Wearable Device SMI Sensor Distribution for Biometric Accuracy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wearable devices with concentrated sensors are limited in their ability to accurately measure biometric data from a user's body, as they can only observe a small portion of the anatomy, leading to limited extent and accuracy of data collection.
Innovation Solution
The integration of self-mixing interferometry (SMI) sensors within a wearable device's band, allowing for the distribution of sensors to measure multiple anatomical features simultaneously, such as blood vessels, muscles, and tendons, and the use of processing circuitry to identify and utilize only relevant signals for accurate biometric data determination.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If sensors are concentrated in a limited area of the wearable device, then the device structure remains simple and compact, but the measurement precision and extent of biometric data collection are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The wearable device is divided into multiple segments along the band, with each segment containing one or more SMI sensors positioned at different locations. This segmentation allows the sensors to be distributed across a larger area of the user's body (such as along the arm or wrist), enabling measurement of multiple anatomical features simultaneously while maintaining individual sensor simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor arrangement transitions from a two-dimensional concentrated layout to a one-dimensional distributed layout along the band. By extending sensor distribution along the length of the band (first dimension) while maintaining vertical positioning (second dimension), the system achieves broader anatomical coverage without significantly increasing device complexity
2Area of stationary object
If multiple SMI sensors are distributed throughout the band to measure multiple anatomical features, then the observable area and biometric data extent are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Each SMI sensor in the distributed array is designed with universal functionality to measure multiple types of biometric data (blood flow, heart rate, movement) depending on its position and orientation. This multi-functionality allows a single sensor to contribute to multiple measurement goals, reducing the need for specialized sensors for each anatomical feature
Solution Approach 2:
The processing circuitry automatically identifies and selects relevant signals from the distributed sensor array based on the anatomical features being measured, without requiring manual configuration. The system self-adjusts by filtering and selecting appropriate signals from the multiple sensors, reducing the operational complexity of managing the distributed array
3Measurement precision
If a subset of SMI signals is identified and used for biometric determination, then the accuracy of biometric data is improved by using relevant signals only, but the processing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The processing circuitry continuously monitors the SMI signals from distributed sensors and uses feedback mechanisms to identify which signals are relevant to the current measurement task. Based on the anatomical features being measured and the signal characteristics, the system dynamically selects and weights appropriate signals, improving accuracy while managing processing complexity through adaptive algorithms
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
This approach enables the collection of additional biometric data with improved accuracy, including blood flow, heart rate, and movement, by expanding the observable area and providing simultaneous measurements of multiple anatomical features.
Implementation Method 1
The one or more SMI sensors may be configured to emit electromagnetic radiation toward the portion of the band interior, and generate a set of one or more SMI signals including information indicative of movement of the portion of the band interior
Data Source
AI summary
A wearable device includes a band and a set of one or more SMI sensors. The band has a band interior opposite a band exterior, and is operable to attach the wearable device to a user. The band defines a cavity, and a portion of the band interior separates the cavity from the user. The set of one or more SMI sensors are disposed in the cavity. The set of one or more SMI sensors are configured to emit electromagnetic radiation toward the portion of the band interior and generate a set of one or more SMI signals including information indicative of movement of the portion of the band interior.