Wireless glucose monitoring system with dynamic communication management

Abstract

Techniques are provided for dynamically managing wireless communications of glucose monitoring systems. The systems dynamically adjust the communication session intervals based on various dynamic conditions. Some systems are also configured with an antenna positioned on an opposing side of a chip from other sensor electronics and / or outside of an encasing of potting material to enhance the signaling functionality of the antenna.

Description

WIRELESS GLUCOSE MONITORING SYSTEM WITH DYNAMIC COMMUNICATION MANAGEMENTCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of and priority to United States Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 548,270 filed on 13 November 2023 and entitled "WIRELESS GLUCOSE MONITORING SYSTEM WITH DYNAMIC COMMUNICATION MANAGEMENT," which application is expressly incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.BACKGROUND

[0002] Analyte sensing devices, such as continuous glucose monitors (CGMs), are widely used in the medical field to track a user's blood glucose levels. The term "analyte" refers to a substance that is the subject of an analysis. In the context of a CGM, glucose is considered the analyte and the glucose level is also commonly referred to as a "blood sugar" level.

[0003] A CGM typically includes a glucose sensor that enters or permeates at least partially through the user's skin. The CGM acquires sensor readings on a periodic basis, such as once every select number of minutes. Most CGMs also include a wireless transceiver or other electronics that store and send the sensor readings to a device, referred to herein as a reader, such as a smartphone.

[0004] Many GMS will intermittently establish communications with a reader after acquiring one or more sensor readings. For instance, the GMS might establish a Bluetooth connection with a reader and transmit the sensor readings to the reader. When establishing the Bluetooth connection, the GMS will undergo a process that includes advertising and which includes sending out a connection packet that may be detected by a reader within Bluetooth connectivity range of the GMS. When a reader detects and responds to the advertising, the reader will transmit a response back to the GMS to initiate the security and authentication processes, as well as the selection of a channel that will be used to transmit the sensor readings.

[0005] The sensor readings are only transmitted in conventional systems once the connection is fully established between the GMS and the reader. After the GMS transmits the sensor readings to the reader, the GMS will terminate the session and disconnect from the reader. Then, once a predetermined interval has passed, e.g., 5 minutes or another predetermined interval, the process will repeat.

[0006] The Bluetooth protocol operates at the 2.4 GHz ISM band. This bandwidth is sufficient to support 79 channels. However, only three of these channels can be used to perform advertising. If those channels are experiencing noise, it may be difficult for the GMS to make a connection with the reader. Unfortunately, this may result in a number of failed communication attempts before a connection is finally able to be established, if at all. The failed attempts to make a connection represent a loss of computational and battery resources.

[0007] Signal attenuation is another problem that can cause poor reception or connectivity problems. Signal attenuation can sometimes be caused by the placement and form factor of the CGM.

[0008] By way of example, some CGM systems are manufactured by encasing the glucose sensor and sensor electronics within a potting material. This potting material, while providing protection for the sensor and electronics, can potentially affect the wireless communication link by attenuating the signal between the sensor electronics and the reader.

[0009] Signal attenuation can also be caused as a result of the user placing the phone or other type of reader in one location (e.g., in a pants pocket) on one side of their body which is opposite the side of their body where the sensor is being worn.

[0010] Another reception and connectivity problem can include a lack of reflecting surfaces which can sometimes make it difficult for the signals from the CGM to be received by a reader. For instance, if the user is in a large area without reflecting surfaces, the signals from the CGM may not be reflected to and detected by the reader, even when they are in fairly close proximity, such as when the user's phone is positioned on the opposite side of the user's body.

[0011] Temperature is another factor that can influence the operation of glucose monitoring systems. For instance, the temperature of the user's body can affect the performance of the glucose sensor and the sensor electronics, including their power consumption and the transmission power of the wireless communication.

[0012] In view of the foregoing, it will be appreciated that there is an ongoing need and desire to provide improved techniques for managing dynamic communications for glucose monitoring systems.

[0013] The subject matter claimed herein is not limited to embodiments that solve any disadvantages or that operate only in environments such as those described above. Rather, this background is only provided to illustrate one exemplary technology area where some embodiments described herein may be practiced.BRIEF SUMMARY

[0014] Disclosed embodiments include novel systems and techniques for dynamically managing wireless communications of glucose monitoring systems.

[0015] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a computer system comprising a glucose sensor and sensor electronics, wherein the glucose sensor comprises a proximal portion coupled with sensor electronics and a distal portion configured to be positioned under skin and sense a glucose level in a bodily fluid of a user. The sensor electronics comprise a transceiver for wirelessly transmitting data indicative of the glucose level to a reader according to a wireless communication protocol; one or more processors; and a memory configured to store instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to iteratively: detect data indicative of the glucose level from the glucose sensor; establish a wireless communication session with the reader using the wireless communication protocol according to a predetermined communication interval; transmit at least a subset of the data indicative of the glucose level to the reader duringthe wireless communication session; and periodically evaluate and modify the predetermined communication interval based on an evaluation of dynamic signal conditions between the sensor electronics and the reader.

[0016] According to some aspects, the dynamic signal conditions may comprise current conditions detected by the system while attempting to establish the wireless communication session, such as a current signal strength detectable between the sensor electronics and the reader, or a determined location of the reader relative to the sensor electronics, or historic signal conditions corresponding to one or more prior communication sessions between the sensor electronics and the reader (e.g., a number of communication channel changes made during a prior communication session between the sensor electronics and the reader and / or determined signal strength of a prior communication session between the sensor electronics and the reader).

[0017] According to some aspects, the detecting and transmitting of the data indicative of the glucose level to the reader includes selecting a subset of the data indicative of the glucose level to be transmitted from the new data indicative of the glucose level, the selection of the subset being based on the dynamic signal conditions between the sensor electronics and the reader, wherein the dynamic signal conditions comprise ambient noise and / or body attenuation of a user.

[0018] According to some aspects, the glucose sensor comprises a transcutaneous glucose sensor, wherein the distal portion of the glucose sensor is configured to be implanted in a subcutaneous layer of the user.

[0019] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a computer system comprising a glucose sensor and sensor electronics, wherein the glucose sensor comprises a proximal portion coupled with sensor electronics and a distal portion configured to be positioned under skin and sense a glucose level in a bodily fluid of a user. The sensor electronics comprise a transceiver for wirelessly transmitting data indicative of the glucose level to a reader according to a wireless communication protocol; one or more processors; and a memory configured to store instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to iteratively: detect data indicative of the glucose level from the glucose sensor; establish wireless communication session with the reader using the wireless communication protocol according to a predetermined communication interval; transmit the glucose sensor data to the reader during the wireless communication session; and prior to ending the wireless communication session evaluate dynamic signal conditions between the sensor electronics and the reader to determine whether to extend the wireless communication session or to, alternatively, terminate the wireless communication session.

[0020] According to some aspects, the determination whether to extend the wireless communication session or to, alternatively, terminate the wireless communication session is based on a determined cost associated with maintaining the wireless communication session relative to a determined cost associated with establishing a new communication session between the system and the reader in an environment experiencing the dynamic signal conditions.

[0021] In some aspects, the determination whether to extend the wireless communication session or to, alternatively, terminate the wireless communication session is further based on a determined number of failed attempts to establish the wireless communication session prior to establishing the wireless communication session.

[0022] In some aspects, the determination whether to extend the wireless communication session or to, alternatively, terminate the wireless communication session is further based on a determined number of failed transmissions of the data indicative of the glucose level to the reader during the wireless communication session.

[0023] In some aspects, the determination whether to extend the wireless communication session or to, alternatively, terminate the wireless communication session is further based on a duration of time elapsed since a prior wireless communication session between the system and the reader.

[0024] In some aspects, the dynamic signal conditions include a signal strength detected between the system and the reader, ambient signal interference and / or a duration ambient signal interference.

[0025] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a computer system comprising a glucose sensor and sensor electronics, wherein the glucose sensor comprises a proximal portion coupled with sensor electronics and a distal portion configured to be positioned under skin and sense a glucose level in a bodily fluid of a user. The sensor electronics comprise a transceiver for wirelessly transmitting data indicative of the glucose level to a reader according to a wireless communication protocol; one or more processors; and a memory configured to store instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to iteratively: detect data indicative of the glucose level from the glucose sensor; select the reader from a plurality of different readers that are paired with the system, the selection of the reader being based on detected dynamic signal conditions between the sensor electronics and the reader; establish a wireless communication session with the reader using the wireless communication protocol according to a predetermined communication interval; and transmit the data indicative of the glucose level to the reader during the wireless communication session.

[0026] According to some aspects, the system will also, prior to ending the wireless communication session evaluate the dynamic signal conditions between the system and the reader to determine whether to extend the wireless communication session or to, alternatively, terminate the wireless communication session.

[0027] According to some aspects, the system will also, cause the sensor electronics to instruct the reader to transmit the glucose sensor data to a different reader.

[0028] In some aspects, the dynamic signal conditions comprise current conditions detected by the sensor electronics while attempting to establish the wireless communication session, a current signal strength detectable between the system and the reader, a determined location of the reader relative to the system, and / or historic signal conditions corresponding to one or more prior communication sessions between the system and the reader. The historic signal conditions may comprise a number of communication channel changes made during a prior communication session between the system and the reader and / or a determined signal strength of a prior communication session between the system and the reader.

[0029] In some aspects, the obtaining and transmitting of the data to the reader includes selecting a subset of the data to be transmitted, the selection of the subset of data being based on the dynamic signal conditions between the system and the reader.

[0030] In some aspects, the glucose sensor comprises a transcutaneous glucose sensor, wherein the distal portion of the glucose sensor is configured to be implanted in a subcutaneous layer of the user.

[0031] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a computer system comprising a glucose sensor and sensor electronics, wherein the glucose sensor comprises a proximal portion coupled with sensor electronics and a distal portion configured to be positioned under skin and sense a glucose level in a bodily fluid of a user. The sensor electronics comprise a transceiver for wirelessly transmitting data indicative of the glucose level to a reader according to a wireless communication protocol; one or more processors; and a memory configured to store instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to iteratively: detect data indicative of the glucose level from the glucose sensor; transmit an advertisement for establishing a wireless connection with the reader over the wireless communication protocol, the advertisement including a payload comprising the data indicative of the glucose level; and priorto establishinga wireless communication session with the reader over the wireless communication protocol, receiving an acknowledgment of the advertisement from the reader.

[0032] In some aspects, the system also refrains from establishing the wireless connection with the reader over wireless communication protocol in response to receiving the acknowledgment of the advertisement. In such embodiments, the system may obtain new data indicative of the glucose level from the system and transmit the new data to the reader encapsulated within a new advertisement for establishing a wireless connection with the reader.

[0033] In some aspects, the wireless communication protocol comprises a Bluetooth communication protocol such as Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) or Bluetooth 5.4. The Bluetooth protocol may operate in the 2.4 GHz ISM band.

[0034] In some aspects, the system will evaluate dynamic signal conditions between the system and the reader and, subsequent to receiving the acknowledgment of the advertisement from the reader, determine whether to establish a wireless communication session with the reader or to, alternatively, refrain from establishing the wireless communication session with the reader.

[0035] In some aspects, the system will also establish the wireless communication session with the reader; obtain new data indicative of the glucose level during the wireless communication session; and transmit the new glucose sensor data to the reader during the wireless communication session.

[0036] In some aspects, the dynamic signal conditions comprise current conditions detectable between the system and the reader, such as a current signal strength detectable between the system and the reader and / or a determined location of the reader relative to the system. The dynamic signal conditions may comprise historic signal conditions corresponding to one or more prior communication sessions between the system and the reader, such as a number of communication channel changes made during a prior communication session between the system and the reader and / or a determined signal strength of a prior communication session between the system and the reader.

[0037] In some aspects, the system will encrypt the data prior to transmitting the data.

[0038] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a computer system comprising a glucose sensor and sensor electronics, wherein the glucose sensor comprises a proximal portion coupled with sensor electronics and a distal portion configured to be positioned under skin and sense a glucose level in a bodily fluid of a user. The sensor electronics comprise a transceiver for wirelessly transmitting data indicative of the glucose level to a reader according to a wireless communication protocol; one or more processors; and a memory configured to store instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to iteratively: detect data indicative of the glucose level from the glucose sensor; detect temperature sensor data indicative of a temperature of a user's body from the temperature sensor; establish a wireless communication session with the reader over the wireless communication protocol; and select a transmission power level from a plurality of different transmission power levels to use for communicating with the reader over the wireless communication protocol based on the temperature sensor data.

[0039] In some aspects, the system will select a subset of the glucose sensor data to be transmitted to the reader during the wireless communication session based on the selected transmission power level.

[0040] In some aspects, the system will refrain from establishing the wireless communication session with the reader unless the temperature sensor data meets or exceeds a predetermined threshold temperature.

[0041] In some aspects, the system will select a first transmission power level when the temperature sensor data indicates the temperature of the user's body is within a first temperature range and a second transmission power level when the temperature sensor data indicates the temperature of the user's body is above the first temperature range.

[0042] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a computer system comprising a glucose sensor and sensor electronics, wherein the glucose sensor comprises a proximal portion coupled with sensor electronics and a distal portion configured to be positioned under skin and sense a glucose level in a bodily fluid of a user. The sensor electronics comprise a transceiver for wirelessly transmitting data indicative of the glucose level to a reader according to a wireless communication protocol; one or more processors; and a memory configured to store instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to iteratively: detect data indicative of the glucose level from the glucose sensor; establish a wireless communication session with the reader over the wireless communication protocol.

[0043] In some aspects, the sensor electronics are physically mounted to the first surface of the hardware chip and the antenna is physically mounted to a second surface of the hardware chip.

[0044] In some aspects the proximal portion of the glucose sensor and the sensor electronics are enclosed within a potting material.

[0045] In some aspects the proximal portion of the glucose sensor and at least a portion of the sensor electronics are molded within the potting material.

[0046] In some aspects a portion of the antenna is exposed outside of the potting material.

[0047] In some aspects, the glucose sensor comprises a transcutaneous glucose sensor that extends beyond the potting material during use when the system is worn by a user.

[0048] This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This Summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0049] Additional features and advantages will be set forth in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by the practice of the teachings herein. Features and advantages of the invention may be realized and obtained by means of the instruments and combinations particularly pointed out in the appended claims. Features of thepresent invention will become more fully apparent from the following description and appended claims, or may be learned by the practice of the invention as set forth hereinafter.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0050] In order to describe the manner in which the above-recited and other advantages and features can be obtained, a more particular description of the subject matter briefly described above will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments which are illustrated in the appended drawings. Understanding that these drawings depict only typical embodiments and are not therefore to be considered to be limiting in scope, embodiments will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings in which:

[0051] Figure 1 illustrates an example architecture in which sensor data is being acquired and analyzed.

[0052] Figure 2 illustrates an example of an analyte sensor in the form of a continuous glucose monitor.

[0053] Figure 3 illustrates a chart that is plotting data obtained from the analyte sensor.

[0054] Figure 4 illustrates an example scenarios where an analyte sensor data is experiencing poor signal connectivity with a reader.

[0055] Figures 5-9 illustrate flowcharts of example methods for dynamically managing communications between a sensor and a reader based dynamic conditions.

[0056] Figure 10 illustrates an example system comprising a glucose sensor and sensor electronics.

[0057] Figure 11 illustrates an example system comprising a glucose sensor and sensor electronics, wherein the sensor electronics include an antenna and the sensor electronics are encapsulated in a potting material.

[0058] Figure 12 illustrates an example system comprising a glucose sensor and sensor electronics, wherein the sensor electronics include an antenna and the sensor electronics are encapsulated in a potting material, with at least a portion of the antenna exposed outside of the potting material.

[0059] Figure 13 illustrates an example system comprising a glucose sensor and sensor electronics, wherein a first set of sensor electronics are positioned on a first side of a hardware chip and an antenna of the sensor electronics is positioned on an opposing side of the hardware chip from the first set of sensor electronics.

[0060] Figure 14 illustrates an example system that includes and / or that may be used to implement the disclosed embodiments.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0061] Disclosed embodiments include systems and methods for dynamically managing wireless communications of glucose monitoring systems. The systems dynamically adjust the communication session intervals based on various dynamic conditions.

[0062] By dynamically adjusting the interval for establishing the communication sessions, it is possible to conserve energy and processing resources that would otherwise be consumed, for example, when attempting to establish the communication sessions in unfavorable conditions.

[0063] Some systems are also configured with an antenna positioned on an opposing side of a chip from other sensor electronics and / or outside of an encasing of potting material to enhance the signaling functionality of the antenna.

[0064] By providing a form factor that exposes the antenna, it is possible to achieve improved signaling and, likely, improved success when establishing the communication sessions.

[0065] Throughout this disclosure, there are many references to glucose levels and CGMs. A person skilled in the art, however, will appreciate how the disclosed principles can be applied to any type of analyte and to any type of analyte sensor, including both invasive sensors (i.e. a sensor that at least partially enters a patient's body) and non-invasive sensors (i.e. a sensor that does not enter the patient's body). Examples of analytes include, but are not limited to, glucose, ketone, lactate, alcohol, and other such analytes. Therefore, even though a majority of the examples are with respect to glucose levels and CGMs, the principles should be viewed as being more broadly applicable.Example Architectures

[0066] Figure 1 illustrates an example architecture 100 that can be used to achieve the benefits mentioned above. Architecture 100 is shown as including a service 105. As used herein, the term "service" refers to an automated program that is tasked with performing different actions based on input. In some cases, service 105 can be a deterministic service that operates fully given a set of inputs and without a randomization factor. In other cases, service 105 can be or can include an artificial intelligence (Al) or machine learning (ML) engine, as shown by ML engine 110. With the ML engine 110, service 105 can operate even when faced with various different randomization factors.

[0067] As used herein, reference to any type of ML or Al may include any type of ML algorithm or device, convolutional neural network(s), multilayer neural network(s), recursive neural network(s), deep neural network(s), decision tree model(s) (e.g., decision trees, random forests, and gradient boosted trees) linear regression model(s), logistic regression model(s), support vector machine(s) ("SVM"), Al device(s), or any other type of intelligent computing system. Any amount of training data may be used (and perhaps later refined) to train the ML algorithm to dynamically perform the disclosed operations.

[0068] In some implementations, service 105 is a cloud service operating in a cloud environment, such as cloud 115. In some implementations, service 105 is a local service operating on a local device (e.g., sensor 130, device 125, and / or any other device). In some implementations, service 105 is a hybrid service that includes a cloud component operating in the cloud 115 and a local component operating on a local client device. These two components can communicate with one another.

[0069] Service 105 is tasked with various operations that include collecting sensor data, analyzing that sensor data, and determining the impact of that sensor data with respect to a user associated with the sensor data. To do so, service 105 can include an analytics 120 component that is capable of performing data analysis on the collected sensor data. In some examples, analytics 120 and ML Engine 110 can be the same component.

[0070] As shown in Figure 1, service 105 can communicate with a device 125. Device 125 can be any type of personal device, including any type of wearable device or mobile device. Examples of device 125 include, but certainly are not limited to, any type of device reader, smart phone, tablet, laptop, desktop, wearable device, and so on. Device 125 is shown as communicating with a sensor 130 and is further shown as receiving sensor data 135 from the sensor 130. Sensor 130 is the component that collects the sensor data 135. In some cases, device 125 and sensor 130 can be implemented on the same device.

[0071] Sensor 130 can be any type of sensor. One particular example of sensor 130 includes a CGM. A CGM operates by inserting a small sensing unit under a person's skin. This sensing unit then measures that person's interstitial glucose levels. Typically, this sensing unit acquires new data at a periodic rate, such as once every selected number of minutes, although the data could also be collected continuously. That data is represented as sensor data 135 in Figure 1.

[0072] Device 125 communicates with sensor 130 using any type of near-field wireless communication technology, such as Bluetooth. As a result, sensor data 135 is transmitted from sensor 130 to reader, such as device 125, over that communication protocol. The reader may bea mobile phone, for example, which has an application installed on it to process and display the sensor data 135.

[0073] Service 105 can communicate with device 125 via any type of wireless communication protocol as well. In some implementations, the communication protocol is a Bluetooth protocol such as the 5.4 Bluetooth protocol or Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE). In some implementations, the protocol is a wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi), near field communication (NFC), and / or Internet Protocol (IP). Often, device 125 transmits the sensor data 135 to the cloud 115, where that sensor data 135 is then stored in a repository that is accessible to service 105.

[0074] In some implementations, the sensor data 135 is encrypted or otherwise integrity protected to ensure tampering does not occur. Also, in some implementations, any personally identifiable information (PI I) is stripped from sensor data 135 prior to it being stored in the cloud 115.

[0075] Service 105 then uses its analytics 120 component and / or the ML engine 110 to analyze the sensor data 135. Service 105 generates output data 140 as a result of performing that analysis. In the scenario where sensor 130 is a CGM and where the sensor data 135 reflects glucose levels for a user, the output data 140 can reflect glycemic insights such as a glycemic impact 145 for the user. Glycemic impact 145 generally refers to a patient's bodily state with respect to blood sugar levels. Figure 2 provides another example.

[0076] Figure 2 shows a device 200, comprising a reader, which is representative of device 125 from Figure 1. Device 200 is in communication with a CGM 205, which is representative of sensor 130. CGM 205 is currently affixed to the user's arm and is tracking the user's glucose levels. Device 200 is hosting an application (or simply "app") 210. App 210 provides a visualization of the tracked data (e.g., a graph or trace of glucose levels over a period of time).

[0077] Figure 3 shows a glucose chart 300 that is rendered on or as part of a user interface or graphical interface that is generated to render the glucose chart 300. In some instances, the glucose chart 300 is rendered as a display element of the user interface generated for and presented by the app 210 of Figure 2. As shown, glucose chart 300 is currently displaying sensor data 305, which is reflective of the user's glucose levels over a period of time. For instance, the horizontal axis reflects the glucose levels over a minutes-based time period. In this regard, the glucose chart 300 is a time-series graph that represents discrete visualizations or graphical indicators corresponding to and representing corresponding glucose levels for each rendered graphical indicator in the chart.

[0078] In conventional systems, the sensor (e.g., a sensor such as CGM 205) will be configured to establish (or at least attempt to establish) communications with the reader at a predetermined interval, e.g., every minute, every 2 minutes, every 3 minutes, every 4 minutes, every 5 minutes, every 5+n minutes, or at a frequency that is between any of the intervals mentioned. Once the communication session is established between the sensor and the reader, the sensor will transmit the sensor data that was obtained during a fixed period of the preceding time (e.g., the previous 5 minutes). A user can also engage with the application on the reader to query the sensor for additional information if desired. After the sensor data is transmitted, the sensor may terminate the communication session with the reader.

[0079] Each time the sensor attempts or successfully establishes communications with a reader, it must first send an advertisement to connect with a receptive reader (e.g., device 200). Readers that receive the advertisement can acknowledge receipt of the advertisement by transmitting an acknowledgement packet back to the sensor. Then, the devices can proceed through the connection process which may include the transmission of authentication data and the exchange of security tokens, as well as the selection of the channel that the communication session will proceed on. In conventional systems, none of the actual sensor data is transmitted with the advertisement.

[0080] In conventional systems, the Bluetooth advertisement is typically retransmitted by the advertiser (e.g., the sensor) over channel 37, channel 38 and / or channel 39 of the industrial, scientific, and medical (ISM) band at a repeating fixed interval, such as an interval of between 20 milliseconds - 10.24 seconds. The longer the interval, the less power the system will consume. The interval repeats for a fixed duration until a connection is established with a reader and / or until it is determined no connection will not be established (e.g., no reader has sent an acknowledgment packet back to the advertiser acknowledging receipt of the packet).

[0081] In conventional systems, the Bluetooth advertisement is a data packet limited to 31 bytes. However, with new Bluetooth protocols (E.g., Bluetooth 5.4), the advertising data packet can be 255 bytes and can also use extensions. The extensions are transmitted on channels of the ISM band other than the 37, 38 and 39 advertising channels. The locations and identifier information for the extensions are specifically identified in the advertising packets so that they can be found. The use of extensions can be helpful when there is too much information to be transmitted in the advertising packet to fit in the prescribed 31 or 255 bytes.

[0082] The data included in an advertising packet may include, for example, the advertiser name (e.g., the sensor), the transmit power value or received signal strength indicator (RSSI) thatindicates range, a universally unique identifier (UUID) that comprises a 128 bit label to identify different types or formats of data to be transmitted, as well as other information that may be used or important for the establishment of a communication session between the advertiser (e.g., the sensor) and the advertisement receiving device (e.g., the reader).

[0083] In some embodiments discussed below, the disclosed systems will include sensor data within the advertisement packet, so that the reader can receive and process the sensor data without ever establishing the communication session with the sensor. To protect the security of the sensor data, the sensor data may be encrypted with a digital signature or private key that corresponds to a public key or a decryption key known by the reader and which may have been previously provided to the reader or application running on the reader during a registration process of the sensor, and / or during a previous communication session between the sensor and the reader, for example.

[0084] In many embodiments, as discussed herein, the predetermined interval for initiating the advertising process for establishing the communication session(s) between the sensor and the reader will be dynamically adjusted in response to detected dynamic signal conditions associated with the sensor and / or reader (e.g., changing the interval for establishing the communication sessions from every 5 minutes to every 2 minutes or every 10 minutes). The interval for transmitting the advertisements during the advertising process may also be adjusted dynamically based on the detected dynamic conditions (e.g., changing from a frequency of every 80 milliseconds to every 2 seconds).

[0085] The disclosed embodiments also include determining to maintain an established connection rather than disconnecting after transmitting the sensor data. For instance, it may be determined it is more processing cost-effective to remain connected for an extended period of time on a Bluetooth session (e.g., for a period of 1 hour or 2 hours), rather than reconnecting every 5 minutes when it is difficult to re-establish the connection due to dynamic signal conditions and until / unless the dynamic signal conditions change. For example, during an established connection, the sensor and / or reader may monitor the signal conditions and determine whether to terminate and / or extend the established connection prior to terminating the connection. Prior to terminating the connection, the reader and / or sensor can also determine a new periodic interval for attempting to re-establish a communication session, as well as the interval for transmitting the advertisements during the advertising process.

[0086] The dynamic signal conditions may comprise current conditions detected by the system while attempting to establish the wireless communication session, such as a current signalstrength detectable between the sensor electronics and the reader, or a determined location of the reader relative to the sensor electronics, or historic signal conditions corresponding to one or more prior communication sessions between the sensor electronics and the reader (e.g., a number of communication channel changes made during a prior communication session between the sensor electronics and the reader and / or a determined signal strength of a prior communication session between the sensor electronics and the reader).

[0087] The system may also track the relative position of the reader (e.g., a user's mobile phone) relative to the sensor, such as by detecting a signal strength or signal attenuation between the sensor and the reader. As this position and / or signal strength changes, the sensor may dynamically adjust the interval for initiating the communication session with the reader.

[0088] As indicated above, the sensor may receive instructions from the reader to adjust the interval (e.g., such as may be received during an established communication session). In other instances, the sensor independently determines when to adjust the interval based on detecting the dynamic signal conditions itself (e.g., based on detecting no acknowledging reader or by identifying previous communication patterns with the reader stored in memory).

[0089] In some instances, the interval and / or signal strength for sending the advertisement packets and / or data packets from the sensor to the reader can also be adjusted based on dynamic conditions detected by the sensor, such as the temperature of the user's body and which can affect the signal attenuation.

[0090] Figure 4 shows an example scenario involving a device, comprising a reader, and an app, which are representative of the device 200 and app 210 of Figure 2, respectively. However, in this example, the reader is not able to obtain sensor readings from the CGM, which does not currently have good wireless connectivity with the reader to communicate the latest sensor readings. As a result, the reader is not able to obtain updated sensor data and does not display glucose information for at least the periods of time that the sensor readings are not measured or communicated.

[0091] In the disclosed embodiments, the sensor may track failed attempts to connect with a reader and / or the contextual and environmental information associated with those failed attempts (E.g., which advertising channels were used, how many attempts were made and for what duration of time, when and where the attempts were made, whether the failure resulted from a signal that was too weak or from signal interference, how many readers acknowledged the advertisement, etc.). Some of the tracked information may be gathered from a reader and transmitted to the sensor during subsequent communication sessions, e.g., the location wherethe user was during a failed attempt and which may be gathered from a user's phone location service history.Example Methods

[0092] The following discussion now refers to a number of methods and method acts that may be performed. Although the method acts may be discussed in a certain order or illustrated in a flow chart as occurring in a particular order, no particular ordering is required unless specifically stated, or required because an act is dependent on another act being completed prior to the act being performed.

[0093] Attention will now be directed to Figure 5, which illustrates a flowchart of an example method 500 for dynamically managing the communications between a glucose sensor and a reader. Method 500 can be implemented by any of the systems and services described herein.

[0094] Method 500 includes an act of detecting data indicative of the glucose level from the glucose sensor (act 505). This may be accomplished when the proximal portion of the glucose sensor is positioned in or on the skin of a user and the proximal portion of the glucose sensor is connected to sensor electronics to detect the glucose level. The glucose sensor may also double as a temperature sensor with a temperature probe that is positioned with or included with the distal portion of the glucose sensor that with the sensor electronics generate signals indicative of a temperature and temperature change of a user.

[0095] Next, the glucose sensor establishes a wireless communication session with a reader using a wireless communication protocol (act 510), such as Bluetooth 5.4, the BLE and / or any other protocols, and according to a predetermined communication interval (e.g., every 5 minutes, less than every 5 minutes, or more than every 5 minutes). This act may include initiating the communication session by transmitting an advertisement, which may be one or more advertisement packets that are transmitted and / or retransmitted according to a transmission frequency interval and for a predetermined duration of time. This advertisement may be sent over channels 37, 38 and / or 39 of the ISM band, for example.

[0096] Once an acknowledgement is received from the reader, the sensor will then transmit at least a subset of the data indicative of the glucose level to the reader during the wireless communication session that is established, (act 515). This may include sending sensor data corresponding to glucose levels, temperature levels, other analyte sensor data. The sensor data transmitted may also include sensor data gathered during a previously predetermined period of time (E.g., since the previous connection with the reader and / or the previous 5 minutes, etc.).The sensor data transmitted may also be the data that is currently requested by the reader in response to detecting a reader request specifying the data to be transmitted.

[0097] The method also includes periodically evaluating and modifying the predetermined communication interval based on an evaluation of dynamic conditions between the sensor electronics and the reader (act 520). This act may be performed before, during and / or after the communication session is established. As discussed above, this act may also be performed by the sensor and / or reader, as well as third party systems that provide information to the reader and sensor.

[0098] The different ways for evaluating the dynamic conditions and for modifying the predetermined communication interval have been discussed throughout this document.

[0099] Attention will now be directed to Figure 6, which illustrates a related flowchart of an example method 600 for dynamically managing the communications between a glucose sensor and a reader. Method 600 can be implemented by any of the systems and services described herein and includes some similar aspects as disclosed with method 500. For instance, acts 605, 610 and 615 correspond to acts 505, 510 and 515 for detecting data indicative of a glucose level (act 605), establishing a wireless communication session (act 610), and transmitting data indicative of the glucose level to the reader (act 615). This method also includes an act of prior to ending the wireless communication session, evaluating dynamic signal conditions between the sensor electronics and the reader to determine whether to extend the wireless communication session or to, alternatively, terminate the wireless communication session (act 620).

[0100] This may include determining to extend the session when the signal conditions are determined to be poor (e.g., detected ambient signal interference and duration of the interference, other issues related to noisy environments, difficulty establishing the connection and / or numbers of prior failed attempts, failed transmissions of sensor data, historical problems with prior connections, poor signal strength, etc.).

[0101] The determination to terminate a session may include a determination that the signal strength is good and that there were no problems establishing a prior connection with the reader.

[0102] Attention will now be directed to Figure 7, which illustrates a related flowchart of an example method 600 for dynamically managing the communications between a glucose sensor and a reader. Method 500 can be implemented by any of the systems and services described herein and includes some similar aspects as disclosed with methods 500 and 600. For instance,acts 705, 715 and 720 correspond to acts 505, 510 and 515 for detecting data indicative of a glucose level (act 705), establishing a wireless communication session (act 715), and transmitting data indicative of the glucose level to the reader (act 720). This method also includes an act of selecting a reader from a plurality of readers that are paired with the system, the selection of the reader being based on the detected dynamic signal conditions between the sensor electronics and the reader (act 710).

[0103] By way of example, the sensor may receive multiple acknowledgements from different readers when sending an advertisement. The sensor can select the reader to connect with from the plurality of readers based on current and prior conditions.

[0104] In some instances, the conditions for selecting the reader include a signal strength detectable between the system and the reader and / or a determined location of the reader relative to the sensor (e.g., a proximity determined by the advertising and / or acknowledgement information), system.

[0105] The conditions may also include historic signal conditions corresponding to one or more prior communication sessions between the system and the reader, such as a number of communication channel changes made during a prior communication session between the system and the reader and / or a determined signal strength of a prior communication session between the system and the reader.In some instances, the set or subset of data to be transmitted may also be based on the dynamic conditions. For instance, when conditions are poor, the system may transmit sparse or limited data. When the conditions are good, the system may transmit more complete data.

[0106] Attention will now be directed to Figure 8, which illustrates a related flowchart of an example method 800 for dynamically managing the communications between a glucose sensor and a reader. Method 800 can be implemented by any of the systems and services described herein and includes some similar aspects as disclosed with methods 500, 600 and 700, such as the detection of data indicative of the glucose level (act 805).

[0107] Method 800 also includes an act of transmitting an advertisement (e.g., a Bluetooth advertising packet transmitted in one or more repeated transmissions at a predetermined frequency for a predetermined duration of time) (act 810). Unlike conventional advertising packets, however, this packet includes payload data that comprises the data indicative of the glucose level. This data is included in the 255 bytes of a Bluetooth 5.4 advertising packet, for example. Alternatively, this data is included in an advertisement extension, according to the Bluetooth 5.4 protocol, which is transmitted over a different channel than an advertising channelthat the original advertising packet was sent, but which is referenced in the original advertisement packet.

[0108] Notably, this data is transmitted prior to completing the established communication session between the sensor and reader (E.g., prior to performing authentication and security token exchanges).

[0109] In some instances, the data is encrypted prior to being transmitted.

[0110] Attention will now be directed to Figure 9, which illustrates a related flowchart of an example method 900 for dynamically managing the communications between a glucose sensor and a reader. Method 900 can be implemented by any of the systems and services described herein and includes some similar aspects as disclosed with methods 500, 600, 700 and 800 , such as the detection of data indicative of the glucose level (act 905) and the establishment of the communication session (act 915).

[0111] This method also includes the detection of temperature sensor data that is indicative of a temperature of a user's body from a temperature sensor (act 910). The temperature sensor, for example, can be integrated into the glucose sensor mentioned above and include a thermometer or other sensor that can detect a temperature and convert that temperature into a digital representation.

[0112] The method also includes selecting a transmission power from a plurality of different power levels for the transceiver or other electronics included with the sensor electronics for transmitting the data to the reader and for communicating with the reader (including the transmission of the advertising packet and / or subsequent data packets that include the sensor data) (act 920).

[0113] In some embodiments, the system will refrain from establishing the wireless communication session with the reader unless the temperature sensor data meets or exceeds a predetermined threshold temperature (e.g., 18 degrees Celsius). In some instances, the system transmits data at a lower power level when the temperature of the user's body at the sensor location is determined to be in a first range above a first threshold (e.g., 18 degrees Celsius) and below a second threshold (e.g., 22 degrees Celsius or 25 degrees Celsius). The system will also transmit data at a higher power level when the temperature of the user's body at the sensor location is determined to be in a second range above the second threshold.

[0114] By making these adjustments, the system can avoid drawing unnecessary power from the battery, as less power is required at the lower temperatures.

[0115] As described, there are numerous benefits for managing the communications between a glucose sensor and a reader based on dynamic conditions to conserve power and to refrain from wasted processing required to establish connections when it is not necessary or the conditions are difficult. The disclosed embodiments may also be beneficially used for managing communications between other types of analyte sensors and corresponding readers.

[0116] The disclosed embodiments also include improved form factors for positioning the sensor electronics on a hardware chip to facilitate wireless communications.

[0117] Figure 10 provides a representation of a sensor system 1000 which includes a glucose sensor (as previously described), as well as sensor electronics, positioned on a hardware chip. The glucose sensor includes a proximal portion connected to the sensor electronics and a distal portion that is positioned under skin and sense a glucose level in a bodily fluid of a user during use.

[0118] The sensor electronics may include a transceiver for wirelessly transmitting advertisements for initiating a communication session with a reader, as well as data packets with data indicative of the glucose level to a reader according to a wireless communication protocol such as Bluetooth. The sensor electronics may also include a processor and memory in electrical communication with the glucose sensor and the transceiver. The sensor electronics may also include other components, such as traces for facilitating the electrical communications between the electrical components, an antenna for transmitting and receiving signals, as well as the glucose sensor, battery and other components described herein.

[0119] The sensor electronics are mounted to a hardware chip. The sensor system (although not shown) may be encapsulated within a protective housing during use and which may be affixed to the body of a user.

[0120] Figure 11 shows a related sensor system 1100, in which many or all of the sensor electronics are encapsulated within a potting material. There are various types of potting materials (e.g., silicone, polyurethane, epoxy, other materials) that may be used to protect the sensor electronics and that are used in conventional systems.

[0121] Unfortunately, the potting materials can create signal interference with the antenna and can attenuate the signals in a manner that negatively impacts the transmission of the advertisements and sensor data packets described above. This can make it difficult, in some instances, for the sensor to establish a communication session with the reader.

[0122] Disclosed embodiments provide some alternative configurations for positioning the antenna at least partially outside of the potting material and / or on an opposing side of thehardware chip from the other electrical components. This can help reduce interference caused by the electrical components and potting material.

[0123] Figure 12, for example, illustrates a sensor system 1200 in which the antenna is at least partially exposed outside of the potting material that is encompassing other sensor electronics of the sensor system.

[0124] Figure 13 illustrates another example of a sensor system 1300 in which the antenna is positioned on an opposite and second side of a hardware chip from the other sensor electronics that are positioned on a first side of the hardware chip. In this embodiment, the antenna is also positioned outside of the potting material.

[0125] In an alternative embodiment, not shown, a same or different potting material is used to cover and protect the exposed antenna of sensor system 1200 or sensor system 1300, but which does not cause as much signal interference as the potting material covering the other sensor electronics. For instance, a thin layer of a polyurethane protective spray may be used, which is thinner and less signal interfering than a silicone layer used to encompass the other sensor electronics.Example Computer / Computer systems

[0126] Attention will now be directed to Figure 14 which illustrates an example computer system 1900 that may include and / or be used to perform any of the operations described herein. For instance, computer system 1400 can implement any of the services described herein.

[0127] Computer system 1400 may take various different forms. For example, computer system 1400 may be embodied as a tablet, a desktop, a laptop, a mobile device, or a standalone device, such as those described throughout this disclosure. Computer system 1400 may also be a distributed system that includes one or more connected computing components / devices that are in communication with computer system 1400.

[0128] In its most basic configuration, computer system 1400 includes various different components. Figure 14 shows that computer system 1400 includes a processor system 1405 that includes one or more processors (aka a "hardware processing unit") and a storage system 1410.

[0129] Regarding the processor(s) of the processor system 1905, it will be appreciated that the functionality described herein can be performed, at least in part, by one or more hardware logic components. For example, and without limitation, illustrative types of hardware logic components / processors that can be used include Field-Programmable Gate Arrays ("FPGA"), Program-Specific or Application-Specific Integrated Circuits ("ASIC"), Program-Specific StandardProducts ("ASSP"), System-On-A-Chip Systems ("SOC"), Complex Programmable Logic Devices ("CPLD"), Central Processing Units ("CPU"), Graphical Processing Units ("GPU"), or any othertype of programmable hardware.

[0130] As used herein, the terms "executable module," "executable component," "component," "module," "service," or "engine" can refer to hardware processing units or to software objects, routines, or methods that may be executed on computer system 1400. The different components, modules, engines, and services described herein may be implemented as objects or processors that execute on computer system 1400 (e.g. as separate threads).

[0131] Storage system 1410 may be physical system memory, which may be volatile, nonvolatile, or some combination of the two. The term "memory" may also be used herein to refer to non-volatile mass storage such as physical storage media. If computer system 1400 is distributed, the processing, memory, and / or storage capability may be distributed as well.

[0132] Storage system 1410 is shown as including executable instructions 1415. The executable instructions 1415 represent instructions that are executable by the processor(s) of the processor system 1405 to perform the disclosed operations, such as those described in the various methods.

[0133] The disclosed embodiments may comprise or utilize a special-purpose or general- purpose computer including computer hardware, such as, for example, one or more processors and system memory, as discussed in greater detail below. Embodiments also include physical and other computer-readable media for carrying or storing computer-executable instructions and / or data structures. Such computer-readable media can be any available media that can be accessed by a general-purpose or special-purpose computer system. Computer-readable media that store computer-executable instructions in the form of data are "physical computer storage media" or a "hardware storage device." Furthermore, computer-readable storage media, which includes physical computer storage media and hardware storage devices, exclude signals, carrier waves, and propagating signals. On the other hand, computer-readable media that carry computer-executable instructions are "transmission media" and include signals, carrier waves, and propagating signals. Thus, by way of example and not limitation, the current embodiments can comprise at least two distinctly different kinds of computer-readable media: computer storage media and transmission media.

[0134] Computer storage media (aka "hardware storage device") are computer-readable hardware storage devices, such as RAM, ROM, EEPROM, CD-ROM, solid state drives ("SSD") that are based on RAM, Flash memory, phase-change memory ("PCM"), or other types of memory,or other optical disk storage, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium that can be used to store desired program code means in the form of computerexecutable instructions, data, or data structures and that can be accessed by a general-purpose or special-purpose computer.

[0135] Computer system 1400 may also be connected (via a wired or wireless connection) to external sensors (e.g., one or more remote cameras) or devices via a network 1420. For example, computer system 1400 can communicate with any number of devices or cloud services to obtain or process data. In some cases, network 1420 may itself be a cloud network. Furthermore, computer system 1400 may also be connected through one or more wired or wireless networks to remote / separate computer systems(s) that are configured to perform any of the processes described with regard to computer system 1400.

[0136] A "network," like network 1420, is defined as one or more data links and / or data switches that enable the transport of electronic data between computer systems, modules, and / or other electronic devices. When information is transferred, or provided, over a network (either hardwired, wireless, or a combination of hardwired and wireless) to a computer, the computer properly views the connection as a transmission medium. Computer system 1900 will include one or more communication channels that are used to communicate with the network 1920. Transmissions media include a network that can be used to carry data or desired program code means in the form of computer-executable instructions or in the form of data structures. Further, these computer-executable instructions can be accessed by a general-purpose or special-purpose computer. Combinations of the above should also be included within the scope of computer-readable media.

[0137] Upon reaching various computer system components, program code means in the form of computer-executable instructions or data structures can be transferred automatically from transmission media to computer storage media (or vice versa). For example, computerexecutable instructions or data structures received over a network or data link can be buffered in RAM within a network interface module (e.g., a network interface card or "NIC") and then eventually transferred to computer system RAM and / or to less volatile computer storage media at a computer system. Thus, it should be understood that computer storage media can be included in computer system components that also (or even primarily) utilize transmission media.

[0138] Computer-executable (or computer-interpretable) instructions comprise, for example, instructions that cause a general-purpose computer, special-purpose computer, orspecial-purpose processing device to perform a certain function or group of functions. The computer-executable instructions may be, for example, binaries, intermediate format instructions such as assembly language, or even source code. Although the subject matter has been described in language specific to structural features and / or methodological acts, it is to be understood that the subject matter defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the described features or acts described above. Rather, the described features and acts are disclosed as example forms of implementing the claims.

[0139] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the embodiments may be practiced in network computing environments with many types of computer system configurations, including personal computers, desktop computers, laptop computers, message processors, hand-held devices, multi-processor systems, microprocessor-based or programmable consumer electronics, network PCs, minicomputers, mainframe computers, mobile telephones, PDAs, pagers, routers, switches, and the like. The embodiments may also be practiced in distributed system environments where local and remote computer systems that are linked (either by hardwired data links, wireless data links, or by a combination of hardwired and wireless data links) through a network each perform tasks (e.g. cloud computing, cloud services and the like). In a distributed system environment, program modules may be located in both local and remote memory storage devices.

[0140] The present invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its characteristics. The described embodiments are to be considered in all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the invention is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. All changes which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope.

[0141] The present invention can also be described in accordance with the following numbered clauses.

[0142] 1. A system, comprising a glucose sensor that further comprises: a proximal portion coupled with sensor electronics; and a distal portion configured to be positioned under skin and sense a glucose level in a bodily fluid of a user; and the sensor electronics, the sensor electronics comprising: a transceiver for wirelessly transmitting data indicative of the glucose level to a reader according to a wireless communication protocol; one or more processors; and a memory configured to store instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to iteratively: detect data indicative of the glucose level from the glucose sensor; establish a wireless communication session with the reader using the wirelesscommunication protocol according to a predetermined communication interval; transmit at least a subset of the data indicative of the glucose level to the reader during the wireless communication session; and periodically evaluate and modify the predetermined communication interval based on an evaluation of dynamic signal conditions between the sensor electronics and the reader.

[0143] 2. The clause of claim 1, wherein the dynamic signal conditions comprise current conditions detected by the system while attempting to establish the wireless communication session.

[0144] 3. The clause of claim 2, wherein the current conditions comprise a current signal strength detectable between the sensor electronics and the reader.

[0145] 4. The clause of claim 2, wherein the current conditions comprise a determined location of the reader relative to the sensor electronics.

[0146] 5. The system of claim 2, wherein the dynamic signal conditions comprise historic signal conditions corresponding to one or more prior communication sessions between the sensor electronics and the reader.

[0147] 6. The system of claim 5, wherein the historic signal conditions comprise a number of communication channel changes made during a prior communication session between the sensor electronics and the reader.

[0148] 7. The system of claim 5, wherein the historic signal conditions comprise a determined signal strength of a prior communication session between the sensor electronics and the reader.

[0149] 8. The system of claim 5, wherein the detecting and transmitting of the data indicative of the glucose level to the reader includes selecting a subset of the data indicative of the glucose level to be transmitted from the new data indicative of the glucose level, the selection of the subset being based on the dynamic signal conditions between the sensor electronics and the reader.

[0150] 9. The system of claim 8, wherein the dynamic signal conditions comprise ambient noise.

[0151] 10. The system of claim 8, wherein the dynamic signal conditions comprise body attenuation of a user.

[0152] 11. The system of claim 1, wherein the glucose sensor comprises a transcutaneous glucose sensor, wherein the distal portion of the glucose sensor is configured to be implanted in a subcutaneous layer of the user.

[0153] 12. A system, comprising: a glucose sensor comprising a proximal portion coupled with sensor electronics and a distal portion configured to be positioned under skin and sense a glucose level in a bodily fluid of a user; and the sensor electronics, the sensor electronics comprising: a transceiver for wirelessly transmitting data indicative of the glucose level to a reader according to a wireless communication protocol; one or more processors; and a memory configured to store instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to iteratively: obtain data indicative of the glucose level from the on- body glucose sensor; establish wireless communication session with the reader using the wireless communication protocol according to a predetermined communication interval; transmit the glucose sensor data to the reader during the wireless communication session; and priorto endingthe wireless communication session evaluate dynamic signal conditions between the sensor electronics and the reader to determine whether to extend the wireless communication session or to, alternatively, terminate the wireless communication session.

[0154] 13. The system of claim 12, wherein the determination whether to extend the wireless communication session or to, alternatively, terminate the wireless communication session is based on a determined cost associated with maintaining the wireless communication session relative to a determined cost associated with establishing a new communication session between the system and the reader in an environment experiencing the dynamic signal conditions.

[0155] 14. The system of claim 13, wherein the dynamic signal conditions include a signal strength detected between the system and the reader.

[0156] 15. The system of claim 13, wherein the dynamic signal conditions include ambient signal interference.

[0157] 16. The system of claim 13, wherein the dynamic signal conditions include a duration ambient signal interference.

[0158] 17. The system of claim 13, wherein the determination whether to extend the wireless communication session or to, alternatively, terminate the wireless communication session is further based on a determined number of failed attempts to establish the wireless communication session prior to establishing the wireless communication session.

[0159] 18. The system of claim 13, wherein the determination whether to extend the wireless communication session or to, alternatively, terminate the wireless communication session is further based on a determined number of failed transmissions of the data indicative of the glucose level to the reader during the wireless communication session.

[0160] 19. The system of claim 13, wherein the determination whether to extend the wireless communication session or to, alternatively, terminate the wireless communication session is further based on a duration of time elapsed since a prior wireless communication session between the system and the reader.

[0161] 20. A system, comprising a glucose sensor that further comprises: a proximal portion coupled with sensor electronics; and a distal portion configured to be positioned under skin and sense a glucose level in a bodily fluid of a user; and the sensor electronics, the sensor electronics comprising: a transceiver for wirelessly transmitting data indicative of the glucose level to a reader according to a wireless communication protocol; one or more processors; and a memory configured to store instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to iteratively: detect data indicative of the glucose level from the on- body glucose sensor; select the reader from a plurality of different readers that are paired with the system, the selection of the reader being based on detected dynamic signal conditions between the sensor electronics and the reader; establish a wireless communication session with the reader using the wireless communication protocol according to a predetermined communication interval; and transmit the data indicative of the glucose level to the reader during the wireless communication session.

[0162] 21. The system of claim 20, wherein stored instructions are further executable by the processor system to cause the system to: prior to ending the wireless communication session evaluate the dynamic signal conditions between the system and the reader to determine whether to extend the wireless communication session or to, alternatively, terminate the wireless communication session.

[0163] 22. The system of claim 20, wherein the stored instructions are further executable by the processor system to cause the sensor electronics to instruct the reader to transmit the glucose sensor data to a different reader.

[0164] 23. The system of claim 20, wherein the dynamic signal conditions comprise current conditions detected by the sensor electronics while attempting to establish the wireless communication session.

[0165] 24. The system of claim 23, wherein the current conditions comprise a current signal strength detectable between the system and the reader.

[0166] 25. The system of claim 23, wherein the current conditions comprise a determined location of the reader relative to the system.

[0167] 26. The system of claim 20, wherein the dynamic signal conditions comprise historic signal conditions corresponding to one or more prior communication sessions between the system and the reader.

[0168] 27. The system of claim 26, wherein the historic signal conditions comprise a number of communication channel changes made during a prior communication session between the system and the reader.

[0169] 28. The system of claim 26, wherein the historic signal conditions comprise a determined signal strength of a prior communication session between the system and the reader.

[0170] 29. The system of claim 20, wherein the obtaining and transmitting of the data to the reader includes selecting a subset of the data to be transmitted, the selection of the subset of data being based on the dynamic signal conditions between the system and the reader.

[0171] 30. The system of claim 1, wherein the glucose sensor comprises a transcutaneous glucose sensor, wherein the distal portion of the glucose sensor is configured to be implanted in a subcutaneous layer of the user.

[0172] 31. A system, comprising a glucose sensor that further comprises: a proximal portion coupled with sensor electronics; and a distal portion configured to be positioned under skin and sense a glucose level in a bodily fluid of a user; and the sensor electronics, the sensor electronics comprising: a transceiver for wirelessly transmitting data indicative of the glucose level to a reader according to a wireless communication protocol; one or more processors; and a memory configured to store instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to iteratively: detect data indicative of the glucose level from the on- body glucose sensor; transmit an advertisement for establishing a wireless connection with the reader over the wireless communication protocol, the advertisement including a payload comprising the data indicative of the glucose level; and prior to establishing a wireless communication session with the reader over the wireless communication protocol, receiving an acknowledgment of the advertisement from the reader.

[0173] 32. The system of claim 31, wherein the stored instructions are further executable by the processor system to cause the system to refrain from establishing the wireless connection with the reader over wireless communication protocol in response to receiving the acknowledgment of the advertisement.

[0174] 33. The system of claim 31, wherein the stored instructions are further executable by the processor system to cause the system to obtain new data indicative of the glucose level fromthe system and to transmit the new data to the reader encapsulated within a new advertisement for establishing a wireless connection with the reader.

[0175] 34. The system of claim 31, wherein the wireless communication protocol comprises a Bluetooth communication protocol.

[0176] 35. The system of claim 34, wherein the Bluetooth communication protocol comprises Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE).

[0177] 36. The system of claim 34, wherein the Bluetooth communication protocol comprises Bluetooth 5.4.

[0178] 37. The system of claim 31, wherein the stored instructions are further executable by the processor system to cause the system to: evaluate dynamic signal conditions between the system and the reader; and subsequent to receiving the acknowledgment of the advertisement from the reader, determine whether to establish a wireless communication session with the reader or to, alternatively, refrain from establishing the wireless communication session with the reader.

[0179] 38. The system of claim 37, wherein the stored instructions are further executable by the processor system to cause the system to: establish the wireless communication session with the reader; obtain new data indicative of the glucose level during the wireless communication session; and transmit the new glucose sensor data to the reader during the wireless communication session.

[0180] 39. The system of claim 37, dynamic signal conditions comprise current conditions detectable between the system and the reader.

[0181] 40. The system of claim 39, wherein the current conditions comprise a current signal strength detectable between the system and the reader. 41. The system of claim 39, wherein the current conditions comprise a determined location of the reader relative to the system.

[0182] 42. The system of claim 37, wherein the dynamic signal conditions comprise historic signal conditions corresponding to one or more prior communication sessions between the system and the reader.

[0183] 43. The system of claim 42, wherein the historic signal conditions comprise a number of communication channel changes made during a prior communication session between the system and the reader.

[0184] 44. The system of claim 42, wherein the historic signal conditions comprise a determined signal strength of a prior communication session between the system and the reader.

[0185] 45. The system of claim 31, wherein the stored instructions are further executable by the processor system to cause the system to encrypt the data prior to transmitting the data.

[0186] 46. The system of claim 31, wherein the glucose sensor comprises a transcutaneous glucose sensor, wherein the distal portion of the glucose sensor is configured to be implanted in a subcutaneous layer of the user.

[0187] 47. A system, comprising a glucose sensor that further comprises: a proximal portion coupled with sensor electronics; and a distal portion configured to be positioned under skin and sense a glucose level in a bodily fluid of a user; and the sensor electronics, the sensor electronics comprising: a transceiver for wirelessly transmitting data indicative of the glucose level to a reader according to a wireless communication protocol; one or more processors; and a memory configured to store instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to iteratively: detect glucose level data indicative of the glucose level from the on-body glucose sensor; detect temperature sensor data indicative of a temperature of a user's body from the temperature sensor; establish a wireless communication session with the reader over the wireless communication protocol; and select a transmission power level from a plurality of different transmission power levels to use for communicating with the reader over the wireless communication protocol based on the temperature sensor data.

[0188] 48. The system of claim 47, wherein the stored instructions are further executable by the processor system to select a subset of the glucose sensor data to be transmitted to the reader during the wireless communication session based on the selected transmission power level.

[0189] 49. The system of claim 47, wherein the stored instructions are further executable by the processor system to cause the system to refrain from establishing the wireless communication session with the reader unless the temperature sensor data meets or exceeds a predetermined threshold temperature.

[0190] 50. The system of claim 47, wherein the stored instructions are further executable by the processor system to cause the system to select a first transmission power level when the temperature sensor data indicates the temperature of the user's body is within a first temperature range and a second transmission power level when the temperature sensor data indicates the temperature of the user's body is above the first temperature range.

[0191] 51. The system of claim 47, wherein the glucose sensor comprises a transcutaneous glucose sensor and a temperature sensor, wherein the distal portion of the glucose sensor is configured to be implanted in a subcutaneous layer of the user.

[0192] 52. A system, comprising: a glucose sensor that further comprises a proximal portion coupled with sensor electronics and a distal portion configured to be positioned under skin and sense a glucose level in a bodily fluid of a user; and the sensor electronics, the sensor electronics mounted to a hardware chip and comprising: a transceiver for wirelessly transmitting data indicative of the glucose level to a reader according to a wireless communication protocol; an antenna having an electrical connection with the transceiver for receiving and transmitting signals; a processor system comprising one or more hardware processors in electrical communication with the glucose sensor and transceiver; and a memory configured to store instructions that, when executed by the processor system, cause the one or more processors to iteratively: detect data indicative of the glucose level from the on-body glucose sensor; and establish a wireless communication session with the reader over the wireless communication protocol; and wherein the sensor electronics are physically mounted to a first surface of the hardware chip and wherein the antenna is physically mounted to a second surface of the hardware chip.

[0193] 53. The system of claim 52, wherein the proximal portion of the glucose sensor and the sensor electronics are enclosed within a potting material.

[0194] 54. The system of claim 53, wherein the proximal portion of the glucose sensor and at least a portion of the sensor electronics are molded within the potting material.

[0195] 55. The system of claim 54, wherein at least a portion of the antenna is exposed outside of the potting material.

[0196] 56. The system of claim 54, wherein the glucose sensor comprises a transcutaneous glucose sensor that extends beyond the potting material during use when the system is worn by a user.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A system, comprising: a glucose sensor comprising: a proximal portion coupled with sensor electronics; and a distal portion configured to be positioned under skin and sense a glucose level in a bodily fluid of a user; and the sensor electronics, the sensor electronics comprising: a transceiver for wirelessly transmitting data indicative of the glucose level to a reader according to a wireless communication protocol; one or more processors; and a memory configured to store instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to iteratively: obtain data indicative of the glucose level from the on-body glucose sensor; establish wireless communication session with the reader using the wireless communication protocol according to a predetermined communication interval; transmit the glucose sensor data to the reader during the wireless communication session; and periodically evaluate and modify the predetermined communication interval based on an evaluation of dynamic signal conditions between the sensor electronics and the reader.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the dynamic signal conditions comprise current conditions detected by the system while attempting to establish the wireless communication session.

3. The system of claim 2, wherein the current conditions comprise a current signal strength detectable between the sensor electronics and the reader.

4. The system of claim 2, wherein the current conditions comprise a determined location of the reader relative to the sensor electronics.

5. The system of claim 2, wherein the dynamic signal conditions comprise historic signal conditions corresponding to one or more prior communication sessions between the sensor electronics and the reader.

6. The system of claim 5, wherein the historic signal conditions comprise a number of communication channel changes made during a prior communication session between the sensor electronics and the reader.

7. The system of claim 5, wherein the historic signal conditions comprise a determined signal strength of a prior communication session between the sensor electronics and the reader.

8. The system of claim 5, wherein the detecting and transmitting of the data indicative of the glucose level to the reader includes selecting a subset of the data indicative of the glucose level to be transmitted from the new data indicative of the glucose level, the selection of the subset being based on the dynamic signal conditions between the sensor electronics and the reader.

9. The system of claim 8, wherein the dynamic signal conditions comprise ambient noise.

10. The system of claim 8, wherein the dynamic signal conditions comprise body attenuation of a user.

11. The system of claim 1, wherein the glucose sensor comprises a transcutaneous glucose sensor, wherein the distal portion of the glucose sensor is configured to be implanted in a subcutaneous layer of the user.

12. A system, comprising: a glucose sensor comprising: a proximal portion coupled with sensor electronics; and a distal portion configured to be positioned under skin and sense a glucose level in a bodily fluid of a user; and the sensor electronics, the sensor electronics comprising:a transceiver for wirelessly transmitting data indicative of the glucose level to a reader according to a wireless communication protocol; one or more processors; and a memory configured to store instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to iteratively: detect data indicative of the glucose level from the on-body glucose sensor; establish wireless communication session with the reader using the wireless communication protocol according to a predetermined communication interval; transmit the glucose sensor data to the reader during the wireless communication session; and prior to ending the wireless communication session evaluate dynamic signal conditions between the sensor electronics and the reader to determine whether to extend the wireless communication session or to, alternatively, terminate the wireless communication session.

13. The system of claim 12, wherein the determination whether to extend the wireless communication session or to, alternatively, terminate the wireless communication session is based on a determined cost associated with maintaining the wireless communication session relative to a determined cost associated with establishing a new communication session between the system and the reader in an environment experiencing the dynamic signal conditions.

14. The system of claim 13, wherein the dynamic signal conditions include a signal strength detected between the system and the reader.

15. The system of claim 13, wherein the dynamic signal conditions include ambient signal interference.

16. The system of claim 13, wherein the dynamic signal conditions include a duration ambient signal interference.

17. The system of claim 13, wherein the determination whether to extend the wireless communication session or to, alternatively, terminate the wireless communication session isfurther based on a determined number of failed attempts to establish the wireless communication session prior to establishing the wireless communication session.

18. The system of claim 13, wherein the determination whether to extend the wireless communication session or to, alternatively, terminate the wireless communication session is further based on a determined number of failed transmissions of the data indicative of the glucose level to the reader during the wireless communication session.

19. The system of claim 13, wherein the determination whether to extend the wireless communication session or to, alternatively, terminate the wireless communication session is further based on a duration of time elapsed since a prior wireless communication session between the system and the reader.

20. A system, comprising: a glucose sensor comprising: a proximal portion coupled with sensor electronics; and a distal portion configured to be positioned under skin and sense a glucose level in a bodily fluid of a user; and the sensor electronics, the system electronics comprising: a transceiver for wirelessly transmitting data indicative of the glucose level to a reader according to a wireless communication protocol; one or more processors; and a memory configured to store instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to iteratively: detect data indicative of the glucose level from the on-body glucose sensor; select the reader from a plurality of different readers that are paired with the system, the selection of the reader being based on detected dynamic signal conditions between the sensor electronics and the reader; establish a wireless communication session with the reader using the wireless communication protocol according to a predetermined communication interval; and transmit the data indicative of the glucose level to the reader during the wireless communication session.

21. The system of claim 20, wherein stored instructions are further executable by the processor system to cause the system to: prior to ending the wireless communication session evaluate the dynamic signal conditions between the system and the reader to determine whether to extend the wireless communication session or to, alternatively, terminate the wireless communication session.

22. The system of claim 20, wherein the stored instructions are further executable by the processor system to cause the sensor electronics to instruct the reader to transmit the glucose sensor data to a different reader.

23. The system of claim 20, wherein the dynamic signal conditions comprise current conditions detected by the sensor electronics while attempting to establish the wireless communication session.

24. The system of claim 23, wherein the current conditions comprise a current signal strength detectable between the system and the reader.

25. The system of claim 23, wherein the current conditions comprise a determined location of the reader relative to the system.

26. The system of claim 20, wherein the dynamic signal conditions comprise historic signal conditions corresponding to one or more prior communication sessions between the system and the reader.

27. The system of claim 26, wherein the historic signal conditions comprise a number of communication channel changes made during a prior communication session between the system and the reader.

28. The system of claim 26, wherein the historic signal conditions comprise a determined signal strength of a prior communication session between the system and the reader.

29. The system of claim 20, wherein the obtaining and transmitting of the data to the reader includes selecting a subset of the data to be transmitted, the selection of the subset of data being based on the dynamic signal conditions between the system and the reader.

30. The system of claim 1, wherein the glucose sensor comprises a transcutaneous glucose sensor, wherein the distal portion of the glucose sensor is configured to be implanted in a subcutaneous layer of the user.

31. A system, comprising: a glucose sensor comprising: a proximal portion coupled with sensor electronics; and a distal portion configured to be positioned under skin and sense a glucose level in a bodily fluid of a user; and the sensor electronics, the system electronics comprising: a transceiver for wirelessly transmitting data indicative of the glucose level to a reader according to a wireless communication protocol; one or more processors; and a memory configured to store instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to iteratively: detect data indicative of the glucose level from the on-body glucose sensor; transmit an advertisement for establishing a wireless connection with the reader over the wireless communication protocol, the advertisement including a payload comprising the data indicative of the glucose level; and prior to establishing a wireless communication session with the reader over the wireless communication protocol, receiving an acknowledgment of the advertisement from the reader.

32. The system of claim 31, wherein the stored instructions are further executable by the processor system to cause the system to refrain from establishing the wireless connection with the reader over wireless communication protocol in response to receiving the acknowledgment of the advertisement.

33. The system of claim 31, wherein the stored instructions are further executable by the processor system to cause the system to obtain new data indicative of the glucose level fromthe system and to transmit the new data to the reader encapsulated within a new advertisement for establishing a wireless connection with the reader.

34. The system of claim 31, wherein the wireless communication protocol comprises a Bluetooth communication protocol.

35. The system of claim 34, wherein the Bluetooth communication protocol comprises Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE).

36. The system of claim 34, wherein the Bluetooth communication protocol comprises Bluetooth 5.4.

37. The system of claim 31, wherein the stored instructions are further executable by the processor system to cause the system to: evaluate dynamic signal conditions between the system and the reader; and subsequent to receiving the acknowledgment of the advertisement from the reader, determine whether to establish a wireless communication session with the reader or to, alternatively, refrain from establishing the wireless communication session with the reader.

38. The system of claim 37, wherein the stored instructions are further executable by the processor system to cause the system to: establish the wireless communication session with the reader; obtain new data indicative of the glucose level during the wireless communication session; and transmit the new glucose sensor data to the reader during the wireless communication session.

39. The system of claim 37, dynamic signal conditions comprise current conditions detectable between the system and the reader.

40. The system of claim 39, wherein the current conditions comprise a current signal strength detectable between the system and the reader.

41. The system of claim 39, wherein the current conditions comprise a determined location of the reader relative to the system.

42. The system of claim 37, wherein the dynamic signal conditions comprise historic signal conditions corresponding to one or more prior communication sessions between the system and the reader.

43. The system of claim 42, wherein the historic signal conditions comprise a number of communication channel changes made during a prior communication session between the system and the reader.

44. The system of claim 42, wherein the historic signal conditions comprise a determined signal strength of a prior communication session between the system and the reader.

45. The system of claim 31, wherein the stored instructions are further executable by the processor system to cause the system to encrypt the data prior to transmitting the data.

46. The system of claim 31, wherein the glucose sensor comprises a transcutaneous glucose sensor, wherein the distal portion of the glucose sensor is configured to be implanted in a subcutaneous layer of the user.

47. A system, comprising: a glucose sensor comprising: a proximal portion coupled with sensor electronics; and a distal portion configured to be positioned under skin and sense a glucose level in a bodily fluid of a user; the sensor electronics comprising: a transceiver for wirelessly transmitting data indicative of the glucose level to a reader according to a wireless communication protocol; one or more processors; and a memory configured to store instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to iteratively: detect glucose level data indicative of the glucose level from the glucose sensor;detect temperature sensor data indicative of a temperature of a user's body from the temperature sensor; establish a wireless communication session with the reader over the wireless communication protocol; and select a transmission power level from a plurality of different transmission power levels to use for communicating with the reader over the wireless communication protocol based on the temperature sensor data.

48. The system of claim 47, wherein the stored instructions are further executable by the processor system to select a subset of the glucose sensor data to be transmitted to the reader during the wireless communication session based on the selected transmission power level.

49. The system of claim 47, wherein the stored instructions are further executable by the processor system to cause the system to refrain from establishing the wireless communication session with the reader unless the temperature sensor data meets or exceeds a predetermined threshold temperature.

50. The system of claim 47, wherein the stored instructions are further executable by the processor system to cause the system to select a first transmission power level when the temperature sensor data indicates the temperature of the user's body is within a first temperature range and a second transmission power level when the temperature sensor data indicates the temperature of the user's body is above the first temperature range.

51. The system of claim 47, wherein the glucose sensor comprises a transcutaneous glucose sensor and a temperature sensor, wherein the distal portion of the glucose sensor is configured to be implanted in a subcutaneous layer of the user.

52. A system, comprising: a glucose sensor comprising: a proximal portion coupled with sensor electronics; and a distal portion configured to be positioned under skin and sense a glucose level in a bodily fluid of a user; and the sensor electronics mounted to a hardware chip and comprising:a transceiver for wirelessly transmitting data indicative of the glucose level to a reader according to a wireless communication protocol; an antenna having an electrical connection with the transceiver for receiving and transmitting signals; a processor system comprising one or more hardware processors in electrical communication with the glucose sensor and transceiver; and a memory configured to store instructions that, when executed by the processor system, cause the one or more processors to iteratively: detect data indicative of the glucose level from the on-body glucose sensor; and establishing a wireless communication session with the reader over the wireless communication protocol; and wherein the sensor electronics are physically mounted to a first surface of the hardware chip and wherein the antenna is physically mounted to a second surface of the hardware chip.

53. The system of claim 52, wherein the proximal portion of the glucose sensor and the sensor electronics are enclosed within a potting material.

54. The system of claim 53, wherein the proximal portion of the glucose sensor and at least a portion of the sensor electronics are molded within the potting material.

55. The system of claim 54, wherein at least a portion of the antenna is exposed outside of the potting material.

56. The system of claim 54, wherein the glucose sensor comprises a transcutaneous glucose sensor that extends beyond the potting material during use when the system is worn by a user.

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