Multi-Point Physiological Sensor for Symmetrical Stress Response Analysis

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for measuring and evaluating physiological parameters in living subjects are limited as they typically focus on specific parameters and locations, failing to provide a comprehensive evaluation of stress responses and their impact on the body.

Innovation Solution

A method and device that measure physiological parameters at multiple contact points on the skin, establish a baseline reading, and apply external stimuli to determine whether stress responses are symmetrical or asymmetrical, categorizing them as favorable or unfavorable, using sensors and a computing source to analyze and provide feedback.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of information

If existing methods measure only specific physiological parameters at specific locations, then the measurement device remains simple and focused, but the evaluation becomes incomplete and lacks comprehensive insight into stress responses

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecomprehensive evaluation of stress responsesVSAvoidmeasurement system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the physiological measurement system into multiple independent measurement channels, each targeting specific contact points on the body. By segmenting the measurement locations (e.g., multiple acupuncture points, skin areas) and parameter types (electrical, thermal, mechanical), the system achieves comprehensive coverage while maintaining modular simplicity in each measurement unit.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates a multi-functional measurement device that can simultaneously measure multiple physiological parameters (electrical properties, temperature, moisture) at multiple contact points. This universal device replaces several single-purpose devices, providing comprehensive stress response evaluation through integrated sensing capabilities.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Loss of information

If multiple contact points are measured simultaneously, then comprehensive stress response evaluation is achieved, but the complexity of data analysis and comparison increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestress response pattern informationVSAvoiddata analysis complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent establishes baseline readings at multiple contact points before applying stressors. This preliminary measurement phase creates reference data that simplifies subsequent analysis by providing predetermined comparison points, reducing the complexity of evaluating stress responses against known pre-stress states.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements a feedback mechanism where measurements from multiple contact points are continuously compared against baseline readings. The system provides feedback on whether stress responses are symmetrical or asymmetrical, automatically categorizing results as favorable or unfavorable, thereby reducing manual analysis complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Measurement precision

If physiological measurements are taken before and after stimulus application, then stress response patterns can be identified, but the measurement process becomes more complex and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestress response pattern identificationVSAvoidmeasurement process time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs periodic measurement cycles: baseline measurement phase, stimulus application phase, and post-stressor measurement phase. This structured periodic approach organizes the complex multi-point measurements into manageable temporal segments, reducing overall process time while maintaining measurement precision for pattern identification.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

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 comprehensive evaluation of stress responses, allowing for the identification of favorable or unfavorable physiological states and providing insights for improving health conditions through targeted interventions.

Implementation Method 1

Galvanic Skin Response (GSR) devices, also known as electrodermal response (EDR), have been used to obtain biofeedback from individuals. Specifically, GSR measures the electrical resistance of the skin and interprets the measurements as an image of activity in certain parts of the body

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectGalvanic Skin Response (GSR): Electrical Resistance

Data Source

PatentUS8099159B2Methods and devices for analyzing and comparing physiological parameter measurements
Publication Date: 2012.01.17 ZYTO CORP
  • US8099159B2 patent drawing
  • US8099159B2 patent drawing
  • US8099159B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Methods and devices that are capable of measuring physiological parameters of at least two contact points and determining whether the measured parameters reflect favorable or unfavorable physiological responses are disclosed herein. Specifically, the present invention encompasses a method that can non-invasively monitor physiological parameters of at least two contact points before and after a stimulus is applied to a subject and compare the measured parameters to determine whether the physiological state of the subject is favorable or unfavorable.