Insulin Patch Pump with Photoplethysmography Module
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wearable insulin pumps lack an integrated photoplethysmography module that can effectively measure heart rate and other physiologic parameters to adjust insulin dosing, particularly during physical activity, and are prone to motion artifacts and cross-talk issues with light interference.
Innovation Solution
A patch-style insulin pump with an integrated photoplethysmographic module using a multi-chip package and a skin contact element that maintains contact during motion, incorporating a light-blocking rib to reduce cross-talk and ambient light interference, and an on-board controller for processing signals to adjust insulin delivery based on heart rate and activity levels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a photoplethysmography module is integrated into the patch pump to measure heart rate and physiologic parameters, then insulin dosing can be adjusted based on physical activity, but motion artifacts and light interference cause measurement inaccuracies
Solution Approach 1:
A light-blocking rib structure is introduced as an intermediary element between the light source and detector in the photoplethysmography module. This rib selectively blocks ambient light paths that would interfere with measurements while allowing the intended light to pass through, thereby improving measurement reliability during physical activity without sacrificing measurement precision
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary anti-action by pre-configuring the light-blocking rib structure to counteract the harmful effect of ambient light interference before it can affect the photoplethysmography measurements. This structural prevention measure is built into the device design to proactively eliminate motion-related measurement errors
2Measurement precision
If the pump adheres tightly to the skin to maintain contact during motion, then measurement accuracy is improved, but skin abrasion and pressure sores may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patch pump design applies local quality by concentrating the adhesive and contact forces only at specific localized areas where sensors need to touch the skin, rather than distributing pressure across the entire patch surface. This allows stable sensor contact for accurate measurements while leaving other areas non-adhesive to prevent skin abrasion and pressure sores
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple modules are integrated into separate patches that communicate wirelessly, then functionality is improved, but system complexity and potential failure modes increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the photoplethysmography module, insulin pump functionality, and control systems into a single integrated patch device. This consolidation eliminates the need for wireless communication between separate patches, reducing system complexity and potential failure modes while maintaining comprehensive physiologic monitoring and insulin delivery capabilities
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
The solution enables accurate and reliable insulin delivery adjustments responsive to physical activity, reducing the risk of hypoglycemia and maintaining stable blood glucose levels, while ensuring safe skin contact without abrasion or pressure sores.
Implementation Method 1
an integrated photoplethysmographic module for sensing a user's heart rate and/or other physiologic parameters
Implementation Method 2
incorporating a light-blocking rib to reduce cross-talk and ambient light interference
Data Source
AI summary
A body-worn medication delivery pump having a patch form factor is provided that includes a controller and an integrated plethysmographic module that employs a photoplethysmographic multi-chip package disposed in a skin contact element designed to maintain contact with a wearer's skin during motion, reduce contact pressure inflammation during prolonged contact, reduce crosstalk and ingress of stray light, such that the controller of the pump programmed is programmed to adjust its medication delivery algorithms responsive to outputs of the plethysmographic module.