System for transmission of sensor data using dual communication protocol
Inventors
Al-Ali, Ammar • Scruggs, Stephen • Priddell, Richard • Dejong, Chad A. • Kinast, Eric Karl • Hwang, Jung Soo • Hang, Steven
Assignees
Publication Number
US-12257022-B2
Publication Date
2025-03-25
Expiration Date
2039-10-10
Interested in licensing this patent?
MTEC can help explore whether this patent might be available for licensing for your application.
Abstract
Medical patient monitoring sensor devices including a disposable sensor assembly and a reusable pairing device are disclosed. The disposable sensor assembly can collect patient physiological data and provide power for the reusable pairing device. The reusable pairing device can establish wireless communication with a monitoring device. Once the reusable pairing device receives patient physiological data from the disposable sensor assembly, the reusable pairing device can wirelessly transmit the data to the computing device via the wireless communication.
Core Innovation
The invention provides a sensor system that includes a disposable noninvasive sensor assembly and a reusable transmitter assembly, which together enable the collection and wireless transmission of physiological data from a patient. The disposable sensor assembly incorporates a sensor element configured for attachment to a patient (for example, a finger), a battery, a housing with carefully designed air openings and recesses to facilitate battery activation, a cable, a dock, and a strap for securing the assembly to the patient. The battery provides power not only for the sensor assembly but also for the reusable transmitter assembly.
A significant aspect of the invention is the secure and efficient connection mechanism between the disposable sensor assembly and the reusable transmitter assembly. The housing includes specifically positioned lips and slots, and the transmitter assembly features recessed legs designed to engage with these lips and slots. This mechanical engagement ensures reliable positioning and data transfer between the assemblies. The reusable transmitter assembly houses a processor, memory, and a wireless communication device, enabling it to receive data from the sensor and wirelessly transmit it to a remote patient monitoring device.
The invention addresses the problem with conventional wired physiological measurement systems, where cables restrict patient movement and complicate relocation or transport. Prior wireless solutions required internal power sources within sensors, leading to limitations due to battery capacity and resulting in expensive sensor replacements or impractical recharge times in clinical settings. This invention overcomes these limitations by using a disposable component as the power source, maintaining compatibility with existing equipment while enabling untethered wireless communication between patient and monitor.
Claims Coverage
There are five independent claims in this patent, each outlining a unique inventive combination related to sensor assemblies and wireless data transmission.
Engagement mechanism between disposable sensor and reusable transmitter assemblies
A system comprising a disposable noninvasive sensor assembly with a housing that includes lips forming slots, and a reusable transmitter assembly with recessed legs that engage with those lips and slots, such that when secured, the transmitter can receive physiological data from the sensor. The structure includes: - A sensor element attached to the housing via a cable - A battery stored inside the housing - A dock covered partially by the housing to define the slots - A strap to attach the assembly to the patient - The reusable transmitter with a processor, memory, wireless communication device, and the described leg/lip engagement.
Battery-driven power and air activation in disposable sensor assembly
The battery within the housing is configured to react with incoming air through at least one opening in the housing, generating power for both the sensor and the reusable transmitter assembly. The opening can be sealed prior to use, and the housing may include channels or recesses to ensure air exposure even if the top surface is covered.
Reusable transmitter assembly without an internal energy storage device
The reusable transmitter does not include an energy storage device or internal power source. It is powered exclusively by the battery provided in the disposable sensor assembly when engaged and secured via the mechanical engagement.
Structure and method of securing a disposable noninvasive sensor assembly to a patient and transmitter
A disposable sensor assembly designed for attachment to a patient's finger, including a housing with specially arranged lips and slots, a dock, cable, sensor element, and strap, and being configured to be secured to a reusable transmitter by engagement of transmitter portions with the lips/slots mechanism.
System and disposable assembly configured for finger attachment and wireless data transmission
A system or assembly where the sensor element is configured to attach to a finger, with the housing, dock, lips, slots, strap, cable, and battery arranged to enable the engagement mechanism, power provision from the battery, and wireless data transmission via the reusable transmitter assembly.
The inventive features focus on the secure mechanical interface between disposable and reusable assemblies, battery-driven operation without an energy storage device in the transmitter, and structured airflow activation. These features collectively provide an efficient and compatible system for collecting and wirelessly transmitting physiological data from a patient.
Stated Advantages
Eliminates the need for patient cable tether, enhancing patient mobility and reducing restrictions caused by cables.
Provides a reusable transmitter assembly without an internal power source, reducing operating costs and simplifying replacement logistics.
Extends battery life by using a battery in the disposable assembly and transmitting processed rather than raw data, which requires less power.
Maintains compatibility with existing sensors and monitors while adding wireless communication capability.
Disposable battery and activation mechanism allow for long shelf life and reliable power delivery without recharging.
Mechanical interface ensures robust and secure connection between disposable and reusable assemblies.
The design allows the disposable and reusable components to be waterproof or shockproof for increased durability.
Documented Applications
Wireless monitoring of physiological parameters in medical settings using a sensor attached to a patient's finger with data transmitted to a remote monitoring device.
Enabling patient relocation and movement without loss of measurement data by removing the dependency on cable-based sensors.
Application in hospitals and clinical environments, allowing seamless power provisioning and wireless connectivity to existing monitoring infrastructure.
Interested in licensing this patent?