On-body Sensor Localization via Body Channel Fingerprinting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current on-body sensor systems face challenges in accurately and uniquely localizing sensor elements on the body, particularly for non-clinical users, due to restrictive positioning methods that require precise alignment within a limited range, making it difficult for patients or caregivers to correctly place sensors without medical training.
Innovation Solution
An on-body or handheld sensor system comprising at least two skin interface units, a transmitter, and a receiver, with a controller that derives a unique 'body channel fingerprint' by comparing signal characteristics to pre-determined sets, allowing for precise localization and orientation of the receiver unit, and providing guidance for accurate placement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional positioning methods are used, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes the parameter of signal frequency to high frequencies (e.g., ultrasonic or electromagnetic) to enable precise localization through frequency-dependent signal propagation characteristics. This allows accurate position determination by analyzing how high-frequency signals travel through and reflect off body tissues, achieving millimeter-level precision without complex mechanical positioning mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical positioning systems with electromagnetic or acoustic field-based localization. Instead of using complex mechanical alignment mechanisms, the system uses wireless signal transmission through the body to determine sensor position, eliminating moving parts and mechanical complexity while achieving superior precision.
2Measurement precision
If restrictive positioning methods are used, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides self-aligning capabilities through real-time feedback to the user. The sensor automatically determines its own position relative to anatomical landmarks using signal propagation analysis, and guides the user through visual or haptic feedback until optimal placement is achieved. This eliminates the need for complex alignment procedures while maintaining high precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements continuous feedback mechanisms where the system monitors signal characteristics and provides real-time guidance to the user for adjusting sensor position. The feedback loop analyzes signal strength, phase, and reflection patterns to indicate whether the sensor is correctly positioned, allowing non-expert users to achieve accurate placement through intuitive guidance.
3Ease of operation
If broad positioning ranges are allowed, then ease of operation is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from two-dimensional surface positioning to three-dimensional volumetric localization by analyzing signal propagation through body tissues. By measuring signal characteristics at multiple frequencies and angles, the system can determine precise depth and spatial position, maintaining accuracy even when sensors are placed across a broader range of locations on the body surface.
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 accurate and unique localization of sensor elements, improving the reliability of physiological parameter monitoring by allowing broader positioning ranges and reducing the need for fine adjustments, even for users with limited dexterity or vision.
Implementation Method 1
measured by generating and capacitively coupling an electrical signal having a known frequency and amplitude at one point on the human body
Implementation Method 2
Due to the phase delay inherent in propagating the high frequency AC signal through the body, a phase difference may be observed between pairs of electrodes
Implementation Method 3
The Human Body Characteristics as a Signal Transmission Medium for Intrabody Communication
Data Source
AI summary
An on-body sensor system (30) comprises means for determining a position of a skin interface unit (34) based on transmission and receipt of electrical signals to the unit from a known transmitter (32) location, transmitted via electrical channels of the body. By comparing sensed signal characteristics of the received signals with a plurality of sets of pre-determined signal characteristics, each set associated with one of a plurality of different reference positions and/or orientations of the receiver (34) on the body, it is possible to derive an indication of the position of the receiver unit on the body.