Systems and methods for monitoring hydration
Inventors
Assignees
University of Alabama in Huntsville
Publication Number
US-11678812-B1
Publication Date
2023-06-20
Expiration Date
2036-08-17
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Abstract
A smart object may be used to monitor the hydration level of a person. The object has at least two impedance sensors that can be used to sense the complex impedance of a person when a tissue of the user comes into contact with the impedance sensors. The measured impedance can then be used to determine the hydration level of the person. In addition to using the impedance sensors to determine the hydration level of the person, the impedance sensors can also be used to capture an electrocardiogram for the person. The smart object may also be used with another smart object to determine the identity of the user or other physiological parameters of the user such as blood pressure.
Core Innovation
The invention provides systems and methods for monitoring a user's hydration level using a smart object, such as a smart beverage container, that incorporates at least two impedance sensors. These sensors are positioned on the exterior of the container to allow a user's tissue, typically from a hand, to make contact with both electrodes when the container is held. Upon contact, the system measures the complex impedance of the tissue and uses this measurement to determine the user's hydration level.
This approach addresses challenges in accurately and unobtrusively assessing hydration status, especially in everyday contexts where traditional clinical devices are impractical. Existing methods, such as whole-body bioimpedance scales or devices using multiple electrodes on the arms and legs, are cumbersome and interrupt daily activities. The described smart object enables real-time hydration monitoring integrated into common objects, providing seamless user experience and overcoming the limitations of current techniques.
In addition to hydration monitoring, the impedance sensors can be used for capturing physiological parameters like electrocardiogram (ECG), heart rate, and blood pressure. The smart object can further communicate with other smart devices or servers to provide personalized assessments and facilitate user identification or broader health monitoring based on detected physiological signals.
Claims Coverage
The independent claims define three primary inventive features related to hydration monitoring using objects with impedance sensors configured for user contact, electrode positioning, and processing for hydration assessment.
Hydration monitoring in a container using exterior impedance sensors
A container configured to hold a liquid includes at least one sensor comprising a first electrode and a second electrode, both positioned on the exterior surface of the container. These electrodes are arranged so that when the user holds the container in one hand, the user's tissue contacts both electrodes. The sensor senses at least one parameter indicative of a complex impedance of the tissue. At least one processor calculates the user's hydration level based on the sensed complex impedance parameter.
Object with exterior impedance sensors and guide for electrode placement
An object incorporates at least one sensor comprising a first and a second electrode, both on the exterior surface, together with a guide that assists the user in positioning a finger on the first electrode and a palm on the second electrode while holding the object in one hand. This configuration ensures proper user contact for accurate complex impedance measurement, with at least one processor calculating hydration level based on the complex impedance sensed.
Hydration monitoring with dual-sensor configuration for both hands
An object includes at least two sensors: one sensor with first and second electrodes positioned to contact one hand's tissue, and a second sensor with third and fourth electrodes positioned to contact the other hand's tissue. Both sensors are on the exterior surface. The system is configured to sense complex impedance across the body (using both hands) and a processor calculates hydration level for the user based on these impedance parameters.
Method for monitoring hydration using exterior electrodes on a container
A method comprising: positioning a first and a second electrode on an exterior surface of a liquid-holding container so that one hand's tissue can contact both when the container is held in one hand; sensing at least one parameter indicative of the complex impedance of the tissue using the electrodes; and calculating a hydration level for the user with a processor based on the sensed impedance parameter.
The claims broadly cover systems and methods for hydration monitoring using objects with electrodes positioned for user tissue contact, complex impedance sensing, and processor-based calculation of hydration levels, optionally using guides for electrode placement, multi-electrode arrangements for both hands, and object variations beyond containers.
Stated Advantages
Provides unobtrusive and real-time hydration monitoring through integration with everyday objects.
Eliminates the need for specialized or cumbersome clinical equipment for hydration assessment.
Enables immediate feedback to users regarding their hydration levels.
Facilitates personalized assessment of hydration status by using measurements directly from the user's contact with the object.
Allows for multipurpose physiological monitoring, including ECG and blood pressure, in addition to hydration.
Supports integration and communication with other smart devices and remote servers to improve accuracy and personalization.
Documented Applications
Monitoring hydration levels of users during interaction with beverage containers or other everyday objects.
Providing immediate hydration feedback and notifications to users, caregivers, or medical staff.
Tracking fluid intake and optimization of liquid consumption regimens for health, fitness, or medical purposes.
Monitoring physiological parameters such as heart rate, electrocardiogram (ECG), blood pressure, and stress.
Facilitating identification of users based on physiological signals during object handling.
Integrating hydration data with personal medical records and remote health monitoring systems.
Assessing kidney and heart patient fluid status, and supporting dynamic health condition monitoring.
Incorporating sensors into various forms of everyday and medical objects, including mugs, cups, wearable devices, and even toilet systems for urine color analysis.
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