In-toilet urine test device

Abstract

An in-toilet urine testing device may include a first pad. A device may include a second pad comprising a first indicator of a physiological parameter. A device may include a pivot connecting the first pad to the second pad. A device may include a bar configured to extend through a cavity in the pivot from a first side of a water closet to a second side of the water closet, wherein the bar is configured to couple to the water closet at each of the first and second sides of the water closet with a hook, wherein the in-toilet device is configured to rotate from a first position to a second position, wherein at the first position, the second pad is configured to be in a plane generally perpendicular to a toilet seat, and in the second position, the second pad is configured to be in a plane generally parallel with a toilet seat such that the fluid stream contacts the second pad in the second position.

Description

IN-TOIEET URINE TEST DEVICEBACKGROUND

[0001] This disclosure relates generally to the field of disease detection or detection of physiological parameters.

[0002] Infections are a leading cause of post-stroke hospital readmission for stroke survivors. Once a patient is discharged from the hospital, the patient’s road to recovery is long and arduous. Many disabilities or effects of the stroke may present early or may not present until days or weeks or months later. As such, patients and their caregivers and / or care partners require many resources, tools, and support in adapting to their current state, recovering after the stroke event, and connecting with their doctor, care network, and other survivors.

[0003] Urinary tract infection (UTI), pneumonias, and sepsis are major infections that can be life threatening for a stroke survivor. However, due to impairments, stroke survivors are at risk of not identifying these infections early enough to benefit from the simple and cheap treatments available. Early detection can help a stroke survivor obtain these treatments timely, preventing the infection developing into a major health issue that results in costly hospitalization. In addition, many stroke survivors have diabetes and need to regularly monitor their glucose levels. Simple, cost effective, point-of-care urine tests in the form of strips that can diagnose the presence of these infections are widely available. However, these tests are difficult for a stroke survivor to use.SUMMARY OF CERTAIN FEATURES

[0004] The in-toilet device for detecting one or more physiological parameters from a fluid stream can include: a first pad, a second pad including a first indicator of a physiological parameter, a pivot connecting the first pad to the second pad, a bar configured to extend through a cavity in the pivot from a first side of a water closet to a second side of the water closet. The bar can be configured to couple to the water closet at each of the first and second sides of the water closet with a hook wherein the in-toilet device is configured to rotate from a first position to a second position. In the first position, the second pad can be configured to be in a plane generally perpendicular to a toilet seat, and, in the second position, the secondpad can be configured to be in a plane generally parallel with a toilet seat such that the fluid stream contacts the second pad in the second position.

[0005] In some embodiments, the techniques described herein relate to a device, wherein the second pad extends non-parallel to the first pad.

[0006] In some embodiments, the techniques described herein relate to a device, wherein the second pad extends perpendicular to the first pad.

[0007] In some embodiments, the techniques described herein relate to a device, wherein the hook contacts the first and the second sides of the water closet in use.

[0008] In some embodiments, the techniques described herein relate to a device, wherein the bar is generally horizontal in use.

[0009] In some embodiments, the techniques described herein relate to a device, wherein a length of the bar is adjustable between the first side of the water closet and the second side of the water closet.

[0010] In some embodiments, the techniques described herein relate to a device, wherein the first indicator is a sensor.

[0011] In some embodiments, the techniques described herein relate to a device, wherein the in-toilet device returns to the first position after the fluid stream contacts the second pad in the second position.

[0012] In some embodiments, the techniques described herein relate to a device, wherein the first pad and the second pad include a first material.

[0013] In some embodiments, the techniques described herein relate to a device, wherein the first material is not plastic.

[0014] An apparatus for analyzing a fluid stream can include a first portion, a second portion including an indicator, a bar. The apparatus can be configured to rotate around the bar from a first position to a second position in response to the fluid stream, and the indicator can be configured to collect data from the fluid stream in the second position.

[0015] In some embodiments, the techniques described herein relate to an apparatus, wherein the indicator includes at least one test strip removably positioned in the second portion.

[0016] In some embodiments, the techniques described herein relate to an apparatus, wherein the second portion is configured to be parallel with a water closet scat in the second position.

[0017] In some embodiments, the techniques described herein relate to an apparatus, wherein the apparatus further includes a control unit capable of analyzing the data from the fluid stream.

[0018] In some embodiments, the techniques described herein relate to an apparatus, further including an attachment piece configured to secure the apparatus to a first and second side of a water closet.

[0019] In some embodiments, the techniques described herein relate to a method for analyzing a physiological parameter of a person's urine in a toilet that can include mounting an in-toilet device in a water closet, exposing the in-toilet device to a flow of urine until the intoilet device rotates from a first position to a second position, collecting data from the in-toilet device after it is exposed to the flow of urine in the second position, optionally inputting the data to a data analyzer to determine one or more physiological parameters of the person.

[0020] In some embodiments, the techniques described herein relate to a method, wherein the data analyzer is a server.

[0021] In some embodiments, the techniques described herein relate to a method, wherein the in-toilet device drives wireless signals to communicate the data to the data analyzer.

[0022] In some embodiments, the techniques described herein relate to a method, further including communicating the one or more physiological parameters of the person to a health navigator.

[0023] In some embodiments, the techniques described herein relate to a method, wherein the health navigator creates a health plan based on the one or more physiological parameters of the person.

[0024] In some embodiments, the techniques described herein relate to a urine test device. The urine test device can include a first portion that is configured to be parallel to a toilet seat in a first position, a second portion configured to be perpendicular to the toilet seat in the first position. The second portion can include an indicator, and a bar. The urine testdevice can be configured to rotate around the bar from a first position to a second position such that in the second position, the second portion is configured to be parallel to the toilet scat.

[0025] In some embodiments, the techniques described herein can relate to a urine test device wherein the first portion includes an edge configured to collect a fluid stream.

[0026] In some embodiments, the techniques described herein relate to a urine test device, wherein the collection of the fluid stream causes a weight increase in the second portion such that it causes a first rotation in the urine test device.

[0027] In some embodiments, the techniques described herein relate to a urine test device, wherein the urine test device rotates in response to a pressure from a fluid stream.

[0028] In some embodiments, the techniques described herein relate to a urine test device, wherein the second portion includes a sensor.

[0029] In some embodiments, the techniques described herein relate to a urine test device, wherein the sensor outputs data related to a person's physiological parameters.

[0030] In some embodiments, the techniques described herein relate to a urine test device, wherein the urine test device includes a counterweight such that the urine test device rotates from the second position to the first position.

[0031] In some embodiments, the techniques described herein relate to a urine test device further including a spring. The spring can be used in a variety of different ways in the rotation mechanism of the testing device 50. For example, the spring can cause a rotation or slow a rotation.

[0032] In some embodiments, the techniques described herein relate to a urine test device, wherein the second portion includes a planar member.

[0033] In some embodiments, the techniques described herein relate to an urine test device, wherein the planar member includes a first side and a second side.

[0034] In some embodiments, the techniques described herein relate to an urine test device further including a cavity space between the first side and the second side.

[0035] In some embodiments, the techniques described herein relate to an urine test device, wherein the indicator is located in the cavity space.

[0036] In some embodiments, the techniques described herein relate to an in-toilet device for detecting one or more physiological parameters from a fluid stream of a user. The device can include a water closet, the water closet including a bowl, a first side, and a secondside. In some embodiments, the device can include a first portion including a pad, wherein the pad includes a first indicator of a physiological parameter. In some embodiments, the device can include a second portion. The second portion can include a lever. In some embodiments, the device can include a mounting piece that can be configured to couple the in-toilet device to the water closet. The lever can be configured to move the in-toilet device from a first position to a second position. In the first position, the first portion can be generally positioned about the center of the bowl. In the second position, the first portion can be closer to the first side or the second side than the center of the bowl. In some embodiments, a fluid stream of the user can be configured to contact the first portion in use.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0037] The foregoing is a summary, and thus, necessarily limited in detail. The above-mentioned aspects, as well as other aspects, features, and advantages of the present technology are described below in connection with various implementations, with reference made to the accompanying drawings.

[0038] FIG. 1A illustrates a perspective view of a testing device in a first position according to one aspect of the present disclosure.

[0039] FIG. IB illustrates a perspective view of a testing device of FIG. 1A in a second position.

[0040] FIG. 2 illustrates a front view of an assembly comprising the testing device of FIG. 1A.

[0041] FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of an assembly comprising the testing device of FIG. 1A.

[0042] FIG. 4 illustrates a user utilizing an assembly comprising the testing device of FIG. 1 A with the testing device in the first position.

[0043] FIG. 5 illustrates a user utilizing an assembly comprising the testing device of FIG. IB with the testing device in the second position.

[0044] FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of an assembly comprising the testing device of FIG. 5 configured to wirelessly communicate testing data to a data analyzer.

[0045] FIG. 7 illustrates a perspective view of a testing device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0046] FIG. 8 illustrates a top view of the testing device of FIG. 7 in a first position.

[0047] FIG. 9 illustrates a top view of the testing device of FIG. 7 in a second position.

[0048] FIG. 10 illustrates a perspective view of a testing device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0049] FIG. 11 illustrates a front view of an assembly comprising the testing device of FIG. 10.

[0050] FIG. 12A illustrates a perspective view of a testing device in a first position according to the aspect of the present disclosure illustrated in FIG. 10.

[0051] FIG. 12B illustrates a perspective view of a testing device in a second position according to the aspect of the present disclosure illustrated in FIG. 10.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0052] Disclosed herein are systems and methods for detecting one or more physiological parameter(s) of a user (or a patient) utilizing the user’s urine. For example, the systems and methods can comprise a testing device configured to detect or measure one or more physiological parameter(s) of the user.

[0053] Monitoring for physiological symptoms for post-stroke patients can present some challenges to the caregivers or care partners once the patients are discharged from the hospital. Many stroke survivors have other impairments that may limit their mobility. For example, survivors may have impaired balance that makes it difficult to squat over the toilet. Some survivors may have a hemiparetic side that makes it difficult to hold a catch device that is used in typical urine analysis systems (which can often include a cup). Some survivors may have impaired bladder control that makes it difficult to time a mid-stream catch. Some survivors may have impaired vision that makes it difficult to watch the stream and successfully hold the catch device below it. Some survivors may have difficulty getting up and off the toilet or walking while holding the catch device, putting them at risk for spills and falls. Some survivors may be vulnerable to infection and do not want to be reaching into the toilet or distracted from hygiene after toileting. As a result, obtaining accurate and reliable test results from the patients’ midstream urine can pose some challenges. Typical urine analysis systems may allow for testing from the first bit of urine (which can be undesirable in some situationsto obtain accurate test data) or may be too difficult to operate for a person with physical impairments as discussed earlier.

[0054] In operation, the devices and systems described here can be used to provide indication of one or more physiological parameter(s) of the patients (e.g., detect UTI, pneumonias, sepsis, ketones, nitrates, measure glucose, uric acid, sulfur, pH, proteins etc.). In addition, the systems and methods described herein may solve a technical problem of obtaining easy and reliable test data from the patient’s mid-stream urine to enable capture of one or more physiological parameter(s). The systems and methods described herein may provide an example technical solution to a technical problem by providing an in-toilet test device for obtaining physiological parameters from the mid-stream of the patient’s urine.

[0055] FIG. 1A illustrates a perspective view of a testing device 50 in a first position A. The testing device 50 can be an in-toilet urine testing device and can comprise a first portion 51 and a second portion 61 that can be pivotally connected with pivot 72. In some embodiments, the first portion 51 and / or the second portion 61 can be a pad, such as a replaceable pad or a single-use pad. The ability to utilize a replaceable pad or a single-use pad can contribute to obtaining accurate and reliable test results from the patients and / or reduce (or prevent) contamination of urine with growing bacteria. The plane of the first portion 51 and the second portion 61 can intersect with each other to form an angle, such as 80 degrees, 85 degrees, 90 degrees, 95 degrees, smaller than 80 degrees, larger than 95 degrees, or an increment of any number smaller than 80 degrees, between 80 degrees and 95 degrees, or larger than 95 degrees. The first portion 51 can comprise a first side 55 and a second side 56. In some embodiments, the first side 55 and / or the second side 56 can include a cavity space to accommodate a test portion, such as test portion 57. In some embodiments, the first side 55 and / or the second side 56 can include a generally flat surface. In some other embodiments, the first side 55 and / or the second side 56 can include grooves, channels etc., and / or can be manufactured to have a sloped surface. For example, the second side 56 can include one or more grooves and / or channels that can direct a user’s urine to a first indicator 52 and / or a second indicator 53 and / or a third indicator 54 by, for example, gravity, capillary effect etc.

[0056] The test portion 57 can be configured to provide one or more indications of a user’s physiological parameter. As discussed above, in some embodiments, the test portion 57 can comprise a first indicator 52, a second indicator 53, a third indicator 54, and so on. Eachof the first, the second, and the third indicators 52, 53, 54 can individually and / or collectively provide information about the user’s desired physiological parameter (c.g., detect UTI, pneumonias, sepsis, ketones, nitrates, measure glucose, uric acid, sulfur, pH, proteins etc.). The user’s urine does not need to contact the entirety of the test portion 57. For example, a contact between the user’s urine and either ends (or sides) of the first indicator 52 and / or the second indicator 53 and / or the third indicator 54 can be adequate for the test portion 57 to provide information about the user’s desired physiological parameter(s). In some embodiments, the test portion 57 can be an integral component of the first portion 51. For example, the first portion 51 can comprise one or more sensors that can detect one or more physiological parameters without a need for a separate test portion 57.

[0057] The first portion 51 and the second portion 61 can be coupled together and / or with a pivot 72. The first portion 51 and the second portion 61 can be coupled to a pivot72 in a manner that can allow the first portion 51 and / or the second portion 61 to be replaceable after each use. The pivot 72 can allow the testing device 50 to rotate from a first position to a second position B. The pivot 72 can comprise a cavity 73. A bar 71 can pass through the cavity73 to form a mounting frame for the testing device 50. The bar 71 can be generally horizontal or parallel with the first surface 170 and the second surface 180.

[0058] The second portion 61 can comprise a first side 63 and a second side 64. The second portion 61 can comprise an edge 62. The edge 62 can be an extension of the second portion 61 or it can be a separate piece that can be attached separately to the second portion 61. The edge 62 can form an angle with the second portion 61.

[0059] As discussed earlier, FIG. 1A illustrates a perspective view of a testing device 50 in a first position. In the first position, the first portion 51 can generally be in an upright and / or vertical position while the second portion 61 is in a generally horizontal position.

[0060] FIG. IB illustrates a perspective view of a testing device of FIG. 1A that is rotated from a first position A to a second position B. In the second position B, the testing device 50 is rotated around the bar 71 through the pivot 72 from the first position A to the second position B. In the second position B, the first portion 51 can be in a generally horizontal position while the second portion 61 can generally be in an upright and / or vertical position.

[0061] FIG. 2 illustrates a front view of an in-toilet assembly 100 comprising the testing device 50 of FIG. 1 A. In the assembly 100, the testing device 50 is installed in a water closet 110. The water closet 110 can have a lid 111, a toilet bowl 150, a first surface 170, and a second surface 180. The toilet bowl 150 can comprise a first side 174 and a second side 175. The first surface 170 can be a plane that is generally horizontal or parallel to a seat cover 112 (shown in FIG. 3). The second surface 180 can be positioned below the testing device 50 and can be oriented in a plane that is generally horizontal and / or parallel to the seat cover 112 and the first surface 170.

[0062] The testing device 50 can comprise a frame 90. The frame 90 can provide a mechanism for mounting the testing device 50 to the water closet 110. For example, the frame 90 can be configured to suspend the testing device 50 across a bowl 150 of the water closet 110. The frame 90 can comprise a first hook 74. The first hook 74 can comprise a return leg77, an upper leg 76, and a first leg 75. In some embodiments, the return leg 77, the upper leg 76, and the first leg 75 can be manufactured as one piece and coupled together during the manufacturing process. The first leg 75 can be coupled to the bar 71. In some embodiments, the inside of the first hook 74 can have a grip or an adjustable pad (not shown) that can be configured to secure the first hook 74 in its position in the first side 174. In some embodiments, the first hook 74 can have a circular (or semicircular) extension that is extending from the bar 71 such that the circular or semicircular extension goes around the first side 174 and allows the testing device 50 to maintain its position in use. In some embodiments, the first hook 74 can have a flexible end that can be configured to fit the first side 174. Although the testing device 50 is illustrated to include a first hook 74 and a second hook 78, the testing device 50 does not need to include two contact points or two hooks to operate. In some embodiments, the testing device 50 can operate with one hook, such as the first hook 74 or the second hook78.

[0063] The frame 90 can comprise a second hook 78. The second hook 78 can comprise a second leg 79, upper leg 80, and a return leg 81. The bar 71 can connect the first leg 75 of the first hook 74 with the second leg 79 of the second hook 78. The second leg 79 can be coupled with an upper leg 80 and a return leg 81. In some embodiments, the return leg 81, the upper leg 80, and the second leg 79 can be manufactured as one piece and coupled together during the manufacturing process. In some embodiments, the inside of the secondhook 78 can have a grip or an adjustable pad (not shown) that can be configured to secure the second hook 78 in its position in the second side 175. In some embodiments, the second hook 78 can have a circular (or semicircular) extension that is extending from the bar 71 such that the circular or semicircular extension goes around the second side 175 and allows the testing device 50 to maintain its position in use. In some embodiments, the second hook 78 can have a flexible end that can be configured to fit the second side 175.

[0064] The frame 90 can be positioned in different orientations to achieve a user’s need. For example, the frame 90 can be positioned on the seat cover 112 such that the second portion 61 is extending towards the front of the water closet 110 when the testing device 50 is in the first position A as shown in FIG. 2. In another implementation (not shown), the frame 90 can be oriented so that the second portion 61 is extending towards the back of the water closet when the testing device 50 is in the first position A.

[0065] The water closet 110 can provide a mounting mechanism to support the frame 90. The upper leg 76 of the first hook 74 can rest on the first side 174 of the water closet 110. The return leg 77 can help secure the testing device 50 in its in-use position. Similarly, the upper leg 80 of the second hook 78 can rest on the second side 175 and the return leg 81 can help secure the testing device 50 in its in-use position.

[0066] FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of an assembly 100 including the testing device 50. As discussed earlier, the water closet 110 can provide a mounting mechanism to support the frame 90. The upper leg 76 of the first hook 74 can rest on the first side 174 of the water closet 110. The return leg 77 can help secure the testing device 50 in its in-use position. Similarly, the upper leg 80 of the second hook 78 can rest on the second side 175 and the return leg 81 can help secure the testing device 50 in its in-use position.

[0067] FIG. 7 illustrates a perspective view of an in-toilet assembly 200, including a testing device 250 in a first position and in-use in a water closet 210. The water closet 210 can include a variety of different types of commercially available water closets. The water closet 210 can have a first side 274 and a second side 275. In some embodiments, the testing device 250 can be positioned on the water closet 210 utilizing a mounting piece 278. The mounting piece 278 can allow the testing device 250 to be mounted on the water closet 210. In some embodiments, the mounting piece 278 can allow for the testing device 250 to be pivotally mounted on the water closet 210 such that testing device 250 can rotate (for example,in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction) when the testing device 250 is mounted on the water closet 210. In some embodiments, the mounting piece 278 is removably coupled with the water closet 210 such that the user can move and / or adjust the location of the mounting piece 278 to accommodate the user’s needs. It is noted that the testing device 250 can be mounted on either the first side 274 or a second side 275 of the water closet 210.

[0068] FIG. 8 illustrates the in-toilet assembly 200, including the testing device 250, in a first position. The testing device 250 can include a first portion 251 and a second portion 252. In some embodiments, the first portion 251 can include an offset (for example a vertical offset) and can allow the first portion 251 to be hidden under the rim portion of the water closet 210 when the testing device 250 is not in use. In some embodiments, the first portion 251 can include a pad, such as a replaceable pad or a single-use pad. As discussed above, the ability to utilize a replaceable pad or a single-use pad can contribute to obtaining accurate and reliable test results from the patients and / or reduce (or prevent) contamination of urine with growing bacteria. The second portion 252 can include a lever 271. The lever 271 can be an elongate piece and can be used as a handle to move and / or rotate the testing device 250. The second portion 252 can be coupled to the first portion 251. It is noted that in the first position illustrated in FIG. 8, the in-toilet assembly 200 is ready to be utilized by a user, and in the second position illustrated in FIG. 9, the testing device 250 is moved and / or rotated, and the in-toilet assembly 200 is in a closed position. In the second position, the first portion 251 can be hidden under the rim portion of the water closet 210 and / or the seat cover. In the second position, the user can utilize the water closet 210 in a normal manner without any interference from the testing device 250.

[0069] FIG. 10 illustrates a perspective view of a testing device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. More specifically, an assembly 300, including a testing device 350 is illustrated in an in-use configuration. A water closet 310 can provide a mounting support to support the testing device 350. A first mounting piece 378 and a second mounting piece 379 can be used to mount the testing device 350 on the water closet 310. As illustrated in FIG. 10, the testing device 350 can include a first portion 351 and a second portion 361. The first portion 351 and the second portion 361 can rotate about a bar 371. Although the water closet 310 is illustrated with a seat cover 312 in an open position, the testing device 350-I lcan be mounted on the water closet 310 when the seat cover is in any position (for example, open, close, partially close etc.)

[0070] It is noted that the particular configuration of the testing device 350 illustrated in FIG. 10 can provide several advantages. For example, the particular configuration illustrated in FIG. 10 can allow for vertical rotation of the first portion 351 and the second portion 361 about the bar 371 or about a vertical plane, which can allow for higher compatibility with different types of water closets.

[0071] FIG. 11 illustrates a front view of the in-toilet assembly 300 including the testing device 350 of FIG. 10 in a first position. In some embodiments, when the testing device 350 is in the first position, the first portion 351 and the second portion 361 are generally orientated in a horizontal plane. For example, the first portion 351 and the second portion 361 can be configured so that the plane of each one is parallel with a generally horizontal plane and / or parallel with the surface of the floor in which the water closet 310 is mounted on.

[0072] FIG. 12A and FIG. 12B illustrate a perspective view of the testing device350 in a first position and a second position. As discussed earlier, the testing device 350 can be an in-toilet urine testing device and can include the first portion 351 and the second portion 361 that can be configured to rotate about the bar 371. In some embodiments, the first portion351 and / or the second portion 361 can be a pad, such as a replaceable pad or a single-use pad. The testing device 350 can be configured such that the plane of the first portion 351 and the second portion 361 can be generally horizontal with one another. In some other embodiments, the plane of the first portion 351 and the second portion 361 can offset from each other with an offset angle of about 3 degrees or about 5 degrees or about 7 degrees or an increment of any number smaller than about 3 degrees or larger than about 7 degrees. The first portion 351 can include a first side 355 and a second side 356 positioned opposite the first side 355. In some embodiments, the first side 355 and / or the second side 356 can include a cavity space to accommodate a test portion, such as test portion 357. In some embodiments, the first side 355 and / or the second side 356 can include a generally flat surface. In some other embodiments, the first side 355 and / or the second side 356 can include grooves, channels etc., and / or can be manufactured to have a sloped surface. For example, the second side 356 can include one or more grooves and / or channels that can direct a user’s urine to a first indicator 352 and / or a second indicator 353 and / or a third indicator 354 by, for example, gravity, capillary effect etc.In some embodiments, the testing device 350 can include any number of indicators as required to accommodate a user’ s need.Operation

[0073] FIG. 4 illustrates the assembly 100 in use. In some embodiments, a user 30 can utilize the testing device 50 by simply placing the testing device 50 on the water closet 110. The frame 90 can help the user 30 position the testing device 50 in its desired location. In some embodiments, the bar 71 can be an adjustable bar which can allow the user 30 to adjust the position of the testing device 50 relative to the water closet 110. For example, the bar 71 can be reduced in length so that the user 30 can place the testing device 50 closer to the front or back portion of the seat cover 112, or the user 30 can extend the length of the bar 71 so that the testing device 50 is positioned closer to the center of the seat cover 112.

[0074] Still referring to FIG. 4, the testing device 50 can be seen in a first position A. In the first position A, the first portion 51 can be in an upright and / or vertical position and the second portion 61 can be approximately parallel to a horizontal plane along a first surface 170. In some embodiments, the user 30 can utilize the testing device 50 by subjecting the second portion 61 to a pressure from the user 30’ s urine. In some embodiments, the user 30 can urinate on the second portion 61 while sitting on the water closet 110. In some other embodiments, the user 30 can urinate on the second portion 61 without sitting on the water closet 110. For example, the user 30 can urinate on the second portion 61 while standing.

[0075] The pressure from the user 30’ s urine can initiate an internal mechanism for the testing device 50 to move from a first portion A (shown in FIG. 4) to a second position B (shown in FIG. 5). In some embodiments, the internal mechanism can be a result of an increase in the weight of the second portion 61. For example, the edge 62 can help the second portion 61 to retain the user’ s urine which can in turn result in a clockwise rotational movement from the first position A to the second position B due to the additional gravitational force resulted from the increase weight of the second portion. In some embodiments, the internal mechanism can be an automated mechanism which can detect the present of the user’s urine and can be configured to rotate clockwise by a desirable radial angle within a desirable period. For example, in some embodiments, the testing device 50 can rotate by about 90 degrees in about 0.5 seconds, or it can rotate by about 110 degrees in about 0.3 seconds, or it can rotate by about 80 degrees within about 0.6 seconds, or it can rotate by any other desirable angle at any otherdesirable speed to accommodate a user’s need. In some embodiments, the testing device 50 can comprise a spring (not shown). The spring can be used in a variety of different ways in the rotation mechanism of the testing device 50. For example, the spring can cause a rotation or slow a rotation.

[0076] It is noted that the movement of the testing device 50 from the first position A to the second position B can have a variety of advantages. For example, in some implementations, it is more desirable to collect midstream specimen of urine. The first bit of urine (which can be less desirable in some applications) can contact the first portion 51 to initiate the rotation of the testing device 50 while the desirable test data can be collected in the second portion 61 from the midstream specimen of the user’s urine.

[0077] FIG. 5 illustrates a user 30 utilizing an assembly 100 comprising the testing device 50, with the testing device in the second position B. As discussed earlier, once the first portion 51 is subject to the pressure from the user’s urine, the testing device 50 can rotate from the first position A to a second position B. In the second position B, the second portion 61 of the testing device 50 is subject to the user’s urine. In some embodiments, the second portion 61 can comprise a test portion 57. The test portion 57 can be configured to detect one or more physiological parameter of the user 30 (e.g., detect UTI, pneumonias, sepsis, ketones, nitrates, measure glucose, uric acid, sulfur, pH, proteins etc.). In some embodiments, the test portion 57 can collect the user’s urine. The user can take a sample of the urine collected to a desired laboratory for testing and / or obtain the test results relatively instant.

[0078] The test portion 57 can comprise one or a plurality of indicators, such as the first indicator 52, the second indicator 53, and the third indicator 54. The indicators can provide an indication in response to detection of a certain element, such as a certain bacterium or a certain component in the user’s urine. For example, one or more indicators can change color in response to the presence of a certain element and / or component in the user’s urine. In some other embodiments, the indicators can provide a digital indication of the detected bacterium and / or the detected component in the user’s urine. In some embodiments, the test portion 57 is disposable. The user can change the test portion 57 after each use. In some embodiments, the user does not need to change the test portion 57. For example, the test portion 57 can reset its data, and the user can clean the test portion 57 after each use through conventional methods.For example, the user can pour water and / or a solvent on the surface of the first portion 51 or the second portion 61 after each use.

[0079] FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of an assembly comprising the testing device 50 that can be configured to wirelessly communicate testing data to a data analyzer. In some embodiments, the testing device 50 can be configured to communicate test data to a data analyzer such as a server 410, a tablet 430, or a mobile device 420. The testing device 50 can communicate the test data through a variety of means. For example, the testing device 50 can use wireless communication 400 (e.g., Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, etc.) to communicate the test data to the data analyzer. The data analyzer can analyze the test data and provide the user with a variety of information. In some embodiments, the data analyzer can be a healthcare professional (e.g., a navigator, physician, nurse practitioner, care giver, etc.). The U.S. Application No. 17 / 822412 filed on 08 / 25 / 2022 shows examples of post health event care utilizing the data analyzer or navigator. The user can manually send the test data (e.g., by taking a photo from the testing device 50 and emailing the said result and / or uploading the photo through a mobile application) to the healthcare professional who can then provide the user with customized care plan. The testing device 50 may also include markings (for example on the first portion 51 or the second portion 61) to show the user what to take a picture of for their clinician(s) or include visual guide(s), such as a result chart, to help the user interpret what they see in their test results. Consequently, the test device 50 can function manually and provide a simple mechanism for the user to analyze their test results with or without the need to use any advanced technology. In some embodiments, a control unit (not shown) capable of analyzing the data from the fluid stream can be mounted to the side of the water closet or be positioned in any other desirable location in the assembly 100. The control unit can be configured to provide real time test results or communicate the test results to another data analyzer (such as server 410, mobile device 420, or tablet 430).

[0080] As discussed above, figures 7-9 illustrate another aspect of the present disclosure. In the first position the testing device 250 is in a ready position. The user can utilize the testing device 250 by subjecting the first portion 251 to a pressure from the user’s urine. In some embodiments, the user can urinate on the first portion 251 while sitting on the water closet 210. In some other embodiments, the user can urinate on the first portion 251 without sitting on the water closet 210. For example, the user can urinate on the first portion 251 whilestanding. In some embodiments, the first portion 251 can include a test portion. The test portion included in the first portion 251 can be similar to the test portion 57 disclosed earlier with respect to the in-toilet assembly 100. The test portion can be configured to detect one or more physiological parameter of the user (e.g., detect UTI, pneumonias, sepsis, ketones, nitrates, measure glucose, uric acid, sulfur, pH, proteins etc.). In some embodiments, the test portion can collect the user’ s urine. The user can take a sample of the urine collected to a desired laboratory for testing and / or obtain the test results relatively instant. In some embodiments, the testing device 250 can include result charts to help the user interpret what they see in their test results.

[0081] FIG. 9 illustrates an embodiment of the present disclosure in a second position. Once the user completes testing their urine, the user can utilize their hand(s) to move and / or rotate the lever 271 such that the first portion 251 can be at least partially hidden under the rim portion of water closet 210 or under the seat cover. The testing device 250 can be manufactured and coupled at the mounting piece 278 such that an impaired user can easily operate the lever 271 and move the testing device 250 in a direction that they desire. Once the testing device 250 is moved to the second position, the user can utilize the water closet 210 in a usual manner without interference from the testing device 250. The lever 271 can be moved before or after the user utilizes the testing device 250. For example, the lever 271 can be moved before or after the user sits on the water closet 210. It is noted that the testing device 250 can incorporate any and all features of the testing device 50 disclosed earlier or the testing device 350.

[0082] Referring now to the operation of the testing device 350, at the first position illustrated in FIG. 10 (and FIG. 12A), the testing device 350 is ready to be utilized by the user. The user can begin urinating on the second portion 361. The pressure from the user’s urine can result in rotation of the testing device 350 about the bar 371 from a first position shown in FIG. 12A to the second position shown in FIG. 12B. In the second position, the testing device 350 is rotated such that the user’s urine will be in contact with the first portion 351, which includes the test portion 357. This particular arrangement can allow the initial stage of the urination (which can be undesirable) to be used to rotate the testing device 350 in the first position. Subsequently, the user’s midstream is collected at the test portion 357 in the second position after the testing device 350 is rotated. Although the embodiments of the assembly 300 illustrate a clockwise rotation of the testing device 350, the testing device 350 can be manufactured toallow for clockwise or counterclockwise rotation depending on the user’s need. It is noted that the testing device 350 can incorporate any and all features of the testing device 50 disclosed earlier or the testing device 250 discussed earlier.Summary

[0083] Several illustrative examples of the in-toilet urine test device have been disclosed. Although this disclosure has been described in terms of certain illustrative examples and uses, other examples and other uses, including examples and uses which do not provide all of the features and advantages set forth herein, are also within the scope of this disclosure. Components, elements, features, acts, or steps can be arranged or performed differently than described and components, elements, features, acts, or steps can be combined, merged, added, or left out in various examples. All possible combinations and subcombinations of elements and components described herein are intended to be included in this disclosure. No single feature or group of features is necessary or indispensable.

[0084] Conditional language, such as ‘‘can,” “could,” “might,” or “may,” unless specifically stated otherwise, or otherwise understood within the context as used, is generally intended to convey that certain embodiments include, while other embodiments do not include, certain features, elements, and / or steps. Thus, such conditional language is not generally intended to imply that features, elements, and / or steps are in any way required for one or more embodiments.

[0085] The terms “comprising,” “including,” “having,” and the like are synonymous and are used inclusively, in an open-ended fashion, and do not exclude additional elements, features, acts, operations, and so forth. Also, the term “or” is used in its inclusive sense (and not in its exclusive sense) so that when used, for example, to connect a list of elements, the term “or” means one, some, or all of the elements in the list.

[0086] The terms “about” and “substantially” as used herein represent an amount close to the stated amount that still performs a desired function or achieves a desired result. For example, in some but not all embodiments, as the context may permit, the terms “about” and “substantially” may refer to an amount that is within 10% of the stated amount.

[0087] The term “generally” as used herein represents a value, amount, or characteristic that predominantly includes or tends toward a particular value, amount, or characteristic. As an example, in certain embodiments, as the context may permit, the term“generally perpendicular” can refer to something that departs from exactly perpendicular by less than or equal to 20 degrees.

[0088] The ranges disclosed herein also encompass any and all overlap, sub-ranges, and combinations thereof. Language such as “up to,” “at least,” “greater than,” “less than,” “between” and the like includes the number recited. Numbers preceded by a term such as “about” or “approximately” include the recited numbers. For example, “about 5 mm” includes “5 mm.”

[0089] For expository purposes, the term “horizontal” as used herein is defined as a plane parallel to the plane or surface of the floor of the area in which the in-toilet urine testing device described is used or the method being described is performed, regardless of its orientation. The term “floor” can be interchanged with the term “ground.” The term “vertical” refers to a direction perpendicular to the horizontal as just defined. Terms such as “above,” “below,” “bottom,” “top,” “side,” “higher,” “lower,” “upper,” “over,” and “under,” are defined with respect to the horizontal plane.

[0090] As used herein, the relative terms “front” and “rear” shall be defined from the perspective of the user utilizing the in-toilet testing device assembly. Thus, front refers to the direction of the water closet that is closest to the nose of the water closet.

[0091] Although certain embodiments and examples have been described herein, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that many aspects of the in-toilet urine testing device shown and described in the present disclosure may be differently combined and / or modified to form still further embodiments or acceptable examples. All such modifications and variations are intended to be included herein within the scope of this disclosure. A wide variety of designs and approaches are contemplated. No feature, structure, or step disclosed herein is essential or indispensable.

[0092] For purposes of this disclosure, certain aspects, advantages, and novel features are described herein. It is to be understood that not necessarily all such advantages may be achieved in accordance with any particular embodiment. Thus, for example, those skilled in the art will recognize that the disclosure may be embodied or carried out in a manner that achieves one advantage or a group of advantages as taught herein without necessarily achieving other advantages as may be taught or suggested herein.

[0093] Moreover, while illustrative embodiments have been described herein, the scope of any and all embodiments having equivalent elements, modifications, omissions, combinations (e.g., of aspects across various embodiments), adaptations and / or alterations as would be appreciated by those in the art based on the present disclosure. The limitations in the claims are to be interpreted broadly based on the language employed in the claims and not limited to the examples described in the present specification or during the prosecution of the application, which examples are to be construed as non-exclusive. Further, the actions of the disclosed processes and methods may be modified in any manner, including by reordering actions and / or inserting additional actions and / or deleting actions. It is intended, therefore, that the specification and examples be considered as illustrative only, with a true scope and spirit being indicated by the claims and their full scope of equivalents.

Claims

WHAT TS CLAIMED TS:

1. An in-toilct device for analyzing a fluid stream to detect one or more physiological parameters, the device comprising: a first portion; a second portion comprising an indicator; and a bar; wherein the device is configured to rotate around the bar from a first position to a second position in response to the fluid stream, and the indicator is configured to collect data from the fluid stream in the second position.

2. The device of Claim 1, wherein the indicator comprises at least one test strip removably positioned in the second portion.

3. The device of Claim 1, wherein the second portion is configured to be parallel with a water closet seat in the second position.

4. The device of Claim 1, wherein the device further comprises a control unit capable of analyzing the data from the fluid stream.

5. The device of Claim 1, further comprising an attachment piece configured to secure the device to a first side of a water closet and / or a second side of the water closet.

6. The device of Claim 5, wherein a length of the bar is adjustable between the first side of the water closet and the second side of the water closet.

7. The device of Claim 1, comprising a pivot coupling the first portion to the second portion.

8. The device of Claim 7, wherein the bar is configured to extend through a cavity in the pivot from a first side of a water closet to a second side of the water closet9. The device of Claim 1, wherein the bar is configured to couple to a water closet at a first and / or second side of the water closet with a hook.

10. The device of Claim 1, wherein the second portion extends perpendicular to the first portion.

11. The device of Claim 1 , wherein the bar extends from either a first side of a water closet or a second side of the water closet to about a center of a water closet bowl in use.

12. The device of Claim 1, wherein the indicator is a sensor configured to output data related to a person’s physiological parameters.

13. The device of Claim 1 , wherein the first portion comprises an edge configured to collect the fluid stream.

14. The device of Claim 1, wherein a length of the bar is adjustable between a first side of a water closet and a second side of the water closet.

15. The device of Claim 1, wherein the second portion comprises a planar member having a first side, a second side, and a cavity space between the first side and the second side, the cavity space configured to receive the indicator.

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