Sensor module for collecting biosignals

Abstract

The present invention relates to a sensor module for collecting biosignals. The sensor module for collecting biosignals measures biosignals from a user and comprises: an inner part that is in contact with the user's finger; an outer part coupled to the outer side of the inner part; and a sensor part including a photoplethysmography (PPG) signal collection sensor that irradiates light from the inner part toward the user's finger and receives light reflected from the user to collect PPG signals of the user, wherein, when the inner part and the outer part are coupled to each other, a C-shape with one side open is formed such that the user's finger is in contact with the inner circumferential surface of the inner part.

Description

Sensor module for collecting biosignals

[0001] The present invention relates to a sensor module for collecting biosignals, wherein the sensor module secures stable adhesion and constant contact pressure even with variations in finger thickness or shape through the combination of an inner part and an outer part that are open on one side and an elastically changeable cover structure, thereby enabling the universal collection and processing of biosignals from a user regardless of the user's finger size.

[0002] It is important to collect high-quality biosignals in ring-type or watch-type biosignal collection devices despite changes in wearing position or deviations in contact pressure.

[0003] In particular, when collecting PPG signals, it is important to prevent light leakage to the outside and to prevent distortion of the AC component due to micro-slip, given the characteristics of PPG signals collected by optical means. Also, since blood flow in the user's extremities is sensitive to temperature, body position, and activity intensity, it is important to resolve the problem of false detection to improve the quality when collecting biosignals.

[0004] Conventional ring-type or watch-type biosignal collection devices have the disadvantage of inconsistent signal-to-noise ratios, particularly because it is difficult to maintain uniform contact pressure with the finger. Additionally, providing ring-type biosignal collection devices in different sizes to fit the user's finger size is also not effective. Furthermore, there are limitations in supplying power to collect biosignal signals for extended periods or in effectively utilizing battery power, so it is necessary to resolve these problems.

[0005] The present invention was devised to solve the aforementioned problem, and aims to provide a sensor module for collecting biosignals that can universally collect and process biosignals from a user regardless of the user's finger size by ensuring stable adhesion and constant contact pressure even with variations in finger thickness or shape through the combination of an inner part and an outer part that are open on one side and an elastically changeable cover structure.

[0006] A sensor module for collecting biosignals according to an embodiment of the present invention is a sensor module for collecting biosignals that measures biosignals from a user, comprising: an inner part that contacts the user's finger; an outer part coupled to the outer side of the inner part; and a sensor part including a PPG signal collecting sensor that irradiates light from the inner part toward the user's finger and receives light reflected from the user to collect the user's PPG (Photoplethysmography) signal, wherein when the inner part and the outer part are coupled, they are formed in a C shape with one side open so that the user's finger contacts the inner surface of the inner part.

[0007] In addition, the above PPG collection sensor may include multiple units on a printed circuit board.

[0008] In addition, the sensor part may further include at least one of a temperature sensor that measures the user's skin temperature and an accelerometer that detects the user's movement.

[0009] In addition, data collected by the above-mentioned PPG collection sensor, temperature sensor, and acceleration sensor can be transmitted externally via wired or wireless connection.

[0010] In addition, the inner part and the outer part may be made of an elastically changeable material.

[0011] In addition, it may include a cover made of an elastically changeable material that is coupled to the outer perimeter of the above outer part.

[0012] In addition, the cover is formed in a C shape with an opening on one side, and the arc length in the circumferential direction may be greater than the arc length in the circumferential direction of the outer part so as to completely enclose the outer part.

[0013] Additionally, the cover may have a receiving groove formed on the inner surface side for receiving the outer part, and a seating groove formed on one side of the opening for seating a wire extending from the outer part and the inner part.

[0014] In addition, at least a portion of the wire may extend to the outside through the space of the opening.

[0015] In addition, a rib that wraps around at least a portion of the inner surface of the inner part may be formed on the upper part of the receiving groove.

[0016] In addition, it may include a cover that is coupled to the outer circumference of the outer part and includes a variable adjustment part whose circumferential length is adjusted to fit the size of the user's finger.

[0017] In addition, a seating portion on one side of the variable adjustment portion is provided for the outer part to be seated, and a fastening rib that holds the edge of the inner part may be formed on the upper part of the seating portion.

[0018] In addition, the sensor part is placed on a printed circuit board, and the printed circuit board is supported by an elastic support member, one side of the elastic support member is connected to the printed circuit board and is bent into a "C" shape to provide elastic force, and the other side of the elastic support member can be connected to a fixing part provided on the outer part.

[0019] In addition, the fixed part may have an open center side and be formed in the shape of a closed curved band, and may be formed with the same curvature as the inner part or the outer part.

[0020] A sensor module for collecting biosignals according to an embodiment of the present invention secures stable adhesion and constant contact pressure even with variations in the thickness or shape of the finger through the combination of an inner part and an outer part that are open on one side and an elastically changeable cover structure, thereby enabling the universal collection and processing of biosignals from the user regardless of the user's finger size.

[0021] The present invention ensures wearability and versatility. Specifically, the sensor module is configured as a C-shape with one side open and includes a cover made of an elastic material to implement a one-size-fits-all structure, thereby enabling stable contact and long-term wear regardless of the user's finger size.

[0022] The sensor module of the present invention enables continuous monitoring of biosignals and can provide a system capable of automatically and continuously measuring and monitoring biosignals (oxygen saturation, pulse, irregular pulse wave, respiratory rate, continuous blood pressure estimation, skin temperature, body temperature) in conjunction with a control module and a server provided independently of the sensor module.

[0023] The present invention enables the acquisition of high-quality signals by optimizing signal quality and reducing noise. That is, the control module can select a high-quality signal by periodically selecting the optimal sensor among a plurality of PPG sensors to control data collection.

[0024] Furthermore, interoperability with clinical and in-hospital systems can be enhanced. Specifically, the results derived from the aforementioned server are linked with external systems, such as the hospital's EMR (Electronic Medical Record), to enable integrated central ward monitoring and alarm management.

[0025] The present invention improves operational efficiency and maintenance convenience. The sensor module is implemented to be chargeable through a control module, and the control module can collectively charge and manage multiple control modules through a charging device provided in the form of a multi-charging station, thereby reducing field operating costs and maintenance burdens.

[0026] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a biosignal collection and processing system according to an embodiment of the present invention,

[0027] FIG. 2 is a drawing illustrating a sensor module, a control module, and a mounting part.

[0028] FIG. 3 is a drawing showing a state in which a sensor module, a control module, and a mounting part are worn on a finger.

[0029] FIG. 4 is a drawing illustrating a sensor module,

[0030] FIG. 5 is a drawing showing the state in which the cover and the sensor module are separated.

[0031] A drawing showing the internal state of the sensor module of FIG. 6,

[0032] Fig. 7 is a cross-sectional view of Fig. 6,

[0033] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the cover

[0034] Fig. 9 is a cross-sectional view of Fig. 8

[0035] FIG. 10 is a drawing showing the state in which a cover according to another embodiment of FIG. 2 is applied.

[0036] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the cover adopted in FIG. 10.

[0037] FIG. 12 is a front view of the state in which a sensor module is combined with the cover of FIG. 11.

[0038] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a control module,

[0039] FIG. 14 is a drawing showing the state in which the control module and the mounting part are separated.

[0040] FIG. 15 is a drawing showing the state in which the control module of FIG. 14 is mounted on the mounting part.

[0041] FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a charging device,

[0042] FIG. 17 is an enlarged view of a part of FIG. 16.

[0043] FIG. 18 is a rear view of FIG. 16,

[0044] FIG. 19 is a perspective view showing the interior of FIG. 16,

[0045] FIG. 20 is a drawing showing the state in which a control module is inserted into FIG. 16.

[0046] FIG. 21 is a drawing showing the stacked charging device of FIG. 16.

[0047] Hereinafter, various embodiments of the present invention are described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Since various embodiments of the present invention may be subject to various modifications and may have various forms, specific embodiments are illustrated in the drawings and described in detail. However, this is not intended to limit the various embodiments of the present invention to specific forms, and it should be understood that they include all modifications and / or equivalents and substitutions that fall within the spirit and scope of the various embodiments of the present invention. In relation to the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals have been used for similar components.

[0048] Expressions such as "comprising" or "may comprise" that may be used in various embodiments of the present invention indicate the existence of the disclosed function, operation, or component, etc., and do not limit one or more additional functions, operations, or components, etc. Furthermore, in various embodiments of the present invention, terms such as "comprising" or "having" are intended to specify the existence of the features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof described in the specification, and should be understood as not precluding the existence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

[0049] When it is stated that a component is "connected" to another component, it should be understood that the component may be directly connected to the other component, or that a new component may exist between the component and the other component. On the other hand, when it is stated that a component is "directly connected" or "directly coupled" to another component, it should be understood that no new component exists between the component and the other component.

[0050] The terms used in the various embodiments of the present invention are used merely to describe specific embodiments and are not intended to limit the various embodiments of the present invention. The singular expression includes the plural expression unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0051] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein, including technical or scientific terms, have the same meaning as generally understood by those skilled in the art to which the various embodiments of the present invention pertain.

[0052] Terms such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries should be interpreted as having meanings consistent with their meanings in the context of the relevant technology, and should not be interpreted in an ideal or overly formal sense unless explicitly defined in the various embodiments of the present invention.

[0053]

[0054] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. The present invention provides a sensor module (10) that enables continuous monitoring of biosignals. The sensor module (10) according to the present invention can provide a biosignal collection and processing system that enables automatic and continuous measurement and monitoring of biosignals in conjunction with a control module (20) and a server (30).

[0055] A sensor module (10) for collecting biosignals according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises: an inner part (101) that contacts the user's finger; an outer part (102) coupled to the outer side of the inner part (101); and a sensor part (103) including a PPG collecting sensor that irradiates light from the inner part (101) toward the user's finger and receives light reflected from the user to collect the user's PPG (Photoplethysmography) signal. When the inner part (101) and the outer part (102) are coupled, they are formed in a C shape with one side open so that the user's finger contacts the inner surface of the inner part (101). Each component is described in detail below.

[0056]

[0057] The sensor module (10) is a sensor for measuring biosignals from a user and includes an inner part, an outer part, and a sensor part. According to an embodiment of the present invention, the sensor module (10) is formed in a C shape with one side open. The inner surface of the C shape contacts a finger to collect biosignals from the user. According to the present embodiment, the sensor module (10) is provided with a sensor part (103) including a PPG signal collection sensor (11, 12) for collecting PPG signals, a first temperature sensor (13) for measuring the user's body temperature (skin temperature), and an acceleration sensor (14) for detecting the user's movement.

[0058] As illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 3, the sensor module (10) is positioned to be fitted onto and in contact with the user's finger. Using the user's PPG signal collected by the sensor module (10), the user's continuous blood pressure, oxygen saturation, pulse rate, irregular pulse wave, and respiratory rate can be calculated. The PPG signal collection sensors (11, 12) irradiate light from the inner part (101) toward the user's finger and receive the light reflected from the user to collect the user's PPG (Photoplethysmography) signal. Additionally, the user's skin temperature and movement can be continuously measured and monitored by the first temperature sensor (13) and the accelerometer.

[0059] According to the present embodiment, the PPG signal collecting sensors (11, 12) for collecting PPG signals are provided in multiple numbers. Specifically, according to the embodiment of the present invention, the PPG signal collecting sensors include a first PPG collecting sensor (11) and a second PPG collecting sensor (12).

[0060] Additionally, among the plurality of sensors, a sensor that collects a PPG signal of optimal quality can be periodically selected. Specifically, by the control module (20), a sensor that receives a PPG signal of optimal quality among the plurality of sensors is periodically selected, and a PPG signal can be collected from a user using the sensor that senses the PPG signal of optimal quality.

[0061] Referring to FIGS. 6 and 7, the sensor module (10) is formed by combining an inner part (101) that forms an inner surface side and an outer part (102) that is coupled to the outer side of the inner part (101) and forms an outer surface side. Inside the combined inner part (101) and the outer part (102), a space is formed in which a printed circuit board (17) is disposed, on which the first PPG collection sensor (11), the second PPG collection sensor (12), the first temperature sensor (13), and the acceleration sensor (14) are mounted. The sensor part (103) includes a PPG signal collection sensor. According to the present embodiment, the sensor part (103) includes the first PPG collection sensor (11), the second PPG collection sensor (12), the first temperature sensor (13), and the acceleration sensor (14).

[0062] According to the present embodiment, the inner part (101) and the outer part (102) may be made of a material that can provide a comfortable feeling to the user when worn, such as an elastically deformable material. The material may be selected from silicone, TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane), TPE (Thermoplastic Elastomer), Medical-Grade Rubber (Latex-Free), and polyurethane foam, or at least one of these materials may be combined.

[0063] The printed circuit board (17) is arranged in an arc shape to match the shape of the sensor module (10), and the first and second PPG collection sensors (11, 12), the first temperature sensor (13), and the acceleration sensor (14) are provided on one side of the printed circuit board (17). A circuit pattern is formed on the printed circuit board (17) to electrically connect and transmit signals output from the sensors, and a power supply path is provided to distribute power supplied from the control module (20) to the sensors. In addition, the printed circuit board (17) acts as a mechanical support so that the sensors can be stably mounted. The first and second PPG collection sensors (11, 12) are optical sensors, and the first temperature sensor (13) may be a contact sensor using elements such as a thermistor or a thermocouple.

[0064] The printed circuit board (17) is designed and arranged in an arc shape to align with the curvature of the sensor module (10) and the shape of the wearer's finger, thereby allowing the first and second PPG collection sensors (11, 12) to stably contact the skin surface and maintain measurement accuracy even when worn for a long time. The first and second PPG collection sensors (11, 12) are provided protruding from the inner circumference of the inner part (101) to be in close contact with the finger, and their upper surfaces may be made of a transparent material for light transmission.

[0065] On one side of the printed circuit board (17), the first and second PPG collection sensors (11, 12), the first temperature sensor (13), and the acceleration sensor (14) are arranged without interference with each other, enabling the simultaneous collection of multiple biological signals. The first and second PPG collection sensors (11, 12) are optical sensors that can precisely detect blood oxygen saturation, pulse wave fluctuations, irregular pulse waves, etc., using different wavelengths (e.g., red light and infrared light). Among the multiple sensors, the sensor with the optimal signal quality can be selected by the control module (20) as the sensor with excellent signal-to-noise ratio (SNR). The first PPG signal collection sensor (11) or the second PPG signal collection sensor (12) may each include a plurality of light sources that irradiate different wavelengths and a detector (photodiode) that receives light reflected from the light sources.

[0066] In addition, the first temperature sensor (13) is a contact sensor using elements such as a thermistor or a thermocouple, and the sensor module (10) can stably collect accurate temperature signals by being in close contact with the skin of the finger. In this way, the sensor module (10) is worn on the patient's finger for a long time without contact failure and works in conjunction with the accelerometer (14) to ensure the stability of the skin temperature signal considering the user's movement, thereby enabling the acquisition of reliable body temperature data considering the operating environment.

[0067] In addition, according to an embodiment of the present invention, the printed circuit board (17) of the sensor module (10) is mounted by an elastic support member (18). One side of the elastic support member (18) is connected to the printed circuit board (17) and is bent into a "C" shape to provide elastic force, and the other side of the elastic support member (18) is connected to a fixing member (19) provided in the outer part (102). The elastic support member (18) is formed in a "C" shape so that elastic force can be easily provided.

[0068] The fixed part (19) is formed in the shape of a closed curved band with an open center side and is formed approximately with the curvature of the sensor module (10). That is, the curvature of the fixed part (19) is formed with the same curvature as the inner part (101) or the outer part (102). The fixed part (19) is formed in the shape of a hollow band to reduce the weight of the sensor module (10), and the pressure repeatedly received by the printed circuit board (17) due to the pressure when the sensor module (10) comes into close contact with the user can be cushioned by the elastic support part (18).

[0069] In addition, according to the present embodiment, a wire (15) for power supply and signal transmission is connected to one side of the sensor module (10), and a connection part (16) connected to the control module (20) is provided at the other end of the wire (15). Meanwhile, the PPG signal, acceleration signal, and body temperature signal collected by the sensor module (10) can be transmitted to the control module (20) via a wired connection, or can be transmitted via a wireless communication method. The wireless communication method can be implemented as one or more of the following: a Bluetooth communication method for short-range wireless communication, a Wi-Fi communication method through a wireless network within a hospital or home, a ZigBee method for low-power long-range communication, an ANT+ method for medical data transmission, and a LoRa method for a low-power wide-area network.

[0070]

[0071] As illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5, a cover (80) made of an elastically deformable material is attached to the outer perimeter of the sensor module (10). The cover (80) is detachably attached to the sensor module (10). Through the cover (80), the sensor module (10) can be stably adhered to even with changes in the user's finger size or prolonged wear, and the contact force of the sensor module (10) can be stably maintained.

[0072] As illustrated in FIG. 8, the cover (80) is formed in a C shape with an opening on one side, and is formed to accommodate the C-shaped sensor part (10) inside and completely enclose the outer surface of the sensor part (10). That is, the arc length in the circumferential direction of the cover (80) is formed to be greater than the arc length in the circumferential direction of the outer part (102) so as to completely enclose the outer part (102). Accordingly, the cover (80) protects the sensor part (10) and at the same time evenly distributes the pressure applied to the user's skin, thereby minimizing discomfort when worn.

[0073] As illustrated in FIG. 9, the cover (80) has a receiving groove (81) formed on its inner side for receiving the sensor module (10), and a seating groove (82) formed on one side of the opening for seating a wire (15) extending from the outer part (102) and the inner part (101). The seating groove (82) may have a concave cross-section to prevent the wire (15) from being dislodged by external impact or movement, and at least a portion of the wire (15) extends outward through the space of the opening. According to the present embodiment, the wire (15) is connected to the control module (20).

[0074] Additionally, according to an embodiment of the present invention, the cover (80) has a rib (83) formed in the receiving groove (81) that surrounds at least a portion of the inner surface of the sensor module (10). The rib (83) increases the bonding force between the sensor module (10) and the cover (80), stably maintains the position of the sensor module (10), and prevents minute shaking or gaps that may occur during measurement.

[0075] Additionally, according to an embodiment of the present invention, a rib (83) is formed in the receiving groove (81) of the cover (80) to surround at least a portion of the inner surface of the sensor module (10). The rib (83) increases the bonding force between the sensor module (10) and the cover (80), stably maintains the position of the sensor module (10), and prevents minute shaking or gaps that may occur during measurement.

[0076] Furthermore, the cover (80) may be made of a medically certified elastic material such as silicone, TPU, or TPE, and is resistant to sweat or moisture and easy to wash and disinfect, thereby ensuring both hygiene and durability even in a repeated wearing environment. In addition to protecting the sensor module (10) from mechanical shock or contamination, the cover (80) improves the comfort of wearing on the user's finger.

[0077]

[0078] Meanwhile, as illustrated in FIG. 10, according to another embodiment of the present invention, the cover (100) may be provided with a seating portion (120) on which the sensor module (10) is seated, and may include a variable adjustment portion (110) that can adjust the length in the circumferential direction while wrapping around the user's finger.

[0079] As illustrated in FIGS. 11 and 12, the mounting portion (120) has a groove formed on its inner side for mounting the sensor module (10), and a fastening rib (121) is formed on the upper side of the mounting portion (120) to hold the edge of the sensor module (10). More specifically, a mounting portion (120) is provided on one side of the variable adjustment portion (110) for mounting the outer part (102), and the fastening rib (121) provided on the upper side of the mounting portion holds the edge of the inner part (101).

[0080] The variable adjustment part (110) may be formed in the shape of a strip having a predetermined width and may be connected by Velcro at the end. A wire hole (130) is formed in the variable adjustment part (110) through which a wire (15) is drawn out when the sensor module (10) is seated.

[0081]

[0082] Meanwhile, referring to FIG. 1, according to one embodiment of the present invention, a biosignal collection and processing system using the sensor module (10) is provided. The biosignal collection and processing system includes a sensor module (10), a control module (20), and a server (30). Since the sensor module (10) has been described above, a repeated description is omitted, and the control module (20) and the server (30) will be described in detail.

[0083]

[0084] The control module (20) controls the sensor module (10) and receives the PPG signal. Additionally, the control module (20) receives acceleration signals and body temperature signals collected by the acceleration sensor (14) and the first temperature sensor (13) provided in the sensor module (10). The control module (20) transmits the PPG signal, acceleration signal, and body temperature signals received through the sensor module (10) to the server (30).

[0085] In addition, the control module (20) can be connected to a gateway device (60) (e.g., smartphone, tablet, etc.) via NFC (Near Field Communication) or a cellular communication network (LTE, 5G, etc.), thereby enabling the data of the sensor module (10) to be reliably transmitted to a remote server (30).

[0086] The control module (20) periodically selects a sensor that receives a PPG signal of optimal quality among a plurality of sensors provided in the sensor module (10) to collect a PPG signal, and controls the sensor module (10) to collect a PPG signal from a user using the sensor that senses the PPG signal of optimal quality. The control module (20) may be provided in a form that can be worn by a user. According to the present embodiment, the control module (20) may be detachably coupled to a mounting part (90) worn on the wrist.

[0087]

[0088] The control module (20) controls the sensor module (10) and receives a PPG signal generated from the sensor module (10). Additionally, the control module (20) receives acceleration signals and body temperature signals collected by an acceleration sensor (14) and a first temperature sensor (13) provided in the sensor module (10), and these signals include data that reflect the user's movement, changes in body temperature, and blood flow status in real time. The control module (20) transmits the PPG signal, acceleration signal, and body temperature signal received through the sensor module (10) to a server (30), and the transmission can be performed not only via wired transmission but also via wireless transmission.

[0089] The control module (20) can continuously collect biosignals in an unconscious environment of the user or automatically change the biosignal collection schedule to a low-power mode depending on the battery (26) environment. For example, when operating in a low-power mode depending on the remaining battery (26) level, the collection cycle of biosignals collected by the sensor module (10) can be increased compared to the normal mode.

[0090] Wireless transmission methods may include Bluetooth for short-range wireless communication, Wi-Fi based on hospital or home networks, ZigBee for low-power long-range communication, ANT+ for communication between medical devices, and LoRa for wide-area networks, and one or more of these may be selected and implemented.

[0091] In addition, the control module (20) can be connected to a gateway device (60) (e.g., smartphone, tablet, etc.) via NFC (Near Field Communication) or a cellular communication network (LTE, 5G, etc.), thereby enabling the data of the sensor module (10) to be reliably transmitted to a remote server (30) or a hospital management system. As a result, the user's biometric data can be synchronized in real time with a hospital central monitoring system or a cloud server to quickly detect abnormal signs in the patient.

[0092] The control module (20) periodically selects a sensor that receives a PPG signal of optimal quality among a plurality of PPG sensors provided in the sensor module (10) to collect PPG signals, and controls the sensor module (10) to collect PPG signals from the user using the sensor of optimal quality. By operating in this manner, data distortion caused by external noise or user movement can be minimized, and highly reliable data can be secured. The signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) can be used to select a sensor with good signal quality. That is, the control module (20) can select a sensor that senses a signal with a high signal-to-noise ratio as the sensor that received a signal of good quality.

[0093] Specifically, according to the present embodiment, with reference to FIG. 1, the control module (20) includes a receiving unit (21), an input unit (22), a display unit (23), a communication unit (24), a second temperature sensor (25), and a battery (26).

[0094] The receiver (21) receives the PPG signal received by the sensor module (10). Additionally, the receiver (21) receives the acceleration signal sensed by the acceleration sensor (14) provided in the sensor module (10) and the body temperature signal measured by the first temperature sensor (13). The receiver (21) can filter the signal containing noise or store it in a buffer and transmit it to the server (30).

[0095] The communication unit (24) communicates with the server (30). The communication unit (24) transmits the PPG signal, acceleration signal, and body temperature signal received from the receiving unit (21) to the server (30), and can perform data transmission and reception with the server (30) through various wireless communication methods, such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, ZigBee, ANT+, LoRa, NFC, LTE, and 5G. Of course, the data can be transmitted to the server (30) via a wired method. Data such as the PPG signal transmitted to the server (30) can be linked in real-time with a central monitoring device within the hospital or a cloud-based remote management system.

[0096] The display unit (23) receives and displays biometric information obtained by processing data such as the PPG signal from the server (30). That is, the PPG signal, acceleration signal, and body temperature signal are processed by a predetermined algorithm provided in the server (30) and converted into heart rate, oxygen saturation, irregular pulse wave, body temperature change, activity level indicator, etc., and such biometric information is provided to the user through the display unit (23) of the control module (20). Of course, the biometric information can be provided to and shared with other medical personnel. The display unit (23) can display information in the form of a single numerical value, a graph, a waveform, or an alarm message.

[0097] The input unit (22) provides control commands to the sensor module (10). The input unit (22) may be provided as a touch-type on the display unit (23) or as a button-type on the body of the control module (20). Through the input unit (22), the user can perform commands such as turning the power on / off of the sensor module (10), patient registration, initiation of measurement, network settings, and data correction commands such as patient information. Additionally, the input unit (22) may be configured to include a user permission management function so that medical staff and patients can access different menus.

[0098] The second temperature sensor (25) is provided in the control module (20) and can detect the temperature of the user's skin surface or the surrounding environment to correct the reliability of the body temperature signal received from the first temperature sensor (13). Through this, the accuracy of the body temperature measurement can be ensured.

[0099] According to an embodiment of the present invention, as illustrated in FIG. 13, the second temperature sensor (25) may be provided on the upper surface of the control module (20), and an IR (Infrared) sensor may be employed. The IR sensor can detect infrared radiation emitted from the surface of the user's skin and measure the skin temperature in a non-contact manner. The second temperature sensor (25) can measure body temperature, for example, by placing the control module (20) against the user's forehead.

[0100] The battery (26) provides power to the control module (20). The battery (26) is rechargeable and can be recharged via a wireless charging method or a wired multi-charging station. Additionally, the battery (26) performs the function of supplying power to the control module (20) itself while simultaneously stably supplying power to the sensor module (10). If necessary, a Battery Management System (BMS) may be included to optimize charging and discharging efficiency and prevent overcharging or over-discharging. The battery (26) can be implemented to enable long-term operation of the control module (20) (e.g., securing an available time of 5 days or more).

[0101] Accordingly, the control module (20) integrates the functions of collecting, communicating, displaying, and controlling biosignals, thereby managing the patient's condition in real time and supporting monitoring and treatment by medical staff.

[0102]

[0103] The mounting portion (90) is provided to stably mount the control module (20). As illustrated in FIG. 14, according to the present embodiment, the mounting portion (90) is formed as a watch type that can be worn on a user's wrist. According to the present embodiment, the mounting portion (90) includes a coupling portion, a strap (92), and a window (911).

[0104] The above coupling portion is a part to which the control module (20) is detachably coupled, and is formed in a cuboid shape that roughly corresponds to the external shape of the control module (20). An inlet portion (912) into which the control module (20) is fitted and inserted is formed on one side of the coupling portion, and the guide surface of the inlet portion (912) may be formed at an angle to facilitate positional alignment when the control module (20) is inserted. A window (911) is formed in the coupling portion so that the display portion (23) of the control module (20) can be exposed to the outside.

[0105] The strap (92) is attached to both sides of the connecting part and is provided to be worn on the user's wrist. The strap (92) can be adjusted in length and fastened via a buckle, snap, Velcro, or magnetic fastening method, and can accommodate various wrist sizes. Additionally, the strap (92) can be formed from a material that causes minimal skin irritation and provides comfort even when worn for a long time, such as silicone, TPU, TPE, or nylon fabric.

[0106] The above window (911) is provided to allow observation of the extent of display on the control module (20). The above window (911) may be provided in an open form without any additional components. Meanwhile, the above window (911) may be provided covered with a transparent or translucent material, so that the screen display of the control module (20) can be provided to the user without distortion. As shown in FIG. 15, when the control module (20) is inserted into the mounting part (90), the display part (23) is exposed to the outside through the window (911), allowing the user to observe the display information.

[0107] Additionally, the control module (20) is provided with a pin coupling portion (28) for the connection portion (16) of the charging terminal (27) of the battery (26) and the data transmission wire (15). When the control module (20) is coupled through the inlet portion (912), the pin coupling portion (28), where the charging terminal (27) and the connection portion (16) of the wire (15) connected to the sensor module (10) are coupled, is exposed so as to be observable from the outside. Since the mounting portion (90) allows the control module (20) to be detachably coupled, the replacement of the mounting portion (90) itself is easy, making maintenance convenient, and the effect of being able to separate the control module (20) for charging or storage is provided.

[0108]

[0109] The server (30) receives a PPG signal transmitted from the control module (20) and calculates various biometric information by applying it to a predetermined algorithm. Specifically, the server (30) processes the PPG signal to calculate oxygen saturation, pulse rate, pulse wave fluctuation, whether there is an irregular pulse wave, respiration rate, and blood pressure. In addition, the server (30) receives an acceleration signal collected from an acceleration sensor (14) provided in the sensor module (10) and a body temperature signal collected from the first temperature sensor (13), and calculates biometric information reflecting the user's activity level indicator, movement pattern, and body temperature change by applying it to a predetermined algorithm.

[0110] The PPG signal, acceleration signal, and body temperature signal received from the server (30) can be stored in the storage unit (31), and the storage unit (31) stores not only raw data but also derived biometric information calculated based on the signals. Additionally, the server (30) is provided with a processing unit (32), and a plurality of algorithms are stored in the processing unit (32). The algorithm may be a dedicated algorithm that calculates only a single indicator (e.g., oxygen saturation, body temperature) or an integrated algorithm that calculates multiple indicators simultaneously. The user may select and operate one or more of the algorithms as needed.

[0111] Additionally, the biometric information generated by the server (30) may be provided directly to the control module (20) along with the patient identification number, or transmitted to the control module (20) through a gateway device (60) (e.g., a smartphone, a tablet, etc.). The biometric information may be displayed on the display unit (23) of the control module (20) so that the user can monitor it in real time.

[0112] Data generated by the server (30) or transmitted through the server (30) is reliably transmitted to an external server (50), such as a hospital management system (EMR: Electronic Medical Record) or a data hub, and can be shared among medical staff. Through this, the patient's real-time status can be provided to multiple medical staff simultaneously, thereby supporting rapid diagnosis and treatment decision-making.

[0113] Additionally, biometric information generated from the server (30) can be displayed through a digital display unit (40). As illustrated in FIG. 1, the digital display unit (40) may display blood pressure, pulse, oxygen saturation, respiratory rate, irregular pulse wave, skin temperature, body temperature, etc. The digital display unit (40) may be configured as a large monitor, a wall panel, or a network-connected display device. This allows for intuitive monitoring of the condition of multiple patients in a central control room or a remote medical environment.

[0114]

[0115] FIGS. 16 to 21 illustrate a charging device (70) of a control module (20) according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0116] Referring to FIG. 16, the charging device (70) is provided in the form of a multi-charging station so that a plurality of control modules (20) can be charged simultaneously. A plurality of slots (72) are formed in the main body (71) of the charging device (70). As shown in FIG. 17 and FIG. 20, each slot (72) is provided with a terminal portion connected to a charging terminal (27) of a control module (20) and an on / off switch (79) for starting or stopping the operation of the charging device (70).

[0117] As illustrated in FIGS. 18 and 19, a power supply unit (75) that receives power from an external power source is provided on the rear of the charging device (70), and a heat dissipation unit (76) is formed to dissipate heat generated during the charging process to the outside. Additionally, a fan (78) for cooling is provided adjacent to the heat dissipation unit (76). Furthermore, an SMPS (77) (Switched-Mode Power Supply) is provided inside the charging device (70) to convert AC power into DC power and distribute stable voltage and current to each slot (72).

[0118] Meanwhile, in the charging device (70) employed in the present embodiment, a stacking groove (73) is formed on the upper surface of the main body (71), and a stacking projection (74) is formed on the lower surface. As shown in FIG. 21, by inserting the stacking projection (74) of the charging device (70) into the stacking groove (73) of another charging device (70) located below, a plurality of control modules (20) can be charged simultaneously while a plurality of charging devices (70) are stacked vertically.

[0119] This stacked structure increases space efficiency in hospital wards, laboratories, or large-scale patient monitoring environments and provides the advantage of managing multiple charging devices (70) in an integrated form. Furthermore, the charging device (70) is designed to charge multiple control modules (20) simultaneously and includes an LED display unit that indicates the charging status of each slot (72), displaying charging, charging complete, error status, etc., using colors or lighting patterns so that the user can intuitively recognize the charging status.

[0120] As such, the charging device (70) according to the present invention can not only stably charge a plurality of control modules (20) simultaneously, but also provide mass operation and stable management functions required in a medical environment by increasing space utilization through a stacked structure.

[0121]

[0122] Although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to preferred embodiments, the invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and many variations may be provided within the scope of the invention.

Claims

1. A sensor module for collecting biosignals that measures biosignals from a user, An inner part that comes into contact with the finger of the user above; An outer part coupled to the outer side of the inner part above; A sensor part comprising a PPG signal collection sensor that irradiates light from the inner part toward the user's finger and receives light reflected from the user to collect the user's PPG (Photoplethysmography) signal; A sensor module for collecting biosignals, characterized in that when the inner part and the outer part are combined, they form a C-shape with one side open, allowing a user's finger to come into contact with the inner surface of the inner part.

2. In Paragraph 1, A sensor module for collecting biosignals, characterized by including a plurality of the above-mentioned PPG collection sensors on a printed circuit board.

3. In Paragraph 1, The above sensor part is a sensor module for collecting biosignals, characterized by further including at least one of a temperature sensor that measures the user's skin temperature and an accelerometer that detects the user's movement.

4. In Paragraph 3, A sensor module for collecting biosignals, characterized in that data collected by the above-mentioned PPG collection sensor, temperature sensor, and acceleration sensor is transmitted externally via wired or wireless connection.

5. In Paragraph 1, A sensor module for collecting biosignals, characterized in that the inner part and the outer part are made of a material that allows for elastic change.

6. In Paragraph 1, A sensor module for collecting biosignals, characterized by including a cover made of an elastic changeable material that is coupled to the outer perimeter of the above-mentioned outer part.

7. In Paragraph 6, A sensor module for collecting biosignals, characterized in that the above cover is formed in a C shape with an opening on one side, and the arc length in the circumferential direction is greater than the arc length in the circumferential direction of the outer part so as to completely surround the outer part.

8. In Paragraph 7, A sensor module for collecting biosignals, characterized in that the cover has a receiving groove formed on the inner surface side for receiving the outer part, and a seating groove formed on one side of the opening for seating a wire extending from the outer part and the inner part.

9. In Paragraph 8, A sensor module for collecting biosignals, characterized in that at least a portion of the above wire extends to the outside through the space of the above opening.

10. In Paragraph 8, A sensor module for collecting biosignals, characterized in that a rib is formed on the upper part of the receiving groove to surround at least a portion of the inner surface of the inner part.

11. In Paragraph 1, A sensor module for collecting biosignals, characterized by including a cover that is coupled to the outer circumference of the outer part and includes a variable adjustment part whose circumferential length is adjusted to fit the size of the user's finger.

12. In Paragraph 11, On one side of the above variable adjustment part, a seating portion is provided for the outer part to be seated thereon, and A sensor module for collecting biosignals, characterized in that a fastening rib is formed on the upper part of the above-mentioned mounting portion to hold the edge of the above-mentioned inner part.

13. In Paragraph 1, A sensor module for collecting biosignals, characterized in that the sensor part is disposed on a printed circuit board, the printed circuit board is supported by an elastic support, one side of the elastic support is coupled to the printed circuit board and is bent into a "C" shape to provide elastic force, and the other side of the elastic support is coupled to a fixing part provided on the outer part.

14. In Paragraph 13, A sensor module for collecting biosignals, characterized in that the fixed part is open at the center and formed in the shape of a closed curve band, and is formed with the same curvature as the inner part or the outer part.

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