Patent Application
20230210415
The disclosed subject matter relates to systems and methods for analyte monitoring, including systems and techniques involving calibration or correction performed during processing of monitored analyte levels from an analyte sensor.
The detection of the concentration level of lactate or other analytes in certain individuals using a analyte sensor may be beneficial to their health. Lactate concentration in blood or other bodily fluids is often used to determine the fitness level of athletes, prescribe sports trainings, and measure the impact of training in preparation for competition.
Devices and systems have been developed for automated in vivo monitoring of analyte concentrations, such as lactate levels, in bodily fluids such as in the blood stream or in interstitial fluid (ISF). Some of these analyte level measuring devices are configured so that at least a portion of the devices are positioned below a skin surface of a user, e.g., in a blood vessel or in the subcutaneous tissue of a user. Analyte monitoring systems can include in vivo monitoring systems using a sensor disposed at least a portion subcutaneously to measure and store sensor data representative of analyte concentration levels over time.
Subcutaneously analyte sensors can measure an analyte level, for example, lactate concentration, in blood stream or ISF, and the measurements can involve calibration or correction to the measured concentration of analyte in the blood for further data processing or interpretation. For example, during exercise, lactate is produced in major muscles, exits the muscles to local venous drainage and enters general circulation where lactate levels are detectable in the blood throughout the body within minutes. Several minutes later, lactate is detectable in the dermal ISF.
Because lactate levels change rapidly during exercise, the minutes of lag time between blood and ISF can result in differing values. Blood to ISF lag time varies with each individual sensor placement. The variability can be at least in part to various factors, including but not limited to physiology, the distance of the sensor tail to the nearest capillary, and/or diffusion of lactate through the ISF.
In vivo sensor calibration or correction by a user to account for the differences between analyte concentrations in blood fluid and in ISF often involves using blood samples and a comparable test method, and can produce better results when he change of analyte concentration is minimal to match the blood analyte concentration with the sensor readings. Such calibration using capillary point-of-care blood samples can be difficult to achieve for the analyte sensors for lactate monitoring, at least in part because the resting lactate level can be lower than 2.0 mM and near the lower end of the measurement range.
Accordingly, there is an opportunity for devices and systems that can automatically and accurately perform correction or calibration functions for analyte sensors monitoring an analyte, for example but not limited to lactate. Furthermore, there is an opportunity for devices and systems that can accurately display a monitored analyte level, for example, lactate concentration, for a wide variety of uses, including but not limited to medical, wellness and fitness and athletic training programs for users.
The purpose and advantages of the disclosed subject matter will be set forth in and apparent from the description that follows, as well as will be learned by practice of the disclosed subject matter. Additional advantages of the disclosed subject matter will be realized and attained by the methods and systems particularly pointed out in the written description and claims hereof, as well as from the drawings.
To achieve these and other advantages and in accordance with the purpose of the disclosed subject matter, as embodied and broadly described, the disclosed subject matter includes analyte monitoring devices and non-transitory computer-readable mediums for monitoring an analyte. For example, an apparatus can include one or more processors. The one or more processors can be configured to receive a signal from an analyte sensor. The analyte sensor, for example, can be a lactate sensor. At least a portion of the analyte sensor is positioned in contact with a bodily fluid. The one or more processors are also configured to determine a peak signal width of the signal received from the analyte sensor over a time period. In addition, the one or more processors are configured to determine a lactate concentration in a bodily fluid, in part, based on the peak signal width of the received signal.
According to one aspect of the disclosed subject matter, an analyte monitoring device according to the disclosed subject matter includes one or more processors, an analyte sensor, a communication module, and one or more memories communicatively coupled to the one or more processors, the analyte sensor, and the communication module. The one or more processors are configured to: generate analyte data indicative of a monitored analyte level measured by the analyte sensor corresponding to a first time; generate analyte data indicative of the monitored analyte level measured by the analyte sensor corresponding to a second time; calculate a correction parameter based on the analyte data corresponding to the analyte data corresponding to the first time and analyte data corresponding to the second time; and perform a lag correction to obtain the monitored analyte level using at least the calculated correction parameter.
Additionally or alternatively, the processors can calculate a rate of change of the monitored analyte level based on analyte data measured by the analyte sensor. The processors can perform the lag correction to the monitored analyte level during an exercise period of the user. As embodied herein, the exercise period comprises a period of high-intensity exercise. The analyte sensor is subcutaneously inserted in to a bodily fluid of a user. As embodied herein, the bodily fluid can be blood fluid or interstitial fluid (ISF).
Additionally or alternatively, the processors can perform the correction using the correction parameter comprises a lag time calculated based on the first time and the second time. The lag correction can be performed using a linear correction model. The performed lag correction can equal to an intercept added to a product of the calculated lag time multiplied by a rate of change of the monitored analyte level based on analyte data measured by the analyte sensor. As embodied herein, the intercept can be a value dependent on the analyte sensor.
Additionally or alternatively, the processors can perform the lag correction including correcting a lag between a change in the monitored analyte level in interstitial fluid and the monitored analyte level in blood. As embodied herein, the analyte monitoring device can further include a display configured to receive and display the monitored analyte level.
According to another aspect of the disclosed subject matter, a corresponding non-transitory computer-readable medium is disclosed. The computer-readable medium includes instructions to generate analyte data indicative of a monitored analyte level measured by the analyte sensor corresponding to a first time; generate analyte data indicative of the monitored analyte level measured by the analyte sensor corresponding to a second time; calculate a correction parameter based on the analyte data corresponding to the first and second time; and perform a lag correction to the monitored analyte level using at least the calculated correction parameter. Additionally or alternatively, the computer-readable medium can include corresponding features of the processors according to the disclosed subject matter.
It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and are intended to provide further explanation of the disclosed subject matter. The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute part of this specification, are included to illustrate and provide a further understanding of the methods and systems of the disclosed subject matter. Together with the description, the drawings explain the principles of the disclosed subject matter.
The details of the subject matter set forth herein, both as to its structure and operation, may be apparent by study of the accompanying figures, in which like reference numerals refer to like parts.
Reference will now be made in detail to the various exemplary embodiments of the disclosed subject matter, exemplary embodiments of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. The structure and corresponding method of operation of the disclosed subject matter will be described in conjunction with the detailed description of the system
According to one aspect of the disclosed subject matter, an analyte monitoring device according to the disclosed subject matter includes one or more processors, an analyte sensor, a communication module, and one or more memories communicatively coupled to the one or more processors, the analyte sensor, and the communication module. The one or more processors are configured to: generate analyte data indicative of a monitored analyte level measured by the analyte sensor corresponding to a first time; generate analyte data indicative of the monitored analyte level measured by the analyte sensor corresponding to a second time; calculate a correction parameter based on the analyte data corresponding to the analyte data corresponding to the first time and analyte data corresponding to the second time; and perform a lag correction to obtain the monitored analyte level using at least the calculated correction parameter.
Additionally or alternatively, the processors can calculate a rate of change of the monitored analyte level based on analyte data measured by the analyte sensor. The processors can perform the lag correction to the monitored analyte level during an exercise period of the user. As embodied herein, the exercise period comprises a period of high-intensity exercise. The analyte sensor is subcutaneously inserted in to a bodily fluid of a user. As embodied herein, the bodily fluid can be blood fluid or interstitial fluid (ISF).
Additionally or alternatively, the processors can perform the correction using the correction parameter comprises a lag time calculated based on the first time and the second time. The lag correction can be performed using a linear correction model. The performed lag correction can equal to an intercept added to a product of the calculated lag time multiplied by a rate of change of the monitored analyte level based on analyte data measured by the analyte sensor. As embodied herein, the intercept can be a value dependent on the analyte sensor.
Additionally or alternatively, the processors can perform the lag correction including correcting a lag between a change in the monitored analyte level in interstitial fluid and the monitored analyte level in blood. As embodied herein, the analyte monitoring device can further include a display configured to receive and display the monitored analyte level.
According to another aspect of the disclosed subject matter, a corresponding non-transitory computer-readable medium is disclosed. The computer-readable medium includes instructions to generate analyte data indicative of a monitored analyte level measured by the analyte sensor corresponding to a first time; generate analyte data indicative of the monitored analyte level measured by the analyte sensor corresponding to a second time; calculate a correction parameter based on the analyte data corresponding to the first and second time; and perform a lag correction to the monitored analyte level using at least the calculated correction parameter. Additionally or alternatively, the computer-readable medium can include corresponding features of the processors according to the disclosed subject matter.
The systems and methods presented herein can be used for operations of a sensor used in an analyte monitoring system, such as but not limited to wellness, fitness, dietary, research, information or any purposes involving analyte sensing over time. As used herein, “analyte sensor” or “sensor” can refer to any device capable of receiving sensor information from a user, including for purpose of illustration but not limited to, body temperature sensors, blood pressure sensors, pulse or heart-rate sensors, glucose level sensors, analyte sensors, physical activity sensors, body movement sensors, or any other sensors for collecting physical or biological information. Analytes measured by the analyte sensors can include, by way of example and not limitation, glucose, ketones, lactate, oxygen, hemoglobin A1C, albumin, alcohol, alkaline phosphatase, alanine transaminase, aspartate aminotransferase, bilirubin, blood urea nitrogen, calcium, carbon dioxide, chloride, creatinine, hematocrit, lactate, magnesium, oxygen, pH, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, total protein, uric acid, etc. The purpose and advantages of the disclosed subject matter will be set forth and apparent from the description that follows. Additional advantages of the disclosed subject matter will be realized and attained by the methods, apparatus, and devices particularly pointed out in the written description and claims thereof, as well as from the appended drawings.
Generally, embodiments of the present disclosure include systems, devices, and methods for the use of analyte sensor insertion applicators for use with in vivo analyte monitoring systems. An applicator can be provided to the user in a sterile package with an electronics housing of the sensor control device contained therein. According to some embodiments, a structure separate from the applicator, such as a container, can also be provided to the user as a sterile package with a sensor module and a sharp module contained therein. The user can couple the sensor module to the electronics housing, and can couple the sharp to the applicator with an assembly process that involves the insertion of the applicator into the container in a specified manner. In other embodiments, the applicator, sensor control device, sensor module, and sharp module can be provided in a single package. The applicator can be used to position the sensor control device on a human body with a sensor in contact with the wearer's bodily fluid. The embodiments provided herein are improvements to reduce the likelihood that a sensor is improperly inserted or damaged, or elicits an adverse physiological response. Other improvements and advantages are provided as well. The various configurations of these devices are described in detail by way of the embodiments which are only examples.
Furthermore, many embodiments include in vivo analyte sensors structurally configured so that at least a portion of the sensor is, or can be, positioned in the body of a user to obtain information about at least one analyte of the body. It should be noted, however, that the embodiments disclosed herein can be used with in vivo analyte monitoring systems that incorporate in vitro capability, as well as purely in vitro or ex vivo analyte monitoring systems, including systems that are entirely non-invasive.
Furthermore, for each and every embodiment of a method disclosed herein, systems and devices capable of performing each of those embodiments are covered within the scope of the present disclosure. For example, embodiments of sensor control devices are disclosed and these devices can have one or more sensors, analyte monitoring circuits (e.g., an analog circuit), memories (e.g., for storing instructions), power sources, communication circuits, transmitters, receivers, processors and/or controllers (e.g., for executing instructions) that can perform any and all method steps or facilitate the execution of any and all method steps. These sensor control device embodiments can be used and can be capable of use to implement those steps performed by a sensor control device from any and all of the methods described herein.
Furthermore, the systems and methods presented herein can be used for operations of a sensor used in an analyte monitoring system, such as but not limited to wellness, fitness, dietary, research, information or any purposes involving analyte sensing over time. As used herein, “analyte sensor” or “sensor” can refer to any device capable of receiving sensor information from a user, including for purpose of illustration but not limited to, body temperature sensors, blood pressure sensors, pulse or heart-rate sensors, glucose level sensors, analyte sensors, physical activity sensors, body movement sensors, or any other sensors for collecting physical or biological information. Analytes measured by the analyte sensors can include, by way of example and not limitation, glucose, ketones, lactate, oxygen, hemoglobin A1C, albumin, alcohol, alkaline phosphatase, alanine transaminase, aspartate aminotransferase, bilirubin, blood urea nitrogen, calcium, carbon dioxide, chloride, creatinine, hematocrit, lactate, magnesium, oxygen, pH, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, total protein, uric acid, etc.
As mentioned, a number of embodiments of systems, devices, and methods are described herein that provide for the improved assembly and use of dermal sensor insertion devices for use with in vivo analyte monitoring systems. In particular, several embodiments of the present disclosure are designed to improve the method of sensor insertion with respect to in vivo analyte monitoring systems and, in particular, to prevent the premature retraction of an insertion sharp during a sensor insertion process. Some embodiments, for example, include a dermal sensor insertion mechanism with an increased firing velocity and a delayed sharp retraction. In other embodiments, the sharp retraction mechanism can be motion-actuated such that the sharp is not retracted until the user pulls the applicator away from the skin. Consequently, these embodiments can reduce the likelihood of prematurely withdrawing an insertion sharp during a sensor insertion process; decrease the likelihood of improper sensor insertion; and decrease the likelihood of damaging a sensor during the sensor insertion process, to name a few advantages. Several embodiments of the present disclosure also provide for improved insertion sharp modules to account for the small scale of dermal sensors and the relatively shallow insertion path present in a subject's dermal layer. In addition, several embodiments of the present disclosure are designed to prevent undesirable axial and/or rotational movement of applicator components during sensor insertion. Accordingly, these embodiments can reduce the likelihood of instability of a positioned dermal sensor, irritation at the insertion site, damage to surrounding tissue, and breakage of capillary blood vessels resulting in fouling of the dermal fluid with blood, to name a few advantages. In addition, to mitigate inaccurate sensor readings which can be caused by trauma at the insertion site, several embodiments of the present disclosure can reduce the end-depth penetration of the needle relative to the sensor tip during insertion.
Before describing these aspects of the embodiments in detail, however, it is first desirable to describe examples of devices that can be present within, for example, an in vivo analyte monitoring system, as well as examples of their operation, all of which can be used with the embodiments described herein.
There are various types of in vivo analyte monitoring systems. “Continuous Analyte Monitoring” systems (or “Continuous Glucose Monitoring” systems), for example, can transmit data from a sensor control device to a reader device continuously without prompting, e.g., automatically according to a schedule. “Flash Analyte Monitoring” systems (or “Flash Glucose Monitoring” systems or simply “Flash” systems), as another example, can transfer data from a sensor control device in response to a scan or request for data by a reader device, such as with a Near Field Communication (NFC) or Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) protocol. In vivo analyte monitoring systems can also operate without the need for finger stick calibration.
In vivo analyte monitoring systems can be differentiated from “in vitro” systems that contact a biological sample outside of the body (or “ex vivo”) and that typically include a meter device that has a port for receiving an analyte test strip carrying bodily fluid of the user, which can be analyzed to determine the user's blood sugar level.
In vivo monitoring systems can include a sensor that, while positioned in vivo, makes contact with the bodily fluid of the user and senses the analyte levels contained therein. The sensor can be part of the sensor control device that resides on the body of the user and contains the electronics and power supply that enable and control the analyte sensing. The sensor control device, and variations thereof, can also be referred to as a “sensor control unit,” an “on-body electronics” device or unit, an “on-body” device or unit, or a “sensor data communication” device or unit, to name a few.
In vivo monitoring systems can also include a device that receives sensed analyte data from the sensor control device and processes and/or displays that sensed analyte data, in any number of forms, to the user. This device, and variations thereof, can be referred to as a “handheld reader device,” “reader device” (or simply a “reader”), “handheld electronics” (or simply a “handheld”), a “portable data processing” device or unit, a “data receiver,” a “receiver” device or unit (or simply a “receiver”), or a “remote” device or unit, to name a few. Other devices such as personal computers have also been utilized with or incorporated into in vivo and in vitro monitoring systems.
As embodied herein, the analyte monitoring system 100a can include a software or firmware library or application provided, for example via a remote application server 150 or application storefront server 160, to a third-party and incorporated into a multi-purpose hardware device 130 such as a mobile phone, tablet, personal computing device, or other similar computing device capable of communicating with the analyte sensor 110 over a communication link. Multi-purpose hardware can further include embedded devices, including, but not limited to insulin pumps or insulin pens, having an embedded library configured to communicate with the analyte sensor 110. Although the illustrated embodiments of the analyte monitoring system 100a include only one of each of the illustrated devices, this disclosure contemplates the analyte monitoring system 100a incorporate multiples of each components interacting throughout the system. For example and without limitation, as embodied herein, data reading device 120 and/or multi-purpose data receiving device 130 can include multiples of each. As embodied herein, multiple data receiving devices 130 can communicate directly with sensor 110 as described herein. Additionally or alternatively, a data receiving device 130 can communicate with secondary data receiving devices 130 to provide analyte data, or visualization or analysis of the data, for secondary display to the user or other authorized parties.
For purpose of illustration and not limitation, reference is made to the exemplary embodiment of a data receiving device 120 for use with the disclosed subject matter as shown in
As illustrated in
The communication module 4040 can include a BLE module 4041 and an NFC module 4042. The data receiving device 120 can be configured to wirelessly couple with the analyte sensor 110 and transmit commands to and receive data from the analyte sensor 110. As embodied herein, the data receiving device 120 can be configured to operate, with respect to the analyte sensor 110 as described herein, as an NFC scanner and a BLE end point via specific modules (e.g., BLE module 4042 or NFC module 4043) of the communication module 4040. For example, the data receiving device 120 can issue commands (e.g., activation commands for a data broadcast mode of the sensor; pairing commands to identify the data receiving device 120) to the analyte sensor 110 using a first module of the communication module 4040 and receive data from and transmit data to the analyte sensor 110 using a second module of the communication module 4040. The data receiving device 120 can be configured for communication with a user device 140 via a Universal Serial Bus (USB) module 4045 of the communication module 4040.
As another example, the communication module 4040 can include, for example, a cellular radio module 4044. The cellular radio module 4044 can include one or more radio transceivers for communicating using broadband cellular networks, including, but not limited to third generation (3G), fourth generation (4G), and fifth generation (5G) networks. Additionally, the communication module 4040 of the data receiving device 120 can include a Wi-Fi radio module 4043 for communication using a wireless local area network according to one or more of the IEEE 802.11 standards (e.g., 802.11a, 802.11b, 802.11g, 802.11n (aka Wi-Fi 4), 802.11ac (aka Wi-Fi 5), 802.11ax (aka Wi-Fi 6)). Using the cellular radio module 4044 or Wi-Fi radio module 4043, the data receiving device 120 can communicate with the remote application server 150 to receive analyte data or provide updates or input received from a user (e.g., through one or more user interfaces). Although not illustrated, the communication module 5040 of the analyte sensor 120 can similarly include a cellular radio module or Wi-Fi radio module.
As embodied herein, the on-board storage 4030 of the data receiving device 120 can store analyte data received from the analyte sensor 110. Further, the data receiving device 120, multi-purpose data receiving device 130, or a user device 140 can be configured to communicate with a remote application server 150 via a wide area network. As embodied herein, the analyte sensor 110 can provide data to the data receiving device 120 or multi-purpose data receiving device 130. The data receiving device 120 can transmit the data to the user computing device 140. The user computing device 140 (or the multi-purpose data receiving device 130) can in turn transmit that data to a remote application server 150 for processing and analysis.
As embodied herein, the data receiving device 120 can further include sensing hardware 4060 similar to, or expanded from, the sensing hardware 5060 of the analyte sensor 110. In particular embodiments, the data receiving device 120 can be configured to operate in coordination with the analyte sensor 110 and based on analyte data received from the analyte sensor 110. As an example, where the analyte sensor 110 glucose sensor, the data receiving device 120 can be or include an insulin pump or insulin injection pen. In coordination, the compatible device 130 can adjust an insulin dosage for a user based on glucose values received from the analyte sensor.
A memory 163 is also included within ASIC 161 and can be shared by the various functional units present within ASIC 161, or can be distributed amongst two or more of them. Memory 163 can also be a separate chip. Memory 163 can be volatile and/or non-volatile memory. In this embodiment, ASIC 161 is coupled with power source 170, which can be a coin cell battery, or the like. AFE 162 interfaces with in vivo analyte sensor 110 and receives measurement data therefrom and outputs the data to processor 166 in digital form, which in turn processes the data to arrive at the end-result glucose discrete and trend values, etc. This data can then be provided to communication circuitry 168 for sending, by way of antenna 171, to reader device 120 (not shown), for example, where minimal further processing is needed by the resident software application to display the data.
For purpose of illustration and not limitation, reference is made to the exemplary embodiment of an analyte sensor 110 for use with the disclosed subject matter as shown in
As embodied herein, the analyte sensor 110 can include an Application-Specific Integrated Circuit (“ASIC”) 5000 communicatively coupled with a communication module 5040. The ASIC 5000 can include a microcontroller core 5010, on-board memory 5020, and storage memory 5030. The storage memory 5030 can store data used in an authentication and encryption security architecture. The storage memory 5030 can store programming instructions for the sensor 110. As embodied herein, certain communication chipsets can be embedded in the ASIC 5000 (e.g., an NFC transceiver 5025). The ASIC 5000 can receive power from a power module 5050, such as an on-board battery or from an NFC pulse. The storage memory 5030 of the ASIC 5000 can be programmed to include information such as an identifier for the sensor 110 for identification and tracking purposes. The storage memory 5030 can also be programmed with configuration or calibration parameters for use by the sensor 110 and its various components. The storage memory 5030 can include rewritable or one-time programming (OTP) memory. The storage memory 5030 can be updated using techniques described herein to extend the usefulness of the sensor 110.
As embodied herein, the communication module 5040 of the sensor 100 can be or include one or more modules to support the analyte sensor 110 communicating with other devices of the analyte monitoring system 100. As an example only and not by way of limitation, example communication modules 5040 can include a Bluetooth Low-Energy (“BLE”) module 5041 As used throughout this disclosure, Bluetooth Low Energy (“BLE”) refers to a short-range communication protocol optimized to make pairing of Bluetooth devices simple for end users. The communication module 5040 can transmit and receive data and commands via interaction with similarly-capable communication modules of a data receiving device 120 or user device 140. The communication module 5040 can include additional or alternative chipsets for use with similar short-range communication schemes, such as a personal area network according to IEEE 802.15 protocols, IEEE 802.11 protocols, infrared communications according to the Infrared Data Association standards (IrDA), etc.
To perform its functionalities, the sensor 100 can further include suitable sensing hardware 5060 appropriate to its function. As embodied herein, the sensing hardware 5060 can include an analyte sensor transcutaneously or subcutaneously positioned in contact with a bodily fluid of a subject. The analyte sensor can generate sensor data containing values corresponding to levels of one or more analytes within the bodily fluid.
The components of sensor control device 102 can be acquired by a user in multiple packages requiring final assembly by the user before delivery to an appropriate user location.
Sheath 704 can maintain position within platform 808 with respect to housing 702 while housing 702 is distally advanced, coupling with platform 808 to distally advance platform 808 with respect to tray 810. This step unlocks and collapses platform 808 within tray 810. Sheath 704 can contact and disengage locking features (not shown) within tray 810 that unlock sheath 704 with respect to housing 702 and prevent sheath 704 from moving (relatively) while housing 702 continues to distally advance platform 808. At the end of advancement of housing 702 and platform 808, sheath 704 is permanently unlocked relative to housing 702. A sharp and sensor (not shown) within tray 810 can be coupled with an electronics housing (not shown) within housing 702 at the end of the distal advancement of housing 702. Operation and interaction of the applicator device 150 and tray 810 are further described below.
System 100, described with respect to
Referring to
Referring briefly again to
Besides the electronic modules 3806, the PCBA 3802 may also include a data processing unit 3808 mounted to the PCB 3804. The data processing unit 3808 may comprise, for example, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) configured to implement one or more functions or routines associated with operation of the sensor control device 3702. More specifically, the data processing unit 3808 may be configured to perform data processing functions, where such functions may include but are not limited to, filtering and encoding of data signals, each of which corresponds to a sampled analyte level of the user. The data processing unit 3808 may also include or otherwise communicate with an antenna for communicating with the reader device 106 (
A battery aperture 3810 may be defined in the PCB 3804 and sized to receive and seat a battery 3812 configured to power the sensor control device 3702. An axial battery contact 3814a and a radial battery contact 3814b may be coupled to the PCB 3804 and extend into the battery aperture 3810 to facilitate transmission of electrical power from the battery 3812 to the PCB 3804. As their names suggest, the axial battery contact 3814a may be configured to provide an axial contact for the battery 3812, while the radial battery contact 3814b may provide a radial contact for the battery 3812. Locating the battery 3812 within the battery aperture 3810 with the battery contacts 3814a,b helps reduce the height H of the sensor control device 3702, which allows the PCB 3804 to be located centrally and its components to be dispersed on both sides (i.e., top and bottom surfaces). This also helps facilitate the chamfer 3718 provided on the electronics housing 3704.
The sensor 3716 may be centrally located relative to the PCB 3804 and include a tail 3816, a flag 3818, and a neck 3820 that interconnects the tail 3816 and the flag 3818. The tail 3816 may be configured to extend through the central aperture 3720 of the mount 3708 to be transcutaneously received beneath a user's skin. Moreover, the tail 3816 may have an enzyme or other chemistry included thereon to help facilitate analyte monitoring.
The flag 3818 may include a generally planar surface having one or more sensor contacts 3822 (three shown in
The sensor control device 3702 may further include a compliant member 3826, which may be arranged to interpose the flag 3818 and the inner surface of the shell 3706. More specifically, when the shell 3706 and the mount 3708 are assembled to one another, the compliant member 3826 may be configured to provide a passive biasing load against the flag 3818 that forces the sensor contact(s) 3822 into continuous engagement with the corresponding circuitry contact(s) 3824. In the illustrated embodiment, the compliant member 3826 is an elastomeric O-ring, but could alternatively comprise any other type of biasing device or mechanism, such as a compression spring or the like, without departing from the scope of the disclosure.
The sensor control device 3702 may further include one or more electromagnetic shields, shown as a first shield 3828a and a second shield The shell 3706 may provide or otherwise define a first clocking receptacle 3830a (
Referring specifically to
Moreover, a plurality of module pockets 3838 may be defined in the inner surface of the mount 3708 to accommodate the various electronic modules 3806 arranged on the bottom of the PCB 3804. Furthermore, a shield locator 3840 may be defined in the inner surface of the mount 3708 to accommodate at least a portion of the second shield 3828b when the sensor control device 3702 is assembled. The battery locator 3834, the contact pocket 3836, the module pockets 3838, and the shield locator 3840 all extend a short distance into the inner surface of the mount 3708 and, as a result, the overall height H of the sensor control device 3702 may be reduced as compared to prior sensor control devices. The module pockets 3838 may also help minimize the diameter of the PCB 3804 by allowing PCB components to be arranged on both sides (i.e., top and bottom surfaces).
Still referring to
Referring to
Still referring to
A sharp and sensor locator 3852 may also be provided by or otherwise defined on the inner surface of the shell 3706. The sharp and sensor locator 3852 may be configured to receive both the sharp (not shown) and a portion of the sensor 3716. Moreover, the sharp and sensor locator 3852 may be configured to align and/or mate with a corresponding sharp and sensor locator 2054 (
According to embodiments of the present disclosure, an alternative sensor assembly/electronics assembly connection approach is illustrated in
Additional information regarding sensor assemblies is provided in U.S. Publication No. 2013/0150691 and U.S. Publication No. 2021/0204841, each of which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.
According to embodiments of the present disclosure, the sensor control device 102 may be modified to provide a one-piece architecture that may be subjected to sterilization techniques specifically designed for a one-piece architecture sensor control device. A one-piece architecture allows the sensor applicator 150 and the sensor control device 102 to be shipped to the user in a single, sealed package that does not require any final user assembly steps. Rather, the user need only open one package and subsequently deliver the sensor control device 102 to the target monitoring location. The one-piece system architecture described herein may prove advantageous in eliminating component parts, various fabrication process steps, and user assembly steps. As a result, packaging and waste are reduced, and the potential for user error or contamination to the system is mitigated.
The fully assembled sensor control device 4402 may be loaded into the sensor applicator 102, and the applicator cap 210 may subsequently be coupled to the sensor applicator 102. In some embodiments, the applicator cap 210 may be threaded to the housing 208 and include a tamper ring 4702. Upon rotating (e.g., unscrewing) the applicator cap 210 relative to the housing 208, the tamper ring 4702 may shear and thereby free the applicator cap 210 from the sensor applicator 102.
According to the present disclosure, while loaded in the sensor applicator 102, the sensor control device 4402 may be subjected to gaseous chemical sterilization 4704 configured to sterilize the electronics housing 4404 and any other exposed portions of the sensor control device 4402. To accomplish this, a chemical may be injected into a sterilization chamber 4706 cooperatively defined by the sensor applicator 102 and the interconnected cap 210. In some applications, the chemical may be injected into the sterilization chamber 4706 via one or more vents 4708 defined in the applicator cap 210 at its proximal end 610. Example chemicals that may be used for the gaseous chemical sterilization 4704 include, but are not limited to, ethylene oxide, vaporized hydrogen peroxide, nitrogen oxide (e.g., nitrous oxide, nitrogen dioxide, etc.), and steam.
Since the distal portions of the sensor 4410 and the sharp 4412 are sealed within the sensor cap 4416, the chemicals used during the gaseous chemical sterilization process do not interact with the enzymes, chemistry, and biologics provided on the tail 4524 and other sensor components, such as membrane coatings that regulate analyte influx.
Once a desired sterility assurance level has been achieved within the sterilization chamber 4706, the gaseous solution may be removed and the sterilization chamber 4706 may be aerated. Aeration may be achieved by a series of vacuums and subsequently circulating a gas (e.g., nitrogen) or filtered air through the sterilization chamber 4706. Once the sterilization chamber 4706 is properly aerated, the vents 4708 may be occluded with a seal 4712 (shown in dashed lines).
In some embodiments, the seal 4712 may comprise two or more layers of different materials. The first layer may be made of a synthetic material (e.g., a flash-spun high-density polyethylene fiber), such as Tyvek® available from DuPont®. Tyvek® is highly durable and puncture resistant and allows the permeation of vapors. The Tyvek® layer can be applied before the gaseous chemical sterilization process, and following the gaseous chemical sterilization process, a foil or other vapor and moisture resistant material layer may be sealed (e.g., heat sealed) over the Tyvek® layer to prevent the ingress of contaminants and moisture into the sterilization chamber 4706. In other embodiments, the seal 4712 may comprise only a single protective layer applied to the applicator cap 210. In such embodiments, the single layer may be gas permeable for the sterilization process, but may also be capable of protection against moisture and other harmful elements once the sterilization process is complete.
With the seal 4712 in place, the applicator cap 210 provides a barrier against outside contamination, and thereby maintains a sterile environment for the assembled sensor control device 4402 until the user removes (unthreads) the applicator cap 210. The applicator cap 210 may also create a dust-free environment during shipping and storage that prevents the adhesive patch 4714 from becoming dirty.
Unlike the sensor control device 102 of
As illustrated, the sensor control device 5002 includes an electronics housing 5004 that is generally disc-shaped and may have a circular cross-section. In other embodiments, however, the electronics housing 5004 may exhibit other cross-sectional shapes, such as ovoid or polygonal, without departing from the scope of the disclosure. The electronics housing 5004 may be configured to house or otherwise contain various electrical components used to operate the sensor control device 5002. In at least one embodiment, an adhesive patch (not shown) may be arranged at the bottom of the electronics housing 5004. The adhesive patch may be similar to the adhesive patch 105 of
As illustrated, the sensor control device 5002 includes an electronics housing 5004 that includes a shell 5006 and a mount 5008 that is mateable with the shell 5006. The shell 5006 may be secured to the mount 5008 via a variety of ways, such as a snap fit engagement, an interference fit, sonic welding, one or more mechanical fasteners (e.g., screws), a gasket, an adhesive, or any combination thereof. In some cases, the shell 5006 may be secured to the mount 5008 such that a sealed interface is generated therebetween.
The sensor control device 5002 may further include a sensor 5010 (partially visible) and a sharp 5012 (partially visible), used to help deliver the sensor 5010 transcutaneously under a user's skin during application of the sensor control device 5002. As illustrated, corresponding portions of the sensor 5010 and the sharp 5012 extend distally from the bottom of the electronics housing 5004 (e.g., the mount 5008). The sharp 5012 may include a sharp hub 5014 configured to secure and carry the sharp 5012. As best seen in
The sensor control device 5002 may further include a sensor cap 5018, shown exploded or detached from the electronics housing 5004 in
The sensor cap 5018 may be removably coupled to the electronics housing 5004 at or near the bottom of the mount 5008. More specifically, the sensor cap 5018 may be removably coupled to the mating member 5016, which extends distally from the bottom of the mount 5008. In at least one embodiment, for example, the mating member 5016 may define a set of external threads 5026a (
In some embodiments, the sensor cap 5018 may comprise a monolithic (singular) structure extending between the first and second ends 5020a, b. In other embodiments, however, the sensor cap 5018 may comprise two or more component parts. In the illustrated embodiment, for example, the sensor cap 5018 may include a seal ring 5028 positioned at the first end 5020a and a desiccant cap 5030 arranged at the second end 5020b. The seal ring 5028 may be configured to help seal the inner chamber 5022, as described in more detail below. In at least one embodiment, the seal ring 5028 may comprise an elastomeric O-ring. The desiccant cap 5030 may house or comprise a desiccant to help maintain preferred humidity levels within the inner chamber 5022. The desiccant cap 5030 may also define or otherwise provide the engagement feature 5024 of the sensor cap 5018.
In
As illustrated, the sheath 212 is also positioned within the sensor applicator 102, and the sensor applicator 102 may include a sheath locking mechanism 5310 configured to ensure that the sheath 212 does not prematurely collapse during a shock event. In the illustrated embodiment, the sheath locking mechanism 5310 may comprise a threaded engagement between the applicator cap 210 and the sheath 212. More specifically, one or more internal threads 5312a may be defined or otherwise provided on the inner surface of the applicator cap 210, and one or more external threads 5312b may be defined or otherwise provided on the sheath 212. The internal and external threads 5312a,b may be configured to threadably mate as the applicator cap 210 is threaded to the sensor applicator 102 at the threads 5308. The internal and external threads 5312a,b may have the same thread pitch as the threads 5308 that enable the applicator cap 210 to be screwed onto the housing 208.
In
With the sensor control device 5002 loaded within the sensor applicator 102 and the applicator cap 210 properly secured, the sensor control device 5002 may then be subjected to a gaseous chemical sterilization configured to sterilize the electronics housing 5004 and any other exposed portions of the sensor control device 5002. Since the distal portions of the sensor 5010 and the sharp 5012 are sealed within the sensor cap 5018, the chemicals used during the gaseous chemical sterilization process are unable to interact with the enzymes, chemistry, and biologies provided on the tail 5104, and other sensor components, such as membrane coatings that regulate analyte influx.
In the illustrated embodiment, the sheath arms 5604 of the sheath 212 may be configured to interact with a first detent 5702a and a second detent 5702b defined within the interior of the housing 208. The first detent 5702a may alternately be referred to a “locking” detent, and the second detent 5702b may alternately be referred to as a “firing” detent. When the sensor control device 5002 is initially installed in the sensor applicator 102, the sheath arms 5604 may be received within the first detent 5702a. As discussed below, the sheath 212 may be actuated to move the sheath arms 5604 to the second detent 5702b, which places the sensor applicator 102 in firing position.
In
Similar to the embodiment of
In
As the applicator cap 210 is unscrewed from the housing 208, the ribs 5704 defined on the sheath 212 may slidingly engage the tops of the ribs 5706 defined on the applicator cap 210. The tops of the ribs 5706 may provide corresponding ramped surfaces that result in an upward displacement of the sheath 212 as the applicator cap 210 is rotated, and moving the sheath 212 upward causes the sheath arms 5604 to flex out of engagement with the first detent 5702a to be received within the second detent 5702b. As the sheath 212 moves to the second detent 5702b, the radial shoulder 5614 moves out of radial engagement with the carrier arm(s) 5608, which allows the passive spring force of the spring 5612 to push upward on the sharp carrier 5306 and force the carrier arm(s) 5608 out of engagement with the groove(s) 5610. As the sharp carrier 5306 moves upward within the housing 208, the mating member 5016 may correspondingly retract until it becomes flush, substantially flush, or sub-flush with the bottom of the sensor control device 5002. At this point, the sensor applicator 102 in firing position. Accordingly, in this embodiment, removing the applicator cap 210 correspondingly causes the mating member 5016 to retract.
Turning now to
In
In
With the sharp 1030 fully retracted as shown in
Operation of the applicator 216 when applying the sensor control device 222 is designed to provide the user with a sensation that both the insertion and retraction of the sharp 1030 is performed automatically by the internal mechanisms of the applicator 216. In other words, the present invention avoids the user experiencing the sensation that he is manually driving the sharp 1030 into his skin. Thus, once the user applies sufficient force to overcome the resistance from the detent features of the applicator 216, the resulting actions of the applicator 216 are perceived to be an automated response to the applicator being “triggered.” The user does not perceive that he is supplying additional force to drive the sharp 1030 to pierce his skin despite that all the driving force is provided by the user and no additional biasing/driving means are used to insert the sharp 1030. As detailed above in
With respect to any of the applicator embodiments described herein, as well as any of the components thereof, including but not limited to the sharp, sharp module and sensor module embodiments, those of skill in the art will understand that said embodiments can be dimensioned and configured for use with sensors configured to sense an analyte level in a bodily fluid in the epidermis, dermis, or subcutaneous tissue of a subject. In some embodiments, for example, sharps and distal portions of analyte sensors disclosed herein can both be dimensioned and configured to be positioned at a particular end-depth (i.e., the furthest point of penetration in a tissue or layer of the subject's body, e.g., in the epidermis, dermis, or subcutaneous tissue). With respect to some applicator embodiments, those of skill in the art will appreciate that certain embodiments of sharps can be dimensioned and configured to be positioned at a different end-depth in the subject's body relative to the final end-depth of the analyte sensor. In some embodiments, for example, a sharp can be positioned at a first end-depth in the subject's epidermis prior to retraction, while a distal portion of an analyte sensor can be positioned at a second end-depth in the subject's dermis. In other embodiments, a sharp can be positioned at a first end-depth in the subject's dermis prior to retraction, while a distal portion of an analyte sensor can be positioned at a second end-depth in the subject's subcutaneous tissue. In still other embodiments, a sharp can be positioned at a first end-depth prior to retraction and the analyte sensor can be positioned at a second end-depth, wherein the first end-depth and second end-depths are both in the same layer or tissue of the subject's body.
Additionally, with respect to any of the applicator embodiments described herein, those of skill in the art will understand that an analyte sensor, as well as one or more structural components coupled thereto, including but not limited to one or more spring-mechanisms, can be disposed within the applicator in an off-center position relative to one or more axes of the applicator. In some applicator embodiments, for example, an analyte sensor and a spring mechanism can be disposed in a first off-center position relative to an axis of the applicator on a first side of the applicator, and the sensor electronics can be disposed in a second off-center position relative to the axis of the applicator on a second side of the applicator. In other applicator embodiments, the analyte sensor, spring mechanism, and sensor electronics can be disposed in an off-center position relative to an axis of the applicator on the same side. Those of skill in the art will appreciate that other permutations and configurations in which any or all of the analyte sensor, spring mechanism, sensor electronics, and other components of the applicator are disposed in a centered or off-centered position relative to one or more axes of the applicator are possible and fully within the scope of the present disclosure.
Additional details of suitable devices, systems, methods, components and the operation thereof along with related features are set forth in International Publication No. WO2018/136898 to Rao et. al., International Publication No. WO2019/236850 to Thomas et. al., International Publication No. WO2019/236859 to Thomas et. al., International Publication No. WO2019/236876 to Thomas et. al., and U.S. Patent Publication No. 2020/0196919, filed Jun. 6, 2019, each of which is incorporated by reference in its entirety herein. Further details regarding embodiments of applicators, their components, and variants thereof, are described in U.S. Patent Publication Nos. 2013/0150691, 2016/0331283, and 2018/0235520, all of which are incorporated by reference herein in their entireties and for all purposes. Further details regarding embodiments of sharp modules, sharps, their components, and variants thereof, are described in U.S. Patent Publication No. 2014/0171771, which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety and for all purposes.
Biochemical sensors can be described by one or more sensing characteristics. A common sensing characteristic is referred to as the biochemical sensor's sensitivity, which is a measure of the sensor's responsiveness to the concentration of the chemical or composition it is designed to detect. For electrochemical sensors, this response can be in the form of an electrical current (amperometric) or electrical charge (coulometric). For other types of sensors, the response can be in a different form, such as a photonic intensity (e.g., optical light). The sensitivity of a biochemical analyte sensor can vary depending on a number of factors, including whether the sensor is in an in vitro state or an in vivo state.
Calibration is a technique for improving or maintaining accuracy by adjusting a sensor's measured output to reduce the differences with the sensor's expected output. One or more parameters that describe the sensor's sensing characteristics, like its sensitivity, are established for use in the calibration adjustment.
Certain in vivo analyte monitoring systems require calibration to occur after implantation of the sensor into the user or patient, either by user interaction or by the system itself in an automated fashion. For example, when user interaction is required, the user performs an in vitro measurement (e.g., a blood glucose (BG) measurement using a finger stick and an in vitro test strip) and enters this into the system, while the analyte sensor is implanted. The system then compares the in vitro measurement with the in vivo signal and, using the differential, determines an estimate of the sensor's in vivo sensitivity. The in vivo sensitivity can then be used in an algorithmic process to transform the data collected with the sensor to a value that indicates the user's analyte level. This and other processes that require user action to perform calibration are referred to as “user calibration.” Systems can require user calibration due to instability of the sensor's sensitivity, such that the sensitivity drifts or changes over time. Thus, multiple user calibrations (e.g., according to a periodic (e.g., daily) schedule, variable schedule, or on an as-needed basis) can be required to maintain accuracy. While the embodiments described herein can incorporate a degree of user calibration for a particular implementation, generally this is not preferred as it requires the user to perform a painful or otherwise burdensome BG measurement, and can introduce user error.
Some in vivo analyte monitoring systems can regularly adjust the calibration parameters through the use of automated measurements of characteristics of the sensor made by the system itself (e.g., processing circuitry executing software). The repeated adjustment of the sensor's sensitivity based on a variable measured by the system (and not the user) is referred to generally as “system” (or automated) calibration, and can be performed with user calibration, such as an early BG measurement, or without user calibration. Like the case with repeated user calibrations, repeated system calibrations are typically necessitated by drift in the sensor's sensitivity over time. Thus, while the embodiments described herein can be used with a degree of automated system calibration, preferably the sensor's sensitivity is relatively stable over time such that post-implantation calibration is not required.
Some in vivo analyte monitoring systems operate with a sensor that is factory calibrated. Factory calibration refers to the determination or estimation of the one or more calibration parameters prior to distribution to the user or healthcare professional (HCP). The calibration parameter can be determined by the sensor manufacturer (or the manufacturer of the other components of the sensor control device if the two entities are different). Many in vivo sensor manufacturing processes fabricate the sensors in groups or batches referred to as production lots, manufacturing stage lots, or simply lots. A single lot can include thousands of sensors.
Sensors can include a calibration code or parameter which can be derived or determined during one or more sensor manufacturing processes and coded or programmed, as part of the manufacturing process, in the data processing device of the analyte monitoring system or provided on the sensor itself, for example, as a bar code, a laser tag, an RFID tag, or other machine readable information provided on the sensor. User calibration during in vivo use of the sensor can be obviated, or the frequency of in vivo calibrations during sensor wear can be reduced if the code is provided to a receiver (or other data processing device). In embodiments where the calibration code or parameter is provided on the sensor itself, prior to or at the start of the sensor use, the calibration code or parameter can be automatically transmitted or provided to the data processing device in the analyte monitoring system.
Some In vivo analyte monitoring system operate with a sensor that can be one or more of factory calibrated, system calibrated, and/or user calibrated. For example, the sensor can be provided with a calibration code or parameter which can allow for factory calibration. If the information is provided to a receiver (for example, entered by a user), the sensor can operate as a factory calibrated sensor. If the information is not provided to a receiver, the sensor can operate as a user calibrated sensor and/or a system calibrated sensor.
In a further aspect, programming or executable instructions can be provided or stored in the data processing device of the analyte monitoring system, and/or the receiver/controller unit, to provide a time varying adjustment algorithm to the in vivo sensor during use. For example, based on a retrospective statistical analysis of analyte sensors used in vivo and the corresponding glucose level feedback, a predetermined or analytical curve or a database can be generated which is time based, and configured to provide additional adjustment to the one or more in vivo sensor parameters to compensate for potential sensor drift in stability profile, or other factors.
In accordance with the disclosed subject matter, the analyte monitoring system can be configured to compensate or adjust for the sensor sensitivity based on a sensor drift profile. A time varying parameter β(t) can be defined or determined based on analysis of sensor behavior during in vivo use, and a time varying drift profile can be determined. In certain aspects, the compensation or adjustment to the sensor sensitivity can be programmed in the receiver unit, the controller or data processor of the analyte monitoring system such that the compensation or the adjustment or both can be performed automatically and/or iteratively when sensor data is received from the analyte sensor. In accordance with the disclosed subject matter, the adjustment or compensation algorithm can be initiated or executed by the user (rather than self-initiating or executing) such that the adjustment or the compensation to the analyte sensor sensitivity profile is performed or executed upon user initiation or activation of the corresponding function or routine, or upon the user entering the sensor calibration code.
In accordance with the disclosed subject matter, each sensor in the sensor lot (in some instances not including sample sensors used for in vitro testing) can be examined non-destructively to determine or measure its characteristics such as membrane thickness at one or more points of the sensor, and other characteristics including physical characteristics such as the surface area/volume of the active area can be measured or determined. Such measurement or determination can be performed in an automated manner using, for example, optical scanners or other suitable measurement devices or systems, and the determined sensor characteristics for each sensor in the sensor lot is compared to the corresponding mean values based on the sample sensors for possible correction of the calibration parameter or code assigned to each sensor. For example, for a calibration parameter defined as the sensor sensitivity, the sensitivity is approximately inversely proportional to the membrane thickness, such that, for example, a sensor having a measured membrane thickness of approximately 4% greater than the mean membrane thickness for the sampled sensors from the same sensor lot as the sensor, the sensitivity assigned to that sensor in one embodiment is the mean sensitivity determined from the sampled sensors divided by 1.04. Likewise, since the sensitivity is approximately proportional to active area of the sensor, a sensor having measured active area of approximately 3% lower than the mean active area for the sampled sensors from the same sensor lot, the sensitivity assigned to that sensor is the mean sensitivity multiplied by 0.97. The assigned sensitivity can be determined from the mean sensitivity from the sampled sensors, by multiple successive adjustments for each examination or measurement of the sensor. In certain embodiments, examination or measurement of each sensor can additionally include measurement of membrane consistency or texture in addition to the membrane thickness and/or surface are or volume of the active sensing area.
Additional information regarding sensor calibration is provided in U.S. Publication No. 2010/00230285 and U.S. Publication No. 2019/0274598, each of which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.
The storage memory 5030 of the sensor 110 can include the software blocks related to communication protocols of the communication module. For example, the storage memory 5030 can include a BLE services software block with functions to provide interfaces to make the BLE module 5041 available to the computing hardware of the sensor 110. These software functions can include a BLE logical interface and interface parser. BLE services offered by the communication module 5040 can include the generic access profile service, the generic attribute service, generic access service, device information service, data transmission services, and security services. The data transmission service can be a primary service used for transmitting data such as sensor control data, sensor status data, analyte measurement data (historical and current), and event log data. The sensor status data can include error data, current time active, and software state. The analyte measurement data can include information such as current and historical raw measurement values, current and historical values after processing using an appropriate algorithm or model, projections and trends of measurement levels, comparisons of other values to patient-specific averages, calls to action as determined by the algorithms or models and other similar types of data.
According to aspects of the disclosed subject matter, and as embodied herein, a sensor 110 can be configured to communicate with multiple devices concurrently by adapting the features of a communication protocol or medium supported by the hardware and radios of the sensor 110. As an example, the BLE module 5041 of the communication module 5040 can be provided with software or firmware to enable multiple concurrent connections between the sensor 110 as a central device and the other devices as peripheral devices, or as a peripheral device where another device is a central device.
Connections, and ensuing communication sessions, between two devices using a communication protocol such as BLE can be characterized by a similar physical channel operated between the two devices (e.g., a sensor 110 and data receiving device 120). The physical channel can include a single channel or a series of channels, including for example and without limitation using an agreed upon series of channels determined by a common clock and channel- or frequency-hopping sequence. Communication sessions can use a similar amount of the available communication spectrum, and multiple such communication sessions can exist in proximity. In certain embodiment, each collection of devices in a communication session uses a different physical channel or series of channels, to manage interference of devices in the same proximity.
For purpose of illustration and not limitation, reference is made to an exemplary embodiment of a procedure for a sensor-receiver connection for use with the disclosed subject matter. First, the sensor 110 repeatedly advertises its connection information to its environment in a search for a data receiving device 120. The sensor 110 can repeat advertising on a regular basis until a connection established. The data receiving device 120 detects the advertising packet and scans and filters for the sensor 120 to connect to through the data provided in the advertising packet. Next, data receiving device 120 sends a scan request command and the sensor 110 responds with a scan response packet providing additional details. Then, the data receiving device 120 sends a connection request using the Bluetooth device address associated with the data receiving device 120. The data receiving device 120 can also continuously request to establish a connection to a sensor 110 with a specific Bluetooth device address. Then, the devices establish an initial connection allowing them to begin to exchange data. The devices begin a process to initialize data exchange services and perform a mutual authentication procedure.
During a first connection between the sensor 110 and data receiving device 120, the data receiving device 120 can initialize a service, characteristic, and attribute discovery procedure. The data receiving device 120 can evaluate these features of the sensor 110 and store them for use during subsequent connections. Next, the devices enable a notification for a customized security service used for mutual authentication of the sensor 110 and data receiving device 120. The mutual authentication procedure can be automated and require no user interaction. Following the successful completion of the mutual authentication procedure, the sensor 110 sends a connection parameter update to request the data receiving device 120 to use connection parameter settings preferred by the sensor 110 and configured to maximum longevity.
The data receiving device 120 then performs sensor control procedures to backfill historical data, current data, event log, and factory data. As an example, for each type of data, the data receiving device 120 sends a request to initiate a backfill process. The request can specify a range of records defined based on, for example, the measurement value, timestamp, or similar, as appropriate. The sensor 110 responds with requested data until all previously unsent data in the memory of the sensor 110 is delivered to the data receiving device 120. The sensor 110 can respond to a backfill request from the data receiving device 120 that all data has already been sent. Once backfill is completed, the data receiving device 120 can notify sensor 110 that it is ready to receive regular measurement readings. The sensor 110 can send readings across multiple notifications result on a repeating basis. As embodied herein, the multiple notifications can be redundant notifications to ensure that data is transmitted correctly. Alternatively, multiple notifications can make up a single payload.
For purpose of illustration and not limitation, reference is made to an exemplary embodiment of a procedure to send a shutdown command to the sensor 110. The shutdown operation is executed if the sensor 110 is in, for example, an error state, insertion failed state, or sensor expired state. If the sensor 110 is not in those states, the sensor 110 can log the command and execute the shutdown when sensor 110 transitions into the error state or sensor expired state. The data receiving device 120 sends a properly formatted shutdown command to the sensor 110. If the sensor 110 is actively processing another command, the sensor 110 will respond with a standard error response indicating that the sensor 110 is busy. Otherwise, the sensor 110 sends a response as the command is received. Additionally, the sensor 110 sends a success notification through the sensor control characteristic to acknowledge the sensor 110 has received the command. The sensor 110 registers the shutdown command. At the next appropriate opportunity (e.g., depending on the current sensor state, as described herein), the sensor 110 will shut down.
For purpose of illustration and not limitation, reference is made to the exemplary embodiment of a high-level depiction of a state machine representation 6000 of the actions that can be taken by the sensor 110 as shown in
Upon entry to state 6025, the sensor 110 can store information relating to devices authenticated to communicate with the sensor as set during activation or initialize algorithms related to conducting and interpreting measurements from the sensing hardware 5060. The sensor 110 can also initialize a lifecycle timer, responsible for maintaining an active count of the time of operation of the sensor 110 and begin communication with authenticated devices to transmit recorded data. While in the insertion detection state 6025, the sensor can enter state 6030, where the sensor 110 checks whether the time of operation is equal to a predetermined threshold. This time of operation threshold can correspond to a timeout function for determining whether an insertion has been successful. If the time of operation has reached the threshold, the sensor 110 advances to state 6035, in which the sensor 110 checks whether the average data reading is greater than a threshold amount corresponding to an expected data reading volume for triggering detection of a successful insertion. If the data reading volume is lower than the threshold while in state 6035, the sensor advances to state 6040, corresponding to a failed insertion. If the data reading volume satisfies the threshold, the sensor advances to the active paired state 6055.
The active paired state 6055 of the sensor 110 reflects the state while the sensor 110 is operating as normal by recording measurements, processing the measurements, and reporting them as appropriate. While in the active paired state 6055, the sensor 110 sends measurement results or attempts to establish a connection with a receiving device 120. The sensor 110 also increments the time of operation. Once the sensor 110 reaches a predetermined threshold time of operation (e.g., once the time of operation reaches a predetermined threshold), the sensor 110 transitions to the active expired state 6065. The active expired state 6065 of the sensor 110 reflects the state while the sensor 110 has operated for its maximum predetermined amount of time.
While in the active expired state 6065, the sensor 110 can generally perform operations relating to winding down operation and ensuring that the collected measurements have been securely transmitted to receiving devices as needed. For example, while in the active expired state 6065, the sensor 110 can transmit collected data and, if no connection is available, can increase efforts to discover authenticated devices nearby and establish and connection therewith. While in the active expired state 6065, the sensor 110 can receive a shutdown command at state 6070. If no shutdown command is received, the sensor 110 can also, at state 6075, check if the time of operation has exceeded a final operation threshold. The final operation threshold can be based on the battery life of the sensor 110. The normal termination state 6080 corresponds to the final operations of the sensor 110 and ultimately shutting down the sensor 110.
Before a sensor is activated, the ASIC 5000 resides in a low power storage mode state. The activation process can begin, for example, when an incoming RF field (e.g., NFC field) drives the voltage of the power supply to the ASIC 5000 above a reset threshold, which causes the sensor 110 to enter a wake-up state. While in the wake-up state, the ASIC 5000 enters an activation sequence state. The ASIC 5000 then wakes the communication module 5040. The communication module 5040 is initialized, triggering a power on self-test. The power on self-test can include the ASIC 5000 communicating with the communication module 5040 using a prescribed sequence of reading and writing data to verify the memory and one-time programmable memory are not corrupted.
When the ASIC 5000 enters the measurement mode for the first time, an insertion detection sequence is performed to verify that the sensor 110 has been properly installed onto the patient's body before a proper measurement can take place. First, the sensor 110 interprets a command to activate the measurement configuration process, causing the ASIC 5000 to enter measurement command mode. The sensor 110 then temporarily enters the measurement lifecycle state to run a number of consecutive measurements to test whether the insertion has been successful. The communication module 5040 or ASIC 5000 evaluates the measurement results to determine insertion success. When insertion is deemed successful, the sensor 110 enters a measurement state, in which the sensor 110 begins taking regular measurements using sensing hardware 5060. If the sensor 110 determines that the insertion was not successful, sensor 110 is triggered into an insertion failure mode, in which the ASIC 5000 is commanded back to storage mode while the communication module 5040 disables itself.
As embodied herein, a remote application server 150 operated by the manufacturer of the analyte sensor 110 and/or the operator of the analyte monitoring system 100 can provide software and firmware updates to the devices of the analyte monitoring system 100. In particular embodiments, the remote application server 150 can provides the updated software and firmware to a user device 140 or directly to a multi-purpose data receiving device. As embodied herein, the remote application server 150 can also provide application software updates to an application storefront server 160 using interfaces provided by the application storefront. The multi-purpose data receiving device 130 can contact the application storefront server 160 periodically to download and install the updates.
After the multi-purpose data receiving device 130 downloads an application update including a firmware or software update for a data receiving device 120 or sensor 110, the data receiving device 120 or sensor 110 and multi-purpose data receiving device 130 establish a connection. The multi-purpose data receiving device 130 determines that a firmware or software update is available for the data receiving device 120 or sensor 110. The multi-purpose data receiving device 130 can prepare the software or firmware update for delivery to the data receiving device 120 or sensor 110. As an example, the multi-purpose data receiving device 130 can compress or segment the data associated with the software or firmware update, can encrypt or decrypt the firmware or software update, or can perform an integrity check of the firmware or software update. The multi-purpose data receiving device 130 sends the data for the firmware or software update to the data receiving device 120 or sensor 110. The multi-purpose data receiving device 130 can also send a command to the data receiving device 120 or sensor 110 to initiate the update. Additionally or alternatively, the multi-purpose data receiving device 130 can provide a notification to the user of the multi-purpose data receiving device 130 and include instructions for facilitating the update, such as instructions to keep the data receiving device 120 and the multi-purpose data receiving device 130 connected to a power source and in close proximity until the update is complete.
The data receiving device 120 or sensor 110 receives the data for the update and the command to initiate the update from the multi-purpose data receiving device 130. The data receiving device 120 can then install the firmware or software update. To install the update, the data receiving device 120 or sensor 110 can place or restart itself in a so-called “safe” mode with limited operational capabilities. Once the update is completed, the data receiving device 120 or sensor 110 re-enters or resets into a standard operational mode. The data receiving device 120 or sensor 110 can perform one or more self-tests to determine that the firmware or software update was installed successfully. The multi-purpose data receiving device 130 can receive the notification of the successful update. The multi-purpose data receiving device 130 can then report a confirmation of the successful update to the remote application server 150.
In particular embodiments, the storage memory 5030 of the sensor 110 includes one-time programmable (OTP) memory. The term OTP memory can refer to memory that includes access restrictions and security to facilitate writing to particular addresses or segments in the memory a predetermined number of times. The memory 5030 can be prearranged into multiple pre-allocated memory blocks or containers. The containers are pre-allocated into a fixed size. If storage memory 5030 is one-time programming memory, the containers can be considered to be in a non-programmable state. Additional containers which have not yet been written to can be placed into a programmable or writable state. Containerizing the storage memory 5030 in this fashion can improve the transportability of code and data to be written to the storage memory 5030. Updating the software of a device (e.g., the sensor device described herein) stored in an OTP memory can be performed by superseding only the code in a particular previously-written container or containers with updated code written to a new container or containers, rather than replacing the entire code in the memory. In a second embodiment, the memory is not prearranged. Instead, the space allocated for data is dynamically allocated or determined as needed. Incremental updates can be issued, as containers of varying sizes can be defined where updates are anticipated.
At 531, after receiving the OTA programming command, the microcontroller 5010 validates the OTA programming command. The microcontroller 5010 can determine, for example, whether the OTA programming command is signed with an appropriate digital signature token. Upon determining that the OTA programming command is valid, the microcontroller 5010 can set the sensor device into an OTA programming mode. At 532, the microcontroller 5010 can validate the OTA programming data. At 533, The microcontroller 5010 can reset the sensor device 110 to re-initialize the sensor device 110 in a programming state. Once the sensor device 110 has transitioned into the OTA programming state, the microcontroller 5010 can begin to write data to the rewriteable memory 540 (e.g., memory 5020) of the sensor device at 534 and write data to the OTP memory 550 of the sensor device at 535 (e.g., storage memory 5030). The data written by the microcontroller 5010 can be based on the validated OTA programming data. The microcontroller 5010 can write data to cause one or more programming blocks or regions of the OTP memory 550 to be marked invalid or inaccessible. The data written to the free or unused portion of the OTP memory can be used to replace invalidated or inaccessible programming blocks of the OTP memory 550. After the microcontroller 5010 writes the data to the respective memories at 534 and 535, the microcontroller 5010 can perform one or more software integrity checks to ensure that errors were not introduced into the programming blocks during the writing process. Once the microcontroller 5010 is able to determine that the data has been written without errors, the microcontroller 5010 can resume standard operations of the sensor device.
In execution mode, at 536, the microcontroller 5010 can retrieve a programming manifest or profile from the rewriteable memory 540. The programming manifest or profile can include a listing of the valid software programming blocks and can include a guide to program execution for the sensor 110. By following the programming manifest or profile, the microcontroller 5010 can determine which memory blocks of the OTP memory 550 are appropriate to execute and avoid execution of out-of-date or invalidated programming blocks or reference to out-of-date data. At 537, the microcontroller 5010 can selectively retrieve memory blocks from the OTP memory 550. At 538, the microcontroller 5010 can use the retrieved memory blocks, by executing programming code stored or using variable stored in the memory.
As embodied herein a first layer of security for communications between the analyte sensor 110 and other devices can be established based on security protocols specified by and integrated in the communication protocols used for the communication. Another layer of security can be based on communication protocols that necessitate close proximity of communicating devices. Furthermore certain packets and/or certain data included within packets can be encrypted while other packets and/or data within packets is otherwise encrypted or not encrypted. Additionally or alternatively, application layer encryption can be used with one or more block ciphers or stream ciphers to establish mutual authentication and communication encryption with other devices in the analyte monitoring system 100.
The ASIC 5000 of the analyte sensor 110 can be configured to dynamically generate authentication and encryption keys using data retained within the storage memory 5030. The storage memory 5030 can also be pre-programmed with a set of valid authentication and encryption keys to use with particular classes of devices. The ASIC 5000 can be further configured to perform authentication procedures with other devices using received data and apply the generated key to sensitive data prior to transmitting the sensitive data. The generated key can be unique to the analyte sensor 110, unique to a pair of devices, unique to a communication session between an analyte sensor 110 and other device, unique to a message sent during a communication session, or unique to a block of data contained within a message.
Both the sensor 110 and a data receiving device 120 can ensure the authorization of the other party in a communication session to, for example, issue a command or receive data. In particular embodiments, identity authentication can be performed through two features. First, the party asserting its identity provides a validated certificate signed by the manufacturer of the device or the operator of the analyte monitoring system 100. Second, authentication can be enforced through the use of public keys and private keys, and shared secrets derived therefrom, established by the devices of the analyte monitoring system 100 or established by the operator of the analyte monitoring system 100. To confirm the identity of the other party, the party can provide proof that the party has control of its private key.
The manufacturer of the analyte sensor 110, data receiving device 120, or provider of the application for multi-purpose data receiving device 130 can provide information and programming necessary for the devices to securely communicate through secured programming and updates. For example, the manufacturer can provide information that can be used to generate encryption keys for each device, including secured root keys for the analyte sensor 110 and optionally for the data receiving device 120 that can be used in combination with device-specific information and operational data (e.g., entropy-based random values) to generate encryption values unique to the device, session, or data transmission as need.
Analyte data associated with a user is sensitive data at least in part because this information can be used for a variety of purposes, including for health monitoring and medication dosing decisions. In addition to user data, the analyte monitoring system 100 can enforce security hardening against efforts by outside parties to reverse-engineering. Communication connections can be encrypted using a device-unique or session-unique encryption key. Encrypted communications or unencrypted communications between any two devices can be verified with transmission integrity checks built into the communications. Analyte sensor 110 operations can be protected from tampering by restricting access to read and write functions to the memory 5020 via a communication interface. The sensor can be configured to grant access only to known or “trusted” devices, provided in a “whitelist” or only to devices that can provide a predetermined code associated with the manufacturer or an otherwise authenticated user. A whitelist can represent an exclusive range, meaning that no connection identifiers besides those included in the whitelist will be used, or a preferred range, in which the whitelist is searched first, but other devices can still be used. The sensor 110 can further deny and shut down connection requests if the requestor cannot complete a login procedure over a communication interface within a predetermined period of time (e.g., within four seconds). These characteristics safeguard against specific denial of service attacks, and in particular against denial of service attacks on a BLE interface.
As embodied herein, the analyte monitoring system 100 can employ periodic key rotation to further reduce the likelihood of key compromise and exploitation. A key rotation strategy employed by the analyte monitoring system 100 can be designed to support backward compatibility of field-deployed or distributed devices. As an example, the analyte monitoring system 100 can employ keys for downstream devices (e.g., devices that are in the field or cannot be feasibly provided updates) that are designed to be compatible with multiple generations of keys used by upstream devices.
For purpose of illustration and not limitation, reference is made to the exemplary embodiment of a message sequence diagram 600 for use with the disclosed subject matter as shown in
Following a successful mutual authentication process 620, at step 625 the sensor 110 can provide the data receiving device 120 with a sensor secret 625. The sensor secret can contain sensor-unique values and be derived from random values generated during manufacture. The sensor secret can be encrypted prior to or during transmission to prevent third-parties from accessing the secret. The sensor secret 625 can be encrypted via one or more of the keys generated by or in response to the mutual authentication process 620. At step 630, the data receiving device 120 can derive a sensor-unique encryption key from the sensor secret. The sensor-unique encryption key can further be session-unique. As such, the sensor-unique encryption key can be determined by each device without being transmitted between the sensor 110 or data receiving device 120. At step 635, the sensor 110 can encrypt data to be included in payload. At step 640, the sensor 110 can transmit the encrypted payload 640 to the data receiving device 120 using the communication link established between the appropriate communication models of the sensor 110 and data receiving device 120. At step 645, the data receiving device 120 can decrypt the payload using the sensor-unique encryption key derived during step 630. Following step 645, the sensor 110 can deliver additional (including newly collected) data and the data receiving device 120 can process the received data appropriately.
As discussed herein, the sensor 110 can be a device with restricted processing power, battery supply, and storage. The encryption techniques used by the sensor 110 (e.g., the cipher algorithm or the choice of implementation of the algorithm) can be selected based at least in part on these restrictions. The data receiving device 120 can be a more powerful device with fewer restrictions of this nature. Therefore, the data receiving device 120 can employ more sophisticated, computationally intense encryption techniques, such as cipher algorithms and implementations.
The analyte sensor 110 can be configured to alter its discoverability behavior to attempt to increase the probability of the receiving device receiving an appropriate data packet and/or provide an acknowledgement signal or otherwise reduce restrictions that can be causing an inability to receive an acknowledgement signal. Altering the discoverability behavior of the analyte sensor 110 can include, for example and without limitation, altering the frequency at which connection data is included in a data packet, altering how frequently data packets are transmitted generally, lengthening or shortening the broadcast window for data packets, altering the amount of time that the analyte sensor 110 listens for acknowledgement or scan signals after broadcasting, including directed transmissions to one or more devices (e.g., through one or more attempted transmissions) that have previously communicated with the analyte sensor 110 and/or to one or more devices on a whitelist, altering a transmission power associated with the communication module when broadcasting the data packets (e.g., to increase the range of the broadcast or decrease energy consumed and extend the life of the battery of the analyte sensor), altering the rate of preparing and broadcasting data packets, or a combination of one or more other alterations. Additionally, or alternatively, the receiving device can similarly adjust parameters relating to the listening behavior of the device to increase the likelihood of receiving a data packet including connection data.
As embodied herein, the analyte sensor 110 can be configured to broadcast data packets using two types of windows. The first window refers to the rate at which the analyte sensor 110 is configured to operate the communication hardware. The second window refers to the rate at which the analyte sensor 110 is configured to be actively transmitting data packets (e.g., broadcasting). As an example, the first window can indicate that the analyte sensor 110 operates the communication hardware to send and/or receive data packets (including connection data) during the first 2 seconds of each 60 second period. The second window can indicate that, during each 2 second window, the analyte sensor 110 transmits a data packet every 60 milliseconds. The rest of the time during the 2 second window, the analyte sensor 110 is scanning. The analyte sensor 110 can lengthen or shorten either window to modify the discoverability behavior of the analyte sensor 110.
In particular embodiments, the discoverability behavior of the analyte sensor can be stored in a discoverability profile, and alterations can be made based on one or more factors, such as the status of the analyte sensor 110 and/or by applying rules based on the status of the analyte sensor 110. For example, when the battery level of the analyte sensor 110 is below a certain amount, the rules can cause the analyte sensor 110 to decrease the power consumed by the broadcast process. As another example, configuration settings associated with broadcasting or otherwise transmitting packets can be adjusted based on the ambient temperature, the temperature of the analyte sensor 110, or the temperature of certain components of communication hardware of the analyte sensor 110. In addition to modifying the transmission power, other parameters associated with the transmission capabilities or processes of the communication hardware of the analyte sensor 110 can be modified, including, but not limited to, transmission rate, frequency, and timing. As another example, when the analyte data indicates that the subject is, or is about to be, experiencing a negative health event, the rules can cause the analyte sensor 110 to increase its discoverability to alert the receiving device of the negative health event.
As embodied herein, certain calibration features for the sensing hardware 5060 of the analyte sensor 110 can be adjusted based on external or interval environment features as well as to compensate for the decay of the sensing hardware 5060 during expended period of disuse (e.g., a “shelf time” prior to use). The calibration features of the sensing hardware 5060 can be autonomously adjusted by the sensor 110 (e.g., by operation of the ASIC 5000 to modify features in the memory 5020 or storage 5030) or can be adjusted by other devices of the analyte monitoring system 100.
As an example, sensor sensitivity of the sensing hardware 5060 can be adjusted based on external temperature data or the time since manufacture. When external temperatures are monitored during the storage of the sensors, the disclosed subject matter can adaptively change the compensation to sensor sensitivity over time when the device experiences changing storage conditions. For purpose of illustration not limitations, adaptive sensitivity adjustment can be performed in an “active” storage mode where the analyte sensor 110 wakes up periodically to measure temperature. These features can save the battery of the analyte device and extend the lifespan of the analyte sensors. At each temperature measurement, the analyte sensor 110 can calculate a sensitivity adjustment for that time period based on the measured temperature. Then, the temperature-weighted adjustments can be accumulated over the active storage mode period to calculate a total sensor sensitivity adjustment value at the end of the active storage mode (e.g., at insertion). Similarly, at insertion, the sensor 110 can determine the time difference between manufacture of the sensor 110 (which can be written to the storage 5030 of the ASIC 5000) or the sensing hardware 5060 and modify sensor sensitivity or other calibration features according to one or more known decay rates or formulas.
Additionally, for purpose of illustration and not limitation, as embodied herein, sensor sensitivity adjustments can account for other sensor conditions, such as sensor drift. Sensor sensitivity adjustments can be hardcoded into the sensor 110 during manufacture, for example in the case of sensor drift, based on an estimate of how much an average sensor would drift. Sensor 110 can use a calibration function that has time-varying functions for sensor offset and gain, which can account for drift over a wear period of the sensor. Thus, sensor 110 can utilize a function used to transform an interstitial current to interstitial glucose utilizing device-dependent functions describing sensor 110 drift over time, and which can represent sensor sensitivity, and can be device specific, combined with a baseline of the glucose profile. Such functions to account for sensor sensitivity and drift can improve sensor 110 accuracy over a wear period and without involving user calibration.
The sensor 110 detects raw measurement values from sensing hardware 5060. On-sensor processing can be performed, such as by one or more models trained to interpret the raw measurement values. Models can be machine learned models trained off-device to detect, predict, or interpret the raw measurement values to detect, predict, or interpret the levels of one or more analytes. Additional trained models can operate on the output of the machine learning models trained to interact with raw measurement values. As an example, models can be used to detect, predict, or recommend events based on the raw measurements and type of analyte(s) detected by the sensing hardware 5060. Events can include, initiation or completion of physical activity, meals, application of medical treatment or medication, emergent health events, and other events of a similar nature.
Models can be provided to the sensor 110, data receiving device 120, or multi-purpose data receiving device 130 during manufacture or during firmware or software updates. Models can be periodically refined, such as by the manufacturer of the sensor 110 or the operator of the analyte monitoring system 100, based on data received from the sensor 110 and data receiving devices of an individual user or multiple users collectively. In certain embodiments, the sensor 110 includes sufficient computational components to assist with further training or refinement of the machine learned models, such as based on unique features of the user to which the sensor 110 is attached. Machine learning models can include, by way of example and not limitation, models trained using or encompassing decision tree analysis, gradient boosting, ada boosting, artificial neural networks or variants thereof, linear discriminant analysis, nearest neighbor analysis, support vector machines, supervised or unsupervised classification, and others. The models can also include algorithmic or rules-based models in addition to machine learned models. Model-based processing can be performed by other devices, including the data receiving device 120 or multi-purpose data receiving device 130, upon receiving data from the sensor 110 (or other downstream devices).
Data transmitted between the sensor 110 and a data receiving device 120 can include raw or processed measurement values. Data transmitted between the sensor 110 and data receiving device 120 can further include alarms or notification for display to a user. The data receiving device 120 can display or otherwise convey notifications to the user based on the raw or processed measurement values or can display alarms when received from the sensor 110. Alarms that may be triggered for display to the user include alarms based on direct analyte values (e.g., one-time reading exceeding a threshold or failing to satisfy a threshold), analyte value trends (e.g., average reading over a set period of time exceeding a threshold or failing to satisfy a threshold; slope); analyte value predictions (e.g., algorithmic calculation based on analyte values exceeds a threshold or fails to satisfy a threshold), sensor alerts (e.g., suspected malfunction detected), communication alerts (e.g., no communication between sensor 110 and data receiving device 120 for a threshold period of time; unknown device attempting or failing to initiate a communication session with the sensor 110), reminders (e.g., reminder to charge data receiving device 120; reminder to take a medication or perform other activity), and other alerts of a similar nature. For purpose of illustration and not limitation, as embodied herein, the alarm parameters described herein can be configurable by a user or can be fixed during manufacture, or combinations of user-settable and non-user-settable parameters.
The term “reference electrode” as used herein, can refer to either reference electrodes or electrodes that function as both, a reference and a counter electrode. Similarly, the term “counter electrode,” as used herein, can refer to both, a counter electrode and a counter electrode that also functions as a reference electrode.
The sensor 110 described herein can include a sensing element that includes one or more electrodes configured to detect one or more analyte levels in a bodily fluid, examples of which are shown in
A display unit of a sensor or a reader device can be used to provide direction, suggestion, guidance, recommendations, and/or any other output associated with or corresponding to the lactate concentrations. Suitable processing algorithms, processors, memory, electronic components, and the like can reside in any of a trusted computer system, remote terminal, cloud server, reader device, and/or a housing for the sensor itself. Guidance, recommendations, output, and/or the like can be shown on a display unit or graphical user interface that is in electronic communication with the sensor or one or more components of the sensor system. The display unit or device can be a dedicated reader device or a user equipment, such as mobile device. Alternately, the display unit or device can be a third-party server, cloud server, or remote terminal that communicates with various software applications, which can be accessed by medical professionals. The dedicated reader device, a user equipment, or one of the servers can further relay the data or output to one or more secondary devices such as smart home devices, wearable watches or devices, personal health monitors, or the like.
As embodied herein, the reader device can include a processor, memory, an input/output interface, and a communication interface. Processor includes hardware for executing instructions, such as those making up a computer program. As an example and not by way of limitation, to execute instructions, processor can retrieve (or fetch) the instructions from an internal register, an internal cache, memory, or storage; decode and execute them; and then write one or more results to an internal register, an internal cache, memory, or storage. Processor can also include one or more internal caches for data, instructions, or addresses. The one or more processors can include one or more arithmetic logic units (ALUs) or be a multi-core processor.
As embodied herein, memory includes main memory for storing instructions for processor to execute or data for processor to operate on. As an example, and not by way of limitation, reader device can load instructions from storage or another source to memory. Processor can then load the instructions from memory to an internal register or internal cache. To execute the instructions, processor can retrieve the instructions from the internal register or internal cache and decode them. During or after execution of the instructions, processor can write one or more results (which can be intermediate or final results) to the internal register or internal cache. Processor can then write one or more of those results to memory. For example, the memory can include a random access memory (RAM). This RAM can be volatile memory, a dynamic RAM (DRAM), or static RAM (SRAM). The RAM can be single-ported or multi-ported RAM, and the memory can include one or more memories.
As described herein, with reference to
The one or more active areas can include one or more enzymes used to facilitate the detection of lactate. The active areas, for example, can include a polymeric material to which one or more of the enzymes are chemically bonded (e.g., covalently bonded, ionically bonded, and the like) or otherwise immobilized (e.g., unbound in a matrix). For example, each active area can be overcoated with a mass-limiting, bio-compatibility membrane, and/or an electron transfer agent to facilitate detection of at least lactate.
As embodied herein, lactate levels can be monitored in any biological fluid of interest such as dermal fluid, interstitial fluid, plasma, blood, lymph, synovial fluid, cerebrospinal fluid, saliva, bronchoalveolar lavage, amniotic fluid, or the like.
As illustrated in
The various electrodes can be at least partially stacked or layered on one another. For example, the various electrodes can be laterally spaced apart from one another on the sensor tail. Similarly, the associated active areas upon each electrode can be stacked vertically on top of one another or can be laterally spaced apart. The various electrodes can be electrically isolated from one another by a dielectric material or similar insulator.
For purpose of illustration and not limitation, reference is now made to
For purpose of illustration and not limitation, the diagram can illustrate a user's lactate level curve and can provide to the user various metrics, including but not limited to Lactate Threshold 1 (LT1) and Lactate Turn Point (LTP, also called LT2). The determination of LT1 and LTP can allow athletes and their coaches to properly determine different training zones. For purpose of illustration but not limitation, in a seven-zone system used by endurance athletes, zones 1 and 2 (illustrated as “Endurance” in
For purpose of illustration and not limitation, reference is now made to
For purpose of illustration and not limitation, reference is now made to
As embodied herein, for purpose of illustration not limitation, the performed correction can be a linear correction model based on a rate of change of measured lactate levels. For example, the analyte sensor system can obtain and generate the rate of change of the measured lactate levels from the analyte sensors. The rate of change can be a first-order time derivative of the measured lactate levels. As embodied herein, the linear correction model can include an intercept b, which may be dependent to the sensors. The analyte sensor system can perform the correction in accordance with the relation that Cr=τ(dC/dt)+b, wherein Cr represents the calculated lag correction, and dC/dt represents the rate of change.
Additionally, or alternatively, the systems and devices disclosed herein can provide personalized recommendations based on the analysis of lactate levels. For example, the systems and devices can determine or identify a level or intensity of exercise that the user can maintain without crossing the user's lactate threshold.
For purpose of illustration and not limitation, reference is now made to
For purpose of illustration and not limitation, reference is now made to
While the disclosed subject matter is described herein in terms of certain preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that various modifications and improvements can be made to the disclosed subject matter without departing from the scope thereof. Moreover, although individual features of one embodiment of the disclosed subject matter can be discussed herein or shown in the drawings of the one embodiment and not in other embodiments, it should be apparent that individual features of one embodiment can be combined with one or more features of another embodiment or features from a plurality of embodiments.
In addition to the specific embodiments claimed below, the disclosed subject matter is also directed to other embodiments having any other possible combination of the dependent features claimed below and those disclosed above. As such, the particular features presented in the dependent claims and disclosed above can be combined with each other in other manners within the scope of the disclosed subject matter such that the disclosed subject matter should be recognized as also specifically directed to other embodiments having any other possible combinations. Thus, the foregoing description of specific embodiments of the disclosed subject matter has been presented for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosed subject matter to those embodiments disclosed.
It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the method and system of the disclosed subject matter without departing from the spirit or scope of the disclosed subject matter. Thus, it is intended that the disclosed subject matter include modifications and variations that are within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.
Also disclosed are the following clauses:
1. An analyte monitoring device comprising:
one or more processors,
an analyte sensor,
a communication module, and
one or more memories communicatively coupled to the one or more processors, the analyte sensor, and the communication module, wherein the one or more processors are configured to:
generate analyte data indicative of a monitored analyte level measured by the analyte sensor corresponding to a first time;
generate analyte data indicative of the monitored analyte level measured by the analyte sensor corresponding to a second time;
calculate a correction parameter based on the analyte data corresponding to the analyte data corresponding to the first time and analyte data corresponding to the second time; and
perform a lag correction to obtain the monitored analyte level using at least the calculated correction parameter.
2. The analyte monitoring device of clause 1, wherein the one or more processors are further configured to:
calculate a rate of change of the monitored analyte level based on analyte data measured by the analyte sensor.
3. The analyte monitoring device of clause 1, wherein the one or more processors are configured to perform the lag correction to the monitored analyte level during an exercise period of the user.
4. The analyte monitoring device of clause 3, wherein the exercise period comprises a period of high-intensity exercise.
5. The analyte monitoring device of clause 1, wherein the analyte sensor is subcutaneously inserted in to a bodily fluid of a user.
6. The analyte monitoring device of clause 5, wherein the bodily fluid comprises blood or interstitial fluid.
7. The analyte monitoring device of clause 1, wherein the correction parameter comprises a lag time calculated based on the first time and the second time.
8. The analyte monitoring device of clause 7, wherein the lag correction is performed using a linear correction model.
9. The analyte monitoring device of clause 8, wherein lag correction is performed using the linear correction model, wherein the correction equals to an intercept added to a product of the calculated lag time multiplied by a rate of change of the monitored analyte level based on analyte data measured by the analyte sensor.
10. The analyte monitoring device of clause 9, where the intercept is dependent on the analyte sensor.
11. The analyte monitoring device of clause 1, wherein the lag correction comprises correcting a lag between a change in the monitored analyte level in interstitial fluid and the monitored analyte level in blood.
12. The analyte monitoring device of clause 1, further comprising a display configured to receive and display the monitored analyte level.
13. A non-transitory computer-readable medium comprising instructions that, when executed by one or more processors of an analyte monitoring system, cause the analyte monitoring system to:
generate analyte data indicative of a monitored analyte level measured by an analyte sensor corresponding to a first time;
generate analyte data indicative of the monitored analyte level measured by the analyte sensor corresponding to a second time;
calculate a correction parameter based on the analyte data corresponding to the analyte data corresponding to the first time and analyte data corresponding to the second time; and
perform a lag correction to obtain the monitored analyte level using at least the calculated correction parameter.
14. The computer-readable medium of clause 13 further comprising instructions to:
calculate a rate of change of the monitored analyte level based on analyte data measured by the analyte sensor.
15. The computer-readable medium of clause 13 comprising instructions to:
perform the lag correction to the monitored analyte level during an exercise period of the user.
16. The computer-readable medium of clause 15, wherein the exercise period comprises a period of high-intensity exercise.
17. The computer-readable medium of clause 13, wherein the analyte sensor is subcutaneously inserted in to a bodily fluid of a user.
18. The computer-readable medium of clause 17, wherein the bodily fluid comprises blood or interstitial fluid.
19. The computer-readable medium of clause 13, wherein the correction parameter comprises a lag time calculated based on the first time and the second time.
20. The computer-readable medium of clause 19, wherein the lag correction is performed using a linear correction model.
21. The computer-readable medium of clause 20, wherein lag correction is performed using the linear correction model, wherein the correction equals to an intercept added to a product of the calculated lag time multiplied by a rate of change of the monitored analyte level based on analyte data measured by the analyte sensor.
22. The computer-readable medium of clause 21, where the intercept is dependent on the analyte sensor.
23. The computer-readable medium of clause 13, wherein the lag correction comprises correcting a lag between a change in the monitored analyte level in interstitial fluid and the monitored analyte level in blood.
24. The computer-readable medium of clause 13, comprising instructions to communicate the monitored analyte level to a display and to display the monitored analyte level via the display.
This application claims the benefit, under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e), of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/295,654, filed 31 Dec. 2021, which is incorporated herein by reference.
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 63295654 | Dec 2021 | US |
