Sensor device, system, and method for determining temperatures in different regions of foot

Abstract

Disclosed is a sensor device for determining temperatures of different regions of a given body part, wherein the body part is at least one foot. The sensor device comprises a first layer with a first side and a second side opposite to the first side; a second layer arranged on the first side of the first layer, the second layer comprising at least one temperature- sensitive indicator; and a third layer covering the second layer, wherein the sensor device is configured to determine temperatures of different regions of the given body part when at least partially in contact with the different regions of the given body part. Disclosed also is a system and a method for determining temperatures of different regions of a given body part, wherein the body part is at least one foot.

Description

[0001] SENSOR. DEVICE, SYSTEM, AND METHOD FOR DETERMINING TEMPERATURES IN DIFFERENT REGIONS OF FOOT

[0002] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The present disclosure relates to sensor devices for determining temperatures in regions of given body parts, wherein the given body part is at least one foot. Moreover, the present disclosure relates to systems for determining temperatures in regions of given body parts, wherein the body part is at least one foot. Furthermore, the present disclosure relates to methods for determining temperatures in regions of given body parts, wherein the body part is at least one foot.

[0004] BACKGROUND

[0005] Podiatric abnormalities refer to any structural or functional irregularities in the foot. As such podiatric abnormalities may be caused by vascular disorders and diabetic neuropathy. Whereby vascular disorders may give rise to reduced blood flow in the foot and diabetic neuropathy encompasses nerve damage due to diabetes, both conditions cause changes in the skin surface temperature of the foot.

[0006] Existing methods for detecting podiatric abnormalities involve physical examination by manually probing for lumps and the subjective identification of areas of discolouration, which can be subjective. Often identification of these features may not be early enough, and the disease may have spread. Additionally, these existing methods are timeconsuming, expensive, invasive, and typically require the involvement of clinically or medically trained professionals in a clinical setting.

[0007] Conventionally various temperature-sensing methodologies, such as thermography, have been used to detect temperature changes. However,the temperature-sensing methodologies share common limitations, including the need for controlled environmental conditions, patient acclimation time, and the potential for interference from external sources like direct sunlight or cosmetics. Moreover, the temperature-sensing methodologies require correlation with other clinical findings to assess abnormalities accurately. In an example, temperature-sensing methodologies such as liquid crystal thermography are time-consuming, offer low thermal sensitivity, and have poor spatial resolution. In another example, temperature-sensing methodologies such as medical infrared thermography rely on infrared cameras to detect thermal radiation emitted by the subject body's surface. However, medical infrared thermography requires the analysis of a time series of temperature images using methods like Fast Fourier Transform, which may not be well-suited for detecting foot-specific abnormalities.

[0008] Therefore, in light of the foregoing discussion, there exists a need to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks.

[0009] SUMMARY

[0010] The object of the present disclosure is to provide a sensor device, a system and a method for determining temperatures of different regions of a given body part, wherein the body part is at least one foot, to identify a functional and structural abnormality associated therewith as defined in the appended independent claims. Advantageous features are set out in the appended dependent claims.

[0011] Throughout the description and claims of this specification, the words "comprise" , "include", "have", and "contain" and variations of these words, for example "comprising" and "comprises" , mean "including but not limited to" , and do not exclude other components, items, integers or steps not explicitly disclosed also to be present. Moreover, the singular encompasses the plural unless the context otherwise requires. Inparticular, where the indefinite article is used, the specification is to be understood as contemplating plurality as well as singularity, unless the context requires otherwise.

[0012] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 1 is an illustration of a sensor device for determining temperatures in regions of a given body part, wherein the body part is at least one foot, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0013] FIG. 2 is an illustration of a system for determining temperatures in regions of a given body part, wherein the body part is at least one foot , in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; and FIG. 3 is an illustration of a method for determining temperatures in regions of a given body part, wherein the body part is at least one foot, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0014] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0015] The following detailed description illustrates embodiments of the present disclosure and ways in which they can be implemented. Although some modes of carrying out the present disclosure have been disclosed, those skilled in the art would recognise that other embodiments for carrying out or practising the present disclosure are also possible.

[0016] In a first aspect, the present disclosure provides a sensor device for determining temperatures of different regions of a given body part, the sensor device comprising:

[0017] a first layer with a first side and a second side opposite to the first side;

[0018] a second layer arranged on the first side of the first layer, the second side comprising at least one temperature-sensitive indicator,wherein a temperature-sensitive indicator comprises cholesteric liquid crystalline formulations,

[0019] wherein the cholesteric liquid crystalline formulations display colours corresponding to a temperature range, wherein colours remain following removal from the surface,

[0020] a third layer covering the second layer,

[0021] wherein the third layer is configured to protect the second layer from environmental and mechanical impacts to maintain the integrity of the second layer,

[0022] wherein the sensor device is a pad with a diameter in the range of 0.5 cm to 2 cm; and

[0023] wherein the sensor device is configured to determine temperatures of different regions of the given body part when at least partially in contact with the given body part.

[0024] In a second aspect, the present disclosure provides a system for determining temperatures in different regions of a given body part, the system comprising:

[0025] at least one sensor device of the first aspect,

[0026] at least one camera, communicably coupled to the sensor device, configured to capture one or more images obtained from at least one temperature-sensitive indicator;

[0027] at least one processor, communicably coupled to the at least one camera, wherein the at least one processor is configured to execute at least one software module to:

[0028] identify, in the at least one image, at least one image segment representing the at least one temperature-sensitive indicator;recognize pixel values of pixels in the at least one image segment; and

[0029] determine the temperatures of different regions of the given body part, based on the pixel values of pixels in the at least one image segment to form a temperature profile of the given body part.

[0030] In a third aspect, the present disclosure provides a method for determining temperatures in a region of a given body part, the method comprising:

[0031] capturing at least one image of the at least one temperaturesensitive indicator of the at least one sensor device, wherein the at least one image is captured within a given time period;

[0032] identifying in the at least one image, at least one segment representing the at least one temperature-sensitive indicator;

[0033] recognizing one or more pixel values of one or more pixels in the the at least one segment; and

[0034] determining the temperatures of different regions of the given body part, based on the one or more pixel values in the at least one image segment; and

[0035] generating a temperature profile of the given body part.

[0036] In a fourth aspect, the present disclosure provides a computer-readable storage medium comprising at least one software application comprising instructions for determining temperatures in a given body part, which when executed by a processor, causes the processor to execute steps of a method of the aforementioned claim.

[0037] Throughout the present disclosure, the term "sensor device" as used herein refers to a temperature-sensing device. The sensor device is suitable designed to be placed against a given body part, such as a foot, such that it at least partially covers the given body part.It will be appreciated that teachings of the present disclosure are not limited to any particular body part. However, the at least one sensor device of the present disclosure can be implemented on any part of the body to detect any potential abnormalities based upon a temperature in that part. For example, when the sensor device is in contact with an area of skin of a given body part the temperature profile of the area may indicate a level of fatigue and / or a potential rupture of muscle in an underlying muscle. It may also indicate poor blood circulation, poor nerve function, inflammation or any other function that causes a local increase in temperature.

[0038] The sensor device can be in contact with the body part of the user for a predefined time period. In an instance, when the body part is the at least one breast, the predefined time period may lie in a range of 5 minutes to 30 minutes. The period of time may be lower, for example, 30 seconds, 1 minute, 2 minutes etc. It is sufficient for the contact of the sensor device with the given body part to be made for period of time that allows the sensor device to indicate a temperature higher than adjacent regions or areas of a given body part. This also applies wherein the give body part is wounded and therefore, the sensor device senses temperatures from any surface. For example, the sensor device senses temperatures of a wound dressing when the wound dressing is in contact with a body part.

[0039] In another instance, when the body part is one of: the at least one portion of the skin, the at least one foot, the predefined time period may lie in a range of 5 minutes to 15 minutes. As an example, when the body part is one of: the at least one portion of the skin, the at least one foot, the predefined time period may be 10 minutes. In yet another instance, when the body part is the at least one testicle, the predefined time period may lie in a range of 5 minutes to 20 minutes. As an example, when the body part is the at least one testicle, the predefined time period may be 15 minutes.Throughout, the present disclosure, the term "first layer" as used herein refers to a transparent layer arranged at a top of the sensor device. The term "second layer" as used herein refers to a substrate layer with a thermochromic side. The term "third layer" as used herein refers to a protective film that covers the thermochromic side of the second layer. The term "temperature-sensitive indicator" as used herein refers to a film-based element comprising the second layer with the thermochromic side and the third layer covering the thermochromic side. The thermochromic side of the second layer is a crucial component of the temperature-sensitive indicator, as it allows the sensor device to detect and display the temperatures of various regions of a given body part. The sensor device is designed to be at least partially in contact with the given body part for a predefined time to facilitate accurate measurement of temperature variations in different regions of the given body part.

[0040] Wherein the given body part is at least one foot, the sensor device may determine the difference in temperature of one region of the foot compared to another region of the same foot to aid clinical investigations and stem cell research. Briefly, foot abnormalities can be detected by changes in temperature and / or changes in blood flow. As such, the sensor device may be pads which are placed on the under surface of the foot or under each toe. The pads of the sensor device can detect changes in temperature and / or blood flow in areas of the foot and / or toe. The sensor device is suitable for the detection of any excess heat-producing abnormality in the foot or a lower temperature in the foot extremities that can be apparent in diabetes. The results can be viewed directly on the sensor device or entered on a display unit for immediate interpretation. The display unit could be a software application or a webpage. The sensor device provides a safe, non-invasive and cost-effective method for routinely detecting abnormalities that can be used in conjunction with or to supplement already established investigative procedures including clinical foot examinations.Wherein the device is placed under each toe, the diameter of the pads of the sensor may be in the range of 0.5 cm to 2 cm. Optionally, the diameter of the pads may be from 0.5 cm to 0.75 cm, 0.5 cm to 1.0 cm, 0.5 cm to 1.25 cm, 0.5 cm to 1.5 cm, 0.5 cm to 1.75 cm, 0.5 cm to 2.0 cm, 1.0 cm to 1.25 cm, 1.0 cm to 1.5 cm, 1.0 cm to 1.75 cm, 1.0 cm to 2.0 cm, 1.5 cm to 1.75 cm or 1.5 cm to 2 cm.

[0041] The sensor device may be used for early detection of foot or toe abnormalities and diseases by virtue of the difference in temperature of one region of the foot or toe compared to another region of the same foot or toe. When the foot or toe exhibits an abnormality or is diseased, the sensor device will detect a temperature that is higher / lower in the abnormal / diseased region compared to a region of the foot or toe that does not have an abnormality or disease. The reading will be indicated by colour and digitally processed to give the user an accurate result. The sensor device is appropriate for home use as well as in the clinic. It is advised that the sensor device is not used when the body temperature may be naturally elevated, for example following exercise or sunbathing. The temperature-responsive substance may be configured to change the state in response to temperature variations within a range of 27°C to 38°C. The sensor device is wireless and may comprise a thermochromic film that contains state-changing substances that display a colour corresponding to a temperature within the temperature range 32-36°C. The thermochromic film may be sensitive from 27°C. The thermochromic film may be sensitive from 38°C. When in use, the sensor device may be in contact with the toe. The colour change is visible on the thermochromic film and can be viewed through the first layer of the device. An image of the colour map displayed on the thermochromic film can be captured by a camera. The at least one camera is communicably coupled to at least one processor which assigns values to the pixels of the image and thus determines the temperature of the different regions of the foot. The results are processed and will be available to the user via the display unit.The sensor device may cover the underside of the toe. The sensor device may not cover the entire foot. The sensor device may be available in a range of sizes. The device may be available as patches.

[0042] It will be appreciated that the sensor device may be reusable. Moreover, the sensor device can withstand mild soap solutions and medical grade detergents, so it can be easily cleaned and re-used. Optionally, the sensor device layers may be thin, flexible, contoured and in a form of a circle or oval.

[0043] When in use, the sensor device can be held in place on the surface of the foot.

[0044] For comfort, the sensor device will be made from a soft flexible material that will be a poor conductor of heat so that heat is not conducted away from the thermochromic film and the colour change is retained for longer. The term "flexible" refers to a material that can bend or compress without breaking. The user may use the sensor device sitting or lying down. The sensor device may be applied to the foot for up to 15 mins.

[0045] The second side of the first layer is not in contact with the skin and may display a logo, a marketing brand name or a design. The second side of the first layer may be composed of a soft material that may display a logo, a marketing brand name, a design and / or a protective covering. The second side of the first layer of the sensor device does not cause a temperature change when touched. A temperature reading is only obtained from the surface of the sensor device in contact with the skin. When in use, the temperature map can be viewed on the outer surface of the sensor device. Thus a professional, such as a doctor, nurse, technician does not need to apply a further processing step in order to interpret the result.

[0046] The material (such as a cotton, a polymer, a polyester) that is soft, flexible, prevents rashes and has properties which makes the sensor device comfortable for the user to apply to the skin. The material couldbe foam-backed or in a silicon mould for added comfort. The material could be made of foil pads with a soft flexible foam backing. The flexible material will such that does not wrinkle, fold or break. The material may be a polymer substrate material which offers flexibility, thermal stability and chemical resistance. Examples of such polymer substrate material may include, but are not limited to, Biaxially Oriented Polypropylene (BOPP), Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET), polyethylene (PE), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and Polyimide (PI).

[0047] The thermochromic film senses the temperatures of the different regions of the foot and registers an observable temperature as a colour map. The thermochromic film comprises a temperature-responsive substance which rapidly and accurately changes state in response to a change in the temperature of the given area of the foot. A change in state will correspond to a colour by virtue of the presence of an organic compound such as a dye or the chemical properties of the temperature-responsive substance itself. The organic compound selected will be one whereby the change in state does not have to be complete before an accurate reading can be taken. The sensor device comprises the thermochromic film layer or multiple sections of the thermochromic film arranged in a layer.

[0048] The thermochromic film may display two colours: yellow could be within the normal temperature range and red could be higher than the normal temperature range, which would be indicative of an anomaly. The thermochromic film may display 4 colours, with a gradient from yellow to red indicating upper and lower temperature ranges. Optionally, the thermochromic film may display more than 4 colours to allow for more precise temperature determination.

[0049] The thermochromic film or sheet may consist of a plastic film (substrate) with an adhesive on one side and a thermochromic ink on the other side. The ink coating is protected by a clear plastic film. When not in direct contact with a heat source, the film is a dark colour, such as black, butthe colour may be displayed from 27°C. The thermochromic film will be applied to a transparent plastic or acrylic material that is a poor conductor of heat, so that any heat applied to the film will not be conducted away. When the heat source is removed, the colours on the film remain.

[0050] The thermally responsive materials or the temperature responsive substance may be a thermosensitive fluid or a thermosensitive compound. The thermosensitive fluid could be a liquid substance or a wax substance that undergoes a change in a physical property based on the different temperatures of different regions of the foot. The thermosensitive fluid could be, but not limited to, a thermosensitive ink or a thermosensitive pigment. The temperature-sensitive element may be a thermochromic ink, which could be a dark colour, for example black, when the sensor device is not in use, provided that the ambient temperature is lower than or close to (for example within 1°C) of the lower limit of the range of operation of the temperature-sensitive material.

[0051] The thermosensitive compound could be a liquid substance, a powder substance or a solid substance (such as a wax substance), that undergoes changes in physical properties in a similar manner as the thermosensitive fluid. The thermosensitive compound could be, but not limited to, a crystalline organic compound, encapsulated cholesteric liquid crystals, N-phenylbenzylamine, Bromo-p-Xylene, Tetradecanol or a thermochromic compound.

[0052] The thermochromic compound could be a wax formulation (non-reversible wax melt temperature marker) that has a specific melting point and is blended with a colour-changing pigment such that when the temperature rises, the formulation changes from a solid to liquid and causes the pigment to change colour. This colour change can indicate when a maximum temperature has been reached or exceeded.Optionally, the temperature responsive substances may be solid solutions of halogenated nitrobenzenes such as ortho-chlorinitrobenzene and ortho-bromonitrobenzene. Moreover, the temperature sensitive substances change their composition or physical state in response to heat. For instance, the temperature sensitive substance could change from an opaque solid to a translucent liquid which thereby allows the visual observation of the temperature. As an additive, the temperature-responsive substance may contain an organic compound such as a dye (for example methyl violet), dibenzyl succinate, phenyl salicate and dibenzyl which is stable over long periods of time, soluble in the temperature-responsive substance and responsive to a change in the physical state of said substance. The change in state corresponds to the known melting points of the temperature-responsive substances. The heat required for a change in state may be minimal. Furthermore, certain organic compounds may have a lower melting point than the temperature-responsive substances with which they are combined and thus upon heating, the generation of additional liquid from an organic compound can facilitate the visual detection of the temperature corresponding to the change of state of the temperature-responsive substance. This decreases the time required for visual detection of the temperature of the region of the foot. When the organic compound is a dye, only dyes such as oil-soluble dyes that do not adversely affect the melting ranges of the temperature-responsive substances may be used. Visual detection of any colour may be enhanced by the addition of cationic surfactants such as fatty acid nitrogen derivatives, non-ionic surfactants such as polyethyleneoxy derivatives and anionic surfactants such as sodium salts of fatty acids and their esters, and compounds which react exothermically with the temperature responsive substances.

[0053] The temperature sensitive substance could be liquid crystals comprising liquid crystal molecules, wherein the alignment of the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal material changes based on differenttemperatures of different regions of the foot. The liquid crystal materials which are highly sensitive to temperature changes are suitable for use. For example, the liquid crystal material may react to 0.1°C change in temperature.

[0054] The temperature-sensitive substance could be cholesteric liquid crystalline formulations that display a colour indicative of a defined temperature range. Cholesteric liquid crystals contain cholesteric esters such as cholesteryl pelargonate, cholesteryl chloride, oleyl cholesteryl carbonate, and all have colour-changing properties. For clarity, multiple, pre-defined cholesteric liquid crystalline formulations with different temperature and time-dependent properties, capable of transitioning into a glass state can be employed to display a temperature-dependent colour range. Once a cholesteric liquid crystalline formulation has changed into a glass state and a colour is displayed then the original colour cannot be restored without inducing the formulation to change back to a liquid state. Optionally, the cholesteric liquid crystalline formulations can be employed that indicate when the maximum temperature (thermokinetic limit) of the foot has been exceeded. The term thermokinetic limit refers to a function of temperature and time and relates to the highest temperature at which the cholesteric liquid crystalline formulations will decompose and change their physical state and thus display a colour within the sensor device. Each cholesteric liquid crystalline formulation will have its own maximum temperature, known as the glass-transition temperature range. Depending on the temperature threshold of each of the cholesteric liquid crystalline formulations, the physical state of the liquid crystals will change to either a pseudo-irreversible or irreversible phase of the glass phase.

[0055] The temperature-sensitive element can be an adapted thermometer where a change in temperature of a thermally responsive material or temperature-responsive substance (for example solid solutions ofhalogenated nitrobenzenes, or an organic compound that is easy to manufacture and is able to change its physical state) within the thermometer device can be reversible or irreversible. The thermometer device will have one or more region which contains one or more temperature-responsive substance. The outside carrier of the temperature-responsive substance may be made from a heat-conducting material (such as aluminium or alloys thereof, copper, silver, gold, stainless steel or other heat-conductive materials) to allow rapid heat transfer from the area of the foot to the temperature-responsive substance and provide uniform temperature distribution throughout the thermometer when placed on a given area of the foot. The outside carrier of the temperature-responsive substance must have a relatively large surface area of contact with the region of the foot and must be of a minimum thickness, but of a thickness that is adequate to preserve the structural integrity to allow rapid conduction of heat into the temperature responsive substance. Optionally, the temperature sensitive element can be a thermometer as outlined above which is disposable.

[0056] The temperature sensitive element can be an irreversible sensor, such as an adapted thermometric device with a memory feature that contains the cholesteric liquid crystalline formulations that display colours indicative of a defined temperature range. The irreversible sensor may contain wax formulations or the cholesteric liquid crystalline formulations that indicate when the maximum temperature (thermokinetic limit) of the foot has been exceeded. When the device is in use, multiple wax or the cholesteric liquid crystalline formulations will be employed to cover a pre-defined temperature range (from 25°C to 40°C for example, or a wider range), to be able to detect temperatures across regions of the foot. The wax or cholesteric liquid crystalline formulations employed will detect temperatures within 0.5°C of a defined range. This colours of the wax or cholesteric liquid crystalline formulations is irreversible by cooling which allows for the temperature detected by the indicator to beinspected / viewed at a later time until reset. The formulation of the wax or thermochromic liquid crystals will contain additives to increase the time that the colour map is visible on the temperature pads following removal from the heat source. Example additives include PVA and chiral molecules. For PVA, an additional substance is needed that allows PVA to remain liquid at high and cold temperatures alike.

[0057] The sensor can be a removable strip and that can be replaced between uses. A thermally responsive substance can be coated onto the indicator strip which can be adhered to the device. Optionally, the irreversible sensors can have applications outside the temperature-sensitive device, and can be used on food packaging, packaging of medical / laboratory solutions or storage containers for biological entities (such as blood, organs and antibodies) for instance.

[0058] The surface in contact with the foot may have a non-harmful adhesive outer layer. The non-harmful adhesive outer layer may be composed of an acrylic or silicon compound. The adhesive layer may be cleaned with a water and soap solution or medical grade detergent after use and will remain adhesive to allow for re-use. The adhesive layer may have a peelable outer layer that protects the adhesive layer from sticking to surfaces for which the device is not intended for use (such as body parts other than the foot, packaging, storage aids and any non-human organisms) and to prevent debris (such as air borne components such as dust and fibres and non-visible and microscopic entities such as bacteria and viruses) sticking to the surface when not in use.

[0059] Alternatively, a non-harmful adhesive layer may be applied to the surface of the foot to allow the device to stick to the surface of the foot. Options may include, but are not limited to, a medical-grade adhesive, a liquid bandage adhesive, and an acrylic adhesive.

[0060] The surface in contact with the foot may have a non-adhesive, but nonslip outer layer on the soft outer layer of the soft foam pad to allow forsecure and direct contact with the foot outer skin layer. The nonadhesive, but non-slip outer layer may be rubber or a PVC foam. The non-adhesive, but non-slip outer layer may be cleaned with a water and soap solution or medical grade detergent after use and will remain adhesive to allow for re-use. The adhesive layer may have a peelable layer that protects the adhesive layer from sticking to surfaces for which the device is not intended for use (such as body parts other than the foot, packaging, storage aids and any non-human organisms) and to prevent debris (such as air borne components such as dust and fibres and non-visible and microscopic entities such as bacteria and viruses) sticking to the surface when not in use.

[0061] The at least one camera captures one or more images of the thermochromic film. The at least one camera could be a Red-Green-Blue (RGB) camera or a grayscale camera. An image is captured within the given time which may lie in a range of 0-15 minutes. The given time is determined based upon the temperature-sensitive element in the sensor device.

[0062] The processor implements the method for determining the differences in temperature of regions of the foot. The processor identifies, the image segment representing the temperature-sensitive element and analyses it for variations in colour (i.e., a colour gradient). The processor identifies the image segment by employing an image processing algorithm. The a given image processing algorithm could be an object identification algorithm or a feature detection algorithm. Post image segment identification, the processor is configured to recognize pixel values of pixels in the image segment. The colour information may be indicative of the colour gradient, which may be predefined and calibrated for differences in temperature of the foot. Calibration can depend on the temperature-sensitive material. The colour information may be expressed as Red-Green-Blue (RGB) colour component values, grayscale values, or similar.The processor is a computational element that responds to and processes instructions. The processor may be one or more individual processors, processing devices and various elements associated with a processing device that may be shared by other processing devices. Such processors, processing devices and elements may be arranged in various architectures for responding to and executing the steps of the temperature measurement method.

[0063] The processor is communicably coupled to the at least one camera at least one camera and could receive the image from the at least one camera as a video, image or live stream. Preferably, the processor is communicatively coupled to the at least one camera via a communication network. The communication network may be wired, wireless, or a combination thereof. The communication network could be an individual network or a combination of multiple networks. Examples of the communication network may include, but are not limited to, the Internet, a local network (such as, a TCP / IP-based network, an Ethernet-based local area network, an Ethernet-based personal area network, a Wi-Fi network, and the like), Wide Area Networks (WANs), Metropolitan Area Networks (MANs), a telecommunication network, and a short-range radio network (such as Bluetooth®).

[0064] The temperature-sensitive element displays a visual colour upon contact with the foot. The at least one camera takes an image and feeds this to the at least one processor to assign a temperature measurement to the colours displayed across said region.

[0065] The processor is configured to execute a software application for implementing the processing task through a singular device, such as the user's smartphone. The software application could be a single software application or multiple software applications. The software application may be implemented as an application for a mobile device such as, but not limited to, a smartphone. The software application reads andinterprets results from the image taken by the at least one camera in the sensor device. The image captured has pixels of varying pixel values. Such interpretation may be made via the comparison of the value (i.e., the colour) of a particular pixel or groups of pixels in the image with the expected pixel value (i.e., colour) that represents the temperature of the foot. Such interpretation can be made by mapping each pixel of the image to identify its value, and based on the calibration of the temperaturesensitive material, the corresponding temperature of a particular pixel value is retrieved by virtue of the corresponding colour. The temperature which corresponds to the pixel value is assigned, creating a map of the temperature distribution of the foot.

[0066] The software identifies lower and higher temperature boundaries within a region by reading the corresponding pixel values within a given range. The temperature threshold value could lie in a range of 35°C to 38°C. For example, values with a temperature difference lower than a fraction of a °C, but not including 0°C (for example, 0.25°C, 0.5°C, 0.75°C), or values up to but not including 2°C (for example 1.25°C, 1.5°C, 1.75°C) may be considered lower and higher temperature boundaries within the same region. This depends on a previous calibration of the software. Such calibration may be added as a strip adhered to the sensor device (for example adhered by glue) or directly printed on to the device (for example at an edge). Once the different the temperature thresholds of the regions of the foot are established, the software can indicate whether a region within the foot is of a higher temperature, and therefore is an indication of a potential anomaly. For example, this may be a region of a relatively higher concentration of pixels in a colour map (i.e., temperature map) with a relative temperature difference from neighbouring regions of 1°C or 1.5°C.

[0067] The temperature sensitive device is to be used according to certain instructions for enabling accurate measurements. These instructions relate to the removal of the packaging, the required operatingtemperature, the manner in which the sensor device is to be placed on the foot, how to hold the temperature sensitive device when in use, the optimal body posture of the user when using the temperature sensitive device, and how to remove the temperature sensitive device after the use.

[0068] The digital display unit on the device may be configured to display the device operational instructions. The range of thermal sensitivity of the temperature-sensitive material may affect the operating temperature range of the sensor device. The operating temperature could lie in the operating temperature range of 29°C to 41°C.

[0069] To achieve a predefined efficiency of the temperature-sensitive device, the user may be instructed to store the temperature-sensitive device in a refrigerator, at a room temperature below 26°C and away from any source of heat including heat generating lights in order to achieve an optimum performance by the temperature-sensitive material.

[0070] The predefined temperature range for storing the temperature-sensitive device is stored in the memory of the sensor device, such that a performance of the temperature-sensitive device does not deteriorate. The predefined temperature range could lie within a range of 4°C to 12°C. The system provides a kit for detecting abnormalities in the foot of the user by determining the differences in temperature within the foot. The system is an early detection system that is safe, reliable, economical, accurate, and easier to use than conventional systems. The system may be effectively used to routinely check for abnormalities in the foot and it is intended to be used as an adjunct to other procedures, including established procedures, for the detection of diseases. The system can be efficiently used by users of all ages.

[0071] The system can use a software application to measure the different temperatures of regions of the foot. The system can transmit the temperature from the foot region to the software application. Thesoftware application significantly increases the accuracy and consistency of measurements obtained using the temperature-sensitive device and provides an interactive and / or easy to use platform for the user to view results.

[0072] The processor may also be further configured to determine whether a temperature of the given region of the foot exceeds a predefined temperature threshold value amongst the different regions of the foot and generate a thermal map of the foot, wherein the thermal map indicates any region whose temperature exceeds the predefined temperature threshold value. When the temperature of said region exceeds a predefined temperature threshold value, that could indicate an abnormality.

[0073] The thermal map would represent the temperature profile of different regions of the foot. The thermal map could be a colour map or a grayscale map. A technical benefit of a thermal map is that the results generated by the sensor device are presented in a form, which can be accurately read and understood.

[0074] The system may further comprise a user device communicably coupled to the processor, wherein the processor is further configured to send to the user device the temperatures of the different regions of the foot and a thermal map of the foot for the presentation on the user device. A user interface (III) is rendered on the display of the user device in order to view the results, such that the user can easily and accurately view the results. Examples of a given user device include, but are not limited to, a smartphone, a smartwatch, a tablet computer, a laptop computer, a desktop computer, an infotainment device, and a personal digital assistant. The processor sends the temperatures of the different regions of the foot to the user's device. On the III rendered on the display, the temperatures of the different regions of the foot may be visually represented in the form of a table, a histogram, a schematic and / or aheat map. Further, the processor sends the thermal map and the temperatures measured by the temperature measuring device to the user device.

[0075] A user device (such as a mobile phone) equipped with the at least one camera can be used to read the temperatures of different regions of the foot by taking a picture of the temperature-sensitive element of the temperature-sensitive device. The mobile phone will also allow the user to view the temperatures determined upon processing. The processor of the user's device may be employed for the processing. In such a case, a single user's device may be beneficially used for implementing the at least one camera as well as the processor of the system. The technical advantage of this is that the results obtained by the system can be efficiently captured and viewed using the user's device making the system of the present disclosure very compact and easy to use.

[0076] The sensor device may further comprise a fourth layer provided on the second side of the first layer, wherein the fourth layer comprises a unique identifier. Herein, the term "fourth layer" refers to an identification layer. The at least one camera is configured to capture an image representing the unique identifier, wherein the processor may be configured to identify the unique identifier in the image, associate the temperatures of different regions of the foot that are assigned with the unique identifier.

[0077] The unique identifier could be any of a quick response (QR) code, an alphanumeric code, a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) marker or a noise pattern. The at least one camera captures the image to be labelled with a unique identifier. The image labelled with the unique identifier is received by the processor via the communication network. The processor identifies the image to be labelled with a unique identifier using a feature recognition algorithm.

[0078] The processor of the temperature sensitive device can associate the unique identifiers with the temperatures of different regions of the foot.The processor can also record the uses of the unique identifier. The unique identifier could also be used to ensure a condition of the sensor device prior to use. The processor can only interpret temperatures of different regions of the foot which are associated with the unique identifier. Further, the processor permits future interpretation of sensed temperatures upon successful reuse actions being performed. The reuse actions could be performed by the user. The processor may associate data with a new unique identifier and allow interpretation of the temperatures. The processor may allow the reuse of the sensor device only after a reuse action of a predefined check or confirmations is / are made by the user. The unique identifier on the temperature-sensitive device is associated with the measurement obtained using the temperature-sensitive device.

[0079] The processor may be further configured to process the given image labelled with a unique identifier to determine the usage parameters, wherein the usage parameters include the number of times the temperature-sensitive device has been used, the remaining number of times that the temperature-sensitive device may be used, the total number of times the temperature sensitive device can be used, the predefined temperature range for storing the temperature sensitive device when not in use, the time within which the temperature sensitive device can be used, and associate the usage parameter with the unique identifier.

[0080] The processor may provide historical data to the user in the form of the number of times the temperature sensitive device has been used, and the total number of times that the temperature sensitive device can be used.

[0081] From the image taken of the foot, the processor may be configured to identify features of the foot, digitally superimpose a virtual object on the image of the foot to enable correct placement of the temperaturesensitive device on the foot and send the foot image with the virtual object superimposed thereon to a user device for display.

[0082] The processor may be configured to identify the features of the foot using a feature detection algorithm. The features could be edges, shapes, sizes and / or colours of different regions. A given feature detection algorithm may be an edge-detection algorithm, a corner-detection algorithm, a blob-detection algorithm, a feature descriptor algorithm. The processor could be configured to digitally superimpose the virtual object on the different regions of the foot as required. The virtual object could be a computer-generated object used to indicate different features of the foot. The virtual object could be a geometric shape, an arrow, a pattern, or similar, that enables correct placement of the sensor device on the foot. The foot image superimposed with the virtual object could be an augmented reality image. In this case, the processor would send the augmented reality image to the user device. The technical benefit of this is that the augmented reality image is utilised to provide the accurate positioning of the sensor device on the foot to improve the efficiency and accuracy of the results.

[0083] The temperature-sensitive device may be used on two feet. In this case, the at least one processor is configured to compare temperatures between a left foot and a right foot, to determine the temperature differences, and to indicate a potential abnormality when the temperature difference exceeds a predefined threshold within a range of 0.2 to 3.0°C. When the temperature difference exceeds the predefined difference, the processor may be configured to indicate the possibility of an abnormality. The predefined difference could lie within a range of 0.5 to 2.5°C. The temperature difference could exceed the predefined threshold within the range of 0.2 to 3.0°C.

[0084] The present disclosure also relates to the system for determining temperatures in a foot as described above. Various embodiments andvariants disclosed above, with respect to the aforementioned temperature-sensitive device, apply mutatis mutandis to the system for determining temperatures in a foot.

[0085] The present disclosure also relates to the method for determining temperatures in different regions of a given body part, wherein a given body part may be a foot as described above. Various embodiments and variants disclosed above, with respect to the aforementioned system for determining temperatures in a foot, apply mutatis mutandis to the method for determining temperatures in a foot.

[0086] The method is easy to implement, provides fast indicative results, and does not require complex or expensive equipment. Furthermore, there is no complexity in the use and there are no harmful effects.

[0087] The method further comprises:

[0088] determining whether a temperature of said region exceeds a predefined temperature threshold value for each region amongst the different regions of the given body part; and

[0089] generating a thermal map of the given body part based on the temperature profile of the given body part, wherein the thermal map indicates any region whose temperature exceeds the predefined temperature threshold value.

[0090] The present disclosure also relates to the computer-readable storage medium as described above. Various embodiments and variants disclosed above, with respect to the aforementioned sensor device, the aforementioned system and, the aforementioned method, apply mutatis mutandis to the computer-readable storage medium.

[0091] The term "computer-readable storage medium" as used herein refers to a non-transitory machine-readable data storage medium upon which a software product comprising program instructions are stored. Examples of the non-transitory machine-readable data storage medium includes,but are not limited to, an electronic storage device, a magnetic storage device, an optical storage device, an electromagnetic storage device, a semiconductor storage device, a portable computer diskette, a hard disk, a random access memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM or Flash memory), a static random access memory (SRAM), a portable compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), a digital versatile disk, a memory stick, a floppy disk, a mechanically encoded device such as punch-cards or raised structures in a groove having instructions recorded thereon, or any suitable combination thereof.

[0092] The program instructions stored on the non-transitory machine-readable data storage medium can direct the processing device to function in a particular manner, such that the processing device executes processing steps for remotely monitoring a plurality of sub-systems.

[0093] The term "processing arrangement" as used herein refers to a device that is capable of processing the program instructions of the computer program product. Optionally, the processing device is implemented as a part of the at least one user device. The processing device may, for example, be a microprocessor, a microcontroller, a processing unit, or similar. Notably the processing arrangement may be the processor of the system (as described above) or associated with an external device communicably coupled to the system.

[0094] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0095] Referring to FIG. 1, illustrated is a sensor device 100 for determining temperatures in a region of a given body part, wherein the body part is at least one foot, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, the sensor device 100 comprises a first layer 102 with a first side and a second side opposite to the first side, configured to enable a visual inspection of at least one temperature-sensitive indicator 104; the at least one temperature-sensitive indicator 104,provided on the first side of the first layer 102, wherein a second layer 106 comprises at least one temperature-sensitive indicator 104; and a third layer 108 covering the second layer 106, wherein the sensor device 100 is configured to determine the temperatures of different regions of the given body part when at least partially in contact with the skin.

[0096] Referring to FIG. 2, illustrated is a system 200 for determining temperatures in a region of a given body part, wherein the body part is at least one foot, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, the system 200 comprises at least one sensor device such as 202 configured to measure a temperature in a given area of a foot; a at least one camera 204, communicably coupled to the sensor device 202, configured to capture one or more images obtained from at least one temperature-sensitive indicator; a at least one processor 206, communicably coupled to the at least one camera 204, configured to interpret the captured one or more images, wherein the at least one processor 206 is configured to execute at least one software module to: identify, in the at least one image, at least one image segment representing the at least one temperature-sensitive indicator; recognize pixel values of pixels in the at least one image segment; and determine the temperatures of different regions of the given body part, based on the pixel values of pixels in the at least one image segment to form a temperature profile of the given body part. The system 200 may further comprise a display unit 208, communicably coupled to the at least one processor 206, configured to display the temperature in the given body part.

[0097] Referring to FIG. 3, illustrated is a method for determining temperatures in a region of a given body part, wherein the body part is at least one foot, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. At step 302, at least one image of the at least one temperature-sensitive indicator of the at least one sensor device, is captured. At step 304, at least one segment in the at least one image is identified. At step 306,one or more pixel values of one or more pixels in the at least one segment is recognised. At step 308, the temperatures of different regions of the given body part are determined, based on the one or more pixel values in the at least one image segment. At step 310, a temperature profile of the given body part is generated.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A sensor device for determining temperatures of different regions of a given body part, the sensor device comprising:a first layer with a first side and a second side opposite to the first side;a second layer arranged on the first side of the first layer, the second side comprising at least one temperature-sensitive indicator,wherein a temperature-sensitive indicator comprises cholesteric liquid crystalline formulations,wherein the cholesteric liquid crystalline formulations display colours corresponding to a temperature range, wherein colours remain following removal from the surface,a third layer covering the second layer,wherein the third layer is configured to protect the second layer from environmental and mechanical impacts to maintain the integrity of the second layer,wherein the sensor device is a pad with a diameter in the range of 0.5 cm to 2 cm; andwherein the sensor device is configured to determine temperatures of different regions of the given body part when at least partially in contact with the given body part.

2. A sensor device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the first layer, the second layer and the third layer are thin, flexible, contoured and in a form of at least one of: a circle or oval.

3. A sensor device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the contact is made to the region of the body part by an adhesive or nonadhesive means.

4. A sensor device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the second side of the first layer does not cause a temperature change when touched or in contact with an external heat source.

5. A sensor device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one temperature-sensitive indicator is sensitive for a 27°C to 38°C temperature range.

6. A sensor device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the cholesteric liquid crystalline formulations display colours that remain for up to 120 seconds following removal of the sensor device from the given body part.

7. A sensor device according to any of the preceding claims, further comprising a fourth layer provided on the second side of the first layer, wherein the fourth layer comprises a unique identifier.

8. A sensor device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the body part is at least one foot.

9. A sensor device according to any of the preceding claims wherein the pads are to be placed under each toe of the at least one foot.

10. A system for determining temperatures in a given region of a given body part, the system comprising:at least one sensor device of claims 1-9;at least one camera, communicably coupled to the sensor device, configured to capture one or more images obtained from at least one temperature-sensitive indicator;at least one processor, communicably coupled to the at least one camera, wherein the at least one processor is configured to execute at least one software module to:identify, in the at least one image, at least one image segment representing the at least one temperature-sensitive indicator;recognize pixel values of pixels in the at least one image segment; anddetermine the temperatures of different regions of the given body part, based on the pixel values of pixels in the at least one image segment to form a temperature profile of the given body part. generate a thermal map of the given body part based on the temperature profile of the given body part, wherein the thermal map indicates any region whose temperature exceeds the predefined temperature threshold value; andsend to the at least one user device, at least one of: the temperatures of different regions of the given body part and a thermal map of the given body part for presentation on the at least one user device.

11. A system according to claim 10, wherein the at least one camera being configured to capture at least one identification image representing a unique identifier of a fourth layer, wherein the at least one processor is configured to:identify the unique identifier in the at least one identification image; andassociate the temperatures of different regions of the given body part with the unique identifier.

12. A system according to claim 10, wherein the at least one processor is further configured to process the at least one identification image to:determine at least one usage parameter associated with the use of the at least one sensor device, wherein the at least one usage parameter is selected from at least one of: a given body part for use, a total number of uses, a number of current uses, a remaining number of uses, a predefined temperature range for storing the at least one sensor device when not in use, a time period of use; andassociate the at least one usage parameter with the unique identifier.

13. A system according to any of the claims 10 to 12, wherein the at least one camera is configured to capture at least one given body part image of the user, wherein the at least one processor is further configured to:identify features of the given body part that are represented in the at least one body image;digitally superimpose at least one virtual object on the at least one given body part image for enabling correct placement of the at least one sensor device on the given body part; andsend the at least one given body part image having the at least one virtual object superimposed thereon to the at least one user device for display thereat.

14. A method for determining a temperature in a region of a given body part, the method comprising:capturing at least one image of the at least one temperaturesensitive indicator of the at least one sensor device, wherein the at least one image is captured within a given time;identifying in the at least one image, at least one segment representing the at least one temperature-sensitive indicator; recognizing one or more pixel values of one or more pixels in the at least one segment; anddetermining the temperatures of different regions of the given body part, based on the one or more pixel values in the at least one image segment; andgenerating a temperature profile of the given body part.

15. A computer-readable storage medium comprising at least one software application comprising instructions for determiningtemperatures in a given body part, which when executed by a processor, causes the processor to execute steps of a method of claim 14.

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