Fluid Collection Device

Abstract

The present disclosure discloses a fluid collection device (100) that can be configured for improved collection, monitoring, and measurement of bodily fluids for real-time analysis of bodily fluids. In some embodiments, monitoring can be achieved by providing a collection container (10) with multiple compartments (20) that are filled with bodily fluid at predetermined time intervals to monitor and detect changing conditions in vital organs over longer durations. This aids in early detection of infection or disease, thereby enabling accurate testing using a single collection container (10).

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to the field of fluid collection systems. More particularly, the present invention relates to a fluid collection device for continuously monitoring and analyzing the properties of a fluid collected from a user or transferred from another device in real time. [Background technology]

[0002] Bodily fluids are typically collected and measured in a timely manner to examine the changing conditions of vital organs, and such examinations aid in the early detection of infection, disease, and the like. Traditionally, these bodily fluids are collected in pouches or disposable bags connected to a user, such as a human or animal body, via a catheter. The collected bodily fluids in such pouches or disposable bags are periodically measured and recorded manually by a doctor or nurse. However, these conventional pouches or disposable bags are designed to collect only a limited volume of bodily fluid and must be frequently replaced when additional volumes of bodily fluid need to be collected. Especially for bodies with severe diseases, it is important to regularly monitor vital organs to diagnose and provide appropriate medical care. Therefore, frequent draining of the measurement chamber or disposable bag can cause delays in monitoring users with such diseases, which can lead to complications and loss of important data. The collected fluids are mixed with the remaining fluids, thereby diluting the concentration and potentially mixing important components of the collected fluids. This is because this method does not allow for evenly spaced sampling.

[0003] Traditional methods of collecting fluid samples and maintaining logs by periodically measuring volume are prone to error and have a high measurement error rate. Manual logs also tend to record fluid properties, such as fluid color or turbidity, which can be difficult to detect due to dilution of the collected fluid; for example, certain changes that occur over short periods of time may go undetected due to dilution of the fluid.

[0004] Recently, automated fluid collection devices have been developed that include pouches with electrical systems. The collected bodily fluids in such pouches are electronically monitored and measured to enable more accurate measurement and determination of the collected fluids. However, such electronic monitoring requires additional systems to operate sensors, display units, or communication modules, thereby increasing manufacturing and operational costs. Furthermore, operation is limited to skilled personnel due to the complexity of the configuration and operation system. Furthermore, in such devices, the pouch has a reservoir integrally formed within the pouch and fluidically connected to the remaining volume of the pouch, whereby the bodily fluid is initially collected in the reservoir and periodically transferred to the remaining volume of the pouch. However, additional time is consumed because the bodily fluid needs to be transferred from the reservoir into the remaining volume of the container to initiate a measurement cycle for analysis. Furthermore, these automated fluid collection devices rely on external devices to perform any chemical analysis of the bodily fluid collected in the pouch, which is time consuming and can alter the properties of the bodily fluid, thereby resulting in inaccurate analysis of the fluid so collected or causing contamination, for example, bacterial growth in the collected fluid due to contact in the air or during conventional sampling. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] Therefore, there is a need to produce fluid detection devices for improved analysis and early detection of disease or infection to alleviate one or more of the above-mentioned drawbacks. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] One or more disadvantages of the prior art are overcome by the claimed fluid collection devices and methods, and additional advantages are provided by the present disclosure. Additional features and advantages are realized through the techniques of the present disclosure. Other embodiments and aspects of the present disclosure are described in detail herein and are considered a part of the claimed disclosure.

[0007] In one non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure, a fluid collection device is disclosed. The fluid collection device includes a collection container, at least one inlet port, a plurality of compartments, and a valve assembly. The collection container defines a reservoir, the reservoir being defined with a plurality of conduits. The at least one inlet port is defined on an inlet portion of the collection container and is fluidly connected to receive fluid from a user. A plurality of compartments are defined within the reservoir, each of the plurality of compartments being configured to receive and collect a different amount of fluid. A valve assembly is connectable between the at least one inlet port and the plurality of compartments. The valve assembly includes a plurality of fixtures connected to each of the plurality of compartments via a plurality of conduits, and the valve assembly is configured to selectively allow fluid flow from the reservoir to the plurality of compartments at predetermined intervals.

[0008] In one embodiment, the at least one inlet port is fluidly connected to a user by a fluid tube.

[0009] In one embodiment, a valve assembly is defined having an enclosure connected at one end to at least one inlet port.

[0010] In one embodiment, the valve assembly includes a timer mechanism and a flow control mechanism within the enclosure configured to selectively allow fluid flow from the reservoir to each of the plurality of compartments at predetermined intervals.

[0011] In one embodiment, the timer mechanism is a discrete control mechanism.

[0012] In one embodiment, the timer mechanism is a continuous control mechanism.

[0013] In one embodiment, the flow control mechanism is defined by a cam having a flow path for fluid from the fluid tube to one of the compartments.

[0014] In one embodiment, the timer mechanism is configured to adjust the flow control mechanism so that each compartment of the plurality of compartments is filled with fluid until a predetermined interval has elapsed, at which point subsequent compartments are filled with fluid.

[0015] In one embodiment, the timer mechanism includes a biasing member having one end connected to the flow control mechanism and another end coupled to a knob for manually loading the biasing member and setting the predetermined interval.

[0016] In one embodiment, the fluid collection device comprises at least one control unit communicatively coupled to the fluid collection device.

[0017] In one embodiment, the at least one control unit is configured to receive one of a set of images from the image capture device and signals from a plurality of sensors disposed within the fluid collection device to measure a flow rate, volume, and specific gravity of the fluid.

[0018] In one embodiment, the at least one control unit is configured to compare the volume and specific gravity of the fluid to a set of predetermined values ​​and determine the flow rate of the fluid based on inputs provided by the plurality of sensors.

[0019] In one embodiment, the at least one control unit is configured to estimate a flow rate, a volume, a weight, and a specific gravity of the fluid based on a comparison to a set of predetermined values.

[0020] In one embodiment, the fluid collection device comprises a hook connectable at a top portion to the collection container and configured to selectively expand and contract relative to the fluid collection device based on fluid flow into the collection container.

[0021] In one embodiment, the hook is a spring activated mechanism.

[0022] In one embodiment, the plurality of sensors comprises a refractometer configured to sense a refractive index of the fluid and to transmit at least one signal corresponding to the refractive index of the fluid to the at least one control unit.

[0023] In one embodiment, the at least one control unit is configured to determine a specific gravity of the fluid based on at least one signal corresponding to a refractive index of the fluid transmitted by the refractometer.

[0024] In one embodiment, the fluid collection device comprises a plurality of analysis strips in fluid communication with the plurality of compartments and configured to receive fluid for analysis of the fluid.

[0025] In one embodiment, each compartment of the plurality of compartments is defined with at least one sampling port configured to allow for fluid sample collection.

[0026] In another non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure, a method for analyzing a fluid in a fluid collection device is disclosed. The method includes accepting a user's fluid into multiple compartments through at least one inlet port, the fluid collection device being defined with the multiple compartments and the at least one inlet port. At least one control unit is configured to determine a volume and specific gravity of the fluid upon receiving one of a set of images captured from the image capture device and a signal from a sensor disposed within the fluid collection device. The at least one control unit is configured to compare the volume and specific gravity of the fluid with a set of predetermined values. The at least one control unit is configured to determine a flow rate of the fluid based on inputs provided by the multiple sensors. Finally, the control unit is configured to estimate the flow rate of the fluid and compare it with the set of predetermined values ​​for analysis of the fluid.

[0027] It should be understood that the aspects and embodiments of the above-described disclosure can be used in any combination with each other, and some of the aspects and embodiments may be combined to form further embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0028] The foregoing summary is illustrative only and is not intended to be in any way limiting. In addition to the exemplary aspects, embodiments, and features described above, further aspects, embodiments, and features will become apparent by reference to the drawings and the following detailed description.

[0029] The novel features and characteristics of the present disclosure are set forth in the appended claims. However, the disclosure itself, as well as its preferred modes of use, further objects and advantages, will best be understood by reading and reading the following detailed description of exemplary embodiments in connection with the accompanying drawings. One or more embodiments will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals represent like elements. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0030] [Figure 1] 1 is a front cross-sectional view of a fluid collection device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a fluid controller and valve assembly of the device of FIG. 1. [Figure 4a] FIG. 1 is a front view of a sleeve according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 4b] FIG. 1 is a front view of a sleeve with a refractometer according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a sleeve attached to a device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 6a] FIG. 10 is a top view of a timer mechanism according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 6b] FIG. 10 is a front view of a timer mechanism according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 6c] FIG. 10 is a side view of a timer mechanism according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 6d] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a timer mechanism according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 7a] 1 is a perspective view of a fluid collection device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. [Figure 7b] FIG. 1 is a top view of a device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 7c] FIG. 7b is a left side view of the device of FIG. 7a according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 7d] FIG. 7b is a front view of the device of FIG. 7a according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] 1 is a flowchart illustrating a method for analyzing a fluid according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0031] The figures depict embodiments of the present disclosure for purposes of illustration only. Those skilled in the art will readily recognize from the following description that alternative embodiments of the structures and features shown herein may be used without departing from the principles of the disclosure set forth herein.

[0032] While the embodiments of the present disclosure are susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiments of the present disclosure have been shown by way of example in the drawings and are described below. It should be understood, however, that the specific embodiments are not intended to limit the disclosure to the particular forms disclosed, but on the contrary, the present disclosure covers all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0033] The terms "comprises" and "comprising," or any other variations thereof, as used in this disclosure are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, whereby a device, assembly, mechanism, system, or method that includes a list of components may include not only those components but also other components not expressly listed or specific to such system, assembly, or device. In other words, one or more elements in a system preceded by "comprises ... a" does not preclude or further limit the presence of other or additional elements in the system or method.

[0034] An embodiment of the present disclosure discloses a fluid collection device. The fluid collection device includes a collection container, at least one inlet port, a plurality of compartments, and a valve assembly. The collection container defines a reservoir, the reservoir being defined with a plurality of conduits. The at least one inlet port is defined on an inlet portion of the collection container and is fluidly connected to receive fluid from a user or any other external source / device. A plurality of compartments are defined within the reservoir, each of the plurality of compartments being configured to receive and collect a different amount of fluid. The valve assembly is connectable between the at least one inlet port and the plurality of compartments. The valve assembly includes a plurality of fixtures connected to each of the plurality of compartments via a plurality of conduits, and the valve assembly is configured to selectively allow fluid flow from the reservoir to each of the plurality of compartments at predetermined intervals. In such a configuration, the fluid collection device can be configured for improved collection, monitoring, and measurement of bodily fluids for real-time analysis of the bodily fluids. In some embodiments, monitoring may be achieved by providing a collection container having multiple collection compartments configured to be filled with bodily fluid at predetermined time intervals to monitor and detect changing conditions of vital organs over a longer duration. The fluid collection device allows for continuous monitoring and early detection of infection or disease, thereby facilitating accurate testing using a single collection container.

[0035] The present disclosure will be described in the following paragraphs with reference to Figures 1-7. In the figures, like elements having like functions are designated by like reference numerals. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the devices and methods disclosed in the present disclosure can be used for the analysis of biological fluids, including, but not limited to, blood, urine, saliva, semen, etc. The devices and methods of the present disclosure can also be implemented to analyze other fluids, including, but not limited to, water, coolant, sludge, etc., without departing from the principles of the present disclosure.

[0036] Referring now to Figures 1-3, a fluid collection device (100) (referred to herein as the device) is disclosed. The device (100) may include a collection container (10) formed from front and rear sheets of flexible material sealed together at their edges to define a fluid reservoir. The fluid reservoir may be defined with multiple conduits (25) for allowing fluid to flow within the fluid reservoir. In one embodiment, the multiple conduits (25) may be defined in a branched or sequential configuration. In the illustrated embodiment, the multiple conduits (25) are shown in a branched configuration for dividing the fluid into multiple volumes. The collection container (10) defining the fluid reservoir may include at least one inlet port (12) defined on an inlet portion (11) of the collection container (10) for receiving fluid from a user. The collection container (10) may be defined with at least one outlet port (14) for facilitating fluid evacuation. Furthermore, at least one inlet port (12) of the collection container (10) may be fluidly connected to one of a fluid source and a user, such as a human / animal body, via a fluid tube (16). In one embodiment, the fluid tube (16) may be a catheter. Furthermore, a valve may be provided on or along the fluid tube (16) to regulate fluid flow within the collection container (10). The valve is provided to prevent backflow of fluid from the collection container (10) to the fluid tube (16). In one embodiment, the collection container (10) may be fabricated from a polymeric material or any other flexible material with necessary strength characteristics. One end of the fluid tube (16) is connected to a catheterized user or an external device, and the second end is fluidly connected to the collection container (10) for delivering fluid to the collection container (10). In one embodiment, the fluid may be a bodily fluid, such as urine, blood, pus, serous fluid, excreta, or fluid collected during infection or disease. Other fluids may be samples from a machine or the environment.

[0037] Furthermore, the device (100) may include multiple compartments (20) defined by reservoirs. The multiple compartments (20) may be arranged in an array configuration. The configuration of the multiple conduits (25) may be based on the array configuration of the multiple compartments (20) to allow fluid flow from the inlet portion (11) of the collection container (10) to each of the multiple compartments (20). However, such a configuration is not considered limiting, and any other necessary configuration may be used to achieve this purpose. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the multiple compartments (20) are sealed by the collection container (10). Each of the multiple compartments (20) may be configured to receive and collect various amounts of fluid. Furthermore, each of the multiple compartments (20) may be an inflatable bellows or bladder that expands when it receives fluid, thereby extending longitudinally. The multiple compartments (20) may be fabricated from latex, rubber, PVC material, or any other medical-grade material that serves this purpose. Each of the plurality of compartments (20) can be structured to define a predetermined volume for collecting fluid having a required flow rate. The predetermined volume of each compartment can vary based on the sample volume requirements and the design requirements of the fluid collection device (100). The collection vessel (10) can be divided into one or more columns, with each column having several of the plurality of compartments (20).

[0038] Referring again to Figures 1-3, each of the multiple compartments (20) may be connected to the fluid tube (16) via a valve assembly (30). The valve assembly (30) may be connectable between at least one inlet port (12) and the multiple compartments (20). The valve assembly (30) may be defined by an enclosure (32) having one end connected to the at least one inlet port (12). The valve assembly (30) may include multiple fixtures individually connected to each of the multiple compartments (20) via multiple conduits (25). The valve assembly (30) may be configured to selectively allow fluid flow from a reservoir to the multiple compartments (20) at predetermined intervals. Each compartment is individually in fluid communication with the valve assembly (30). The valve assembly (30) may include a timer mechanism (70) and a flow control mechanism within the enclosure (32). The timer mechanism (70) and the flow control mechanism may be configured to selectively enable fluid flow from the reservoir to each of the plurality of compartments (20) at predetermined intervals. The timer mechanism (70) may be used to set the desired time interval, and the flow control mechanism may enable each of the plurality of compartments (20) to be periodically filled with fluid. Here, the timer mechanism (70) may adjust the flow control mechanism so that each compartment is filled with fluid until the desired time interval has elapsed, after which subsequent compartments are filled with fluid.

[0039] In one embodiment, the timer mechanism (70) can be either a discrete control mechanism or a continuous control mechanism. The flow control mechanism for a continuous control mechanism can be configured to align the cam (80) to deliver fluid to each of the multiple compartments (20) for a predetermined interval. The timer mechanism (70) can include a biasing member having one end coupled to the flow control mechanism and the other end coupled to a knob for manually applying a load to the biasing member and setting the desired time interval. The desired time interval can be changed by varying the stiffness of the biasing member. In one embodiment, the biasing member can be a compression spring, an extension spring, or the like. In one embodiment, the timer mechanism (70) can be a radial timer mechanism (70) as seen in FIG. 1a or a linear timer mechanism (70) as seen in FIGS. 6a-6d. The radial timer mechanism (70a) can regulate fluid flow to multiple compartments (20) because the plunger (72) of the timer mechanism (70) can rotate radially, as can be seen in FIG. 7b. In contrast, the linear timer mechanism (70b) can regulate fluid flow to multiple components (20) because the plunger (72) of the linear timer mechanism (70b) can traverse a linear direction along a portion of the fluid collection device (100), as can be seen in FIGS. 6a and 6c. The configuration of the multiple conduits (25) can vary based on the timer mechanism (70). For example, the multiple conduits (25) can have a radially branching configuration, as can be seen in FIG. 1 corresponding to the radial timer mechanism (70a). For example, the multiple conduits (25) can have a linear configuration defined along the collection container (10) corresponding to the linear timer mechanism (70b), as can be seen in FIGS. 6c and 6d. The timer mechanism (70) can be spring-loaded and optionally controlled by a powered motor.

[0040] Furthermore, the flow control mechanism may be defined by a cam (80), which has a fluid flow path from the fluid tube (16) to one of the compartments (20) depending on the position of the cam (80). The position of the cam (80) may be adjusted while applying a load to the biasing member of the timer mechanism (70). The desired time interval setting of the flow control mechanism may be varied, for example, from 30 to 60 minutes, depending on application requirements. In one embodiment, the flow control mechanism and the timer mechanism (70) are coupled to each other so that the fluid does not come into contact with the biasing member of the timer mechanism (70), preventing contamination, corrosion, and damage. This makes the flow control mechanism a reusable element, and the collection container (10) a container for replaceable or single-use applications. In one embodiment, the valve assembly (30) may include a weight and estimated volume scale for measuring the total weight / volume of collected fluid. The collection container (10) may include a hook (18) on its top so that it can be supported or suspended on a support structure, such as a bed frame, located close to the user. The hooks (18) may be configured to selectively extend and retract relative to the fluid collection device (100) based on the inflow of fluid into the collection container (10). In one embodiment, the extent of extension or contraction of the hooks (18) relative to the fluid collection device (100) may correspond to changes in the volume of fluid within the collection container (10). In one embodiment, the hooks (18) may be spring-activated, which may provide a relative amount of spring force, thereby allowing the hooks (18) to be flexible.

[0041] Referring now to FIGS. 4a-5, the device 100 may include a sleeve 40 removably coupled to or embedded in the collection container 10. The sleeve 40 may include one or more printed conductive strips 42, which may function as capacitive transducers to electronically measure the total volume / weight of fluid collected in each compartment. In one embodiment, the one or more printed conductive strips 42 may function as non-conductive capacitive volume sensors. The printed conductive strips 42 may be communicatively coupled to at least one control unit (not explicitly shown in the figures). The at least one control unit may be communicatively coupled to the device 100. The printed conductive strips 42 may extend along the length of the sleeve 40 to independently monitor fluid levels at various locations, such as in each compartment. Each printed conductive strip may be encapsulated in an insulating film to prevent shorting of the printed conductive strips 42 due to fluid. Each of the printed conductive strips (42) can be electrically actuated by at least one control unit to derive a separate signal from which a differential signal can be determined. This differential signal can then be compared to a predetermined maximum differential signal to estimate the volume of fluid present in each of the compartments (20). In one embodiment, the sleeve (40) can be an add-on sleeve (40) for attaching the sleeve (40) to the collection container (10).

[0042] Additionally, the collection container (10) may incorporate a volume scale (22), a digital refractometer (50), and a urinometer (not explicitly shown) for measuring specific gravity, along with instructions for recording and measuring the volume of a given fluid collected in the compartment (20) when the compartment (20) expands. The volume scale (22) on the collection container (10) may be a quantity measurement scale ranging from 10 ml to 200 ml, with 1 ml increments and 5 ml divisions. In one example, the urinometer for specific gravity measures a range of 1.0 to 1.04 in the urine collection container (10). In one embodiment, the specific gravity measured by the urinometer may be adjusted to ambient temperature for greater accuracy. The volume increments may vary depending on the intended collection fluid, ranging from a few ml to larger volumes of fluid. In one embodiment, each compartment (20) includes at least one sealing port (24) for inserting a syringe needle for fluid sample collection. Such sealing ports 24 allow for easy and rapid fluid sample collection, which can be used at any time for routine pathology testing, microscopy, or culture sensitivity evaluation. At least one sealing port 24 is fabricated from a flexible material, such as rubber or other medical-grade material.

[0043] 7a-7d, the device 100 may include a radial timer mechanism 70 coupled to the fluid tube 16 for regulating the flow of fluid into the device 100. The vessel is shown in a rectangular parallelepiped configuration visible in the figures for housing the plurality of conduits 25 and the radial timer mechanism 70. The plurality of conduits 25 may be defined linearly along the lateral direction of the device 100 and extend vertically toward the radial timer mechanism 70, as can be seen in FIG.

[0044] In one embodiment, at least one control unit may be communicatively coupled to the fluid collection device (100). The at least one control unit may receive one of the set of images from an image capture device communicatively coupled to the at least one control unit. The image capture device may be disposed in the fluid communication device (100), external to the fluid collection device (100), or disposed in a mobile communication device such as, but not limited to, a smartphone, computer, or the like. The at least one control unit may be configured to receive the set of images from the image capture device (100) to determine the volume, flow rate, specific gravity, and weight of the fluid. In one embodiment, the device (100) may include a plurality of analysis strips (60) disposed within the collection container (10). Each of the analysis strips (60) may include multiple reagent-coated patches (62), which act as chemical indicators to aid in the detection of bodily fluid parameters such as white blood cells, glucose, ketones, bilirubin, blood, specific gravity, protein, urobilinogen, nitrite, ascorbic acid, and pH. The reagent-coated patches (62) change color when fluid comes into contact with the analysis strip (60). The changed color of the reagent-coated patches (62) may be manually tested against standard color-change standards to detect the parameters. In one embodiment, the compartments (20) may be pre-filled with reagents for the instant detection of various parameters. In one embodiment, the changed color of the reagent-coated patches (62) may be captured by an image capture device and transmitted to at least one control unit to detect the fluid parameters.

[0045] The at least one control unit may include a processor and a memory unit communicatively coupled to the processor. The processor may be implemented as one or more microprocessors, microcomputers, microcontrollers, digital signal processors, central processing units, state machines, logic circuits, and / or any device that manipulates signals based on operational instructions. The memory unit may store processor-executable instructions that, when executed, cause the processor to receive one or more command signals associated with user input from a user interface unit coupled to the device (100). In one embodiment, the user interface unit may be coupled to the at least one control unit to receive input from a user for measuring the total volume of fluid in each compartment.

[0046] Referring again to FIGS. 4a-5, the fluid collection device (100) may include multiple sensors disposed within the fluid collection device (100) for measuring the volume, weight, and specific gravity of the fluid and transmitting signals corresponding to the volume, weight, and specific gravity of the fluid. At least one control unit is configured to compare the volume and specific gravity of the fluid with a set of predetermined values. The at least one control unit may be configured to determine the flow rate of the fluid based on inputs provided by the multiple sensors. The fluid collection device (100) may include multiple sensors disposed in the collection container (10) for individually sensing the volume, weight, and specific gravity of the fluid, the multiple sensors measuring each of the volume, weight, and specific gravity parameters. The at least one control unit may be configured to estimate the flow rate, volume, weight, and specific gravity of the fluid based on the comparison with the set of predetermined values. The multiple sensors may include a digital refractometer (50) configured to sense the refractive index of the fluid and transmit at least one signal corresponding to the refractive index of the fluid to the at least one control unit, as can be seen in FIG. 4b. The at least one control unit may be configured to determine the specific gravity of the fluid based on at least one signal corresponding to the refractive index of the fluid transmitted by the refractometer (50). Real-time measurement of the specific gravity of the fluid may be performed via a conventional digital refractometer (50) sensor system consisting of an LED diode, a sensing plate, and a photodiode. Liquid may remain in the collection device (100) and may not contact the sensor in the controller. The collection container (10) may include a sampling window designed into the bag that couples to the digital refractometer (50) sensor on the controller. In one embodiment, the multiple sensors may include a displacement sensor configured to measure the extension of the hook (18) and transmit at least one signal corresponding to the extension of the hook (18). The at least one control unit may be configured to determine the total weight of the collection container (10) based on the at least one signal corresponding to the extension of the hook (18).

[0047] In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, the user interface unit may include various software and hardware interfaces, such as a web interface, a graphical user interface, and the like. Additionally, the device (100) may include a communications module that facilitates interaction between the device (100) and applications installable on the computing device, through which the operation of the flow controller may be remotely configured and controlled. In one embodiment, the computing device may include, but is not limited to, a laptop computer, a desktop computer, a workstation, a mainframe computer, a server, a network server, the cloud, a handheld device, a wearable device, and the like. Communication between the device and the computing device may occur through a variety of network and protocol types, including wired networks, such as LANs, cables, and wireless networks, such as WLANs, cellular, or satellites. In one embodiment, communication may occur via RF, radio frequency [RF], Bluetooth® Low Energy, LoRa, ZigBee®, and the like. In one embodiment, the display of the computing device may also function as a user interface unit. Additionally, the at least one control unit is coupled to a power source for operating the printed capacitive strip. In one embodiment, the power source is a battery.

[0048] In one embodiment, the control unit is disposed on at least one of the sleeve (40), the valve assembly (30), or the collection container (10), or is disposed within a movable communication device communicatively coupled to the fluid collection device (100).

[0049] In one embodiment, each of the compartments (20) comprises an outlet duct (26) connected to a plurality of analytical strips (60). The fluid in each of the compartments (20) can be selectively introduced into the analytical strip (60) by manually compressing at least one compartment (20) to force the fluid into the analytical strip (60).

[0050] In one embodiment, the assay strip is provided with a machine-readable optical label, such as a barcode, QR code, or the like, which, when scanned, provides a standard color change criterion based on which early detection of disease can be determined.

[0051] In another embodiment, a set of images may be captured to analyze and detect color changes in the reagent-coated patches 62 using a computer vision algorithm application that corrects / normalizes for lighting conditions in the captured images to accurately assess and detect disease based on the detected parameters.

[0052] In one embodiment, the device 100 is applicable to determine urine volume, which helps detect urine volume at any time interval depending on the clinical setting in which the device 100 is used. Specifically, urine measurements can help in the early detection of infections, acute kidney injury, and oliguria. Additionally, collecting different bodily fluids can help understand the status of a user's vital organs.

[0053] In another embodiment, device 100 may facilitate the collection and analysis of samples from external environmental sources such as bodies of water, chemical plants, etc. Additionally, device 100 may be coupled to an external device that periodically and continuously supplies the fluid to be tested.

[0054] In one embodiment, the structural and dimensional design of the device (100) may be varied based on requirements / applications.

[0055] In one embodiment, device 100 requires a minimal number of components and can be manufactured economically.

[0056] In one embodiment, the device (100) allows for highly accurate real-time analysis of bodily fluids.

[0057] In one embodiment, the device (100) is compact and allows for the collection of increased volumes of bodily fluids to monitor changes in the properties of the bodily fluids over longer durations.

[0058] At least one control unit may be comprised of a processing unit. The processing unit may include at least one data processor for executing program components to fulfill user- or system-generated requests. The processing unit may be a dedicated processing unit such as an integrated system (bus) controller, memory management control unit, floating-point unit, graphics processing unit, digital signal processing unit, etc. The processing unit may include a microprocessor such as an AMD Athlon, Duron, or Opteron, ARM application, embedded, or secure processor, IBM PowerPC, Intel Core, Itanium, Xenon, Celeron, or other family of processors. The processing unit may be implemented using mainframe, distributed processor, multicore, parallel, grid, or other architectures. Some embodiments may utilize embedded technologies such as application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), digital signal processors (DSPs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), etc.

[0059] The at least one control unit may be arranged to communicate with one or more memory devices (e.g., RAM, ROM, etc.) via a storage interface. The storage interface may connect to memory devices including, but not limited to, memory drives, removable disk drives, etc. using connection protocols such as Serial Advanced Technology Attachment (SATA), Integrated Drive Electronics (IDE), IEEE-1394, Universal Serial Bus (USB), Fibre Channel, Small Computing System Interface (SCSI), etc. The memory drives may further include drum, magnetic disk drives, magneto-optical drives, optical drives, redundant array of independent discs (RAID), solid state memory devices, solid state drives, etc.

[0060] Reference is now made to Figure 8. Figure 8 is an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure illustrating a method for analyzing fluid in a fluid collection device (100).

[0061] The method may be described in the general context of processor-executable instructions in at least one control unit. Generally, executable instructions may include routines, programs, objects, components, data structures, procedures, modules, and functions that perform particular functions or implement particular abstract data types.

[0062] The order in which the method is described is not intended to be construed as a limitation, and any number of the described method blocks may be combined to implement the method. Additionally, individual blocks may be deleted from the method without departing from the scope of the subject matter described herein. Furthermore, the method may be implemented in any suitable hardware, software, firmware, or combination thereof.

[0063] The fluid collection device (100) may be configured to receive a user's fluid into a plurality of compartments (20) through at least one inlet port (12), in block 201. The at least one control unit may receive one of the set of images from an image capture device communicatively coupled to the at least one control unit. The image capture device may be disposed within the fluid collection device (100), external to the fluid collection device (100), or within a mobile communication device, such as, but not limited to, a smartphone, laptop, etc.

[0064] The at least one control unit may be configured to determine the volume, flow rate, specific gravity, and weight of the fluid upon receiving a set of images from the image capture device in block 202. In one embodiment, the device (100) may include multiple analysis strips (60) disposed within the collection container (10). Each analysis strip (60) may include multiple reagent-coated patches (62), which act as chemical indicators to aid in the detection of bodily fluid parameters such as white blood cells, glucose, ketones, bilirubin, blood, specific gravity, protein, urobilinogen, nitrite, ascorbic acid, and pH. The reagent-coated patches (62) change color when fluid comes into contact with the analysis strip (60). The changed color of the reagent-coated patches (62) may be manually tested against standard color-change standards to detect the parameters. In one embodiment, the compartments (20) may be pre-filled with reagents for immediate detection of various parameters. In one embodiment, the changed color of the reagent-coated patch (62) may be captured by an image capture device and transmitted to at least one control unit to detect parameters of the fluid. The fluid collection device (100) may include multiple sensors disposed within the collection container (10) to sense the volume, weight, and specific gravity of the fluid, the multiple sensors measuring the volume, weight, and specific gravity parameters.

[0065] At least one control unit may be configured to determine the volume and specific gravity of the fluid upon receiving signals from a plurality of sensors disposed within the fluid collection device (100) in block 203. In one embodiment, a set of images from the image capture device and signals from the sensors may be received in real time by the at least one control unit. At least one control unit may be configured to compare the volume and specific gravity of the fluid to a set of predetermined values ​​in block 204. The set of predetermined values ​​may be stored in a memory associated with the at least one control unit. In one embodiment, the at least one control unit may be configured to integrate the determined volume and specific gravity of the fluid with historical user values ​​stored in the memory for comparison. In one embodiment, the set of predetermined values ​​may correspond to clinical guidelines. At least one control unit may be configured to estimate the flow rate, volume, weight, and specific gravity of the fluid based on the comparison with the set of predetermined values ​​in block 205. The at least one control unit may be configured to send an alert based on the comparison of the volume and specific gravity to the set of predetermined values ​​to indicate a health risk to the user, or the like.

[0066] In one embodiment, the at least one control unit may utilize a machine learning model for the analysis of the fluid.

[0067] equivalent With respect to the use of substantially any plural and / or singular terms herein, those skilled in the art will be able to convert from plural to singular and / or from singular to plural as appropriate depending on the context and / or application. Various singular / plural variations may be expressly set forth herein for clarity of description.

[0068] Those skilled in the art will generally understand that the terms used in this specification, and particularly in the appended claims (e.g., the body of the appended claims), are generally intended as “open” terms (e.g., the term “including” should be interpreted as “including, but not limited to,” the term “having” should be interpreted as “having at least,” the term “includes” should be interpreted as “including, but not limited to,” etc.). It will be further understood by those skilled in the art that where a specific number is intended in an introduced claim recitation, such intention will be expressly set forth in the claim; in the absence of such a recitation, no such intention is present. For example, as an aid to understanding, the following appended claims may include the use of the introductory phrases “at least one” and “one or more” to introduce claim recitations. However, the use of such phrases should not be construed as meaning that the introduction of a claim recitation with the indefinite article “a” or “an” limits any particular claim that includes such an introduced claim recitation to an invention that includes only one such recitation. This is true even when the same claim includes the introductory phrase "one or more" or "at least one" and an indefinite article such as "a" or "an" (e.g., "a" and / or "an" should generally be interpreted to mean "at least one" or "one or more"), and the same applies to the use of definite articles used to introduce claim recitations. Additionally, even when a specific number is explicitly recited in an introduced claim recitation, those skilled in the art will recognize that such recitation should generally be interpreted to mean at least the recited number (e.g., the bare recitation "two recitations," without any other qualifier, typically means at least two recitations, or more than two recitations).Furthermore, in instances where conventional language similar to "at least one of A, B, and C, etc." is used, such syntax is generally intended to be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art (e.g., a system having "at least one of A, B, and C" includes, but is not limited to, systems having only A, only B, only C, both A and B, both A and C, both B and C, and / or all of A, B, and C, etc.). In instances where conventional language similar to "at least one of A, B, and C, etc." is used, such syntax is generally intended to be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art (e.g., a system having "at least one of A, B, and C" includes, but is not limited to, systems having only A, only B, only C, both A and B, both A and C, both B and C, and / or all of A, B, and C, etc.). It will be further understood by those skilled in the art that virtually any disjunction and / or phrase presenting two or more alternative terms, whether in the detailed description, claims, or drawings, should be understood to contemplate the possibility of including one of the terms, either of the terms, or both terms. For example, the phrase "A or B" will be understood to include the possibilities of "A" or "B" or "A and B."

[0069] Additionally, although features or aspects of the present disclosure have been described in terms of Markush groups, those skilled in the art will recognize that the present disclosure may also be described thereby in terms of any individual member or subgroup of members of a Markush group.

[0070] While various aspects and embodiments have been disclosed herein, other aspects and embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art. The various aspects and embodiments disclosed herein are intended to be illustrative and not limiting, with the true scope and spirit being indicated by the following claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0071] 100 devices 10 Collection Containers 11 Entrance section 12 inlet port 14 Exit Port 16 tubes 18 Hook 20 Multiple Compartments 22 Volume Scale 24 Seal Port 25 Conduit 26 Exit duct 30 Valve Assembly and Refractometer Housing, Digital Controller 32 Enclosure 40 sleeve 42 printed conductive strips 50 Refractometer 60 Multiple Analysis Strips 62 Reagent-Coated Patches 70 Timer mechanism 70a Radial Timer Mechanism 70b Linear timer mechanism 72 Plunger 80 Cam

Claims

1. A fluid collection device (100), comprising: a collection vessel (10) defining a reservoir, said reservoir being defined by a plurality of conduits (25); at least one inlet port (12) defined on an inlet portion (11) of said collection container (10), said inlet port (12) fluidly connected to receive fluid from a user; a plurality of compartments (20) defined within the reservoir, each compartment (20) of the plurality of compartments (20) configured to receive and collect a different amount of the fluid; a valve assembly (30) connectable between the at least one inlet port (12) and the plurality of compartments (20), the valve assembly (30) comprising a plurality of fixtures connected to each of the plurality of compartments (20) via the plurality of conduits (25), the valve assembly (30) being configured to selectively allow the flow of the fluid from the reservoir to the plurality of compartments (20) at predetermined intervals; A fluid collection device (100) comprising:

2. The fluid collection device (100) of claim 1, wherein the at least one inlet port (12) is fluidly connected to the user by a fluid tube (16).

3. 2. The fluid collection device (100) of claim 1, wherein the valve assembly (30) is defined by an enclosure (32) having one end connected to the at least one inlet port (12).

4. 4. The fluid collection device (100) of claim 3, wherein the valve assembly (30) includes a timer mechanism (70) and a flow control mechanism within the enclosure (32) configured to selectively allow the flow of the fluid from the reservoir to each of the plurality of compartments (20) at the predetermined intervals.

5. The fluid collection device (100) of claim 4, wherein the timer mechanism (70) is a discrete control mechanism.

6. The fluid collection device (100) of claim 4, wherein the timer mechanism (70) is a continuous control mechanism.

7. 5. The fluid collection device (100) of claim 4, wherein the flow control mechanism is defined by a cam having a flow path for the fluid from the fluid tube (16) to one of the plurality of compartments (20).

8. 5. The fluid collection device (100) of claim 4, wherein the timer mechanism (70) is configured to adjust the flow control mechanism so that each compartment (20) of the plurality of compartments (20) is filled with the fluid until the predetermined interval has elapsed, and then subsequent compartments (20) are filled with the fluid.

9. 5. The fluid collection device (100) of claim 4, wherein the timer mechanism (70) comprises a biasing member having one end connected to the flow control mechanism and another end coupled to a knob for manually applying a load to the biasing member and setting the predetermined interval.

10. The fluid collection device (100) of claim 1, comprising at least one control unit communicatively coupled to the fluid collection device (100).

11. 11. The fluid collection device (100) of claim 10, wherein the at least one control unit is configured to receive one of a set of images from an image capture device and signals from a plurality of sensors disposed within the fluid collection device (100) to measure a flow rate, a volume, and a specific gravity of the fluid.

12. 12. The fluid collection device (100) of claim 11, wherein the at least one control unit is configured to compare the volume and specific gravity of the fluid to a set of predetermined values ​​and determine a flow rate of the fluid based on inputs provided by the plurality of sensors.

13. 13. The fluid collection device (100) of claim 12, wherein the at least one control unit is configured to estimate a flow rate, a volume, a weight, and a specific gravity of the fluid based on a comparison with the set of predetermined values.

14. 2. The fluid collection device (100) of claim 1, comprising a hook (18) connectable to the collection container (10) at an upper portion thereof and configured to selectively expand and contract relative to the fluid collection device (100) based on the flow of fluid into the collection container (10).

15. The fluid collection device (100) of claim 10, wherein the hook (18) is a spring-activated mechanism.

16. 12. The fluid collection device (100) of claim 11, wherein the plurality of sensors comprises a refractometer (50) configured to sense a refractive index of the fluid and transmit at least one signal corresponding to the refractive index of the fluid to the at least one control unit.

17. 17. The fluid collection device (100) of claim 16, wherein the at least one control unit is configured to determine the specific gravity of the fluid based on the at least one signal corresponding to the refraction of the fluid transmitted by the refractometer (50).

18. 10. The fluid collection device (100) of claim 1, comprising a plurality of analysis strips (60) in fluid communication with the plurality of compartments (20) and configured to receive the fluid for analysis of the fluid.

19. 10. The fluid collection device (100) of claim 1, wherein each compartment of the plurality of compartments (20) is defined with at least one sealing port (24) configured to allow fluid sample collection.

20. A method for analyzing a fluid in a fluid collection device (100), comprising: receiving a user's fluid into a plurality of compartments (20) through at least one inlet port (12), wherein the fluid collection device (100) is defined having the plurality of compartments (20) and the at least one inlet port (12); determining, by at least one control unit, a volume and a specific gravity of the fluid upon receiving one of a set of captured images from an image capture device (100) and a signal from a sensor disposed within the fluid collection device (100); comparing, by the at least one control unit, the volume of the fluid and the specific gravity to a set of predetermined values; determining, by the at least one control unit, a flow rate of the fluid based on inputs provided by a plurality of sensors; estimating, by the at least one control unit, the flow rate of the fluid and comparing it with the set of predetermined values ​​for analysis of the fluid; A method comprising:

Images