The application be application No. is CN201410018701.8, the applying date be on January 15th, 2014, it is entitled " justTake formula biometric monitoring device and its operating method " application for a patent for invention divisional application.
Specific embodiment
Originally, it should be noted that the described herein and many inventions of diagram illustrating.The present invention is neither limited to any list of the inventionOne side or embodiment are also not necessarily limited to any combination and/or displacement of these aspects and/or embodiment.In addition, can individually orIn conjunction with one of other aspects and/or embodiment of the invention or it is one or more of be used together aspect of the invention and/orEach of embodiment.For brevity, herein by regardless of another matter state those displacement and combination in many displacements andCombination.
In addition, stating various circuits, framework, structure, component, function during describing and illustrating the present inventionAnd/or element with and combinations thereof and/or displacement.It should be understood that circuit, framework, structure, component, function and/or element are (specific to retouchExcept addressing those of diagram illustrating) with and combinations thereof and/or displacement be covered by and within the scope of the invention.
Biosensor
Portable biometric metering monitor of the invention can be used with a sensor in lower sensor, some sensingsDevice or all sensors obtain physiological data, include the physiological data summarized in following table.Biosensor and/or physiology numberAccording to all combinations and displacement intend fall within the scope of the invention.Portable biometric metering monitor of the invention canIncluding but not limited to Types Below：It is a sensor in sensor as specified below to obtain corresponding physiological data, someSensor or all sensors；In fact, other types of sensor can be used to obtain corresponding physiological data, other classesThe sensor plan of type is fallen within the scope of the invention.In addition, described device can export institute from respective sensor output dataState physiological data, but be not limited to can derived from the sensor physiological data number and type.
In an exemplary embodiment, portable biometric metering monitor include optical sensor to detect, sense,Sampling and/or generate can be used for determining indicate (for example) user stress (or its horizontal), blood pressure and/or heart rate informationData.(referring to, for example, Fig. 2 to 7 and 17 to 23).In this embodiment, biometric monitoring device is passed comprising opticsSensor, the optical sensor have to by light emitting or one or more light sources being output in the body of user(LED, laser etc.) and/or to sample, measure and/or detect response or reflection and provide for determine indicate user stressThe light detection of the data of the data (for example, using photoplethysmography, i.e., " PPG ") of (or it is horizontal), blood pressure and/or heart rateDevice (photodiode, phototransistor etc.).
In an exemplary embodiment, the heart rate measurement of user (or can be connected to by one or more sensorsIts processing circuit) determine criterion triggering.For example, when the data instruction from motion sensor is static or few movementPeriod when, biometric monitoring device can trigger, obtain and/or obtain heart rate measurement or data.(referring to, for example, figure15,24 and 25).In one embodiment, when motion sensor indicates that User Activity or movement (for example, are not suitable for or suitablePreferably trigger, obtain and/or obtain wanted heart rate measurement or data (for example, for determining the data of the resting heart rate of user)Movement) when, biometric monitoring device and/or sensor for obtaining and/or obtaining wanted heart rate measurement or data canIt is placed in or keeps in low power state.It is apparent that the measurement taken during movement can be insecure and can be movedArtifact (for example, the relative motion between sensor and user) damage.
In another embodiment, the data of instruction User Activity or movement can be used in biometric monitoring device of the invention(for example, come from one or more motion sensors) adjusts or modify triggering, acquisition and/or the wanted heart rate of acquisitionThe characteristic of measurement or data (for example, to improve the robustness of motion artifacts).For example, instruction User Activity can be usedOr the data of movement (are illustrated and come the sampling rate and/or resolution model for adjusting or modifying the sensor for obtaining heart rate dataSay, user movement amount exceed specific threshold in the case where, biometric monitoring device can increase for obtain heart rate measurement orThe sampling rate of the sensor of data and/or the sampling resolution mode for increasing the sensor).In addition, biometric monitorsDevice can adjust or modify motion sensor, and in these of User Activity or the movement period, (for example, user movement amount exceedsThe period of specific threshold) during sampling rate and/or resolution model.By this method, when biometric monitoring device determinesOr when detecting this User Activity or movement, motion sensor can be placed in higher sampling rate and/or higher sampling resolution mouldThe more accurate adaptive-filtering to heart rate signal is realized with (for example) in formula.(referring to, for example, Figure 15).
It is apparent that obtaining heart rate measurement or data using optical technology (for example, photocapacitance in biometric monitoring deviceProduct graphical method) in the case where, motor message can be used determine or establish to data acquisition or measurement (for example, synchronous detection,Rather than the method or technique of non-amplitude modulation) and/or its analysis ad hoc approach or technology.(referring to, for example, Figure 21).By this method, indicate that the data that sensor is obtained by optics heart rate data are established or adjusted to the data of user movement or activityThe type or technology for obtaining or measuring.
For example, in a preferred embodiment, when motion detector circuit detects or determines that the movement of user is lowWhen threshold value (for example, biometric monitoring device determines that user is just sitting quietly or sleeping), biometric monitoring of the inventionDevice and technology can adjust and/or reduce the sampling rate of optics heart rate sampling.(referring to, for example, Figure 15).With this sideFormula, biometric monitoring device can control its power consumption (for example, reducing power consumption by reducing sampling rate),For example, biometric monitoring device can every 10 minutes it is primary or every 10 seconds 1 minute ground to heart rate (via heart rate sensor)It is sampled.It is apparent that in addition to this or replace this, biometric monitoring device can according to motion detection via control data atIt manages circuit analysis and/or data analysis technique and controls power consumption.Therefore, the movement of user can influence heart rate data acquisition ginsengThe analysis of several and/or its data or processing.
In another embodiment, when device determines that user's (for example) sits quietly or falls asleep, biometric monitoring deviceSensor can be used to calculate heart rate variability.Herein, device can with higher rate sampling mode (relative to it is non-sit quietly the period orThe User Activity period beyond predetermined threshold) sensor is operated to calculate heart rate variability.Biometric monitoring device (or it is externalDevice) can be used heart rate variability as health of heart or stress indicator.
In fact, in a preferred embodiment, (for example, such as being monitored and being filled by biometric when user sits quietly and/or falls asleepSet detected and/or determine (for example, automatically)) when, biometric monitoring device measures and/or determines answering for userSwash horizontal and/or health of heart.Instruction heart rate variability, electrodermal reaction, skin can be used in biometric monitoring device of the inventionThe sensing data of skin temperature, body temp and/or heart rate come determine the stress level of user, health status (for example, fever orRisk, beginning or the deterioration of flu) and/or health of heart.By this method, the processing circuit of biometric monitoring device can determineAnd/or track " baseline " stress level of user at any time and/or heart at any time " health ".In another embodiment, it fillsMeasurement user is set not move (or the movement of user is lower than predetermined threshold) in user, be seated, lie low, falling asleep or in specific sleepThe physiological parameter during one or more periods in stage (for example, deep sleep).This data also acts as stress phaseIt is anti-to close parameter, health-related parameter (for example, risk or beginning of fever or flu), health of heart, heart rate variability, skin electricityIt answers, " baseline " of skin temperature, body temp and/or heart rate.
It is apparent that in one embodiment, biometric monitoring device can detect or determine when user is just attempting automaticallyIt goes to bed, into sleep, sleeping and/or wake up from sleep cycle.In this embodiment, life can be used in biometric monitoring deviceReason sensor obtains physiological data (type as described in this article and in a manner of as described in this article), wherein dataProcessing circuit senses heart rate, heart rate variability, respiratory rate, electrodermal reaction, movement and/or skin and/or body tempWhether combination is related just attempts to go to bed to detect or determine user, into sleep, sleeping and/or wake up from sleep cycle.MakeFor response, biometric monitoring device can (for example) obtain physiological data and/or determine the physiological condition of user (as hereinDescribed in type and in a manner of as described in this article).For example, become with the reduction of user's heart rate and/or heart rateThe reduction or stopping of the combined user movement of anisotropic change can indicate that user has fallen asleep.The subsequent change of heart rate variability and skinThe sleep state and/or two or more sleep stages that electricity reaction can be used for determining user are (for example, into slightAnd/or deep sleep stages) between transformation.The movement of user and/or the change of boosted heart rate and/or heart rate variability canFor determining that user has waken up.
In one embodiment, biometric monitoring device is a component of the system for monitoring sleep, wherein instituteThe system of stating includes that can communicate with biometric monitoring device and the auxiliary device that is suitable for placing close to sleeper is (for example, make a noiseClock).The auxiliary device can have shape and machinery to receive biometric monitoring device and/or magnetic interfaces withIn safeguard protection, communication and/or charging.It is apparent that the communication between biometric monitoring device and auxiliary device can be via nothingLine communication technology/method and agreement (such as bluetooth, bluetooth 4.0, RFID, NFC or WLAN) and provide.The auxiliary device can wrapSensor is included to help for sleep or environmental monitoring, such as, for example, measurement ambient light, noise and/or sound are (for example, with inspectionSurvey snoring), the sensor of temperature, humidity and air quality (powder, dirt, CO2 etc.).In one embodiment, auxiliary device can be withExternal service (such as www.fitbit.com or server (for example, personal computer)) communication.Communication can be via wired (exampleSuch as, Ethernet, USB) or wireless (for example, WLAN, bluetooth, RFID, NFC, honeycomb) circuit and agreement and realize to pass dataIt is sent to auxiliary device and/or transmits data from auxiliary device.The auxiliary device can also act as relay to transfer data toBiometric monitoring device and/or data are transmitted to external service from biometric monitoring device, such asWww.fitbit.com or other services (for example, the update of news, social networks, Email, calendar notification) or server (exampleSuch as, personal computer, mobile phone, tablet computer).It can be used the data from one or two device to one or twoDevice or external service (for example, Cloud Server) execute the calculating of the dormant data of user.
The auxiliary device can export the data obtained by auxiliary device equipped with display or be monitored by biometricDevice, external service are transmitted to its data or the number from biometric monitoring device, auxiliary device and/or external serviceAccording to combination.For example, auxiliary device can show the instruction heart rate of user, the total step number on the same day, activity and/or sleep targetThe data of realization, the weather on the same day (being reported as measured by auxiliary device or by external service for position) etc..In another realityIn example, auxiliary device can show (for example) in the situation of User Activity (for example, weekly total step number count) with the useRanking related data of the family relative to other users.In another embodiment, the biometric monitoring device can be equipped withDisplay is to show the data obtained by biometric monitoring device, auxiliary device, external service or the combination in three sources.At itFor middle first device equipped in the embodiment for waking up alarm (for example, electric motor of shaker/vibrating motor, loudspeaker), auxiliary device canServe as backup alarm (for example, using audio tweeter).Auxiliary device can also have interface (for example, display and button or touchingTouch screen) with the alarm on formation, deletion, modification or realization first device and/or auxiliary device.
In another embodiment, biometric monitoring device can detect or determine whether it is attached to user, placement automaticallyOn user and/or it is worn by the user.In response to detecting or determining that biometric monitoring device is not attached to user, does not disposeIt is not worn by the user on user and/or, biometric monitoring device (or its selected part) implementable low-power operating modeOr be placed in low-power operating mode, for example, optics heart rate sensor and/or circuit can be placed in shutdown or dead status orIn person's lower-wattage or sleep pattern.For example, in one embodiment, biometric monitoring device includes one or oneWith photo-detector (photodiode, phototransistor etc.), wherein if given luminous intensity setting under, one or one withPhoto-detector provides low return signal, then biometric monitoring device interpretable data entity indicates the device that do not worn.?This determine after, device can reduce its power consumption at once, for example, " deactivated " or adjustment stress and/or heart rate detection senseOperating condition (for example, the working cycles or deactivated light source and/or inspection of reduction light source and/or detector of device and/or circuitSurvey device and/or deactivated or decay its associated circuits or part).In addition, biometric monitoring device can periodically determine (exampleSuch as, once per second) whether should by stress and/or the operating conditions of heart rate detection sensor and/or associated circuits revert to just(for example, light source, detector and/or associated circuits should be back to the normal operatings for heart rate detection for normal operating conditionMode).In another embodiment, biometric monitoring device (for example, is detecting dress after detecting triggerable eventIt the movement (for example, based on the data from one or more motion sensors) set and/or detects via userInterface (for example, touch, collide or fiercely attack) user input after) at once reduction stress and/or heart rate detection sensor and/Or the operating condition of associated circuits.In a related embodiment, for electric power save purpose, biometric monitoring device can withThe rate that its heart rate measurement is collected is reduced to when family is not high activity and (for example) is measured once every minute.In a realityApply in example, user can (for example) via interface (such as passing through promoting button) place a device on demand generate measurement or withFaster rate (for example, once per second) generates in the operation mode of measurement.
In one embodiment, optical sensor (source and/or detector) can be placed in the interior of biometric monitoring devicePortion or skin side (that is, the surface of device contact, touch and/or the side of user oriented skin (hereinafter " skin side ")) on.(referring to, for example, Fig. 2 is to 7).In another embodiment, optical sensor can be placed in one or more of deviceOn side, comprising skin side and device towards or be exposed to one or more sides (ambient side) of ambient enviroment.(referring to actFor example, Figure 11 is to 13).It is apparent that the data from these optical sensors can indicate physiological data and/or environmental data.In fact, in one embodiment, no matter optical sensor whether be placed in one of multiple sides or it is one or more of on, it is describedSensor is provided which, obtains and/or detects the information of multiple sides from biometric monitoring device.For example, optics passesSensor can get data related with the ambient light conditions of environment.
In the case where optical sensor is disposed or is arranged in the skin side of biometric monitoring device, in operation,Light source by light emitting on the skin of user, and in response, photodetector sampling, obtain and/or detection from skin (and/Or in the body) reaction or scatter/institute's reflected light.One or more than one source and detector can be enhanced or excellentChange SNR and/or reduces the power consumption of light source and detector or the array for minimizing the power consumption or pattern arrangement.InstituteIt states fluorescence detector sampling, obtain and/or detect physiological data, the physiological data can be then (for example, by resident processingCircuit) processing or analyze with indicated (for example) heart rate of user, breathing, heart rate variability, oxygen saturation (SpO2),Blood volume, blood glucose, moisture of skin and/or skin pigment level data.
The source can emit with the type of physiological data that will be collected peculiar or relevant to the type one orThe light of more than one wavelength.The fluorescence detector sampling, measurement and/or detection are by the type of the physiological data of collection and incite somebody to actionAssessment or determine (user's) physiological parameter it is peculiar or relevant to the type of the physiological data and the physiological parameterOne or more wavelength.For example, in one embodiment, transmitting has the light source of the light of the wavelength in green spectral(for example, the LED that transmitting has the light of the wavelength corresponding to green spectral) and it is located to sampling, measurement and/or detectionThe photodiode of response or reflection can provide the data for determining or detecting heart rate.In contrast, transmitting has red lightThe light source (for example, the LED that transmitting has the light of the wavelength corresponding to red spectrum) and transmitting tool of the light of wavelength in spectrumHave the light of the wavelength in infrared spectroscopy light source (for example, transmitting have corresponding to IR spectrum wavelength light LED) andThe photodiode for being located to sampling, measure and/or detecting response or reflect can provide the number for determining or detecting SpO2According to.
In fact, in one embodiment, can be repaired according to the physiological data or operating condition for the predefined type being acquiredChange, adjust and/or control the color or wavelength of the light by LED (or one group of LED) transmitting.Herein, it adjusts and/or controls by LEDThe wavelength of the light of transmitting is to optimize and/or enhance " quality " by detector acquisition and/or the physiological data being sampled.CitingFor, the color of light emitted by the LED can be switched to green from infrared ray in the skin temperature or cooler ambient temperature of userTo enhance the signal for corresponding to cardiomotility.(referring to, for example, Figure 20).
In one embodiment, biometric monitoring device includes that window is (for example, visually opaque in the housingWindow) to promote the optical delivery between optical sensor and user.Herein, the window can permit light (for example, selected wavelengthSubstantial portion) be emitted on the skin of user by (for example) one or more LED and permit being transmitted in shellResponse or reflection by (for example), one or more photodiodes are sampled, measure and/or detect.At oneIn embodiment, with emit and receive the related circuit of light can be placed in the inside of device housing and (for example, be coated with it is redOutside line ink) plastics or glassy layer or permit infrared ray and under infrared lenses that the light in inhuman visible spectrum passes throughSide.By this method, light transmission is sightless for human eye.
In one embodiment, light pipe or other translucent constructions can be used in biometric monitoring device.(referring to citing comesIt says, Fig. 8 is to 10).In this, in one embodiment, by light via light pipe or other translucent constructions from light source-guide toThe skin at family.Body from the user scatter or institute's reflected light can be back directed to optics via same or like structureIt circuit and is detected by the optical circuit.In fact, material and/or optical design can be used to promote low light loss to lose in transmittance structure(for example, lens), the power of the SNR of improvement photoelectric detector and/or reduction optical transmitting set and/or photodetector disappears wherebyConsumption.In one embodiment, light pipe or other translucent constructions may include that than other materials higher efficiency selective transmission hasThe material of one or more specific or predetermined wavelength light, serves as bandpass filter whereby.This bandpass filter can be through adjustingThe humorous signal to improve specific physiological data type.For example, in one embodiment, implementable in-mold label or " IML "Translucent construction, wherein the structure forms specific bandpass characteristic (citing using having the material of predetermined or wanted optical characteristicsFor) so that infrared ray than other wavelength light (light for example, with the wavelength in people's visible spectrum) higher efficiencyGround passes through.
In another embodiment, biometric monitoring device can be used with optically opaque part (comprising specificOptical property) and optically transparent part (including the optical property for being different from optically opaque part) light transmission knotStructure.This structure can be provided via dijection or two step mold treatments, wherein material opaque in injection optics and injection opticsUpper transparent material.Depending on travelling across the direction of the light of the structure, implement the biometric monitoring dress of this translucent constructionSetting for different wave length may include different transmission properties.For example, in one embodiment, optically opaque material canComprising to the reflexive property of particular range of wavelengths tool so as to more efficient by light from optical transmitting set and from the body of user backIt is transferred to detector (it can have different wave length relative to light emitted wavelength) and is detected by the detector.
In another embodiment for implementing translucent construction (structure for example, produced or formed via IML), theseStructure may include by limiting light source and/or detector a light source and/or detector, some light sources and/or detector orThe mask of the opaque material composition in the aperture of whole light sources and/or detector.By this method, translucent construction is selectively" definition " light is launched into the preferential volume of the main body detected wherein and/or from it.It is apparent that in combination with described hereinAnd/or illustrated invention is used together or implements other mask configurations；Photoelectricity volume is improved to (for example) to retouchNotation signal and these all masks for combining invention described herein and/or illustrated to implement together, which configure, to be beatenIt falls within the scope of the invention.
In any one of translucent construction described herein, the surface of optical device or apparatus main body may include hardThe coat of paint, hard dip-coating layer or optical coating (such as antireflection), resistance to marring, antifog and/or wavelength band block (such as stop ultravioletLinear light).These characteristics or material can improve operation, accuracy and/or the service life of biometric monitoring device.
In one embodiment, biometric monitoring device in the skin side of device comprising concave or convex shape withIt focuses light towards designated volume with certain depth in skin and increases and light is collected into the efficiency in photoelectric detector from the point.(referring to, for example, Fig. 8 is to 10).Light pipe is also used to come selectively and controllably road in this biometric monitoring deviceIn the case where by light, the end of the light pipe is shaped as to have a degree of cylindricity (for example, non-radial rightClaim) it can be advantageous.This configuration can by increase by light from transmitter be transmitted on the skin of user or in efficiency and meanwhile subtractLack " spuious " light for being detected or being collected by photoelectric detector and improves SNR.By this method, be sampled by photoelectric detector,The signal of measurement and/or detection (indicates to light emitted this light emitted reaction by less stray light and compared with multi-userThe signal or data of reaction) composition.
In one embodiment, the component of optical sensor is positioned in the skin side of device and arranged or positioning is to subtractThe distance between small (i) light source and/or associated detector and the skin of (ii) user make the distance minimization.(referring to,For example, Fig. 5).This configuration can improve the efficiency that the luminous flux between the component of optical sensor and the body of user couples.For example, in one embodiment, light source and/or associated detector are placed on flexible or flexible substrate, this promotes dressThe skin side set meets (for example, do not have extra process in the case where) or can be through moulding (or complying with) to meet lifeThe user that object metering monitor is coupled or is attached in the normal operation period body part (for example, wrist, arm,Ankle and/or leg) shape so that light source and/or associated detector close to user skin (that is, the skin side of device withAlmost without gap between the juxtaposing surfaces of the skin of user).(referring to Figure 11).In one embodiment, light source and/or phaseAssociation detector is placed on flat flexible cable or " FFC " or flexible PCB.In this embodiment, flexible or flexible substrate(for example, FFC or flexible PCB) may be connected in device and be mounted with other components (for example, data processing electricity thereonRoad) the second substrate (for example, PCB).The optical module of different height can be mounted to the difference " finger-like of flexible substrateObject " and it is pressed or is fastened to surface of shell, so that optical module is flushed with the surface of shell.In one embodiment,Two substrates can be the relative inflexibility for being mounted with other circuits and component (passive and/or active) thereon being fixed in device orNon-flexible substrate.
Biometric monitoring device adapted (for example, comprising size and shape) is to be worn or be wearing on user'sOn body (for example, arm, wrist, leg and/or ankle).It is described in the preferred embodiment comprising optics heart rate monitorDevice can fill formula attachment, such as wrist-watch or bracelet for Wrist wearable type or arm.(referring to, for example, Fig. 2 is to 13).Implement at oneIn example, when biometric monitoring device is that wrist fills formula, the optical element of optics heart rate monitor is placed in or is located at the lifeOn the inside of object metering monitor (for example, towards the top of wrist) or skin side (that is, by optics heart rate monitor withWrist juxtaposition).(referring to, for example, Fig. 2 is to 7).
In another embodiment, optics heart rate monitor is placed in or positioned at one of biometric monitoring device or oneOn the above outside or environment side surface.(referring to, for example, Figure 12 is to 13).In this embodiment, user can use another handFinger touch optical window (optical element of optics heart rate monitor be located at behind) to originate heart rate measurement (and/or the and heartThe related other measurements of rate, such as heart rate variability) and/or collect and can be used for determining that the heart rate of user is (and/or related with heart rateOther measurements) data.(referring to, for example, Figure 12).In one embodiment, for example, when the finger of user is putWhen being placed in place over optical windows, biometric monitoring device can pass through (unexpected) decline of the incident light in sense photodiodeTriggering or starting measurement.In addition to this or this is replaced, heart rate measurement (or this other measurement) can be by the proximity detector based on IRAnd/or capacitive touch/proximity detector (it can be separated with other detectors) triggering.This proximity detector based on IR and/Or capacitive touch/proximity detector can be placed in optical window or above and/or functionally couple, be electrically coupled and/or physicsIt is coupled to the optical window to detect or determine the presence of (for example) finger of user.
In another embodiment, biometric monitoring device may include when pressing trigger or originate heart rate measurement (and/orOther measurements related with heart rate) one or more buttons.The button immediately can be bordering on optical window and dispose to promoteInto user when finger is placed on optical window push button.(referring to, for example, Figure 13).In one embodiment, lightIt learns in the embeddable promoting button of window.Therefore, when user presses the button, the button can be engaged and pressed via userFinger and trigger measurement.In fact, the button can be endowed the shape of the pressure quantitative curve of enhancing or optimization resistance fingerShape and/or to the resistance of pressing to provide high SNR during measurement or data acquisition.It (is not illustrated) in other embodimentsIn, biometric monitoring device, which can be taken, to be suitable for being worn on body, clamp or being installed to clothing, be placed in clothes (for example, mouthBag) in or the clip, smooth object, pendant, anklet, the waistband that are placed in attachment (for example, handbag) etc. form.
In a particular embodiment, biometric monitoring device includes protruding portion on the skin or private side of device.(referring to Fig. 2 is to 11).When being coupled to user, protruding portion engages skin with the power bigger than peripheral devices main body.In this embodimentIn, optical window or translucent construction both (discuss in detail above) can form a part of protruding portion or be incorporated to one of protruding portionIn point.The optical transmitting set and/or detector of optical sensor can be disposed or are arranged in and window or the juxtaposed protruding portion of translucent constructionIn.(referring to, for example, Fig. 3 and 11).Therefore, when being attached to the body of user, the protruding portion of biometric monitoring deviceWindow segment with the skin of the power engaging user bigger than peripheral devices main body, between skin and optical window that user is provided wherebyCompared with fastening physical connection.That is, protruding portion improves skin (for example, the body of user of biometric monitoring device and userPredetermined portions skin) between continue and/or fixed contact, this can reduce by the stray light of photoelectric detector measurementAmount reduces the movement between biometric monitoring device and user and/or provides the improved local pressure to the skin of user；This can all increase the quality of heart signal of interest.It is apparent that protruding portion, which contains, benefits from the skin for being immediately bordering on userOther sensors of skin and/or the skin of firm contact user.In addition to heart rate sensor or heart rate sensor is replaced, these are passedSensor can by comprising and including, for example, skin temperature transducer (for example, utilize with to protruding portion outer surface hot epoxy resinIn conjunction with optical window or thermistor untouchable thermoelectric pile), pulse oximeter, blood pressure sensor, EMG or electrodermal reaction passThe sensor of sensor.
In addition to this or replace this, a part of the skin side of biometric monitoring device may include friction enhancing mechanism orMaterial.For example, the skin side of biometric monitoring device may include multiple bending regions part (for example,Small lugs, ridge, groove and/or pit).In addition, friction enhancing material (for example, gel like material, such as silicone) can pacifyIt is placed in skin side.In fact, the device back made of gel also can provide friction, while also improving users'comfort and preventingOnly stray light enters.As described above, friction enhancing mechanism or material can be used alone or together with as described in this articleThe biometric monitoring device of protruding portion is used together.In this, biometric monitoring device is in the protrusion of deviceIt may include multiple bending regions part (for example, small lugs, ridge, groove and/or pit) on or.In fact, thisA little bending region parts may be incorporated into/be embedded in the window segment of protruding portion or on.In addition to this or this is replaced, protrusionThe friction enhancing material can be formed or is coated with by friction enhancing material (for example, gel like material, such as silicone).It is brightUse of aobvious ground, protruding portion and/or friction can by reduction sensor during operation (especially in user movement) relative toThe movement of the skin of user and improve corresponding to special parameter (for example, heart rate, heart rate variability, electrodermal reaction, skin temperature,Skin color, heat flux, blood pressure, blood glucose etc.) data acquisition measurement accuracy.
Some or all of the inside of the shell of biometric monitoring device or skin side can also be by metal material (citingsFor, steel, stainless steel, aluminium, magnesium or titanium) composition.This configuration can provide structural rigidity.(referring to, for example, Fig. 3).It is real hereinIt applies in example, via the use of hypoallergenic former " no nickel " stainless steel, apparatus main body can be designed to hypoallergenic.It is apparent that adoptingIt can be advantageous with the metal types (for example, iron-containing stainless steel grade) that (at least in specific position) is iron content property's.In the case, portable biometric metering monitor (it includes the rechargeable energy (for example, rechargeable electricityPond) in the case where) magnetic properties and charger can be used to interconnect to be fastened to the charger.In addition, portable biometric measuresThe also engageable depressed place or docking station using this magnetic properties of monitoring device is to promote data transmission.In addition, this shell, which can provide, to be increasedThe reinforced electric magnetic screen of strong optics heart rate sensor and data acquisition process/operation integrality and reliability.In addition, skinTemperature sensor can physical coupling and thermal coupling (for example, by hot epoxy resin) detect or sense use to metal masterThe temperature at family.In the embodiment comprising protruding portion, sensor can be positioned on the protruding portion nearby or in provide to userSkin firm contact and concentrate thermal coupling.
In a preferred embodiment, one or more components of optical sensor (in one embodiment, can be located atIn protruding portion, and/or in another embodiment, may be disposed or flushed through placing with the surface of device) it is close via liquid-tightEnvelope (that is, the method/mechanism for preventing liquid from entering in the main body of biometric monitoring device) and be attached, fix, include and/orIt is fastened to portable biometric metering monitor.For example, in one embodiment, by metal (including but not limited to stainlessSteel, aluminium, magnesium or titanium) or rigidity plastics made of device back can provide it is hard enough to accommodate for the anti-of sensor encapsulationThe structure of the structural intergrity of device is maintained when water-stop.(referring to Fig. 3 is to 7).
In a preferred embodiment, the encapsulation of optical sensor or module will be connected to contact adhesive and liquid gasketDevice.(referring to Fig. 7).For example, if optical sensor package/needed between module and apparatus main body it is relatively strong or compared withDurability connection, then screw, rivet etc. also can be used.It is apparent that the present invention also can be used marine glue, hydrophobic membrane (such asGolders (Gore-Tex)), o-ring, sealant, fat or epoxy resin fasten or be attached optical sensor package/mouldBlock and apparatus main body.
As alluded to above, portable biometric metering monitor may include be placed on skin or private side comprising heightThe material of reflection characteristic, for example, polished stainless steel, reflective coating and polished plastics.By this method, from deviceSkin side scatter/light reflected can be by toward backscatter/be reflected into skin so as to (for example) improve SNR.It is practicalOn, compared with for nonreflective apparatus main body back, this effectively increases input optical signal.It is apparent that in one embodimentIn, the color of the skin or private side that select biometric monitoring device (for example, reflects spy to provide certain optical propertiesFixed or predetermined wavelength light) to improve the signal of specific physiological data type.For example, in the skin of biometric monitoringOr in the case that private side is green, the measurement of heart rate can increase because corresponding to the preferential emission of the light of wavelength of green spectralBy force.In the case where the skin of biometric monitoring or private side are red, the measurement of SpO2 can be because corresponding to red spectrumThe preferential emission of the light of wavelength and enhance.In one embodiment, it can be repaired according to the physiological data for the predefined type being acquiredChange, adjust and/or control the skin of biometric monitoring device or the color of private side.
Figure 17 describe optical sensor exemplary schematic block diagram, wherein from light source towards the skin of user emit light andIt is sensed and is reflected by photodetector, wherein then being digitized by the output that A/D converter (ADC) will test device.(example can be modifiedSuch as, via light source intensity control module) intensity of light source to be to maintain to want to scatter/institute's reflection intensity signal.For example, may be usedReduce the intensity of the output of light source to avoid the saturation of the output signal from photodetector.As another example, light can be increasedSource strength is to maintain the output signal from photodetector in the wanted range of output valve.It is apparent that sensor deviceActive control can be (such as proportional integral differential (PID) control, fixed step size control, pre- via linearly or nonlinearly control methodObserving and controlling system, neural network, lag etc.) and realize, and the information derived from other sensors in device also can be used, such asMovement, electrodermal reaction etc..Figure 17 be for illustrate purposes and provide and in this, not by the embodiment of this systemIt is limited to the use of the ADC or MCU that (for example) are integrated in MCU.Other possible embodiments include one or one withThe use of upper internal or external ADC, FPGA, ASIC etc..
In another embodiment, sensor device may be incorporated into use of the sampling with holding circuit (or equivalent) to closeThe output of photodetector is maintained when disconnected or decaying light source is to save electric power.It is most heavy in the relative changes of wherein photodetector outputIn the embodiment of the present invention for wanting (for example, heart rate measurement), sampling and holding circuit can need not maintain the output of photodetectorAccurate copy.In these situations, sampling and holding circuit can (for example) be diode (for example, Schottky(Schottky) diode) and capacitor.Sampling can be presented to analog signal with the output kept and adjust circuit (for example, salung-Triumphant (Sallen-Key) bandpass filter, level shifter and/or gain circuitry) to adjust and amplify frequency band (example of interestIt such as, is the signal in 0.1Hz to 10Hz) for heart or respiratory function, the signal is then by ADC digital.(referring to actFor example, Figure 18).
In operation, this removes the DC of signal and low frequency component and helps to solve and heart rate and/or the related AC of breathingComponent.This embodiment also may include analog signal adjusting circuit (not illustrating) for variable gain setting, the simulationCircuit for signal conditioning can be controlled to provide and be suitble to signal (for example, unsaturated).Light source, photodetector and/or sampling and guarantorThe performance characteristics (for example, conversion rate and/or gain band width product) and power consumption held can be significantly higher than analog signal adjustingCircuit is recycled with the rapid operation for realizing light source.In one embodiment, the electric power of circuit can be adjusted with offer to analog signalDividually control is provided to the electric power of light source and photodetector to provide additional power saving.In another embodiment, citing comesIt says, when analog signal adjusts circuit when still unstable after being set for changing to luminous intensity, except analog signal adjusts circuitExcept or replace analog signal adjust circuit, photodetector and/or sampling with keep output can by ADC obtain or sampling to controlThe luminous intensity of light source processed measures physiological parameter of interest.It is apparent that the consolidating relative to ADC due to physiological signal of interestHave that resolution ratio is usually smaller, therefore in some embodiments, the reference voltage that can adjust ADC and/or gain are to enhance signal matterAmount, or over sampling can be carried out to ADC.In another embodiment, device can pass through (for example) over sampling, the ginseng of adjustment ADCIt examines voltage and/or gain or will only sampling and the output of holding circuit be digitized using high resolution A/D C.(referring to citing comesIt says, Figure 19).
In another embodiment, sensor device may be incorporated into difference amplifier to amplify the output in photodetector outputRelative changes.(referring to, for example, Figure 22).In one embodiment, digital averaging or digital low-pass filtering signal by fromOutput in photodetector output is subtracted and is amplified before it is by ADC digital.In another embodiment, simulation it is average orAnalogue low pass filtering signal via (for example) sampling and holding circuit and analog signal adjust the use of circuit and by from lightThe output of detector subtracts.Offer can be dividually controlled to light source, light detection with providing to the electric power that analog signal adjusts circuitThe electric power of device and difference amplifier is to improve electric power saving.
In one embodiment, optical detector module may be incorporated into the transimpedance amplifier grade with variable gain.This matchesIt sets the avoidable bright ambient light from light source and/or bright light emitted saturation or minimizes the saturation.For example, existIt can carry out adjust automatically by variable resistance and/or one group of multiplexing resistor in the negative feedback paths of transimpedance amplifierAnd/or reduce the gain of transimpedance amplifier.In an embodiment of the present invention, device can carry out amplitude by the intensity to light sourceIt modulates and the output of photodetector (for example, synchronous detect) is demodulated and is almost not incorporated in the optics shielding to ambient light.(referring to, for example, Figure 21).In other aspects, if ambient light has the brightness for being enough to obtain heart rate signal, light sourceBrightness can be reduced and/or complete switched off.
It in another embodiment, can be in combination using aforementioned processing technology with the physiological parameter of optical measurement user.(referring to, for example, Figure 23).The permissible sensor device of this topology is with low-power measurement state and circuit topology (where applicable)It operates and if desired, is suitable for higher-wattage measuring state and circuit topology.For example, sensor device can it is motionless in user orCircuit is adjusted to measure physiological parameter of interest (for example, heart rate) to reduce power consumption using analog signal when sitting quietly, butThe over sampling sampling of photodetector output is directly switch in User Activity.
Herein in described in the text and many inventions of diagram illustrating up and down of biosensor/detector.Although having describedAnd illustrate the particular embodiment of the present invention, feature, attribute and advantage, it should be appreciated that of the invention many other and notSame and/or similar embodiment, feature, attribute and advantage become apparent according to explanation and diagram.Therefore, of the invention above-mentionedEmbodiment is only exemplary.It is that it is not intended to be exhaustive or limit the invention to revealed exact form, technology, materialMaterial and/or configuration.Many modifications and variation can be made according to the present invention.
For example, in the embodiment that wherein device includes heart rate monitor, to obtain the signal of heart rate measurementProcessing may include filtering and/or Signal Regulation, such as bandpass filtering (for example, Butterworth (Butterworth) filter).ForThe big transition that may occur in offseting signal and/or the convergence for the improvement filtering, can be used nonlinear method, such as nerveNetwork or conversion rate limitation.Can be used one of sensor on portable biometric metering monitor or one withOn data (such as data corresponding to movement, electrodermal reaction, skin temperature etc.) come adjust and/or determine by device implementSignal Regulation method.Under specified operating conditions, the heart rate of user can by the number of the signal peak in gate time window orIt is measured using the basic frequency or second harmonic (for example, via Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) (FFT)) of signal.In other situationsIn (such as movement), FFT can be executed to signal and extracted spectrum peak, the spectrum peak is then by, continuation, conjunctionAnd and delete frequency spectrum track multiple target trackers processing.
In one embodiment, one group of similar operations is executed to motor message and carries out movable identification (example using outputSuch as, sit quietly, walk, running, sleeping, lying low, being seated, riding a bicycle, typewriting, elliptical exercise, weight training exercises), this is for assistingMultiple target trackers.For example, it may be determined that user was once static and had started to move, and this information can be used for preferentiallyContinue track and is biased to increased frequency.Similarly, movable discriminator can determine that user has stopped running or just relatively slowly runIt is dynamic, and this information can be used for preferentially continuing track being biased to reduced frequency.Tracking can scan more mesh more by single sweep orMark tracker is topological and realizes, such as Joint Probabilistic Data Association tracker, multiple hypothesis tracking, arest neighbors etc..In trackerEstimation and prediction can be via Kalman (Kalman) filter, spline regression, particle filter, interactive multiple model filteringsDevice etc. carries out.Track selector module uses the output trajectory from multiple spectra tracker and the heart rate of estimation user.It is described to estimateIt is weighted sum of probability of heart rate etc. to it that meter, which can be considered as maximum likelihood track, track,.In addition, movable discriminator can influenceObtain the selection and/or fusion of heart rate estimation.For example, if user just sleeps, is seated, lies low or sits quietly, prioriProbability can be towards the heart rate deflection in 40bpm to 80bpm range；And if user just runs, jogs or do other strenuous exercises,So prior probability can be towards the boosted heart rate deflection in 90bpm to 180bpm range.The influence of movable discriminator can be based onThe speed of user.When user does not move, the estimation can be shifted towards the basic frequency of signal (or all passes through the base of signalThis frequency obtains).The track of heart rate corresponding to user can be selected based on the criterion that instruction activity changes, for example, such asFruit user walks since static, then the track of the displacement towards upper frequency can preferentially be selected to illustrate.
Obtaining for good heart rate signal can monitor dress via the display in biometric monitoring device or with biometricSet another device instruction of communication (for example, wired or wireless communication (for example, mobile phone for being equipped with Bluetooth Low Energy))To user.In a preferred embodiment, biometric monitoring device includes the signal strength indicated by the pulse of the visual LED of userIndicator.The heartbeat that the pulse can be timed to or be associated as with user is consistent.It can modify or adjust intensity, the pulse of LEDRate and/or color are to show signal strength.For example, brighter LED intensity can be indicated compared with strong signal, or in RGB type LEDIn configuration, green LED can be indicated compared with strong signal.
In a preferred embodiment, the intensity of heart rate signal can pass through the signal in the frequency band of (for example) 0.5Hz to 4HzEnergy (for example, square accumulation and) and determine.In another embodiment, can have can for biometric monitoring device of the inventionThe strain gauge, pressure sensor and/or force snesor of shell and/or band are incorporated into shell and/or are incorporated in band or be configured to(in those embodiments, wherein biometric monitoring device is attached to the band as wrist-watch, bracelet and/or armband or is equipped with pictureThe band of wrist-watch, bracelet and/or armband, the band can then be secured to user).Signal quality metrics can be passed by these contactsSensor (individually or jointly the data from heart rate signal together) and calculate.
In another embodiment, biometric monitoring device can be via array (such as the photodiode of photoelectric detectorGrid or CCD camera) and monitor heart rate optically.Accelerometer can be used relative to the movement of skin in Optical devicesAnd gyroscope is corrected via the signature tracking and/or adaptive motion of skin and is tracked.Detector array can with skin contact orIt is deviated at the small distance far from skin.(for example, by motor) detector array and its associated optics can actively be controlledDevice is to maintain the stabilization image of target and obtain heart rate signal.This opto-mechanical stability, which can be used, comes from motion sensor (exampleSuch as, gyroscope) information or characteristics of image and realize.In one embodiment, biometric monitoring device can be used to shinePenetrate the relevant or irrelevant light source and photodetector array (wherein each photoelectric detector proximity detection compared with being used for of skinThe comparator of intensity between device is associated) implement relative motion cancellation, to obtain a variety of image trace technologies can be usedThe so-called speckle patterns of tracking, such as, for example, light stream, template matching, Edge track etc..In this embodiment, it is used forThe light source of motion tracking may differ from light source used in optics heart rate monitor.
In another embodiment, biometric monitoring device can be by the surface of the skin along device touching user (that is, biologyThe skin side of metering monitor) distribution multiple photoelectric detectors and optical transmitting set composition.(referring to, for example, Fig. 2 is arrived11).In the example of bracelet, for example, the multiple photoelectric detectors and light hair of the perimeter placement along the inside of band may be presentEmitter.(referring to, for example, Figure 11).The heart rate signal quality metric at each website can be calculated to determine for estimating to useThe optimal site of the heart rate at family or one group of optimal site.Then, some websites in the website can be deactivated or be turned off (to liftFor example) reduce power consumption.Device can periodically check heart rate at some websites or whole websites in the websiteSignal quality is with (i) selection/enable one or more sensors and/or detector and/or (ii) determines one or oneThe above preferably sensors/detectors enhance whereby with (for example), monitor and/or optimize signal and/or power efficiency.
In another embodiment, biometric monitoring device of the invention may include comprising multiple sensors (such as optics,Acoustics, pressure, electricity (for example, EKG) and movement) heart rate monitoring system and merge the two in these sensors or bothAbove information is to provide the estimation of heart rate and/or mitigate the noise from exercise induced.
In addition to rhythm of the heart (or the monitoring of other biometrics) or replace rhythm of the heart (or the monitoring of other biometrics),In one embodiment, biometric monitoring device includes optical sensor to track or detect the time of ultraviolet exposure and holdContinuous time, total outdoor exposure, light source type and the light source (fluorescent lamp exposure, incandescent lamp bulb exposure, halogen lamp etc.) are heldContinuous time and intensity are exposed to TV (based on lamp type and flashing rate) (no matter user is indoors or in outdoor), the same dayTime and position based on striation part.In one embodiment, UV detection sensor can be by as photodetector drivesThe LED emitter of reverse bias forms.Thus the photoelectric current that detector generates can pass through the capacitor of (for example) measurement LED(alternatively, shunt capacitor) discharges the time it takes to characterize.
All optical sensors can be used together to improve the detection of data as described above with other sensorsOr the detection for expanding other types of physiology or environmental data.
In the case where biometric monitoring device includes audio or passive sonic transducer, described device can containing one orMore than one passive sonic transducer, the passive sonic transducer detect sound and pressure and may include, but are not limited to microphone, pressureConductive film etc..The sonic transducer can be placed on one or more sides of described device, comprising touching or towards skinSide (skin side) and Environment Oriented side (ambient side).
Biometric monitoring device of the invention also may include electrodermal reaction (GSR) circuit to measure the skin of user to feelingsThe reaction of thread and physical stimulation or physiological change (for example, transformation of sleep stage).In one embodiment, the present invention is to be incorporated toThere are the wrist or arm dress formula device of the band being made of conductive rubber or fabric, so that electrodermal reaction electrode can be hidden in band.Due toElectrodermal reaction circuit can be subjected to change temperature and environmental condition, therefore its also may include enable the circuit calibrated automatically, such asWith allow known resistance device real-time measurement with characterize electrodermal reaction circuit response application on human skin/electrode path in parallel or seriesTwo or more changeable reference resistors.Reference resistor can switch to outside measuring route neutralization, so that its independenceIt ground and/or is simultaneously measured with application on human skin.
Skin side senser will test any kind of sound transmitted via body, and sensor may be disposed to optimizeThe array or pattern of both SNR and power consumption.The detectable breathing (by listening lung) of these sensors, Breathiness (breathe, beatSnore) and problem, heart rate (listening heartbeat), user voice (via the sound transmitted from the intracorporal vocal cords of body).
Environmental sensor
An environmental sensor, some environmental sensors in following environmental sensor can be used in monitoring device of the inventionOr whole environmental sensors (for example) to obtain environmental data, include the environmental data summarized in following table.The monitoringDevice is not limited to the number or type of sensor as specified below, and its for obtaining the environmental data summarized in following table can be usedIts sensor.All combinations and displacement of environmental sensor and/or environmental data are intended to fall within the scope of the invention.SeparatelyOutside, described device can from respective sensor output data export environmental data, but be not limited to can derived from the sensor ringThe type of border data.
It is apparent that monitoring device of the invention can be one of environmental sensor described herein or one or more ofEither whole one of environmental sensors and biosensor described herein or one or more of or whole physiology passSensor.In fact, any sensor that is currently known or developing later can be used to obtain herein in biometric monitoring deviceAny or all of environmental data and physiological data in described environmental data and physiological data, all environmental datas and physiologyData are intended to fall within the scope of the invention.
In one embodiment, for example, monitoring device may include being placed in or in the inside of device housingHeight flowmeter sensor.(referring to, for example, Figure 25 and 26).In this case, device housing can have the inside for allowing deviceThe venthole of measurement, detection, sampling and/or any change of experience external pressure.In one embodiment, the venthole is anti-Sealing enters device while promoting that the change of pressure is measured, detects and/or sampled via height flowmeter sensor.Citing comesIt says, the outer surface of biometric monitoring device may include venthole type configuration or framework (for example, GoreTMVenthole), thisAllow the shell (this allows altimeter sensor measurement, detection and/or the change of sampling pressure) of surrounding air in-out apparatus, butReduce, prevent water into device housing and other Liquid Penetrants and/or minimize the infiltration.
In one embodiment, height flowmeter sensor can be filled with gel, this allows sensor to undergo pressure on the outside of gelPower changes.The use of gel-filled altimeter can assign device in the case where the venthole sealed with or without environmentThe environmental protection of higher level.Described device can have higher tolerance rate by gel-filled altimeter in following position,The position including but not limited to those of high humility position, washing machine, dish-washing machine, dryer, vaporium, shower room,Any position that swimming pool and described device are likely to be exposed at moisture, are exposed to liquid or are immersed in liquid.
Sensor integration/signal processing
The data from two or more sensors can be used to calculate pair in biometric monitoring device of the inventionPhysiology or environmental data are answered, it is such as visible (for example, from two or more biographies used in combination in the following tableThe data of sensor).Described device may include, but are not limited to the number, type or combination of sensor as specified below.In addition, describedDevice can combine from respective sensor and export included data, but be not limited to that the data calculated can be combined according to respective sensorNumber or type.
In one embodiment, device also may include near-field communication (NFC) receiver/transmitter to detect another deviceIt is close, such as mobile phone.When keep device close or it is detectable close to second device when, can trigger new in second deviceFunctional beginning is (for example, the radio of the unlatching and physiological data of " application " on mobile phone from device to second deviceIt is synchronous).(referring to, for example, Figure 16).In fact, biometric monitoring device of the invention implementable 5 days March in 2012Described in the U.S. provisional patent application cases 61/606,559 filed an application and/or in illustrated circuit and technologyAny one, U.S. provisional patent application cases entitled " near field communication system and its operating method (the Near FieldCommunication System, and Method of Operating Same) ", inventor：James Parker (JamesPark) (content of the U.S. provisional patent application cases is incorporated herein by reference).
In another embodiment, biometric monitoring device includes position sensor (for example, GPS circuitry) and heart rateSensor (for example, photoplethysmography circuit) to generate GPS or location dependent data and heart rate related data respectively.(referring to, for example, Figure 25 and 26).The biometric monitoring device can then merge, handle and/or combine from this twoThe data of a sensor/circuit with according to physiological data (for example, heart rate, stress, activity level, sleep length and/or heatAmount intake) (for example) determination, association and/or " mapping " geographic area.By this method, biometric monitoring device can recognizeIncrease or decrease the geographic area of measurable user metric, the measurable user metric including but not limited to heart rate, stress, it is livingDynamic horizontal, sleep length and/or calorie intake.
In addition to this or this is replaced, GPS related data and photoplethysmography phase can be used in biometric monitoring deviceThe heart according to activity level determination or association user is carried out in pass data (it is apparent that each of these person is regarded as data flow)Rate, for example, as acceleration, speed, position and/or the distance of traveling as user determined (as measured by GPS and/Or determined according to GPS related data).(referring to, for example, Figure 25 and 26).Herein, in one embodiment, it can be directed toThe heart rate of user's " plotting " or association as the function of speed, or can decompose data into different levels, including but not limited to sleepingFeel, rest, sitting quietly, moderate activity, activity and high activity.
In fact, biometric monitoring device can also be such that GPS related data has and its phase with for one group of predetermined conditionThe database of associated movable predetermined geographic locality is related.For example, (citing comes for activity determination and corresponding physiological classificationSay, heart rate classification) it may include the GPS coordinate for making the user corresponding to workout facilities, Health Club and/or the position of gymnasiumIt is related to physiological data.In these cases, automatic measurement and user during the practice of (for example) gymnasium can be shown inHeart rate.It is apparent that many physiological classifications may be based on GPS related data, comprising position, acceleration, height above sea level, distance and/Or speed.It can be compiled, develop and/or be stored in biometric monitoring device comprising this of geodata and physiological data databaseAnd/or on external computing device.In fact, in one embodiment, user can form location database or the addition of their ownOr location revision database is preferably to classify to its activity.
In another embodiment, user can wear multiple biometric monitoring devices simultaneously and (have described hereinAny one of feature).The device of this embodiment can be used wired or wireless circuit communicate with one another or communicated with remote-control device withCalculate (for example) can be difficult to or (for example) biometric or physiology quality that inaccurately calculate in other ways orQuantity, such as Pulse transit time.The use of multiple sensors can also change the accuracy and/or accuracy that biometric measuresInto for the accuracy and/or accuracy better than single sensor.For example, there is device can incite somebody to action on waist, wrist and ankleIt is the detection better than the single device in only one in those positions to the detection improvement that user takes a step.Can in a distributed manner or collectionChinese style method executes signal processing to described device to provide the improved measurement for the measurement for being better than single device.This signal processingIt can also remotely execute and back be transmitted to device after the treatment.
Handle Task Authorization
Biometric monitoring device may include one or more processors.(referring to, for example, Figure 29 is to 31).For example, independent utility processor can be used for storing and executing using by one or more sensor processor (processingThe processor of data from biosensor, environmental sensor and/or activity sensor) obtain and processing sensing dataApplication.In the situation that wherein there are multiple sensors, multiple sensor processors also may be present.Application processor can also haveThere is the sensor for being directly connected to it.Sensors & Application processor can be used as independent discrete chip and there is or be present in identical warpIt encapsulates in chip (multi-core).One device can have a single application processor or an application processor and sensor processor,Or multiple application processors and sensor processor.
In one embodiment, sensor encapsulation can be placed on the daughter board comprising simulated assembly.This plate can have usuallySome electronic devices in electronic device based on main PCB, such as, but not limited to：Transimpedance amplifier, filter circuit, electricityTranslational shifting device, sampling and holding circuit and micro controller unit.This, which is configured, allows daughter board via (except any required electric power or connecingGround connection except) number connection and non-analog connection use and be connected to main PCB.Number connection can have better than analog submoduleA variety of advantages of PCB connection or main PCB connection, including but not limited to：The reduction of the number of the reduction of noise and required cable.SonPlate can be connected to mainboard via the use of flexible cable or one group of electric wire.
Multiple applications can be stored on application processor.Using can be by the executable code and data group for the applicationAt, but it is not limited to these executable codes and data.Data can be by executing application required figure or other information and/or by describedComposition is exported using the information of generation.Executable code and data for the application both may reside within application processorOn, or data for the application can be stored in external memory and retrieve from external memory.External memory may includeBut it is not limited to NAND Flash, NOR quick flashing, the quick flashing on another processor, other solid-state storage devices, mechanical hard disk or CDAnd/or MRAM.
Executable code for application also can be stored in external memory.When request executes in application, application processorExecutable code and/or data are retrieved from external memory and execute it.Executable code can either temporarily or permanently be stored in and answerWith on the memory or storage device of processor.This allows to request next execution to execute the application quickly, this is becauseEliminate searching step.When request executes in application, application processor can retrieve all executable codes or executable code of applicationPart.In the situation of the part of retrieval executable code, a part of the executable code needed for only retrieving at that time.This allows to holdRow is greater than the application of the memory or storage device of application processor.
Application processor can also have memory protection feature to prevent using rewriting, damage, interruption, block or with otherMode interferes other components of other application, sensing system, application processor or system and/or sensor device.
Using can via a variety of wired, wireless, optics, capacitive character mechanism (including but not limited to：USB, Wi-Fi, bluetooth,Bluetooth Low Energy, NFC, RFID and Zigbee) it is loaded on application processor or any external memory.
In one embodiment, using can with electronic signature cryptographically sign.Therefore, application processor can holding applicationRow, which is constrained in, has the application of those of correct signature.
The method of wearable device
Biometric monitoring device may include in the normal operation period promote secure the device to user body (orClothes) size and shape shell, wherein when being coupled to user, described device immeasurably or appreciably influences useThe activity at family.The data obtained are wanted depending on the particular sensor encapsulation being integrated into described device and user, it can be differentMode wearable device.
User can be by being flexible and be easy to fit to the use of band of user whereby and supervise biometric of the inventionIt surveys one of device or one or more of is worn on its wrist or ankle (or arm or leg).The band can have adjustable complete cycleIt is long, so that it be allowed to be assembled to user.The band can be constructed by the material shunk when exposed to heat, so that user be allowed to be formedCustom fit.The band can with " electronics " items of biometric monitoring device, and when needing, alternatively.
In a preferred embodiment, biometric monitoring device is made of two primary clusterings：Main body (contains " electronics devicePart ") and band (promotion attaches a device to user).The main body may include shell (for example, by plastics or plastic materialsIt is made) and from main body extension tab outstanding (for example, being made of metal or metal group material).(referring to, for example,Fig. 4 is to 7).The band (for example, being made of thermoplastic urethane) mechanically or is adhesively attached to main body.The band can be extended out the perimeter sub-fraction of the wrist of user.The distal end of urethanes band can with Velcro, hook and/orD-ring is wound with ring on side and is then back attached to the cyclic spring fabric band connection of its own.In this embodiment,Close mechanism will allow user to carry out infiniband length adjustment (different from index hole and mechanical buckle closure).Velcro or fabric can be withIt is allowed to be replaced (for example, if it is worn or is not intended to wear before the validity period of device or end-of-life)Mode be attached to band.In one embodiment, Velcro or fabric will by screw or rivet and/or glue, adhesive and/orSnap ring is attached to band.
Biometric monitoring device of the invention can also integrate and be worn on necklace, chest strap, brassiere, eyeshade, glasses, earringsOr in tape.Described device can construct by this method：The sensor encapsulation of biometric monitoring device/be partially it is dismountable andIt can be worn in a manner of any number kind, including but not limited to those listed above mode.
In another embodiment, biometric monitoring device of the invention can be clamped to clothing or be placed in clothes (exampleSuch as, pocket) or attachment (for example, handbag, knapsack, wallet) in.Since biometric monitoring device can keep off the skin of userSkin, therefore in the embodiment comprising heart rate measurement, the measurement can be by user manually by device as AD HOC (exampleIt such as, may be in the case where heart rate sensor be embedded in button/sensor, by lower button, covering capacitive touch sensor etc.)In or once user is against skin and apparatus for placing (for example, finger is put into optics heart rate sensor) is just automatically with discrete" on-demand " situation obtains.
The user interface of device
Biometric monitoring device may include the one or more kinds of methods locally or remotely interacted with device.
In one embodiment, biometric monitoring device can intuitively convey data via digital display.This displayAny one or more of display technology can be used in the physical embodiments of device, including but not limited to：LED, LCD, AMOLED, electronicsInk, Sharp (Sharp) display technology, graphic alphanumeric display and other display technologies (such as TN, HTN, STN, FSTN,TFT, IPS and OLET) one of or it is one or more of.This display can show in described device local acquired or be storedData can show other devices or the long-range acquired data of Internet service.Sensor (citing can be used in described deviceFor, surrounding light sensor, i.e. " ALS ") control or adjust screen backlight.For example, described aobvious in poorly lit situationShow that device can be dimness to save battery life, and in bright illumination situations, display can increase its brightness, so that it is relatively easy toIt is read by a user.
In another embodiment, device can be used it is monochromatic or it is multi-colored led come instruction device state.The state of device instructionIt may include, but are not limited to biometric state (such as heart rate) or application state (such as the incoming message for having realized target).TheseState can be via the color of LED, connection, shutdown, intermediate intensity, pulse (and/or its rate) and/or from complete switching off maximumThe pattern of the luminous intensity of brightness and indicate.In one embodiment, LED can be modulated by the phase and frequency of the heart rate of userIts intensity and/or color.
In a preferred embodiment, the use of e-ink type display or technology will allow display maintenance withoutThe battery that will appear non-reflective display exhausts.This " be always turned on " functionality can (for example) wherein user can only shoot a glance at onePleasant user's experience is provided in the situation of the wrist-watch application of time from the point of view of eye device.Electronic ink display is not alwaysMake to show content in the case that the battery life of device is impaired, so that user be allowed to see the time just as its band conventional wristwatch.
Device can show use using lamp (such as LED) with the amplitude of the light of the frequency transmitting of the heart rate of user by modulatingThe heart rate at family.Described device can according to the change (for example, progress bar) of heart rate via the color (for example, green, red) of LED orSequence that LED is lighted and describe heart rate area (for example, aerobic, anaerobic).Described device can integrate or be incorporated into another device or knotIt communicates in structure (for example, glasses or goggles) or with glasses or goggles this information is shown to user.
Biometric monitoring device can also via the physical motion of device by information conveyance to user.Physics mobile deviceOne of method this embodiment is the use that vibration induces motor (for example, electric motor of shaker/vibrating motor).The device can be singleSolely or in conjunction with multiple exercise induced technologies it is used together the method.
Described device can via audio by information conveyance to user.Loudspeaker can via audio tones, voice, song or itsIts sound uses transport information.
These three information communicating methods (that is, vision, movement and sense of hearing) can individually or jointly each other or another communication partyMethod is used together to transmit any one of following information or more persons：
User needs to wake up in specific time
User should wake up when particular sleep stage at which
User should go to bed in specific time
User should at which in particular sleep stage and in by user wish wake up earliest and latest time limitPreselected time window in when wake up.
Receive Email
User is inactive to reach the specific time period.It is apparent that this can be with picture (for example) calendar of conference or sleepThe other application of tracking application is integrated with the behavior of obstruction, reduction or the inactive warning of adjustment.
Activity reaches the specific time period to user
User has agreement or calendar event
User has reached specific activities measurement
User has advanced specific range
User has reached specific mile speed
User has reached specific speed
User has accumulated specific elevation gain
User has carried out specific step number
User has obtained heart rate measurement in the recent period
The heart rate of user has reached specified level
User has particular value or in particular range normal cardiac rate, movable heart rate or resting heart rate
The heart rate of user has entered or beyond specific objective range or training center
User has new heart rate " area " target to be realized, such as carries out for running, cycling, swimming activityIn the situation of heart rate area training
User encloses or is completed special fixing turn in swimming pool middle reaches one
External device (ED), which has, needs to be transmitted to the information of user, for example, Inbound Calls or more than any one of alert
User has reached specific tired target or the limit.In one embodiment, fatigue can be anti-via heart rate, skin electricityAnswer, the combination of motion sensor and/or breath data and determine
These examples are for illustrate purposes and (for example, providing and being not intended to limitation can be transmitted by deviceTo user) information range.Note that can obtain from first device and/or one or more auxiliary devices for determiningWhether satisfaction warning data.Described device itself can be determined whether the criterion for having met warning.Alternatively, being communicated with described deviceComputing device (such as server and/or mobile phone) can be determined when to alert.In view of the present invention, fieldsTechnical staff can be envisaged that device can be transmitted to the other information of user.For example, when meeting target, device can be logical with userLetter.Criterion for meeting this target may be based on physiology, situation and environmental sensor on first device and/or from oneOr other sensing datas of more than one auxiliary device.The target can be set by the user or can by device itself and/or withAnother computing device (such as server) setting of described device communication.In an exemplary embodiment, when meeting biometric meshWhen mark, device can vibrate.
Biometric monitoring device of the invention can be equipped with wireless and/or wire communication circuit with real on auxiliary deviceWhen show data.For example, the present invention can give the user via Bluetooth Low Energy and mobile phone communicationsHeart rate, heart rate variability and/or stress Real-time Feedback.The present invention can instruct or award user with mitigate stress ad hoc fashion asthma" point " of gas.It stress can be via heart rate, heart rate variability, skin temperature, the change of movement-activity data and/or electrodermal reactionAnd quantifies or assess.
Biometric monitoring device can receive from the user via one or more Local or Remote input methodsInput.A sensor or one group of sensor can be used to be transformed into the movement of user for this embodiment of local user's inputTo the order of device.These movement may include but can be not limited to tapping, rotation wrist, make one or more contraction of muscle andSwimming.Another user's input method can be the use of the type via button, but be not limited to Types Below：Capacitive touch is pressedButton, capacitive screens and mechanical button.In one embodiment, user interface buttons can be made of metal.Electricity is used in screenIt, can be in the case where not having intervention event (such as pushing physical button) always to any in the situation of capacitive touch detectionGesture or input are sampled and are easy to respond any gesture or input.Described device can also make via voice commandWith and inputted.All these input methods can be integrated into device or be integrated into local can be via wired or wireless connectionIn the remote-control device communicated with described device.In addition, user may also be able to manipulate described device via remote-control device.In a realityIt applies in example, this remote-control device can have internet connection.
In one embodiment, biometric monitoring device of the invention is operable as wrist dress formula vibration alarming with quietlyUser is waken up from sleep.Biometric monitoring device can be via heart rate, heart rate variability, electrodermal reaction, motion sensing (exampleSuch as, accelerometer, gyroscope, magnetometer) and one of skin temperature or combinations thereof the sleep quality of tracking user, wake up weekPhase, Sleep latency, Sleep efficiency, sleep stage (for example, deep sleep is to REM) and/or other sleep calculations of correlation.User canSpecified wanted time of fire alarming and the present invention can be used sleep measurement one of or it is one or more of come determine wake up user it is preferredTime.In one embodiment, when vibration alarming act on when, user can by pat or tapping device (for example, this viaMotion sensor, pressure/force sensor and/or capacitive touch sensor in device and detect) and cause its suspend mode orShutdown.In one embodiment, device can attempt to start by specific user's sleep stage before alarm settings or timeSmall vibration and arouse user at optimum point in sleep cycle.When user is towards awake or gradually advance towards alarm settingsWhen, the intensity or conspicuousness of vibration can be gradually increased.(referring to, for example, Figure 14).
In another aspect, optical sensor (such as optics heart rate monitor on plate can be used in biometric monitoring deviceIn component) and configure or communication.
It is wirelessly connected and data is transmitted
Biometric monitoring device of the invention may include being used for transmission and receiving from internet and/or other devicesThe wireless communication means of information.The wireless communication can be by one or more means (such as bluetooth, ANT, WLAN, electric powerLine network connection and mobile telephone network) composition.These be provide and be not excluded for as example it is existing or not yet invent itsIts wireless communications method.
Being wirelessly connected is two ways.Device can by its data transmit, transmit and/or be pushed to other peripheral units and/Or internet.Device can also receive, request and/or pull data from other peripheral units and/or internet.
Biometric monitoring device may act as relay with provide other devices to each other or to internet communication.It liftsFor example, device can be connected to internet via WLAN, but be further equipped with ANT radio.ANT device can be communicated with described deviceIts data is transferred to internet (and vice versa) via the WLAN of described device.As another example, described device canEquipped with bluetooth.If the smart phone for enabling bluetooth touches device, described device can be via the mobile electricity of smart phoneTelephone network transfers data to internet or receives data from internet.Data from another device also can be transmitted describedDevice is simultaneously stored (and vice versa) or is transmitted in the time later.
The present invention also may include that flow-type receives or transmit web page contents for showing in biometric monitoring device.WithUnder be representative instance：
It is measured by device but the remotely heart rate stored and/or the history chart of other data
Measured by other devices and/or remotely (for example, fitbit.com) storage User Activity and/or consumedFood and/or dormant data history chart
The history chart of the data of the other tracking users remotely stored.Example includes heart rate, blood pressure, arterial stiffnessDegree, blood glucose level, cholesterol, TV viewing duration, the duration of playing video game, mood etc.
One in heart rate, Current body mass, weight targets, food intake, activity, sleep based on user and other dataPerson or one or more of guidance and/or diet data.
User gradually advances towards heart rate, weight, activity, sleep and/or other targets.
To describe summary statistics, figure, mark and/or the measurement (for example, " grade ") of aforementioned data
The aforementioned data of user and its " friend " are shown to by similar device and/or tracking
Social content, such as push away special source (Twitter feed), instant message and/or types of facial makeup in Beijing operas net (Facebook) and update
Other online contents, for example, newspaper article, constellation story, weather forecast, the source RSS, caricature, cross-word puzzle, pointSeries advertisements, Stock Report and website
Email message and schedule
Content can be delivered to biometric monitoring device according to different situations.For example, in the morning, before can be together with userThe dormant data at one night display together news and weather forecast.At night, the same day movable daily summary can be shown.
The present invention also may include that NFC, RFID or the functional other short-distance radios that can be used for originating in other devices are logicalBelieve circuit.For example, the present invention can be equipped with NFC antenna, so that moving when user puts it to and is immediately bordering on mobile phoneApplication is automatically turned on mobile phone.
These examples be for illustrate purposes and provide and be not intended to limitation can by described device transmit, receive orAny intermediate treatment that may occur during the range of the data of display or herein transmission and display.In view of the present invention/application case,Many other data can be envisaged in those skilled in the art.
Charging and data transmission
Biometric monitoring device can be used wired connection to carry out charging to internal rechargeable batteries and/or by dataIt is transmitted to host apparatus, such as laptop computer or mobile phone.In one embodiment, magnet can be used in described deviceUser is helped to be directed at device with depressed place or cable.It can on the magnetic field strategy of the magnet in magnet and device itself in depressed place or cableThe oriented power to force device autoregistration and offer holding meanss are aligned with depressed place or cable.The magnet is also acted as fillingElectricity or the conductive contact of data transmission.In another embodiment, alnico magnets are only used in depressed place or cable side, rather than dressIt sets in itself.This can improve the performance of described device in the case where biometric monitoring device uses magnetometer.In a deviceIn the case where with magnet, the high field of neighbouring alnico magnets can increase the difficulty that magnetometer accurately measures earth magnetic field.
In another embodiment, described device can contain one or more electromagnet in apparatus main body.For fillingThe charger or depressed place of electricity and data transmission will also contain electromagnet and/or alnico magnets.Described device can be only at it close to fillingIts electromagnet is connected when electric appliance or depressed place.Believe in its magnetic field that the alnico magnets in charger or depressed place can be found by using magnetometerNumber and detect the close of depressed place.Alternatively, it can be referred to by measuring the received signal intensity of the wireless signal from charger or depressed placeShow or RSSI and detect the close of charger.The electromagnet can be reversed, thus be formed in device do not need charging, it is synchronous whenOr repel the power of described device from charging cable or depressed place when synchronous or charging is completed in it.
Configurable application function
In some embodiments, biometric monitoring device of the invention may include wrist-watch sample apparent size and/or bracelet,Armband or anklet apparent size and " application " for being programmed with unlatching particular functionality and/or display specific information.Using can lead toCross multiple means or technology and open or close, whereby in the device side formed the pressure signal that detects of altimeter or it is close withOne application or one group are using associated NFC label apparatus for placing, the multiple means or technology including but not limited to by pressingButton, using capacitive touch sensor, execute gesture that accelerometer detects, be moved to GPS or motion sensor senses arrivePosition, pressing device main body.Using can also be opened or closed by specific environment or physiological condition automatic trigger, include but notIt is limited to：High heart rate uses the detection (for example, to open swimming application) to water of wet sensor, the specific time on the same dayIt (for example, to open sleep tracking application at night), the change of pressure and takes off or the kinetic characteristic landed is to openOpen or close " aircraft " mode application.Using can also be by meeting multiple conditions simultaneously and open or close.For example, ifAccelerometer detects that user is just running and user's push button, then it can open pedometer application, altimeter data is collectedUsing and/or display.It detects in swimming and another situation that user presses same button, can open in wherein accelerometerIt opens circle and counts application.
In one embodiment, described device can have the swimming tracing mode that can be opened and starting swimming application.In this mode, the motion sensor of device and/or magnetometer can be used for detecting swimming position, divide swimming position typeClass, detection swim ring number and other calculations of correlation, such as posture efficiency, individual pen time, speed, distance and caloric burn.ByThe direction of magnetometer instruction changes the difference that can be used for detecting circle turning method.In a preferred embodiment, motion sensor is come fromAnd/or the data of pressure sensor can be used for detecting posture.
In another embodiment, cycling application can by close to be located at bicycle on, on the mounting on bicycle orNFC or RFID mark in position (including but not limited to bicycle parking rack or bicycle storing facility) associated with bicycleIt signs mobile device and opens.(referring to, for example, Figure 16).The application opened can be used with include commonly used in determination butIt is not limited to the different algorithm of the measurement of the elevation of the calorie of burning, the distance of traveling and acquisition.The application can also detectIt is turned on when to wireless bicycle sensor (including but not limited to wheel detector, GPS, rhythm sensor or power meter).InstituteStating device then can show and/or record the data from wireless bicycle sensor or bicycle sensor.
Additional application including but not limited to programmable or customizable watch face, stopwatch, music player controller (for example,Mp 3 player remotely controls), word message and/or Email display or " notifying device ", navigation guide needle, bicycle meterCalculation machine display (when communicating with independent or integrated GPS device, wheel detector or power meter), has been lain on the back at weight lifting trackerSeat represents tracker, chin-up represents tracker, resistance exercise form/practice tracker, golf swing analyzer,Swing motion detector, baseball of tennis (or other have racket movement) movement that swings/service analyzer, tennis tournament swings movementAnalyzer, delivery analyzer (for example, football, baseball), the physical activity intensity tracker organized are (for example, football, baseball, basketBall, vollyball, Association football), flying disc throw analyzer, food chewing detector, typewriting analyzer, inclination sensor, sleep matterAmount tracker, alarm clock, stress meter, stress/loosen biofeedback game (for example, it may be possible to the sense of hearing and/or visual cues are providedMobile phone combination with loosen take exercise in training user breathe), tracker of brushing teeth, rate tracker of having a meal is (for example, to be directed toFood intake counts or tableware is taken rate and the duration of mouth by tracking), drunkness or driving maneuver vehicle suitability refer toShow device (for example, via heart rate, heart rate variability, electrodermal reaction, paces analysis, riddling etc.), allergy tracker (for example, makingIt, may be in conjunction with the external season from (for example) internet with electrodermal reaction, heart rate, skin temperature, pollen sensing etc.Property anaphylactogen tracking；May determine user to the reaction of the anaphylactogen of particular form (for example, tree pollen) and warning user theseAnaphylactogen presence (for example, in season information, pollen track database or device or user used by home environmentSensor)), fever tracker (for example, measurement fever, flu or other diseases risk, beginning or deterioration, season may be combinedThe feedback that data, disease database, user location and/or user provide come together to assess about user specified disease (for example,Influenza) propagation, thereby increases and it is possible to provide or suggest work or movable restraining in response), electronic game, caffeine influence trackingDevice is (for example, short-term or long-term in response to intake or the restraining of coffee, tea, drinks and/or other drinks containing caffeineMonitoring for example heart rate, heart rate variability, electrodermal reaction, skin temperature, blood pressure, stress, sleep and/or movable physiological reaction),Drug influence tracker (for example, be similar to previously mentioned caffeine tracker, but related with other interventions, no matter other JieEnter medical medicine or health medicine, such as alcohol, tobacco product etc.), endurance exercise guidance (for example, using from (citingFor) history exercise activity (for example, long-distance running, leg speed), heart rate, heart rate variability, health/illness/stress/number of fever conditionRecommend or provide running/cycling/trip according to target (such as marathon, triathlon or customization target) is specified according to userSwim intensity, duration or the quantitative curve of practice, or suggest the restraining or delay of practice), weight and/or body composition, bloodPressure, blood glucose, food intake or calorie balance tracker are (for example, notify user that it can consume how many calorie to maintain or realExisting weight), pedometer and fingernail biting detector.In some cases, the application can only rely upon processing capacity of the inventionAnd sensor.In other situations, the letter from an external device (ED) or one group of external device (ED) can be merged or only be shown to the applicationBreath, including but not limited to heart rate band, GPS range tracking element, body composition ratio, blood pressure monitor, blood glucose monitor, wrist-watch,Smartwatch, mobile communications device (such as smart phone or tablet computer) or server.
In one embodiment, the portable metering device can control the music player on auxiliary device.It is controllableMusic player aspect including but not limited to volume, track selection and/or playlist, forward skip or skip backward,The F.F. or retrogressing of track, the rhythm of track and music player balanced device.The control of music player can be defeated via userIt is entering or automatic based on physiology, environment or context data.For example, user can be by connecing via the user on deviceMouth selects track and selects and play the track on its smart phone.In another example, portable metering device can be based on useThe activity level (activity level calculated according to device sensing data) at family and selects appropriate track automatically.This can be used for helpingUser is motivated to maintain particular activity level.For example, if user continues to run or wishes its heart rate being maintained at specific modelIn enclosing, then described device can play the sound of rising or higher tempo in the case where its heart rate is lower than the range that it is targetRail.
The described herein and many inventions of diagram illustrating.Although described and illustrated the particular embodiment of the present invention,Feature, attribute and advantage, it should be appreciated that many other and different and/or similar embodiment of the invention, feature, attribute andAdvantage becomes apparent according to explanation and diagram.Therefore, the above embodiment of the present invention is only exemplary.It is not intended to forIt is exhaustive or limit the invention to revealed exact form, technology, material and/or configuration.It can make according to the present inventionMany modifications and variation.It should be understood that can go out for drill using other embodiments and without departing substantially from the scope of the present inventionWork changes.Therefore, the scope of the present invention is not limited only to above description, this is because presenting for the purpose of diagram and explanationState the explanation of embodiment.
Importantly, the present invention is also not necessarily limited to these aspects and/or embodiment neither limited to any single aspect or embodimentAny combination and/or displacement.In addition, can individually or jointly one of other aspects and/or embodiment of the invention orIt is one or more of that each of aspect and/or embodiment of the invention is used together.For brevity, will no longer divide hereinThe many displacements and combination in those displacements and combination are not discussed and/or illustrate in detail.
Among others, the term in claims " calculating (calculate) " and other forms are (that is, calculate(calculating, calculated and calculation)) mean to calculate (calculate), assessment (assesses), determine(determine) and/or estimation (estimate) and its other forms that wait.In addition, among others, the art in claimsLanguage " light pipe " (or its plural form) means light pipe, light pipe, light path or preferentially along predefined paths (for example, by lightThe path that the geometry and/or material of pipe define) guidance or transmitted light other translucent constructions.In addition, in claimsIn, among others, " being scattered " means to be scattered and/or through reflecting.
It is apparent that term " first " herein, " second " etc. are not offered as any order, quantity or importance, andIt is for distinguishing an element and another element.In addition, in detail in the claims, term herein " one (a and an) " not tableShow the limitation to quantity, but indicates that there are at least one of mentioned items.