Ear Optical Sensor Layout for Deep, Precise Vital Parameter Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for detecting vital parameters in the ear, such as ear thermometers, provide limited accuracy and diversity in health assessment, particularly for hypothermic individuals.
Innovation Solution
A device with an optical sensor comprising a radiation source and detector arranged side by side on a PCB, positioned deep in the ear canal, and a temperature sensor, designed for precise detection of vital parameters like core body temperature and oxygen saturation, using specific wavelength ranges and a compact, elongated insertion portion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the radiation source and radiation detector are arranged side by side on a PCB, then the optical sensor device can be positioned very deep in the ear canal close to the tympanic membrane, but the device requires a compact design that limits component separation
Solution Approach 1:
The radiation source and radiation detector are merged into a single planar arrangement on a PCB substrate, positioned side by side in the same orientation. This combining approach enables both components to be integrated into a compact optical sensor device that can be positioned deep in the ear canal, achieving both measurement precision and compact design.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from traditional linear or stacked arrangements of optical components to a planar two-dimensional arrangement on a PCB. By positioning the radiation source and detector side by side on the same surface, the design achieves compactness in the longitudinal direction while maintaining effective optical path separation through the radiation barrier.
2Measurement precision
If a radiation barrier is formed between the radiation source and radiation detector, then direct illumination of the detector by the source is prevented improving measurement accuracy, but the device structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
A radiation barrier is introduced as an intermediary element positioned between the radiation source and radiation detector. This barrier prevents direct illumination of the detector by the source while allowing the device to maintain a relatively simple overall structure through integration on a common PCB substrate.
3Measurement precision
If the optical sensor device is positioned deep in the ear canal near the tympanic membrane, then vital parameters are detected with high precision, but the insertion portion must be elongated and precisely dimensioned
Solution Approach 1:
The elongated insertion portion is pre-configured with the optical sensor device positioned at a specific depth within its structure. This preliminary positioning ensures that when the device is inserted into the ear canal, the sensors are automatically placed at the optimal location near the tympanic membrane for high-precision detection, eliminating the need for complex adjustment mechanisms.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables highly accurate detection of vital parameters by positioning sensors close to the tympanic membrane, allowing for rapid and precise measurement of core body temperature and other parameters.
Implementation Method 1
the radiation emitted by the radiation source is very well reflected by the tympanic membrane and the structures behind it, so that the vital parameters can be detected very accurately
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a device (1) for detecting at least two vital parameters. This device comprises:an optical sensor device (2) for detecting at least one vital parameter of a living being (4), wherein the optical sensor device (2) comprises a radiation source (6) for emitting radiation (7) and a radiation detector (8) for detecting radiation (7), wherein the radiation source (6) and the radiation detector (8) are arranged next to one another,an elongated insertion portion (12) for insertion into an ear canal (14) and for positioning the optical sensor device (2) in a portion (16) of the ear canal (14) surrounded by bone,wherein the optical sensor device (2) is arranged on the elongated insertion portion (12) or is a component thereof and wherein a temperature sensor (18) for detecting the core body temperature is arranged on the elongated insertion portion (12) or is a component thereof,an evaluation portion (20) coupled to the insertion portion (12), in particular releasably coupled, wherein the evaluation portion (20) and the optical sensor device (2) are at least temporarily, in particular in a coupled state, connected to one another in terms of signaling.(FIG. 1a)