Pocket Bioimpedance Meter with Integrated Microprocessor Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bioimpedance meters for professional use are complex, expensive, bulky, and require patients to be in a supine position, making them inconvenient and costly for regular monitoring of body composition and metabolism.
Innovation Solution
A portable, pocket-sized bioimpedance measurement apparatus with a closed box-shaped housing, integrated microprocessor control unit, and bioimpedance meter device, featuring multiple electrodes, a multi-pin connector, and a dedicated application on a portable terminal for data processing and display, allowing for easy, continuous, and affordable measurements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If professional impedance meters are used for accurate bioimpedance measurements, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the copying principle by replicating the core measurement functionality of professional impedance meters in a simplified, portable device. The pocket equipment copies the essential bioimpedance measurement capability using integrated circuits and microcontrollers, achieving sufficient precision for home use without the complexity of professional equipment. The device measures impedance through electrodes and processes the signals to provide accurate body composition analysis.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs cost-effective components and integrated circuits that replace expensive professional equipment. The device uses affordable microcontrollers, simple electrode configurations, and basic signal processing circuits to achieve reliable measurements at a fraction of the cost of professional impedance meters, making it suitable for widespread home use.
2Measurement precision
If professional impedance meters are used for accurate measurements, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by enabling users to perform bioimpedance measurements independently at home without requiring professional operators. The device includes automated measurement sequences, built-in data processing, and clear display of results, allowing users to conduct measurements themselves. The portable design and simple electrode application make the device easy to operate while maintaining measurement accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The device incorporates dynamic measurement capabilities that automatically adapt to different users and measurement conditions. The microcontroller adjusts measurement parameters, sequences, and processing algorithms based on detected signals, providing optimized measurements for each user without requiring manual configuration or professional intervention.
3Measurement precision
If professional impedance meters are used, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-programming measurement sequences, data processing algorithms, and analysis routines into the device's microcontroller. The device automatically executes optimized measurement protocols and performs real-time data processing, eliminating the need for manual setup, professional operation, and post-measurement analysis. Results are immediately displayed, providing rapid feedback for home users.
Solution Approach 2:
The device changes operational parameters dynamically during measurement, automatically adjusting frequency, amplitude, and sequence based on detected body impedance characteristics. This adaptive parameter adjustment optimizes measurement speed and accuracy without requiring professional intervention or prolonged measurement times.
4Measurement precision
If professional impedance meters are used, then measurement precision is improved, but portability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the measurement system into separate, portable components: a compact measurement device with integrated circuitry, removable electrodes, and a separate display/processing unit. This modular design allows the core measurement functionality to be contained in a pocket-sized device while maintaining measurement precision through specialized integrated circuits and microcontrollers.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces bulky mechanical and electronic components of professional impedance meters with integrated circuits, microcontrollers, and miniaturized sensors. The measurement precision is maintained through sophisticated signal processing in integrated circuits, while the physical size is reduced to pocket dimensions, enabling portability without sacrificing measurement accuracy.
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 reliable, safe, and cost-effective bioimpedance measurements that can be performed by non-professionals, providing continuous monitoring of body water balance, fat-to-lean mass ratio, and metabolism, suitable for long-term assessments, especially beneficial for patients with labile cardiac compensation and nephropathic conditions.
Implementation Method 1
measuring impedance values detected in predetermined positions of the body
Implementation Method 2
a high-frequency current produced by the generator is applied to the person
Data Source
AI summary
A pocket-sized apparatus for carrying out bioimpedance measurements at home includes: a closed box-like casing (1), which contains a printed circuit board (2), an microprocessor integrated control unit (3), and an integrated circuit bioimpedance meter device (4), interfaced to the integrated control unit (3).A plurality of electrodes (11), arranged outside said casing (1) carry electrical signals to/from the bioimpedance meter device (4); a multi-pin connector (7), secured to the printed circuit board (2) and electrically connected to the control unit (3) and the bioimpedance meter device (4), can also be connected to a dedicated charging cable.Status indicator means (8) are also provided, which are driven by the control unit (3) and visible from outside the casing (1).An application for a portable personal terminal (20) connects (10) with the control unit (3) and acquires data produced by the bioimpedance meter device (4) for display.