Wearable Differential Pulse Sensing for Higher Signal-to-Noise
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing non-invasive glucose monitoring systems face challenges in sensitivity, selectivity, and repeatability, and methods for early dental caries detection are subjective and difficult to quantify, while current breast cancer screening techniques are limited by ionizing radiation and low sensitivity.
Innovation Solution
Utilizing fiber-based super-continuum lasers and short-wave infrared spectroscopy for non-invasive glucose monitoring, dental caries detection, and breast cancer screening, which enhance signal-to-noise ratio and provide accurate, non-ionizing detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If non-invasive glucose monitoring systems are used, then patient convenience is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the optical measurement into multiple wavelength components using a spectrometer, analyzing different spectral regions to separately identify glucose signals from interfering substances. This segmentation of the spectral analysis allows non-invasive measurement while maintaining precision by isolating the target analyte signal.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses an optical intermediary system comprising light sources, optical fibers, and spectrometers to mediate between the patient's tissue and the detection system. This intermediary optical pathway enables non-invasive glucose monitoring while preserving measurement accuracy through controlled light-tissue interaction and spectral analysis.
2Measurement precision
If short-wave infrared spectroscopy is used, then signal-to-noise ratio is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs a multi-functional optical platform that uses the same short-wave infrared spectroscopy hardware for multiple applications including glucose monitoring, dental caries detection, and breast cancer screening. This universal device design reduces overall complexity by consolidating functions rather than requiring separate specialized systems for each application.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes in the infrared spectrum, specifically operating in the short-wave infrared region (1000-2500 nm) where water absorption is minimized and molecular overtone transitions provide strong signals. This parameter selection optimizes signal-to-noise ratio while using commercially available infrared components to manage device complexity.
3Measurement precision
If traditional breast cancer screening is used, then detection capability is improved, but harmful factors increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces ionizing radiation-based detection (X-ray mammography) with optical spectroscopy using infrared light. This substitution eliminates harmful ionizing radiation while maintaining detection capability by using photon-based optical absorption and scattering measurements to identify tissue abnormalities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent converts the naturally occurring optical properties of biological tissues (absorption and scattering of infrared light) into beneficial diagnostic signals. By measuring how tissue naturally interacts with infrared radiation, the system achieves cancer detection without introducing harmful external radiation.
4Measurement precision
If fiber-based super-continuum lasers are used, then signal-to-noise ratio is improved, but use of energy increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses periodic modulation of the super-continuum laser source, activating it only during measurement cycles rather than continuous operation. This periodic action reduces overall energy consumption while maintaining high signal-to-noise ratio during the actual measurement periods when the laser is active.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs partial action by using the super-continuum laser only at the specific wavelengths needed for measurement (tuned to molecular absorption bands) rather than emitting across the entire spectrum continuously. This selective wavelength activation reduces energy use while maintaining measurement precision.
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, non-invasive glucose monitoring, early detection of dental caries, and effective breast cancer screening without ionizing radiation, improving patient convenience and diagnostic accuracy.
Implementation Method 1
a light source comprising a plurality of light emitting diodes that are configured to generate an output optical light having one or more optical wavelengths
Implementation Method 2
one or more lenses configured to receive at least a portion of the output optical light and to deliver a lens output light to tissue comprising skin
Implementation Method 3
a detection system configured to receive at least a portion of the lens output light reflected from the tissue and to generate an output signal
Implementation Method 4
short-wave infrared spectroscopy for non-invasive glucose monitoring, dental caries detection, and breast cancer screening
Data Source
AI summary
A wearable device to measure a user's physiological parameters comprising one or more biosensors, as well as a light source comprising light emitting diodes, lenses for directing light towards tissue of the user comprising blood vessels, and a detection system receiving reflected tissue light. The physiological parameters, for example hypertension, are measured with a differential measurement. For example, the physiological parameters may be associated with pulse rate and blood flow. The output signal is associated with the physiological parameters, and artificial intelligence may be used in making decisions regarding the output signal. Signal-to-noise ratio of the output signal may be improved by synchronizing the detection system to the light source, increasing light intensity, and detecting a change. The wearable device is configured to determine that is being worn by the user and may be configured to communicate with a smartphone or tablet.