Proximity Sensing of User Physiologic Parameters

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current systems lack the capability for accurate, continuous, and remote sensing and communication of a user's physiologic parameters while in proximity to specific objects, limiting the understanding of individual responses to various objects.

Innovation Solution

A system and method for automated, accurate, and relevant sensing and communication of physiologic parameters using wireless communication devices and sensors to collect and analyze data during proximity to objects, enabling seamless monitoring and data processing for better understanding and utilization of objects.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If traditional surveying and data collection techniques are used, then user input can be obtained, but the data is consciously or subconsciously influenced or biased and not reflective of the individual's real feelings or behaviors

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccuracy of physiologic dataVSAvoidobjectivity of user input
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical surveying methods with automated sensor-based detection systems. Sensors (optical, electrical, magnetic, acoustic) objectively measure physiologic parameters without human intervention, eliminating the bias inherent in self-reported data while providing precise, reliable measurements of actual user responses to objects.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Reliability

If automated sensing of physiologic parameters is implemented, then objective data can be collected, but the system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveobjectivity of physiologic dataVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs a multi-functional sensing system where a single integrated device can detect multiple physiologic parameters (heart rate, respiration, body temperature, movement) using different sensor types. This universal approach consolidates what would otherwise require multiple separate systems, reducing overall complexity while maintaining objective data collection capabilities.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The sensing system operates automatically without requiring user participation or awareness. The device self-monitors physiologic parameters and transmits data without user input, eliminating the complexity of user interaction interfaces while maintaining reliable, objective measurement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Duration of action of moving object

If continuous monitoring of physiologic parameters is performed, then complete data can be collected, but energy consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemonitoring durationVSAvoidenergy consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
Duration of action of moving objectVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements periodic sampling of physiologic data at predetermined time intervals rather than continuous monitoring. This approach collects complete data over the required duration while significantly reducing energy consumption by keeping sensors in low-power states between sampling events, balancing data completeness with energy efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

Data Source

PatentUS9386401B2Proximity-based sensing, communicating, and processing of user physiologic information
Publication Date: 2016.07.05 PHYZIO INC
  • US9386401B2 patent drawing
  • US9386401B2 patent drawing
  • US9386401B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention relates to systems and methods that sense, communicate and process one or more of a user's physiologic parameters, such as during a time when the user is in proximity with an object of interest. Objects may be products, locations and other people. One embodiment of the present invention enables users, designers, manufacturers, marketers and sellers to secure valuable information about how an object is (or many object are) perceived and used by a user (or many users). Various embodiments of the present invention may be used in conjunction with smart objects (e.g., Internet-connected objects) and dumb objects (e.g., objects having no Internet or other network connection).