Sensor cable support device including mechanical connector

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, entitled “Sensor Cable Support Device Including Mechanical Connectors,” filed March 28, 2018, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. [Background technology]

[0002] Invasive biosensors, such as sensors for wearable monitoring devices, include thin sensor wires or electrodes that are insertable into the patient's skin. A sensing circuit reads biometric information about the patient through the thin wire. To use some devices, the patient or a medical professional is required 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 may be too complicated for some patients to perform alone and / or too expensive to have a medical professional perform. In addition, such devices may include multiple openings where the wires and sensing circuitry may be exposed to potential moisture that can significantly affect the performance of the biosensor.

[0003] It is possible for the sensor wire to be preassembled 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 may damage the sensor wire, especially if the sensor wire is coated with a film. In addition, such an approach may result in a sensor wire that is inadequately stiff as a result of the 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 circuitry, power sources, etc., and to process biological information, a wearable monitoring device may include multiple parts that are joined together to form a working device. Using multiple parts not only makes the device bulky, but also creates multiple areas (e.g., seals between parts) that allow moisture ingress. Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] One general aspect includes a support apparatus for supporting a sensor cable, the support apparatus including a rigid body defining a pair of openings. Each opening is sized and configured to receive a conductive puck. The rigid body is configured to support a proximal end of the sensor cable and electrically couple the sensor cable to a sensing circuit of a monitoring device. The support apparatus also includes a set of rigid legs connected to the rigid body and extending away from a bottom side of the rigid body. The support apparatus also includes 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 rigid legs. The support apparatus also includes 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 rigid legs.

[0006] Another general aspect includes a wearable monitoring device including a printed circuit board disposed within a housing having an exterior 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. 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 is 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 pucks positioned within the pair of conductive openings such that a first puck of the pair of pucks mechanically holds a first portion in electrical contact with the first conductive opening and a second puck of the pair of pucks 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 the skin of a person, the first portion including a means for generating glucose information. The analyte monitoring system also includes a sensor holder system including an alignment means for physically aligning a second portion of the sensor cable. The sensor holder system also includes a holding means for physically holding the second portion of the sensor cable. The sensor holder system also includes a support means for physically supporting the alignment means and the holding means. The sensor holder system also includes a coupling means for electrically coupling the second portion of the sensor cable to a circuit disposed on a printed circuit board for determining an analyte level of the person.

[0008] Yet another general aspect includes a sensor cable support system including a sensor cable support apparatus. The sensor cable support apparatus also includes a body having a pair of conductive openings. The sensor cable support apparatus also includes a set of legs extending away from a bottom side of the body. The sensor cable support apparatus also includes a pair of electrical traces extending between the pair of conductive openings and a distal end of the pair of legs of the set of legs. The sensor cable support system also includes a sensor cable including a first portion in electrical contact with a first conductive opening of the pair of conductive openings to form a first electrical connection. The sensor cable also includes 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 cable support system also includes a pair of pucks positioned in the pair of conductive openings such that a first puck of the pair of pucks mechanically holds the first portion in electrical contact with the first conductive opening and a second puck of the pair of pucks mechanically holds the second portion in electrical contact with the second conductive opening. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0009] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate one or more specific examples and, together with the description of the examples, serve to explain the principles and implementations of the particular examples.

[0010] [Figure 1] 1 illustrates a perspective view of a monitoring device that can include a sensor cable support device according to at least one embodiment. [Diagram 2] 2 illustrates a partially exploded view of the monitoring device of FIG. 1 with the top enclosure removed according to at least one embodiment. [Diagram 3] FIG. 1 illustrates a top perspective view of a sensor cable support arrangement according to at least one embodiment. [Figure 4] 4 illustrates a bottom perspective view of the sensor cable support arrangement of FIG. 3 according to at least one embodiment. [Diagram 5]1 illustrates an exploded perspective view of an embodiment of a sensor holder system including a sensor cable support apparatus according to at least one embodiment. [Figure 6] 6 illustrates a bottom perspective view of the sensor holder system of FIG. 5 according to at least one embodiment. [Figure 7] 1 illustrates a top view of a sensor cable support arrangement according to at least one embodiment. [Figure 8] 1 illustrates a top view of a sensor cable support arrangement according to at least one embodiment. [Figure 9] 9 illustrates a top perspective view of the sensor cable support arrangement of FIG. 8 according to at least one embodiment. [Figure 10] 1 illustrates a partial exploded view of a monitoring device including an integrated sensor cable support arrangement according to at least one embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0011] Examples are described herein in the context of a sensor cable support apparatus for use in a continuous monitoring system. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the following description is illustrative only and is not intended to be limiting in any way. Reference will now be made in detail to example implementations that are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. The same reference indices are used throughout the drawings and the following description to refer to the same or similar items.

[0012] For clarity, not all of the routine features of the embodiments described herein are shown and described. Of course, it will be understood that the development of any such actual implementation will require many implementation-specific decisions to be made in order to achieve the particular goals of the developer, such as adhering to application-related and business-related constraints, and that these particular goals will vary from implementation to implementation and developer to developer.

[0013] In an exemplary embodiment, a wearable glucose monitor (e.g., a body-wearable device such as a subcutaneous monitor) or system includes a glucose sensor that can be inserted into a person's skin to continuously monitor the person's glucose concentration. While worn, the wearable glucose monitor may be exposed to normal external forces due to wearing clothes, hitting obstacles, and other external forces. To reduce the effects of these forces and to improve the comfort of the wearer, the footprint and profile of the glucose monitor may be reduced. As a method for reducing, the glucose monitor described herein includes a sensor cable support device. The sensor cable support device has a unique shape that allows it to perform a variety of functions and also efficiently utilizes space within the glucose monitor. The unique shape is defined by a body that is supported by legs that extend from the body. The legs are connected to a printed circuit board ("PCB") on the underside of the body and function to space the body 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 longer sensor cables that provide a gentler radius of curvature as 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 circuitry, can be located below the body, in a void formed below the body. In this manner, the sensor cable support device provides efficient use of space within the glucose monitoring device (e.g., allowing stacking of components, reducing the overall footprint of the device).

[0014] The functions performed by the sensor cable support device include structurally supporting the electrodes proximal to the glucose sensor contained in the sensor cable, aligning the sensor cable of the glucose sensor toward the person's skin, and electrically connecting the electrodes to the PCB. The sensor cable support device structurally supports the electrodes via a pair of conductive elastomeric pucks or other similar mechanical connectors that are inserted into corresponding conductive holes in the body of the sensor cable support device. The conductive puck and hole approach for connecting the electrodes avoids potential damage from exposure to high heat of the electrodes. And unlike methods that rigidly attach the electrodes to the sensor cable support device, the puck and hole approach provides passive stress relief based on the elastomeric properties and shape of the puck compared to the electrodes and holes. The puck and hole approach also electrically connects the electrodes to the conductive surface adjacent and / or within the conductive holes. Each hole is electrically connected to the PCB via an electrical trace that extends from the hole, down the leg, and terminates at the distal end of the leg that is 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 extending across the first hole is aligned with a second groove extending across the second hole. In this manner, the first and second coaxial electrodes of the sensor cable can be held within the first and second grooves, respectively. Although the sensor cable support apparatus is described herein with reference to a wearable glucose monitoring device, it will be understood that the sensor cable support apparatus can be implemented to support any suitable body-wearable electromechanical sensor (e.g., subcutaneous monitoring systems, deep brain stimulators, cochlear implants, cardiac pacemakers, bioelectrical devices, and other similar devices).

[0015] In one embodiment, a sensor cable support apparatus is described. The sensor cable support apparatus includes a rigid body having a pair of openings, each opening sized and configured to receive a conductive puck. The sensor cable support apparatus 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 extending distally from a bottom portion of the rigid body. For example, a proximal portion of the member can be connected to the rigid body at the underside of the rigid body. The members can extend away from the underside in substantially the same direction. When the sensor cable support apparatus is mounted to a mounting surface (e.g., a printed circuit board of a monitoring device), the set of legs supports the rigid body in an orientation that is spaced away from the mounting surface. The set of legs can include members that are integral with the rigid body, members that are external to the rigid body but connected or otherwise attached 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 apparatus also includes a first electrical trace electrically coupling a first opening of the pair of openings and a distal end of a 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 examples, the first electrical trace is formed on the first leg using a laser direct structuring technique. In this manner, the first electrical trace can be visible on an outer surface of the first leg. The sensor cable support apparatus also includes a second electrical trace electrically coupling a second opening of the pair of openings and a distal end of a 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 a user, such as by a mounting device such as an adhesive or clip; can be partially or wholly implanted on a person, such as by inserting a portion of the device (e.g., a sensor wire) into the wearer's skin or fully embedded under the wearer's skin; and the like. The wearable monitoring device includes a printed circuit board disposed within a housing having an exterior surface for positioning the wearable monitoring device on the 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 that extend away from a bottom surface of the body. For example, the set of legs can be connected proximally at a bottom side of the body, with ends extending distally away from the bottom side. The set of legs can also be connected proximally at a perimeter of an edge of the bottom surface, at a peripheral edge of a top side, at a set of side walls of the body, and at any other suitable location of the body. In some examples, the body has a generally rectangular shape, with each leg of the set of legs extending away from a corner of a bottom side of the body. The sensor cable support apparatus can be physically coupled to a 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 examples, a conductive ring is fitted within each opening. The pair of conductive openings can be electrically insulated from one another. 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 in electrical contact with a first conductive opening of the pair of conductive openings to form a first electrical connection, and a second portion of a second wire 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 elastomeric pucks disposed within the pair of conductive openings such that a first puck of the pair of pucks mechanically holds the first portion of the first wire in electrical contact with the first conductive opening and a second puck of the pair of pucks mechanically holds the second portion of the second wire 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 including a first distal portion insertable into a person's skin, the first distal portion including a means for generating glucose information (e.g., a distal portion of two or more wires including a distal terminal), 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., a proximal portion of the two or more wires). The sensor cable support system also includes holding means for physically holding the second portion of the sensor cable. The sensor cable support system also includes 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 a circuit disposed on a printed circuit board for determining a glucose concentration of the person.

[0018] In another embodiment, a sensor cable support system is described. The sensor cable support system includes a sensor cable support apparatus including a body having a pair of conductive openings formed therein. The sensor cable support apparatus also includes a set of legs extending away from a bottom side of the body. The sensor cable support apparatus also includes a pair of electrical traces extending between the pair of conductive openings and a distal end of the pair of legs of the set of legs. The sensor holder system also includes a sensor cable 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 cable support system also includes a pair of pucks positioned in the pair of openings such that a first puck of the pair of pucks mechanically holds a first portion of the sensor cable in physical contact with the first conductive opening and a second puck of the pair of pucks mechanically holds a second portion of the sensor cable in physical contact with the second opening.

[0019] Referring now to the figures, Figures 1 and 2 respectively illustrate a perspective view of a monitoring device 100 and a partially exploded view of a monitoring device 100 including a biosensor 102, according to various embodiments. The monitoring device 100 may be a wearable monitoring device that is attached to the body externally (e.g., against a person's skin), held externally against the body, implanted within the body (e.g., subcutaneously beneath the 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 area 108, and the biosensor 102.

[0020] The top enclosure 104 and the bottom enclosure 106 together form a housing that encapsulates 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 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 away from the 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 hit the person's skin when worn. For example, the monitoring device 100 may be worn under clothing (e.g., on a person's arm), and a smooth surface reduces the potential for the person's clothing to snag on the monitoring device 100.

[0021] The biosensor 102, e.g., an analyte sensor, glucose sensor, or other electromechanical sensor for use in sensing a human biometric, includes a sensor cable support arrangement 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 arrangement 110. For example, the proximal end portion 112a can be disposed within a groove or channel of the sensor cable support arrangement 110 and physically held by pucks 122a, 122b. The proximal end portion 112a is also electrically connected to the PCB 118 via the sensor cable support arrangement 110. For example, as described in detail herein, the sensor cable support apparatus 110 may include a set of electrical traces that extend proximate a mid-region of the sensor cable support apparatus 110 toward the PCB 118. The cable alignment structure 126 may also be integrated into the sensor cable support apparatus 110. For example, an elongated cylindrical leg may be formed in the sensor cable support apparatus 110 through which the sensor cable 112 may extend through the PCB 118. In use, the distal end portion 112b, including one or more electrodes, is injected into a person's skin to measure a biological parameter (e.g., glucose concentration) of interstitial fluid in the subcutaneous tissue below the skin.

[0022] The sensor cable 112 can include a curved portion that extends through the PCB 118 and a bottom opening 124 of the bottom enclosure 106. As illustrated, a cable alignment structure 126 is included on the PCB 118 at a location adjacent the bottom opening 124. The cable alignment structure 126 can include a pair of tabs, grooves, or other structures that can align the sensor cable 112 through the bottom opening 124. The cable alignment structure 126 can be a component attached to the PCB 118 or can be integrated into the structure of the bottom enclosure 106 (e.g., can be formed simultaneously using the same techniques used to form the bottom enclosure 106). The top enclosure 104 includes a top opening 127 that is 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 the person's skin. In some embodiments, the top opening 127 is formed from a deformable material that can reseal after an insertion needle is inserted therethrough. In this manner, 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 into bottom opening 124 while pressing monitoring device 100 against the person's skin can achieve proper alignment of the insertion needle to insert sensor cable 112 into the person's skin. In some embodiments, bottom opening 124 includes a sensor guiding structure that can be used to guide the insertion needle through monitoring device 100.

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

[0025] The sensor cable support apparatus 110 can be considered an interconnection apparatus. For example, the sensor cable support apparatus 110 functions to conserve space within the monitoring device 100 because the sensor cable support apparatus 110 can stand off the PCB 118 and above the components (e.g., the sensing circuitry 114, the power supply 116, etc.) located below it. This can result in the monitoring device 100 having a smaller footprint. Additionally, because of the configuration of the sensor cable support apparatus 110 relative to the PCB 118, the PCB 118 can be positioned closer to the person's skin, unlike other monitoring devices that include standoff fixtures. This provides improved wearer comfort and less overall device bulk.

[0026] In some examples, the sensing circuit 114 includes one or more electronic components configured for signal processing. For example, the sensing circuit 114 may include a system-on-chip ("SOC") or a system-in-package ("SIP") that includes any suitable combination components for digital signal processing, analog signal processing, mixed signal processing, and the like, that may be surface-resident or embedded in a PCB assembly. Such components may 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 may be configured to receive an electrical signal from the sensor cable 112 (e.g., via the PCB 118 and the sensor cable support arrangement 110) and process the electrical signal to determine a glucose concentration of the person.

[0027] In some examples, the sensing circuit 114 includes a processing unit and a computer-readable medium, such as a random access memory ("RAM"), coupled to the processing unit. The processing unit can execute computer-executable program instructions stored in the memory, such as executing one or more computer programs. Such a processing unit can comprise 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, e.g., 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 device.

[0028] A processing device may include or be in communication with a medium, e.g., a computer-readable storage medium, that may store instructions that, when executed by the processing device, cause the processing device to perform steps described herein as performed 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 a processing device can read or write information.

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

[0030] The top enclosure 104 and the bottom enclosure 106 together can form a housing for holding the biosensor 102, with the moisture barrier 108 disposed between the top enclosure 104 and the bottom enclosure 106. The housing can be of a compact size for placement on human skin. The housing can be made of any suitable material for housing the biosensor 102. Non-limiting examples of materials that may 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 may include a substantially planar surface to allow for placement of the monitoring device 100 against a person's skin. The monitoring device 100 may be secured to the skin using adhesive, a band, a strap, or other fastening means. In some embodiments, the monitoring device 100 may be worn for extended periods of time (e.g., days, weeks, months, etc.). When assembled, the moisture barrier 108 may create a seal that prevents moisture from penetrating the biosensor 102. Additionally, there may be other seals between the bottom housing opening 124 and the top housing opening 127 that prevent moisture from penetrating the biosensor. The seals may be comprised of adhesives, elastomeric gaskets, or otherwise. When assembled, the top enclosure 104 encapsulates the biosensor 102 and mates with the bottom enclosure 106 (e.g., by a snap fit, a welded joint, or otherwise). The top enclosure 104 may also be glued or otherwise joined to the bottom enclosure 106.

[0032] 3 and 4 respectively illustrate a top perspective view of a sensor cable support apparatus 110 and a bottom perspective view of the sensor cable support apparatus 110, in accordance with various embodiments. The sensor cable support apparatus 110, which is a type of molded interconnect apparatus, can include a body 302 and a set of legs 304. Generally, the body 302 includes a top side or surface 302a and a bottom side or 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), which can be suitably sized and suitably flat to allow a suction head of a robotic placement device (e.g., a pick and place device) to grasp the sensor cable support device 110.

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

[0035] The set of legs 304 extend from one side of the body 302, extend underneath the body 302, and in some embodiments include 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 a second plane to connect the body 302 to the set of feet 308. The body 302 can be oriented in a first plane when a substantial portion of the body 302 is disposed in the first plane. The set of feet 308 (e.g., distal ends of the set of legs 304) can be oriented in a 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 a conductive pad 310. The sensor cable support arrangement 110 may be electrically and structurally attached to a PCB 118 or other structure using conductive pads 310. In some embodiments, the feet 308 are connected to the PCB 118 using surface mount technology.

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

[0037] Conductive surfaces 314a, 314b, shown hatched in the drawings, are disposed within the conductive opening 312. Conductive surface 314a may include conductive material applied or deposited on the inward and outward facing surfaces of conductive opening 312a and may be electrically coupled to electrical trace 316a. Electrical trace 316a extends from conductive surface 314a along leg 304a and connects with conductive pad 310a. Similarly, conductive surface 314b may include conductive material applied or deposited on the inward and outward facing surfaces of conductive opening 312b and may be electrically coupled to electrical trace 316b. Electrical trace 316b extends from conductive surface 314b along leg 304b and connects with conductive pad 310b. In this manner, conductive surface 314a and electrical trace 316a are electrically isolated from conductive surface 314b and electrical trace 316b. The electrical traces 316 may extend along an exterior surface of the sensor cable support arrangement 110 and / or may be disposed within the sensor cable support arrangement 110 .

[0038] To further electrically insulate the conductive surface 314a from the conductive surface 314b, an electrical guard structure 318 may be formed within the body 302. The purpose of the electrical guard structure 318 is to minimize leakage current between the conductive openings 312a, 312b. The electrical guard structure 318 may be any suitable cavity, channel, hole, opening, or structure disposed between the two electrically isolated contacts. In some embodiments, the electrical guard structure 318 acts like a guard trace to minimize crosstalk between the 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 back 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), which can electrically couple the guard trace 320 to the PCB 118.

[0040] The groove 322 can be formed in the top side 302a of the body 302 of the sensor cable support apparatus 110. The groove 322 can span 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 accommodate the sensor cable 112. Specifically, groove 322a is sized to accommodate a first portion of sensor cable 112 (e.g., a first electrode having a first cross-sectional area) and groove 322b is sized to accommodate a second portion of sensor cable 112 (e.g., a second electrode having a second cross-sectional area). In some embodiments, groove 322 has a consistent shape and size. Grooves 322a and 322b can be aligned in a coaxial manner such that elongated, straight sensor cable 112 can contact all of grooves 322a and 322b.

[0041] The use of grooves 322 can allow for one or more independent electrical contacts between sensor cable 112 and conductive surface 314 (e.g., at grooves 322a-1, 322a-2, 322b-1, and 322b-2). Additionally, when puck 122 is also conductive, the number of contacts is further increased. For example, puck 122 can be in physical contact with one or more inner surfaces of conductive opening 312 in which conductive surface 314 is disposed, creating more surface area for electrical contact.

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

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

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

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

[0046] The sensor cable 112 can include one or more electrodes, chemicals, or other means for generating bioinformation. For example, the sensor cable 112 can be a coaxial sensor and can include two electrodes 502a, 502b that are inserted into the person's skin to expose the electrodes 502a, 502b to interstitial fluid in the person's subcutaneous tissue. In some examples, the sensor cable 112 can include two or more separate wires that are not included in the same coating. The electrode 502b includes at least a portion of the sensor cable 112 made of platinum 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. The electrodes 502b, 502a can be used to generate glucose information about the person by generating an electrical signal that corresponds to the amount of glucose present in the interstitial fluid. In some examples, a reactive substance, such as glucose oxidase ("GOX"), can also be coated on the distal end of the electrode 502b to create a reaction product with the 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 the person's glucose concentration. Although this example describes measuring 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 examples based on the application of the biosensor 102.

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

[0048] Referring again to FIG. 3, in some examples, a first dimensional measurement (e.g., width, depth, cross-sectional area, etc.) taken laterally across the groove 322 taken at groove portion 322a may differ from a second dimensional measurement taken laterally across the groove 322 taken at groove portion 322b. These differences may be included in the groove 322 to accommodate the electrodes 502a, 502b. As described herein, the electrodes 502a, 502b may be different sizes (e.g., have different diameters). The different lateral measurements may be selected based on the respective widths of the sensor cable proximal end 112a at different locations. For example, one portion of the proximal end of the sensor cable 112 may be an exposed platinum electrode 502b that may have a finer gauge than another portion that includes a platinum wire coated silver / silver-silver chloride electrode 502a.

[0049] Figure 5 illustrates the sensor holder system 500 in a disassembled state, e.g., illustrating the puck 122 and the sensor cable 112 when removed from the conductive opening 312. Figure 6 illustrates the sensor holder system 500 in a combined state, e.g., illustrating the sensor cable 112 as held in the groove 322 and the puck 122 as placed in the conductive opening 312.

[0050] When installed, the puck 122 holds the sensor cable 112 in physical contact with the sensor cable support apparatus 110 and also electrically couples the electrodes 502 of the sensor cable 112 with the conductive surfaces 314 of the conductive openings 312. As described herein, the puck 122 may be formed from a conductive elastic material (e.g., a carbon loaded silicone elastomer or other similar material). The puck 122 may be molded, extruded, stamped, or otherwise formed using any suitable technique.

[0051] Each puck 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 adjacent end portions 112a of the sensor cable 112. In some embodiments, the slit 508 is less than 1 mm wide. The slit 508 can also be larger or smaller than 1 mm. The slit 508 can also include a portion that corresponds 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 that corresponds to the sensor cable 112. In some embodiments, the slit 508 can be sized to accommodate different diameters of the sensor cable 112.

[0052] The puck 122 can be sized and configured to be placed within the conductive opening 312. In some embodiments, the puck 122 is formed from a deformable conductive material that can be compressed or otherwise pressed into the conductive opening 312. Once within the conductive opening, the deformable material of the puck 122 (e.g., a pair of legs 504) expands and uses friction to hold the puck 122 in place. In some embodiments, whether or not a deformable material is used, the legs 504 can include retention structures 506-1, 506-2. As illustrated in FIG. 6, when the puck 122 is placed in the conductive opening 312 such that the retention structure 506 mates with the bottom side 302b, the retention structure 506 can spring outward. In this manner, the puck 122 can "snap" into the conductive opening 312.

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

[0054] In some examples, the top side of the puck 122 can include a substantially planar area (e.g., greater than 1 mm^2). This top side area can be suitably sized and suitably flat to allow a suction head of a robotic placement device (e.g., a pick-and-place machine) to grasp the puck 122 and place it into the conductive opening 312, thereby physically supporting and electrically coupling the sensor cable 112 to the electrical traces 306.

[0055] FIG. 7 illustrates a top view of a sensor cable support apparatus 710 according to at least one embodiment. The sensor cable support apparatus 710 includes a pair of conductive openings 712a, 712b. Within the conductive openings 712a, 712b are a pair of pucks 722a, 722b. In the embodiment illustrated by FIG. 7, the pucks 722 are installed from the bottom surface of the sensor cable support apparatus 710. Thus, the slits 724a, 724b are visible in the view presented in FIG. The sensor cable support apparatus 710 also includes alignment grooves 726a, 726b. The alignment grooves 726 can be used to align the pucks 722 into the conductive openings 712 during installation. In some embodiments, the alignment grooves 726 help hold the pucks 722 after installation. The sensor cable support apparatus 710 also includes electrical traces 716a, 716b that are connected to the conductive openings 712a, 712b, respectively. The sensor cable support arrangement 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 similar function as the electrical protection structure 718.

[0056] 8 and 9 illustrate top and top perspective views, respectively, of a sensor cable support apparatus 810 according to various embodiments. The sensor cable support apparatus 810 includes a pair of conductive openings 812a, 812b. The conductive opening 812, including a portion thereof coated with a conductive material, is 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 apparatus 810 also includes alignment grooves 826a, 826b. The alignment grooves 826 can be used to align the puck into the conductive opening 812 during installation. In some embodiments, the alignment grooves 826 help retain the puck after installation. The sensor cable support apparatus 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 traces 820 also extend into the electrical protection structure 818 and down all four legs and / or down two legs of the sensor cable support arrangement 810 .

[0057] 10 illustrates a partial exploded view of a monitoring device 1000 including an integrated sensor cable support arrangement 1010 that is part of a biosensor 1002, according to at least one embodiment. The monitoring device 1000 is one embodiment of the monitoring device 100 described herein. Accordingly, 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 supply 116. The sensor cable support arrangement of the monitoring device 1000 is integrated into the PCB 118. Specifically, the sensor cable support arrangement 1010 is printed in the same manner (e.g., using the same manufacturing techniques) as the PCB 118. Thus, the integrated sensor cable support arrangement 1010 is integrated in the sense that it is integrated into the PCB 118.

[0058] The integrated sensor cable support arrangement 1010 includes a pair of conductive openings 1012a, 1012b sized and configured to receive the pucks 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 arrangement 1010 is effectively mounted directly to the PCB 118, the conductive openings 1012 may be a cavity in which the puck 122 may be placed. As with other embodiments described herein, the puck 122 may function to electrically and mechanically connect the sensor cable 112 to the sensor cable support arrangement 1010.

[0059] Further examples 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 puck, the rigid body configured to support a proximal end of the sensor cable and to electrically couple the sensor cable to a sensing circuit of a monitoring device; a pair 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 and 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 and a distal end of a second leg of the set of legs is provided.

[0061] Example 2. This example provides an apparatus as in any preceding or subsequent example, wherein a groove is formed in a bottom side of the rigid body or in a top side of the rigid body opposite the bottom side, the groove being sized and configured to accommodate a sensor cable.

[0062] Example 3. In this example, the grooves are a first region disposed adjacent the first opening, the first region having a first cross-sectional area and sized to accommodate a first portion of a sensor cable including a first wire; Provide an apparatus as in any preceding or following example, further comprising: 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 cable including a second wire, wherein the first cross-sectional area is different from the second cross-sectional area.

[0063] Example 4. In this example, there is provided an apparatus as in any preceding or following example, further comprising an electrical protection structure disposed between the pair of openings.

[0064] Example 5. This example provides an apparatus as in any preceding or subsequent example, wherein the electrical protection structure includes a third electrical trace that extends to a distal end of a third leg of the set of legs.

[0065] Example 6. In this example, there is provided an apparatus as described in any preceding or subsequent example, wherein the electrical protective structure comprises a protective opening formed within and extending through the rigid body.

[0066] Example 7. In this example, there is provided a device as described in any preceding or subsequent example, wherein a pair of rigid legs are integral with the rigid body.

[0067] Example 8. In this example, there is provided an apparatus as described in any preceding or subsequent example, wherein a pair of openings extend through the rigid body.

[0068] Example 9. In this example, there is provided an apparatus as described in any preceding or subsequent example, wherein the rigid body includes a conductive plating within a pair of openings.

[0069] Example 10. In this example, there is provided a device as described in any preceding or subsequent example, wherein the first opening is electrically isolated from the second opening.

[0070] Example 11. In this example, the rigid body and the pair of legs are formed from a first material using an injection molding technique; The apparatus of any preceding or following embodiment is provided, wherein the first and second electrical traces are formed using a laser direct structuring technique, and the first and second electrical traces comprise a second material.

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

[0072] Example 13. In this example, there is provided a device as described in any preceding or subsequent example, wherein the pair of pucks are formed from a conductive material.

[0073] Example 14. This example provides a device as described in any preceding or subsequent example, wherein a pair of pucks, when placed in a pair of conductive openings, engage in a first electrical connection and a second electrical connection.

[0074] Example 15. This example provides the apparatus of any preceding or subsequent example, wherein each pack of the pair of packs defines a slit, and when the first pack is placed in the first conductive opening, a first portion of the sensor cable is retained within the first slit of the first pack, and when the second pack is placed in the second conductive opening, a second portion of the sensor cable is retained within the second slit of the second pack.

[0075] Example 16. In this example, there is provided a device as in any preceding or subsequent example, wherein the sensor cable includes a distal end that extends beyond the outer housing surface.

[0076] Example 17. This example provides the device of any preceding or subsequent example, wherein a first portion of the sensor cable extends across the first conductive opening and is in physical contact with the first conductive opening at two or more locations.

[0077] Example 18. This example provides the apparatus of any preceding or subsequent example, wherein the sensor cable includes a first portion corresponding to the second portion, and a first electrode corresponding to the second electrode.

[0078] Example 19. This example provides the device of any preceding or subsequent example, wherein the sensor holder system further includes an electrical protection structure disposed between the pair of openings, the electrical protection structure including at least one of an electrical trace or an opening formed in the body.

[0079] Example 20. This example provides a device as in any preceding or subsequent example, wherein the pair of conductive openings are electrically coupled to the printed circuit board via a pair of electrical traces extending between distal ends of the pair of legs of the set of legs and the pair of conductive openings.

[0080] Example 21. This example provides the device of any preceding or subsequent example, wherein the sensing circuit is configured to detect biometric information about the person via a pair of electrodes of a sensor cable inserted into the skin of the person.

[0081] Example 22. In this example, there is provided an apparatus as in any preceding or subsequent example, wherein the housing includes a top enclosure and a bottom enclosure, and the exterior surface is defined in the bottom enclosure.

[0082] Example 23. This example provides an apparatus as in any preceding or following example, wherein the top enclosure is in physical contact with an outwardly facing side of the pair of pucks and the bottom enclosure is in physical contact with a bottom side of the circuit board.

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

[0084] Example 25. This example provides a system as in any preceding or following example, wherein the alignment means defines at least one of a groove or a pair of opposing tabs.

[0085] Example 26. In this example, there is provided a system as in any preceding or subsequent example, wherein the retaining means includes a pair of conductive pucks configured to physically couple with the supporting means.

[0086] Example 27. In this example, there is provided a system as in any preceding or subsequent example, wherein the support means includes a rigid body connected to a pair of rigid legs extending between the rigid body and the printed circuit board.

[0087] Example 28. This example provides a system as described in any preceding or subsequent example, wherein the coupling means includes one or more electrical traces disposed on the support means.

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

[0089] Example 30. In this example, A sensor cable support device, comprising: a body having a pair of conductive openings; a pair of legs extending away from a bottom side of the body; a pair of electrical traces extending between a pair of conductive openings and distal ends of the pair of legs of the set of legs; A sensor cable, a first portion in electrical contact with a first of the pair of conductive openings to form a first electrical connection; a second portion in electrical contact with a second of the pair of conductive openings to form a second electrical connection; and and a pair of packs disposed in the pair of openings such that a first pack of the pair mechanically holds a first portion in electrical contact with the first conductive opening and a second pack of the pair mechanically holds a second portion in electrical contact with the second opening.

[0090] Example 31. This example provides a system as described in any preceding or following example, wherein a set of legs is adapted for mounting to a printed circuit board.

[0091] Example 32. This example provides a system as in any preceding or subsequent example, wherein a first portion of the 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 greater than the first cross-sectional area.

[0092] Example 33. This example provides a system as in any preceding or following example, wherein a pair of grooves is formed on a top side of the body, 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.

[0093] Example 34. This example provides a system as described in any preceding or subsequent example, where the sensor holder device is integrated into a printed circuit board, such that the sensor holder device and the printed circuit board are formed using printed circuit board manufacturing techniques.

[0094] The foregoing description of several examples has been presented only for purposes of illustration and description, and is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosure to the precise form disclosed. Numerous modifications and adaptations thereof will be apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure.

[0095] Reference to an example or implementation herein means that a particular feature, structure, operation, or other characteristic described in connection with the example may be included in at least one implementation of the disclosure. The disclosure is not limited to the particular example or implementation so described. The appearance of the phrases "in one example," "in an example," "in one implementation," "in an implementation," or variations thereof in various places in this specification do not necessarily refer to the same example or implementation. Any particular feature, structure, operation, or other characteristic described herein with respect to one example or implementation may be combined with other features, structures, operations, or other characteristics described with respect to any other example or implementation.

[0096] The use of the terms "a" and "an" and "the" and similar referents in the context of describing the disclosed examples (particularly in the context of the claims below) should 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" should be construed as open-ended terms (i.e., meaning "including, but not limited to"), unless otherwise noted. The term "connected" should be construed as partially or entirely contained, attached, or joined to one another, even if there is something intervening. The recitation of ranges of values ​​herein is intended merely to serve as a shorthand method of individually referring to each value falling within the range, unless otherwise indicated herein, 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 otherwise clearly contradicted by context. Any and all examples or exemplary language (e.g., "such as") provided herein are intended merely to further clarify examples of the disclosure and do not limit the scope of the disclosure, unless otherwise claimed. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element as essential to the practice of the disclosure.

[0097] The use of the word "or" herein is intended to cover an inclusive and exclusive OR condition. In other words, A or B or C includes any or all of the following alternative combinations, depending on the particular usage: A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B only, A and C only, B and C only, and A and B and C. [Explanation of symbols]

[0098] 100 Monitoring equipment 102 Biosensors 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 Main unit 304 Legs 312 Conductive opening 314 Conductive Surface 316 Electrical Trace 322 Groove

Claims

1. 1. An analyte monitoring system, comprising: a sensor cable including a first portion insertable into the skin of a person, the first portion including a means for generating glucose information; a sensor holder system, the sensor holder system comprising: an alignment means for physically aligning a second portion of the sensor cable; a retaining means for physically retaining the second portion of the sensor cable; a support means for physically supporting said alignment means and said holding means; coupling means for electrically coupling the second portion of the sensor cable to a circuit disposed on a printed circuit board for determining an analyte level of the person; An analyte monitoring system, wherein the support means comprises a rigid body connected to a pair of rigid legs extending between the rigid body and the printed circuit board.

2. The analyte monitoring system of claim 1 , wherein the alignment means defines at least one of a groove or a pair of opposing tabs.

3. The analyte monitoring system of claim 1 or 2, wherein the retaining means comprises a pair of conductive pucks configured to physically couple with the supporting means.

4. The analyte monitoring system of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the coupling means comprises one or more electrical traces disposed on the support means.

5. 5. The analyte monitoring system of claim 1, wherein the means for generating the glucose information comprises one or more electrodes configured to generate an electrical signal corresponding to an amount of glucose present in interstitial fluid beneath the skin of the person.

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