Devices and methods for measuring physiological parameters

Abstract

A device and method for measuring one or more physiological parameters of a user. The device includes a housing and at least one sensor for measuring the one or more physiological parameters. The housing includes an alignment end having an edge that is dimensionally complementary to a body landmark, a pivot end, a gripping surface, and a body-contacting surface. The at least one sensor includes a first sensor positioned on the body-contacting surface for measuring a first physiological parameter and arranged such that the first sensor becomes positioned within a threshold distance of a first sensor target location when the device is pivoted around the pivot end to point the alignment end towards one shoulder of the user. Each of the at least one sensor measures one of the one or more physiological parameters when the first sensor becomes positioned within the threshold distance of the first sensor target location.

Description

DEVICES AND METHODS FOR MEASURING PHYSIOLOGICAL PARAMETERSFIELD

[0001] The embodiments described herein relate to devices and associated methods for measuring physiological parameters of a user.BACKGROUND

[0002] Handheld medical devices can be used for measuring one or more physiological parameters of a person. Such handheld medical devices can include one or more sensors for measuring the physiological parameters of the person. Some handheld medical devices can require reconfiguration of components of the handheld medical device in order to measure the physiological parameters of the person. Other handheld medical devices can require significant repositioning of the handheld medical device relative to the person’s body in order to measure the physiological parameters of the person. In many cases, the person using a handheld medical device to measure one or more physiological parameters is an elderly person and / or a person experiencing one or more disease states that can reduce the person’s mobility and / or cognitive abilities, for example.

[0003] The positioning of a handheld medical device relative to a person’s body can be important for obtaining accurate measurements of physiological parameters of the person. Some handheld medical devices require a trained healthcare professional to operate the device to achieve proper positioning of the device. Some handheld medical devices include a mechanism for providing positioning guidance to achieve proper positioning of the device. Such positioning guidance can be, for example, in the form of directional cues such as displaying an arrow in the direction that the handheld medical device should be moved.SUMMARY

[0004] The various embodiments described herein generally relate to devices and associated methods for measuring one or more physiological parameters of a user. The device can include a housing and at least one sensor for measuring the one or more physiological parameters. The housing includes an alignment end, a pivot end positionedopposite the alignment end, a gripping surface extending between the alignment end and the pivot end and shaped to be gripped by a hand of the user, and a body-contacting surface extending between the alignment end and the pivot end and positioned opposite the gripping surface. The alignment end includes an edge that is dimensionally complementary to a body landmark of the user’s chest for positioning the alignment end in alignment with the body landmark. The at least one sensor includes a first sensor positioned on the body-contacting surface for measuring a first physiological parameter when placed in contact with the user’s chest. The first sensor is arranged on the body-contacting surface such that the first sensor becomes positioned within a threshold distance of a first sensor target location when the device is pivoted around the pivot end to point the alignment end towards one shoulder of the user. The first sensor target location corresponds to a location on the user’s body at which the first physiological parameter is preferably measured. Each of the at least one sensor measures one of the one or more physiological parameters when the first sensor becomes positioned within the threshold distance of the first sensor target location.

[0005] In at least one embodiment, the at least one sensor includes a second sensor positioned on the body-contacting surface for measuring a second physiological parameter when placed in contact with the user’s chest. The second sensor is arranged on the bodycontacting surface such that the second sensor is positioned within the threshold distance of a second sensor target location when the body-contacting surface is placed against the user’s chest and the edge of the alignment end is in alignment with the body landmark. The second sensor is further arranged on the body-contacting surface such that the second sensor remains within the threshold distance of the second sensor target location when the device is pivoted around the pivot end to point the alignment end towards the one shoulder of the user. The second sensor target location corresponds to a location on the user’s body at which the second physiological parameter is preferably measured.

[0006] In at least one embodiment, the second sensor target location includes the user’s sternum body.

[0007] In at least one embodiment, the second sensor includes a body-contacting surface photoplethysmography sensor.

[0008] In at least one embodiment, the first sensor is further arranged on the bodycontacting surface such that the first sensor becomes positioned within the threshold distance of a secondary first sensor target location when the device is pivoted around the pivot end to point the alignment end towards a left side of the user’s body and a second edge of the housing is aligned with a second body landmark of the user’s chest.

[0009] In at least one embodiment, the housing further includes a finger-contacting surface extending between the alignment end and the pivot end and positioned adjacent to the gripping surface and the body-contacting surface. The at least one sensor includes a force-measuring component positioned on the finger-contacting surface for measuring a force generated when the user grips the device.

[0010] In at least one embodiment, the housing further includes a thumb-contacting surface extending between the alignment end and the pivot end and positioned adjacent to the gripping surface and the body-contacting surface. The at least one sensor includes a thumb-contacting surface photoplethysmography sensor.

[0011] In at least one embodiment, the body landmark includes the user’s suprasternal notch.

[0012] In at least one embodiment, the first sensor target location includes a second intercostal space of the user.

[0013] In at least one embodiment, the first sensor includes a digital stethoscope.

[0014] In at least one embodiment, the at least one sensor includes one or more of electrocardiogram electrodes, an accelerometer, and a temperature sensor.

[0015] In at least one embodiment, the device further includes a visual indicator to provide the user with pivoting guidance for pointing the alignment end towards the one shoulder of the user.

[0016] In at least one embodiment, the visual indicator includes at least one of an LED pointer and a guiding marker positioned on the housing.

[0017] In at least one embodiment, the threshold distance is 1 inch.

[0018] In another broad aspect, the method can involve gripping the device in a hand of the user, the device including a housing and at least one sensor for measuring the one ormore physiological parameters, the housing including an alignment end having an edge that is dimensionally complementary to a body landmark of the user’s chest for positioning the alignment end in alignment with the body landmark, a pivot end positioned opposite the alignment end, a gripping surface extending between the alignment end and the pivot end and shaped to be gripped by the hand of the user, and a body-contacting surface extending between the alignment end and the pivot end and positioned opposite the gripping surface; placing the body-contacting surface against the user’s chest; aligning the edge of the alignment end with the body landmark; pivoting the device around the pivot end to point the alignment end towards one shoulder of the user, the pivoting causing a first sensor of the at least one sensor to become positioned within a threshold distance of a first sensor target location; and measuring the one or more physiological parameters with the at least one sensor when the first sensor is positioned within the threshold distance of the first sensor target location. The first sensor is positioned on the body-contacting surface for measuring a first physiological parameter when placed in contact with the user’s chest. The first sensor target location corresponds to a location on the user’s body at which the first physiological parameter is preferably measured.

[0019] In at least one embodiment, the at least one sensor includes a second sensor positioned on the body-contacting surface for measuring a second physiological parameter when placed in contact with the user’s chest. The second sensor is arranged on the bodycontacting surface such that the second sensor is positioned within the threshold distance of a second sensor target location when the body-contacting surface is placed against the user’s chest and the edge of the alignment end is in alignment with the body landmark. The second sensor is further arranged on the body-contacting surface such that the second sensor remains within the threshold distance of the second sensor target location when the device is pivoted around the pivot end to point the alignment end towards the one shoulder of the user. The second sensor target location corresponds to a location on the user’s body at which the second physiological parameter is preferably measured.

[0020] In at least one embodiment, the second sensor target location includes the user’s sternum body.

[0021] In at least one embodiment, the second sensor includes a body-contacting surface photoplethysmography sensor.

[0022] In at least one embodiment, the method further includes pivoting the device around the pivot end to point the alignment end towards a left side of the user’s body; aligning a second edge of the housing with a second body landmark of the user’s chest, the pivoting and aligning causing the first sensor to become positioned within the threshold distance of a secondary first sensor target location; and measuring the one or more physiological parameters with the at least one sensor when the first sensor is positioned within the threshold distance of the secondary first sensor target location.

[0023] In at least one embodiment, the method further includes measuring, by a forcemeasuring component positioned on a finger-contacting surface of the housing, a force generated when the user grips the device. The finger-contacting surface extends between the alignment end and the pivot end and is positioned adjacent to the gripping surface and the body-contacting surface.

[0024] In at least one embodiment, the housing further includes a thumb-contacting surface extending between the alignment end and the pivot end and is positioned adjacent to the gripping surface and the body-contacting surface. The at least one sensor includes a thumb-contacting surface photoplethysmography sensor.

[0025] In at least one embodiment, the body landmark includes the user’s suprasternal notch.

[0026] In at least one embodiment, the first sensor target location includes a second intercostal space of the user.

[0027] In at least one embodiment, the first sensor includes a digital stethoscope.

[0028] In at least one embodiment, the at least one sensor includes one or more of electrocardiogram electrodes, an accelerometer, and a temperature sensor.

[0029] In at least one embodiment, the method further includes providing the user with pivoting guidance for pointing the alignment end towards the one shoulder of the user, the pivoting guidance provided using a visual indicator of the device.

[0030] In at least one embodiment, the visual indicator includes at least one of an LED pointer and a guiding marker positioned on the housing.

[0031] In at least one embodiment, the threshold distance is 1 inch.

[0032] Further aspects and advantages of the embodiments described herein will appear from the following description taken together with the accompanying drawings.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0033] For a better understanding of the embodiments described herein and to show more clearly how they may be carried into effect, reference will now be made, by way of example only, to the accompanying drawings which show at least one exemplary embodiment, and in which:

[0034] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a device for measuring one or more physiological parameters of a user, in accordance with at least one embodiment;

[0035] FIG. 2 is side perspective view of the device of FIG. 1 , in accordance with at least one embodiment;

[0036] FIG. 3 is another side perspective view of the device of FIG. 1 , in accordance with at least one embodiment;

[0037] FIG. 4 is a bottom view of the device of FIG. 1 , in accordance with at least one embodiment;

[0038] FIG. 5 is a block diagram of the device of FIG. 1 , in accordance with at least one embodiment;

[0039] FIG. 6A is an illustration of the user prior to using the device of FIG. 1 , in accordance with at least one embodiment;

[0040] FIG. 6B is an illustration of the user placing the device of FIG. 1 against the user’s chest, in accordance with at least one embodiment;

[0041] FIG. 6C is an illustration of the user aligning the device of FIG. 1 with a body landmark, in accordance with at least one embodiment;

[0042] FIG. 6D is an illustration of the user pivoting the device of FIG. 1 in a first manner, in accordance with at least one embodiment;

[0043] FIG. 6E is an illustration of the user pivoting the device of FIG. 1 in another manner, in accordance with at least one embodiment;

[0044] FIG. 6F is an illustration of the user pivoting the device of FIG. 1 in a further manner, in accordance with at least one embodiment;

[0045] FIG. 6G is an illustration of the user aligning the device of FIG. 1 with another body landmark, in accordance with at least one embodiment; and

[0046] FIG. 7 is a flowchart of a method for measuring one or more physiological parameters of a user using the device of FIG. 1 , in accordance with at least one embodiment.

[0047] The skilled person in the art will understand that the drawings, described below, are for illustration purposes only. The drawings are not intended to limit the scope of the applicants' teachings in any way. Also, it will be appreciated that for simplicity and clarity of illustration, elements shown in the figures have not necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements may be exaggerated relative to other elements for clarity. Further, where considered appropriate, reference numerals may be repeated among the figures to indicate corresponding or analogous elements.DESCRIPTION OF VARIOUS EMBODIMENTS

[0048] It will be appreciated that numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the exemplary embodiments described herein. However, it will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that the embodiments described herein may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well- known methods, procedures and components have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the embodiments described herein. Furthermore, this description is not to be considered as limiting the scope of the embodiments described herein in any way, but rather as merely describing the implementation of the various embodiments described herein.

[0049] It should be noted that terms of degree such as "substantially", "about" and "approximately" when used herein mean a reasonable amount of deviation of the modified term such that the end result is not significantly changed. These terms of degree should be construed as including a deviation of the modified term if this deviation would not negate the meaning of the term it modifies.

[0050] In addition, as used herein, the wording “and / or” is intended to represent an inclusive-or. That is, “X and / or Y” is intended to mean X or Y or both, for example. As a further example, “X, Y, and / or Z” is intended to mean X or Y or Z or any combination thereof.

[0051] It should be noted that the term “coupled” used herein indicates that two elements can be directly coupled to one another or coupled to one another through one or more intermediate elements.

[0052] Telehealth and remote healthcare technologies are commonly used for providing healthcare services. Telehealth and remote healthcare services can involve providing a patient with a device that allows the patient to measure certain vitals and other physiological parameters at home or outside of a healthcare setting (e.g., hospital, clinic, doctor’s office etc.). Such devices enable the patient to provide healthcare providers with current healthcare data without requiring a visit to a healthcare center. However, existing devices suffer from several drawbacks.

[0053] Existing devices may include one or more sensors for measuring the patient’s vitals and other physiological parameters. The proper positioning of the sensors relative to the patient’s body can be critical to obtaining accurate, and therefore useful, information. For example, for auscultation, photoplethysmography (PPG), and electrocardiogram (ECG) measurements, proper placement of each sensor over certain body landmarks is critical to obtaining useful information. If the sensors are not properly positioned during sensor measurements, the resulting data can include, for example, weak, inaccurate, misleading, and / or noisy signals.

[0054] Existing devices lack a user-friendly and / or easy-to-use design that allows a typical patient to use the device to capture accurate and reliable measurements of physiological parameters, without the assistance of a healthcare professional. For example, a typical patient may not have medical training and / or medical knowledge and / or medical experience. As another example, a typical patient may further be an elderly person, may have limited mobility and / or flexibility, and / or may experience various forms of disease states that can affect the patient’s abilities (e.g., cognitive, mobility etc.). Furthermore, some existing devices include multiple components that require reconfiguration for differentmeasurements, which complicates and extends the data acquisition process. Such existing devices are generally not suitable for the typical patient.

[0055] Many existing devices lack any guidance mechanism for providing the patient with guidance on how to properly position the device on the patient’s body. Those devices that do include a guidance mechanism generally suffer from certain drawbacks. For example, some devices provide the user with directional guidance. Directional guidance can be in the form of, for example, arrows (e.g., pointing up or left) indicating the direction in which the device should be moved. However, these types of directional guidance can be difficult for patients to accurately translate into positional corrections as there is no clear indication of how far to adjust the device’s position. Other directional guidance can be in the form of measurements (e.g., move the device up 4 inches and left 5 inches). However, these types of directional guidance can also be difficult for patients to accurately translate into positional corrections if, for example, the patient is unsure of how to estimate 4 inches of movement. Furthermore, these types of directional guidance pose challenges related to the latency between directions. For example, the patient may not have enough time to make a first adjustment before new directional guidance is provided.

[0056] Furthermore, many existing devices determine the directional guidance based on physiological signals, such as ECG signals. For example, existing devices can compare an ECG signal from a first position to an ECG signal at the optimal position to determine the required positional adjustment of the device. However, some disease states can change, for example, a patient’s ECG such that using the ECG signal for positional guidance may result in inaccurate and / or improper positioning. Furthermore, devices that use a comparison of a signal at a first position to a signal at an optimal position generally require the assistance of a healthcare professional to initially set up a baseline signal at the optimal position. This can also require resetting the baseline signal at the optimal position if the baseline signal changes over time.

[0057] The ability for a typical patient to obtain accurate measurements of physiological parameters such as, for example, S1 , S2, S3, and / or S4 heart sounds, without requiring a visit to a healthcare center or otherwise requiring the assistance of a healthcare professional, would improve the delivery of healthcare services. For example, this could allow a determination to be made remotely of whether further examination is required basedon the accurate measurements of physiological parameters. That is, the patient could obtain accurate measurements of physiological parameters at home, and the patient’s healthcare provider could determine, based on those measurements, whether the patient requires further examination. This process would help prevent unnecessary trips by the patient to a healthcare center in situations where further examination is not required. This also reduces the human resources required (e.g., healthcare professionals) for operating the equipment and / or devices used for obtaining accurate measurements of physiological parameters.

[0058] Accordingly, there is a need for a device that can measure one or more physiological parameters of a patient quickly, easily, and reliably, without requiring the patient to have certain medical training and without the assistance of a healthcare professional. Specifically, there is a need for a device that a patient can easily position correctly on their body for obtaining accurate measurements. Furthermore, the device should have an intuitive design for the user to use and grip, and should not require significant reconfiguration of, for example, sensors for different measurements of physiological parameters.

[0059] Disclosed herein are devices and methods for measuring one or more physiological parameter of a user.

[0060] The term “user” as used herein refers to a person (e.g., a patient) whose physiological parameters are being measured using the disclosed devices. Although the devices are generally described herein as being gripped and pivoted by the user (e.g., the person whose physiological parameters are being measured), it is possible that another person (e.g., a caregiver) can grip the device, place the device in contact with the user’s body, and / or pivot the device, to measure one or more physiological parameters of the user (e.g., the patient).

[0061] Reference will now be made to FIGS. 1 to 4. Referring to FIG. 1 , shown therein is a perspective view of a device 100 for measuring one or more physiological parameters of a user according to at least one embodiment. Referring to FIG. 2, shown therein is a perspective side view of the device 100 according to at least one embodiment. Referring to FIG. 3, shown therein is another perspective side view of the device 100 according to at least one embodiment. Referring to FIG. 4, shown therein is a bottom view of the device 100according to at least one embodiment. The device 100 includes a housing 102, and at least one sensor, for example, 118, 124, 126, 128, and / or 130, for measuring one or more physiological parameters. FIGS. 1 to 4 are provided for illustration purposes only and other configurations are possible.

[0062] As shown in FIGS. 1 to 4, the housing 102 can include an alignment end 104, a pivot end 108, a gripping surface 110, a body-contacting surface 112, a thumb-contacting surface 114, a finger-contacting surface 116, and a cavity 120.

[0063] The alignment end 104 includes an edge 106 that is dimensionally complementary to a body landmark of the user’s body for positioning the alignment end 104 in alignment with the body landmark. In some embodiments, the body landmark can include the user’s suprasternal notch. The suprasternal notch is generally easily locatable in all body weights, and accordingly, provides a suitable body landmark that the user can locate to align the device 100 on the user’s chest. Furthermore, healthcare practitioners are often trained to locate a position on a person’s body at which to measure a physiological parameter by using the person’s suprasternal notch as an initial body landmark. Accordingly, the device 100 as disclosed is consistent with the current standard of care for locating a position on a person’s body at which to measure a physiological parameter (i.e. , by using body landmarks to locate the position rather than using, for example, other physiological signals, such as ECG signals, to locate the position).

[0064] The edge 106 can be sized and / or shaped in a manner corresponding to the size and / or shape of the body landmark, which allows the user to easily align the edge 106 with the body landmark. For example, when the body landmark includes the suprasternal notch, the edge 106 can have a curvature and size that generally corresponds to the curvature and size of an average suprasternal notch.

[0065] As shown in FIGS. 1 to 4, the pivot end 108 is positioned opposite the alignment end 104. The pivot end 108 provides a point around which the device 100 can be pivoted during positioning of the device 100. That is, once the alignment end 104 is aligned with the user’s body landmark (e.g., suprasternal notch), the device 100 can be pivoted around the pivot end 108 such that the alignment end 104 becomes positioned at a new position while the pivot end 108 remains in generally the same position. In someembodiments, the pivot end 108 may experience slight adjustments in position during pivoting but remains generally in the same position as it operates as the pivot point of the device 100.

[0066] As shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, the gripping surface 110 extends between the alignment end 104 and the pivot end 108. The gripping surface 110 is shaped to be gripped by a hand of the user. For example, in some embodiments, the gripping surface 110 can have a shape that generally resembles a standard computer mouse, which provides an intuitive and familiar gripping shape for most users. Other shapes of the gripping surface 110 are possible. For example, the gripping surface 110 can have a generally convex shape or a generally spherical or ellipsoidal shape. In some embodiments, the gripping surface 110 can contact a palm of the user’s hand that is being used to grip the device 100. In some embodiments, the gripping surface 110 can include one or more grooves and / or ridges for indicating a preferred position for one or more portions of the user’s hand (e.g., finger(s), palm etc.).

[0067] As shown in FIGS. 1 to 4, the body-contacting surface 112 extends between the alignment end 104 and the pivot end 108. The body-contacting surface 112 is positioned opposite the gripping surface 110. In some embodiments, the body-contacting surface 112 can be generally planar for contacting the user’s body. For example, in some embodiments, the body-contacting surface 112 is placed in contact with the user’s chest. The bodycontacting surface 112 can include one or more sensors, which will be described in further detail.

[0068] Although the term “body-contacting surface” is used, it should be understood that in some embodiments, the body-contacting surface 112 is placed in contact with, for example, a material (e.g., a shirt or other article of clothing) positioned over the user’s skin. For example, the body-contacting surface 112 can be placed in contact with a shirt that the user is wearing.

[0069] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the thumb-contacting surface 114 extends between the alignment end 104 and the pivot end 108. The thumb-contacting surface 114 is positioned adjacent to the gripping surface 110 and the body-contacting surface 112. The thumb-contacting surface 114 is contacted by the user’s thumb when the user grips thedevice 100. The thumb-contacting surface 114 can include one or more sensors. For example, the thumb-contacting surface 114 can include a photoplethysmography (PPG) sensor 118a. The PPG sensor 118a can measure volumetric variations of the user’s blood circulation at the user’s thumb to determine physiological parameters of the user such as, for example, heart rate, blood oxygen saturation, respiratory rate, respiratory rate variability, cardiac output, blood pressure, and / or heart rate variability. In some embodiments, the PPG sensor 118a can be used to determine other physiological parameters from the measured PPG signal in accordance with techniques known by a person skilled in the art. In some embodiments, the thumb-contacting surface 114 can include one or more grooves and / or ridges for indicating a preferred position of the user’s thumb. In some embodiments, the thumb-contacting surface 114 includes an enclosure for enclosing a portion of the user’s thumb when the user grips the device 100. For example, the enclosure can include a cap structure for enclosing the tip portion of the user’s thumb, which can prevent ambient light from affecting the PPG sensor 118a measurements. For example, the cap structure can be a hollow structure having an open end for inserting the user’s thumb.

[0070] As shown in FIG. 3, the finger-contacting surface 116 extends between the alignment end 104 and the pivot end 108. The finger-contacting surface 116 is positioned adjacent to the gripping surface 110 and the body-contacting surface 112. The fingercontacting surface 116 is further positioned opposite the thumb-contacting surface 114. The finger-contacting surface 116 is contacted by at least one of the user’s fingers when the user grips the device 100. For example, the finger-contacting surface 116 can be contacted by one, two, three, or four of the user’s fingers when the user grips the device 100. In some embodiments, the finger-contacting surface 116 can include one or more grooves and / or ridges for indicating a preferred position of one or more of the user’s fingers.

[0071] In some embodiments, the finger-contacting surface 116 can include one or more sensors, as shown in FIG. 3. For example, in some embodiments, the finger-contacting surface 116 can include a force-measuring component 124 for measuring a force generated when the user grips the device 100. Grip strength can be an indicator of a person’s general health, as well as several health conditions such as, for example, sarcopenia, which is often found among elderly persons, and persons facing disease states such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, and other chronic diseases, for example. Accordingly, in someembodiments, the force-measuring component 124 can measure the force generated when the user grips the device 100 during regular operation of the device 100 as described. In some embodiments, the force-measuring component 124 can measure the force generated when the user performs a handgrip test, such as an isometric handgrip test, for example. Furthermore, the force measured by the force-measuring component 124 can be used to determine whether the user should grip the device 100 with a more firm or less firm grip. For example, the force measured by the force-measuring component 124 can be used to determine that the user should grip the device 100 more firmly in order to accentuate a heart murmur that is to be measured by a separate sensor of the device 100 (e.g., digital stethoscope, which will be described in further detail). Additionally, the force measured by the force-measuring component 124 can be used to determine that the user should grip the device 100 more firmly to prevent signal artifacts in the sensor measurements due to movement of the device 100 from having too soft a grip. In some embodiments, the force measured by the force-measuring component 124 can be used to determine that the user should grip the device 100 less firmly.

[0072] In some embodiments, the force-measuring component 124 can include a structure sized and shaped for one to four fingers of the user to press while gripping the device 100. For example, the force-measuring component 124 can have a bar shape, as shown in FIG. 3. The user can press the force-measuring component 124 using one, two, three, or four of the user’s fingers. In some embodiments, the force-measuring component 124 itself comprises one or more force-measuring sensors such as a strain gauge, a force sensor, and / or a load cell. In some embodiments, the force-measuring component 124 is coupled to one or more force-measuring sensors such as a strain gauge, a force sensor, and / or a load cell, which can be positioned inside the housing 102.

[0073] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 4, in some embodiments, the housing 102 can include a cavity 120. For example, the cavity 120 can include an open void at the alignment end 104 of the housing 102. The cavity 120 can be defined by an upper surface 121 and one or more side surfaces 123. For example, the side surfaces 123 can include side surface 123a and side surface 123b. In some embodiments, the upper surface 121 is generally planar. The upper surface 121 can be offset from the body-contacting surface 112 such that the upper surface 121 does not come into contact with the user’s body when the body-contactingsurface 112 is placed in contact with the user’s body. The upper surface 121 can include one or more sensors. For example, as shown in FIG. 4, the upper surface 121 can include noncontact temperature sensor 126. The positioning of the non-contact temperature sensor 126 on the upper surface 121 allows for proper positioning of the non-contact temperature sensor 126 at an appropriate distance from the user’s body when the body-contacting surface 112 is placed in contact with the user’s body. In some embodiments, the cavity 120 is sized such that the non-contact temperature sensor 126 is positioned approximately 1 cm from the user’s body when the body-contacting surface 112 is placed in contact with the user’s body. In some embodiments, the cavity 120 is sized such that the non-contact temperature sensor 126 is positioned more or less than 1 cm from the user’s body when the body-contacting surface 112 is placed in contact with the user’s body.

[0074] In some embodiments, the housing 102 does not include a cavity 120 and can include a contact temperature sensor positioned on the body-contacting surface 112, for example.

[0075] In some embodiments, the housing 102 as described is configured to be gripped in the user’s left hand. That is, the thumb-contacting surface 114 and the fingercontacting surface 116 are arranged such that when the user grips the device 100 in the user’s left hand, the user’s left thumb contacts the thumb-contacting surface 114 and the user’s left finger(s) contact the finger-contacting surface 116. In some embodiments, the housing 102 as described is configured to be gripped in the user’s right hand. That is, the thumb-contacting surface 114 and the finger-contacting surface 116 are arranged such that when the user grips the device 100 in the user’s right hand, the user’s right thumb contacts the thumb-contacting surface 114 and the user’s right finger(s) contact the finger-contacting surface 116.

[0076] As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, in some embodiments, the housing 102 can include an opening 122 for an interface unit and / or a power supply unit, to be described in further detail with reference to FIG. 5. The interface unit can include, for example, one or more connectors to be used for communication purposes. For example, the interface unit can include a connector for connecting the device 100 to an external computer for transferring data. The power supply unit can include, for example one or more connectors to be used forpower supply purposes. For example, the interface unit can include a connector for connecting the device 100 to a power supply.

[0077] The housing 102 can comprise any suitable material as is known in the art.

[0078] The housing 102 is sized for handheld use. That is, the housing 102 is sized as to be generally gripable by a user’s hand. The dimensions of the housing 102 are further selected as to accommodate the sensor arrangements that allow for proper positioning of one or more sensors of the device 100 in relation to the user’s body, to be described in further detail.

[0079] As described, the device 100 includes at least one sensor. The at least one sensor includes a first sensor 128 positioned on the body-contacting surface 112 for measuring a first physiological parameter when placed in contact with the user’s chest, as shown in FIG. 4. The first sensor 128 is arranged on the body-contacting surface 112 such that the first sensor 128 becomes positioned within a threshold distance of a first sensor target location when the device 100 is pivoted around the pivot end 108 to point the alignment end 104 towards a shoulder of the user. In some embodiments, the first sensor 128 includes a digital stethoscope for measuring auscultation sounds. For example, the digital stethoscope can measure the user’s heart sounds, such as, but not limited to, S1 , S2, S3, and / or S4 sounds. In some embodiments, the digital stethoscope can be used to measure other types of auscultation sounds (e.g., respiratory, gastrointestinal, other cardiac sounds etc.). The digital stethoscope can include, for example, one or more microphones and / or piezoelectric sensors. In some embodiments, the digital stethoscope can include any other suitable sensor as is known in the art.

[0080] The first sensor target location corresponds to a location on the user’s body at which the first physiological parameter is preferably measured by the first sensor 128. The term “preferably measured” as used with reference to a sensor target location means that the sensor target location is known to be a location on a user’s body at which reliable and accurate data can be measured by the associated sensor, but that measurements are not limited to that location. That is, sensor measurements can be taken at other locations on the user’s body. In some embodiments, the first sensor target location includes a second intercostal space of the user. That is, the space between the user’s second and third ribs. Insuch embodiments, the first sensor target location can correspond to the user’s second intercostal space on the right or the left side of the user’s body. The second intercostal space is known to be an important location for cardiac auscultation (e.g., S1 , S2, S3, and / or S4 heart sounds). For example, the user’s right second intercostal space is generally a good location for measuring S2 heart sounds while the user’s left second intercostal space is generally a good location for measuring S1 heart sounds. In some embodiments, other sounds can be measured at the user’s right second intercostal space (e.g., S1 , S3, and / or S4 heart sounds). In some embodiments, other sounds can be measured at the user’s left second intercostal space (e.g., S2, S3, and / or S4 heart sounds). Furthermore, the second intercostal spaces can also be good locations for measuring an ECG of the user, which will be described in further detail.

[0081] The threshold distance represents an approximate distance at which a sensor of the device 100 should be positioned relative to that sensor’s target location. In some embodiments, the threshold distance for a sensor can be selected such that the sensor is positioned close enough to the target location that accurate and reliable data can be measured, while also allowing a reasonable threshold of error for the user. For example, if the threshold distance is too small, the user would likely need to make several minor positional adjustments to the device 100 to position the sensor within its threshold distance, which could lead to the user becoming frustrated with the device 100. Accordingly, in some embodiments, the threshold distance is about 1 inch. In some embodiments, the threshold distance can be more or less than 1 inch. In some embodiments, each sensor of the device 100 can have the same threshold distance. In some embodiments, different sensors of the device 100 can have different threshold distances. In some embodiments, the threshold distance is measured as the distance between an approximate center of the sensor and an approximate center of the sensor target location. However, the threshold distance can be measured based on other portions of the sensor and / or respective sensor target location.

[0082] As shown in FIG. 4, the at least one sensor can further include a second sensor 118b positioned on the body-contacting surface 112 for measuring a second physiological parameter when placed in contact with the user’s chest. The second sensor 118b is arranged on the body-contacting surface 112 such that the second sensor 118b is positioned within its threshold distance of a second sensor target location when the body-contacting surface112 is placed against the user’s chest and the edge 106 of the alignment end 104 is in alignment with the body landmark. The second sensor 118b is further arranged on the bodycontacting surface 112 such that the second sensor 118b remains within the threshold distance of the second sensor target location when the device 100 is pivoted around the pivot end 108 to point the alignment end 104 towards the user’s shoulder. In some embodiments, the second sensor 118b comprises a PPG sensor. As described, the PPG sensor can measure volumetric variations of the user’s blood circulation to determine physiological parameters of the user such as, for example, heart rate, blood oxygen saturation, respiratory rate, respiratory rate variability, heart rate variability, cardiac output, and / or blood pressure. In some embodiments, the PPG sensor can be used to determine other physiological parameters from the measured PPG signal in accordance with techniques known by a person skilled in the art.

[0083] The second sensor target location corresponds to a location on the user’s body at which the second physiological parameter is preferably measured. As described, the term “preferably measured” as used with reference to a sensor target location means that the sensor target location is known to be a location on a user’s body at which reliable and accurate data can be measured by the associated sensor, but that measurements are not limited to that location. That is, sensor measurements can be taken at other locations on the user’s body. In some embodiments, the second sensor target location includes the user’s sternum body. The sternum body can be an important location for PPG measurements. This is because, at least in part, measuring PPG signals from the sternum body can reduce sensor measurement issues related to blockages, venous pooling, respiratory modulation, and temperature differences, which can be more likely to occur when PPG signals are measured at peripheral locations (e.g., finger, toe, and / or ear).

[0084] Each sensor of the device 100 can measure one or more physiological parameters of the user when the first sensor 128 becomes positioned within its threshold distance of the first sensor target location. The arrangement of the housing 102 and the sensors, as described, are such that each sensor becomes adequately positioned for measuring sensor data when the first sensor 128 becomes positioned within the threshold distance of the first sensor target location. That is, each sensor of the device 100 can measure its respective sensor data simultaneously such that the user does not need toreconfigure or reposition the device 100 for each sensor measurement. This can make the measurement process simpler for the user, and can reduce the overall time required to measure the user’s physiological parameters.

[0085] In some embodiments, sensors of the device 100 can further include, but are not limited to, electrocardiogram (ECG) electrodes 130 and / or an accelerometer (not shown in FIGS. 1 -4).

[0086] In some embodiments, the ECG electrodes 130 can be positioned on the bodycontacting surface 112. As shown in FIG. 4, the ECG electrodes 130 can include, for example, three electrodes 130a-c, which enable the device 100 to measure a three-lead ECG. In such embodiments, the ECG electrodes 130a-c can be positioned around the perimeter of the first sensor 128. This arrangement of the ECG electrodes 130a-c with respect to the first sensor 128 enables the ECG electrodes 130a-c to measure the ECG signal from approximately the first sensor target position when the first sensor 128 is positioned within the target threshold of the first sensor target position. For example, when the first sensor 128 includes a digital stethoscope for measuring heart sounds (e.g., S1 , S2, S3, and / or S4) and the first sensor target location includes the user’s second intercostal space, the ECG electrodes 130 would measure the ECG signal from approximately the user’s second intercostal space. In some embodiments, the electrocardiogram electrodes 130 can include other numbers of electrodes such as, for example, five electrodes.

[0087] In some embodiments, the device 100 includes an accelerometer for measuring movement of the device 100 to assess, for example, a tremor of the user. In some embodiments, the accelerometer can be positioned inside the housing 102. The movement data measured by the accelerometer can further be used to determine whether the user moved the device 100 too much during sensor measurements, which may cause artifacts in the measured sensor data. In some embodiments, a gait analysis of the user can be performed when the movement data is measured as the user walks a short distance while holding the device. For example, the user can be instructed to walk approximately 6 meters while holding the device. Movement data measured by the accelerometer during this walking task can be used to analyze the user’s gait.

[0088] As shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, in some embodiments, the device 100 further includes a visual indicator 144 for providing the user with pivoting guidance for pointing the alignment end 104 towards the user’s shoulder. The visual indicator 144 can include, but is not limited to, a light pointer 144b-c and / or a guiding marker 144a positioned on the housing 102. For example, a light pointer 144b-c can include an LED pointer that is positioned towards the alignment end 104 of the housing 102 and can project, for example, a line of light 145b-c from the device 100 towards the user’s shoulder, which allows the user to align the projected line of light with their shoulder. For example, as shown in FIG. 1 , light pointer 144b can be positioned on side surface 123b of the cavity 120 and can project line of light 145b. As another example, as shown in FIG. 1 , light pointer 144c can be positioned on or near gripping surface 110 and pointed in a downward direction to project line of light 145c. Although FIG. 1 shows lines of light 145, other suitable types of light projections that provide positioning guidance are possible. Although light pointer 144b and light pointer 144c are both shown in FIG. 1 , in some embodiments, the device 100 can include only one of light pointers 144b and 144c or none of light pointers 144b and 144c. As shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, in some embodiments, the guiding marker 144a can include a physical guiding marker (e.g., an engraving, marking, and / or raised component on the housing 102) that provides the user with a marker for pointing in the general direction of the user’s shoulder. Although FIGS. 1 to 3 show the guiding marker 144a as a line, any other suitable shape of guiding marker is possible. For example, the guiding marker 144a can include a triangle, a rectangle, and / or an arrow.

[0089] In some embodiments, the first sensor 128 is further arranged on the bodycontacting surface 112 such that the first sensor 128 becomes positioned within the threshold distance of a secondary first sensor target location when the edge 106 of the alignment end 104 is aligned with the user’s body landmark (e.g., suprasternal notch), the device 100 is then pivoted around the pivot end 108 to point the alignment end 104 towards the left side of the user’s body, and the device 100 is then moved in a generally downwards direction to align an edge 115 of the device 100 with a second body landmark of the user. The edge 115 of the device 100 can include, for example, edge 115a that is adjacent to the body-contacting surface 112 and the thumb-contacting surface 114, or edge 115b that is adjacent to the bodycontacting surface 112 and the finger-contacting surface 116. For example, the edge 115can include edge 115b when the device 100 is configured for being gripped by the user’s right hand. Alternatively, the edge can include edge 115a when the device 100 is configured to be gripped by the user’s left hand. In some embodiments, the edge 115 is dimensionally complementary to the second body landmark of the user for assisting with the alignment. For example, in some embodiments, the second body landmark includes a lower edge of the user’s left pectoral region and the edge 115 is dimensionally complementary to a lower edge of an average pectoral region. The second sensor 118b is further arranged on the bodycontacting surface such that the second sensor 118b remains within the threshold distance of the second sensor target location when the device 100 is pivoted around the pivot end 108 to point the alignment end 104 towards the left side of the user’s body and then moved in a generally downwards direction until an edge 115 of the device 100 aligns with the second body landmark of the user (e.g., lower edge of pectoral). In some embodiments, the pivoting can involve pivoting the device approximately 90 degrees from the initial alignment position (e.g., where edge 106 of the alignment end 104 is aligned with the body landmark such as the suprasternal notch). However, the pivoting is not limited to 90 degrees and other degrees of pivoting are possible. In some embodiments, the secondary first sensor target location includes the user’s left fourth and / or fifth intercostal space. In some embodiments, the first sensor 128 is a digital stethoscope and the secondary first sensor target location is the user’s left fourth and / or fifth intercostal space such that the first sensor 128 can measure, for example, the user’s S3 and / or S4 heart sounds when the first sensor 128 is within the threshold distance of the secondary first sensor target location. In some embodiments, the device 100 can be moved along the lower edge of the user’s pectoral region towards the left side the of the user’s body for measuring the user’s S3 and / or S4 heart sounds. For example, in some embodiments, the device 100 can be moved approximately 1 cm to 2 cm along the lower edge of the user’s pectoral region.

[0090] Referring to FIG. 5, shown therein is a block diagram of the device 500 in accordance with at least one embodiment. Components in FIG. 5 that correspond to similar components in FIGS. 1 to 4 are identified with reference characters incremented to the 500s. As described, the device 500 can include a visual indicator 544, and one or more sensors 501 , such as one or more PPG sensors 518, a force-measuring component 524, a temperature sensor 526, a digital stethoscope 528, ECG electrodes 530, and / or anaccelerometer 531 . The device 500 can further include a processing unit 532, a memory unit 534, a power supply unit 536, I / O hardware 538, a communication unit 540, and an interface unit 542.

[0091] Although the example device 500 shown in FIG. 5 includes a memory unit 534, I / O hardware 538, a communication unit 540, and an interface unit 542, in some embodiments, the device 500 may not include all of the illustrated components. Furthermore, although the example device 500 shown in FIG. 5 shows a plurality of example sensors 501 , in some embodiments, the device 500 may not include any and / or all of the illustrated example sensors 501 .

[0092] Components 532, 534, 536, 538, 540, and 542 are illustrated separately in FIG. 5. In some embodiments, one or more of components 532, 534, 536, 538, 540, and 542 can be combined into fewer components, or separated into further components. In some embodiments, parts of a component can be combined with another part of another component.

[0093] The processing unit 532 controls the operation of the device 500 and can be any suitable processor, controller, digital signal processor, application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), field programmable gate array (FPGA), microcontroller, and / or other suitably programmed or programmable logic circuit that can provide sufficient processing power depending on the configuration, purposes, and requirements of the device 500 as is known by those skilled in the art. For example, the processing unit 532 include a microprocessor. In some embodiments, the processing unit 532 can include more than one processor with each processor being configured to perform different dedicated tasks. In some embodiments, specialized hardware can be used to provide some of the functions provided by the processing unit 532.

[0094] The processing unit 532 can operate the sensors 501 , memory unit 534, power supply unit 536, I / O hardware 538, communication unit 540, interface unit 542, and visual indicator 544 components. For example, the processing unit 532 can operate the sensors 501 to capture sensor data and store the sensor data in the memory unit 534 and / or transmit the sensor data to another device and / or system via the communication unit 540.

[0095] The memory unit 534 can include non-volatile storage such as ROM, one or more hard drives, one or more flash drives, or some other suitable data storage elements. The non-volatile storage may be used to store software instructions, including computerexecutable instructions, for implementing an operating system, programs, or other software modules, as well as storing any data used by those software modules. The data may be stored in a database and / or data files. The data files can be used to store data for the device 500 such as, but not limited to, device settings, parameter settings, calibration data, sensor data, and processed sensor data, for example.

[0096] The power supply unit 536 can be any suitable power source or power conversion hardware that provides power to the various components of the device 500. The power supply unit 536 may include a power adaptor or one or more batteries (e.g., a rechargeable battery pack, or one or more non-rechargeable batteries) depending on the implementation of the device 500 as is known by those skilled in the art. In some embodiments, the power supply unit 536 may include other components for providing power or backup power as is known by those skilled in the art.

[0097] The I / O (input / output) hardware 538 includes software instructions that, when executed by the processor(s) of the processing unit 532, can configure the processor(s) to receive sensor data, store data in the files or database and / or retrieve data from the files or database of the memory unit 534. For example, the I / O module may be used to receive one or more sensor streams from the sensors 501 .

[0098] The communication unit 540 can include any interface that enables the device 500 to communicate with various devices and other systems. For example, the communication unit 540 can include a radio that communicates utilizing CDMA, GSM, GPRS, or Bluetooth protocol according to standards such as IEEE 802.11a, 802.11 b, 802.11 g, or 802.11 n. The communication unit 540 can be used by the device 500 to communicate with other devices or systems. The communication unit 540 can provide the processing unit 532 with a way of communicating wirelessly with various devices that may be remote from the device 500.

[0099] The interface unit 542 can be any interface that allows the device 500 to send and receive signals with other devices external to the device 500 such as signal processinghardware, other electronic devices including computers, mobile devices, tablets, servers and the like. For example, the interface unit 542 can include at least one of a serial port, a parallel port, or a USB port that provides USB connectivity. The interface unit 542 can also include a wireless transmitter, receiver, or transceiver for communicating with a wireless communications network. The wireless communications network can include at least one of an Internet, a Local Area Network (LAN), an Ethernet, a Firewire, a modem, or a digital subscriber line connection. In some embodiments, various combinations of these elements may be incorporated within the interface unit 542. In some embodiments, the interface unit 542 is used to perform an over-the-air software update of any of the software instructions stored on the device 500.

[0100] The sensors 501 can be in communication with the processing unit 532. As described, the sensors 501 can include one or more PPG sensors 518, a force-measuring component 524, a temperature sensor 526, a digital stethoscope 528, ECG electrodes 530, and / or an accelerometer 531. In some embodiments, the device 500 can include other sensors. In some embodiments, the device 500 can include none, some, or all of the illustrated sensors 501 .

[0101] The visual indicator 544 can be in communication with the processing unit 532. For example, the processing unit 532 can control the operation of the visual indicator 544 when the visual indicator includes a light pointer.

[0102] Referring now to FIG. 7, shown therein is a flowchart of a method 700 for measuring one or more physiological parameters of a user using the device 100 in accordance with at least one embodiment. To assist with the description of method 700, reference will be made simultaneously to FIGS. 6A, 6B, 6C, 6D, 6E, 6F, and 6G. Components in FIGS. 6A-G that correspond to similar components in FIGS. 1 to 4 are identified with reference characters incremented to the 600s.

[0103] Referring now to FIG. 6A, shown therein is an illustration 645 of a user 654 prior to using the device 600 in accordance with at least one embodiment. The user’s suprasternal notch 646, first rib 648a, second rib 648b, third rib 648c, sternum 650, and second intercostal space 652 are shown using dashed lines to indicate the general internal positioning of these features. Although only the user’s left ribs 648 and right secondintercostal space 652 are denoted with reference characters for ease of illustration, it should be understood that the similar features are also shown on the opposite side of the user’s body. The user’s right shoulder 647a and left shoulder 647b are also shown.

[0104] Referring to FIG. 7, at 702, the user 654 grips the device 600 in the user’s hand. As described, this can involve the user 654 gripping the gripping surface 110, the user’s thumb contacting the thumb-contacting surface 114, and one or more of the user’s fingers contacting the finger-contacting surface 116.

[0105] At 704, the user 654 places the body-contacting surface 112 of the device 600 against the user’s chest. Referring now to FIG. 6B, shown therein is an illustration 656 of the user 654 placing the body-contacting surface 112 of the device 600 against the user’s chest. For ease of illustration, FIGS. 6B-6G do not illustrate the user’s hand gripping the device 600. Furthermore, some sensors of the device 600, including the PPG sensor 618b, temperature sensor 626, digital stethoscope 628, and ECG electrodes 630 are shown using dashed lines to indicate their general positioning on the body-contacting surface 112 of the device 600 since the body-contacting surface 112 is not directly visible in FIGS. 6B-6G.

[0106] Referring to FIG. 7, at 706, the user 654 aligns the edge 106 of the alignment end 104 of the device 600 with the body landmark 646 of the user’s chest. Referring now to FIG. 6C, shown therein is an illustration 658 of the user 654 aligning the edge 106 of the alignment end 104 of the device 600 with the body landmark 646 of the user’s chest. As described, the body landmark 646 can be the user’s suprasternal notch. As shown in FIG. 6C and as described, the aligning positions the second sensor 618b (e.g., PPG sensor) within the threshold distance of the second sensor target location (e.g., the body of the user’s sternum 650).

[0107] Referring to FIG. 7, at 708, the user 654 pivots the device 600 around the pivot end 108 to point the alignment end 104 towards one of the user’s shoulders 647. Referring now to FIG. 6D, shown therein is an illustration 660 of the user 654 pivoting the device 600 around the pivot end 108 to point the alignment end 104 towards one of the user’s shoulders 647. For example, the user 654 can pivot the device 600 to point the alignment end 104 towards the user’s right shoulder 647a, as shown in FIG. 6D. In alternative embodiments, the user 654 can pivot the device 600 to point the alignment end 104 towards the user’s leftshoulder 647b, as shown in FIG. 6E. This pivoting can involve pivoting the device 600 approximately 45 degrees from the aligned position at 706. However, the pivoting is not limited to 45 degrees and other degrees of pivoting are possible. As shown in FIG. 6D, the pivoting causes the first sensor 628 (e.g., digital stethoscope) to become positioned within the threshold distance of the first sensor target location 652 (e.g., second intercostal space). In the embodiment shown in FIG. 6D, the first sensor target location 652 is the user’s right second intercostal space. This positioning allows the first sensor 628 (e.g., digital stethoscope) to measure the user’s S2 heart sounds and / or the user’s S1 , S3, and / or S4 heart sounds.

[0108] Referring to FIG. 7, at 710, the sensors of the device 600 measure one or more physiological parameters of the user 654 when the first sensor 628 is positioned within the threshold distance of the first sensor target location 652. That is, at 710, each sensor of the device 600 can simultaneously measure its respective sensor data while the first sensor 628 is positioned within the threshold distance of the first sensor target location 652. For example, referring to FIG. 6D, the first sensor 628 can measure the S2 heart sounds, and / or the user’s S1 , S3, and / or S4 heart sounds, from the right second intercostal space 652 when the first sensor 628 includes a digital stethoscope, the ECG electrodes 630 can measure the ECG from the right second intercostal space 652, and the second sensor 618b can measure the PPG signals from the sternum 650 when the second sensor 618b includes a PPG sensor. Other sensors of device 600 that are not shown in FIG. 6D can also measure one or more physiological parameters while the device is positioned as illustrated.

[0109] In some embodiments, 708 can be performed in the opposite direction as previously described. Referring now to FIG. 6E, shown therein is an illustration 662 of the user 654 pivoting the device 600 to point the alignment end 104 towards the user’s opposite shoulder 647. For example, the user 654 can pivot the device 600 to point the alignment end 104 towards the user’s left shoulder 647b. As shown in FIG. 6E, this pivoting causes the first sensor 628 (e.g., digital stethoscope) to become positioned within the threshold distance of the first sensor target location 652 (e.g., second intercostal space). In the embodiment shown in FIG. 6E, the first sensor target location 652 is the user’s left second intercostal space. This positioning allows the first sensor 628 (e.g., digital stethoscope) to measure the user’s S1 heart sounds, and / or the user’s S2, S3, and / or S4 heart sounds. In some embodiments, theuser 654 can pivot the device 600 approximately 45 degrees from the alignment position of 706 towards the user’s left shoulder 647b. However, the pivoting is not limited to 45 degrees and other degrees of pivoting are possible. In alternative embodiments, the user 654 can pivot the device 600 approximately 90 degrees from the position shown in FIG. 6D (e.g., alignment end 104 pointing towards the user’s right shoulder 647a) towards the user’s left shoulder 647b. However, the pivoting is not limited to 90 degrees and other degrees of pivoting are possible.

[0110] In some embodiments, the method 700 can further include pivoting and aligning the device 600 for measuring other physiological signals, such as S3 and / or S4 heart sounds, for example. Reference will now be made to FIGS. 6F and 6G. Referring to FIG. 6F, shown therein is an illustration 664 of the user 654 pivoting the device 600 around the pivot end 108 to point the alignment end 104 towards the left side of the user’s body. The user’s fourth 648d, fifth 648e, and sixth 648f ribs, fourth 653 and fifth 655 intercostal spaces, and lower pectoral edge 657 are shown. Although only the user’s left ribs 648 and right fourth 653 and fifth 655 intercostal spaces are denoted with reference characters for ease of illustration, it should be understood that the similar features are also shown on the opposite side of the user’s body. For ease of illustration, some sensors of the device 600 are not shown. However, it should be understood that device 600 can include additional sensors that are not shown. As shown in FIG. 6F, in some embodiments, the user 654 can pivot the device 600 approximately 90 degrees from the alignment position as described herein and as shown in FIG. 6C. However, the pivoting is not limited to 90 degrees and other degrees of pivoting are possible. Referring now to FIG. 6G, shown therein is an illustration 666 of the user aligning an edge 115 of the device 600 with a second body landmark of the user 654. For example, an edge 115 of the device 600 can be aligned with a lower edge of the user’s left pectoral region 657. As described, the edge 115 of the device 600 can include edge 115a or edge 115b, which can be dimensionally complementary to a lower edge of the user’s pectoral region 657. As shown in FIG. 6G, this pivoting and aligning causes the first sensor 628 (e.g., digital stethoscope) to become positioned within the threshold distance of the secondary first sensor target location (e.g., fourth 653 and / or fifth 655 intercostal space). This positioning allows the first sensor 628 (e.g., digital stethoscope) to measure the user’s S3 and / or S4 heart sounds, for example. Although reference is made to measuring the user’s S3 and / orS4 heart sounds, other sounds can be measured, such as S1 and / or S2 heart sounds, for example.

[0111] In some embodiments, the method 700 can further include measuring, by the force-measuring component 124 positioned on the finger-contacting surface 116 of the housing 102, the force generated when the user 654 grips the device 600.

[0112] In some embodiments, the method 700 can further include providing the user 654 with pivoting guidance for pointing the alignment end 104 towards the one shoulder 647 of the user 654. The pivoting guidance can be provided by the visual indicator 144 of the device 600, as described.

[0100] Numerous specific details are set forth herein in order to provide a thorough understanding of the exemplary embodiments described herein. However, it will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that these embodiments may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, procedures and components have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the description of the embodiments. Furthermore, this description is not to be considered as limiting the scope of these embodiments in any way, but rather as merely describing the implementation of these various embodiments.

Claims

CLAIMS1 . A device for measuring one or more physiological parameters of a user, the device comprising: a housing including: an alignment end having an edge that is dimensionally complementary to a body landmark of the user’s chest for positioning the alignment end in alignment with the body landmark; a pivot end positioned opposite the alignment end; a gripping surface extending between the alignment end and the pivot end and shaped to be gripped by a hand of the user; and a body-contacting surface extending between the alignment end and the pivot end and positioned opposite the gripping surface; and at least one sensor for measuring the one or more physiological parameters, the at least one sensor including a first sensor positioned on the body-contacting surface for measuring a first physiological parameter when placed in contact with the user’s chest, wherein the first sensor is arranged on the body-contacting surface such that the first sensor becomes positioned within a threshold distance of a first sensor target location when the device is pivoted around the pivot end to point the alignment end towards one shoulder of the user, the first sensor target location corresponding to a location on the user’s body at which the first physiological parameter is preferably measured, wherein each of the at least one sensor measures one of the one or more physiological parameters when the first sensor becomes positioned within the threshold distance of the first sensor target location.

2. The device of claim 1 , wherein the at least one sensor includes a second sensor positioned on the body-contacting surface for measuring a second physiological parameter when placed in contact with the user’s chest, the second sensor being arranged on the bodycontacting surface such that: the second sensor is positioned within the threshold distance of a second sensor target location when the body-contacting surface is placed against the user’s chest and the edge of the alignment end is in alignment with the body landmark, andthe second sensor remains within the threshold distance of the second sensor target location when the device is pivoted around the pivot end to point the alignment end towards the one shoulder of the user, wherein the second sensor target location corresponds to a location on the user’s body at which the second physiological parameter is preferably measured.

3. The device of claim 2, wherein the second sensor target location comprises the user’s sternum body.

4. The device of any one of claims 2 to 3, wherein the second sensor comprises a bodycontacting surface photoplethysmography sensor.

5. The device of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the first sensor is further arranged on the body-contacting surface such that the first sensor becomes positioned within the threshold distance of a secondary first sensor target location when the device is pivoted around the pivot end to point the alignment end towards a left side of the user’s body and a second edge of the housing is aligned with a second body landmark of the user’s chest.

6. The device of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the housing further includes a fingercontacting surface extending between the alignment end and the pivot end and positioned adjacent to the gripping surface and the body-contacting surface, and the at least one sensor includes a force-measuring component positioned on the finger-contacting surface for measuring a force generated when the user grips the device.

7. The device of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the housing further includes a thumbcontacting surface extending between the alignment end and the pivot end and positioned adjacent to the gripping surface and the body-contacting surface, and the at least one sensor includes a thumb-contacting surface photoplethysmography sensor.

8. The device of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the body landmark comprises the user’s suprasternal notch.

9. The device of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the first sensor target location comprises a second intercostal space of the user.

10. The device of any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the first sensor comprises a digital stethoscope.11 . The device of any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the at least one sensor includes one or more of electrocardiogram electrodes, an accelerometer, and a temperature sensor.

12. The device of any one of claims 1 to 11 , further comprising a visual indicator to provide the user with pivoting guidance for pointing the alignment end towards the one shoulder of the user.

13. The device of claim 12, wherein the visual indicator comprises at least one of an LED pointer and a guiding marker positioned on the housing.

14. The device of any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the threshold distance is 1 inch.

15. A method for measuring one or more physiological parameters of a user using a device, the method comprising: gripping the device in a hand of the user, the device including a housing and at least one sensor for measuring the one or more physiological parameters, the housing including: an alignment end having an edge that is dimensionally complementary to a body landmark of the user’s chest for positioning the alignment end in alignment with the body landmark; a pivot end positioned opposite the alignment end; a gripping surface extending between the alignment end and the pivot end and shaped to be gripped by the hand of the user; and a body-contacting surface extending between the alignment end and the pivot end and positioned opposite the gripping surface; placing the body-contacting surface against the user’s chest; aligning the edge of the alignment end with the body landmark;pivoting the device around the pivot end to point the alignment end towards one shoulder of the user, the pivoting causing a first sensor of the at least one sensor to become positioned within a threshold distance of a first sensor target location, the first sensor being positioned on the body-contacting surface for measuring a first physiological parameter when placed in contact with the user’s chest, the first sensor target location corresponding to a location on the user’s body at which the first physiological parameter is preferably measured; and measuring the one or more physiological parameters with the at least one sensor when the first sensor is positioned within the threshold distance of the first sensor target location.

16. The method of claim 15, wherein the at least one sensor includes a second sensor positioned on the body-contacting surface for measuring a second physiological parameter when placed in contact with the user’s chest, the second sensor being arranged on the bodycontacting surface such that: the second sensor is positioned within the threshold distance of a second sensor target location when the body-contacting surface is placed against the user’s chest and the edge of the alignment end is in alignment with the body landmark, and the second sensor remains within the threshold distance of the second sensor target location when the device is pivoted around the pivot end to point the alignment end towards the one shoulder of the user, wherein the second sensor target location corresponds to a location on the user’s body at which the second physiological parameter is preferably measured.

17. The method of claim 16, wherein the second sensor target location comprises the user’s sternum body.

18. The method of any one of claims 16 to 17, wherein the second sensor comprises a body-contacting surface photoplethysmography sensor.

19. The method of any one of claims 15 to 18, further comprising:pivoting the device around the pivot end to point the alignment end towards a left side of the user’s body; aligning a second edge of the housing with a second body landmark of the user’s chest, the pivoting and aligning causing the first sensor to become positioned within the threshold distance of a secondary first sensor target location; and measuring the one or more physiological parameters with the at least one sensor when the first sensor is positioned within the threshold distance of the secondary first sensor target location.

20. The method of any one of claims 15 to 19, further comprising measuring, by a forcemeasuring component positioned on a finger-contacting surface of the housing, a force generated when the user grips the device, the finger-contacting surface extending between the alignment end and the pivot end and positioned adjacent to the gripping surface and the body-contacting surface.

21. The method of any one of claims 15 to 20, wherein the housing further includes a thumb-contacting surface extending between the alignment end and the pivot end and positioned adjacent to the gripping surface and the body-contacting surface, and the at least one sensor includes a thumb-contacting surface photoplethysmography sensor.

22. The method of any one of claims 15 to 21 , wherein the body landmark comprises the user’s suprasternal notch.

23. The method of any one of claims 15 to 22, wherein the first sensor target location comprises a second intercostal space of the user.

24. The method of any one of claims 15 to 23, wherein the first sensor comprises a digital stethoscope.

25. The method of any one of claims 15 to 24, wherein the at least one sensor includes one or more of electrocardiogram electrodes, an accelerometer, and a temperature sensor.

26. The method of any one of claims 15 to 25, further comprising providing the user with pivoting guidance for pointing the alignment end towards the one shoulder of the user, the pivoting guidance provided using a visual indicator of the device.

27. The method of claim 26, wherein the visual indicator comprises at least one of an LED pointer and a guiding marker positioned on the housing.

28. The method of any one of claims 15 to 27, wherein the threshold distance is 1 inch.

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