Physiological sensing device

Abstract

A multi-channel contact sensor measurement device (101x) provides physiological monitoring The device may include an attachment assembly configured to attach to a user's body. The device may include a sensor module contained within a housing that is configured to couple with the attachment assembly. The sensor module may include at least two sensors configured to generate respective sensor data when the device is attached to the user's body. The sensors may measure physiological parameters such as respiratory flow, respiratory rate, breath sounds, SpO₂, pulse rate, breathing effort, and / or chest movements. A central controller may process sensor data to derive biosignals from data related to the sensor measurements, which may allow for real-time analysis of sensor data and / or control of other medical devices. The modular design of the device optimizes usability and functionality across multiple modalities and applications. Other implementations are also described.

Description

PHYSIOLOGICAL SENSING DEVICE1 CROSS-REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] The present application claims the benefit of the filing date of U.S. Provisional Application No.63 / 747,604, filed on January 21, 2025, the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated herein by reference.2. BACKGROUND OF THE TECHNOLOGY2.1. FIELD OF THE TECHNOLOGY

[0002] The present technology generally relates to one or more of the screening, detection, diagnosis, monitoring, treatment, prevention and amelioration of disorders, such as sleep-related disorders. The present technology also relates to medical devices or apparatus, and their use. More particularly, some embodiments of the present technology relate to detecting physiological signals / parameters and / or biosignals, and medical devices used to detecting such physiological signals / parameters and / or biosignals. In some implementations, the present technology involves the screening, detection, diagnosis, monitoring, treatment, prevention, and / or amelioration of sleep disorder events.2.2. DESCRIPTION OF RELATED ART

[0003] Screening and diagnosis generally describe the identification of a disorder from its signs and symptoms. Screening typically gives a true / false result such as indicating whether or not a patient’s disorder is severe enough to warrant further investigation, while diagnosis may result in clinically actionable information. Screening and diagnosis tend to be one-off processes, whereas monitoring the progress of a disorder can continue indefinitely. Some screening / diagnosis systems are suitable only for screening / diagnosis, whereas some may also be used for monitoring.

[0004] Polysomnography (PSG) is typically used for the evaluation of sleep architecture and common sleep disorders. One advantage of PSG is its inclusion of a large number of sensing modalities, which allows for a comprehensive assessment of sleep conditions. These sensing modalities are typically used to measure and record various biosignals, such as brain activity by electroencephalography (EEG), eye movements by electrooculography (EOG), muscle activity / activation by electromyography (EMG), and heart rhythm by electrocardiography (ECG), which can accurately determine a patient’s sleep stages, thereby classifying sleep in one of five stages: Wakefulness, Rapid-Eye-Movement (REM) sleep, and three stages of non-REM sleep including stages Nl, N2, and N3. Stages N1 and N2 are referred to as light sleep whereas stage N3 is denominated as deep sleep. The assessment of these sleep characteristics and other derivations, such as sleep onset and sleep latencies, is a crucial step in sleep disorder diagnostics. For example, the diagnosis of Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) relies on the accurate estimation of the Total Sleep Time (TST) to calculate the Apnea-Hypopnea-Index (AHI). Furthermore,comprehensive OSA phenotyping can be used for personalized OSA management. For example, rapid eye movement (REM)-predominant OSA is one such phenotype that can inform healthcare providers on the choice of an optimal treatment strategy.

[0005] Common PSG setups are deployed in hospitals, clinics, sleep labs, and / or other healthcare facilities, involve the placement of 15 to 20 wired contact sensors on a person in order to measure the various biosignals, and usually involve expert clinical staff to properly operate and apply the PSG system. However, analysis from PSG can be a costly and time-consuming procedure, which requires the assistance of highly trained personnel for sensor application, patient monitoring and data scoring. The high density of attached sensors and electrodes combined with an unfamiliar sleep environment may cause patient discomfort and may alter the patient’s natural sleep patterns. Factors such as night-to-night variability and the first-night effect can further decrease the reliability of the PSG analysis. For these reasons, ambulatory versions of the PSG that support inbedroom, multi-night assessment of sleep have gained popularity.

[0006] Home sleep apnea testing (HSAT) systems have been developed to address the issues related to common PSG setups. HSAT systems provide healthcare professionals with a portable and easy-to-use home sleep testing device for patients who might have sleep disordered breathing. HSAT systems can also be cost effective and convenient solution to test patients for sleep apnea in the comfort of their own bedroom. Testing patients in their own environment can help improve their experience and acceptance of the world of sleep apnea therapy.

[0007] Typical HSAT systems include attached sensors and wired electrodes. For example, some HSAT systems include a sleep screening unit that attaches to the patient by way of a chest strap or belt. Components, such as a respiratory effort (RE) sensor, pulse oximeter sensor, and nasal cannula, may connect to the sleep screening unit to measure respiratory flow (RF), respiratory rate (RR), RE, blood oxygen saturation (SpCh), and pulse rate (PR), which can be used to estimate AHI. These HSAT system setups may be cumbersome and uncomfortable, and thus, such systems may alter the patient’s natural sleep patterns.

[0008] Reduced channel HSAT devices, such as those based on peripheral arterial tone, have been developed. Peripheral arterial tone-based HSAT devices typically include a finger-based photoplethysmography (PPG) and accelerometry sensing module from which signal modalities such as SpO2, PR, activity and peripheral arterial tone can be derived and analyzed to estimate AHI. A significant limitation of these HSAT devices is that they still require multiple cumbersome and uncomfortable sensors to be worn by the user, which may alter the patient’s natural sleep patterns. Such system can be difficult to set up by a layperson, and the improper placement of one or more the sensors may prohibit accurate assessment of sleep stages.3. BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE TECHNOLOGY

[0009] The present technology is related to medical devices used in the screening, monitoring, diagnosis, amelioration, treatment, or prevention of sleep disorders having one or more of improved comfort, cost, efficacy, ease of use and manufacturability.

[0010] Some implementations of the present technology may include a multi-channel contact sensor based measurement device, which can be used for monitoring biosignals of a patient. The multi-channel contact sensor measurement device may include at least two sensors contained by a single housing. The multi-channel contact sensor measurement device may be configured to attach to a body part of a patient, such as a torso or neck of the patient.

[0011] Some versions of the present technology may relate to a method and system for monitoring sleep related events. The method may include obtaining respective sensor data from at least two sensors contained within a single housing of a multi-channel contact sensor measurement device attached to a user’s body. The method may include deriving, from the respective sensor data, a plurality of biosignals suggestive of sleep related events.

[0012] In some forms, the multi-channel contact sensor measurement device includes an attachment assembly and a sensor module contained within the housing, wherein the sensor module is configured to couple with the attachment assembly and the attachment assembly is configured to attach to the user’s body.

[0013] In some forms, the attachment assembly is an adhesive patch assembly comprising an adhesive patch configured to stick to the user’s body. In such forms, the adhesive patch assembly is configured to attach to a torso or neck of the user’s body. In some forms, the attachment assembly is a chest strap assembly configured to attach to a torso of the user’s body. In such forms, the chest strap assembly may include a frame attached to the housing. In such forms, the frame is configured to couple with a chest strap, and the chest strap is configured to wrap around the torso. In some forms, the attachment assembly is a travel pillow assembly configured to be placed on a neck of the user’s body.

[0014] In some forms, the sensor module comprises a sensor face configured to directly contact tissue of the user’s body when the multi-channel contact sensor measurement device is attached to the user’s body.

[0015] In some forms, the attachment assembly comprises a sensor window configured to receive the sensor face. In such forms, the sensor face is configured to extend through the sensor window when the sensor module is attached to the attachment assembly.

[0016] In some forms, the multi-channel contact sensor measurement device comprises a fastening mechanism configured to couple the sensor module to the attachment assembly. In such forms, the fastening mechanism is part of the attachment assembly and / or the sensor module.

[0017] In some forms, the fastening mechanism is a snap connector comprising at least two maleconnectors and at least two female connectors. In such forms, each of the at least two female connectors are configured to receive a corresponding one of at least two male connectors. In some forms, the at least two female connectors may be disposed on or embedded in the attachment assembly and the at least two male connectors may be disposed on the housing. In such forms, each of the at least two female may be positioned on respective sides of the sensor window. In other forms, the at least two female connectors may be disposed on or embedded in the housing and the at least two male connectors may be disposed on the attachment assembly. In such forms, each of the at least two male connectors may be positioned on respective sides of the sensor window.

[0018] In some forms, the fastening mechanism is a snap-fit connector. The snap-fit connector may be or include at least one of an annular snap-fit connector, a cantilever snap-fit connector, a torsional snap-fit connector, a positional snap-fit connector, a U-shaped snap-fit connector, or a custom designed snap-fit connector.

[0019] In some forms, the snap-fit connector comprises a latch mechanism to lock the sensor module to the attachment assembly. The latch mechanism may be disposed on the attachment assembly. In some forms, the latch mechanism is configured to latch on to a ridge portion extending away from the housing. In such forms, the latch mechanism may include a set of retaining tabs to latch on to the ridge. In some forms, the latch mechanism is configured to lock in to a recess portion formed on the housing. In such forms, the latch mechanism may include a set of retaining tabs to fit in to the recess. In some forms, the fastening mechanism is a cradle mechanism configured to lock the sensor module to the attachment assembly. In such forms, the cradle mechanism may include a set of cradle arms configured to cradle the housing when the sensor module is attached to the attachment assembly. In various forms, the latch mechanism partially or entirely surrounds a perimeter of the sensor window. Additionally or alternatively, a shape of each cradle arm of the set of cradle arms complements a shape of a corresponding portion of the housing. In other forms, the latch mechanism may be disposed on the sensor module.

[0020] In some forms, at least one sensor of the at least two sensors includes a vibroacoustic sensor. The vibroacoustic sensor may be configured to measure respiratory flow, measure respiratory rate, measure pulse rate, and / or measure or record breath sounds.

[0021] In some forms, the vibroacoustic sensor is a contact microphone. The contact microphone may be a bone-conduction microphone. Additionally or alternatively, the contact microphone may a microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) microphone. In these forms, the vibroacoustic sensor may include an acoustic port on a surface of an enclosure of the vibroacoustic sensor. Additionally or alternatively, the sensor face comprises an acoustic port. In some forms, a shape of the acoustic port of the sensor face substantially mirrors a shape of the acoustic port on the enclosure of thevibroacoustic sensor.

[0022] In some forms, the vibroacoustic sensor is MEMS vibration sensor or a MEMS accelerometer. In such forms, the vibroacoustic sensor may not include an acoustic port on a surface of an enclosure of the vibroacoustic sensor. Additionally or alternatively, the sensor face may not include an acoustic port.

[0023] In some forms, at least one sensor of the at least two sensors includes a reflective sensor. In such forms, the reflective sensor may be a reflectance pulse oximeter configured to measure arterial oxygen saturation (SpCh). Additionally or alternatively, the reflectance pulse oximeter is configured to measure pulse rate.

[0024] In some forms, at least one sensor of the at least two sensors includes a motion sensor. In such forms, the motion sensor is configured to measure breathing effort and / or measure chest movements. In some forms, the motion sensor is an inertial measurement unit (IMU) comprising at least one of an accelerometer, a gyroscope, or a magnetometer. In such forms, the accelerometer may be a MEMS accelerometer, the gyroscope may be a MEMS gyroscope, and the magnetometer may be a MEMS magnetometer.

[0025] In some forms, the multi-channel contact sensor measurement device includes a controller within the single housing, wherein the controller is connected to each of the at least two sensors. Additionally or alternatively, the multi-channel contact sensor measurement device includes a communication interface connected to the controller.

[0026] In some forms, the controller comprises at least one processor, and the at least one processor is configured to derive the plurality of biosignals from the respective sensor data. Additionally or alternatively, the plurality of biosignals are derived by filtering.

[0027] In some forms, the method is performed by the controller. In such forms, the method may include causing transmission, using the communication interface, of any one or more of: (a) the respective sensor data, (b) the derived plurality of biosignals, and (c) the classified individual segments, to an external computing system over a wired or wireless connection between the communication interface and the external computing system.

[0028] In some forms, the method is performed by a computing system external to the multichannel contact sensor measurement device. In such forms, the obtaining may include receiving the respective sensor data from the multi-channel contact sensor measurement device over a wired or wireless connection with the multi-channel contact sensor measurement device, wherein the respective sensor data is transmitted by the multi-channel contact sensor measurement device using the communication interface.

[0029] In some forms, the method may include classifying individual segments of the plurality of biosignals as belonging to one of a plurality of sleep staging events. In some forms, the methodmay include segmenting each of the plurality of biosignals into the individual segments. In some forms, the classifying may include feeding the plurality of epochs to a sleep staging model (SSM) to predict a classification label for the individual segments, wherein each classification label corresponds to one or more sleep staging events. The SSM may be a trained or untrained machine learning (ML) classifier model. In some forms, the method may include outputting the predicted classification labels for each epoch.

[0030] Some versions of the present technology may relate to a controller comprising at least one processor and at least one memory including processor control instructions. The at least one memory and processor control instructions may be configured to, with the at least one processor, cause the controller to perform or implement the method of any of the previously described methods and / or any other method discussed herein.

[0031] Some versions of the present technology may relate to a processor-readable storage medium comprising processor-executable instructions, wherein execution of the processorexecutable instructions by one or more processors of a computing system is to cause the computing system to perform or implement the method of any of the previously described methods and / or any other method discussed herein.

[0032] Some versions of the present technology may relate to a computer-readable medium encoded with computer-readable instructions, which when executed by one or more processors cause a computing system to perform or implement the method of any of the previously described methods and / or any other method discussed herein.

[0033] Some versions of the present technology may relate to an apparatus for monitoring sleep related events. The apparatus may include a memory and at least one processor connected to the memory. The at least one processor may be configured to obtain respective sensor data from at least two sensors contained within a single housing of a multi-channel contact sensor measurement device attached to a user’s body; and derive, from the respective sensor data, a plurality of biosignals suggestive of sleep related events.

[0034] In some forms, the multi-channel contact sensor measurement device may be any of the multi-channel contact sensor measurement device forms discussed previously.

[0035] In some forms, the at least one processor may be configured to perform or implement the method of any of the previously described methods and / or any other method discussed herein.

[0036] Some versions of the present technology may relate to a multi-channel contact sensor measurement device. The multi-channel contact sensor measurement device may include an attachment assembly configured to attach to a user’s body. The multi-channel contact sensor measurement device may include a housing configured to couple with the attachment assembly. The multi-channel contact sensor measurement device may include a sensor module containedwithin the housing. The sensor module may include at least two sensors. The at least two sensors are configured to generate respective sensor data when the multi-channel contact sensor measurement device is attached to the user’s body.

[0037] In some forms, the attachment assembly is an adhesive patch assembly comprising an adhesive patch configured to stick to a torso or neck of the user’s body. In some forms, the attachment assembly is a chest strap assembly configured to attach to a torso of the user’s body In some forms, the attachment assembly is a travel pillow assembly configured to be placed on a neck of the user’s body.

[0038] In some forms, the attachment assembly and / or the housing comprises a fastening mechanism. In such forms, the fastening mechanism may be configured to couple the housing to the attachment assembly.

[0039] In some forms, at least one sensor of the at least two sensors includes a vibroacoustic sensor configured to measure at least one of respiratory flow, respiratory rate, pulse rate, or breath sounds. The vibroacoustic sensor may be a microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) microphone, a MEMS vibration sensor, and / or a MEMS accelerometer.

[0040] When the vibroacoustic sensor is or includes the MEMS microphone, the MEMS microphone may be a contact microphone, such as a bone-conduction microphone. When the vibroacoustic sensor is or includes the MEMS microphone, the vibroacoustic sensor may include an acoustic port on a surface of an enclosure of the vibroacoustic sensor. Additionally or alternatively, the housing comprises a sensor face, and the sensor face comprises an acoustic port, and a shape of the acoustic port of the sensor face substantially mirrors a shape of the acoustic port on the enclosure of the vibroacoustic sensor.

[0041] In some forms, at least one sensor of the at least two sensors includes a reflective sensor configured to measure at least one of an arterial oxygen saturation (SpCh) or a pulse rate.

[0042] In some forms, at least one sensor of the at least two sensors includes a motion sensor configured to measure at least one of breathing effort or chest movements. In such forms, the motion sensor is an inertial measurement unit (IMU) comprising at least one of a MEMS accelerometer, a MEMS gyroscope, or a MEMS magnetometer.

[0043] In some forms, the at least two sensors includes at least two sensors selected from a group comprising a vibroacoustic sensor, a reflective sensor, and a motion sensor.

[0044] In some forms, the sensor module further includes a controller within the housing. In such forms, the controller is connected to each of the at least two sensors. Additionally or alternatively, the controller includes at least one processor configured to obtain the respective sensor data from the at least two sensors; and derive, from the respective sensor data, a plurality of biosignals suggestive of sleep related events.

[0045] In some forms, the sensor module includes a communication interface connected to the controller. In such forms, the controller is configured to cause transmission, using the communication interface, of any one or more of: (a) the respective sensor data, (b) the derived plurality of biosignals, and (c) the classified individual segments, to an external computing system over a wired or wireless connection between the communication interface and the external computing system. Additionally or alternatively, the controller is configured to classify individual segments of the plurality of biosignals as belonging to one of a plurality of sleep staging events. In such forms, the controller may be configured to segment each of the plurality of biosignals into the individual segments. Additionally or alternatively, the classification comprises feed the plurality of epochs to a sleep staging model (SSM) to predict a classification label for the individual segments, wherein each classification label corresponds to one or more sleep staging events. Additionally or alternatively, the SSM is a trained or untrained ML classifier model. Additionally or alternatively, the controller is configured to output the predicted classification labels for each epoch. Additionally or alternatively, the controller is configured to perform or implement the method of any of the previously described methods and / or any other method discussed herein.

[0046] Portions of the aspects may form sub-aspects of the present technology. Additionally, various ones of the sub-aspects and / or aspects may be combined in various manners and also constitute additional aspects or sub-aspects of the present technology. Other features of the technology will be apparent from consideration of the information contained in the following detailed description, abstract, drawings and claims.4. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0047] The present technology is illustrated by way of example, and not by way of limitation, in the figures of the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals refer to similar elements including:

[0048] Fig. 1 shows an example environment illustrating an implementation of a sensing and data storage system (hereinafter “sensing system”) according to, or associated with, the present technology.

[0049] Fig. 2 shows an example computing system or processing device suitable for performing various methodologies according to example implementations of the present technology.

[0050] Fig. 3 shows example attachment assembly types for the contact sensor measurement device of the present technology.

[0051] Fig. 4A shows an example patch attachment assembly of the contact sensor measurement device attached to a torso in accordance with the present technology when worn by a patient.

[0052] Figs. 4B-1 and 4B-2 show an example patch attachment assembly of the contact sensormeasurement device attached to a neck in accordance with the present technology when worn by a patient.

[0053] Fig. 4B-3 shows different anatomical zones of the neck.

[0054] Figs. 4C-1 and 4C-2 show an example belt attachment assembly of the contact sensor measurement device attached to a torso in accordance with the present technology when worn by a patient.

[0055] Figs. 5A and 5B show views of a first modular contact sensor device subassembly.

[0056] Figs. 5C and 5D show views of a second modular contact sensor device subassembly.

[0057] Figs. 5E, 5F, and 5G show views of a third modular contact sensor device subassembly.

[0058] Fig. 5H shows views of a fourth modular contact sensor device subassembly.

[0059] Fig. 51 shows views of a fifth modular contact sensor device subassembly.

[0060] Fig. 6 shows a bottom view and a top perspective view of an example contact sensor measurement device.

[0061] Fig. 7 shows example components of the contact sensor measurement device suitable for performing various methodologies according to example implementations of the present technology.

[0062] Fig. 8 shows an example process of a methodology processing sensor data of the present technology.5. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLES OF THE TECHNOLOGY

[0063] Before the present technology is described in further detail, it is to be understood that the technology is not limited to the particular examples described herein, which may vary. It is also to be understood that the terminology used in this disclosure is for the purpose of describing only the particular examples discussed herein, and is not intended to be limiting.

[0064] The following description is provided in relation to various examples which may share one or more common characteristics and / or features. It is to be understood that one or more features of any one example may be combinable with one or more features of another example or other examples. In addition, any single feature or combination of features in any of the examples may constitute a further example.5.1. Overview

[0065] One aspect of the present technology relates to a methodology and apparatus that uses physiological data, such as physiological signals / parameters or biosignals measured, collected, recorded by a sensing system, to monitor, evaluate, and / or diagnose medical conditions of individual users, such as sleep staging performance and the like. Aspects of such technology may be considered in relation to Figs. 1 and 2.5.1.1. Sensing system

[0066] Fig. 1 illustrates an example network environment 100 in which aspects of the present disclosure may be practiced. The environment 100 includes a sensing system 101 that is configured to receive, detect, transform, and / or transfer data 108 to a target system 110. The sensing system may be implemented in an HSAT. Such data 108 may include time varying numeric signals, such as physiological data and / or other data.

[0067] The sensing system 101 may be any system that is configured to receive, detect, analyze, and / or transfer data 108, such as physiological data, associated with the user 102. Such physiological data may include, but not limited to, heart rate, step count, blood glucose, blood pressure, respiration rate, body temperature, blood volume, sound pressure or acoustic pressure, lactic acid, PPG, electroencephalogram (EEG), electrocardiogram (ECGZEKG), electromyogram (EMG), electrooculogram (EOG), electroretinogram (ERG), electrogastrogram (EGG), SpO?, skin conductance such as galvanic skin response (GSR) and / or electrodermal activity (EDA), PSGdata, peripheral arterial tone (PAT), sweat related parameters such as cortisol and / or melatonin, and biopotential signals, among other possibilities.

[0068] In some implementations, the sensing system 101 is or includes one or more sensors or devices to monitor and / or detect physical stimuli, environmental changes, and / or other phenomena related to a user 102, such as physiological states of the user 102, and converts them into signals or data, such as data 108. For example, the sensing system 101 may include one or more of the following sensors / devices: a smart watch 101a, a temperature sensor 101b, an electrocardiogram (ECGZEKG) device 101c, a respiratory pressure medical device lOld (e.g., also referred to as a respiratory therapy (RT) device, a respiratory pressure therapy (RPT) device, and / or a high flow therapy device (HFT)), a finger sensor device 10 If, a biopotential measurement device lOle, a contact measurement device lOlx, an HSAT device 101g, a health tracker, a blood monitor (e.g., a glucose meter, lactic acid meter / analyzer, and / or the like), flow sensors and / or flow rate sensors, pressure sensors, motion sensors, image capture devices (e.g., cameras), a smartphone, sonar sensors and / or microphones, among other possibilities. For purposes of the present disclosure, the sensing system 101 may refer to an individual sensor / device, or a collection of multiple sensors / devices.

[0069] Examples of the finger sensor device 10 If, such as a pulse oximeter configured to derive a peripheral arterial tone signal, are disclosed in EP Pat. No. 3,593,707 and / or U.S. Pat. Pub.2020 / 0015737, the entire disclosures of each of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0070] Examples of the biopotential measurement device lOle are disclosed in U.S. Provisional App. No. 63 / 662,455 (hereinafter “'455”), the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0071] Examples of the HSAT device 101g are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 7,785,265, U.S. Pat. No.9,629,572, U.S. Pat. No. 9,687,177, U.S. Pat. No. 10,376,670, U.S. Pat. No. 11,364,362, and U.S. Pat. No. 11,779,268, the entire disclosures of each of which are incorporated herein by reference. Another example of the HSAT device 101g may include the ApneaLink™ Air provided by ResMed, Inc., which is capable of recording up to five channels of information, including RE, pulse / PR, oxygen saturation, nasal flow, and snoring.

[0072] Examples of sonar-based sensors can include a microphone and speaker implemented processing device such as any of the processing devices described in U.S. Pat. Pub. 2021 / 0275056 and U.S. Pat. Pub. 2022 / 0007965, the entire disclosures of each of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0073] Additionally or alternatively, the data devices of the sensing system 101 can include radiofrequency sensing devices described in U.S. Pat. Pub. 2014 / 0024917, Int’l App. No. PCT / EP2017 / 070773, U.S. Pat. Pub. 2018 / 0239014, and U.S. Pat. No. 11,033,196, the entire disclosures of each of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0074] Examples of the respiratory pressure medical device lOld are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No.11,844,907, U.S. Pat. No. 11,759,595, U.S. Pat. No. 11,892,000, and U.S. Pat. No. 11,712,529, the entire disclosures of each of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0075] The sensing system 101 may send data 108 to a target system 110 via a wired or wireless connection. In one example, the sensing system 101 may include a built-in wireless transceiver, which may be regarded as a data transfer device, configured to transmit the data 108 wirelessly. Additionally or alternatively, the sensing system 101 may include a built-in network interface controller (NIC), which may be regarded as a data transfer device, configured to transmit the data 108 over wired medium. The target system 110 may include one or more of the following: a remote server 112 and / or a wireless device 114.

[0076] It should also be noted that at least some of the data gathering devices 101 include other functionality in addition to data gathering / monitoring functionality, and therefore, such data gathering devices 101 can additionally or alternatively act as target systems 110.

[0077] For example, an RPT device 101 d may be configured as both a data gathering device 101 and a target system 110 that processes data 108 collected using its own on-board transducers / sensors and data 108 obtained from one or more other data gathering devices 101, such as contact sensor measurement device 10 lx and / or the like. Here, the RPT device 101 d may use the collected data 108 to control pressure settings and / or other control parameters used to control RPT provided to a patient, such as user 102. In another example, an RPT device lOld may be configured solely as a data gathering device 101 that forwards collected respiratory therapy data 108 to a target system 110, such as the wireless device 114 and / or remote server system 112. 5.1.2. Remote Server

[0078] The remote server 112 may be a remotely located computing system of one or more servers that receives data 108 provided by one or more sensing systems 101. The remote server 112 may be implemented to monitor conditions or treatment progress of one or more users 102 based on data 108 provided by one or more sensing systems 101. The remote server 112 may be a cloudbased server system that provides cloud computing services. Additionally, the remote server 112 may include various hardware components, such as any of those discussed infra with respect to Fig. 2 (see section 5.2).

[0079] The remote server 112 may be accessible to a clinician(s) and patients, such as user 102. Each user 102 may have a user account at the remote server 112. Each user account may store historical data 108 obtained from the sensing system 101, so that the remote server 112 can track treatment progress of each individual user 102.

[0080] In some forms, the remote server 112 may operate one or more algorithms to detect respiratory related events by analysis of stored data, such as data 108 obtained from any of the devices of sensing system 101 described herein. In one form, the remote server 112 may operate one or more artificial intelligence (Al) and / or machine learning (ML) models to predict various sleep stages of the user 102 and / or output other sleep monitoring related data associated with the user 102, which may be based on the collected data 108, such as biopotential data collected from the biopotential measurement device lOle, biometric data collected from contact sensor measurement device lOlx, and / or the like.

[0081] In some forms, the remote server 112 may determine control settings for an RPT device 101 d using stored and / or real-time data, such as data 108, obtained from any of the devices of the sensing system 101 described herein, such as contact sensor measurement device lOlx and / or the like.5.1.3. Wireless Device

[0082] The wireless device 114 may be a computing system accessible by the user 102, a user’s physician, and / or other healthcare or equipment provider. The wireless device 114 may collect, manage and / or monitor data 108 provided by the user’s sensing system 101. Examples of the wireless device 114 may include mobile phone and / or smartphone, tablet, smart appliance, smart TV, netbook, laptop computer, desktop computer, and wearable computing device such as a smartwatch (e.g., smartwatch 101a) and smart fabrics, among other possibilities. The wireless device 114 may include all of the components normally used in connection with a computing device such as a user interface subsystem and / or other hardware subsystems / components, such as any of those discussed infra with respect to Fig. 2 (see section 5.2).

[0083] In one example, when the wireless device 114 is connected with the sensing system 101, the wireless device 114 may have two-way communication with the sensing system 101. Thewireless device 114 may transmit any user input, including any device setting of the sensing system 101, to the sensing system 101. The sensing system 101 may receive the user’s input via the wireless device 114, and adjust any device setting according to the user input. The sensing system 101 may send data 108 to the wireless device 114. The wireless device 114 may display, in its graphical user interface, data 108 received from the sensing system 101 to the user 102.

[0084] Additionally or alternatively, the wireless device 114 may process data 108 received from the sensing system 101, and display any processed data to the user 102. For example, the wireless device 114 may operate one or more ML models to predict various sleep stages of the user 102 and / or output other sleep monitoring related data associated with the user 102 (including, for example, sleep disordered breathing events such as sleep apnea), which may be based on the collected data 108, such as physiological data collected from the multi-channel contact sensor measurement device lOlx and / or the like.

[0085] Additionally or alternatively, the wireless device 114 may forward the data 108 received from the sensing system 101 to the remote server 112. In another example, after the wireless device 114 processes the data 108 received from the sensing system 101, the wireless device 114 may send the processed data 108 to the remote server 112.

[0086] It should also be noted that at least some of the data sensing devices of the sensing system 101 may also be wireless devices 114, and therefore, such data sensing devices of the sensing system 101 can additionally or alternatively act as wireless target systems 110. For example, a smartwatch 101a may be configured as solely a data sensing device of the data sensing system 101 that forwards collected data 108 to a target system 110, the smartwatch 101a may be configured solely as a target system 110 that processes data 108 received from other data gathering devices 101, or the smartwatch 101a may be configured as both a data gathering device 101 and a target system 110 that processes data 108 collected using its own on-board sensors and data 108 obtained from one or more other data gathering devices 101, such as contact sensor measurement device 10 lx and / or the like.5.2. Computing System

[0087] Fig. 2 shows an example computing system 200 comprising circuitry enabling the performance of any one or more of the processes, or any one or more of the step(s) therein, according to the described examples of the present technology. The computing system 200 may correspond to any of the computing systems / devices discussed previously with respect to Fig. 1, such as the sensing system 101 and / or the target system 110. For example, the aforementioned implementations of the sensing system 101 and / or the target system 110 may include any one or more of the following components: one or more processors 202, memory 204, a storage element interface 206, one or more storage elements 208, an interconnect 210, a communication interface212, an input interface 214, an output interface 216, input devices 220, output devices 240, external systems 280, sensors, actuators, among many others.

[0088] Although Fig. 2 functionally illustrates various components as being within the computing system 200, such components may additionally or alternatively be distributed across multiple circuit boards, devices, and / or systems, and therefore, such components may or may not be implemented within the same physical housing. Additionally, although Fig. 2 functionally illustrates various components as being external to the computing system 200, such components may additionally or alternatively be included with or within the computing system 200. For example, one or more sensors, actuators, storage elements 208, input devices 220, and / or output devices 240 may be embedded in or otherwise integrated with the computing system 200. In another example, the communication interface 212 also be external to the computing system 200 and connected to the computing system 200 via a suitable interconnect mechanism. Furthermore, the computing system 200 may additionally or alternatively include other components not shown by Fig. 2, such as power management components, power supply, clock, housing, and / or the like.5.2.1. Processors

[0089] The processor(s) 202 may include any type of general -purpose and / or special-purpose processors, microprocessors, and / or or microcontrollers that interprets and executes programming instructions and / or other types of executable code. The processor(s) 202 may include circuitry such as, for example, one or more processor cores and one or more of cache memory, registers, low drop-out voltage regulators (LDOs), interrupt controllers, arithmetic logic unit (ALU), control unit, instruction decoder, real time clock (RTC), timer-counters including interval and watchdog timers, bus interface unit (BIU) and / or interconnect interface controllers, memory management unit (MMU), floating-point unit (FPU), pipeline stages, branch predictor, prefetch unit, input / output (VO) interface, power management unit (PMU), among others. In some implementations, the processor(s) 202 can also include an embedded sensor hub for processing data from one or multiple sensors, enabling efficient sensor fusion and offloading sensor data related computational tasks from the main processor(s) 202. In other implementations, such a sensor hub may be a standalone component rather than being a subsystem of the processor(s) 202.

[0090] As examples, the processor(s) 202 may be embodied as any suitable processors, and may include any number and / or combination of one or more central processing units (CPUs), graphical processing units (GPUs), accelerated processing units (APUs), microcontroller(s) (MCU), microprocessor(s) (MPU), neural processing units (NPUs), tensor processing units (TPUs), trusted platform modules (TPMs), hardware accelerators, application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), digital signal processors (DSPs), network processors, data processing units (DPUs), quantum processing units (QPUs), crypto-processors,programmable logic devices (PLDs), and / or any other hardware-based processor. References to a processor should be understood to include references to a single processor or a collection of processors that may or may not operate in parallel.5.2.2. Memory and Storage

[0091] The memory 204 may be a storage device of any type capable of storing information accessible by the processor(s) 202, including a computing device-readable medium. The memory may be a non-transitory medium, such as random access memory (RAM) and / or another type of dynamic storage device that stores information and instructions for execution by processor 202, read only memory (ROM) and / or another type of static storage device that stores static information and instructions for use by processor 202, a hard drive, memory card, optical disk, solid state drive, and / or other memory. Additionally, the memory 204 may also include a memory controller, such as an integrated memory controller (IMC), northbridge-based memory controller, DDR memory controller, and the like, for interfacing with the processor(s) 202. The memory 204 may include different combinations of the foregoing, whereby different portions of instructions and data are stored on different types of media. The instructions may be any set of instructions to be executed directly (such as machine code) or indirectly (such as scripts) by the processor(s). For example, the instructions may be stored as computing device code on the computing device-readable medium. In this regard, the terms “instructions”, “modules”, “programs”, and the like may be used interchangeably herein. The instructions may be stored in object code format for direct processing by the processor, or in any other computing device language including scripts or collections of independent source code modules that are interpreted on demand or compiled in advance.

[0092] Storage interface 206 may comprise interface circuitry such as, for example, a Serial Advanced Technology Attachment (SATA) interface, a Small Computer System Interface (SCSI), a Non-Volatile Memory Express (NVMe) interface, a USB interface (e.g., Mass Storage Class (MSC)), and / or the like, for connecting interconnect 210 to one or more storage elements 208, such as one or more local disks, for example SATA disk drives, and control the reading and writing of data to and / or from these storage elements 208. Although the storage element(s) 208 is / are described as a local disk, in general any other suitable computer-readable media such as a removable magnetic disk, optical storage media such as a CD or DVD, solid state drives, flash memory cards / drives, and / or the like. In this example, the storage element(s) 208 is / are shown as being external to computing system 200, however, in some implementations, the storage element(s) 208 may be internal or attached to the computing system 200.

[0093] Although Fig. 2 functionally illustrates the processor(s) 202, memory 204, and storage elements 208 as being within the same block, such devices may actually include multiple processor or memories that may or may not be stored within the same physical housing. Similarly, thememory 204 and / or storage elements 208 may include hard drive(s) or other storage media located in a housing different from that of the processor(s) 202, for example, in a cloud computing system. The processor(s) 202 may access the memory 204 and / or storage elements 208 over a network via the communication interface 212.5.2.3. Interconnect

[0094] Interconnect 210 may be a communication pathway that facilitates data transfer and connection between different components, circuits, devices, and / or systems in electronic and computing architectures, such as computing system 200. The interconnect 210 may be capable of supporting various communication protocols and design configurations.

[0095] The interconnect 210 may comprise one or more electrical interconnects (e.g., conductors such as metal, metal alloys, graphene, etc.), optical interconnects (e.g., fiber optics), on-chip or network-on-chip (NoC) interconnects, chip-to-chip interconnects, backplane interconnects, bus interconnects or bus systems, point-to-point interconnects, parallel interconnects, serial interconnects, and / or some other interconnection means that permit communication among the various components of the computing system 200. The interconnect 210 may include any number of interconnect and / or interface technologies such as, for example, SATA, peripheral component interconnect (PCI) such as PCI express (PCIe) or PCI extended (PCIx), Inter-Integrated Circuit (I2C), Inter-Integrated Circuit Sound (I2S), serial peripheral interface (SPI), Universal Asynchronous Receiver / Transmitter (UART), Advanced Microcontroller Bus Architecture (AMBA), Mobile Industry Processor Interface (MIPI) I3C, General-Purpose Input / Output (GPIO), Low-Voltage Differential Signaling (LVDS), Pulse-Density Modulation (PDM) bus, Automotive Audio Bus (A2B), Controller Area Network (CAN) bus, Universal Serial Bus (USB), HyperTransport, Infinity Fabric (IF), and / or any number of other bus or interconnect technologies including proprietary buses or interconnects.5.2.4. User Interface

[0096] The user interface of the computing system 200 may include input devices 220 and output devices 240 connected to the input interface 214 and output interface 216, respectively. The input interface 214 and / or output interface 216 may include physical connectors, plugs, sockets, slots, fasteners, and / or the like for coupling the computing system 200 with input devices 220 and output devices 240. In some examples, the interfaces 214, 216 may include various types of ports and corresponding connectors, such as USB ports / connectors, High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) ports / connectors, DisplayPort ports / connectors, Ethernet or RJ45 ports / connectors, audio jacks, optical audio (e.g., TOSLINK), XLR Connector, power supply connectors such as barrel connectors, Magsafe®, memory card slots / ports, Peripheral Component Interconnect Express (PCIe) slots, and / or the like. Additionally or alternatively, the input interface 214 and / or outputinterface 216 can include wireless communication devices, such as infrared (IR) receivers, Bluetooth modules, Wi-Fi chips, and / or the like. Additionally or alternatively, the input interface 214 and / or output interface 216 may include virtual mechanisms, such as software connectors, APIs, drivers, middleware, and / or the like

[0097] The input devices 220 may comprise one or more mechanisms that permit a user to input information to the computing device 200 via the input interface 214. Examples of the input devices 220 may include a keyboard, mouse, pen, stylus, physical buttons, switches, dials, knobs, keypads, touchpads, touchscreens, document scanners, headsets, voice recognition and / or biometric mechanisms (e.g., microphones, fingerprint readers, palm / hand geometry scanners, retina scanners, iris scanners, vein pattern scanners, heart rate monitors, blood pressure monitors, temperature sensors, pulse oximeters, respiratory rate monitors, blood glucose monitors, EEG sensors / electrodes / headsets, EOG sensors / electrodes, EMG sensors / electrodes, ECG sensors / electrodes, and / or the like), cameras, microphones, and / or the like. In some examples, one or more sensors, such as any of the various sensors mentioned herein, can additionally or alternatively be used as input devices 220. The input devices 220 may be physical devices, or virtual devices (e.g., software components) accessible via a touchscreen or other physical input device 220. The input devices may, in one form, be physically connected or attached to a housing of the computing system 200, or may, in another form, be in wireless communication with the computing system 200.

[0098] Output devices 240 may comprise one or more mechanisms that output information to the user. In the example of Fig. 2, the output device 240 comprises a display, however, the output devices 240 can additionally or alternatively include audio devices (e.g., speakers or other audio emitting devices), other visual output devices such as individual light emitting diodes (LEDs), projectors, printers, actuators and / or haptic feedback devices, and / or the like.5.2.5. Communication Interface

[0099] The communication interface 212 may be configured to establish wired and / or wireless communication with one or more external computing systems / devices 280. The external system(s) 280 may represent the sensing system 101, the target system 110, or some other computing systems or devices. The communication interface 212 may connect the computing system 200 to one or more other computing system / devices 280 by means of a personal area network (PAN), local area network (LAN), or a wide area network (WAN), such as, for example, the internet, an enterprise network, and / or the like. In one example, the communication interface 212 may be configured to detect and join a wired or wireless network so as to form a wired or wireless communication with one or more of the external computing devices 280. Additionally or alternatively, the communication interface 212 may form low-bandwidth communication with oneor more of the external computing devices 280.

[0100] The communication interface 212 may include one or more transceivers, which include various hardware elements to wirelessly transmit and receive data packets or to otherwise facilitate over-the-air communication. Such hardware elements may include, for example, baseband processors, digital signal processors (DSPs), switches, filters, amplifiers, antenna elements, and the like. Some transceivers may be configured to communicate over different networks and / or using different communication protocols than other transceivers. For example, the one or more transceivers may include a cellular transceiver to communicate over a cellular network, a Wi-Fi® transceiver to communicate over a wireless local area network (WLAN) / Wi-Fi network, a short-range communication transceiver to communicate over a personal area network and / or directly with other computing systems / devices. Such short-range transceivers may include, for example, such as Bluetooth®, Adaptive Network Topology (ANT) / ANT+, Zigbee, consumer infrared protocol, and / or the like. The transceiver(s) may be regarded as a data transfer device. Additionally or alternatively, the one or more transceivers may include near-field communication (NFC) circuitry to enable the computing system 200 to transmit and receive data wirelessly with other proximate devices or over very short distances.

[0101] Additionally or alternatively, the communication interface 212 may include one or more network interface controllers (NICs) that enables computing system 200 to communicate with other computing devices 280 via wired connections. The one or more NICs may be configured to communicate with other devices 280 according to one or more protocols, such as Ethernet, ISO / IEEE 11073, fiber optics, and / or some other suitable protocol(s).5.2.6. Transducers and Sensors

[0102] As alluded to previously, one or more of the external computing devices 280 may represent any one or more of the data devices of the sensing system 101 discussed herein. In some forms, one or more of the external computing devices 280 may represent one or more sensors such as, for example, accelerometers, gyroscopes, magnetometers, level sensors, flow sensors, temperature sensors (e.g., thermistors and / or the like), pressure sensors (manometers), gravimeters, altimeters; image capture devices (e.g., visible light cameras); light detection and ranging (LiDAR) sensors; proximity sensors (e.g., infrared, capacitive, inductive, Hall effect, optical, etc.), depth sensors, ambient light sensors, optical light sensors, ultrasonic transceivers, microphones, vibration sensors, biosensors or biotransducers, speed sensors, voltage sensors, current sensors, and / or any other suitable transducer or sensor, including any of those mentioned herein.

[0103] Examples of the flow sensors may include thermal anemometers, ultrasonic flowmeters, (non-contact) electromagnetic flow sensors, Coriolis mass flowmeters, turbine flowmeters, vortex shedding flow sensors, optical flowmeters, and / or the like.

[0104] Examples of the pressure sensors may include surface-mount pressure sensors, pi ezoresi stive pressure sensors, piezoelectric pressure sensors, electromagnetic pressure sensors, capacitive pressure sensors, resonant silicon pressure sensors, force balancing pressure sensors, optical pressure sensors, barometric pressure sensors, aneroid pressure sensors such as diaphragmatic (membrane) pressure sensors, and / or the like.

[0105] Examples of the microphones may include dynamic microphones, condenser microphones, piezoelectric and piezoelectric crystal microphones, fiber optic microphones, laser microphones, MEMS microphones, hydrophones, pressure zone microphones, contact microphones such as bone-conductive microphones, and / or the like. The microphones may also include vibration sensors and / or vibroacoustic transducers, such as the vibroacoustic sensor 750 of Fig. 7 (see section 5.3.1.4.4).

[0106] Examples of the biosensors or biotransducers include electrochemical biosensors (e.g., amperometric, potentiometric, impedance, conductometric etc.), optical biotransducers, fieldeffect transistor (FET) biotransducers, gravimetric / piezoelectric biosensors, pyroelectric biosensors, skin-based sensors or electrodes (e.g., silver / silver chloride (Ag / AgCl) electrodes, dry electrodes, carbon-based electrodes, flexible printed electrodes, conductive textile electrodes, skin-electrode mechanosensing structure (SEMS) devices, optical skin sensors, micro-needle electrodes, etc.), and / or the like.

[0107] Examples of the current transducers / sensors can include shunt resistors, current transformers, Hall effect current sensors (e.g., including closed-loop or open-loop Hall effect sensors), coreless current sensors (e.g., Hall effect sensors without a magnetic core), Rogowski coils, magnetoresistive current sensors, fluxgate current sensors, piezoelectric current sensors, inductive current sensors, and / or the like. Examples of the voltage transducers / sensors can include resistive voltage sensors, capacitive voltage sensors, inductive voltage sensors, Hall effect voltage sensors, potentiometric voltage sensors, fluxgate voltage sensors, piezoelectric voltage sensors, electrostatic voltage sensors, and / or the like.

[0108] In some forms, one or more of the external computing devices 280 may represent one or more actuators or haptic feedback devices such as, for example, linear actuators / motors, rotary actuators / motors, voice coil actuators, hydraulic and / or electrohydraulic actuators, pneumatic actuators, electromagnetic actuators, mechanical and / or electromechanical actuators, microelectromechanical actuators, electroactive polymer actuators, solenoids, piezoelectric actuators, electrostatic actuators, vibrotactile actuators, soft actuators, stepper motors, servomechanisms, solid state actuators, shape-memory alloy-based actuators, haptic touchscreens, and / or the like.

[0109] Any of the transducers mentioned herein, such as any of the sensors and / or actuatorsmentioned herein, may be implemented using microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) and / or nanoelectromechanical systems (NEMS) technologies.5.2.7. Power Supply

[0110] Although not shown by Fig. 2, a power supply may be located internal or external of the housing of the computing system 200. In one form of the present technology, a power supply provides electrical power to the computing system 200 only. In another form of the present technology, the power supply provides electrical power to devices / sy stems internal and external to the computing system 200, such as storage 208, input device(s) 220, output device(s) 240, and / or external system(s) 280.[OHl] In some forms, the power supply may include a battery, which may be embodied as battery cells or battery packs. Such a battery may have the same or similar configuration or parameters as battery 724 of Fig. 7 (see section 5.3.1.4.9). The battery may be the primary power source for the computing system 200, or the battery may be a secondary power source. When used as a secondary power source, the battery may be used as a backup or temporary power supply, or used in portable implementations of the computing system 200.

[0112] Additionally or alternatively, the computing system 200 may include power circuitry configured to connect the computing system 200 to an external power source, such as a physical electrical network or power grid using, for example, alternating current (AC) power plugs and sockets. Such power circuitry can include, for example, AC and / or DC inputs, AC-to-DC converter(s), DC-to-AC converter(s), power regulators, transformers, charging / power management circuitry such as a power management IC (PMIC) or battery management system (BMS), wired power supply connectors such as plugs and / or sockets, and / or wireless power charging circuitry such as a wireless power receiver, power loop antenna, and / or the like.

[0113] In some forms, the power charging circuitry, such as the wireless power charging circuitry, may have the same or similar configuration or parameters as the charging circuitry 720 of Fig. 7 (see section Error! Reference source not found.). In some forms, the PMIC / BMS may have the same or similar configuration or parameters as the PMIC / BMS 722 of Fig. 7 (see section 5.3.1.4.8).5.2.8. Clock

[0114] Additionally or alternatively, the computing system 200 may include a clock connected to the processor(s) 202. The clock may be a physical device that is capable of providing a measurement of the passage of time, such as an atomic clock or clock generator. The clock may be included for synchronization, timing, power management, timestamping data, and / or various other purposes. In one form, the clock may include a crystal oscillator, phased-locked loop (PLL) circuit, piezoelectric resonator such as quartz, polycrystalline ceramics, thin-film resonators, and / or other clock circuitry.5.2.9. Housing

[0115] In some implementations, some or all of the depicted components of the computing system 200 may be contained in or by a housing, chassis, case, shell, or other type of enclosure. In some circumstances, the housing may be dimensioned for portability such that it can be shipped, carried by a human, worn by a human such as user 102, or otherwise moved from one location to another. Such housing may be formed from one or more materials that form one or more exterior surfaces that partially or fully protect the contents enclosed by such housing from potentially damaging or hazardous environmental conditions, for example, electromagnetic interference (EMI), radiofrequency interference (RFI), electromagnetic radiation, vibration, extreme temperatures, various fluids (liquids, gases, etc.), dust and direct, and / or the like. Thus, the housing may be configured, formed, or built in such a way as to enable wearability and / or submergibility. In some forms, the housing and / or surfaces thereof may include mounting implements to enable attachment of the housing to various objects or structures (e.g., furniture, buildings, poles, etc.), racks (e.g., server racks, etc.), and / or individual users 102 (e.g., straps, belts, fasteners, clamps, and / or the like).5.2.10. Additional Computing System Aspects

[0116] As used in this application, the term "circuitry" may refer to one or more or all of the following: (a) hardware-only circuit implementations such as implementations in only analog and / or digital circuitry; (b) combinations of hardware circuits and software, such as (as applicable): (i) a combination of analog and / or digital hardware circuit(s) with software / firmware and (ii) any portions of hardware processor(s) with software (including digital signal processor(s)), software, and memory(ies) that work together to cause an apparatus, such as a mobile phone or server, to perform various functions); and (c) hardware circuit(s) and / or processor(s), such as microprocessor(s) or a portion of a microprocessor s), that requires software (e.g. firmware) for operation, but the software may not be present when it is not needed for operation. This definition of circuitry applies to all uses of this term in this application, including in any claims. As a further example, as used in this application, the term circuitry also covers an implementation of merely a hardware circuit or processor (or multiple processors) or portion of a hardware circuit or processor and its (or their) accompanying software and / or firmware. The term circuitry also covers, for example and if applicable to the particular claim element, a baseband integrated circuit or processor integrated circuit for a mobile device or a similar integrated circuit in a server, a cellular network device, or other computing or network device.

[0117] Thus, a processing device that may implement any of the processes discussed herein may include integrated chips / integrated circuits, a memory and / or other control instruction, data or information storage medium. For example, programmed instructions encompassing any of theassessment / signal processing methodologies described herein may be coded on integrated chips in the memory of the device or apparatus to form an ASIC, FPGA, DSP, and / or the like. Such instructions, with such processes, may also or alternatively be loaded as software or firmware using an appropriate processor-readable medium(s), data storage medium or memory. Optionally, such processing instructions may be downloaded such as from a server over a network (e.g., an internet, an intranet, enterprise network, and / or the like) to a processing device such that when the instructions are executed, the processing device serves as a screening, monitoring device, and / or treatment device.

[0118] In some examples, such a processing device may be the aforementioned target system 110, such as a wireless device 114 or a server 112, and may include a number of components such as a communication interface 212 to link / connect with a sensing system 101 (or individual sensors / devices, such as any of those shown by Fig. 1) and / or receive data representing such signals from such sensing system 101. The processing device may also include, among other components, processor(s) 202, display interface 240, a user control / input interface 214, one or more sensors, and a memory 204 / data storage 208, such as with the processing instructions of the processing methodologies / modules described herein. One or more sensors may be integral with or operably coupled with the processing device. For example, one or more sensors may be integrated or embedded in a same housing or enclosure as the processing device, and / or one or more sensors may be coupled with processing device such as through a wired (e.g., Ethernet, optical fibre, USB, and / or the like) and / or wireless link (e.g., Bluetooth™, Wi-Fi, cellular, and / or the like). The target system 110 may be configured with access to any of the processor-readable medium(s) or data storage medium(s) described herein that encompasses processor control instructions of any of the processes discussed herein. The processing device may be configured to receive requests for downloading the processor-executable instructions of the processor-readable medium to such processing devices over a network.

[0119] In other examples, such a processing device may be the aforementioned sensing system 101, such as data sensing devices 101a, 101b, 101c, lOld, lOle, lOlf, 101g, 10 lx, and may include a number of components such as a communication interface 212 to link / connect with a target system 110 and / or receive data from such target system 110. The processing device may also include, among other components, processor(s) 202, a user control / input interface 214, one or more sensors, and a memory 204 / data storage 208, such as with the processing instructions of the processing methodologies / modules described herein. One or more sensors may be integral with or operably coupled with the processing device. For example, one or more sensors may be integrated or embedded in a same housing or enclosure as the processing device, and / or one or more sensors may be coupled with processing device such as through a wired (e.g., Ethernet, optical fibre, USB,copper and / or other electrical wire, and / or the like) and / or wireless link (e.g., Bluetooth™, Wi-Fi, cellular, and / or the like). The sensing system 101 may be configured with access to any of the processor-readable medium(s) or data storage medium(s) described herein that encompasses processor control instructions of any of the processes discussed herein. The processing device may be configured to receive requests for downloading the processor-executable instructions of the processor-readable medium to such processing devices over a network. In one example, such a processing device may be a contact microphone measurement device 10 lx, which may be considered in reference to Figs. 3 through 8.5.3. Monitoring and Detection System

[0120] As previously mentioned, in one form, the present technology may include an HSAT monitoring and detection system for monitoring and / or evaluating sleep health (e.g., a sleep study device and / or sleep staging performance), such as for use in an HSAT system, which may be involved in and / or configured for any of the processes discussed herein. Such a system may include a sensing system 101, such as the contact sensor measurement device 10 lx, and optionally one or more other data sensing devices 101a, 101b, 101c, lOld, lOlf, lOle, 101g, and a target system 110.

[0121] In some implementations, the sensing system 101, such as the contact sensor measurement device 10 lx, collects or captures physiological measures of a user 102, conveys the biosignals (or data related to the biosignals) to a target system 110, and the target system 110 evaluates the monitored biosignals for physiological assessment purposes. In other implementations, the sensing system 101, such as the contact sensor measurement device 10 lx, collects or captures biosignals of a user 102 and evaluates the biosignals, in full or in part, for physiological assessment purposes. In these implementations, the sensing system 101 may communicate results of the evaluation to the target system 110 for further processing and / or analysis.

[0122] In some forms, the contact sensor measurement device lOlx includes multiple sensors, such as a contact microphone, one or more accelerometers, and a light sensor. The contact microphone may enable the device 10 lx to measure sound such as with the microphone for detecting thoracic breathing sounds and / or PR. The accelerometer(s) may enable the device lOlx to measure RE, and optionally, position and / or motion detecting, for example, body position and / or motions (e.g., breathing and / or wake related motions). The light sensor may enable the device 10 lx to measure SpCh and / or PR. Other sensors may be included in or with the device 10 lx, such as voltage and / or current sensors for determining biopotential and / or determining battery parameters and conditions, and / or the like.

[0123] In any of the aforementioned implementations, data synchronization techniques may be used to synchronize data collected by different data sensing devices lOla-g and 10 lx. In oneexample, data collected by the device 10 lx may be time synchronized with data collected by the finger sensor lOlf and / or biopotential measurement device lOle, such as, via short-range communication between the device lOlx and device lOle, lOlf. In another example, data collected by the device lOlx may be time synchronized with data collected by the devices lOle, lOlf via short-range communication between the device lOlx, devices lOle, lOlf, and target system 110. Additionally or alternatively, such measured data signals may be synchronized by time stamping.

[0124] In any of the aforementioned implementations, the evaluation or processing of the biosignals captured / collected using device 10 lx can include inputting or feeding such biosignals with other data collected by other data gathering device(s) lOla-g to one or more untrained machine learning (ML) models (e.g., as a training dataset). The training dataset can include labeled or unlabeled data. The one or more untrained ML models use the input training data to learn one or more patterns about the monitored users 102, such as sleep health or other physiological aspects. For example, model parameters (e.g., weights, biases, and / or the like) of the untrained model(s) may be initialized with random or default values, and during a training process, the untrained model(s) learn from the input training data by adjusting the model parameters based on the training dataset, which may be done using suitable optimization algorithms, loss functions, and / or the like. Additionally or alternatively, the evaluation or processing of the monitored biosignals can include inputting or feeding the monitored biosignals captured / collected using device 10 lx, optionally with other data collected by other data gathering device(s) lOla-g (e.g., as an inference dataset), to one or more trained ML models. The one or more trained ML models uses the input data to generate one or more inferences about sleep related information, such as the sleep staging, of the monitored patient.

[0125] The physiological assessment purposes mentioned previously may include, for example, generating medical records and analyses, diagnosing medical conditions, supporting remote patient monitoring, monitoring and / or calibrating individual athletic performance, and / or adjusting patient treatment modalities such as by controlling operational parameters of other medical devices, such as determining and / or changing control parameters of a therapy device such as a respiratory therapy device. In one example, the contact sensor measurement device 10 lx may be used to continuously monitor and track patient vital signs in real-time (or near real-time) to detect anomalies and enable prompt medical interventions. In another example, the device 10 lx may facilitate telemedicine and support remote patient monitoring by providing real-time health data to clinicians or other healthcare professionals.

[0126] In yet another example, example, the contact sensor measurement device 10 lx may be used to detect or identify a patient’ s sleep health. Here, detecting or identifying sleep health may involve detecting and / or diagnosing the user’s 102 sleep states, sleep disordered breathing events, sleeppatterns, and / or identifying other sleep related information. Additionally or alternatively, detecting or identifying sleep health may involve generating a sleep health assessment or other data visualization related to the collected sensor data. Additionally or alternatively, detecting or identifying sleep health may involve controlling a therapy device such as an RPT device 101 d by, for example, adjusting one or more of the therapy device’s operational parameters such as pressure settings, flow rate, and / or the like. When the monitoring and detection system of the present technology is used as an HSAT system, the HSAT system may provide automated sleep staging detection that is at least comparable to standard visual sleep scoring of typical PSG systems. The HSAT monitoring and detection system may attain similar functionality as in-lab PSG systems while being usable in in-home scenarios, use fewer components than typical in-lab PSG systems, and provide enhanced user experience in terms of improved ease-of-use and user comfort.5.3.1. Contact Sensor Measurement Device

[0127] As previously described, biosignals can be measured using a multi-channel contact sensor device, such as the contact sensor measurement device 10 lx, which is designed to be worn on the chest as shown by Figs. 4 A and 4C-1 to 4C-2, neck as shown by Figs. 4B-1 and 4B-2, and / or other parts of a user’s 102 body. The contact sensor measurement device 10 lx is a compact, lightweight, wearable, wireless system enclosed in a small form -factor housing. The device 10 lx may be implemented to integrate advanced sensing technologies into a standalone unit. For example, some implementations of the present technology include one or more MEMS devices that are smaller than conventional sensing technologies, which allows such a multi-channel contact sensor device to be embedded in garments, chest straps, adhesive patches, travel pillows, and / or other items. Thus, the small form-factor of the present technology may enhance user comfort during operation of the device.

[0128] The device 10 lx is configured to monitor physiological measures or parameters such as breathing rate, heart rate, and blood oxygen saturation, and supports both continuous and batch monitoring of such parameters. The device 10 lx may be configured to wirelessly transmit the collected data to one or more external systems such as wireless devices 114 (e.g., smartphones, smartwatches, tablets, etc.), data collection devices 101 (e.g., smartwatches 101a, RPT machines 101 d, HSAT devices 101g, etc.), and / or server(s) 112 (e.g., cloud platforms, etc.). By streamlining data acquisition, the device 10 lx enhances user comfort and supports sleep apnea diagnostics and broader healthcare monitoring applications.

[0129] When incorporated into a HSAT system, the device 10 lx may expand the scope of sleep apnea testing, improve the accuracy of total sleep time (TST) estimation, and / or facilitate advanced phenotyping of sleep apnea, such as to detect sleep disordered breathing events, such as apnea, hypopnea, which may be obstructive or central, snoring, etc. Additionally, the device 10 lx iscapable of achieving functionality comparable to multi-sensor HSAT systems and in-lab PSG systems, while optimizing ease of use, user comfort, and overall cost. In combination with a target system 110, the device lOlx also has the potential to replace specialized HST monitoring equipment, such as in-lab PSG systems and HSAT devices 101g, further enhancing the efficiency and accessibility of sleep apnea testing. Aspects of the contact sensor measurement device 10 lx may be considered in reference to Figs. 3 through 8.5.3.1.1. Contact Sensor Measurement Device Attachment Assemblies

[0130] Referring to Fig. 3, example attachment assemblies for the contact sensor measurement device 10 lx of the present technology, are shown. The term “attachment assembly” may refer to the structural component, device, or mechanism that couples or attaches the device 10 lx to the user’s 102 body for measuring biosignals. Thus, the device 10 lx comprises a sensor module 350 configured to couple or attach to an attachment assembly. As illustrated by Fig. 3, the contact sensor measurement device lOlx may include a patch attachment assembly 300, patch attachment assembly 301, belt attachment assembly 302, or a travel pillow attachment assembly 303.

[0131] Patch attachment assemblies 300 and 301 each include a sensor module 350 associated with patch bodies 310A and 310B, respectively. In patch attachment assembly 300, the sensor module 350 is integrated with patch body 310A, forming a single, unified unit with the sensor module permanently affixed to the patch body 310A. Thus, patch attachment assembly 300 may be referred to as an integrated sensor patch. Conversely, in patch attachment assembly 301 the sensor module 350 can be detached from and reattached to the patch body 310B. Thus, patch attachment assembly 301 may be referred to as a modular sensor patch. The modularity of the modular sensor patch 301 allows the same sensor module 350 to be used with different adhesive patches, or other attachment assembly types such as belt attachment assembly 302, travel pillow attachment assembly 303, or other attachment assemblies.

[0132] Patch attachment assemblies 300 and 301 enable the contact sensor measurement device 10 lx to be attached to different regions of the user’s 102 body. For example, Fig. 4A shows the patch attachment assembly 300 as being attached to the center of the thorax 410 of user 102. The thorax 410, otherwise known as the torso or chest, is the part of the human body inferior to the neck 420 and superior to the diaphragm, and contains relevant cardio-pulmonary organs. In the example of Fig. 4A, the device 10 lx is strategically placed over the sternum which is the midline bone of the ribcage encasing the thorax 410. Here, a vibroacoustic transducer, such as vibroacoustic sensor 750 (see Fig. 7 and section 5.3.1.4.4, infra), implemented in the sensor module 350 may be used to measure RF, RR, PR, and / or breath sounds by measuring or detecting vibrations conducted through the sternum. Additionally, a reflectance sensor, such as reflectance sensor 752 (see Fig. 7 and section 5.3.1.4.5, infra), implemented in the sensor module 350 maymeasure oxygen saturation by detecting light reflected from the thoracic tissue. Furthermore, a motion sensor, such as motion sensor 754 (see Fig. 7 and section Error! Reference source not found., infra), implemented by the sensor module 350 may be used to measure breathing effort and chest movement. Moreover, the motion sensor(s) implemented by the sensor module 350 can also be used to measure RF and / or RR through expansion and contraction of the chest with inspiration and exhalation, respectively.

[0133] The placement location on the central region of the thorax may be advantageous because the heart is left-lateral to the sternum and deep to the sternum, and therefore, the sensor module 350 can measure PR and SpCh more accurately in comparison to more distally attached sensor devices, such as finger sensor 10 If, which may provide less accurate information due to, for example, environmental factors such as cold fingers and the like.

[0134] Another example placement location is shown by Figs. 4B-1 and 4B-2, where the patch attachment assembly 300 is shown as being attached to the neck. Specifically, Fig. 4B-1 shows a front side of the body of user 102 and Fig. 4B-2 shows a back side of the body of user 102. In the example of Figs. 4B-1 and 4B-2, the patch attachment assembly 300 is shown as being attached to anatomical zones I and / or II of the neck 420 (see e.g., Fig. 4B-3), overlapping the anterior, lateral, and posterior neck 420. The neck 420 is defined as the area of the body superior to the clavicle and inferior to the mandible (jaw). The different anatomical zones of the neck are shown by Fig.4B-3.

[0135] Fig. 4B-3 shows different anatomical zones of the neck. The neck is classically divided into three zones, including: Zone I, II, and III. Zone I spans from the clavicles / stemum to the cricoid cartilage. Anatomic structures in zone I include proximal common carotid artery, subclavian artery, vertebral artery, lung apices, trachea, thyroid, esophagus, thoracic duct, and the spinal cord. Zone II spans from the cricoid cartilage to the angle of the mandible. Anatomic structures in zone II include carotid artery, vertebral artery, jugular vein, pharynx, trachea, esophagus, larynx, vagus nerve, and the recurrent laryngeal nerve. Zone III spans from the superior to the angle of the mandible to skull area. Anatomic structures in zone III include the vertebral artery, distal carotid artery, distal jugular vein, salivary and parotid glands, and cranial nerves IX - XII. The spinal cord spans all three zones.

[0136] In one form, the device 10 lx may be placed in zone II of the neck 420 (see Fig. 4B-3). Here, the device 10 lx may overlay the carotid artery and / or the jugular veins (not shown), where PR and / or SpCF may be detected and / or measured using the reflectance pulse oximeter (or reflective SpCh sensor) implemented in the sensor module 350. Additionally, the contact microphone, such as a bone-conductive microphone, implemented in the sensor module 350 may be used to measure RF / RR and PR by measuring or detecting vibrations of the pulmonary apex(top portion of the lungs), larynx, and other structures involved in breathing and speech, which may be conducted through the clavicle 430.

[0137] In another form, the device 10 lx may be placed on or over an area that overlaps both zones I and II of the neck 420 (see Fig. 4B-3). Here, the device 10 lx may overlay the subclavian vein and / or subclavian artery (not shown), where PR and / or SpCb may be detected and / or measured using the reflectance pulse oximeter (or reflective SpCh sensor) implemented in the sensor module 350. It should be noted that the subclavian vein and artery are typically located under the clavicle bone 430 and over the first rib (not shown). Additionally, the contact microphone, such as a bone-conductive microphone, implemented in the sensor module 350 may be used to measure RF / RR and PR by measuring or detecting vibrations of the pulmonary apex (top portion of the lungs), larynx, and other structures involved in breathing and speech, which may be conducted through the clavicle 430.

[0138] In either of the aforementioned forms, the accelerometer(s) implemented by the sensor module 350 can be used to measure and / or capture vibrations conducted through the neck 420 or clavicle 430, which may reflect overall respiratory activity, and thus, indirectly reflect RR. Additionally or alternatively, the accelerometer(s) implemented by the sensor module 350 could potentially be used to measure RF and / or RR through expansion and contraction of the lungs with inspiration and exhalation, respectively.

[0139] Furthermore, it should be noted that the patch attachment assembly 301 can be attached to the user’s 102 body in a same or similar manner as the patch attachment assembly 300 as shown by Figs. 4A, 4B-1, and 4B-2.

[0140] The patches 300, 301 may be implemented as skin contact patches where one (bottom) side of the patch body 310A, 310B comes into contact with tissue and mechanically couples with the tissue for signal transduction. For example, the patch bodies 310A, 310B may be dry patches applied directly to the skin, which may be attached to the user 102 using tape, gauze, straps, adhesives, and / or other the like. Alternatively, the patch bodies 310A, 310B may be applied indirectly to the skin as wet patches, wherein a paste or adhesive is disposed between the tissue and the patch bodies 310A, 310B. Such paste or adhesive may be applied to the bottom, or skinfacing surface, of the patch bodies 310A, 310B. The other (top) side of the patch body 310A, 310B includes the sensor module 350. However, as discussed in more detail infra, the patch bodies 310A, 310B may have a cutout portion, or sensor window, through which a face of the sensor module 350 may extend and make contact with the tissue.

[0141] The patch bodies 310A, 310B may be formed using any suitable materials, such as any combination of silicone, foam, polyester, nylon, various fabrics, polyethylene, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), polyurethane, rayon acetate, and / or otherknown materials, or composites thereof. The patch bodies 310A, 31 OB may also include any suitable adhesive material, or may be formed of a self-adhesive layer.

[0142] As shown by Figs. 3 and 4A, the patches 300, 301 may be oval or bean shaped pads. It should be understood that the electrode patches / pads can be formed in any suitable shape, such as square, rectangular, circular, crescent, needle-shaped, irregular shapes, among many other possibilities. Additionally, aspects discussed in the present disclosure related to the patch 300 may also apply to the patch 301, and vice versa, unless explicitly stated otherwise. Furthermore, aspects discussed in the present disclosure related to the patch 300 and / or 301 may also apply to the other patch attachment assemblies 302 and / or 303, and vice versa, unless explicitly stated otherwise.

[0143] Fig. 3 also shows a belt attachment assembly 302, which includes a module section 320 connected to strap 330 comprising strap arms 330-1 and 330-2. The strap 330, which may also be referred to as belt 330 or the like, may be tightened and adjusted to fit the torso 410 of user 102, as shown by Figs. 4C-1 and 4C-2. The strap arms 330-1 and 330-2 may connect to one another on the back side of the user’s 102 body using any suitable fastener or coupling mechanism, such a carabiner, clasp, hook-and-eye closure, hook-and-loop fastener, quick-release buckle clips, snap fastener (e.g., snap button, press button, etc.), Velcro, zipper, magnets, or other fastening and / or coupling mechanism (not shown).

[0144] The strap arms 330-1 and 330-2 may be formed of a substantially elastic material, or combination of materials, such that they are configured to stretch when the strap 330 is worn. In some forms, the module section 320 may be formed of a substantially inelastic material, or combination of materials, positioned at least partially in a front portion of the strap 330 and configured to cover at least a center portion of the torso 410. The strap 330 is generally worn high on the torso 410, just below the chest or pectorals, so that the sensor module 350 can contact the user's 102 skin in the vicinity of the heart. This positioning may provide an optimal position on a torso 410 to sense PR, RR, SpCh, breath sounds, and breath movements for the same or similar reasons as discussed previously with respect to Fig. 4A.

[0145] Figs. 4C-1 and 4C-2 show that the sensor module 350 having different orientations in relation to the module section 320 and the torso 410. The orientation of the sensor module 350 when coupled to the module section 320 and the user’s 102 body may be based on the shape / geometry of the housing of the sensor module 350 and / or the geometry of the attachment location / position on the user’s 102 body. The orientation of the sensor module 350 may also be applicable to other types of attachment assemblies, such as patch attachment assemblies 300, 301 or the like.

[0146] The strap arms 330-1, 330-2 and / or the module section 320 may be manufactured or otherwise formed from any suitable material or combination of materials. Examples of suchmaterial(s) may include textiles and / or fabrics such as nylon, polyester, nylon and polyester blends, elastane (Spandex or Lycra), polyamide, cotton, canvas, linen, wool, gum, elastin, synthetic fibers, natural and / or synthetic rubber, latex, neoprene, ethylene propylene diene terpolymer (EPDM), polypropylene, elastic polyurethane, vinyl, silicon, any desired elastomer, and / or any other suitable material, and / or combinations thereof. In some forms, a padding material may be integrated with the strap arms 330-1, 330-2 and / or the module section 320. Such padding material may be formed from various materials such as, for example, natural and / or synthetic rubber, silicone, silicone rubber, polyurethane, thermoplastic elastomers (TPE), acetate, memory foam and / or other foams, gels, gelatin, and / or other material(s) with similar properties. In some forms, the belt attachment assembly 302 can be integrated within a textile or garment such as, for example, a compression shirt or sports bra. In other forms, the module section 320 and sensor module 350 can be integrated into such a textile or garment without the strap 330.

[0147] Fig. 3 also shows a travel pillow attachment assembly 303, where the sensor module 350 may be attached to an inner portion or side of travel pillow 340. The travel pillow 340 is also referred to as a neck pillow or the like, and thus, the travel pillow attachment assembly 303 may also be referred to as a neck pillow attachment assembly 303 or the like. Travel pillow 340 may provide support for the neck 420 when the user 102 is in a sitting position. The U-shape or horseshoe shape of the pillow 340 fits around the back of the neck 420 and may prevent the head from slipping into an uncomfortable and possibly harmful position during sleep.

[0148] The travel pillow 340 may be placed on the neck 420 of user 102, such that the sensor module 350 is placed against zone I and / or zone II of the neck 420. The travel pillow attachment assembly 303 may allow the sensor module 350 to measure various physiological signals / parameters in a same or similar manner as the patch attachment assembly 300 attached to the user’s 102 neck as discussed previously with respect to Figs. 4B-1, 4B-2, and 4B-3.

[0149] In some forms, the belt attachment assembly 302 and the travel pillow attachment assembly 303 may have a modular design allowing the sensor module 350 be detached from and reattached to the respective attachment assembly. This modular design may allow the same sensor module 350 to be used with new or different attachment assemblies, such as different adhesive patches, new or different belts, or new or different neck pillows. For example, the user 102 may replace a worn out adhesive patch with a new adhesive patch by attaching their sensor module 350 to the new adhesive patch. In another example, the user 102 may detach their sensor module 350 from their belt 302 and attach the sensor module 350 to their neck pillow 303 when travelling.5.3.1.2. Modular Contact Sensor Measurement Device Subassemblies

[0150] Referring now to Figs. 5 A to 51, which show various views of modular sensor assemblies of the contact sensor measurement device 10 lx. In particular, Fig. 5 A shows a top perspectiveview 501 A of a first modular contact sensor device subassembly; Fig. 5B shows side views 501B and 501C of the first modular contact sensor device subassembly; Fig. 5C shows a top perspective view 502A of a second modular contact sensor device subassembly; Fig. 5D shows side views 502B and 502C of the second modular contact sensor device subassembly; Fig. 5E shows a top perspective view 503 A of a third modular contact sensor device subassembly; Fig. 5F shows side views 503B and 503C of the third modular contact sensor device subassembly; Fig. 5G shows side views 503D and 503E of a variant of the third modular contact sensor device subassembly; Fig. 5H shows side views 503F and 503G of a fourth modular contact sensor device subassembly; and Fig. 51 shows top views 504A and 504B of a fifth modular contact sensor device subassembly.

[0151] Each of the example modular contact sensor assemblies of Figs. 5A-5I includes a sensor module 350 comprising a protective housing 550 that encases and protects the internal components of the sensor module 350. The housing 550 of the sensor module 350 includes a sensor face 555 configured to make direct contact with a human body of a user 102 for physiological data collection. The modular contact sensor assemblies of Figs. 5A-5H allow for accurate alignment of the sensor module 350, enable direct contact of the sensor module 350 with a human body, and provide efficient functionality of the sensor module 350 during operation.

[0152] Figs. 5A-5H illustrate respective series of views showing different modular contact sensor assemblies including interactions between a sensor module 350 and an attachment section 520. The attachment section 520 may belong to any type of attachment assembly, such as those discussed previously in relation to Figs. 3 to 4C-2. For example, attachment section 520 may correspond to the module section 320 of belt attachment assembly 302, patch body 310B of the patch attachment assembly 301, or a module section disposed on neck pillow of travel pillow attachment assembly 303. Figs. 5A-5H demonstrate examples of the positioning, alignment, and mounting of the sensor module 350 in relation to the attachment section 520 for use of the contact sensor measurement device lOlx.

[0153] In the examples of Figs. 5A-5H, a sensor window 599 is cut out of, or otherwise formed from, the attachment section 520. The window 599 is positioned in a substantially central location within the attachment section 520. The window 599 facilitates alignment of the sensor module 350 on the attachment section 520, and provides access for the sensor face 555 to make contact with the user’s 102 skin. The sensor face 555 of the housing 550 may extend through the window 599, enabling direct interaction between the sensor face 555 and the intended surface. The attachment section 520 also incorporates mechanical fasteners to support the attachment and secure positioning of the sensor module 350 for obtaining sensor readings.

[0154] Figs. 5 A-5D show example assemblies where the attachment section 520 includes a module plate 510 and Figs. 5E-5H show example assemblies where the attachment section 520 does notinclude a module plate 510. The module plate 510 serves as a structural platform for mounting the sensor module 350 on to the attachment section 520. The module plate 510 also incorporates mechanical fasteners for coupling the sensor module 350 to the attachment section 520. Additionally, the sensor window 599 is cut out of, or otherwise formed from, the module plate 510. The window 599 is positioned in a substantially central location within the module plate 510. Fig. 51 shows an example assembly including a mounting frame 560 through which an attachment section 580 is fed.5.3.1.2.1. Snap Connector Connection Mechanism

[0155] Figs. 5A-5B shows views 501A, 501B, and 501C of a first modular contact sensor device subassembly in accordance with the present technology. The first modular contact sensor device subassembly includes a module plate 510, also referred to herein as mounting plate, disposed on or embedded in the attachment section 520. In example depicted by Fig. 5B, the module plate 510 is shown as being embedded in and flush with a top surface 521 of the attachment section 520. In other forms, the module plate 510 may be disposed on top of the sensor section 520 such that the module plate 510 extends upwards from the attachment section 520.

[0156] The first modular contact sensor device subassembly includes mechanical fasteners, such as snap connectors, for attaching and detaching the sensor module 350 to and from the module plate 510 and / or attachment section 520. The snap connectors may be standalone mechanical or electrical connectors that click or “snap” into place to form a secure yet removable connection between two components. In this example, the snap connectors include female portions 525 A- 1 and 525 A-2 that are embedded in or otherwise attached at different sides of the module plate 510. The male portions 526 A- 1 and 526 A-2 of the mechanical fasteners extend downward and away from respective sides of the sensor mount sections 511. In other forms, the male portions 526 A- 1 and 526A-2 may be attached to the module plate 510 and extend substantially upwards from respective sides / ends of the module plate 510, and the corresponding female portions 525A-1 and 525 A-2 of the fasteners may be built into respective sides of the sensor mount sections 511. The male portions 526 A- 1 and 526 A-2 of the fasteners are configured to be received by the corresponding female portions 525A-1 and 525A-2 of the fasteners. In this example, female portion 525A-1 is configured to receives male portion 526A-1 and female portion 525A-2 is configured to receives male portion 526A-2. The placement of the male portions 526A-1, 526A-2 and female portions 525A-1, 525 A-2 may be done in such a way as to facilitate proper alignment, securement, and stability of the sensor module 350 when connected to the attachment section 520.

[0157] The bottom-facing side of the sensor module housing 550 includes sensor mount sections 511 and a protrusion element 556 that includes a sensor face 555. The sensor mount sections 511 interface with corresponding portions of the module plate 510. The protrusion 556 of the housing550 protrudes or extends from a body of the housing 550. The length or height of the protrusion 556 may correspond to a depth of the window 599 in the module plate 510. For example, the length or height of the protrusion 556 may be substantially the same as the depth of the window 599. The depth of the window 599 may extend from an outward facing surface 521 of the attachment section 520 to a contact surface 522 of the attachment section 520. The window 599 may assist with proper alignment of the sensor module 350 with the attachment section 520 when connecting the sensor module 350 to the attachment section 520, and may also facilitate optimal sensor operation by allowing the sensor face 555 to protrude through the module plate 510.

[0158] Views 50 IB and 501C of Fig. 5B sequentially illustrate a connection or assembly process. View 501B shows the sensor module 350 aligned above the mounting plate 510 in preparation for installation or coupling with the attachment section 520. In view 50 IB, the sensor module 350 is initially positioned above the module plate 510, with the mount sections 511, sensor face 555, and male portions 526A-1 and 526A-2 aligned toward the mounting plate 510, window 599, and corresponding female portions 525 A- 1 and 525 A-2 of the fasteners, respectively.

[0159] View 501C shows the sensor module 350 installed or otherwise coupled with the mounting plate 510 of the attachment section 520. In view 501C, the sensor module 350 is fully seated on or within the attachment section 520, with the mount sections 511 of the housing 550 sitting flush on corresponding sections of the top surface of the module plate 510, engaged with the male portions 526A-1 and 526A-2 of the fasteners, engaged and / or coupled with the corresponding female portions 525 A- 1 and 525 A-2 of the fasteners, and the sensor face 555 extending through the window 599 of the module plate 510.5.3.1.2.2. Snap-Fit Connection Mechanism

[0160] Figs. 5C and 5D shows views 502A, 502B, and 502C of a second modular contact sensor device subassembly in accordance with the present technology. The second modular contact sensor device subassembly is similar to the first modular contact sensor device subassembly, but includes snap-fit connectors, sometimes referred to as snap joints, as the mechanical fasteners. The snap-fit connectors may be mechanical fastening or coupling elements that use a flexible and / or resilient latching mechanism to lock pieces or components together.

[0161] In the example of Figs. 5C and 5D, the snap-fit connectors include retaining tabs 525B-1 and 525B-2 that are embedded in or otherwise attached at different sides of the module plate 510 and extend upwards from the mounting plate 510. The retaining tabs 525B-1, 525B-2 may also be referred to as retaining arms, hook portions, hooks, retaining tabs, clamping tabs, tabs, or the like. As shown by Fig. 5C, the retaining tabs 525B-1, 525B-2 have a curved or arched geometry that are disposed on an outside perimeter of the mounting plate 510. In the example of Fig. 5C, the retaining tabs 525B-1, 525B-2 have a rounded profile towards the lateral ends of the mountingplate 510, substantially mirroring the outer perimeter of the mounting plate 510, and a slightly tapered profile that narrows toward the window's center. In other forms, a single retaining tab may be used that has a shape that complements the shape of the housing 550 and may completely surrounds the perimeter of the mounting plate 510.

[0162] As shown by Fig. 5D, the retaining tabs 525B-1, 525B-2 include a portion that extends inward toward the center of the window 599. The inward orientation allows the retaining tabs 525B-1, 525B-2 to securely engage with the ledge 524 on the housing 550, preventing lateral displacement of the sensor module 350 after the sensor module 350 is coupled to the attachment section 520.

[0163] The housing 550 also includes a ledge 524. The ledge 524 aids in positioning and securing the sensor module during installation of the sensor module 350 to the attachment section 520. The ledge 524 includes ledge portions 526B-1 and 526B-2 that extend laterally and away from respective sides of the sensor module 350. The ledge 524 may also be referred to as a ridge, rail, or the like, and therefore, ledge portions 526B-1 and 526B-2 may also be referred to as ridge portions, rail portions, and / or the like. The ledge portions 526B-1, 526B-2 work in conjunction with the retaining tabs 525B-1, 525B-2 to ensure the sensor module 350 is securely attached to the mounting plate 510.

[0164] The retaining tabs 525B-1 and 525B-2 include a curved or inwardly arched profile, allowing them to function as latch mechanisms for securing the sensor module 350 to the mounting plate 510 and / or attachment section 520. Thus, the retaining tabs 525B-1 and 525B-2 are configured to latch onto corresponding ledge portions 526B-1 and 526B-2 of the housing 550 to hold the sensor module 350 in place, when installed. The retaining tabs 525B-1 and 525B-2 may be configured to snap-on or clip-on to the corresponding ledge portions 526B-1 and 526B-2 when the sensor module 350 is placed in or on to the module plate 510.

[0165] View 502B shows the sensor module 350 aligned above the mounting plate 510 in preparation for installation or coupling of the sensor module 350 to the attachment section 520. The sensor mount section 511, protrusion 556, and ledge portions 526B-1, 526B-2 are aligned with the mounting plate 510, window 599, and retaining tabs 525B-1, 525B-2, respectively. The sensor face 555 is positioned to align with the sensor window 599.

[0166] View 502C shows the sensor module 350 installed in or on the attachment section 520 with the retaining tabs 525B-1, 525B-2 engaged with the ledge portions 526B-1, 526B-2, securely coupling the sensor module 350 to the mounting plate 510. The sensor face 555 is shown protruding 556 through the sensor window 599.

[0167] In some forms, the retaining tabs 525B-1 and 525B-2 may be formed to be somewhat flexible to accommodate attachment of the sensor module 350 to the module plate 510. Forexample, when the sensor module 350 is being installed on or in the attachment section 520, one or more of the retaining tabs 525B-1 and 525B-2 may bend laterally outward and away from a center of the window 599 to accommodate the ledge portions 526B-1 and 526B-2. Thus, the retaining tabs 525B-1 and 525B-2 may clip or snap onto the protruding ledge portions 526B-1 and 526B-2 on the housing 550. This may allow the sensor module 350 to fit snuggly between the retaining tabs 525B-1 and 525B-2 when installed in / on the attachment section 520, which may facilitate proper alignment, securement, and stability of the sensor module 350 when connected to the attachment section 520. The snap-fit fastening may also allow for relatively easy removal of the sensor module 350 from the attachment section 520, when needed.

[0168] Figs. 5E and 5F show views 503A, 503B, and 503C of a third modular contact sensor device subassembly in accordance with the present technology. The third modular contact sensor device subassembly is substantially similar to the second modular contact sensor device subassembly except that the third modular contact sensor device subassembly does not include a mounting plate 510 or a protrusion element 556. As a result, the sensor face 555 is relatively flat and is configured to be in direct contact with the intended surface while remaining relatively flush with the contact surface 522 of the attachment section 520. In some forms, the sensor face 555 may have a slightly rounded shape or rather than being relatively flat as shown.

[0169] View 503B shows the sensor module 350 positioned above the attachment section 520 in preparation for installation. The relatively flat sensor face 555 is aligned with the attachment section 520, and the retaining tabs 525B-1, 525B-2 are positioned to engage with the ledge portions 526B-1, 526B-2 of the housing 550. View 503C shows the third modular contact sensor device subassembly after installation. The retaining tabs 525B-1, 525B-2 securely engage the ledge portions 526B-1, 526B-2 to hold the sensor module 350 in place. The flat sensor face 555 is shown in direct contact with the intended surface and flush with the attachment section 520.

[0170] The absence of a mounting plate 510 and protrusion element 556 in this configuration simplifies the modular contact sensor device subassembly and may reduce the overall thickness of the sensor module 350. Thus, the third modular contact sensor device subassembly may be advantageous for applications requiring a low-profile sensor device lOlx. The flat sensor face 555 may also facilitate consistent and uniform contact with the intended surface, improving the accuracy and reliability of the sensor's measurements and collection. Additionally, the simplified design may facilitate easier cleaning and maintenance of the sensor face 555 due to the elimination of protruding element 556.

[0171] Fig. 5G shows side views 503D and 503E of a variant of the third modular contact sensor device subassembly in accordance with the present technology. The variant of the third modular contact sensor device subassembly utilizes the snap-fit connection mechanisms discussedpreviously in relation to Figs. 5C-5F. In this example, the housing 550 includes a recess 527 that extends inwards towards a center of the sensor module 350. The recess 527 may also be referred to as a channel, trench, groove, or the like. The recess 527 may extend around the circumference or perimeter of the housing 550.

[0172] In this example, the sensor module 350 is enclosed in a streamlined housing 550 that includes a relatively flat sensor face 555 and an inwardly facing recess 527 integrated into the body of the housing 550. The recess 527 is a relatively shallow groove or channel on the sides of the housing 550 that is configured to engage with the retaining tabs 525B-1, 525B-2 to allow the sensor module 350 to sit securely on or in the attachment section 520. In some forms, the recess 527 may wrap around the entire perimeter of the housing 550. In the example of Fig. 5G, the recess 527 is formed closer to the sensor face 555 than the top portion of the housing 550. In other forms, the recess 527 maybe formed closer to the top portion of the housing 550 than the sensor face 555.

[0173] The retaining tabs 525B-1, 525B-2 are positioned on or around the perimeter of the sensor window 599 in a same or similar manner as the second and third modular contact sensor assemblies. In this example, the retaining tabs 525B-1 and 525B-2 are configured to fit within the recess 527 of the housing 550 when the sensor module 350 is installed in / on to the attachment section 520. Thus, the retaining tabs 525B-1 and 525B-2 may clip-in or snap-in to the recess 527 on the housing 550. This may allow the retaining tabs 525B-1 and 525B-2 to retain the sensor module 350 when installed in / on the attachment section 520, which may facilitate proper alignment, securement, and stability of the sensor module 350 when connected to the attachment section 520.

[0174] In some forms, the retaining tabs 525B-1 and 525B-2 may be formed to be somewhat flexible to accommodate removal of the sensor module 350 from the attachment section 520. For example, at least one of the retaining tabs 525B-1 and 525B-2 may be bent or pulled away from the recess 527 to detach the sensor module 350 from the attachment section 520. The inclusion of the recess 527 with the retaining tabs 525B-1 and 525B-2 may provide a more secure fit than other forms of the assembly and may potentially minimize the risk of misalignment or displacement during operation.

[0175] It should also be noted that additional or alternative snap-fit connection mechanisms may be used in addition or alternatively to the snap-fit mechanism examples shown by Figs. 5C-5G. For example, in some forms, the snap-fit connection mechanisms that may be incorporated into the attachment section 520 and / or the housing 550 may include annular, cantilever, torsional, positional, U-shaped, and / or custom designed snap joints.5.3.1.2.3. Cradle Connection Mechanism

[0176] Fig. 5H shows views 503F and 503 G of a fourth modular contact sensor devicesubassembly in accordance with the present technology. The fourth modular contact sensor device subassembly includes a sensor module 350 designed to integrate with the attachment section 520 using a cradle mechanism which includes a set of cradle arms 525C-1, 525C-2. The cradle arms 525C-1, 525C-2 may secure the sensor module 350 by partially wrapping around the housing 550 of the sensor module 350. The set of cradle arms 525C-1, 525C-2 may be a flexible or resilient locking mechanism that allows the sensor module 350 to “snap” securely into place. Therefore, in some forms, the cradle mechanism may be considered a type of snap-fit connector.

[0177] The cradle arms 525C-1, 525C-2 are configured to cradle the housing 550 of the sensor module 350 to hold it securely in place, allowing for easy insertion and removal to and from the attachment section 520. In this regard, each of the cradle arms 525C-1, 525C-2 may have a shape or profile that generally follows the contours of portion of the housing 550 that it is configured to receive, such that each cradle arm 525C-1, 525C-2 complements the shape of its corresponding portion of the housing 550 to hold the sensor module 350 securely in place. For example, each of the cradle arms 525C-1, 525C-2 in Fig. 5H extend upward and include a top portion that slightly curves inward from the attachment section 520. Additionally, each of the cradle arms 525C-1, 525C-2 include a bottom portion that slightly curve inward from the attachment section 520. The angle of these curvatures may be based on the geometry of the housing 550, such that the cradle arms 525C-1, 525C-2 provide a snug fit on or around a portion of the housing 550. Thus, the cradle arms 525C-1, 525C-2 may have a curved or contoured profile that generally follows the dome-like contour of the housing 550, such that the cradle arms 525C-1, 525C-2 complement the shape of the housing 550. In some forms, the cradle arms 525C-1, 525C-2 may also accommodate slight variations in the housing's 550 dimensions making them at least somewhat interchangeable with other sensor modules 350 that may have different shaped housings 550. The curved cradle arms 525C-1, 525C-2 and streamlined housing 550 with a flush contact surface 555 may provide a compact and / or low-profile form factor, which could be advantageous for maintaining alignment of the sensor module 350 on the appropriate area of the body during operation, such as during sleep.

[0178] The cradle arms 525C-1, 525C-2 may provide a flexible and intuitive mechanism for attaching and detaching the sensor module 350 from the attachment section 520, which could be beneficial for frequent maintenance or replacement. The cradle arms 525C-1, 525C-2 may allow the sensor module 350 to remain stable during operation without the need for additional recesses or interlocking features. By eliminating the need for recesses or retaining tabs, the cradle-based assembly may reduce manufacturing complexity and / or manufacturing cost while maintaining structural integrity.

[0179] Although such interlocking features may not be necessary, in some forms, the fourthmodular contact sensor device subassembly also include interlocking features to provide additional stability and security for the sensor module 350. For example, the fourth modular contact sensor device subassembly may also include a recess 527 in the housing 550 configured to engage with corresponding retaining tabs 525B-1 and 525B-2 on the attachment section 520 (not shown by Fig.5G).5.3.1.2.4. Feed-through Frame Connection Mechanism

[0180] Fig. 51 shows views 504A and 504B of a fifth modular contact sensor device subassembly in accordance with the present technology. The fifth modular contact sensor device subassembly may include a mounting system for the sensor module 350. In the example of Fig. 51, the housing 550 of the sensor module 350 includes a sensor face, such as sensor face 555, oriented perpendicular to the viewing plane and obscured in views 504A, 504B.

[0181] The mounting system comprises a mounting frame 560 coupled to the housing 550 of the sensor module 350. In the example of Fig. 51, the mounting frame 560 is a rectangular structure with rounded edges that is coupled to a top portion of the housing 550 and secures the housing 550 to the attachment section 580. The frame 560, and potentially the frame arms 565, may be configured to provide stable mounting point for fixing the sensor module 350 to the attachment section 580. For example, the frame 560 may provide support by bracing against external forces, such as forces generated when strapping the modular contact sensor device subassembly against the body of the user 102, and therefore, ensure stable positioning during operation.

[0182] The frame 560 includes frame arms 565 integrated into the frame 560 at opposite ends of the frame 560. In some forms, the frame arms 565 may extend outward (away from the page) from the mounting frame 560. In some forms, the frame arms 565 may protrude laterally from the frame 560. The frame arms 565 form respective slots 566 through which the attachment section 580 may be threaded, as shown by view 504B.

[0183] The frame arms 565 may be formed as smooth, rounded extensions of the frame 560. In one form, the frame arms 565 may be shaped and / or formed from the body of the frame 560, for example, by cutting slots 566 in the frame 560 and bending the arms 565 away from the frame 560. In another form, the frame arms 565 may be separately formed and attached to the frame 560 through welding, fastening, adhesive, joinery, or other suitable coupling methods / mechanisms. The frame 560 and / or frame arms 565 may be manufactured from the same or similar material(s) as the housing 550 or from different material(s) selected for specific requirements. For example, the frame 560 and / or frame arms 565 may be constructed from reinforced plastic(s) and / or metal(s). In some forms, some or all portions of the frame 560 and / or frame arms 565 may be coated with a rubberized material and / or other material(s) to improve grip, prevent slippage, and reduce wear. Examples of such material(s) are discussed infra in relation to the materials used tomanufacture the housing 550 (see section 5.3.1.3).

[0184] Fasteners 570 are positioned at strategic points through the frame 560 to secure the frame 560 to the housing 550. Note that not all fasteners 570 are labeled in Fig. 51. The fasteners 570 are symmetrically positioned at the comers of the frame 560 to secure the frame 560 to the housing 550. In the example of Fig. 51, the fasteners 570 may be screws that pass through predrilled holes in the frame 560 and extend into corresponding threaded holes, or threaded inserts, in the housing 550. In other forms, additional or alternative mechanical fasteners may be used, such as snap-fit connectors, snap connectors, buttons, bolts and nuts, clamps, clasps, clips, dowels, grommets, hook-and-eye closures, hook-and-loop fasteners, latches, nails, pins, rivets, staples, ties, and / or the like. In some forms, adhesive materials may additionally or alternatively be used to attach the frame 560 to the housing 550. The fasteners 570 may be made of any suitable material(s), such as metals, metal alloys, plastics, wood, glass, carbon fiber, and / or any other materials, including any mentioned herein.

[0185] The attachment section 580 extends from one side of the assembly, providing a means for mounting the entire contact sensor assembly to the body of user 102. In some forms, the attachment section 580 may be a chest strap or belt, which may be the same or similar to the belt attachment assembly 303 discussed previously in relation to Figs. 3, 4C-1, and 4C-2. In other forms, the attachment section 580 may belong to any other type of attachment assembly, such as those discussed previously in relation to Figs. 3 to 4C-2. In the example of Fig. 51, a pull tab 581 is integrated with the attachment section 580 to facilitate threading of the attachment section 580 into the slots 566 of the frame 560.

[0186] View 504A shows the mounting frame 560 attached to the housing 550 of the sensor module 350 in preparation for installation or coupling of the attachment section 580 to the frame 560. View 504B shows the attachment section 580 threaded through the arms 565 of the frame 560, securely coupling the sensor module 350 to the attachment section 580. The attachment section 580 may be threaded through the arms 565 using the pull tab 581.5.3.1.3. Housing

[0187] A contact sensor measurement device 10 lx in accordance with the present technology may include a housing, such as housing 550 of sensor module 350. Fig. 6 shows top perspective view 600 of an example housing 650. The housing 650 contains or otherwise includes various components of the sensor module 350, such as measurement sensors / transducers that generates sensor data representative of measured biosignals and the like. The components of the sensor module 350 are described in more detail infra in relation to Fig. 7 (see section 5.3.1.4).

[0188] In some forms, the housing 650 may have a substantially oval or elliptical shape. In other forms, the housing 650 may have a different shape or geometry, such as any of theshapes / geometries of housing 550 shown by Figs. 3 to 51. The housing 650 may also incorporate any of the connection mechanisms discussed previously with respect to Figs 3 to 51, and thus, may be configured to couple with any of the types of attachment assemblies discussed herein.

[0189] The housing 650 may be manufactured or otherwise formed from rigid material(s) such as plastic(s) and / or thermoplastic(s) (e.g., acrylic fiber, acrylic resin, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), cellulose acetate, cellulose propionate, My kita® Mylon, nylon, polycarbonate (PC), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polylactic acid (PLA), polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), polypropylene (PP), optyl, synthetic polyamides, etc.) and / or other high-strength polymers, metals and / or alloys (e.g., aluminum, stainless steel, nickel, titanium, beryllium, silver, nitinol, monel, etc.), carbon fiber, fiberglass, Kevlar, vinyl, (tempered) glass, mineral glass, aluminosilicate glass, composite glass (e.g., glass-ceramic, fiber-reinforced glass, laminated glass, etc.), acrylic glass (plexiglass), sapphire crystal, opal, ceramic material(s), and / or any other material(s) with similar properties. In some forms, one or more surface finishes or textures, or coatings may also be applied to the surface of the housing 650, such as anti-glare or matte finish, anti -reflective coatings (e.g., magnesium fluoride, titanium dioxide, etc.) ground finish, sapphire coating, scratch -resistant coatings (e.g., diamond-like carbon (DLC), etc.), oleophobic coatings (e.g., silane-based molecules, fluoropolymers (PF AS), etc.), hydrophobic coatings (e.g., silane-based molecules, PFAS, etc.), and / or the like.

[0190] In some forms, the housing 650 may comprise multiple components or parts that, when assembled together, form an enclosure for protecting internal components of the sensor module 350. For example, the housing 650 may include a first housing portion 651 and a second housing portion 652 configured to mate with one another along a seam or joint interface 653. The housing portions 651, 652 may be coupled or attached to one another using a fastening mechanism, such as snap connectors, snap-fit connectors / joints (e.g., annular, cantilever, torsional, positional, U-shaped, custom designed snap joints, etc.), bolts, buttons, clamps, clasps, clips, dowels, grommets, hook-and-eye closures, hook-and-loop fasteners, latches, nails, pins, rivets, screws, staples, ties, and / or the like. In some forms, adhesive materials may additionally or alternatively be used to couple the housing portions 651, 652 together. In some forms, the interface 653 between housing portions 651, 652 may incorporate sealing element(s), such as grooves, ridges, gaskets, O-rings, induction sealants, adhesive sealants, and the like to provide environmental protection and / or water / sweat resistance (e.g., to a desired ingress protection code (IPC) rating, etc.). In some forms, the housing portions 651, 652 and / or sealing element(s) may include one or more protective coatings for anti-corrosion, reduce wear, chemical resistance to chemical cleaning agents, biocompatibility for skin contact, protection from environmental elements, and / or the like.

[0191] Fig. 6 also shows a bottom view 605 of the sensor housing 650. View 605 shows a sensorface 655, which may be the same or similar to the sensor face 555 discussed previously. In this example, the sensor face 655 includes an acoustic port 610 and aperture 620.

[0192] Acoustic port 610, which may also be referred to as a sound port or acoustic aperture, may be part of a MEMS contact microphone, such as vibroacoustic sensor 750 of Fig. 7, implemented in the sensor module 350 which may be used to measure RF, RR, PR, and / or breath sounds (e.g., sound of inhalation and exhalation flow during or respiration cycles) by measuring or detecting vibrations conducted through the sternum or other boney structures. In the example of Fig. 6, the acoustic port 610 has a circular shape. In other forms, the acoustic port 610 may have an oval shape, a rectangular shape, or may be in the form of a slotted port. In some forms, the diameter or width of the acoustic port 610 may be in the range of about 0.2 millimeters (mm) to 3mm. Additionally, the acoustic port 610 may be aligned with an acoustic port on the MEMS contact microphone, which extends from a surface of the package / enclosure of the MEMS device to a flexible membrane within the package (see section 5.3.1.4.4). Thus, the shape and dimensions of the acoustic port 610 may mirror or match the shape and dimensions of the acoustic port on the MEMS contact microphone.

[0193] Typically, the geometry, such as shape and / or dimensions, of the acoustic port 610 may depend on application requirements or may be implementation-specific. For instance, a smaller diameter / width acoustic port may provide an improved high-frequency response by minimizing wave diffraction, but it may also introduce more airflow resistance which can affect sensitivity. A larger diameter / width acoustic port can allow better airflow for higher sound pressure level (SPL) handling, but may be more prone to letting in dust or moisture if not well-protected. Additionally, the acoustic port depth, which may be referred to as the acoustic channel, from an exterior, such as exterior of the MEMS device package / enclosure or an exterior of housing 650, to a diaphragm or membrane is typically a few hundred micrometers (pm) to a couple millimeters, depending on the IC package design. A long or deep acoustic channel in front of the microphone can create resonances or standing waves, whereas a shallow acoustic channel, such as those at or under 1 mm, can cause high-frequency losses or strong near-field effects if not well aligned with the microphone’s diaphragm.

[0194] Typically, RR involves acoustic signals in the range of <1 Hertz (Hz) to about 20 Hz and PR typically involves acoustic signals in the range of about 20 Hz to 200 Hz. Therefore, the contact microphone assembly, such as vibroacoustic sensor 750 of Fig. 7, may have a low frequency response design that may prioritize the back volume and minimize front volume. Thus, in some forms, the acoustic port 610 may have a relatively large diameter or width, such as in the range of about 0.5mm (500 pm) to 2mm, to improve low-frequency response, reduce or avoid high acoustic resistance and / or high acoustic impedance. In some forms, the acoustic port depth from the surfaceof the sensor face 655 to the membrane may be between about 500 pm to about 3 mm. In one example, the acoustic port depth from the surface of the sensor face 655 to the membrane is between about 1 mm to about 2 mm. One example implementation may include an acoustic port 610 with a diameter / width of about 1mm and an acoustic depth of about 1mm. In some forms, a filter, mesh, or protective membrane can be used to cover the acoustic port 610 to reduce environmental noise and dust / moisture contamination.

[0195] In some forms of the present technology, the vibroacoustic sensor 750 of Fig. 7 may be implemented as a non -mi crophone based vibration sensor, such as a MEMS vibration sensor or a MEMS accelerometer. Such sensors typically do not require an external sound port. Thus, implementations of the assembly using such sensors can be completely sealed, eliminating the need for special protective layers, which may improve durability of the system.

[0196] Aperture 620, which may also be referred to as a window, lens, lens port, or the like, may be part of a reflectance pulse oximeter (or reflective SpCh sensor) implemented in the sensor module 350, such as reflectance sensor(s) 752 of Fig. 7. The reflectance pulse oximeter may include a red light LED to emit red light (a wavelength of about 660 nanometers (nm)) and an infrared (IR) light LED to emit IR light (a wavelength of about 880-940nm). Thus, the aperture 620 may be formed of a transparent or semi-transparent material such as glass, mineral glass, aluminosilicate glass, acrylic glass (plexiglass), sapphire crystal, PC, PMMA, elastomers, and / or the like to allow red and IR light from LEDs to be emitted through the aperture 620 and reflected back from the tissue to the sensor’s photodetector(s) or photodiode (PD).

[0197] In some forms, the sensor face 655 may be configured such that the aperture 620 does not come into direct contact with the patient’s skin, such as in implementations where the sensor face 655 is slightly curved. In such forms, the aperture 620 may be positioned on a portion of the sensor face 655 that is slightly curved away from the patient’s body. Such forms may mitigate against potential accuracy issues due to overly tight or too-loose contact pressure against the skin. In some forms, the aperture 620, or other parts of the sensor face 655 and / or housing 650, may include light-blocking structures or mechanical barriers around the PD to minimize direct LED-to-PD coupling or optical crosstalk. In some forms, the aperture 620, or other parts of the sensor face 655 and / or housing 650, may include mechanical enclosures and / or coatings to reduce stray and / or ambient light.

[0198] Additionally, Fig. 6 shows the ports 610 and 620 positioned in a central portion of the sensor face 655. In other forms, port 610 and / or port 620 may be located on different parts of the sensor face 655. For example, the position of the ports 610 and 620 may be based on the specific implementation of the PCB and / or individual components of the sensor module 350. In another example, the position of the ports 610 and 620 may be based on the desired orientation that thesensor module 350 is to be attached to the user’s 102 body. Furthermore, the distance between the ports 610, 620 can be greater or smaller than shown.

[0199] The housing 650 may also incorporate additional elements not shown by Fig. 6. For example, in one form, the housing 650 may incorporate a charging port and / or input / output port, such as a USB port or the like. In another example, the housing 650 may include one or more input devices that allow the user 102 to interact with the sensor module 350 and / or one or more output devices that can be used to indicate various operational states of the sensor module 350. Such input / output devices may be in the form of physical buttons, switches, dials, LEDs, a touchscreen, other microphones, audio speakers, haptic devices, and / or the like. Additionally or alternatively, such input / output devices may include software components accessible via a touchscreen of the sensor module 350 and / or software components accessible via a communication interface and a target system 110. The input / output device(s) may be physically connected to the external housing 650, or may be in wired or wireless communication with a communication interface that is in electrical connection to a controller / processor of the sensor module 350, such as processor(s) 702 shown by Fig. 7.

[0200] In another example, the housing 650 may incorporate padding or other element(s) for user comfort and / or to prevent the sensor module 350 from moving or slipping off the body when worn. For example, the padding may be disposed or attached to an outer perimeter 630 of the sensor face 655. Such padding may be formed from various materials such as natural and / or synthetic rubber, silicone, polyurethane, TPE, acetate, memory foam, and / or other foams, gels, gelatin, and / or the like.5.3.1.4. Contact Sensor Measurement Device Components

[0201] Fig. 7 shows an example sensing system 700 comprising circuitry enabling the performance of any one or more of the processes, or any one or more of the step(s) therein, according to the described examples of the present technology. The sensing system 700 may correspond to the contact sensor measurement device 10 lx discussed previously in relation to Fig.1, the sensor module 350 discussed previously in relation to Figs. 3 to 6, or any other computing systems / devices discussed previously with respect to Fig. 1, such as any of the data sensing devices of the sensing system 101. In the example of Fig. 7, the sensing system 700 may include any one or more of the following components: central controller 702, memory / storage 704, communication interface (Comm) 712, charging circuit 720, power management system 722, battery 724, vibroacoustic sensor 750, reflective sensor(s) 752, and motion sensor(s) 754.

[0202] The components of the sensing system 700 may be implemented as one or more chips, integrated circuits (ICs), PCBs, circuit boards, discrete electronic devices, or other modules, instruction sets, programmable logic or algorithms, hardware, software, firmware, or acombination thereof adapted in the sensing system 700, or as components otherwise incorporated within the same physical housing, chassis, or enclosure, such as housing 550, 650. In some forms, some or all of the components of the sensing system 700 may be implemented as part of a system on a chip (SoC), System-in-Package (SiP), a multi -chip package (MCP), and / or other type of chip or package in which some of the components are formed into a single IC or a single package. Furthermore, the sensing system 700 may additionally or alternatively include other components not shown by Fig. 7. For example, one or more input devices, output devices, clock circuitry, actuators, additional or alternative sensors, and / or other components may be embedded in or otherwise integrated with the sensing system 700. Furthermore, the various components of the sensing system 700 may be connected to one another using a suitable interconnect technology, such as those discussed previously in relation to interconnect 210 of Fig. 2 (see section 5.2.3). 5.3.1.4.1. Central Controller

[0203] In some forms of the present technology, the sensing system 700 includes a central controller 702 that coordinates operations of the sensing system 700. The central controller 702 may manage sensor data acquisition by interfacing with sensors 750, 752, and 754, processes raw sensor data using its processing capabilities and memory 704, controls or influences power states to optimize battery life, handles communication with external systems (e.g., sensing systems 101 and / or target system 110) via Comm 712, and executes logic for device management, communication, and / or data processing functions. Examples logic of the data processing functions can include signal conditioning, signal / data filtering, calibration and compensation, storage / record management, statistical processing, feature extraction, real-time analysis, communication processing, quality assessment and / or data validation, decision-making algorithms, sensor data fusion, and / or AI / ML models.

[0204] Examples of the signal conditioning can include signal amplification or attenuation, filtering, converting, range matching, isolation, excitation, linearization, surge protection, and / or any other processes / techniques to make sensor output suitable for processing after the conditioning. Examples of the signal / data filtering can include low-pass, high-pass, band-pass, Kalman filtering, threshold filtering, notch filtering, time-domain filtering, noise reduction, offset correction, baseline removal, artifact removal (e.g., motion artifacts in PPG / pulse oximeter signals, etc.), frequency filtering, and / or other filtering processes, functions, techniques. Such signal / data filtering techniques can be implemented through hardware (e.g., dedicated circuits) and / or through software.

[0205] Examples of the storage / record management can include data policy management, storage / retrieval functions, event-based data recording, data compression, encryption / decry ption, and / or the like. Examples of the statistical processing can include calculating moving averages,standard deviation computation, peak detection and counting, threshold detection, variance calculation, outlier detection and removal, and / or the like. Examples of the feature extraction can include frequency domain analysis, time domain analysis, pattern recognition, waveform characteristic extraction, signal energy calculation, and / or the like. Examples of the real-time analysis can include anomaly detection, trend detection, event triggering, and / or the like. Examples of the communication processing can include data packet formation (packaging), encryption / decry ption, error checking and correction, protocol handling, and / or the like.

[0206] In some forms, the central controller 702 operates on a real-time basis, and responds to various interrupts from sensors 750, 752, and 754, timers, and / or Comm 712. In some forms, the central controller 702 manages data storage and / or data streaming operations, and interfaces with power management system 722 to monitor the status of the battery 723 and control power distribution to various components of the sensing system 700.

[0207] In some forms, the central controller 702 is one or a plurality of processors suitable to control the sensing system 700. The processor(s) of the central controller 702 may include any type of general-purpose and / or special-purpose microprocessor(s) (MPU), microcontroller(s) (MCU), and / or other processing device that interprets and executes programming instructions and / or other types of executable code. Such processor(s) may include the same or similar circuitry, components, and / or technologies discussed previously in relation to processor(s) 202 of Fig. 2 (see section 5.2.1).

[0208] Suitable processor(s) of the central controller 702 may include x86 instruction set architecture (ISA) processor(s), such as any of those provided by Intel Corp, or Advanced Micro Devices, Inc. (AMD). Additional or alternative suitable processor(s) may include a reduced instruction set computer (RISC) ISA-based processor such as an ARM® Cortex®-M processor from ARM Holdings. Examples of such an ARM® Cortex®-M processor may include a 16-bit RISC CPU such as a processor from the MSP430 family of MCUs provided by Texas Instruments Inc., or a 32-bit RISC CPU such as an STM32 series MCU from STMicroelectronics or PSoC™ 4, PSoC™ 6, or FM™ family of MCUs from Infineon Technologies AG. Additional or alternative suitable processor(s) may include the 32-bit AURIX™ TriCore™ family of MCUs provided by Infineon Technologies AG.

[0209] In one form of the present technology, the central controller 702 is embodied as a dedicated electronic circuit, such as an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGA), digital signal processor (DSP), System on Chip (SoC), and / or other like device. In another form, the central controller 702 comprises discrete electronic components. In some forms, the processor(s) of the central controller 702 may be located on a PCB or the like.

[0210] The central controller 702 may be configured to receive input signal(s) from one or moretransducers such as any of the sensors 750, 752, and 754, one or more input devices, and / or one or more target system 110 via the Comm 712. The central controller 702 may be configured to provide output signal(s) to one or more of a target system 110 via the Comm 712, a sensing system 101 via the Comm 712, transducers 750, 752, 754, an output device, a therapy device such as RPT device lOld.

[0211] In some forms of the present technology, the central controller 702 is configured to implement the one or more methodologies described herein, such as one or more algorithms which may be implemented with processor-control instructions, expressed as computer programs stored in a non-transitory computer readable storage medium, such as memory 704. As shown by Fig. 7, the central controller 702 may be integrated with the sensing system 700. However, in other forms of the present technology, some methodologies may be performed by a remotely located device, such as wireless device 114 and / or remote server system 112. For example, the remotely located device may determine control settings for starting / stopping a sleep study using the sensing system 700. In another example, the remotely located device may determine events, such as sleep stage events, by analysis of stored data, such as data from any of the sensors 750, 752, 754, and / or any other sensor / transducer described herein.5.3.1.4.2. Memory and Storage

[0212] In some forms of the present technology, the sensing system 700 includes memory 704. The memory 704 may be of any type capable of storing information accessible by a processor, such as the central controller 702, or other computing devices / components of the sensing system 700. The memory 704 may include the same or similar circuitry, components, and / or technologies discussed previously in relation to memory 204 and / or storage 208 of Fig. 2 (see section 5.2.2).5.3.1.4.3. Communication Interface

[0213] In some forms of the present technology, the sensing system 700 includes Comm 712 to communicate sensor data to one or more external computing systems / devices, such as a target system 110 and / or external system(s) 280 via a wired and / or wireless connection with such external computing systems / devices. The Comm 712 may also establish a network connection with a target system 110 to receive commands for performing various operations, such as starting, stopping, or pausing sensing or monitoring activities, storing and / or accessing sensor data, configuring the sensing system 700, updating system software and / or firmware, among other operations.

[0214] The Comm 712 may include the same or similar circuitry, components, and / or technologies discussed previously in relation to communication interface 212 of Fig. 2 (see section 5.2.5). For example, in some forms, the Comm 712 may be embodied as a Bluetooth or BLE chip or module and / or a Wi-Fi transceiver. In some forms, the Comm 712 can include wired network interfacecircuitry to transfer data over a suitable wired connection.5.3.1.4.4. Vibroacoustic Transducer

[0215] In accordance with some forms of the present technology, the sensing system 700 includes a vibroacoustic sensor 750. The vibroacoustic sensor 750 may be configured to detect, sense, respond to, or otherwise interact with physical stimuli, such as external vibrations. The vibroacoustic sensor 750 may be used to measure and detect RF, RR, and / or PR of a patient, such as user 102. When the sensing system 700 is used as an HSAT system, the inclusion of the vibroacoustic sensor 750 may replace conventional HSAT peripheral components such as a nasal cannula. The use of vibroacoustic sensor 750 may also avoid picking up signals from bed partner, which may be a drawback of using conventional HSAT systems. Thus, the inclusion of vibroacoustic sensor 750 provides a simplified design for HSAT systems and potentially other diagnostic devices.

[0216] In some forms, the vibroacoustic sensor 750 is a miniaturized system that integrates mechanical structures and electronic components, such as aMEMS or NEMS device. For example, the vibroacoustic sensor 750 may include a sensing element connected to electrodes, and processing circuit connected to the electrodes via an interconnect. The sensing element may comprise one or more mechanical structures that deforms, vibrates, moves, or displaces in response to an external stimulus. The mechanical structures may include, for example, cantilevers, beams, diaphragms, membranes, proof mass, suspension system such as springs, among many others. The mechanical structures may be formed from piezoelectric materials and / or other materials. The mechanical deformation, vibration, motion, or displacement of the sensing element changes an electrical property of the system, such as capacitance, resistance, piezoelectric effect, and / or the like, which causes an electric signal to be sent to the processing circuit.

[0217] The processing circuit may receive the electrical signals and may generate an output signal based on the electrical signals. For example, the processing circuit may perform amplification, filtering, conversion, or other operations on the electrical signals to produce the output. In some forms, the processing circuit may include signal processing circuit elements, such as analog-to-digital converts (ADCs), amplifiers, filters, and / or other circuit components. In some forms, the processing circuit may be embodied as an ASIC, FPGA, DSP, MCU, MPU, and / or other processing device. In some forms, these components are formed on a single substrate, such as a silicon substrate, which acts as a base layer that provides mechanical support for the structures or components. Additionally, the components of the vibroacoustic sensor 750 may be encapsulated with a protective package to shield the components from environmental factors such as dust, moisture, vibratory interference, and mechanical damage.

[0218] In one form, the vibroacoustic sensor 750 may be a MEMS microphone, such as a contactmicrophone or bone-conductive microphone. The MEMS microphone may be configured to convert vibrations caused by sound waves and / or audio pressure into electrical signals. In these forms, the mechanical structures may include a flexible membrane (or diaphragm) and at least one backplate that is fixed in relation to the membrane. The electrically charged backplate and the membrane form a capacitive sound transducer. The MEMS microphone may also include an acoustic channel and acoustic port, such as acoustic port 610, to allow sound waves to reach the membrane. The flexible membrane moves proportional to the amplitude and frequency of incoming sound waves, thereby changing the capacitance of the capacitive sound transducer. A resulting change in voltage is measured, processed, and output by the processing circuit.

[0219] In another form, the vibroacoustic sensor 750 may be a MEMS vibration sensor configured to convert external vibrations into electrical signals. In this form, the mechanical structures may include a resonator that vibrates in response to the external vibrations at specific frequencies, a damping layer that controls the vibration amplitude, and a tuning mass that adjusts the resonance frequency and / or the sensitivity of the resonator. When the external vibrations have a frequency matching or close to the resonator's natural resonance frequency, the resonator oscillates with significantly increased amplitude. The resonator oscillations alter a capacitance or resistance of the system, which are detected as electrical signals and processed by the processing circuit.

[0220] In another form, the mechanical structures of the MEMS vibration sensor include a piezoelectric element that generates an electrical charge when mechanically deformed. The external vibrations cause the piezoelectric element to bend, stretch, or compress, producing a voltage proportional to the vibration's amplitude and frequency. The mechanical stress caused by the vibration causes an electrical charge in the piezoelectric material to be generated due to the piezoelectric effect. The processing circuit captures and / or measures this charge as a measurable voltage or current and produces an output signal accordingly.

[0221] In another form, the vibroacoustic sensor 750 may be a MEMS accelerometer configured to measure or sense acceleration or inertial forces. In this form, the mechanical structures may include a proof mass, such as an inertial mass, suspended by suspension elements, such as beams, springs, or membrane(s). Inertial forces, which may be caused by vibrations and / or sound waves, may cause the proof mass to shift, causing displacement relative to a fixed frame. The displacement of the proof mass is proportional to the magnitude and direction of the acceleration, which is detected by the processing circuit. For example, if the mechanical structures are configured as a capacitor system with fixed electrodes, the distance or overlap between the electrodes changes as the proof mass moves, altering the capacitance proportional to the displacement. In another example, if piezoelectric and / or piezoresi stive materials are integrated into the suspension elements, strain caused by the motion of the proof mass may cause resistance or electrical chargefrom the piezoelectric effect may be measured by the processing circuit. In some forms, acceleration along multiple axes (e.g., X, Y, and Z) may be measured by, for example, arranging multiple proof masses in respective axes or using a single proof mass that can move in multiple directions, with corresponding sensing mechanisms for each axis.

[0222] In some cases, the sound quality of systems that use MEMS vibration sensors and / or MEMS accelerometers may be lower than the sound quality of systems using MEMS microphones. Thus, implementations of the vibroacoustic sensor 750 including a MEMS vibration sensor and / or MEMS accelerometer may rely on enhanced hardware and / or software systems to operate AI / ML sound processing technologies (e.g., AI / ML model s / algorithms running on the integrated processing circuit or the central controller 702) to reconstruct or convert the detected vibration signals into audio signals. In other forms, the enhanced hardware systems may operate AI / ML signal processing technologies (e.g., AI / ML models / algorithms running on the integrated processing circuit or the central controller 702) to learn and predict the relevant physiological parameters based on the detected vibrations.

[0223] In some forms, the MEMS microphone, MEMS vibration sensor, and / or MEMS accelerometer may be integrated or formed into a combined MEMS device. In these forms, the processing circuit may receive electrical signals from respective MEMS device of the combined MEMS device over respective sensing channels. Additionally, in some forms, at least some of the mechanical elements may be shared or used by two or more MEMS devices of the combined MEMS device.

[0224] Suitable MEMS devices of the vibroacoustic sensor 750 may include the XENSIV™ family of MEMS microphones provided by Infineon Technologies AG, Surface Mount MEMS Microphones provided by SiSonic, LSM6DSV16BX system-in-package inertial measurement unit (IMU) provided by STMicroelectronics, the BMA580 or BMA550 acceleration sensors provided by Bosch, among many others.5.3.1.4.5. Reflective Sensor

[0225] In accordance with some forms of the present technology, the sensing system 700 includes a reflective sensor 752, such as a reflectance pulse oximeter or reflective SpCh sensor, configured to measure arterial oxygen saturation (SpCh) and / or PR of a patient, such as user 102. When the sensing system 700 is used as an HSAT system, the inclusion of the reflective sensor 752 may replace conventional HSAT peripheral components, such as conventional wired oximeters and related oximeter belt clips. Thus, the inclusion of reflective sensor 752 provides a simplified design for HSAT systems and potentially other diagnostic devices.

[0226] In some forms, the reflective sensor 752 includes optical components connected to an analog front-end (AFE), and a processing circuit / device (e.g., MCU, MPU, DSP, etc.) connectedto the AFE via a suitable interconnect. The processing device manages the operation of the reflective sensor 752, processes digital signals, and communicates with the AFE.

[0227] The optical components typically include a set of LEDs (e.g., two LEDs) and a photodiode (PD). The set of LEDs may include a first LED in the red light wavelength range (around 660 nm) and a second LED in the IR range (around 880-940 nm). In one form, the PD is disposed adjacent to the LEDs to capture the light that emerges back out of the tissue. The two LEDs may be pulsed in sequence or simultaneously, depending on the implementation. Light from the LEDs passes into the tissue and is backscattered (reflected) back to the PD from scattering events inside the dermal layers. The PD converts the photons of the reflected light into an electrical current.

[0228] The AFE typically includes LED drivers that control the current supplied to the two LEDs, and may modulate the intensity of the LEDs. Additionally, the AFE may include a PD amplifier that amplifies the current generated by the PD in response to reflected light from the tissue. In some forms, the current output by the PD may be fed into a transimpedance amplifier to convert the current into a voltage signal. In some forms, additional filtering stages, such as low-pass or band-pass filtering, may be employed to remove high-frequency noise and / or ambient light interference. The AFE may include one or more ADCs to convert the amplified analog signal into a digital signal.

[0229] The processing device may include logic, which may be embodied as embedded software and / or firmware code, configured to process the digital signal to calculate oxygen saturation (SpCh) and PR. For example, the PD signal for each LED wavelength can be divided into two components including a pulsatile or AC component and a non-pulsatile or DC component of the light signal absorbed by the blood.

[0230] The pulsatile or AC component represents the absorption of light by the pulsating arterial blood, which changes as the blood volume in the arteries changes with each heartbeat. For example, arterial blood volume increases during systole, resulting in greater light absorption, and thus, a reduced PD signal. During diastole, arterial blood volume decreases, which reduces the amount of light absorption, and thus, results in an increased PD signal.

[0231] The non-pulsatile or DC component represents the absorption of light by the non-pulsatile components such as tissues, veins, capillaries, and non-pulsatile arterial blood. Thus, the DC component is relatively constant in comparison to the AC component.

[0232] The logic implemented by the processing device processes the PD signals to determine the AC and DC components, and subsequently calculates the ratio for SpCh. The ratio of AC / DC for the red and IR wavelengths is used to calculate the SpCh, which is the percentage of hemoglobin in the blood that is saturated with oxygen. For instance, oxygenated hemoglobin, or oxyhemoglobin (HbCE), absorbs more infrared light and reflects more red light, whiledeoxygenated hemoglobin, or deoxyhemoglobin (Hb), absorbs more red light and reflects more IR light. Therefore, the ratio of backscattered red light to IR light can be used to determine oxygen saturation. See e.g., Nitzan et al., Pulse oximetry: fundamentals and technology update, MED DEVICES (AUCKL), vol. 2014:7, pp. 231-239 (08 Jul. 2014).

[0233] Additionally, the logic implemented by the processing device may determine heart rate or PR from the pulsatile or AC component. For instance, a photoplethysmogram (PPG) waveform may be created based on the changes in light absorption during systole and diastole.

[0234] In some forms, the sensor face 655 may be configured such that the aperture 620 does not come into direct contact with the patient’s skin, such as in implementations where the sensor face 655 is slightly curved. In such forms, the aperture 620 may be positioned on a portion of the sensor face 655 that is slightly curved away from the patient’s body.5.3.1.4.6. Motion Sensor

[0235] In accordance with some forms of the present technology, the sensing system 700 includes a motion sensor 754. The motion sensor 754 may be configured to measure directional movements, such as linear acceleration in one or more axes (e.g., X, Y, Z). The motion sensor 754 may be used to measure and breathing effort and / or chest movements of a patient, such as user 102. When the sensing system 700 is used as an HSAT system, the inclusion of the motion sensor 754 may replace conventional HSAT peripheral components such as a conventional effort sensor and related chest strap / belt. Thus, the inclusion of motion sensor 754 provides a simplified design for HSAT systems and potentially other diagnostic devices.

[0236] In some forms, the motion sensor 754 may be implemented as an inertial measurement unit (IMU) that includes an accelerometer, such as a 3 -axis accelerometer, that detects acceleration due to motion and gravity, and optionally a gyroscope, such as a 3 -axis gyroscope, that measures angular velocity (rotation). Additionally, the IMU may optionally include a magnetometer, such as a 3-axis magnetometer, that measures orientation relative to Earth's magnetic field.

[0237] In some forms, the IMU is a MEMS IMU that may include a MEMS accelerometer, MEMS gyroscope, and / or a MEMS magnetometer. Similar to the vibroacoustic sensor 750 (see section 5.3.1.4.4), such devices may include a sensing element, electrodes, and processing circuit connected to one another via an interconnect. The sensing element may include including one or more mechanical structures and / or other structural elements.

[0238] In some forms, the MEMS accelerometer may have similar components and functionality as the MEMS accelerometer described previously in relation to the vibroacoustic sensor 750 (see section 5.3.1.4.4). In some forms, the motion sensor 754 is a MEMS accelerometer that is separate from the vibroacoustic sensor 750. In other forms, the motion sensor 754 is a MEMS accelerometer that is combined with or incorporated into the vibroacoustic sensor 750 as a combined MEMSdevice.

[0239] In some forms, the MEMS gyroscope may include mechanical structures, such as a resonator configured to vibrate at a specific resonance frequency and one or more sensing elements, such as capacitive, piezoelectric, or piezoresistive materials integrated into structural elements such as oscillating plates, capacitors, electrodes, and / or the like. A driving circuit is configured to drive and maintain the resonator at its resonant frequency, and the processing circuit may measure the displacement or changes in the vibration pattern caused by angular velocity based on, for example, capacitive, piezoelectric, or piezoresistive sensing. Other elements, such as amplifiers, filters, and / or ADCs may be used to process the raw signal before it is provided to the processing circuit.

[0240] In some forms, the sensing element of the MEMS magnetometer may be a structure sensitive to magnetic fields, such as a Hall-effect sensor or a magnetoresistive sensor. For example, when the MEMS magnetometer includes a Hall-effect sensor, a magnetic field perpendicular to the current flow induces a Hall voltage across the sensing element. In another example, when the MEMS magnetometer includes a magnetoresistive sensor, a magnetic field alters the resistance of the material of the sensing element. Electrodes connected to the sensing element may conduct current or voltage (e.g., Hall voltage or resistance changes) that is proportional to the magnetic field strength and orientation. The processing circuit may determine the magnitude and direction of the magnetic field, and / or may provide actionable data regarding the positioning, speed, rotation, and / or direction of movement. Other elements, such as amplifiers, filters, and / or ADCs may be used to process the raw signal before it is provided to the processing circuit.

[0241] In some forms, the motion sensor 754 includes a MEMS accelerometer that is combined with or incorporated into the vibroacoustic sensor 750 as a combined MEMS device.

[0242] In some forms, the motion sensor 754 is an IMU, such as a MEMS or NEMS IMU, which includes a MEMS accelerometer, MEMS gyroscope, and / or MEMS magnetometer. In some forms, the IMU, such as a MEMS or NEMS IMU, is implemented as a separate device from the vibroacoustic sensor 750. In other forms, the IMU, such as a MEMS or NEMS IMU, is implemented as a combined MEMS device that is incorporated with the MEMS vibroacoustic sensor 750.

[0243] In other forms, the motion sensor 754 includes a MEMS accelerometer, MEMS gyroscope, and / or MEMS magnetometer that are each implemented as separate components or devices. In some forms, a MEMS accelerometer is combined with or incorporated into the vibroacoustic sensor 750 as a combined MEMS device, and the motion sensor 754 includes a MEMS gyroscope and / or MEMS magnetometer that may or may not be implemented a separate devices / components.

[0244] In some forms, a sensor fusion algorithm may be operated by the processing circuit tocombine data from the accelerometer, gyroscope, and / or magnetometer of the motion sensor 754 to provide combined motion and orientation data. In other forms, a sensor fusion algorithm may be operated by the central controller 702 to combine data from the vibroacoustic sensor 750, the reflective sensor 752, and / or the motion sensor 754.5.3.1.4.7. Charging Circuit

[0245] In some forms of the present technology, the sensing system 700 includes charging circuitry 720 configured to connect to a power supply to charge the battery 724. The charging circuitry 720 may include charging components, such as AC and / or DC inputs, AC / DC and / or DC / AC converter(s), power regulators, transformers, wired power supply connectors such as plugs and / or sockets, and / or wireless (inductive) charging circuitry. The specific charging circuits 720, or specific charging components, may be selected based on the size of the battery 724 or battery cell / pack configuration, and thus, the current required. The power management system 722 may monitor and manage the charging of the battery 724 when the charging circuitry 720 is connected to a power supply.

[0246] In some forms, the wireless power charging circuitry may include a wireless power receiver to obtain power wirelessly, for example, through a coil or loop antenna. The wireless power receiver receives energy from an electromagnetic field produced by a wireless power transmitter, such as a charging pad, and converts it into an electrical current to charge the battery 724. The charging may be performed according to Airfuel Alliance standards, the Qi wireless charging standard, the Rezence charging standard, among others.5.3.1.4.8. Power Management System

[0247] In some forms of the present technology, a power management system 722 may be included to manage the power-related aspects of the sensing system 700. In some forms, the power management system 722 may include a power management IC (PMIC) that handles various power-related functions for the components of the sensing system 700, such as voltage regulation, power sequencing, power state or power mode management (e.g., sleep, standby, active, etc.), and current, voltage, and thermal regulation / protection mechanisms. The voltage regulation may involve converting input voltages to output voltages needed by different components by implementing, for example, buck-boost converters, LDOs, and the like.

[0248] In some forms, the power management system 722 may include a battery management system (BMS) to manage the battery, such as by protecting the battery from operating outside safe operating ranges, monitoring the battery / cell state (e.g., voltage, temperature, coolant flow, current, health of individual cells, state of balance of cells, etc.), calculating or determining battery parameters and / or metrics from the battery state, reporting the battery parameters to other components and / or functions, controlling the battery’s environment, authenticating the battery,balancing battery / cell loads, thermal management, overcharging and over-discharging protection, and / or other management functions. Example battery parameters can include cell voltage levels, state of charge (SoCh or SoC) or depth of discharge (DoD), state of health (SoH), state of function (SoF), state of power (SoP), state of safety (SoS), a charge current limit (CCL), discharge current limit (DCL), energy [kWh] delivered since last charge or charge cycle, internal impedance of a cell, charge [Ah] delivered or stored which is sometimes referred to as a Coulomb counter, total energy delivered since first use, total operating time since first use, total number of cycles, temperature monitoring measurements / metrics, coolant flow for air or liquid cooled batteries, and / or the like. The battery parameters may be used to determine battery-related metrics or measurements and / or determine actions that may be performed such as , for example, charging time, charging current / voltage draw, battery failure predictions, sensing frequencies, envelope tracking, and / or the like.

[0249] In some forms, the PMIC and BMS may be implemented as separate circuits or components. In other forms, the power management system 722 may be implemented as an integrated PMIC with BMS, such as the BQ25120A Highly Integrated Battery Charge Management Solution provided by Texas Instruments Inc., the MP2639A switch-mode batterycharging management device provided by Monolithic Power Systems, Inc., and / or the like.5.3.1.4.9. Battery

[0250] In some forms of the present technology, a battery 724 is included as a power supply that provides electrical power to the components of the sensing system 700. As examples, the battery 724 may be embodied as a lithium ion battery, lithium-polymer cell battery, or a metal-air battery, such as a zinc-air battery, an aluminum-air battery, a lithium-air battery, and / or the like. Additionally, the battery 724 may be embodied as one or more battery cells or one or more battery packs connected together in various configurations or arrangements, such as 1S2P, 2S1P, 2S2P, 3S3P, and the like.5.3.1.5. Software Application

[0251] A contact sensor measurement system, such as the sensing system 700, in accordance with one form of the present technology may include hardware elements (e.g., central controller 702, memory 704, and / or the like) to execute, run, or otherwise operate a software application that collects sensor data from one or more on-board sensors (e.g., the vibroacoustic sensor 750, the reflective sensor 752, and / or the motion sensor 754), stores the sensor data for later conveyance to a target system 110, and / or streams the sensor data to a target system 110. In some forms, the software application performs various processing tasks on the raw sensor data, such as various filtering operations, sensor fusion operations, and / or the like. In some forms, the software application can include one or more AI / ML models to generate predictions or inferences based onthe sensor data.

[0252] In one example, circuitry of the sensing system 700 (e.g., central controller 702) operates the software application to process the sensor data / signals produced by the various sensors of the sensing system 700. For example, the sensing system 700 may derive or identify RR and / or PR from vibroacoustic sensor data provided by the vibroacoustic sensor 750. In another example, the sensing system 700 may derive or identify SpCh and / or PR from reflective sensor data provided by the reflective sensor 752. In yet another example, the sensing system 700 may derive or identify breathing effort and / or chest movements from motion sensor data provided by the motion sensor 754. The data, such as RF, RR, PR, SpCh, breath sounds, breathing effort, and / or chest movements, may be derived by filtering, such as by hardware and / or software filters. This data may be stored in the memory 704 of the sensing system 700 and / or may be streamed directly to a target system 110. Here, the software application may control a local Comm 712 to stream or otherwise transfer the processed data to the target system 110 for further processing and / or analysis.

[0253] Additionally or alternatively to processing the raw data on the sensing system 700 itself, the software application may control the Comm 712 to stream raw sensor data / signals to the target system 110 for processing and / or analysis in a similar manner as previously described. Additionally or alternatively, the software application may control the Comm 712 to stream raw sensor data / signals and / or processed sensor data / signals to a target system 110 for controlling a therapy-providing device, such as RPT device lOld. The sensor data / signals may be used to adjust operational parameters of such therapy-providing device, and thus, the sensor data / signals may be used to adjust the therapy provided to the patient.

[0254] In either implementation, a corresponding software application on the target system 110 receives the raw or processed data stream in real time via wired or wireless connection during a sleep session, or receives the data, for example, as a single data file or in data chunks or blocks, after the sleep session is completed. The corresponding software application on the target system 110 can also receive other raw or processed sensor data from other sensors / devices, such as any of the data gathering devices 101. The corresponding software application can correlate or otherwise process this other raw or processed sensor data, such as by using various filtering techniques and / or using AI / ML learning algorithms or models, for determining sleep related events such as sleep staging, for diagnosing sleep disorder events such as discussed herein, and / or for other healthcare or performance monitoring applications.

[0255] Sleep staging may be based on sleep staging (or sleep state) events derived from the sensor data. Sleep staging events may refer to events related to one or more sleep stages (e.g., REM, non-REM such as stages Nl, N2, and / or N3, etc.) and / or features within or derived from biosignals and / or physiological signals / parameters that are indicative of one or more sleep stages. These caninclude, but are not limited to, EEG features such positive occipital sharp transients of sleep (POSTS) and vertex waves, sleep spindles and K complexes, delta waves, diffuse attenuation of signal amplitudes, and EMG and / or EOG features such as muscle tone and eye movements.

[0256] As an example, the statistical analysis methodologies and / or the AI / ML models discussed in '455 may be adapted to predict sleep related events, such as sleep staging and / or diagnosing sleep disorder events based on the sensor data obtained from the multi-channel contact sensor measurement device, such as device 10 lx and / or sensing system 700. Here, a suitable ML classifier can be used to classify different segments of identified sensor data from sensing system 700 as belonging to different sleep stages.

[0257] In implementations where multiple data gathering devices 101 are used, such as the sensing system 700 and / or any of the data gathering devices 101, the data from each of devices 101 can be algorithmically synchronized with one another. In one example, the synchronization may be accomplished by matching the instantaneous heart rate traces derived from an ECGZEKG trace of the ECGZEKG device 101c with the sensor data / signals of the sensing system 700. In another example, the synchronization may be accomplished by matching the instantaneous heart rate traces derived from an ECGZEKG trace of the biopotential measurement device lOle with the sensor data / signals of the sensing system 700. Additionally or alternatively, the data collected and / or measured by each sensor 101 may be timestamped and correlated with one another during the processing stage. Additionally or alternatively, data epochs with high lead impedance and data epochs with disconnections or weak communication signals can be discarded or rejected from the analysis.5.3.2. Exampl e Methods

[0258] As has been shown in the previous examples, sleep related events can be detected using a multi-channel contact sensor measurement device, such as the contact sensor measurement device lOlx and / or sensing system 700. In this regard, such methodologies of the present technology as previously described may be further considered in relation to the methods depicted by Fig. 8.

[0259] In Fig. 8, the process 800 may begin at operation 810, where one or more processors may obtain a sensor data from multiple sensors employed by a multi-channel contact sensor measurement device, such as when attached to a torso or neck of a patient as previously discussed. The sensor data may be measured and / or collected by a contact sensor measurement device 10 lx and / or sensing system 700, for example. At operation 820, the one or more processors may process the obtained sensor data. For example, the one or more processors may derive, based on the sensor data, data suggestive of sleep staging events. The data suggestive of sleep staging events may include any or all of RF, RR, PR, SpCh, breath sounds, breathing effort, and / or chest movement signals.

[0260] Optionally, at operation 830, the one or more processors may store the processed data in memory, such as memory 704 or a remote storage system. Optionally, at operation 840, the one or more processors may stream or transfer the processed data to a target system 110, such as a remote server system 112 and / or a wireless device 114.

[0261] In some forms, the processed data produced at operation 830 and / or 840 may include text or graphical outputs to be displayed by a display device. The text or graphical outputs may be suggestive of the sensor data collected / measured by the contact sensor measurement device 10 lx and / or sensing system 700. Additionally or alternatively, such processed data may include, for example, a signal, such as control signal, with a setting or for setting (e.g., a pressure or flow rate setting) of an operation of a respiratory therapy. Such a signal may optionally be communicated to a respiratory therapy device from the one or more processors, such via a communications network (e.g., an internet) and / or other intermediary device(s) (e.g., one or more servers 112 and / or wireless device(s) 114).

[0262] At operation 850, the one or more processors may determine whether reading of the sensor data is to end. If not, the one or more processors proceed back to operation 810 to continue reading data signals from the multiple sensors employed by the multi-channel contact sensor measurement device. Otherwise, process 800 may end.5.4. GLOSSARY

[0263] For the purposes of the present disclosure, in certain forms of the present technology, one or more of the following definitions may apply. In other forms of the present technology, alternative definitions may apply.5.4.1. General

[0264] Apnea. Individuals with sleep apnea typically experience airway collapse in deeper sleep states, causing them to experience reduced time in stage N3 and REM sleep, leading to excessive daytime drowsiness. There are two types of sleep apnea: central and obstructive. Central sleep apnea occurs when the brain fails to signal respiratory muscles during sleep. Obstructive sleep apnea is a mechanical problem in which there is a partial or complete blockage of the upper airway. According to some definitions, an apnea is said to have occurred when respiratory flow rate (or RR) falls below a predetermined threshold for a duration, for example, 10 seconds. An obstructive apnea will be said to have occurred when, despite patient effort, some obstruction of the airway does not allow air to flow. A central apnea will be said to have occurred when an apnea is detected that is due to a reduction in breathing effort, or the absence of breathing effort.

[0265] Biosignal-. any signal in living beings that can be measured and monitored, and can include bioelectrical signals and / or non-electrical signals. Additionally or alternatively, a biosignal may refer to any electrical, mechanical, or chemical variations produced by living organisms that canbe measured and analyzed. Examples of biosignals include electroencephalogram (EEG), electrocardiogram (ECG), electromyogram (EMG), electrooculogram (EOG), electroretinogram (ERG), electrogastrogram (EGG), galvanic skin response (GSR) and / or electrodermal activity (EDA), photoplethysmography (PPG) related signals, peripheral arterial tone, biopotential, mechanomyogram (MMG), acoustic signals (e.g., phonetic and non-phonetic utterances, breathing sounds, etc.), RF, RR, RE, oxygen saturation (SpO2), pH, PR, heart rate, and / or the like. For purposes of the present disclosure, the term “biosignal” may be used interchangeably with the terns “physiological measure”, “physiological parameter”, and “physiological signal” unless stated otherwise.

[0266] Biopotential', electrical signals (voltages) that are generated by physiological processes occurring within the body. A biopotential can also be considered as the difference of potentials between two points of tissue, which reflects its bioelectric activity. Sources of biopotential signals include action potentials generated by excitable cells, corneal -retinal (comeoretinal) potential, skin potential, electromechanical behavior of bone, electrodermal activity (EDA), cardiac impedance (stroke volume), thoracic impedance (respiration), optical blood volume density (PPG or BVP), SpO2, and / or the like

[0267] Bone conduction hearing: the conduction of sound to the inner ear typically through the bones of the skull. Bone conduction involves the transmission of sound vibrations through the bones of the skull directly to the inner ear, bypassing the outer and middle ear. Bone conduction allows the hearer to perceive audio content even if the ear canal is blocked.

[0268] Patient'. A person, whether or not they undergo a sleep study or whether or not they have a sleep disorder.

[0269] Sleep Stages'. Sleep occurs in five stages, including wake / alert, Nl, N2, N3, and rapid eye movement (REM). Stages Nl to N3 are considered non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep, with each stage leading to progressively deeper sleep. Sleep staging events may refer to events related to one or more sleep stages and / or features within or derived from biosignals and / or biopotential signals that are indicative of one or more sleep stages.

[0270] Wake / alert stage', a sleep stage where EEG signals include beta waves, which have the highest frequency and lowest amplitude among the five sleep stages. Alpha waves can be seen during quiet / relaxed wakefulness.

[0271] Nl (stage 1) '. a sleep stage representing light sleep, where EEG signals include theta waves and a low voltage. Nl is the lightest stage of sleep and begins when more than 50% of the alpha waves are replaced with low-amplitude mixed-frequency (LAMF) activity. Muscle tone is present in the skeletal muscle, and breathing occurs regularly. This stage lasts around 1 to 5 minutes, comprising about 5% of total sleep time.

[0272] N2 (stage 2)'. a sleep stage representing deeper sleep than Nl, where EEG signals include sleep spindles and K complexes. N2 stage represents deeper sleep as the heart rate and body temperature drop. The presence of sleep spindles, K-complexes, or both characterizes it. Sleep spindles are brief, powerful bursts of neuronal firing in the superior temporal gyri, anterior cingulate, insular cortices, and thalamus, inducing calcium influx into cortical pyramidal cells. This mechanism is believed to be integral to synaptic plasticity. Numerous studies suggest that sleep spindles are essential in memory consolidation, specifically procedural and declarative memory. K-complexes are long delta waves that last approximately one second and are known to be the longest and most distinct of all brain waves. K-complexes are shown to function in maintaining sleep and memory consolidation. Stage 2 sleep lasts around 25 minutes in the first cycle and lengthens with each successive cycle, eventually comprising about 45% of total sleep. This stage of sleep is when bruxism (teeth grinding) occurs.

[0273] TVS (stage 3): a sleep stage representing the deepest non-REM sleep, where EEG signals include delta waves, which have the lowest frequency and highest amplitude among the five sleep stages. N3 is also known as slow-wave sleep (SWS). This is considered the deepest stage of sleep and is characterized by signals with lower frequencies and higher amplitudes, known as delta waves. This stage is the most difficult to awaken from; for some people, loud noises (> 100 decibels) will not lead to an awake state. As people age, they spend less time in this slow, deltawave sleep and more time in stage N2 sleep. Although this stage has the greatest arousal threshold, if someone is awoken during this stage, they will have a transient phase of mental fogginess, known as sleep inertia. Cognitive testing shows that individuals awakened during this stage tend to have moderately impaired mental performance for 30 minutes to 1 hour. This is the stage when the body repairs and regrows tissues, builds bone and muscle, and strengthens the immune system. This is also the stage when sleepwalking, night terrors, and bedwetting occur.

[0274] REM Sleep Disorder', a sleep disorder taking place during the REM stage where the temporary atonia of REM sleep is disturbed. Atonia refers to temporary muscle paralysis during REM sleep.

[0275] Carotid or carotid artery, either of the two main arteries that supply blood to the head of which the left in humans arises from the arch of the aorta and the right by bifurcation of the brachiocephalic artery with each passing along the corresponding anterolateral aspect of the neck and dividing opposite the upper border of the thyroid cartilage into an external branch supplying the face, tongue, and external parts of the head and an internal branch supplying the brain, eye, and other internal parts of the head.

[0276] Caudal', a medical term that refers to the posterior end of the body, or directed toward or situated in or near the tail or posterior part of the body. The term “caudal” is an anatomicaldirectional term used to describe a location of a structure in relation to the tail.

[0277] Cephalic, a medical term that refers to the head or head end of the body, or directed toward or situated on or in or near the head. The term “cephalic” is an anatomical directional term used to describe a location of a structure in relation to the head.

[0278] Clavicle-, a bone of the shoulder girdle that links the scapula and sternum, is situated just above the first rib on either side of the neck, and has the form of a narrow elongated ‘S’.

[0279] Anterior jugular or anterior jugular vein', a vein that commences near the hyoid bone and joins the terminal part of the external jugular vein or the subclavian vein.

[0280] External jugular or external jugular vein', a smaller and more superficial vein that collects most of the blood from the exterior of the cranium and deep parts of the face and opens into the subclavian vein.

[0281] Internal jugular or internal jugular vein', a vein that collects the blood from the interior of the cranium, the superficial part of the face, and the neck, runs down the neck on the outside of the internal and common carotid arteries, and unites with the subclavian vein to form the brachiocephalic vein.

[0282] Lateral', lying at or extending toward the right or left side. The term “lateral” is an anatomical directional term used to describe the leftward or rightward location of a structure in relation to the median axis of the body.

[0283] Physiological measure ', a quantitative assessment capturing a specific biological function, such as oxygen saturation and / or the like.

[0284] Physiological parameters', quantifiable characteristics of an organism’s biological processes, which may be used to evaluate health and performance.

[0285] Physiological signals', measurable indicators that reflect the state and functionality of biological systems, such as heart rate, respiration, and / or the like.

[0286] Respiratory effort or RE. a measure of the work of breathing or force required to breathe. Respiratory effort is typically assessed through chest / abdomen movement or using pressure measurements.

[0287] Respiratory flow or RF'. a measure of the movement of air in and out of the lungs. Respiratory flow can include information about the volume of gas entering / exiting the lungs and / or the speed of breathing.

[0288] Respiratory rate or RR-. a measure of the number of breaths taken during a given unit of time.

[0289] Sternum or breastbone', a compound ventral bone or cartilage that lies in the median central part of the body of most vertebrates above fishes and that in humans is about seven inches (18 centimeters) long. The sternum in most adult humans includes three parts, and connects with theclavicles and the cartilages of the upper seven pairs of ribs.

[0290] Subclavian artery, the proximal part of the main artery of the arm that arises on the right side from the brachiocephalic artery and on the left side from the arch of the aorta, that extends from its point of origin to the outer border of the first rib where it becomes the axillary artery and passes through the axilla and into the arm to become the brachial artery, and that supplies or gives off branches supplying the brain, neck, anterior wall of the thorax, and shoulder.

[0291] Subclavian vein', the proximal part of the main vein of the arm that is a continuation of the axillary vein and extends from the level of the first rib to the sternal end of the clavicle where it unites with the internal jugular vein to form the brachiocephalic vein.

[0292] Signal', a physical quantity or phenomenon that carries, conveys, or represents, typically varying with time or space. The term “signal” may refer to both the process and the result of transmission of data over some media accomplished by embedding some variation. Additionally or alternatively, a “signal” may refer to any time varying voltage, current, or electromagnetic wave that may or may not carry information. Examples of signals include audio (sound waves), video, image, optical (light waves), biological, communication, electrical, geophysical, speech, sonar, radar, radio frequency, medical, and musical signals, among many others.

[0293] Analog signal o analogue signal', any continuous-time signal representing some other quantity, i.e., analogous to another quantity. For example, an analog audio signal may be the instantaneous signal voltage that varies continuously with the pressure of sound waves.

[0294] Digital signal', a signal that represents data as a sequence of discrete values. A digital signal may be constructed from a discrete set of waveforms of a physical quantity so as to represent a sequence of discrete values. Additionally or alternatively, a digital signal may represent an original time-varying quantity as a sampled sequence of quantized values.

[0295] Waveform', a visual representation of how a physical quantity, such as a signal, varies with time. Additionally or alternatively, a waveform is a graph that shows the shape and characteristics of a wave or signal over time.

[0296] Fastener or fastening mechanism', a device or mechanism used to mechanically join, affix, or couple, two or more objects together. Some types of fasteners are capable of allowing subsequent disassembly or detachment of the two or more objects.5.4.2. Electronics and Sensors

[0297] Acoustics', the ways in which a microphone interacts with sound waves, such as how a microphone captures, transduces, and possibly modifies the sound from air pressure waves into electrical signals.

[0298] Acoustic depth', the length or distance from the surface of a device to the diaphragm or MEMS membrane. Acoustic depth is also referred to as the “acoustic channel” or “acoustic path”.

[0299] Acoustic impedance, a measure of the opposition that a system presents to an acoustic flow resulting from an acoustic pressure applied to the system. When a medium or component with a high acoustic impedance, the medium or component resists the passage of sound waves more strongly, requiring more pressure for a given flow (volume velocity).

[0300] Acoustic leak', any unintended path for air, and thus sound waves, to travel into or out of the microphone’s front or back volume without passing solely through the main sound port. Acoustic leaks may alter the effective volume of the back or front chamber and can degrade low-frequency response because sound may bypass the intended acoustic path.

[0301] Acoustic pressure ', the local, time-varying pressure deviation from the ambient (average or equilibrium) atmospheric pressure caused by a sound wave. When a sound wave travels through a medium, it alternately compresses and expands (rarefies) the particles in that medium, which generates small, rapid fluctuations in the ambient pressure; these fluctuations are referred to as the acoustic pressure of the sound wave. Acoustic pressure is typically measured in Pascals (Pa) or micro-Pascals (pPa). Acoustic pressure is also referred to a “sound pressure”.

[0302] Acoustic signal', a sound wave or auditory information. Additionally or alternatively, an acoustic signal is a signal that is produced by sound waves traveling through a medium, such as air or water.

[0303] Acoustic signal processing', the electronic manipulation of acoustic signals.

[0304] Backplate-, a rigid, perforated conductive layer located at a relatively small distance from the diaphragm. In capacitive MEMS microphones, the gap between the backplate and diaphragm forms a capacitor.

[0305] Back volume', the space or cavity behind the microphone diaphragm. The back volume influences the microphone’ s low-frequency response. A larger back volume typically helps reduce the low-frequency cutoff (allowing more low-frequency sounds to pass) and stabilizes the diaphragm movement. Back volume is sometimes referred to as a “back chamber” or “back cavity”.

[0306] Diaphragm-, a thin membrane that vibrates in response to sound pressure. The diaphragm is sometimes referred to as a “ deflectable membrane”, a “MEMS membrane”, or simply as a “membrane”, an acoustic signal as a pressure difference causes the membrane to deflect. In capacitive MEMS microphones, the deflection of the diaphragm or membrane causes a change in the distance between the diaphragm or membrane and the backplate, thereby changing the capacitance of the capacitor created by the gap between the backplate and diaphragm or membrane.

[0307] Frequency response ', a measure of how well a microphone captures different frequencies, such as 20 Hz to 20 kHz for human-audible sound, above 20 kHz for ultrasound, or tailored ranges in specialized applications. The target frequency response for a microphone depends on theapplication or implementation (e.g., speech capture, measuring heart sounds, measuring respiratory sounds, high-fidelity recording, etc.). A flat or well-shaped frequency response may refer to a microphone that accurately reproduces sounds across its frequency range without adding or subtracting too much at specific frequencies. Peaks or dips in the frequency response can be intentional (e.g., to enhance vocal clarity) or unintentional (e.g., from poor acoustic design).

[0308] Front volume-, the area or space between the microphone diaphragm and the external environment, accessed through the sound port. Front volume typically affects high-frequency capture because small front cavities or narrow sound ports can introduce acoustic resistance or resonances. The shape, size, and length of the front acoustic path or sound port depth can create standing waves or resonant peaks, particularly in higher frequency ranges. Reducing front volume may eliminate Helmholtz resonance or move the Helmholtz resonance to a higher frequency. Front volume is sometimes referred to as the “front chamber” or “front cavity”.

[0309] Helmholtz resonance', the acoustic resonance that arises when air in a cavity, such as the back volume, interacts with the mass of air in the neck or port, such as the front volume or sound port.

[0310] Microelectromechanical systems or MEMS'. class of devices integrating electrical and mechanical components or functionality on the microscale (e.g., 1 micrometer (pm) to 100pm). MEMS devices are typically manufactured and / or fabricated using semiconductor fabrication processes. The terms “microelectromechanical systems” and “MEMS” may refer to the technology of fabricating MEMS devices and / or the devices themselves.

[0311] Microphone', a transducer or sensor that converts sound into an electrical signal. Typically, microphones are configured to measure acoustic pressure of a sound wave and convert the acoustic pressure into electrical signals.

[0312] Nanoelectromechanical systems or NEMS'. class of devices integrating electrical and mechanical components or functionality on the nanoscale (e.g., 1 nanometer (nm) to lOOnm). NEMS devices are typically manufactured and / or fabricated using semiconductor fabrication, but may sometimes require more specialized and precise techniques than standard semiconductor processing. The terms “nanoelectromechanical systems” and “NEMS” may refer to the technology of fabricating NEMS devices and / or the devices themselves.

[0313] Rarefaction', the reduction of an item's density. Rarefaction is the opposite of compression.

[0314] Soundwaves', longitudinal waves, or compression waves, that propagate through a medium by causing pressure variations or compressions and rarefactions. Longitudinal sound waves are waves of alternating pressure deviations from the equilibrium pressure, causing local regions of compression and rarefaction.

[0315] Volumetric flow rate', is the volume of fluid which passes per unit time. Volumetric flowrate is also known as “volume flow rate” or “volume velocity”.5.5. OTHER REMARKS

[0316] A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains material which is subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent document or the patent disclosure, as it appears in the Patent and Trademark Office patent file or records, but otherwise reserves all copyright rights whatsoever.

[0317] All publications mentioned herein are incorporated by reference in their entireties to disclose and describe aspects which are the subject of those publications. The publications discussed herein are provided solely for their disclosure prior to the filing date of the present application. Nothing herein is to be construed as an admission that the present technology is not entitled to antedate such publication by virtue of prior invention. Further, the dates of publication provided may be different from the actual publication dates, which may need to be independently confirmed.

[0318] Unless the context clearly dictates otherwise and where a range of values is provided, it is understood that each intervening value, to the tenth of the unit of the lower limit, between the upper and lower limit of that range, and any other stated or intervening value in that stated range is encompassed within the technology. The upper and lower limits of these intervening ranges, which may be independently included in the intervening ranges, are also encompassed within the technology, subject to any specifically excluded limit in the stated range. Where the stated range includes one or both of the limits, ranges excluding either or both of those included limits are also included in the technology. Furthermore, where a value or values are stated herein as being implemented as part of the technology, it is understood that such values may be approximated, unless otherwise stated, and such values may be utilized to any suitable significant digit to the extent that a practical technical implementation may permit or require it.

[0319] Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this technology belongs. Although any methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can also be used in the practice or testing of the present technology, a limited number of the exemplary methods and materials are described herein. When a particular material or combination of materials is / are identified as potentially being used to construct a component, obvious alternative materials with similar properties may be used as a substitute. Furthermore, unless specified to the contrary, any and all components herein described are understood to be capable of being manufactured and, as such, may be manufactured together or separately.

[0320] The subject headings used in the detailed description are included only for the ease of reference of the reader and should not be used to limit the subject matter found throughout thedisclosure or the claims. The subject headings should not be used in construing the scope of the claims or the claim limitations.

[0321] In interpreting the present disclosure, including in the appended claims, all terms should be interpreted in the broadest reasonable manner consistent with the context. In particular, the terms "comprises", "comprising", "including", and "having" should be interpreted as referring to features, elements, integers, steps, operations, and / or components in a non-exclusive manner, indicating that the referenced features, elements, integers, steps, operations, and / or components may be present, or utilized, or combined with other features, elements, integers, steps, operations, components, and / or groups and / or combinations thereof that are not expressly referenced. The singular forms “a,” “an” and “the” are intended to include plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Additionally, the phrase “A and / or B” means (A), (B), or (A and B), and the phrase “A, B, and / or C” means (A), (B), (C), (A and B), (A and C), (B and C), or (A, B and C). The phrase “X(s)” means at least one X, one or more X, a set of X, or a plurality of X. As used herein, the term “each” refers to each member of a set or each member of a subset of a set. The phrases “in an embodiment,” “in one form,” “in some embodiments,” “in one implementation,” “in some implementations,” “in some examples”, “in some aspects”, and other similar phrases may refer to one or more of the same or different embodiments, implementations, examples, forms, and / or aspects. The terms "first", "second", third", "a", "b", "c", and the like, when used in the description or in the claims are introduced to distinguish between elements or steps and are not necessarily describing a sequential or chronological order. Similarly, the terms "top", "bottom", "over", "under", and the like are introduced for descriptive purposes and not necessarily to denote relative positions. The terms “approximately”, “substantially”, “about”, and / or any similar term used herein means + / - 5-10% of the recited value, unless context dictates otherwise. Furthermore, the terms so used are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances and embodiments of the technology are capable of operating according to the present technology in other sequences, or in orientations different from the one(s) described or illustrated above. Any reference signs in the claims shall not be construed as limiting the respective claims concerned.

[0322] Reference to “one or more processors” herein includes situations where a set of processors may be configured to perform one or more operations. Any combination of such a set of processors may perform individual operations or a group of operations, in series and / or in parallel. This may include two or more CPUs), GPUs), APUs, MCUs, MPUs, NPUs, TPUs, TPMs, hardware accelerators, ASICs, FPGAs, DSPs, DPUs, QPUs, PLDs, and / or other hardware-based processing elements, and / or any combination thereof. It may also include situations where the processors have multiple processing cores. Therefore, reference to “one or more” of such devices do not require that all processing elements (or cores) in the set must each perform all of the operations. Rather,unless expressly stated, any one of the one or more processing elements (or cores) may perform different operations when a set of operations is indicated, and different processing elements (or cores) may perform specific operations, either sequentially or in parallel.

[0323] Although the technology herein has been described with reference to particular embodiments, it is to be understood that these embodiments are merely illustrative of the principles and applications of the technology, not limited to the details of the foregoing illustrative embodiments, and that the present technology may be embodied with various changes and modifications without departing from the scope thereof. In some instances, the terminology and symbols may imply specific details that are not required to practice the technology. Furthermore, although process steps in the methodologies may be described or illustrated in an order, such an ordering is not required. Those skilled in the art will recognize that such ordering may be modified and / or aspects thereof may be conducted concurrently or even synchronously. The present examples are therefore to be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive, the scope of the technology being indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description, and all changes which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are therefore intended to be embraced therein. In other words, it is contemplated to cover any and all modifications, variations or equivalents that fall within the scope of the basic underlying principles and whose essential attributes are claimed in this patent application.

Claims

1. CLAIMS1. A processor-implemented method for monitoring sleep related events, the method comprising:obtaining respective sensor data from at least two sensors contained within a single housing of a multi-channel contact sensor measurement device attached to a user’s body; and deriving, from the respective sensor data, a plurality of biosignals suggestive of sleep related events.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein the multi-channel contact sensor measurement device includes an attachment assembly and a sensor module contained within the housing, wherein the sensor module is configured to couple with the attachment assembly and the attachment assembly is configured to attach to the user’s body.

3. The method of claim 2, wherein the attachment assembly is an adhesive patch assembly comprising an adhesive patch configured to stick to the user’s body.

4. The method of claim 3, wherein the adhesive patch assembly is configured to attach to a torso or neck of the user’s body.

5. The method of claim 2, wherein the attachment assembly is a chest strap assembly configured to attach to a torso of the user’s body.

6. The method of claim 5, wherein the chest strap assembly comprises a frame attached to the housing, wherein the frame is configured to couple with a chest strap, and the chest strap is configured to wrap around the torso.

7. The method of claim 2, wherein the attachment assembly is a travel pillow assembly configured to be placed on a neck of the user’s body.

8. The method of any one of claims 2 to 7, wherein the sensor module comprises a sensor face configured to directly contact tissue of the user’s body when the multi-channel contact sensor measurement device is attached to the user’s body.

9. The method of claim 8, wherein the attachment assembly comprises a sensor window configured to receive the sensor face.

10. The method of claim 9, wherein the sensor face is configured to extend through the sensor window when the sensor module is attached to the attachment assembly.

11. The method of any one of claims 2 to 10, wherein the multi-channel contact sensormeasurement device comprises a fastening mechanism configured to couple the sensor module to the attachment assembly.

12. The method of claim 11, wherein the fastening mechanism is a snap connector comprising at least two male connectors and at least two female connectors, wherein each of the at least two female connectors are configured to receive a corresponding one of at least two male connectors.

13. The method of claim 12, wherein the at least two female connectors are disposed on or embedded in the attachment assembly and the at least two male connectors are disposed on the housing.

14. The method of claims 9 and 13, wherein each of the at least two female connectors are positioned on respective sides of the sensor window.

15. The method of claim 12, wherein the at least two female connectors are disposed on or embedded in the housing and the at least two male connectors are disposed on the attachment assembly.

16. The method of claims 9 and 15, wherein each of the at least two male connectors are positioned on respective sides of the sensor window.

17. The method of claim 11, wherein the fastening mechanism is a snap-fit connector.

18. The method of claim 17, wherein the snap-fit connector comprises a latch mechanism to lock the sensor module to the attachment assembly.

19. The method of claim 18, wherein the latch mechanism is disposed on the attachment assembly.

20. The method of claim 19, wherein the latch mechanism is configured to latch on to a ridge portion extending away from the housing.

21. The method of claim 20, wherein the latch mechanism comprises a set of retaining tabs to latch on to the ridge.

22. The method of claim 19, wherein the latch mechanism is configured to lock in to a recess portion formed on the housing.

23. The method of claim 22, wherein the latch mechanism comprises a set of retaining tabs to fit in to the recess.

24. The method of claim 9 and any one of claims 18 to 23, wherein the latch mechanism partially or entirely surrounds a perimeter of the sensor window.

25. The method of any one of claims 17 to 24, wherein the snap-fit connector comprises at least one of an annular snap-fit connector, a cantilever snap-fit connector, a torsional snap-fit connector, a positional snap-fit connector, a U-shaped snap-fit connector, or a custom designed snap-fit connector.

26. The method of claim 11, wherein the fastening mechanism is a cradle mechanism configured to lock the sensor module to the attachment assembly.

27. The method of claim 26, wherein the cradle mechanism comprises a set of cradle arms configured to cradle the housing when the sensor module is attached to the attachment assembly.

28. The method of claim 27, where a shape of each cradle arm of the set of cradle arms complements a shape of a corresponding portion of the housing.

29. The method of any one of claims 8 to 27, wherein at least one sensor of the at least two sensors includes a vibroacoustic sensor.

30. The method of claim 29, wherein the vibroacoustic sensor is configured to measure respiratory flow.

31. The method of any one of claims 29 to 30, wherein the vibroacoustic sensor is configured to measure respiratory rate.

32. The method of any one of claims 29 to 31, wherein the vibroacoustic sensor is configured to measure pulse rate.

33. The method of any one of claims 29 to 32, wherein the vibroacoustic sensor is a contact microphone.

34. The method of claim 33, wherein the contact microphone is a bone-conduction microphone.

35. The method of any one of claims 33 to 34, wherein the contact microphone is a microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) microphone.

36. The method of any one of claims 33 to 35, wherein the vibroacoustic sensor is configured to measure or record breath sounds.

37. The method of any one of claims 33 to 36, wherein the vibroacoustic sensor comprises an acoustic port on a surface of an enclosure of the vibroacoustic sensor.

38. The method of claim 37, wherein the sensor face comprises an acoustic port.

39. The method of any one of claims 37 to 38, wherein a shape of the acoustic port of the sensor face substantially mirrors a shape of the acoustic port on the enclosure of the vibroacoustic sensor.

40. The method of any one of claims 29 to 32, wherein the vibroacoustic sensor is MEMS vibration sensor.

41. The method of any one of claims 29 to 32, wherein the vibroacoustic sensor is MEMS accelerometer.

42. The method of any one of claims 40 to 41, wherein the sensor face does not include an acoustic port.

43. The method of any one of claims 8 to 42, wherein at least one sensor of the at least two sensors includes a reflective sensor.

44. The method of claim 43, wherein the reflective sensor is a reflectance pulse oximeter configured to measure arterial oxygen saturation (SpCh).

45. The method of claim 44, wherein the reflectance pulse oximeter is further configured to measure pulse rate.

46. The method of any one of claims 8 to 42, wherein at least one sensor of the at least two sensors includes a motion sensor.

47. The method of claim 46, wherein the motion sensor is configured to measure breathing effort.

48. The method of any one of claims 46 to 47, wherein the motion sensor is configured to measure chest movements.

49. The method of any one of claims 46 to 48, wherein the motion sensor is an inertial measurement unit (IMU) comprising at least one of an accelerometer, a gyroscope, or a magnetometer.

50. The method of claim 49, wherein the accelerometer is a MEMS accelerometer, the gyroscope is a MEMS gyroscope, and the magnetometer is a MEMS magnetometer.

51. The method of any one of claims 1 to 50, wherein the multi-channel contact sensor measurement device further comprises a controller within the single housing, wherein the controller is connected to each of the at least two sensors.

52. The method of claim 51, wherein the controller comprises at least one processor configured to derive the plurality of biosignals from the respective sensor data.

53. The method of any one of claims 50 to 51, wherein the plurality of biosignals are derived by filtering.

54. The method of any one of claims 50 to 53, wherein the multi-channel contact sensor measurement device further comprises a communication interface connected to the controller.

55. The method of claim 54, wherein the method is performed by the controller, and the method further comprises:causing transmission, using the communication interface, of any one or more of: (a) the respective sensor data, (b) the derived plurality of biosignals, and (c) classified individual segments, to an external computing system over a wired or wireless connection between the communication interface and the external computing system.

56. The method of claim 54, wherein the method is performed by a computing system external to the multi-channel contact sensor measurement device, and the obtaining comprises:receiving the respective sensor data from the multi-channel contact sensor measurement device over a wired or wireless connection with the multi-channel contact sensor measurement device, wherein the respective sensor data is transmitted by the multi-channel contact sensor measurement device using the communication interface.

57. The method of any one of claims 1 to 56, wherein the method further comprises:classifying individual segments of the plurality of biosignals as belonging to one of a plurality of sleep staging events.

58. The method of claim 57, wherein the method further comprises:segmenting each of the plurality of biosignals into the individual segments.

59. The method of claim 58, wherein the classifying comprises:feeding a plurality of the individual segments to a sleep staging model (SSM) to predict a classification label for the individual segments, wherein each classification label corresponds to one or more sleep staging events.

60. The method of claim 59, wherein the SSM is a trained machine learning (ML) classifier model.

61. The method of any one of claims 59 to 60, wherein the method further comprises:outputting the predicted classification labels for each epoch.

62. A controller comprising at least one processor and at least one memory including processor control instructions, the at least one memory and processor control instructions configured to, with the at least one processor, cause the controller to perform a method of any one of claims 1 to 61.

63. A processor-readable storage medium comprising processor-executable instructions, wherein execution of the processor-executable instructions by one or more processors of a computing system is to cause the computing system to perform the method of any one of claims 1 to 61.

64. An apparatus for monitoring sleep related events, comprising:a memory; andat least one processor connected to the memory, the at least one processor configured to:obtain respective sensor data from at least two sensors contained within a single housing of a multi-channel contact sensor measurement device attached to a user’s body; andderive, from the respective sensor data, a plurality of biosignals suggestive of sleep related events.

65. The apparatus of claim 64, wherein the multi-channel contact sensor measurement device includes an attachment assembly and a sensor module contained within the housing, wherein the sensor module is configured to couple with the attachment assembly and the attachment assembly is configured to attach to the user’s body.

66. The apparatus of claim 65, wherein the attachment assembly is an adhesive patch assembly comprising an adhesive patch configured to stick to the user’s body.

67. The apparatus of claim 66, wherein the adhesive patch assembly is configured to attach to a torso or neck of the user’s body.

68. The apparatus of claim 65, wherein the attachment assembly is a chest strap assembly configured to attach to a torso of the user’s body.

69. The apparatus of claim 68, wherein the chest strap assembly comprises a frame attached to the housing, wherein the frame is configured to couple with a chest strap, and the chest strap is configured to wrap around the torso.

70. The apparatus of claim 65, wherein the attachment assembly is a travel pillow assembly configured to be placed on a neck of the user’s body.

71. The apparatus of any one of claims 65 to 70, wherein the sensor module comprises a sensor face configured to directly contact tissue of the user’s body when the multi-channel contact sensor measurement device is attached to the user’s body.

72. The apparatus of claim 71, wherein the attachment assembly comprises a sensor window configured to receive the sensor face.

73. The apparatus of claim 72, wherein the sensor face is configured to extend through the sensor window when the sensor module is attached to the attachment assembly.

74. The apparatus of any one of claims 65 to 73, wherein the multi-channel contact sensor measurement device comprises a fastening mechanism configured to couple the sensor module to the attachment assembly.

75. The apparatus of claim 74, wherein the fastening mechanism is a snap connector comprising at least two male connectors and at least two female connectors, wherein each of the at least two female connectors are configured to receive a corresponding one of at least two male connectors.

76. The apparatus of claim 75, wherein the at least two female connectors are disposed on or embedded in the attachment assembly and the at least two male connectors are disposed on the housing.

77. The apparatus of claims 72 and 76, wherein each of the at least two female connectors are positioned on respective sides of the sensor window.

78. The apparatus of claim 75, wherein the at least two female connectors are disposed on or embedded in the housing and the at least two male connectors are disposed on the attachment assembly.

79. The apparatus of claims 72 and 78, wherein each of the at least two male connectors are positioned on respective sides of the sensor window.

80. The apparatus of claim 74, wherein the fastening mechanism is a snap-fit connector.

81. The apparatus of claim 80, wherein the snap-fit connector comprises a latch mechanism to lock the sensor module to the attachment assembly.

82. The apparatus of claim 81, wherein the latch mechanism is disposed on the attachment assembly.

83. The apparatus of claim 82, wherein the latch mechanism is configured to latch on to a ridge portion extending away from the housing.

84. The apparatus of claim 83, wherein the latch mechanism comprises a set of retaining tabs to latch on to the ridge.

85. The apparatus of claim 82, wherein the latch mechanism is configured to lock in to a recess portion formed on the housing.

86. The apparatus of claim 85, wherein the latch mechanism comprises a set of retaining tabs to fit in to the recess.

87. The apparatus of claim 72 and any one of claims 81 to 86, wherein the latch mechanism partially or entirely surrounds a perimeter of the sensor window.

88. The apparatus of any one of claims 80 to 87, wherein the snap-fit connector comprises at least one of an annular snap-fit connector, a cantilever snap-fit connector, a torsional snap-fit connector, a positional snap-fit connector, a U-shaped snap-fit connector, or a custom designed snap-fit connector.

89. The apparatus of claim 74, wherein the fastening mechanism is a cradle mechanism configured to lock the sensor module to the attachment assembly.

90. The apparatus of claim 89, wherein the cradle mechanism comprises a set of cradle arms configured to cradle the housing when the sensor module is attached to the attachment assembly.

91. The apparatus of claim 90, where a shape of each cradle arm of the set of cradle arms complements a shape of a corresponding portion of the housing.

92. The apparatus of any one of claims 71 to 90, wherein at least one sensor of the at least two sensors includes a vibroacoustic sensor.

93. The apparatus of claim 92, wherein the vibroacoustic sensor is configured to measure respiratory flow.

94. The apparatus of any one of claims 92 to 93, wherein the vibroacoustic sensor is configured to measure respiratory rate.

95. The apparatus of any one of claims 92 to 94, wherein the vibroacoustic sensor is configured to measure pulse rate.

96. The apparatus of any one of claims 92 to 95, wherein the vibroacoustic sensor is a contact microphone.

97. The apparatus of claim 96, wherein the contact microphone is a bone-conduction microphone.

98. The apparatus of any one of claims 96 to 97, wherein the contact microphone is a microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) microphone.

99. The apparatus of any one of claims 96 to 98, wherein the vibroacoustic sensor is configured to measure or record breath sounds.

100. The apparatus of any one of claims 96 to 99, wherein the vibroacoustic sensor comprises an acoustic port on a surface of an enclosure of the vibroacoustic sensor.

101. The apparatus of claim 100, wherein the sensor face comprises an acoustic port.

102. The apparatus of any one of claims 100 to 101, wherein a shape of the acoustic port of the sensor face substantially mirrors a shape of the acoustic port on the enclosure of the vibroacoustic sensor.

103. The apparatus of any one of claims 92 to 95, wherein the vibroacoustic sensor is MEMS vibration sensor.

104. The apparatus of any one of claims 92 to 95, wherein the vibroacoustic sensor is MEMS accelerometer.

105. The apparatus of any one of claims 103 to 104, wherein the sensor face does not include an acoustic port.

106. The apparatus of any one of claims 71 to 105, wherein at least one sensor of the at least two sensors includes a reflective sensor.

107. The apparatus of claim 106, wherein the reflective sensor is a reflectance pulse oximeter configured to measure arterial oxygen saturation (SpCh).

108. The apparatus of claim 107, wherein the reflectance pulse oximeter is further configured to measure pulse rate.

109. The apparatus of any one of claims 71 to 105, wherein at least one sensor of the at least two sensors includes a motion sensor.

110. The apparatus of claim 109, wherein the motion sensor is configured to measure breathing effort.

111. The apparatus of any one of claims 109 to 110, wherein the motion sensor is configured to measure chest movements.

112. The apparatus of any one of claims 109 to 111, wherein the motion sensor is an inertial measurement unit (IMU) comprising at least one of an accelerometer, a gyroscope, or a magnetometer.

113. The apparatus of claim 112, wherein the accelerometer is a MEMS accelerometer, the gyroscope is a MEMS gyroscope, and the magnetometer is a MEMS magnetometer.

114. The apparatus of any one of claims 64 to 113, wherein the multi-channel contact sensor measurement device further comprises a controller within the single housing, wherein the controller is connected to each of the at least two sensors.

115. The apparatus of claim 114, wherein the controller comprises the at least one processor configured to derive the plurality of biosignals from the respective sensor data.

116. The apparatus of any one of claims 113 to 114, wherein the plurality of biosignals are derived by filtering.

117. The apparatus of any one of claims 113 to 116, wherein the multi-channel contact sensor measurement device further comprises a communication interface connected to the controller.

118. The apparatus of claim 117, wherein the controller is configured to: cause transmission, using the communication interface, of any one or more of: (a) the respective sensor data, (b) the derived plurality of biosignals, and (c) classified individual segments, to an external computing system over a wired or wireless connection between the communication interface and the external computing system.

119. The apparatus of claim 117, wherein the controller is part of a computing system external to the multi-channel contact sensor measurement device, and the obtaining the respective sensor data comprises:receive the respective sensor data from the multi-channel contact sensor measurementdevice over a wired or wireless connection with the multi-channel contact sensor measurement device, wherein the respective sensor data is transmitted by the multi-channel contact sensor measurement device using the communication interface.

120. The apparatus of any one of claims 64 to 119, wherein the controller is configured to:classify individual segments of the plurality of biosignals as belonging to one of a plurality of sleep staging events.

121. The apparatus of claim 120, wherein the controller is configured to:segment each of the plurality of biosignals into the individual segments.

122. The apparatus of claim 121, wherein the classification comprises:feed a plurality of the individual segments to a sleep staging model (SSM) to predict a classification label for the individual segments, wherein each classification label corresponds to one or more sleep staging events.

123. The apparatus of claim 122, wherein the SSM is a trained machine learning (ML) classifier model.

124. The apparatus of any one of claims 122 to 123, wherein the controller is configured to: output the predicted classification labels for each epoch.

125. A multi-channel contact sensor measurement device, comprising:an attachment assembly configured to attach to a user’s body;a housing configured to couple with the attachment assembly;a sensor module contained within the housing, the sensor module including at least two sensors, and the at least two sensors are configured to generate respective sensor data when the multi-channel contact sensor measurement device is attached to the user’s body.

126. The multi-channel contact sensor measurement device of claim 125, wherein the attachment assembly is an adhesive patch assembly comprising an adhesive patch configured to stick to a torso or neck of the user’s body, a chest strap assembly configured to attach to a torso of the user’s body, or a travel pillow assembly configured to be placed on a neck of the user’s body.

127. The multi-channel contact sensor measurement device of any one of claims 125 to 126, wherein the attachment assembly or the housing comprises a fastening mechanism, the fastening mechanism configured to couple the housing to the attachment assembly.

128. The multi-channel contact sensor measurement device of any one of claims 125 to 127,-n -wherein at least one sensor of the at least two sensors includes a vibroacoustic sensor configured to measure at least one of respiratory flow, respiratory rate, pulse rate, or breath sounds.

129. The multi-channel contact sensor measurement device of claim 128, wherein the vibroacoustic sensor is a microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) microphone, a MEMS vibration sensor, or a MEMS accelerometer.

130. The multi-channel contact sensor measurement device of claim 129, wherein the MEMS microphone is a bone-conduction microphone.

131. The multi-channel contact sensor measurement device of any one of claims 129 to 130, wherein, when the vibroacoustic sensor is the MEMS microphone, the vibroacoustic sensor comprises an acoustic port on a surface of an enclosure of the vibroacoustic sensor.

132. The multi-channel contact sensor measurement device of claim 131, wherein the housing comprises a sensor face, and the sensor face comprises an acoustic port, and a shape of the acoustic port of the sensor face substantially mirrors a shape of the acoustic port on the enclosure of the vibroacoustic sensor.

133. The multi-channel contact sensor measurement device of any one of claims 125 to 132, wherein at least one sensor of the at least two sensors includes a reflective sensor configured to measure at least one of an arterial oxygen saturation (SpCh) or a pulse rate.

134. The multi-channel contact sensor measurement device of any one of claims 125 to 133, wherein at least one sensor of the at least two sensors includes a motion sensor configured to measure at least one of breathing effort or chest movements.

135. The multi-channel contact sensor measurement device of 134, wherein the motion sensor is an inertial measurement unit (IMU) comprising at least one of a MEMS accelerometer, a MEMS gyroscope, or a MEMS magnetometer.

136. The multi-channel contact sensor measurement device of any one of claims 125 to 135, wherein the sensor module further comprises a controller within the housing, wherein the controller is connected to each of the at least two sensors.

137. The multi-channel contact sensor measurement device of claim 136, wherein the controller comprises at least one processor configured to:obtain the respective sensor data from the at least two sensors; andderive, from the respective sensor data, a plurality of biosignals suggestive of sleep relatedevents.

138. The multi-channel contact sensor measurement device of any one of claims 136 to 137, wherein the sensor module further comprises a communication interface connected to the controller.

139. The multi-channel contact sensor measurement device of claim 138, wherein the controller is configured to: cause transmission, using the communication interface, of any one or more of: (a) the respective sensor data, (b) a plurality of biosignals, and (c) classified individual segments, to an external computing system over a wired or wireless connection between the communication interface and the external computing system.

140. The multi-channel contact sensor measurement device of any one of claims 136 to 139, wherein the controller is configured to: classify individual segments of the plurality of biosignals as belonging to one of a plurality of sleep staging events.

141. The multi-channel contact sensor measurement device of claim 140, wherein the controller is configured to: segment each of the plurality of biosignals into the individual segments.

142. The multi-channel contact sensor measurement device of claim 141, wherein the classification comprises: feed a plurality of the individual segments to a sleep staging model (SSM) to predict a classification label for the individual segments, wherein each classification label corresponds to one or more sleep staging events.

143. The multi-channel contact sensor measurement device of claim 142, wherein the SSM is a trained machine learning (ML) classifier model.

144. The multi-channel contact sensor measurement device of any one of claims 142 to 143, wherein the controller is configured to: output the predicted classification labels for each epoch.

Images