Chestpiece for stethoscope, method and use

Abstract

The invention relates to a chestpiece (10) and to method for providing antimicrobial properties to a chestpiece (10) of an electronic stethoscope. The chestpiece (10) comprises a body (12) having an outer surface (14, 16, 18), an audio chamber (20) inside the body (12), a first microphone (32) provided inside the body (12) in connection with the sound chamber (20), a processing unit (40) provided inside the body (12) and configured to receive the auscultated sound signal from the first microphone (32), and a wireless communication module (42) provided inside the body (12) and configured to transmit the auscultated sound signal from the chestpiece (10) to an external receiver. At least part of the outer surface (14, 16, 18) of the body (12) is provided with an antimicrobial coating (430).

Description

[0001] CHESTPIECE FOR STETHOSCOPE, METHOD AND USE

[0002] FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0003] The present invention relates to a chestpiece for an electronic stethoscope and more particularly to a chestpiece according to preamble of claim 1. The present invention relates to a method for providing antimicrobial properties to a chestpiece of an electronic stethoscope and more particularly to a method according to preamble of claim 17. Use of an antimicrobial coating according to claim 29.

[0004] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0005] Many of the surfaces used in hospitals can be carriers of bacteria and viruses. Further, patients and also hospital personnel may carry bacteria and viruses. Some of the bacteria and viruses can be harmful to health. Stethoscopes are carried along by doctors and utilized for several patients during a day. Therefore, stethoscopes may transport bacteria and viruses which can cause harm to health. In the prior art this is solved with disposable and removable stethoscope covers which are placed on a stethoscope. Covers help prevent the spread of infectious agents from patient to patient.

[0006] The disposable covers arranged on the outer surface of the diaphragm have negative effect on the acoustic properties of the diaphragm deteriorating the sound quality of the stethoscope.

[0007] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0008] An object of the present invention is to provide to provide a chestpiece for an electronic stethoscope, a method and use such that the disadvantages of the prior art are solved or at least alleviated.

[0009] The objects of the invention are achieved by a chestpiece for an electronic stethoscope which is characterized by what is stated in the independent claim 1. The objects of the invention are also achieved by a method for providing antimicrobial properties to a chestpiece of an electronic stethoscope, the method being characterized by what is stated in the independent claim 17. The objects of the invention are further achieved by a use which is characterized by what is stated in the independent claim 29.

[0010] The preferred embodiments of the invention are disclosed in the dependent claims.

[0011] The invention is based on the idea of providing a chestpiece for an electronic stethoscope. The chestpiece comprises a body having an outer surface, an audio chamber inside the body for detecting auscultated sound from a patient body, a first microphone provided inside the body in connection with the sound chamber for converting the auscultated sound into an auscultated sound signal, a processing unit provided inside the body and configured to receive the auscultated sound signal from the first microphone, and a wireless communication module provided inside the body and configured to transmit the auscultated sound signal from the chestpiece to an external receiver. According to the present invention at least part of the outer surface of the body is provided with antimicrobial material.

[0012] The antimicrobial material provided to the outer surface of the body of the chestpiece provides a long-lasting antimicrobial properties to the chestpiece. The antimicrobial coating is configured to eliminate or reduce pathogenic microorganisms, such as bacteria and viruses, on the outer surface chestpiece for long periods of time and repeatedly. Accordingly, the chestpiece itself is provided as antimicrobial.

[0013] In the present invention the antimicrobial material is provided directly to the outer surface of the body or directly to the material of the body. Thus, no separate replaceable covers or cover which need to be separately installed to the stethoscope are needed.

[0014] In some embodiments, the antimicrobial material is adhered to the at least part of the outer surface of the body.

[0015] In some embodiments, the antimicrobial material is provided as an antimicrobial coating on the at least part of the outer surface of the body. Coating means coating layer which is provided directly to the outer surface and adhered to the outer surface.

[0016] In some embodiments, the antimicrobial material is embedded into the at least part of the outer surface of the body. In some embodiments, the antimicrobial material is embedded into the material of the body. Accordingly, the material of the body of the stethoscope comprises antimicrobial material.

[0017] In some embodiments, the body of the chestpiece comprises an outer front surface arranged to be placed against the patient body, the audio chamber is provided in connection with the outer surface for detecting the auscultated sound from the patient body via the outer front surface, and the outer front surface is provided with the antimicrobial material. Accordingly, transfer of pathogenic organisms via the front surface is reduced or prevented.

[0018] In some embodiments, the body of the chestpiece comprises the outer front surface provided with a diaphragm arranged to form a front chamber wall of the audio chamber, the diaphragm is provided with the antimicrobial material.

[0019] Accordingly, transfer of pathogenic organisms via the diaphragm is reduced or prevented.

[0020] In some embodiments, the body of the chestpiece is arranged to define a closed chestpiece space inside the body, and the outer surface of the body is provided with the antimicrobial material.

[0021] In some other embodiments, the body of the chestpiece comprises the outer front surface, the outer top surface and the outer side surfaces extending between the outer front surface and the outer top surface, the body of the chestpiece is arranged to define a closed chestpiece space inside the body and the outer front surface, the outer top surface and the outer side surfaces are provided with the antimicrobial material.

[0022] The closed chestpiece space inside the body enables providing the antimicrobial material on the outer surface of the chestpiece by utilising an antimicrobial coating composition without subjecting electrical components of the chestpiece to the antimicrobial coating composition.

[0023] Further, the closed chestpiece space inside the body enables encapsulating the chestpiece with an antimicrobial coating provided with the antimicrobial material or the antimicrobial coating composition such that the entire chestpiece and outer surfaces thereof become antimicrobial.

[0024] In some embodiments, the outer surface of the body is formed as an uninterrupted surface.

[0025] In some other embodiments, the body of the chestpiece comprises the outer front surface, the outer top surface and the outer side surfaces extending between the outer front surface and the outer top surface, and the outer front surface, the outer top surface and the outer side surfaces are arranged to form together an uninterrupted outer surface of the chestpiece.

[0026] The uninterrupted outer surface means that the outer surface forms a continuous surface. Accordingly, the outer surfaces of the chestpiece are provided unbroken without any openings or holes into the chestpiece space inside the body.

[0027] The uninterrupted surface(s) prevent pathogenic organisms from entering inside the chestpiece, Further, the uninterrupted outer surface enables depositing the antimicrobial coating over the entire outer surface without breaks.

[0028] The closed chestpiece space and the uninterrupted outer surface enable providing an uninterrupted antimicrobial coating with the antimicrobial material or the antimicrobial coating composition on the outer surface of the body of the chestpiece without subjecting the components inside closed chestpiece space to the antimicrobial material or the antimicrobial coating composition.

[0029] Accordingly, the antimicrobial coating is provided as an uninterrupted antimicrobial coating on the outer surface of the body of the chestpiece.

[0030] In some embodiments, the chestpiece comprises one or more operating buttons, and that the one or more operating buttons being provided as internal operating buttons on inner side of the outer surface.

[0031] In some other embodiments, the chestpiece comprises one or more operating buttons, and that the one or more operating buttons being provided as internal operating buttons on inner side of the outer top surface, or on inner side of the outer side surface, or on inner side of the outer top surface and the outer side surface.

[0032] The internal operating buttons enable providing functionality to the chestpiece and forming the uninterrupted outer surface at the same time.

[0033] In some embodiments, the antimicrobial material or the antimicrobial coating is provided directly to the outer surface of the body of the chestpiece or on the outer surface of the body of the chestpiece.

[0034] Accordingly, the antimicrobial coating has a minimal effect on the operation of the chestpiece and the diaphragm.

[0035] The thickness of the antimicrobial coating is preferably as low as possible. In some embodiments, the thickness of the antimicrobial coating is less than 0,05 mm, preferably less than 0,01 mm.

[0036] In the embodiments in which the antimicrobial material is embedded into the body of the chestpiece or the material of the body of the chestpiece, the coating may be eliminated and the chestpiece or the body thereof is provided with antimicrobial properties.

[0037] In some embodiments, the antimicrobial material or the antimicrobial coating comprises nanoparticles distributed across the antimicrobial material or antimicrobial coating.

[0038] In some embodiments, the antimicrobial material or the antimicrobial coating comprises nanoparticles distributed across the antimicrobial material or antimicrobial coating, the nanoparticles comprising one or more substances having antimicrobial properties for providing antimicrobial properties to the antimicrobial coating.

[0039] In some other embodiments, the antimicrobial coating comprises nanoparticles distributed across the antimicrobial coating.

[0040] In some further embodiments, the antimicrobial coating comprises nanoparticles distributed across the antimicrobial coating, the nanoparticles comprising one or more substances having antimicrobial properties for providing antimicrobial properties to the antimicrobial coating.

[0041] In some yet other embodiments, the antimicrobial material comprises nanoparticles distributed across the at least part of the outer surface of the body or across the body.

[0042] In some further embodiments, the antimicrobial material comprises nanoparticles distributed across the at least part of the outer surface of the body or across the body, the nanoparticles comprising one or substances having antimicrobial properties for providing antimicrobial properties to the antimicrobial coating. The nanoparticles provide high surface area to volume ratio enhancing the properties of the antimicrobial coating significantly.

[0043] The nanoparticles enable providing nanostructure to the antimicrobial coating or to the at least part of the outer surface of the body or to the body. The nanostructure is configured to create antimicrobial properties for the outer surface of the chestpiece.

[0044] In some embodiments, the nanoparticles are provided as antimicrobial nanoparticles.

[0045] Accordingly, the antimicrobial nanoparticles and made of or comprise antimicrobial substance or material such that the antimicrobial properties of the nanoparticles provide antimicrobial properties to the antimicrobial coating.

[0046] In some embodiments, the nanoparticles comprise one or more of the following: metal oxide nanoparticles, metal nanoparticles, metal hydroxide nanoparticles or quantum dots.

[0047] Accordingly, in some embodiments the antimicrobial coating comprises metal-associated nanoparticles.

[0048] The metal oxide nanoparticles, metal nanoparticles, metal hydroxide nanoparticles or quantum dots are configured to possess antimicrobial properties and / or made of or comprise antimicrobial material.

[0049] In some embodiments, the antimicrobial coating comprises metal- associated cerium oxide nanoparticles (mCNP). The metal-associated cerium oxide nanoparticles provide selfregenerating antimicrobial properties since the nanoparticles are not used up in the disinfection process. According, long lasting antimicrobial coating is provided.

[0050] The term “metal-associated cerium oxide nanoparticles”, or “mCNPs”, refers to cerium oxide nanoparticles doped with or otherwise bound to a metal.

[0051] In some other embodiments, the antimicrobial coating comprises metal-associated colloidal lignin particles (CLPs).

[0052] The metal-associated colloidal lignin particles are capable of retaining antibacterial activity and properties for long periods of time.

[0053] The term “metal-associated colloidal lignin particles”, or “mCNPs” refers to colloidal lignin particles doped with or otherwise bound to a metal.

[0054] In some embodiments, the metal of the metal-associated cerium oxide nanoparticles (mCNP) is silver.

[0055] Silver is preferable material as it further provides generation of free radicals enhancing the rate of eliminating pathogenic organisms.

[0056] In some other embodiments, the metal of the metal-associated colloidal lignin particles (CLPs) is silver.

[0057] Silver is preferable material as it further provides generation of free radicals enhancing the rate of eliminating pathogenic organisms.

[0058] In some embodiments, the metal of the nanoparticles comprises one or more of the following: silver, gold, ruthenium, vanadanium, copper, nickel, platinum, titanium, tin, iron, zinc, cobolt, zirconium, magnesium and molybdenum. The mentioned group of metals provide effective antimicrobial properties to the antimicrobial coating.

[0059] In some embodiments, the mean particle size of the nanoparticles is less than 400 nm, or the mean particle size is less than 100 nm or the mean particle size of the nanoparticles is less than 50 nm, or the mean particle size of the nanoparticles is less than 25 nm, or the mean particle size of the nanoparticles is less than 10 nm.

[0060] Smaller particles sizes provide higher surface are to volume ratio enabling decreased coating thickness to be utilized and more efficient antibacterial properties.

[0061] The present invention further based on an idea of providing, a method for providing antimicrobial properties to a chestpiece of an electronic stethoscope. The chestpiece comprises a body having an outer surface, an audio chamber inside the body for detecting auscultated sound from a patient body, a first microphone provided inside the body in connection with the sound chamber for converting the auscultated sound into an auscultated sound signal, a processing unit provided inside the body and configured to receive the auscultated sound signal from the first microphone, and a wireless communication module provided inside the body and configured to transmit the auscultated sound signal from the chestpiece to an external receiver. According to the present invention the method comprises providing an antimicrobial material to at least part of the outer surface of the body.

[0062] Providing the antimicrobial material to the outer surface of the body of the chestpiece provides long-lasting antimicrobial properties to the chestpiece. The antimicrobial material is configured to eliminate or reduce pathogenic microorganisms, such as bacteria and viruses, on the outer surface chestpiece for long periods of time and repeatedly. Accordingly, the chestpiece itself is provided as antimicrobial.

[0063] In some embodiments providing the antimicrobial material to the at least part of the outer surface of the body comprises adhering the antimicrobial material to the at least part of the outer surface of the body.

[0064] Adhering the antimicrobial material to the body or to the surface of the body enables providing long lasting antimicrobial properties to the chestpiece.

[0065] In some embodiments providing the antimicrobial material to the at least part of the outer surface of the body comprises providing the body with embedded antimicrobial material. The antimicrobial material embedded into the outer surface of the body or to the body is configured to provide the body or the outer surface thereof with integral antimicrobial properties.

[0066] The antimicrobial material is provided to the body of the chestpiece or to the material of the body such that the body is provided with antimicrobial properties.

[0067] In some embodiments, the method comprises coating the at least part of the outer surface of the body with antimicrobial material or antimicrobial coating composition such that an antimicrobial coating is formed on the at least part of the outer surface of the body.

[0068] In some embodiments, the method comprises applying an antimicrobial material or antimicrobial coating composition on the outer surface of the body of the chestpiece for forming the antimicrobial coating.

[0069] In some other embodiments, the body of the chestpiece is arranged to define a closed chestpiece space inside the body and the outer front surface, and the method comprises applying an antimicrobial material or antimicrobial coating composition on all outer surfaces of the body of the chestpiece for encapsulating the chestpiece with the antimicrobial coating.

[0070] The closed chestpiece space enables providing the antimicrobial coating applying a liquid coating solution or colloidal coating solution having antimicrobial properties directly on the outer surface of the chestpiece without subjecting the electrical components indie the closed chestpiece space to the coating solution.

[0071] In some further embodiments, the body of the chestpiece comprises the outer front surface provided with a diaphragm arranged to form a front chamber wall of the audio chamber, and the method comprises applying an antimicrobial material or antimicrobial coating composition on the diaphragm for forming the antimicrobial coating.

[0072] Antimicrobial diaphragm prevents pathogenic organism transferring from a patient to another patient.

[0073] In some yet further embodiments, the body of the chestpiece comprises the outer front surface, the outer top surface and the outer side surfaces extending between the outer front surface and the outer top surface, the body of the chestpiece is arranged to define a closed chestpiece space inside the body and the outer front surface, the method comprises applying antimicrobial material or antimicrobial coating composition on the outer top surface, the outer side surfaces and to the outer front surface for forming the antimicrobial coating.

[0074] The closed chestpiece space enables providing the antimicrobial coating applying a liquid coating solution or colloidal coating solution having antimicrobial properties directly on the outer surface of the chestpiece without subjecting the electrical components indie the closed chestpiece space to the coating solution. Further providing the antimicrobial coating on all surfaces provides a chestpiece encapsulated with the antimicrobial coating.

[0075] In some embodiments, the antimicrobial material or antimicrobial coating composition comprises nanoparticles, the method comprises applying the antimicrobial coating composition on the outer surface of the body for forming the antimicrobial coating comprising nanoparticles distributed across the outer surface of the body.

[0076] In some other embodiments, the method comprises providing to at least part of the outer surface of the body with antimicrobial material comprising nanoparticles distributed across the outer surface of the body.

[0077] In some further embodiments, the antimicrobial material comprises nanoparticles, the method comprises providing the at least part of the outer surface of the body with the antimicrobial coating comprising the nanoparticles distributed across the outer surface of the body.

[0078] In some yet further embodiments, the antimicrobial material comprises nanoparticles, the method comprises applying the antimicrobial coating composition on the outer surface of the body for forming the antimicrobial coating comprising nanoparticles distributed across the outer surface of the body.

[0079] The nanoparticles provide high surface area to volume ratio enhancing the properties of the antimicrobial coating significantly.

[0080] The nanoparticles enable providing nanostructure to the antimicrobial coating. The nanostructure is configured to create antimicrobial properties for the outer surface of the chestpiece.

[0081] In some embodiments, the nanoparticles are provided as antimicrobial nanoparticles.

[0082] Accordingly, the antimicrobial nanoparticles and made of or comprise antimicrobial material such that the antimicrobial properties of the nanoparticles provide antimicrobial properties to the antimicrobial coating.

[0083] In some embodiments, the nanoparticles comprise one or more of the following: metal oxide nanoparticles, metal nanoparticles, metal hydroxide nanoparticles or quantum dots.

[0084] Accordingly, in some embodiments the antimicrobial coating comprises metal-associated nanoparticles.

[0085] The metal oxide nanoparticles, metal nanoparticles, metal hydroxide nanoparticles or quantum dots are configured to possess antimicrobial properties and / or made of or comprise antimicrobial material.

[0086] In some embodiments, the antimicrobial coating comprises metal- associated cerium oxide nanoparticles (mCNP).

[0087] The metal-associated cerium oxide nanoparticles provide selfregenerating antimicrobial properties since the nanoparticles are not used up in the disinfection process. According, long lasting antimicrobial coating is provided.

[0088] The term “metal-associated cerium oxide nanoparticles”, or “mCNPs”, refers to cerium oxide nanoparticles doped with or otherwise bound to a metal.

[0089] In some other embodiments, the antimicrobial coating comprises metal-associated colloidal lignin particles (CLPs).

[0090] The metal-associated colloidal lignin particles are capable of retaining antibacterial activity and properties for long periods of time. The term “metal-associated colloidal lignin particles”, or “mCNPs” refers to colloidal lignin particles doped with or otherwise bound to a metal.

[0091] In some embodiments, the metal of the metal-associated cerium oxide nanoparticles (mCNP) is silver.

[0092] Silver is preferable material as it further provides generation of free radicals enhancing the rate of eliminating pathogenic organisms.

[0093] In some other embodiments, the metal of the metal-associated colloidal lignin particles (CLPs) is silver.

[0094] Silver is preferable material as it further provides generation of free radicals enhancing the rate of eliminating pathogenic organisms.

[0095] In some embodiments, the metal of the nanoparticles of the antimicrobial material or antimicrobial coating composition comprises one or more of the following: silver, gold, ruthenium, vanadanium, copper, titanium, nickel, platinum, titanium, tin, iron, zinc, cobolt, zirconium, magnesium and molybdenum.

[0096] The antimicrobial coating solution is configured to form the antimicrobial coating or the antimicrobial material for the chestpiece.

[0097] The mentioned metals provide effective antimicrobial properties to the antimicrobial coating.

[0098] In some embodiments, the antimicrobial coating composition is formed as a dispensable solution.

[0099] In some other embodiments, the antimicrobial coating composition is formed as a colloidal solution comprising an excipient and the nanoparticles.

[0100] The dispensable solution or colloidal solution may be dispensed on the outer surface of the body of the chestpiece easily and further the coating may be renewed easily when needed without modifications to the chestpiece.

[0101] In some embodiments, the method comprises spraying the antimicrobial coating composition on the outer surface of the body of the chestpiece.

[0102] Spraying provides efficient and fast method for applying the antimicrobial composition on the outer surface of the body of the chestpiece.

[0103] In some other embodiments, the method comprises spreading the antimicrobial coating composition on the outer surface of the body of the chestpiece.

[0104] Spreading, for example with a cloth, provides efficient and secure method for applying the antimicrobial composition on the outer surface of the body of the chestpiece.

[0105] In some further embodiments, the method comprises dipcoating the outer surface of the body of the chestpiece with the antimicrobial coating composition.

[0106] Dipcoating is efficient in providing the antimicrobial coating on all outer surfaces of the body of the chestpiece.

[0107] In some embodiments of the method, the chestpiece is a chestpiece according to above disclosed.

[0108] The present invention is further based on an idea of use of an antimicrobial material or antimicrobial coating provided directly to at least part of an outer surface of a chestpiece of an electronic stethoscope. The chestpiece comprises a body having an outer surface, an audio chamber inside the body for detecting auscultated sound from a patient body, a first microphone provided inside the body in connection with the sound chamber for converting the auscultated sound into an auscultated sound signal, a processing unit provided inside the body and configured to receive the auscultated sound signal from the first microphone, and a wireless communication module provided inside the body and configured to transmit the auscultated sound signal from the chestpiece to an external receiver.

[0109] The antimicrobial coating provided directly on the outer surface of the body of the chestpiece enables forming antimicrobial properties to the chestpiece without deteriorating the functional properties of the chestpiece.

[0110] In some embodiments of the use, the chestpiece is a chestpiece according to above disclosed.

[0111] An advantage of the invention is that antimicrobial material or antimicrobial coating provided to the outer surface of the body of the chestpiece enable long lasting and efficient antimicrobial properties. The antimicrobial material or antimicrobial coating further enables transfer of preventing pathogenic organisms via the chestpiece from surfaces and humans to other humans.

[0112] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0113] The invention is described in detail by means of specific embodiments with reference to the enclosed drawings, in which

[0114] Figures 1 to 3 shows schematic views of a chestpiece of an electronic stethoscope;

[0115] Figure 4 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of the chestpiece of figure 1;

[0116] Figures 5 and 6 show further schematic views of the chestpiece according to the present invention;

[0117] Figures 7 to 9 show schematic views of a chestpiece according to the present invention;

[0118] Figures 10 schematically one embodiment of a method according to the present invention;

[0119] Figure 11 schematically shows a chestpiece provided with an antimicrobial coating; and

[0120] Figure 12 schematically shows a strap for holding a chestpiece according to the present invention.

[0121] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0122] Figure 1 shows schematically a side view of one embodiment of a chestpiece 10 for an electronic stethoscope. The chestpiece 10 is configured to provide auscultated sounds of a patient body, for example heart, lungs, bowel, arteries and veins.

[0123] The chestpiece 10 comprises a body 12. The body comprises an outer top surface 16, an outer front surface 14 and outer side surface(s) 18 extending between the outer top surface 16 and the outer front surface 14. The outer front surface 14 is configured to be placed against a patient body or skin during health examination.

[0124] The outer front surface 14 is provided with a diaphragm 15 forming at least part of the outer front surface 14 of the body 12.

[0125] Figure 2 shows a schematic cross-sectional side view of the chestpiece 10 of figure 1. The outer top surface 16, the outer front surface 14 and outer side surface(s) 18 define inner chestpiece space 11 inside chestpiece 10.

[0126] The chestpiece 10 comprises an audio chamber 20 inside the body 12. The audio chamber 20 is defined by audio chamber surfaces 22 and the diaphragm 15. The diaphragm 15 is arranged to separate the audio chamber 20 from the outside of the chestpiece 10 at the outer front surface 14. Thus, the audio chamber 20 is provided in connection with the outer front surface 14. The diaphragm 15 forms at least part of the outer front surface 14 of the chestpiece 10.

[0127] In the figure 2 the diaphragm 15 is not shown. In some embodiments the diaphragm may be omitted and the audio chamber 20 is open to the outer front surface 14 of the chestpiece 10. Thus, the outer front surface 14 comprises a chamber opening 26. Figure 3 shows a schematic bottom view of the chestpiece 10.

[0128] The audio chamber 20 comprises the chamber walls 22 and the top end 24. The top end 24 is provided with the sound opening.

[0129] The audio chamber 20 has bell-shaped form defined by the audio chamber surfaces 22, as shown schematically in figure 2. The diaphragm 15 or the outer front surface 14 is arranged to provide a bottom of the bell-shaped form. The end 24 of the bell-shaped audio chamber 20 is provided opposite the diaphragm 15. The bell-shaped form of the audio chamber 20 provides mechanical amplification of sound, sound waves or pressure waves generated with the diaphragm 15.

[0130] It should be noted that the audio chamber 20 may also have a different shape. The audio chamber 20 may for example have a tapering or converging shape towards the top end 24 of the audio chamber 20. The top end 24 is arranged opposite the diaphragm 15.

[0131] The shape of the audio chamber 20 is arranged to provide amplification of the auscultated sounds towards the top end 24 of the audio chamber 20.

[0132] The chestpiece 10 has a circular cylinder shape as shown in figures 1 to 4. In figure 4 the electric components of the chestpiece 10 are shown.

[0133] In the figure 3 the diaphragm 15 is not shown. In some embodiments the diaphragm 15 may be omitted and the audio chamber 20 is open to the outer front surface 14 of the chestpiece 10. Thus, the outer front surface 14 comprises a chamber opening 26.

[0134] In some embodiments, the bell-shaped audio chamber 20 is without the diaphragm 15.

[0135] It should be noted, that the chestpiece 10 may also have a different three-dimensional shape, such as oval cylindrical shape, or rectangular or polygonal cylindrical shape.

[0136] Figure 4 shows schematically a cross-sectional view of the chestpiece 10 and a schematic configuration of an electronic stethoscope utilizing the chestpiece 10.

[0137] The diaphragm 15 has a planar shape.

[0138] The diaphragm 15 extends parallel to the outer front surface 14.

[0139] When the outer front surface 14 is placed against patient skin, the diaphragm 15 is also placed against the patient skin. The diaphragm 15 is provided as a flexible diaphragm. Flexibility of the diaphragm 15 enables the diaphragm 15 to move or vibrate as a response to body sounds of the patient when the outer front surface 14 and the diaphragm 15 is placed against the patient skin. The movement or vibration of the diaphragm 15 generates acoustic pressure waves into the audio chamber 20.

[0140] The chestpiece 10 comprises a first microphone 30 arranged in connection with the audio chamber 20. The first microphone 30 is configured to capture auscultated sounds or the pressure waves provided by the diaphragm 15 and the audio chamber 20, and further convert the auscultated sounds into an auscultated sound signal.

[0141] The auscultated sound signal generated by the first microphone 30 is an electronic auscultated sound signal.

[0142] The first microphone 30 is arranged in connection with the audio chamber 20 such that the first microphone 30 is arranged to capture the auscultated sounds from the audio chamber 20.

[0143] The first microphone 30 is arranged in connection with the audio chamber 20 or inside the audio chamber 20. Alternatively, the first microphone 30 is arranged to the audio chamber walls 22.

[0144] In the embodiment of figure 4, the first microphone 30 is arranged in connection with the top end 24 of the audio chamber 20.

[0145] The first microphone 30 is arranged to the top end 24 of the audio chamber 20.

[0146] In the embodiment of figure 4, the top end 24 of the audio chamber 20 comprises sound opening and the first microphone 30 is arranged to or in connection with the sound opening of the top end 24.

[0147] In some other embodiments the first microphone 30 is arranged to form the top end 24 of the audio chamber 20.

[0148] The first microphone 30 may be any kind of microphone device.

[0149] The chestpiece 10 comprises also a second microphone 32. The second microphone 32 is provided as an ambient microphone. The second microphone 32 is arranged to capture or detect ambient sounds from the surroundings of the chestpiece 10. The second microphone 32 is arranged to generate an ambient sound signal or convert the ambient sounds into the ambient sound signal.

[0150] The second microphone 32 and the ambient sound signal is utilized for filtering the ambient sounds from the auscultated sound signal. Thus, ambient sounds or interference sounds do not disturb the diagnosis carried out based on the auscultated sounds. It should be noted that the second microphone 32 may also be omitted. The chestpiece 10 further comprises a processing unit 40.

[0151] The processing unit 40 comprises one or more processors, and one or more memory elements. A software program comprising instructions for operating the chestpiece 10 and the components thereof is stored to the one or more memory elements.

[0152] The processing unit 40 may comprise a read only memory (ROM) and / or a random access memory (RAM). A basic input output system (BIOS) is stored in the ROM. The RAM is used as a work area of the processing unit or as a temporary storage apparatus for loading a software program for operating the chestpiece 10 and the components thereof.

[0153] It should be noted that the above is only one embodiment and the processing unit 40 may be implemented in various ways without departing the present invention.

[0154] The processing unit 40 or software program stored therein may comprise instructions for processing the auscultated sound signal into auscultated sound data. The processing may comprise for example filtering and / or amplifying the auscultated sound signal and generating the auscultated sound data.

[0155] The processing unit 40 or software program stored therein is further configured to comprise instructions for operating the first microphone 30.

[0156] The processing unit 40 or software program stored therein is further configured to comprise instructions for operating the second microphone 32.

[0157] The chestpiece 10 further comprises a power unit 44. The power unit 40 comprises a battery. The battery is preferably a rechargeable battery.

[0158] The battery unit 44 further comprises a charging module arranged to charge the battery. The charging module is preferably provided as a wireless charging module arranged to charge the battery in wireless manner. The wireless charging module comprising a charging coil operatively connected to the battery.

[0159] The chestpiece 10 further comprises a communication module 42 configured carry out data transfer between the chestpiece 10 and an external device.

[0160] The communication module 42 is preferably a wireless communication module 42 configured to utilize a wireless communication protocol to carry out data transfer between the chestpiece 10 and the external device.

[0161] In some embodiments, the wireless communication module 42 comprises a short-range wireless communication module configured to utilize wireless short-range communication protocol to carry out the data transfer.

[0162] The wireless communication module 42 may be a Bluetooth communication module configured to utilize Bluetooth communication protocol for data transfer.

[0163] The wireless communication module 42 may also be a Wi-fi communication module configured to utilize Wi-Fi communication protocol for data transfer.

[0164] The first microphone 30 is connected or operatively connected to the processing unit 40. The processing unit 40 is configured to receive the auscultated sound signal from the first microphone 30.

[0165] The second microphone 32 is connected or operatively connected to the processing unit 40. The processing unit 40 is configured to receive the ambient sound signal from the second microphone 32.

[0166] The communication module 42 is connected or operatively connected to the processing unit 40. The communication module 42 is configured to transfer data from the chestpiece 10 or from the processing unit 40 to the external device.

[0167] The communication module 42 is further configured to receive data to the chestpiece 10 or to the processing unit 40 from the external device.

[0168] The power unit 44 is configured to provide power to the processing unit 40, the communication module 42 and to the first and second microphones 30, 32.

[0169] The power unit 44 may be connected to the processing unit 40, the communication module 42 and to the first and second microphones 30, 32.

[0170] The chestpiece further comprise a circuit board 50. The processing unit 40, communication module 42, power unit 44, and the first and second microphones 30, 32 are provided to or connected to the circuit board 50.

[0171] The chestpiece 10 is connected to the external device with the communication module 42 via a communication connection 100, as shown on figure 4.

[0172] The external device is a mobile user device 104 such as a mobile phone or a tablet. The external device may also be a computer 106 such as a laptop. The external device may also be an external audio device 102 such as headphones or a speaker.

[0173] The chestpiece 10 is directly connected to the external device 102, 104, 106 via the communication module 42 by utilizing the communication protocol. Accordingly, the chestpiece 10 and the communication module 42 thereof is configured to transfer the auscultated sound signal or the auscultated sound data to the external device 102, 104, 106.

[0174] Accordingly, the external device 102, 104, 106 also comprises a device communication module configured to receive the auscultated sound signal or the auscultated sound data from the chestpiece 10 via the communication connection 100.

[0175] In some embodiments, the external device is an external server comprising a server communication module configured to carry out data transfer with the chestpiece 10. In this embodiment, the mobile user device 104, the external audio device 102 or the computer 106 is arranged in data transfer connection with the external server. The mobile user device 104, the external audio device 102 or the computer 106 is arranged to receive the auscultated sound signal or the auscultated sound data from the external server.

[0176] In some embodiment, the external audio device 102 is connected with the mobile user device 104 or to the computer 106, and the mobile user device 104 or the computer is connected with the external audio device 102.

[0177] The mobile user device 104 or the computer 106 or the external audio device 102 is configured to emit or broadcast the auscultated sounds of the auscultated signal or auscultated sound data derived from the auscultated signal with a speaker device provided to the mobile user device 104 or the computer 106 or the external audio device 102. Accordingly, chestpiece 10 enables the auscultated sounds to be listened on site where the patient is or at distant location over the communication connection 100.

[0178] The chestpiece 10 further comprises an amplifier unit 70 comprising an amplifier and configured to provide amplification of the auscultated sound signal into an amplified auscultated sound signal.

[0179] The amplifier unit 70 comprises any known or future amplifier capable of amplifying the auscultated sound signal or capable of sound volume level of the auscultated sound signal.

[0180] The amplifier unit 70 is configured to provide amplification of the sound volume level of the auscultated sound signal. The amplifier unit 70 is configured to generate amplified auscultated sound signal having amplified sound volume level.

[0181] The amplifier unit 70 may comprise an electronic amplifier component configured to increase power of the auscultated sound signal and generate the amplified auscultated sound signal and / or to increase audio power of the auscultated sound signal and generate the amplified auscultated sound signal. Further, the amplifier unit 70 is configured to adjust sound volume level of the auscultated sound signal as a response to adjusting the amplification level of the amplifier unit 70.

[0182] The amplifier unit 70 is provided as an adjustable amplifier unit 70 configured to adjust the amplification level of the amplifier unit 70. Thus, the magnitude of amplification of the auscultated sound signal in the amplifier unit 70 is provided adjustable.

[0183] The amplifier unit 70 is connected or operatively connected to the processing unit 40.

[0184] The chestpiece 10 further comprises a movement sensor 74, or one or more movement sensors 74.

[0185] The movement sensor 74 is an accelerometer, gyroscope or magnetometer, or some other movement sensor. The movement sensor 74 may also comprise two or more of accelerometer, gyroscope and magnetometer.

[0186] The movement sensor 74 is configured to detect movement or rotation of the chestpiece 10. The movement sensor 74 is configured to detect movement or rotation of the chestpiece 10 and generate a movement signal based on the detected movement of the chestpiece 10.

[0187] In some other embodiments, the movement sensor 74 is connected to the processing unit 40. The processing unit 40 is configured to the receive the movement signals] from the movement sensor 74.

[0188] The communication module 42 is further configured to receive movement data or movement signals] from the movement sensor(s) 74 or from the processing unit 40 and to transmit them to the external device.

[0189] Figure 5 shows one embodiment of the present invention. The chestpiece 10 comprises on the outer front surface 14 a photoplethysmography sensor 60 (PPG sensor). The outer front surface 14 is further provided with the diaphragm 15 arranged to form part of the outer front surface 14 of the chestpiece 10. The PPG sensor 60 is arranged on the outer front surface 14 of the body 12 adjacent to or besides the diaphragm 15.

[0190] The PPG sensor 60 is arranged to detect blood flow volume or change of blood flow volume in the patient body when it is placed against the skin of the patient.

[0191] The PPG sensor 60 comprises an optical emitter configured to emit light and a light detector arranged to detect light. The optical emitter emits light to a tissue of the patient and the light detector measures the reflected light from the tissue of the patient. The reflected light is proportional to blood volume variations. The PPG sensor generates a photoplethysmography (PPG) signal based on the reflected light measured with the light detector. The PPG signal can be used to diagnose for example cardiac arrhythmias, cardiovascular-related diseases such as atherosclerosis and arterial stiffness, or other cardiac and respiratory irregularities.

[0192] In some other embodiments the PPG sensor 60 is arranged on outer surface of the diaphragm 15.

[0193] In some further embodiments the PPG sensor 60 is arranged on the side of the inner surface of the diaphragm 15. The PPG sensor may be arranged on the inner surface of the diaphragm 15. Alternatively, PPG sensor may be arranged inside the audio chamber 20 at distance from the diaphragm 15. The PPG is arranged to measure, meaning emit and receive light, through the diaphragm 15. In some further embodiments, the diaphragm 15 is provided with a lens, opening or the like via which the PPG is arranged to measure, meaning emit and receive light.

[0194] Figure 6 shows a schematic side view of the embodiment of figures 5 and 6. As shown in figure 6, the PPG sensor 60 is arranged on the same level or flush with the diaphragm 15 on the outer front surface 14.

[0195] Alternatively, the PPG sensor 60 is arranged to protrude outwards from level of the diaphragm 15.

[0196] The PPG sensor 60 is connected to the processing unit 40 such that the processing unit is configured receive the generated PPG signal from the PPG sensor 60.

[0197] The communication module 42 is further configured to receive PPG data or PPG signal from the processing unit 40 or form the PPG sensor 60 and to transmit is to the external device.

[0198] The PPG sensor 60 enables detecting blood flow volume or change of blood flow volume in the patient body simultaneously and from the same location of the body with the auscultated sounds.

[0199] The present invention is based on an idea of providing at least part of the outer surface 14, 16, 18 of the body 12 of the chestpiece with antimicrobial material or with an antimicrobial coating.

[0200] Antimicrobial material or antimicrobial coating means material or a coating which inhibits the ability of microorganisms to grow on the surface of a material or eliminates microorganism coming into contact with the surface.

[0201] In the context of the present application the coating means a coating layer deposited directly on the outer surface of the body of the chestpiece. The coating layer is further bound or attached on the outer surface of the body of the chestpiece.

[0202] In the context of the present application embedding antimicrobial material to the body or to the surface of the body means that the antimicrobial material is incorporated into the material of the body of the chestpiece.

[0203] In some embodiments of the invention, the outer front surface 14 of the body of the chestpiece 10 is provided with the antimicrobial material or coating. In this embodiment, the antimicrobial material is provided to the entire outer front surface 14 or the antimicrobial coating is arranged to cover the entire outer front surface 14. Accordingly, the antimicrobial material is arranged to the diaphragm 15 and also the PPG sensor 60, or the coating is arranged to cover the diaphragm 15 and also the PPG sensor 60.

[0204] In some embodiments of the invention, the diaphragm 15 is provided with the antimicrobial material or coating. Thus, an antimicrobial diaphragm 15 is formed.

[0205] In some further embodiments, outer top surface 16, the outer front surface 14 and the outer side surface(s) 18 of the body 12 of the chestpiece 10 are provided with the with the antimicrobial material or coating. Accordingly, the entire outer surface of the body 12 of the chestpiece 10 is provided with the antimicrobial material or coating.

[0206] In the latter case, the antimicrobial coating is arranged to encapsulate the body 12 of the chestpiece 10 or the chestpiece 10 inside the antimicrobial coating. Accordingly, the antimicrobial coating is arranged to cover the entire chestpiece 10 or the body 12 of the chestpiece 10 or the entire outer surfaces 14, 16, 18. Accordingly, the antimicrobial coating is arranged to cover the diaphragm 15 and also the PPG sensor 60.

[0207] Accordingly, the entire outer surface of the body 12 of the chestpiece 10 is provided with the antimicrobial coating.

[0208] In another case, the body 12 of the chestpiece 10 is provide with embedded antimicrobial material. Accordingly, the antimicrobial material is provided to the entire chestpiece 10 or the body 12 of the chestpiece 10 or the entire outer surfaces 14, 16, 18. Accordingly, the antimicrobial material is arranged to the diaphragm 15 and also the PPG sensor 60.

[0209] Accordingly, the entire body 12 or the entire outer surface of the body 12 of the chestpiece 10 is provided with the antimicrobial material. In some further embodiments, the diaphragm 15 is made of antimicrobial material, such as coper or silver containing material, such that there is no need to provide the antimicrobial coating to the diaphragm 15. Thus, the properties of the diaphragm are not altered with the antimicrobial coating. In this case, the outer top surface 16, the outer side surface(s) 18 and the outer front surface 14, except the diaphragm 15, of the body 12 of the chestpiece 10 are provided with the with the antimicrobial coating or with embedded antimicrobial material.

[0210] Accordingly, the entire outer surface of the body 12 of the chestpiece 10 is provided antimicrobial.

[0211] The body 12 or the outer surfaces 14, 16, 18 of the body 12 of the chestpiece 10 are arranged to define a closed chestpiece space 11 inside the body 12. The closed chestpiece space Il a sealed space preventing contaminants and microorganisms from entering inside the closed chestpiece 11. The electrical components of the chestpiece 10 are arranged inside the closed chestpiece space 11, as shown in figure 4.

[0212] The outer surfaces 14, 16, 18 of the chestpiece 10 are provided as uninterrupted or continuous surfaces. Accordingly, the outer surfaces 14, 16, 18 of the chestpiece 10 are provided unbroken without any openings or holes into the inner space of the chestpiece.

[0213] Therefore, microorganism cannot enter to any opening or holes in the chestpiece 10.

[0214] The uninterrupted outer surface 14, 16, 18 and the closed chestpiece space 11 enable effective antimicrobial properties for the chestpiece 10. The closed chestpiece space 11 and the uninterrupted outer surface 14, 16, 18 enable providing an uninterrupted antimicrobial coating on the outer surface 14, 16, 18 of the body 12 of the chestpiece 10 without subjecting the components inside closed chestpiece space 11 to the antimicrobial coating or antimicrobial coating composition.

[0215] Figure 7 shows an embodiment in which the chestpiece 10 comprises one or more operating buttons 82. The one or more operating buttons 82 may be provided to any of the above embodiments.

[0216] The one or more operating buttons 82 are provided as internal operating buttons on inner side of the outer surface 14, 16, 18. The internal operating buttons allow forming the uninterrupted outer surface 14, 16, 18 of the body 12. The one or more operating buttons 82 may be provided in connection with the outer top surface 16 and on inner side of the outer top surface 16, as shown in figure 7. Alternatively, the one or more operating buttons 82 are provided in connection with the outer side surface 18 and on inner side of the outer side surface 18, or in connection with the outer top surface 16 and the outer side surface 18 and on inner side of the outer surfaces 16, 18.

[0217] Figure 7 shows an embodiment in which the outer top surface 16 is provided a power switch or activation switch 82. The activation switch 82 comprises a proximity sensor. The proximity sensor is configured to detect human tissue or skin in close proximity of the outer top surface 16 or the chestpiece 10. The proximity sensor is configured to set the activation switch to a first switching state as a response to detecting the human tissue or skin in close proximity of the outer top surface 16 of the chestpiece 10. The proximity sensor is configured to set the activation switch to a second switching state as a response to absence of the human tissue or skin in close proximity of the outer top surface 16 or the chestpiece 10, as a response to detecting the human tissue or skin in close proximity of the outer top surface 16.

[0218] The activation switch 82 may also be provided to the outer side surface 18.

[0219] The activation switch 82 is arranged under the outer top surface 16 or inside the chestpiece, or inner side of the outer top surface 16 such that the outer surfaces of the chestpiece 10 are uninterrupted.

[0220] The activation switch 82 is connected to the processing unit 40.

[0221] Figures 8 and 9 show an embodiment in which the amplifier unit 70 or the amplifier component thereof is configured to adjust amplification level of the amplifier unit 70 or the amplifier component based on the movement or rotation of the chestpiece 10 detected with the movement sensor 74. The movement sensor 74 is operatively connected to the amplifier unit 70.

[0222] The processing unit 40 is further configured to generate amplification instructions based on the received movement signal(s). The amplifier unit 70 is configured to receive the amplification instructions from the processing unit 40 as input and adjust the amplification level based on the received amplification instructions.

[0223] Figures 8 and 9 show schematically one embodiment in which the movement sensor 74 is configured to detect rotation of the chestpiece 10, and the amplifier unit 70 is configured to adjust amplification level of the amplifier unit 70 based on the detected rotation chestpiece 10.

[0224] The chestpiece 10 comprises chestpiece axis A. The chestpiece axis A is an imaginary axis. The movement sensor 74 is configured to detect rotation of the chestpiece 10 around the chestpiece axis A.

[0225] The chestpiece axis A is arranged to extend perpendicularly to the outer front surface 14 of the chestpiece 10 and / or perpendicularly to the diaphragm 15 provided to the outer front surface 14.

[0226] The movement sensor 74 is configured to detect rotation of the chestpiece 10 in a first rotation direction R around the chestpiece axis A. The amplifier unit 70 is configured to increase the amplification level of the amplifier unit 70 based on the detected rotation chestpiece 10 in the first rotation direction R around the chestpiece axis A. The movement sensor 74 is configured to generate a first chestpiece movement signal based on the rotation of the chestpiece 10 in the first rotation direction R around the chestpiece axis A detected with the movement sensor 74, and the amplifier unit 70 is configured to increase the amplification level of the amplifier unit 70 based on the first chestpiece movement signal.

[0227] Accordingly, the first chestpiece movement signal is indicative of the rotation direction of the chestpiece 10 in the first rotation direction R.

[0228] The movement sensor 74 is also configured to detect rotation of the chestpiece 10 in a second rotation direction L around the chestpiece axis A, and the amplifier unit 70 is configured to decrease the amplification level of the amplifier unit 70 based on the detected rotation chestpiece 10 in the second rotation direction L around the chestpiece axis A. The movement sensor 74 is configured to generate a second chestpiece movement signal based on the rotation of the chestpiece 10 in the second rotation direction L around the chestpiece axis A detected with the movement sensor 74, and the amplifier unit 70 is configured to decrease the amplification level of the amplifier unit 70 based on the second chestpiece movement signal.

[0229] The embodiment of the figures 8 and 9 enable providing the chestpiece 10 control function without external buttons and thus the uninterrupted outer surface 14, 16, 18 for the body of the chestpiece 10 is achieved.

[0230] Accordingly, the movements sensor 74 is configured to generate of movement signal as response to detecting movement of the chestpiece 10. The movement sensor is connected to the processing unit 40, and the processing unit 40 is configured to receive the movement signal and generate operating command based on the movement signal. The antimicrobial properties of the antimicrobial material or antimicrobial coating are achieved by presence of antimicrobial substance or compound in the coating or by a microstructure or nanostructure provided by the coating or the material.

[0231] The antimicrobial properties of the antimicrobial material or coating may also be achieved with the antimicrobial material or coating comprising nanoparticles distributed across the antimicrobial coating, or across the outer surface of the body, or across the body.

[0232] The nanoparticles comprise material or compound having antimicrobial properties itself. Thus, the antimicrobial property is distributed across the outer surface of the body, or across the body or across the coating with the antimicrobial nanoparticles.

[0233] The nanoparticles comprise one or more of the following: metal oxide nanoparticles, metal nanoparticles, metal hydroxide nanoparticles or quantum dots.

[0234] Quantum dots have antibacterial properties and can eliminate microorganisms through impairing the functions of antioxidative system in the cells and down regulating the antioxidative genes. In addition, quantum dots can directly damage the cell wall.

[0235] The quantum dots may be provided a solution for forming a colloidal coating suspension which is applied to the outer surface 14, 16, 18 of the body 12 for forming the antimicrobial coating.

[0236] In some embodiments, the antimicrobial material or coating comprises metal-associated cerium oxide nanoparticles (mCNP).

[0237] In the metal-associated cerium oxide nanoparticles the oxidizing response / mechanism is provided to perform disinfectant mechanisms. One disinfectant mechanism is an oxidation reaction involving the virus spike glycoproteins which inhibits virus-host cell interaction, thus, inactivating infectivity. Another mechanism is membrane peroxidation of the virus envelope to induce lysis, thereby rendering it ineffective. Each mechanism of disinfection can be accomplished via cerium oxide surface reactions. These mechanisms are selfregenerating since the nanoparticles are not used up in the disinfection process, allowing metal-associated cerium oxide nanoparticles to have further disinfection capabilities.

[0238] In a further embodiment, the particles may be made more efficacious through incorporation of silver. Silver enables providing further generation of free radicals in application. Therefore, the metal of the metal-associated cerium oxide nanoparticles (mCNP) is silver.

[0239] The antimicrobial coating comprising silver containing nanoparticle (AgCNPs]. The AgCNPs are produced via a method comprising dissolving cerium and silver precursor salts such as cerium and silver nitrates, oxidizing the dissolved cerium and silver precursor salts via admixture with peroxide, and precipitating nanoparticles by subjecting the admixture with ammonium hydroxide. Alternatively, the AgCNPs may be produced via a method comprising (ij dissolving cerium and silver precursor salts such as cerium and silver nitrates; (ii) oxidizing and precipitating the dissolved cerium and silver precursor salts via admixture with ammonium hydroxide; (hi) wash and resuspend precipitated nanoparticles in water; (iv) subject the resuspended nanoparticles with hydrogen peroxide; and (v) washing the nanoparticles from step (iv) to remove ionized silver.

[0240] Thus, a dispensable and colloidal coating solution comprising AgCNPs is formed.

[0241] The antimicrobial nanoparticles may be provided to the body 12 or the material of the body 12 or the outer surface of the body 12 for providing the chestpiece antimicrobial.

[0242] In general, the antimicrobial coating is provided by forming a dispensable composition including a metal-associated cerium oxide nanoparticles (mCNP) and an excipient. The metal associated with the cerium oxide nanoparticles may include but is not limited to silver, gold, cobolt, zirconium, ruthenium, vanadanium, copper, titanium, nickel, platinum, tin, zinc, magnesium, molybdenum and iron.

[0243] The excipient is selected from the group consisting of water, chloroform, methylene chloride, acetone, methyl ethyl ketone, cyclohexane, ethyl acetate, diethyl ether, lower alcohols, lower diols, THF, DMSO, or DMF.

[0244] In some embodiments, the antimicrobial coating comprises metal- associated colloidal lignin particles (CLPs).

[0245] In some embodiments, the metal of the metal-associated colloidal lignin particles (CLPs) is silver.

[0246] In general, the antimicrobial coating is provided by forming a dispensable composition including a metal-associated colloidal lignin particles (CLPs). The metal associated with the cerium oxide nanoparticles may include but is not limited to silver, gold, cobolt, zirconium, ruthenium, vanadanium, copper, titanium, nickel, platinum, tin, zinc, magnesium, molybdenum and iron. In the case of utilizing silver, colloidal coating solution may be prepared with a deprotonation reaction of an organic solution of anhydrous lignin and subsequent ion exchange with silver nitrate and colloid formation by solvent exchange such that highly spherical silver carboxylate colloidal lignin particles (AgCLPs) are prepared. Silver is not released from the particles in deionized water but can be released in physiological conditions, shown by their high antibacterial efficacy with low silver loading. AgCLPs have high antibacterial activity even, and they retain their antibacterial activity for days.

[0247] Mean particle size of the nanoparticles in the coating solution and / or in the antimicrobial coating is less than 100 nm, or less than 50 nm, or less than 25 nm, or less than 10 nm.

[0248] The antimicrobial coating is preferably provided by first forming a dispensable coating composition.

[0249] The dispensable coating composition is colloidal solution or a liquid solution comprising the nanoparticles.

[0250] Therefore, the present invention provides a method for providing antimicrobial properties to a chestpiece 10 of an electronic stethoscope. The method comprises providing the antimicrobial coating on at least part of the outer surface 14, 16, 18 of the body 12.

[0251] The method comprises applying the antimicrobial coating composition on the outer surface 14, 16, 18 of the body 12 for forming the antimicrobial coating comprising nanoparticles distributed across the outer surface 14, 16, 18 of the body 12.

[0252] Figure 10 shows one embodiment of the method. The method comprises spraying an antimicrobial coating composition 420, or colloidal solution comprising the nanoparticles, on the outer surface 14, 16, 18 of the body 12 of the chestpiece 10.

[0253] The coating composition 420 is sprayed from a spraying device 400 comprising the coating composition 420 via a spray nozzle 402. The coating composition is configured to form the antimicrobial coating 430 on the outer surface 14, 16, 18 of the body 12 of the chestpiece 10, as shown in figure 11.

[0254] The antimicrobial coating solution 420 may be applied to all outer surfaces 14, 16, 18 or alternatively to the outer front surface 14, as disclosed above.

[0255] The formed antimicrobial coating 430 comprises antimicrobial nanoparticles 432.

[0256] In alternative embodiments, the coating solution 420 may be applied to the outer surface 14, 16,18 of the body 12 by spreading or by dipcoating the chestpiece 10.

[0257] It should be noted that the method and applying of the coating solution 420 is carried out such that the antimicrobial coating 430 according to any of the above disclosed examples and embodiments is achieved.

[0258] The applied coating solution 420 bonds on the outer surface 14, 16, 18 of the body 12 of the chestpiece 10 after the applying and thus forms a dry antimicrobial coating 430. The coating solution 420 becomes bonded to the outer surface 14, 16, 18 during the drying such that a long-lasting coating is provided.

[0259] The bonded antimicrobial coating 430 enables the diaphragm 15 to operate without substantially deteriorating acoustic properties.

[0260] Thickness of the formed antimicrobial coating 430 is preferably as low as possible. In some embodiments, the thickness of the antimicrobial coating is less than 0,05 mm, preferably less than 0,01 mm.

[0261] The low thickness of the antimicrobial coating provides an invisible or nearly invisible coating which is bonded to the outer surface 14, 16, 18 of the body 12. This enables utilizing the PPG sensor 60 on the outer front surface 14 of the body 12 and provide the antimicrobial coating 430 also over the PPG sensor 60.

[0262] Figure 12 further shows schematically a body strap 200 for attaching the chestpiece 10 to the patient body. The body strap 200 comprises a chestpiece holder 220 arranged to receive the chestpiece 10 and mount the chestpiece 10 to the body strap 200. The body strap 200 allows utilizing the chestpiece 10 long periods time continuously for collecting information from the patient. The antimicrobial coating 430 of the chestpiece 10 provides safe utilization of the chestpiece 10 for extended times against the skin of the patient by preventing microorganism growth on the outer surfaces of the chestpiece 10.

[0263] The invention has been described above with reference to the examples shown in the figures. However, the invention is in no way restricted to the above examples but may vary within the scope of the claims.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A chestpiece (10) for an electronic stethoscope, the chestpiece (10) comprising:- a body (12) having an outer surface (14, 16, 18),- an audio chamber (20) inside the body (12) for detecting auscultated sound from a patient body,- a first microphone (32) provided inside the body (12) in connection with the sound chamber (20) for converting the auscultated sound into an auscultated sound signal,- a processing unit (40) provided inside the body (12) and configured to receive the auscultated sound signal from the first microphone (32), and- a wireless communication module (42) provided inside the body (12) and configured to transmit the auscultated sound signal from the chestpiece (10) to an external receiver, characterized in that at least part of the outer surface (14, 16, 18) of the body (12) is provided with antimicrobial material (420, 430).

2. A chestpiece (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that the antimicrobial material (420, 430) is adhered to the at least part of the outer surface (14, 16, 18) of the body (12).

3. A chestpiece (10) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the antimicrobial material (420, 430) is provided as an antimicrobial coating on the at least part of the outer surface (14, 16, 18) of the body (12).

4. A chestpiece (10) according claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the antimicrobial material (420, 430) is embedded into the at least part of the outer surface (14, 16, 18) of the body (12).

5. A chestpiece (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the body (12) of the chestpiece (10) comprises an outer front surface (14) arranged to be placed against the patient body, the audio chamber (20) is provided in connection with the outer surface for detecting the auscultated sound from the patient body via the outer front surface (14), and the outer front surface (14) is provided with the antimicrobial material (420, 430).

6. A chestpiece (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the body (12) of the chestpiece (10) comprises the outer front surface (14) provided with a diaphragm (15) arranged to form a front chamber wall of the audio chamber (20), the diaphragm (15) is provided with the antimicrobial material (420, 430).

7. A chestpiece (10) according to any one of clams 1 to 6, c h a r a c t e r i z e d in that:- the body (12) of the chestpiece (10) is arranged to define a closed chestpiece space (11) inside the body (12), and the outer surface (14, 16, 18) of the body (12) is provided with the antimicrobial material (420, 430); or- the body (12) of the chestpiece (10) comprises the outer front surface (14), the outer top surface (16) and the outer side surfaces (18) extending between the outer front surface (14) and the outer top surface (16), the body (12) of the chestpiece (10) is arranged to define a closed chestpiece space (11) inside the body (12) and the outer front surface (14), the outer top surface (16) and the outer side surfaces (18) are provided with the antimicrobial material (420, 430).

8. A chestpiece (10) according to any one of clams 1 to 7, c h a r a c t e r i z e d in that:- the outer surface (14, 16, 18) of the body (12) is formed as an uninterrupted surface; or- the body (12) of the chestpiece (10) comprises the outer front surface (14), the outer top surface (16) and the outer side surfaces (18) extending between the outer front surface (14) and the outer top surface (16), and the outer front surface (14), the outer top surface (16) and the outer side surfaces (18) are arranged to form together an uninterrupted outer surface of the chestpiece (10).

9. A chestpiece (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, c h a r a c t e r i z e d in that the chestpiece (10) comprises one or more operating buttons (82), and that:- the one or more operating buttons (82) being provided as internal operating buttons on inner side of the outer surface (14, 16, 18); or- the one or more operating buttons (82) being provided as internal operating buttons on inner side of the outer top surface (16), or the outer side surface (18), or outer top surface (16) and the outer side surface (18).

10. A chestpiece (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the antimicrobial material (420, 430) or the antimicrobial coating (430) is provided directly on the outer surface (14, 16, 18) of the body (12) of the chestpiece (10).

11. A chestpiece (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that:- the antimicrobial material (420, 430) comprises nanoparticles (432) distributed across the antimicrobial material (420, 430); or- the antimicrobial material (420, 430) comprises nanoparticles (432) distributed across the antimicrobial material (420, 430), the nanoparticles (432) comprising one or more substances having antimicrobial properties for providing antimicrobial properties to the antimicrobial coating (430); or- the antimicrobial coating (420, 430) comprises nanoparticles (432) distributed across the antimicrobial coating (420, 430); or- the antimicrobial coating (420, 430) comprises nanoparticles (432) distributed across the antimicrobial coating (420, 430), the nanoparticles (432) comprising one or more substances having antimicrobial properties for providing antimicrobial properties to the antimicrobial coating (420, 430); or- the antimicrobial material (420, 430) comprises nanoparticles (432) distributed across the at least part of the outer surface (14, 16, 28) of the body (12); or- the antimicrobial material (420, 430) comprises nanoparticles (432) distributed across the at least part of the outer surface (14, 16, 28) of the body (12), the nanoparticles (432) comprising one or substances having antimicrobial properties for providing antimicrobial properties to the antimicrobial coating (420, 430).

12. A chestpiece (10) according to claim 11, characterized in that the nanoparticles (432) comprise one or more of the following: metal oxide nanoparticles, metal nanoparticles, metal hydroxide nanoparticles or quantum dots.

13. A chestpiece (10) according to claim 11 or 12, characterized in that the antimicrobial material (420, 430) comprises:- metal-associated cerium oxide nanoparticles (mCNP); or- metal-associated colloidal lignin particles (CLPs).

14. A chestpiece (10) according to claim 13, c h a r a c t e r i z e d in that:- the metal of the metal-associated cerium oxide nanoparticles (mCNP) is silver; or- the metal of the metal-associated colloidal lignin particles (CLPs) is silver.

15. A chestpiece (10) according to any one of claims 11 to 14, c h a r a c t e r i z e d in that the metal of the nanoparticles (432) comprise one or more of the following: silver, gold, ruthenium, vanadanium, copper, titanium, nickel, platinum, titanium, tin, iron, zinc, cobolt, zirconium, magnesium, and molybdenum.

16. A chestpiece (10) according to any one of claims 11 to 15, c h a r a c t e r i z e d in that:- the mean particle size of the nanoparticles is less than 100 nm; or- the mean particle size of the nanoparticles is less than 50 nm; or- the mean particle size of the nanoparticles is less than 25 nm; or- the mean particle size of the nanoparticles is less than 10 nm.

17. A method for providing antimicrobial properties to a chestpiece (10) of an electronic stethoscope, the chestpiece (10) comprising:- a body (12) having an outer surface (14, 16, 18),- an audio chamber (20) inside the body (12) for detecting auscultated sound from a patient body,- a first microphone (32) provided inside the body (12) in connection with the sound chamber (20) for converting the auscultated sound into an auscultated sound signal,- a processing unit (40) provided inside the body (12) and configured to receive the auscultated sound signal from the first microphone (32), and- a wireless communication module (42) provided inside the body (12) and configured to transmit the auscultated sound signal from the chestpiece (10) to an external receiver,c h a r a c t e r i z e d in that the method comprises providing an antimicrobial material (420, 430) to at least part of the outer surface (14, 16, 18) of the body (12).

18. A method according to claim 17, c h a r a c t e r i z e d in that providing the antimicrobial material (420, 430) to the at least part of the outer surface (14, 16, 18) of the body (12) comprises adhering the antimicrobial material (420, 430) to the at least part of the outer surface (14, 16, 18) of the body (12).

19. A method according to claim 17 or 18, c h a r a c t e r i z e d in that providing the antimicrobial material (420, 430) to the at least part of the outer surface (14, 16, 18) of the body (12) comprises providing the body (12) with embedded antimicrobial material (420, 430).

20. A method according to claim 17 or 18, c h a r a c t e r i z e d in that:- the method comprises applying the antimicrobial material(420, 430) on the outer surface (14, 16, 18) of the body (12) of the chestpiece (10) for forming an antimicrobial coating (430) on the outer surface (14, 16, 18) of the body (12); or- the body (12) of the chestpiece (10) is arranged to define a closed chestpiece space (11) inside the body (12) and the outer front surface (14), and the method comprises applying the antimicrobial material (420) on all outer surfaces (14, 16, 18) of the body (12) of the chestpiece (10) for encapsulating the chestpiece (10) with an antimicrobial coating (430); or- the body (12) of the chestpiece (10) comprises the outer front surface (14) provided with a diaphragm (15) arranged to form a front chamber wall of the audio chamber (20), and the method comprises applying the antimicrobial material (420) on the diaphragm (15) for forming an antimicrobial coating (430) on the diaphragm; or- the body (12) of the chestpiece (10) comprises the outer front surface (14), the outer top surface (16) and the outer side surfaces (18) extending between the outer front surface (14) and the outer top surface (16), the body (12) of the chestpiece (10) is arranged to define a closed chestpiece space (11) inside the body (12) and the outer front surface (14), the method comprises applying the antimicrobial material (420) on the outer top surface (16), the outer side surfaces (18) and to the outer front surface (14) for forming an antimicrobial coating (430).

21. A method according to any one of claims 17 to 20, characterized in that:- the method comprises providing to at least part of the outer surface (14, 16, 18) of the body (12) with antimicrobial material (420, 430) comprising nanoparticles (432) distributed across the outer surface (14, 16, 18) of the body (12); or- the antimicrobial material (420, 430) comprises nanoparticles (432), the method comprises providing the at least part of the outer surface (14, 16, 18) of the body (12) with the antimicrobial coating (430) comprising the nanoparticles (432) distributed across the outer surface (14, 16, 18) of the body (12); or- the antimicrobial material (420, 430) comprises nanoparticles (432), the method comprises applying the antimicrobial coating composition (420) on the outer surface of the body (14, 16, 18) for forming the antimicrobial coating (430) comprising nanoparticles (432) distributed across the outer surface (14, 16, 18) of the body (12).

22. A method according to claim 21, characterized in that in that the nanoparticles (432) comprise one or more of the following: metal oxide nanoparticles, metal nanoparticles, metal hydroxide nanoparticles or quantum dots.

23. A method according to claim 21 or 22, characterized in that the antimicrobial coating composition (420) comprises:- metal-associated cerium oxide nanoparticles (mCNP); or- metal-associated colloidal lignin particles (CLPs).

24. A method according to claim 23, characterized in that the- the metal of the metal-associated cerium oxide nanoparticles (mCNP) is silver; or- the metal of the metal-associated colloidal lignin particles (CLPs) is silver.

25. A method according to any one of claims 21 to 24, characterized in that the metal of the nanoparticles (432) of the antimicrobial coating composition (420) comprises one or more of the following:silver, gold, ruthenium, vanadanium, copper, titanium, nickel, platinum, titanium, tin, iron, zinc, cobolt, zirconium, magnesium, and molybdenum.

26. A method according to any one of claims 20 to 25, c h a r a c t e r i z e d in that:- the antimicrobial material (420) is formed as a dispensable solution for providing the antimicrobial coating (430); or- the antimicrobial material (420) is formed as a colloidal solution comprising an excipient and the nanoparticles for providing the antimicrobial coating (430).

27. A method according to claim 26, c h a r a c t e r i z e d in that the method comprises:- spraying the antimicrobial material (420) on the outer surface (14, 16, 18) of the body (12) of the chestpiece (10); or- spreading the antimicrobial material (420) on the outer surface (14, 16, 18) of the body (12) of the chestpiece (10); or- dipcoating the outer surface (14, 16, 18) of the body (12) of the chestpiece (10) with the antimicrobial material (420).

28. A method according to any one of claims 17 to 27, c h a r a c t e r i z e d in that the chestpiece (10) is a chestpiece according to any one of claims 1 to 16.

29. Use of an antimicrobial material (420, 430) provided directly to at least part of an outer surface of a chestpiece (10) of an electronic stethoscope, the chestpiece (10) comprising a body (12) having an outer surface (14, 16, 18), an audio chamber (20) inside the body (12) for detecting auscultated sound from a patient body, a first microphone (32) provided inside the body (12) in connection with the sound chamber (20) for converting the auscultated sound into an auscultated sound signal, a processing unit (40) provided inside the body (12) and configured to receive the auscultated sound signal from the first microphone (32), and a wireless communication module (42) provided inside the body (12) and configured to transmit the auscultated sound signal from the chestpiece (10) to an external receiver.

30. Use according to claim 29, characterized in that the chestpiece (10) is a chestpiece according to any one of claims 1 to 16.

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