Synchronized Sensor System for Accurate Distance Estimation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current multiple-sensor implementations for non-invasive, continuous monitoring of physiological parameters like blood pressure are limited by inaccurate distance estimation between sensors, leading to incorrect pulse wave velocity (PWV) measurements and unreliable blood pressure estimation.
Innovation Solution
A synchronized sensor system that includes first and second sensors capable of performing acoustic communication and radio frequency (RF) data communication, allowing for accurate determination of the distance between the sensors and enabling precise estimation of physiological parameters based on measurements from multiple locations on the body.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional measuring devices are used for continuous monitoring, then device simplicity is maintained, but measurement precision and reliability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the monitoring function into multiple independent sensors placed at different body locations, each performing specific measurements. This segmentation allows each sensor to be relatively simple while the collective system achieves high measurement precision through multi-point data collection and synchronization.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensors are designed with multi-functionality, capable of performing both acoustic communication for distance measurement and physiological parameter sensing. This universal design reduces overall system complexity by combining multiple functions into single components rather than requiring separate dedicated devices for each function.
2Adaptability or versatility
If sensors are placed at multiple body locations, then measurement coverage is improved, but distance estimation accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses acoustic communication between sensors as a feedback mechanism to continuously determine and update inter-sensor distances. This real-time distance information feeds back into the physiological parameter calculations, ensuring that multi-location measurements remain accurate despite variations in sensor placement or body movement.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces traditional mechanical distance measurement methods with acoustic communication between sensors. This substitution enables non-contact, wireless distance determination that is more accurate and adaptable to multi-location sensing requirements compared to mechanical approaches.
3Measurement precision
If acoustic communication is implemented between sensors, then distance determination accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges the communication function with the sensing function by using the same sensor components for both acoustic signal transmission/reception and physiological measurement. This consolidation reduces device complexity compared to having separate communication modules and sensing modules.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensors are designed as universal components that simultaneously perform acoustic communication for distance determination and physiological parameter sensing. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed, thereby reducing overall device complexity while maintaining high distance determination 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
The system achieves accurate and reliable estimation of physiological parameters such as blood pressure by improving distance estimation accuracy and allowing flexible, simultaneous multi-modal PWV measurements at different body locations.
Implementation Method 1
the second sensor configured to perform acoustic communication with the first sensor and radio frequency (RF) data communication with the first sensor, a host device, or a combination thereof
Implementation Method 2
the second sensor configured to perform acoustic communication with the first sensor and radio frequency (RF) data communication with the first sensor, a host device, or a combination thereof
Data Source
AI summary
Synchronized sensors and systems are disclosed. Techniques involving a synchronized sensor system for determining a physiological parameter of a user may include: obtaining one or more first measurements at a first location of the user via a first sensor; obtaining one or more second measurements at a second location of the user via a second sensor; and determining the physiological parameter of the user based on the one or more first measurements, the one or more second measurements, and a distance between the first location and the second location, the distance between the first location and the second location determined based on acoustic communication between the first sensor and the second sensor. In some implementations, acoustic communication may include ultrasound signals between the first sensor and the second sensor, which may be time synchronized by exchanging timestamps.