that the sensor holder device and the printed circuit board are formed using a printed circuit board manufacturing method, providing a system as described in any of the preceding or following examples.

[0094] The foregoing description of some examples is presented for purposes of illustration and description only. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosure to the exact form disclosed. Numerous modifications and adaptations will be apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the essence and scope of this disclosure.

[0095] A reference to one example or implementation in this specification means that the particular features, structures, acts, or other characteristics described in connection with the example may be included in at least one implementation of the present disclosure. The present disclosure is not limited to the particular examples or implementations so described. The appearances of the phrases "in one example", "in an example", "in one implementation", "in an implementation", or variations thereof, in various places in this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same example or implementation. Any particular features, structures, acts, or other characteristics described in this specification in connection with one example or implementation may be combined with any other features, structures, acts, or other characteristics described in connection with any other example or implementation.

[0096] The terms "a", "an", and "the", and the use of similar designations (especially in the context of the following claims) are to be construed to cover both the singular and the plural unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context. The terms "comprising", "having", "including", and "containing" are to be construed as open-ended terms (i.e., meaning "including, but not limited to") unless otherwise noted. The term "connected" is to be construed as being contained, attached, or joined together, either partially or wholly, even if something intervenes. The recitation of a range of values herein is merely intended to serve as a convenient method of referring individually to each value falling within the range, and each value is incorporated herein as if it were individually recited herein. All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or there is an obvious contradiction in the context. Any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g., "such as") provided herein are merely intended to make the disclosure clearer and do not limit the scope of the disclosure unless otherwise claimed. No language in this specification should be construed as indicating that any non-claimed element is essential to the practice of the disclosure.

[0097] The use of the word "or" in this specification is intended to cover both inclusive and exclusive OR conditions. In other words, A or B or C includes any and all of the following alternative combinations, depending on the particular use, namely, A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B only, A and C only, B and C only, and A and B and C.

Description of the Reference Signs

[0098] 100 Monitoring device 102 Biosensor 104 Top enclosure 106 Bottom enclosure 108 Moisture barrier seal area 110 Sensor cable support device 112 Sensor cable 114 Sensing circuit 116 Power supply 118 PCB 120 Antenna 122 Pack 124 Bottom opening 127 Top opening 302 Body 304 Leg 312 Conductive opening 314 Conductive surface 316 Electrical trace 322 Groove

Claims

1. A support device for supporting a sensor, comprising: A rigid body defining a pair of openings, each opening sized and configured to receive a conductive elastomer, the rigid body supporting a proximal end of the sensor and configured to electrically couple the sensor to a sensing circuit of a monitoring device; A set of legs connected to the rigid body; A first electrical trace electrically coupling the first opening of the pair of openings to a distal end of the first leg of the set of legs; A second electrical trace electrically coupling the second opening of the pair of openings to a distal end of the second leg of the set of legs; The support device comprising the above components.

2. The support device according to claim 1, wherein the set of legs is integrated with the rigid body.

3. The support device according to claim 1, wherein the pair of openings extend through the rigid body.

4. The support device according to claim 1, wherein the rigid body comprises an electroplating within the pair of openings.

5. The support device according to claim 1, wherein the first opening is electrically insulated from the second opening.

6. The rigid body and the set of legs are formed from a first material using an injection molding technique, and the first and second electrical traces are formed using a laser direct structuring technique and comprise a second material, the support device according to claim 1.

7. The support device according to claim 1, wherein the rigid body is further configured to be positioned at a distal end of the sensor insertable into human skin.

8. A groove is formed on a bottom side of the rigid body or on a top side of the rigid body opposite the bottom side, the groove sized and configured to accommodate the sensor, the support device according to claim 1.

9. The groove defines: A first region disposed adjacent to the first opening, the first region having a first cross-sectional area and sized to accommodate a first portion of the sensor including a first wire; A second region disposed adjacent to the second opening, the second region having a second cross-sectional area and sized to accommodate a second portion of the sensor including a second wire, the first cross-sectional area being different from the second cross-sectional area; The support device according to claim 8.

10. ​ The support device according to claim 1, further comprising an electrical protection structure disposed between the pair of openings.

11. The support device according to claim 10, wherein the electrical protection structure comprises a third electrical trace extending to a distal end of a third leg of the set of legs.

12. The support device according to claim 10, wherein the electrical protection structure comprises a protection opening formed within and extending through the rigid body.

13. A wearable monitoring device, wherein the wearable monitoring device a printed circuit board disposed within a housing having an outer surface for disposing the wearable monitoring device on a person's skin; a sensing circuit comprising one or more electronic components connected to the printed circuit board; a sensor holder system, wherein the sensor holder system a body having a set of legs extending from one side portion of the body, the sensor holder system being physically coupled to the printed circuit board via the set of legs, the body having a pair of conductive openings formed therein, the pair of conductive openings being electrically coupled to the printed circuit board; a body; a sensor electrically connected to the sensing circuit, the sensor including a first portion in electrical contact with a first conductive opening of the pair of conductive openings to form a first electrical connection and a second portion in electrical contact with a second conductive opening of the pair of conductive openings to form a second electrical connection; a pair of conductive elastomers disposed within the pair of conductive openings, the first conductive elastomer of the pair of conductive elastomers mechanically holding the first portion in electrical contact with the first conductive opening, and the second conductive elastomer of the pair of conductive elastomers mechanically holding the second portion in electrical contact with the second conductive opening; a pair of conductive elastomers; A wearable monitoring device comprising.

14. Each conductive elastomer of the pair of conductive elastomers defines a slit, when the first conductive elastomer is disposed in the first conductive opening, the first portion of the sensor is held within a first slit of the first conductive elastomer, The wearable monitoring device according to claim 13, wherein when the second conductive elastomer is installed in the second conductive opening, the second portion of the sensor is held within a second slit of the second conductive elastomer.

15. The wearable monitoring device according to claim 13, wherein the sensor comprises a distal end extending to a position beyond the outer surface of the housing.

16. The wearable monitoring device according to claim 13, wherein the first portion of the sensor extends across the first conductive opening and is in physical contact with the first conductive opening at two or more positions.

17. The wearable monitoring device according to claim 13, wherein the sensor comprises a first electrode corresponding to the first portion and a second electrode corresponding to the second portion.

18. The wearable monitoring device according to claim 13, wherein the sensor holder system further comprises an electrical protection structure disposed between the pair of conductive openings, the electrical protection structure comprising at least one of an electrical trace or an opening formed in the body.

19. The wearable monitoring device according to claim 13, wherein the pair of conductive openings are electrically coupled to the printed circuit board via a pair of electrical traces extending between a pair of distal ends of the pair of legs of the set of legs and the pair of conductive openings.

20. The wearable monitoring device according to claim 13, wherein the sensing circuit is configured to detect biological information about a person via a pair of electrodes of the sensor inserted into the person's skin.

21. The wearable monitoring device according to claim 13, wherein the pair of conductive elastomers are formed of a conductive material.

22. The wearable monitoring device according to claim 21, wherein when the pair of conductive elastomers are installed within the pair of conductive openings, they contribute to the first electrical connection and the second electrical connection.

23. The wearable monitoring device according to claim 13, wherein the housing comprises a top enclosure and a bottom enclosure, and the outer surface is defined by the bottom enclosure.

24. The wearable monitoring device according to claim 23, wherein the top enclosure physically contacts a side facing outward of the pair of packs, and the bottom enclosure physically contacts a bottom side of the printed circuit board.

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