System for monitoring a physical condition of a person in a domestic environment and / or for fitness recording applications

Abstract

The invention relates to a system for monitoring a physical condition of a person in a domestic environment, e.g. in the home care sector, and / or for fitness recording applications. The system has an implant (100) for implantation in a person, e.g. an endoprosthesis. A sensor device (10) is integrated in the implant (100). The sensor device is designed to detect and transmit data (13) which are indicative of a current condition of the person. For this purpose, the sensor device can comprise at least one motion sensor (11) for detecting a movement and / or position of the person and / or at least one biomedical sensor (12) for detecting a biological parameter or physiological measured value of the person. The system further comprises a plurality of receiver modules (200), each of which is designed to receive data (13) transmitted by the sensor device (10). The system further comprises an evaluation device (300) which is designed to receive data (13) of the sensor device (10) from the receiver modules (200) and to initiate an action depending on an evaluation of the received data (13). The system can optionally be equipped with a plurality of further modules. Advantageously, a system is provided which enables reliable monitoring of a physical condition of a person in the domestic environment and / or for fitness recording applications.

Description

[0001] DESCRIPTION

[0002] System for monitoring a person's physical condition in a home environment and / or for fitness recording applications

[0003] Technical field

[0004] The invention relates to a system for monitoring a person's physical condition in a domestic environment, e.g. in the home care sector, and / or for fitness recording applications.

[0005] Technical background

[0006] In an aging society, it is difficult to effectively bring innovative technology to patients. In practice, it is known, for example, in home care (the area of ​​healthcare and support of individuals in their home environment) and during leisure activities, to record physical events such as the number of steps, pulse, sleep phases, falls, etc., using wearable devices such as wristwatches or smartphones. In an emergency situation (e.g., a fall), a notification can be sent to an emergency response center to initiate necessary rescue measures. A major disadvantage of these systems, especially for elderly patients, is the need to wear them constantly or put them on daily to detect actions that trigger intervention.

[0007] One example of this is the personal emergency response system (PERS), which, in principle, must be worn by the person concerned day and night as a necklace or bracelet to achieve true effectiveness and maximum reliability. For example, wearing such a system is advisable for the very elderly, dementia patients, or people with (mental or physical) disabilities, as it can send information to relatives or emergency services at an early stage. However, putting on the sensors, integrated into a bracelet, for example, is either impossible for the person concerned to do independently, is simply forgotten, or is considered unnecessary in some cases.

[0008] Another example is recreational sports involving fitness or rehabilitation activities, where tracking movement and strength exercises via wearables is useful, but the reproducibility of these tracking methods is highly dependent on correct use. The functionality of a wearable, such as a smartwatch, is also limited because only a certain size and number of sensors can be integrated. Therefore, alternative technologies are needed for older patients or patients who wish to continue participating in recreational sports. Furthermore, it is known from the prior art to integrate sensor technology into implants. For example, German patent DE 10342823 A1 discloses an implantable prosthesis, such as a hip prosthesis, with at least one accelerometer. The accelerometer is used to record the movement of the prosthesis, for example, to check its fit.Similarly, WO 2005 / 007025 A2 proposes a joint prosthesis with an integrated sensor and counter that can count movements, such as steps, of a joint. Documents EP 1 586 287 A2, EP 2457509 A1, US 10,300,310 B2, and US 2002 / 0183629 A1 represent further prior art in implant sensors, for example, for integrating various biomedical sensors or motion sensors into implants.

[0009] A disadvantage of this and similar state-of-the-art technology is that the known solutions are not sufficiently adapted to the specific requirements and needs for use in the home environment and / or for the fitness sector.

[0010] The invention is therefore based on the objective of creating an improved technology to be able to monitor a person's physical condition in a home environment and / or for fitness recording applications.

[0011] The problem is solved by the features of independent claim 1. Advantageous further developments are specified in the dependent claims and the description.

[0012] A general aspect of the present disclosure relates to a system for monitoring a person's physical condition, preferably in a domestic setting and / or for fitness recording applications (i.e., in the fitness field). The system includes an implant for implantation into a person. That is, the implant is suitable for being implanted into a person (hereinafter also referred to as the implant recipient or patient).

[0013] The implant incorporates a sensor device designed to capture and transmit data indicative of a person's current state, such as their health or movement status. The system also includes several receiver modules, each configured to receive data transmitted by the sensor device. Furthermore, the system includes an evaluation unit configured to receive data from the sensor device via the receiver modules and to initiate an action based on an evaluation of the received data. The evaluation unit is hereinafter also referred to as the main unit. The evaluation unit can be a separate unit or functionally integrated into one of the receiver modules.

[0014] Advantageously, this system provides reliable monitoring of a person's physical condition in a home environment and / or for fitness tracking applications. The sensor device integrated into the implant offers the advantage of maintaining a constant connection with the individual. The multiple receiver modules allow for their placement at various locations within the monitoring area, such as different rooms in the implant recipient's home. This enables particularly reliable monitoring of the recipient's physical condition, as will be explained in more detail below. The evaluation unit allows for flexible responses to different situations, which will also be explained in more detail below.

[0015] In one embodiment, the system has a deactivation device integrated into the implant, configured to irreversibly deactivate, preferably destroy, the sensor device when a predetermined deactivation condition is met. Preferably, the deactivation device is configured to non-invasively and irreversibly destroy a transmission function of the sensor device. For example, the deactivation condition may be met when the deactivation device receives a deactivation instruction or other predetermined command from the evaluation device and / or an expiration date has passed. By way of example only, the implant user could enter a deactivation code to release the deactivation instruction via the evaluation device or via another mobile device that is in signal communication with it. Advantageously, the transmission of sensor data can be deactivated as needed, e.g.,if they are no longer needed. This improves data privacy.

[0016] Furthermore, in another embodiment, the system can be configured to transmit encrypted data between the sensor device, the receiver modules, and / or the evaluation device. This advantageously improves data protection. For this purpose, the sensor device, the receiver modules, and / or the evaluation device can be equipped with an encryption module.

[0017] In another embodiment, the system features a delivery unit integrated into the implant, which can be controlled by the evaluation device. This unit is designed to store an active ingredient, such as an antihistamine or insulin, and release it into the environment of the implant, preferably into the person's body, in response to a corresponding signal from the evaluation device. This optional module allows for optional or automated external intervention in a medical emergency. For example, the module can be filled with an active ingredient (e.g., an antihistamine) to release it in the event of anaphylactic shock, thereby bridging the time until the arrival of emergency medical personnel. One possible embodiment provides that the delivery unit has a loading interface for loading it with the active ingredient while the implant is in place, e.g.,A loading interface that can be filled via a syringe. In other words, this version allows the delivery unit to be loaded and unloaded from the outside even when implanted.

[0018] In another embodiment, the system further comprises an integrated electrical energy storage device for powering the sensor device and preferably for powering other modules of the system integrated into the implant (such as the delivery unit, the deactivation device, etc.). A charging device is also provided for inductively recharging the storage device. This is an external charging device with respect to the implant. For example, the charging device can comprise an induction mat for placement on a chair or bed. This integration into everyday furniture regularly used by the implant recipient enables reliable charging and power supply of the system, thus ensuring uninterrupted functionality. Alternatively, or in addition, the charging device can comprise a portable rechargeable battery (power bar) with induction capability.

[0019] In another embodiment, the receiver modules are designed to be plugged into a standard household electrical outlet and preferably held in place there. This allows for easy installation and distribution of the receiver modules, for example, within a home environment. This enables the receiver modules to be quickly and easily distributed to ensure reliable data acquisition from the sensor device in all desired areas. Alternatively, or in addition, the receiver modules can also be battery-powered.

[0020] In a further embodiment, the sensor device comprises at least one first sensor for detecting movement and / or position of the implant and / or the person. This first sensor is hereinafter referred to as the motion sensor. The motion sensor can, for example, include an inertial sensor, such as an accelerometer and / or a gyroscope. The system is designed to determine, based on motion data from the at least one motion sensor, whether a health-critical movement event, such as a fall or immobility, has occurred. Advantageously, movement of the implant, and thus movement of the implant user, can be detected. For example, steps can be counted for fitness applications, or falls can be detected.

[0021] In a potential advanced version, the system is trained to use movement data collected over a period of time to identify typical, e.g., repetitive, movement patterns of the implant and / or the person, as well as deviations from these patterns. A specific deviation from these typical movement patterns then contributes to determining whether a health-critical movement event, such as a fall or immobility, has occurred. For example, the system could learn typical movement patterns of the implant user over time, perhaps using machine learning methods, to better distinguish these from critical events such as falls. This would improve the system's ability to reliably detect health-critical movement events.

[0022] Furthermore, the system can include a protective device that can be attached to the person's body and / or worn to reduce the risk of fall-related injuries. Preferably, the protective device is a wearable airbag device. The protective device is designed to receive the motion data from the motion sensor and, depending on the received motion data, to initiate the activation of a protective function of the device.

[0023] For example, the airbag device can be designed to receive motion data directly from the motion sensor and initiate (trigger) the activation of the airbag device if the motion data detects a health-critical movement event, such as a fall, in order to reduce the risk of fall-related injuries. In other words, the sensor signals from the motion sensor integrated into the implant can also be advantageously used to trigger an airbag or other comparable protective system attached externally to the person's body. This can prevent fall-related injuries or at least reduce the risk of them. An additional motion sensor integrated into the airbag device can therefore be optionally omitted.

[0024] In another embodiment, the system is configured to derive the position and / or movement of the implant relative to the receiver modules from communication signals between the sensor device and the receiver modules. Advantageously, position and / or movement data of the sensor device, and thus of the implant or the implant holder, can also be determined from the communication signals of the receiver modules in order to, for example, determine movement patterns or the position of the implant (and thus of an implant holder) within the home environment. This improves the determination of movement data. For example, the receiver modules can be configured to derive the position and / or movement of the implant relative to the receiver modules from the signal strength and / or transit time of the signals received by the sensor device.In addition or alternatively, the receiver modules can be designed to generate position data and communicate with each other in order to calculate movement patterns in addition to the sensor device.

[0025] In a further embodiment, the sensor device comprises at least one second sensor for detecting a biological parameter or physiological measurement, preferably of the person. The second sensor is hereinafter referred to as a biomedical sensor. This at least one biomedical sensor can be configured to detect at least one of the following parameters: body temperature, pulse rate, glucose level, lactate level, gas content, and water content of a medium (e.g., blood) adjacent to the implant of the person. Advantageously, the sensor device can be used to monitor biological and / or physiological parameters.

[0026] As stated above, the evaluation device is designed to initiate an action depending on an evaluation of the received data. For example, the evaluation of the received data may include determining whether a health-critical event, such as a fall or other medical emergency, has occurred.

[0027] In one embodiment, the evaluation device can be configured to initiate a predetermined sequence of actions, preferably a cascaded sequence, when a health-critical event occurs, with each health-critical event preferably having its own predetermined sequence of actions. This offers the advantage that different health-critical events can be addressed in a suitably different and adapted manner.

[0028] In one embodiment, the evaluation device can be configured to initiate at least one of the following actions when a health-critical event occurs: contacting the person (implant recipient), querying and / or evaluating additional data from the sensor device, preferably to verify and / or determine the health-critical event more precisely.

[0029] - a notification to a control center or rescue service,

[0030] - a notification of relatives, and

[0031] - Activating the dispensing unit to release the active ingredient if a predetermined dispensing condition for the release of the active ingredient is met.

[0032] The evaluation device can further be configured to perform the aforementioned actions, or a subset thereof, sequentially in a predetermined order, e.g., in a cascaded manner, when a health-critical event occurs. For example, an attempt can first be made to contact the person. If contact is unsuccessful, e.g., because the person does not respond, one or more of the subsequent actions can be carried out, such as notifying relatives and / or an emergency service.

[0033] Preferably, the evaluation device can be configured to query additional data from the sensor device upon the occurrence of a health-critical event, for verification and / or more precise determination of the health-critical event, e.g., to check a health status. For example, after the occurrence of a health-critical event, additional data from which the movement state and / or position of an implant recipient or their pulse can be inferred can be queried. In this case, the evaluation device transmits a corresponding query command to the sensor device via one of the receiver modules.

[0034] Advantageously, if a potentially critical event is detected, further analyses can be initiated via a cascaded chain of commands. For example, detecting a fall and querying additional sensor data (e.g., pulse) allows for a more refined assessment of the situation (e.g., informing only relatives or directly calling an emergency physician). Initially, an attempt is made to contact the implant recipient (e.g., an acoustic signal or a telephone call). If there is no response, further actions can be initiated, such as informing relatives who can then go to the scene to assess the situation.

[0035] The implant can be an endoprosthesis, such as an artificial hip or knee joint. Alternatively, the implant can also be another suitable permanent implant, such as a dental implant. In an alternative embodiment, the system may comprise only one receiver module. In a further embodiment, the evaluation device may be implemented, at least partially, on one or more of the receiver modules. This means that the function of the evaluation device can be implemented wholly or partially on a receiver module. However, it is also possible for the evaluation device to be implemented on a separate device, such as a smartphone, tablet computer, etc.

[0036] Furthermore, the evaluation device can be configured to send the data received from the sensor device's receiver modules to an evaluation server or a cloud computer and receive the data evaluation from there. However, the evaluation device can also be configured to perform the data evaluation itself, or partially so.

[0037] The previously described preferred embodiments and features of the invention can be combined with one another in any way.

[0038] Brief description of the characters

[0039] Further details and advantages of the invention are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. These show:

[0040] Figure 1 is a schematic block diagram illustrating a system for monitoring a person's physical condition in a home environment and / or for fitness recording applications according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0041] Figure 2A shows an implant with an integrated sensor device exchanging data with an external receiver module according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0042] Figure 2B illustrates the workflow of data measurements of the system according to an exemplary implementation;

[0043] Figure 3 shows an application of the system in a domestic environment according to an exemplary embodiment, and

[0044] Figure 4 shows an application of the system in a domestic environment according to a further embodiment.

[0045] The embodiments shown in the figures are at least partially identical, so that similar or identical parts are provided with the same reference numerals and, to avoid repetition, reference is also made to the description of the other embodiments or figures for their explanation.

[0046] Detailed description of exemplary embodiments

[0047] Figure 1 illustrates an example of a system 1 for monitoring a person's physical condition in a home environment and / or for fitness recording applications. The system includes an implant 100 for implantation into a person. A sensor device 10 is integrated into the implant 100. This is shown in Figure 2A by way of example using an embodiment of the implant 100 as an endoprosthesis, here in particular in the form of an artificial hip joint. Figure 2A also shows the sensor device 10 integrated into the implant. The sensor device can comprise one or more sensors. The sensors are each configured to acquire and wirelessly transmit data that is indicative of a current condition, e.g., a current health status or current movement status, of the implant recipient 2.The possibility of integrating a large number of sensors into the implant 100 allows different and / or redundant values ​​regarding the condition of the implant carrier 2 to be recorded, depending on the design of the sensor device.

[0048] The integration of the sensor device 10 into the implant 100 ensures that the sensor device 10 is connected to person 2 at all times. The implantation of the sensor device 10 could be performed in conjunction with a medically necessary procedure, such as the implantation of an artificial hip or knee joint, or other permanent implants. Artificial joints (endoprostheses) are now frequently used from the age of 50, which can lead to approximately one to two revision surgeries per patient over their lifespan.

[0049] Since the sensor device 10 is permanently connected to the implant carrier 2, it does not need to be actively applied. The sensor device 10 can be implanted once by a specialist, precisely aligned, and calibrated accordingly. This allows for a sensor device 10 that is securely and form-fittingly attached to the implant 100, unlike a wearable device which can be tightened arbitrarily with a wristband. A sensor that is too loose, as with a wearable device, has additional degrees of freedom and can lead to inaccurate results. A sensor that is too tightly fitted, like that of a wearable device, can cause discomfort due to prolonged wear (up to 24 / 7) and, due to perspiration, can lead to skin irritation and even contact allergies. The integration of the sensor into the implant solves this problem because there is no skin contact.The positioning of the sensor device 10 described above results in the generation of more reproducible data. False positive events caused by incorrect positioning on the wrist or loose carrying (e.g., in a trouser pocket or handbag) are thus reduced to a minimum.

[0050] The implant 100 can integrate one or more sensors. For example, the sensor device 10 can include at least one motion sensor 11 for recording motion data, such as the movement and / or position of the implant and / or the person. The at least one motion sensor 11 can, for example, include a magnetometer, an acceleration sensor, a vibration sensor, and / or a gyroscope to measure the person's position or acceleration and to derive or detect corresponding events (falls, immobility, etc.). Based on this motion data, the system 100 can thus recognize whether a health-critical movement event, such as a fall or immobility, has occurred in the implant recipient 2. Furthermore, motion data for fitness applications, such as the number of steps taken, etc., can be recorded.

[0051] The sensor device 10 can, for example, further comprise at least one biomedical sensor 12 for recording a biological parameter or physiological measurement of the implant recipient. For instance, such a sensor 12 could record body temperature, pulse rate, glucose level, lactate level, gas content, and / or water content of a medium adjacent to the implant (e.g., blood) of the person. Based on such physiological measurements, data on the health status of the implant recipient can be determined. The recording of biological parameters and / or physiological measurements is advantageous for supporting telemedicine applications.

[0052] As already stated above, various approaches and solutions for integrating sensor technology into a wide range of implants are known in the prior art, including motion sensors and sensors for recording biological parameters. These established techniques can be used for integrating sensors into the Implant 100, which is why they will not be discussed in detail here.

[0053] A particular advantage of the present system 1 lies in its modular design, which allows the system to be flexibly adapted and configured for a wide variety of applications for monitoring a person's physical condition in a home environment and / or for fitness recording applications.

[0054] Thus, as shown in Fig. 1, the system 100 comprises several receiver modules 200, each configured to wirelessly receive data transmitted by the sensor device 10. The receiver modules 200 are also referred to here as external receiver modules because, unlike the implant 100, they are not intended for implantation in the implant carrier 2, but are located externally. The receiver modules can, for example, be distributed within the home environment of the implant carrier 2 in such a way as to ensure reliable reception of data from the sensor device within the desired area of ​​the home.

[0055] System 1 further comprises an evaluation unit (main unit) 300, which is configured to receive data from the sensor device via the receiver modules 200, preferably wirelessly, and to initiate an action depending on the evaluation of the received data. The main unit 300 can be designed as a separate unit or be functionally integrated into one of the receiver modules 200. The main unit 300 can send the received data to a cloud computer 500 or other suitable evaluation server for evaluation and receive the evaluated data back from it. In this case, an evaluation module 310 for evaluating the received data from the sensor device 10 is located on the cloud computer 500 or evaluation server. Alternatively, the main unit 300 can also evaluate the received data directly itself or at least partially on its own.In this case, the evaluation device 300 can itself include an evaluation module 310 for evaluating the data received from the sensor device 10. The evaluation device 300 can also include an emergency call module 320, which is configured to trigger an emergency call upon detection of a health-critical situation of the implant wearer.

[0056] To enable wireless data exchange, preferably bidirectional, the implant, the receiver modules 200, and the evaluation unit 300 are each equipped with a communication module 60 to perform data communication using a short-range wireless connection. For example, the short-range wireless connection can be a WLAN connection, preferably a WLAN connection based on a WLAN standard according to the IEEE 802.11 standard family. Alternatively, the short-range connection can be a Bluetooth connection, an infrared connection, or another non-cellular wireless connection.A wireless short-range connection is defined as a connection whose functioning requires that the directly communicating devices—i.e., the communication device and the stationary transmitter / receiver unit that communicates wirelessly to establish the short-range connection—are preferably less than 20 m apart. Advantageously, a system 1 is provided that enables reliable monitoring of a person's physical condition in a domestic environment and / or for fitness recording applications.

[0057] Fig. 1 further illustrates that additional modules can optionally be integrated into the system 1 in order to equip and configure the system for different application scenarios.

[0058] Thus, the individual system components 100, 200, 300 of system 1 can optionally be equipped with encryption modules 40, which ensure that the data exchanged wirelessly between sensor device 10, receiver modules 200 and evaluation unit 300 is transmitted in encrypted form to improve data protection.

[0059] Furthermore, a deactivation device 20 can optionally be integrated into the implant 100. The deactivation device 20 is designed to non-invasively and irreversibly deactivate, preferably destroy, the sensor device 10 when a predetermined deactivation condition is met. The deactivation device 20 can therefore also be referred to as a kill switch module. Accidental activation of the deactivation device 20 is to be prevented. This thus offers an implant recipient the possibility of permanently and irreversibly terminating the collection and transmission of personal data by the sensor device as needed, without having to remove the implant. It may be sufficient to irreversibly deactivate a data collection function or a transmission function of the sensor device. Deactivation can be achieved physically or chemically, e.g.,in which a fuse required to power the sensor device is deliberately melted.

[0060] To trigger the deactivation device 20, the implant carrier 2 could, for example, enter a deactivation code or deactivation command via the evaluation device 300 or via another mobile device that is in signal communication with it using appropriate application software in order to trigger the deactivation condition.

[0061] Optionally, the implant 100 can also incorporate a delivery unit 30, controllable by the evaluation device 300, which is designed to store an active ingredient and, in response to a corresponding control signal from the evaluation device 300, release it into the environment of the implant, preferably into the body of person 2. For example, the delivery unit 30 can be filled with an active ingredient (e.g., an antihistamine) to release the active ingredient in the event of anaphylactic shock, thereby bridging the time until the arrival of the emergency physician. The delivery unit 30 can, for example, have a fluid-tight active ingredient container with a receiving chamber for the active ingredient. The receiving chamber preferably borders the environment of the implant and has a controllable delivery interface in this area, which can be opened by a control signal to release the active ingredient.

[0062] It is also conceivable that delivery unit 30 has a loading interface 31 for loading the delivery unit with the active ingredient in the implanted state, e.g., a loading interface that can be filled via a syringe. The loading interface 31 and the delivery interface can be provided by the same interface.

[0063] The system preferably further comprises an electrical energy storage device 50 integrated into the implant for powering the sensor device and for powering other modules of the system 1 integrated into the implant (such as the delivery unit, the deactivation device, etc.). This energy storage device 50 can be inductively charged via a charging device 400. For example, the charging device 400 can comprise an induction mat for placement on a piece of furniture or on a bed.

[0064] Figures 2B and 3 illustrate a workflow of data measurements of the system and an exemplary application of the system in a domestic environment.

[0065] As shown in Fig. 3, using an apartment as an example of a monitoring area, a receiver module 200 can be arranged in each room of the implant recipient's home environment that is to be monitored. In any case, the receiver modules 200 should be positioned and distributed relative to each other according to their reception range in such a way that reliable reception is possible in all areas of the home environment where data from the sensor device 10 is to be received. The receiver modules 200 should be able to be retrofitted in homes without any technical difficulties. For example, the receiver modules can be designed so that they can be plugged into a standard electrical outlet in a home's electrical system and held in place there.

[0066] The receiver modules 200, distributed across several rooms, can further form a kind of evaluation network if the receiver modules are additionally configured to detect movement and / or positioning of the sensor device 10 and the implant 100 relative to the receiver modules 200. This can improve the acquisition of motion data. For example, the receiver modules can be configured to derive a position and / or movement of the implant relative to the receiver modules from the signal strength and / or transit time of the signals received by the sensor device. In addition, or alternatively, the receiver modules can be configured to generate position data and communicate with each other in order to calculate movement patterns in addition to the sensor device.

[0067] For example, movements from room to room can also be incorporated into the detection of events. The data quality can be improved by the unchanging positioning of the sensor device 10 relative to the implant 100 and its integration into an evaluation network formed by the receiver modules 200.

[0068] When the implant recipient 2 is at home, the sensor device 10 integrated into the implant 100 registers sensor data about the recipient's current state, such as movement and / or health status. The receiver modules 200, provided they are within range of the sensor device 10, receive the sensor data and forward it to the evaluation device 300. The sensor data can also be processed directly on the receiver modules 200, or on one of them, if the functionality of the evaluation device 300 is implemented there. The processing of the sensor data includes an evaluation of the sensor data, either directly on the evaluation device 300 and / or by transmitting the sensor data to a cloud computer 500, which performs the evaluation and sends it back to the evaluation device 300.

[0069] Depending on the evaluation of the received sensor data, the evaluation device (main unit) 300 can initiate one or more suitable actions, as illustrated below by example scenarios.

[0070] Example scenario 1:

[0071] The implant recipient moves from the living room to the bathroom. A receiver module 200, which also serves as an evaluation unit 300, registers this movement via the sensor unit 10, which includes both a pulse sensor and a motion sensor. The implant recipient remains in this room without any unusual readings from the sensor unit. System 1, e.g., the evaluation unit 300, now queries further possible values ​​from the sensor unit 10, such as the implant recipient's position or pulse. An evaluation of the data reveals, for example, that the implant recipient has not fallen but has been motionless in the bathroom for an extended period. The evaluation unit 300 then performs the following sequence of actions, as illustrated in Figure 2B.A corresponding status message or alert (301) triggers an emergency call module (311) connected to a telecommunications network. Depending on the content of the status message or alert (301), the emergency call module (310) first attempts to contact the implant recipient (311) (e.g., by triggering an audible signal in the recipient's home and / or making a phone call to the recipient). If there is no response, further actions are initiated, such as informing relatives (312) who then go to the location to check on the recipient. If the sensor data indicates a critical health emergency, an alert (313) to an emergency medical service can also be triggered.

[0072] The present system 1 is also suitable for applications in recreational sports, for home care, for rehabilitation after injuries and / or surgeries, as well as for clinical observation and follow-up care. The latter is illustrated by a further example scenario:

[0073] Example scenario 2:

[0074] Following successful implant revision, for example, due to a periprosthetic infection, the patient (2) is either in the clinic for follow-up care or already at home. System 1 uses sensor device 10 to measure systemic parameters at defined intervals or times. These parameters are collected and monitored as part of clinical follow-up (e.g., lactate and temperature) and transmit them to the treating physician for clinical evaluation. Depending on the measured systemic parameters, or if they deviate from typical normal values, the treating physician initiates immediate therapeutic measures in the clinic. In the case of home care applications, the patient is automatically scheduled for a detailed examination and follow-up treatment at the clinic.

[0075] Figure 4 illustrates another embodiment. The special feature of this embodiment is that, in an optional further development, the system 1 can include a protective device 600 that can be attached to and / or worn by person 2 to reduce the risk of fall-related injuries. Preferably, the protective device 600 is a wearable airbag device, for example, in the form of a vest, a belt, or another clothing component. This is illustrated by person 2 shown on the right in Figure 4. This protective device 600 is designed to initiate a protective function, such as the rapid inflation of one or more airbag elements, in the event of a detected fall. The protective device 600 advantageously works in conjunction with the implant 100 and its sensor system 10.The protective device 600 is designed to receive motion data from the motion sensor of the sensor device 10. According to one embodiment, the protective device 600 is configured to receive this motion data directly from the sensor device 10 of the implant 100. For this purpose, the sensor device 10 and the protective device 600 have corresponding communication modules for wireless data transmission. The protective device 600 can also include an evaluation unit designed to detect a health-critical movement event, in particular a fall, based on the received motion data and, depending on this detection, to initiate the activation of the protective function of the protective device 600.Alternatively or additionally, after receiving motion data via the receiver modules 200 and detecting a fall, the evaluation device 300 of system 1 can send a trigger signal to the protective device 600 to initiate its activation.

[0076] By utilizing the motion data from the motion sensor 11 integrated into the implant 100, the external protective device 600 can obtain reliable and precise information about the person's movement and position. This enables rapid and accurate fall detection, allowing the airbag to be triggered in time before impact and thus significantly reducing the risk of fall-related injuries and fractures. Unlike known external airbag systems that require their own sensors (for example, as described in publications US 11,950,645 B2, WO 2020 / 034252 Al, US 9,675,505 B2, US 2022 / 0095711 Al), the use of the implant sensor can optionally eliminate the need for a redundant motion sensor in the protective device 600, which simplifies the external system and can make it more cost-effective.

[0077] The invention is not limited to the preferred embodiments described above. Rather, a multitude of variants and modifications are possible, which also make use of the inventive concept and therefore fall within the scope of protection. In particular, the invention also claims protection for the subject matter and features of the dependent claims independently of the referenced claims. In particular, the individual features of independent claim 1 are each disclosed independently of one another. List of reference numerals

[0078] 1 system

[0079] 2nd person (implant recipient)

[0080] 3 Living area, surveillance area

[0081] 10 Sensor device

[0082] 11 Motion sensor

[0083] 12 Biomedical Sensor

[0084] 13 data

[0085] 20 Deactivation device

[0086] 30 delivery units

[0087] 31 Loading interface

[0088] 40 Encryption module

[0089] 50 energy storage units

[0090] 60 Communication module

[0091] 100 implants

[0092] 101 Integration interface

[0093] 200 receiver module

[0094] 300 Evaluation device (main unit)

[0095] 301 Status Message, Alert

[0096] 310 Evaluation module

[0097] 311 Contacting the patient

[0098] 312 Alerting relatives

[0099] 313 Alerting emergency services

[0100] 320 Emergency Call Module

[0101] 400 charging device

[0102] 500 cloud computers, evaluation servers

[0103] 600 protective device

Claims

REQUIREMENTS 1. System (1) for monitoring a person's physical condition in a home environment and / or for fitness recording applications, comprising: an implant (100) for implantation into a person, e.g., an endoprosthesis, wherein the implant (100) incorporates a sensor device (10) configured to acquire and transmit data (13) indicative of the person's current condition; several receiver modules (200), each configured to receive data (13) transmitted by the sensor device (10); and an evaluation device (300) configured to receive data (13) from the sensor device (10) from the receiver modules (200) and to initiate an action depending on an evaluation of the received data (13).

2. System (1) according to claim 1, further comprising a deactivation device (20) integrated into the implant (100), which is configured to irreversibly deactivate, preferably destroy, the sensor device (10) when a predetermined deactivation condition is present.

3. System (1) according to claim 2, wherein the deactivation condition is present when the deactivation device (20) receives a deactivation instruction from the evaluation device (300) and / or an expiry date has expired.

4. System (1) according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising a delivery unit (30) integrated into the implant (100) and controllable by the evaluation device (300), which is configured to store an active ingredient, e.g. an antihistamine or insulin, and to release it into the environment of the implant (100), preferably into the body of the person, in response to a corresponding control by the evaluation device (300).

5. System (1) according to claim 4, wherein the delivery unit (30) has a loading interface (31) for loading the delivery unit (30) with the active ingredient in the implanted state of the implant (100), e.g. a loading interface that can be filled via a syringe.

6. System (1) according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising a storage device (50) for electrical energy integrated into the implant for supplying energy to the sensor device (10) and preferably further modules of the system (1) integrated into the implant; and a charging device (400) via which the storage device (50) can be inductively charged, wherein the charging device (400) comprises an induction mat for placement on a piece of furniture or on a bed and / or a portable rechargeable battery (power bar) with induction function.

7. System (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the receiver modules (200) are each designed to be pluggable into and held in a power outlet of a domestic power network.

8. System (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the system (1) is configured to transmit encrypted data between the sensor device (10), the receiver modules (200) and the evaluation device (300).

9. System (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the sensor device (10) comprises at least one motion sensor (11) for detecting movement and / or position of the implant and / or the person, for example an inertial sensor; and the system (1) is configured to determine, on the basis of motion data from the at least one motion sensor (11), whether a health-critical movement event, such as a fall or immobility, has occurred.

10. System (1) according to claim 9, wherein the system (1) is configured to determine, on the basis of the movement data recorded over a period of time, typical, e.g. repetitive, movement patterns of the implant. (100) and / or the person and deviations therefrom, whereby a certain deviation from the typical movement patterns is taken into account in determining whether a health-critical movement event, such as a fall or inability to move, has occurred.

11. System (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the system is configured to derive a position and / or a movement of the implant (100) relative to the receiver modules (200) from communication signals between the sensor device (10) and the receiver modules (200).

12. System (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the sensor device (10) comprises at least one biomedical sensor (12) for detecting a biological parameter or physiological measurement, preferably of the person.

13. System (1) according to claim 12, wherein the at least one biomedical sensor (12) is configured to detect at least one of the following parameters: a body temperature, a pulse value, a glucose value, a lactate value, a gas content, a water content of a medium adjacent to the implant (100) of the person.

14. System (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the evaluation of the received data includes a determination of whether a health-critical event has occurred.

15. System according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the evaluation device (300) is configured to initiate a predetermined sequence, preferably a cascaded sequence, of actions when a health-critical event occurs, wherein preferably different health-critical events are each assigned their own predetermined sequence of actions.

16. System according to claim 14 or 15, wherein the evaluation device (300) is configured to verify and / or more accurately determine the ge- in the event of a health-critical event. to query additional data from the sensor device (10) in the event of a health-critical event.

17. System (1) according to one of claims 14 to 16, wherein the evaluation device (300) is configured to initiate at least one of the following actions when a health-critical event occurs: contacting the person, Querying and / or evaluating additional data from the sensor device (10) to verify and / or more accurately determine the health-critical event, Notification of a control center and / or an emergency service, Notification of relatives, Controlling a dispensing unit according to claim 4 to dispense the active ingredient if a predetermined dispensing condition for the dispensing of the active ingredient is met.

18. System (1) according to claim 17, wherein the evaluation device (300) is configured to perform several of the actions in a predetermined sequence, the sequence preferably depending on the type of health-critical event that has occurred.

19. System (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the evaluation device (300) is implemented at least partially on one or more of the receiver modules (200); and / or the evaluation device (300) is configured to send the data received from the receiver modules (200) of the sensor device (10) to an evaluation server or a cloud computer (500) and to receive the evaluation of the data from there.

20. System (1) according to claim 9, further comprising an airbag device (600) attachable to the body of the person, which is designed to receive the motion data of the motion sensor (11) and, depending on the received motion data, preferably depending on an evaluation of the received motion data, to initiate an activation of the airbag device.

21. System according to claim 20, wherein the airbag device is configured to receive the motion data of the motion sensor directly from the sensor device (10), and / or to initiate the activation of the airbag device if a health-critical movement event, e.g. a fall, is detected based on the motion data in order to reduce the risk of fall-related injuries.

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