Energy-optimized measurement of vital parameters in the auditory canal

Abstract

The present invention relates to a device for measuring vital parameters in the auditory canal of a human being or of an animal, having an energy-saving function, and to a method for measuring vital parameters in the auditory canal of a human being or of an animal.

Description

[0001] Cosinuss GmbH

[0002] ENERGY-OPTIMIZED MEASUREMENT OF VITAL PARAMETERS IN THE AERIAL CANAL

[0003] The present invention relates to a device for measuring vital parameters in the ear canal of a human and an animal with an energy-saving function and a method for measuring vital parameters in the ear canal of a human and an animal.

[0004] State of the art

[0005] In-ear sensor systems (IE systems) for monitoring vital functions are important for the real-time monitoring of vital parameters such as heart rate, blood oxygen saturation, body temperature, and blood pressure. They are very useful for chronically ill patients, as they enable proactive treatment of conditions such as hypertension.

[0006] In the field of vital sign monitoring in the ear, there are many challenges affecting usability, performance, long-term wearability, and operating time. Medical in-ear (IE) sensor systems should be compact, lightweight, and easy to wear to ensure patient comfort. Current systems are quite large and heavy due to the multiple sensors used to measure the patient's vital parameters. To reduce the size and weight of IE sensor systems and thus improve user acceptance, the power source (accumulator, battery, or other suitable power source) must be minimized without compromising operating time.

[0007] Description of the invention, problem, solution, advantages

[0008] Based on the aforementioned considerations, the present invention therefore aims to provide a device and method for measuring vital parameters in the ear canal of a human and an animal. (Cosinuss GmbH)

[0009] in which the replacement or recharging of energy carriers (battery or accumulator) is required less frequently. Another task was to provide a device and method for measuring vital parameters in the ear canal of a human and an animal, in which the energy carrier can be smaller or have a larger capacity. At the same time, it would be desirable for such an application to require less frequent electrical recharging and be easier to use.

[0010] In its first aspect, the disclosure relates to a device suitable for measuring vital parameters in the ear canal of a human or an animal, with an energy-saving function. The device may comprise at least one first sensor (S1) capable of measuring at least one first parameter (P1) of the first sensor (S1) in the ear canal of a human or an animal. The device may also comprise at least one second sensor (S2) capable of measuring at least one second parameter (P2) of the second sensor (S2) in the ear canal of a human or an animal. The first parameter (P1) can be processed and evaluated by at least one first algorithm (A1). Depending on the result of the evaluation by the at least one first algorithm (A1), the at least one second sensor (S2) can be controlled.Alternatively, depending on the result of the evaluation of at least one first algorithm (A1), at least one second algorithm (A2) for processing the second parameters (P2) can be activated or deactivated.

[0011] According to this disclosure, sensor control is understood to mean any directed influencing of the sensor's behavior. This control can include adjusting the sampling rate, adjusting the light intensity, or even switching a sensor on and off.

[0012] In this application, a sensor is understood to be any sensor that can provide an output signal with respect to a specific physical quantity (input). The input signal can be the measured vital and patient parameters, such as temperature and blood pressure. (Cosinuss GmbH)

[0013] Display photoplethysmophy data, acceleration, position, or other parameters.

[0014] In this application, an algorithm is understood to be any algorithm that is a step-by-step set of rules and instructions designed to accomplish a task. It is clear, finite, and produces a specific result based on given inputs. One or more algorithms can be used to create a computer program that can automatically control and adjust physical machines, or in this case, sensors.

[0015] Surprisingly, it has been shown that such a measurement of vital parameters in the ear canal of a human or animal is suitable, and that a very small energy carrier with a large capacity can be used. At the same time, it has been shown that such an application requires less frequent electrical recharging and is easier to handle.

[0016] In a preferred implementation, the device may include at least one third sensor (S3) capable of measuring at least one third parameter (P3) of the third sensor (S3) in the ear canal of a human or an animal. The second parameter (P2) can be processed and evaluated by at least one second algorithm (A2). Depending on the result of the evaluation by the at least one second algorithm (A2), the at least one third sensor (S3) can be controlled. Alternatively, depending on the result of the evaluation by the at least one second algorithm (A2), at least one third algorithm (A3) for processing the third parameter (P3) can be activated or deactivated.

[0017] The first sensor (S1) can be selected from the group consisting of temperature sensor, pressure sensor, capacitive sensor, accelerometer (ACC), and inertial measurement unit (IMU). The second sensor (S2) can be selected from the group consisting of a photoplethysmogram (PPG) sensor, which consists of one or more LEDs or photodiodes. Cosinuss GmbH

[0018] A temperature sensor can monitor a patient's core body temperature by measuring the heat in the ear canal. The sensor can use thermistors or infrared sensors for non-contact temperature measurements.

[0019] In the context of this disclosure, a pressure sensor is a device that can measure the pressure of the sensor against the ear canal wall in the ear or ear canal.

[0020] In the context of this revelation, a capacitive sensor is any sensor that operates based on the change in electrical capacitance of a capacitor or a system of capacitors. Examples of capacitive sensors include capacitive pressure sensors, capacitive distance sensors or proximity switches, capacitive accelerometers, and capacitive humidity sensors.

[0021] In the context of this disclosure, an accelerometer (ACC) is a sensor that measures acceleration forces and can detect changes in the patient's movement and orientation. It can therefore monitor the patient's physical movements and activity levels, as well as detect physiological events related to the user's body.

[0022] The inertial measurement unit (IMU) is a sensor containing accelerometers and / or gyroscopes to detect the movement and head position of the monitored patient. It helps to compensate for motion artifacts in other measurements.

[0023] A photoplethysmography sensor (PPG) uses light-based techniques to measure various parameters, such as heart rate and blood oxygen saturation (SpO2). It typically contains LEDs that emit light into the skin and a photodetector that detects the reflected or transmitted light to calculate changes in blood flow. PPG sensors generally use the following types of LEDs: (1) Infrared (IR) LEDs with a wavelength between 850 and 950 nm, which can penetrate deeper into tissue. IR light can detect changes in blood volume in deeper tissues.

[0024] (1) Detects vascular layers. In the PPG sensor, it can be used for continuous measurement of heart rate and blood flow. (2) Red LEDs with a wavelength of approximately 660 nm, which can interact with oxygenated and oxygen-free hemoglobin, making them suitable for measuring blood oxygen saturation (SpO2). In the PPG, they can be combined with IR LEDs for dual-wavelength measurements in pulse oximetry. (3) Green LEDs with a wavelength between 500 and 570 nm. This green light is strongly absorbed by hemoglobin, making it particularly effective for detecting changes in blood volume closer to the skin surface. In the PPG, due to its sensitivity to changes in blood perfusion in superficial capillaries, it can be used to monitor heart rate.

[0025] In another preferred implementation, the first sensor (S1) is a temperature sensor. The second sensor (S2) can be either an accelerometer (ACC) and / or an inertial measurement unit (IMU). The third sensor (S3) is selected from the group consisting of a photoplethysmogram (PPG) sensor, which comprises one or more LEDs or photodiodes. This implementation offers a significant advantage because energy savings are achieved through adaptive mechanisms based on motion data, pulse wave shape, and pulse wave quality assessment. The sampling rate of the PPG sensors can be adjusted, individual light colors can be switched on or off, and specific algorithms can be activated or deactivated as needed. These implementations demonstrate a high degree of adaptability for optimizing energy efficiency.

[0026] In a preferred implementation, the device can have at least one fourth sensor (S4) that can measure at least one fourth parameter (P4) of the fourth sensor (S4) in the ear canal of a human or an animal. The third parameter (P3) can be processed and evaluated by at least one third algorithm (A3). Depending on the result of the evaluation by the at least one third algorithm (A3), the Cosinuss GmbH

[0027] At least one fourth sensor (S4) can be controlled. Alternatively, depending on the result of the evaluation of at least one third algorithm (A3), at least one fourth algorithm (A4) for processing the fourth parameter (P4) can be activated or deactivated. This implementation offers further advantages in increasing flexibility for optimizing energy consumption while simultaneously adapting measurements to different patient parameters. In various patient cases, monitoring additional parameters may be necessary to activate, deactivate, or adjust other required parameters as needed.

[0028] In another implementation, the first sensor (S1) can be a temperature sensor. The second sensor (S2) can be either a pressure sensor or a contact sensor. The third sensor (S3) can be either an accelerometer (ACC) or an inertial measurement unit (IMU). The fourth sensor (S4) can be selected from the group consisting of a photoplethysmogram (PPG) sensor, which comprises one or more LEDs or photodiodes.

[0029] The measurement by the first sensor (S1) can be continuous or time-interval. Preferably, the at least one first sensor (S1) can be a continuously measuring sensor or a time-interval measuring sensor; preferably, it is a continuously measuring sensor.

[0030] The algorithms can be cascaded, so that the inputs and outputs as well as the quality parameters of the first algorithm are used to activate or deactivate the next algorithm, or to control the sampling frequency of the various sensors, the current of the LEDs or the use of the different light colors.

[0031] Preferably, the at least one second sensor (S2) can be controlled by deactivating or activating the second sensor (S2) or by changing a sampling rate. Cosinuss GmbH

[0032] In another implementation, the at least one first parameter (P1) can be the body temperature of a human or animal. The at least one first algorithm (A1) can evaluate the body temperature and / or the at least one first parameter (P1) can be a contact pressure or a capacitive change, and the at least one first algorithm (A1) can evaluate the contact pressure or the capacitive change.

[0033] Preferably, the at least one second parameter (P2) can be an acceleration parameter. The at least one second algorithm (A2) can evaluate the acceleration and / or the at least one second parameter (P2) can be a position and / or acceleration parameter and the at least one second algorithm (A2) can evaluate the position and / or acceleration. The at least one third parameter (P3) can be a pulse rate or a cardiographic parameter. The at least one third algorithm (A3) can evaluate the pulse rate or the cardiographic parameter.

[0034] Preferably, the control of the at least one second sensor (S2) can be achieved by switching the power supply of the at least one second sensor (S2) on and off or by adapting the power supply of the at least one second sensor (S2).

[0035] In a second aspect, the disclosure relates to a method for measuring vital parameters in the ear canal of a human and an animal using the device. Energy-efficient methods of the present application can be achieved by switching the power supply of a sensor on and off or by adjusting the current consumption of a sensor.

[0036] In one implementation, photoplethysmography (PPG) data acquisition can extract a signal quality metric (SQM) from the acquired PPG data. The method can classify the PPG data signal into one of several signal quality levels based on the extracted SQM and determine, based on this classification, whether a power level of a Cosinuss GmbH

[0037] The LED of the biometric monitoring device is to be increased, decreased or maintained.

[0038] The aspects mentioned above offer significant advantages for edge computing and the optimization of medical IE sensor systems. By integrating the computational algorithms directly into the sensors, they can be individually adapted to the user's needs or external conditions. This reduces energy consumption and enables a more compact power source and system size.

[0039] Data processing, storage, and analysis take place closer to the source, i.e., the sensors, which reduces energy consumption. This also makes it possible to reduce latency, improve real-time decision-making, minimize bandwidth usage, and increase data security.

[0040] Brief description of the characters

[0041] The following are some exemplary and non-exhaustive descriptions of special embodiments of the invention with reference to the accompanying figures.

[0042] The particular embodiments serve only to illustrate the general inventive idea, but do not limit the invention.

[0043] The special embodiments show:

[0044] Fig. 1 shows a schematic representation of the sensor control (S1-S3) in the ear canal device based on the evaluation of the collected data by algorithms; and

[0045] Fig. 2 shows a schematic representation of the sensor control (S1-S4) in the ear canal device based on the evaluation of the collected data by algorithms. Cosinuss GmbH

[0046] Preferred embodiment of the invention

[0047] Efficient energy and electricity consumption management in an in-the-ear-canal system

[0048] Figure 1 shows the setup of an in-the-ear system as an example of efficient energy and power consumption management. The system features a grid of three sensors for measuring temperature (S1), motion (S2), and photoplethysmography (PPG) signals (S3). This device operates using edge computing, with all control and evaluation algorithms integrated within the device itself. The PPG sensor uses multiple light sources (LEDs), each offering a specific advantage: Green light: Ensures accurate heart rate detection. Infrared (IR) light: Measures blood oxygen saturation (SpO2), optimized for oxygenated blood. Red light: Also measures SpO2, but is particularly effective for oxygen-poor blood. All sensors are continuously active in the default settings. Their outputs - temperature (P1), motion (P2) and PPG-derived parameters (P3a, P3b, P3c) - are processed by corresponding algorithms (A1 , A2, A3).This continuous operation results in maximum power consumption, as all components, including LEDs and algorithms, function simultaneously. To optimize power consumption, the system dynamically adjusts sensor activity based on the evaluation results. For example: Activity detection: If S2 detects increased movement and S1 reports slightly elevated temperatures (indicating activity), oxygen saturation (SpO2) measurements are considered unnecessary. Consequently, the red and IR LEDs, along with their calculation algorithms (A3), are deactivated. Reduced sampling frequency: During periods of activity, sleep, or inactivity, the system can also reduce the sampling frequency of all sensors to save even more power. These adjustments significantly reduce power consumption and extend the device's battery life. The system is flexible and can be expanded with additional sensors to monitor other specific parameters.17653.

[0049] Cosinuss GmbH

[0050] Flexibility in the energy and electricity consumption management of an in-the-ear system

[0051] Figure 2 illustrates the setup of an in-the-ear system as an example of efficient energy and power consumption management. The system comprises four sensors for measuring temperature (S1), contact pressure of the sensor with the skin of the ear canal (S2), movement / orientation (S3), and photoplethysmography (PPG) signals (S4). As in the previous example, the device is based on edge computing, with all control and evaluation algorithms integrated directly into the device.

[0052] In standard operation, all sensors are continuously active. The measured values ​​– temperature (P1), pressure or contact with the skin of the inner ear (P2), movement / orientation (P3), and PPG parameters (P4a, P4b, P4c) – are processed by the corresponding algorithms (A1, A2, A3, A4). However, this continuous operation results in high power consumption, as all components, including LEDs and calculation algorithms, are permanently active.

[0053] Power consumption optimization: The system reduces power consumption by dynamically adjusting sensor activity based on the evaluation results. Examples include:

[0054] a. Activity detection: If S3 registers increased movement, S1 reports a slightly elevated temperature (indicating activity), frequent SpO2 and heart rate measurements are considered unnecessary. In this case, the system deactivates the red and IR LEDs and the associated algorithms (A4).

[0055] b. Reduced sampling frequency: During periods of sleep or inactivity, the sampling frequency of all sensors is reduced, further minimizing energy consumption.17653

[0056] Cosinuss GmbH

[0057] c. Hyperactivity or training: During active movements such as running or training, the green LED is activated for precise fitness tracking (heart rate measurement), while other LEDs and algorithms remain deactivated to reduce power consumption.

[0058] d. System standby mode: When the user removes the device from the ear, the temperature reading (S1) and the contact pressure decrease significantly, or a change in capacitance due to the lack of contact with the inner ear skin is observed (S2). In response, the algorithms enter a standby mode and deactivate all but one of the LEDs and sensors. The device then switches to signal quality metric (SQM) mode and uses all sensors for periodic or continuous measurements at short intervals until pressure detection is resumed. As soon as contact pressure is detected or a change in capacitance due to contact with the inner ear skin is observed, the system returns to normal operation. This power-saving mechanism ensures efficiency when the device is not being worn by the user.

[0059] This example demonstrates the system's flexibility in adapting its algorithms to the user's state or external influences (such as high activity or frequent user movement). Additional sensors, such as ambient light or temperature sensors, can be used to more accurately determine the user's status. Furthermore, this dynamic control allows for the prioritization of measurements based on user needs, thus optimizing energy consumption and extending the device's battery life.

Claims

Cosinuss GmbH Patent claims 1. A device suitable for measuring vital parameters in the ear canal of a human and an animal with an energy-saving function, comprising: - at least one first sensor (S1) that can measure at least one first parameter (P1) of the at least one first sensor (S1) in the ear canal of a human and an animal, and - at least one second sensor (S2) that can measure at least one second parameter (P2) of the at least one second sensor (S2) in the ear canal of a human and an animal, wherein at least one first algorithm (A1) processes and evaluates the first parameters (P1 ), and wherein depending on the result of the evaluation of the at least one first algorithm (A1) the at least one second sensor (S2) can be controlled or wherein depending on the result of the evaluation of the at least one first algorithm (A1) at least one second algorithm (A2) for processing the second parameters (P2) can be activated or deactivated.

2. The device according to claim 1, further comprising: - at least one third sensor (S3) that can measure at least one third parameter (P3) of the at least one third sensor (S3) in the ear canal of a human and an animal, wherein at least the second algorithm (A2) processes and evaluates the second parameters (P2), and wherein, depending on the result of the evaluation of at least one second algorithm (A2), at least one third sensor (S3) can be controlled, or wherein, depending on the result of the evaluation of at least one second algorithm (A2), at least one third algorithm (A3) for processing the third parameters (P3) can be activated or deactivated. Cosinuss GmbH 3. The device according to claim 1, wherein the at least one first sensor (S1) is selected from the group consisting of temperature sensor, pressure sensor, capacitive sensor, accelerometer (ACC), inertial measurement unit (IMU), and wherein the second sensor (S2) is selected from the group consisting of a photoplethysmogram (PPG) based sensor consisting of one or more LEDs or photodiodes.

4. The device according to claim 2, wherein the at least one first sensor (S1) is a temperature sensor, wherein the second sensor (S2) is either an accelerometer (ACC) or an inertial measurement unit (IMU), and wherein the third sensor (S3) is selected from the group consisting of a photoplethysmogram (PPG) based sensor consisting of one or more LEDs or photodiodes.

5. The device according to claim 2, further comprising: - at least one fourth sensor (S4) that can measure at least one fourth parameter (P4) of the at least one fourth sensor (S4) in the ear canal of a human and an animal, wherein at least the third algorithm (A3) processes and evaluates the third parameters (P3), and wherein depending on the result of the evaluation of the at least one third algorithm (A3) the at least one fourth sensor (S4) can be controlled or wherein depending on the result of the evaluation of the at least one third algorithm (A3) at least one fourth algorithm (A4) for processing the fourth parameters (P4) can be activated or deactivated.

6. The device according to claim 5, wherein the at least one first sensor (S1) is a temperature sensor, wherein the at least one second sensor (S2) is either a pressure sensor or a contact sensor, and wherein the at least one third sensor (S3) is either a Cosinuss GmbH accelerometer (ACC) or inertial measurement unit (IMU) and wherein the fourth sensor (S4) is selected from the group consisting of a photoplethysmogram (PPG) based sensor consisting of one or more LEDs or photodiodes.

7. The device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one first sensor (S1) is a continuously measuring sensor or a sensor measuring at time intervals, preferably a continuously measuring sensor.

8. The device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one second sensor (S2) can be controlled by deactivating or activating the second sensor (S2) or by changing a sampling rate.

9. The device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one first parameter (P1) is a body temperature of a human or animal and the at least one first algorithm (A1) evaluates the body temperature and / or the at least one first parameter (P1) is a contact pressure or a capacitive change and the at least one first algorithm (A1) evaluates the contact pressure or the capacitive change.

10. The device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one second parameter (P2) is an acceleration parameter and the at least one second algorithm (A2) evaluates the acceleration and / or the at least one second parameter (P2) is an alignment parameter and the at least one second algorithm (A2) evaluates the alignment.

11. The device according to any one of claims 2 to 10, wherein the at least one third parameter (P3) is a pulse frequency or a Cosinuss GmbH cardiographic parameter and at least one third algorithm (A3) evaluates the pulse rate or the cardiographic parameter.

12. The device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the control of the at least one second sensor (S2) is effected by switching on and off the power supply of the at least one second sensor (S2) or by adapting the energy consumption of the at least one second sensor (S2).

13. A method for measuring vital parameters in the ear canal of a human and an animal using the device according to one of the preceding claims.

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