Abstract: A personal hygiene device may have a main body with an absorbent material configured to absorb a fluid, a sensor disposed within the main body, and a controller configured to communicate with the sensor. The sensor has a conductor and an insulator containing at least a portion of the conductor, and the sensor is configured to detect a first electrical value and a second electrical value that is different from the first electrical value. The sensor is also configured to transmit a signal to the controller upon detection of the second electrical value.

Abstract: A dog toilet includes: a receptacle in which a dog urinates; a urination detection sensor that includes a first electrode and a second electrode; and an operating device that operates based on a conducting state of the first electrode and the second electrode of the urination detection sensor. At least one of the first electrode and the second electrode is spaced apart from the receptacle. The dog toilet further includes an insulating member arranged between the receptacle and at least one of the first electrode and the second electrode.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates generally to a wearable device, and more specifically to a wearable device for detecting biological events, monitoring health condition of an individual, and for providing automatic alerts and analytics reporting. An exemplary wearable device for monitoring health condition of an individual comprises a puck component attachable to the individual's clothing, wherein the puck component comprises a circuit of a moisture sensor; a strip component configured to be placed within the individual's clothing, wherein a proximal end portion of the strip comprises a pair of conductive pads, and wherein the pair of conductive pads is configured to interface with the circuit of the moisture sensor while the proximal end portion of the strip is enclosed within the puck via a coupling mechanism.

Abstract: A sensor for monitoring wetness in a diaper or other absorbent article includes a housing that attaches to the absorbent article. The sensor may include inner and outer housing portions that capture an edge of the absorbent article between the housings. The sensor may include contacts that electrically connect with a pair of contact strips embedded in the absorbent article. The distance between the embedded strips may vary depending on the size of the absorbent article. The sensor may include multiple pairs of contacts that are spaced apart to match the distance between the contact strips for the variously sized absorbent articles. In this way, depending on the pair of contacts connected to the contact strips, the sensor may indicate the size of the absorbent article. The sensor may have a housing with a cavity and a lid that closes the cavity. The lid may be secured with a latch.

Abstract: A liquid sensor for a diaper, and method of manufacturing the same are provided. The liquid sensor includes a plurality of electrochemical cells in series connection. Each of the plurality of electrochemical cells includes an anode, a cathode and a liquid-porous layer including an electrolyte solution. The liquid-porous layer electrically connects the anode to the cathode such that each cell has a respective predetermined potential difference across the cell. Two or more of the plurality of electrochemical cells are operable to be electrically connected by a liquid to form a single electrochemical cell having a potential difference lower than the sum of the predetermined potential differences of the two or more electrochemical cells.

Abstract: A notification system is provided that provides notification of patient events such as movement and/or incontinence. The notification system provides for a plurality of different pressure sensor pads as well as an incontinence pad to be used in association with a single monitor.

Abstract: An aspect of the invention is a liquid sensor having a galvanically energizable power source capable of activating a remotely detectable signal in response to liquid. In a preferred embodiment, a liquid sensor includes a plurality of electrodes, a circuit, and a transmitter thereon. The electrodes are coupled to generate electrical power when in contact with liquid. The circuit is electrically connected to the electrodes so as to be activated by the electrical power, detect an electrical parameter of the electrical power, and generate a plurality of data packets indicating a degree of wetness corresponding to the detected electrical parameter. The transmitter is electrically coupled to the circuit to receive the plurality of data packets and transmit representations of the plurality of data packets as electromagnetic signals. Other aspects include a liquid absorbent wetness sensor and a computer-based wetness monitoring system, and method of detecting liquid.

Abstract: A clip-on module having a specialized housing design, probe contacts, switches, various advertising modes, and various configurations of signal repeaters is disclosed. The module is utilized via attachment to a specialized garment worn by a human patient. To properly apply the housing to the garment, a user will squeeze the module to open using tactile features embedded within the housing, locate the module, and then press-clamp the module to close and attach it. A plurality of probe contacts within the module have sharpness requirements for penetrating one or more layers of the garment while still maintaining low resistance, and will work with a backing material for probe.

Abstract: A notification device is provided that includes a sensor pad, and an electronics module generates one or more notifications in response to signals received from the sensor pad. In a first embodiment, the sensor pad includes a pressure sensor for sensing pressure applied by a patient and generating a pressure signal, and conductive tracings for sensing moisture due to incontinence and generating a moisture detection signal when moisture is detected. In another embodiment, an absorbent sensor pad includes a sensor pad for sensing moisture and includes an absorbent chuck having a moisture-impermeable sheet with an absorbent material on an upper surface thereof, wherein the moisture-impermeable sheet has an aperture for receiving the sensor pad. The absorbent sensor pad may be provided in the form of a diaper.

Abstract: A sensor for monitoring wetness in a diaper or other absorbent article includes a housing that attaches to the absorbent article. The sensor may include inner and outer housing portions that capture an edge of the absorbent article between the housings. The sensor may include contacts that electrically connect with a pair of contact strips embedded in the absorbent article. The distance between the embedded strips may vary depending on the size of the absorbent article. The sensor may include multiple pairs of contacts that are spaced apart to match the distance between the contact strips for the variously sized absorbent articles. In this way, depending on the pair of contacts connected to the contact strips, the sensor may indicate the size of the absorbent article.

Abstract: A sensor system for detecting a property of or within an absorbent article may comprise an absorbent article and a sensor. The absorbent article may comprise a garment-facing layer and an absorbent assembly. The sensor may be disposed in and/or on the absorbent article. The sensor may be separable from the absorbent article. The sensor may be configured to sense a change in condition within the absorbent article.

Abstract: A liquid sensor for a diaper, and method of manufacturing the same are provided. The liquid sensor includes a plurality of electrochemical cells in series connection. Each of the plurality of electrochemical cells includes an anode, a cathode and a liquid-porous layer including an electrolyte solution. The liquid-porous layer electrically connects the anode to the cathode such that each cell has a respective predetermined potential difference across the cell. Two or more of the plurality of electrochemical cells are operable to be electrically connected by a liquid to form a single electrochemical cell having a potential difference lower than the sum of the predetermined potential differences of the two or more electrochemical cells.

Abstract: Disposable absorbent products are stacked along a stacking axis. Each of a first plurality of folded disposable absorbent products is folded into at least two panels so as to define first and second ends and front and back oppositely-facing exterior faces of each of the first plurality of folded products, with the respective front faces of the first plurality of folded products facing a common, first direction. At least one folded disposable absorbent product is folded substantially in the same manner as the first plurality of folded products to thereby define first and second ends and front and back oppositely-facing exterior faces of that at least one folded product, with the front face of that at least one folded product facing a second direction opposite from the first direction.

Abstract: A re-usable electronics device is detachably coupled with a harness physically connected with an article whose wetness condition is to be detected. The harness comprises a set of first conductors, and the re-usable electronics device comprises a set of second conductors on its outer surface such that when the re-usable electronics device is operatively coupled with the harness by insertion in a pouch of the harness, the set of first conductors make electrical contact with the set of second conductors enabling detection of change in voltage across at least one pair of the first conductor above a threshold value. The change in the voltage occurs due to change in resistance of resistance based wetness sensors configured with the harness and operatively coupled to the set of first conductors. Upon detection of the change, the device transmits a notification indicating wetness of the article.

Abstract: Some embodiments of an infusion pump system may be configured to detect when at least one component of the pump system is exposed to a moisture level above a threshold level. In particular embodiments, the infusion pump system can be equipped with a moisture level detection system that can sense when a moisture level above the threshold level has occurred to the pump device, which thereby enables the infusion pump system to initiate one or more patient safety countermeasures.

Abstract: One embodiment of a method of interrogating a sensor to detect the presence of moisture on an occupant support comprises the steps of A) providing a moisture responsive sensor in a surveillance zone of the occupant support, the sensor being tuned to a center frequency; B) exciting the sensor with an electromagnetic signal having a frequency approximately equal to the center frequency; C) monitoring for a center frequency response from the sensor; D) comparing the center frequency response to an expected center frequency response; and E) if the center frequency response compares favorably to an expected center frequency response, issuing a first output consistent with the favorable comparison.

Abstract: A sensor for monitoring wetness in a diaper or other absorbent article includes a housing that attaches to the absorbent article. The sensor may include inner and outer housing portions that capture an edge of the absorbent article between the housings. The sensor may include contacts that electrically connect with a pair of contact strips embedded in the absorbent article. The distance between the embedded strips may vary depending on the size of the absorbent article. The sensor may include multiple pairs of contacts that are spaced apart to match the distance between the contact strips for the variously sized absorbent articles. In this way, depending on the pair of contacts connected to the contact strips, the sensor may indicate the size of the absorbent article.

Abstract: Disclosed is a fluid detection device including a fluid sensor positioned near a patient's body and providing a signal whether the sensor detects fluid from the patient's body; a casing surrounding the alarm and allowing the signal to be sensed by the patient; an alarm coupled to the fluid sensor, the alarm including one or more of: an audible signal sensible by the patient, a haptic signal sensible by the patient, a visible signal sensible by the patient through the casing; a casing surrounding the alarm and allowing the signal to be sensed by the patient; and a fastener coupled to the casing, adjustable to attach and remove from one or more of: the patient's body, the patient's clothing. The casing, when closed, may couple a power source to the alarm. Also included may be a human interface and other features. Also disclosed is a fluid detection method.

Abstract: A moisture detection system for use on a hospital bed includes a person support surface comprising a core layer and a ticking layer. The ticking layer has an inner surface facing the core layer and an outer surface. In one embodiment the moisture detection system also includes a moisture detection sheet which has at least one moisture sensor connected thereto. The sheet is configured to be mounted to at least one of A) the core layer, B) external to the outer surface and C) between the ticking layer and the core layer. A controller is in communication with the moisture detection sensor, and with at least one pre-existing pressure sensor. In another embodiment the moisture detection system includes a detection sheet comprising a fabric which is configured to sense moisture, pressure or both. A controller is in communication with the detection sheet.

Abstract: A method for indicating and alarming about wet level of a diaper involves using a humidity sensor to perform relative humidity detection on the diaper, when the detected relative humidity is below 50% rh˜60% rh, showing the diaper's wet level as 0% rh, and when the detected relative humidity is 85% rh˜95% rh or more, showing the diaper's wet level as 100% rh, wherein functional conversion is performed to convert the relative humidity ranging between 60% rh and 85% rh˜95% rh proportionally into the diaper's wet level between 0% rh and 100% rh.

Abstract: Sensor arrangement and method for monitoring a person with a sensor arrangement, which includes measuring electronics and a sensor structure that can be fitted onto a base. The sensor structure includes at least one sensor, and the arrangement determines, by the data measured by the measuring electronics and the sensor, a change in the moisture of the base and the presence of a person on the base.

Abstract: A wearable absorbent article includes a conductor arrangement. Including a plurality of elongate conductors, each conductor extending along an extension direction. At least some of the conductors have different lengths from each other in the respective extension directions. Those of the at least some of the conductors which have larger lengths in the respective extension directions have lower electrical resistances per unit length than those of the at least some of the conductors which have smaller lengths in the respective extension directions.

Abstract: An electronics enclosure has terminal conductors for contacting corresponding conductors in a receptacle when engaged with the receptacle. The electronics enclosure has a housing having first, second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth surface portions arranged to define the exterior of the housing. The receptacle engages and retains the corresponding electronics enclosure, the receptacle having terminal conductors for contacting corresponding conductors in the enclosure when engaged with the enclosure. The receptacle has a base surface along which the enclosure can translate in an engagement direction to engage the enclosure with the receptacle.

Abstract: A system and method for incorporating occupancy-detecting technology into furniture is provided. More particularly, the invention relates to detecting occupancy by a standalone capacitance detection device. The standalone capacitance detection device is configured for integration with any number of furniture items. Further, the detected capacitance may be used to determine commands for controlling a variety of devices associated with the standalone capacitance detection device. Additionally, methods for determining occupancy of a furniture item and a system for monitoring occupancy are described herein.

Abstract: Various embodiments provide an apparatus for a diaper. The apparatus has two electrodes and an electronic device. The electronic device is coupled to the two electrodes. The two electrodes are operable to generate a potential difference when they are electrically connected together by ionized liquid. The electronic device is operable to generate an alarm signal when the potential difference is generated. Various other embodiments relate to a corresponding system, diaper and method of manufacturing an electrode.

Abstract: A moisture detection apparatus can include a soft printed circuit board, a power supply, a processing unit, and a bendable body. The soft printed circuit board can include at least one capacitor. The power supply can be arranged to apply a voltage across the at least one capacitor. The processing unit can have one or more processors configured to detect a capacitance across the at least one capacitor and emit a moisture detection signal in response to a change the capacitance across the at least one capacitor. The soft printed circuit board is embedded in the bendable body. A kit can be comprised of the moisture detection and at least one bag assembly. Another kit can be comprised of the moisture detection and a receiving unit configured to receive the moisture detection signal.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for monitoring, diagnosing, and treating sleep disorders such as sleep terrors are provided, which may include any number of features. One feature is an apparatus configured to partially awaken a user to treat a sleep disorder. The apparatus can include one or more sensors configured to monitor a sleep parameter of the user, one or more therapeutic devices configured to apply a therapy to the user to partially awaken the user, and an electronic controller operatively coupled to the sensors and therapeutic devices to determine when to apply the therapy, and how to apply the therapy so as to only partially awaken the user.

Abstract: This is directed to an electronic device enclosure. The enclosure includes an outer periphery member forming an outer surface of a device, and to which an internal platform is connected. Electronic device components can be assembled to one or both surfaces of the internal platform. The enclosure can include front and back cover assemblies assembled to the opposite surfaces of the outer periphery member to retain electronic device components. One or both of the cover assemblies can include a window through which display circuitry can provide content to a user of the device.

Abstract: An intelligent monitor of erectile function, including a pair of underpants equipped with a mechanical device operating to monitor a penile axial length, a penile radial length, and a penile volume; a temperature detector operating to detect a penile temperature; an oxygen saturation measuring device operating to measure a penile oxygen saturation; an integrated circuit chip operating to receive and process output signals from the mechanical device, the temperature detector, and the oxygen saturation measuring device; and a data storage device. The mechanical device, the temperature detector, and the oxygen saturation measuring device are electrically or electronically connected to the integrated circuit chip. The data storage device is electrically or electronically connected to the integrated circuit chip.

Abstract: A sensor for detecting urine and stool secretion mounted over two or more layers of garment, said sensor comprising: at least one light source configured to illuminate said garment; at least one photodetector configured to output an indication of the amount of light reflected from said garment; and an electronic circuit configured to detect said secretion by monitoring said output of said photodetector and identifying a temporal pattern being characteristic of said secretion event.

Abstract: A housebreaking reward system. The housebreaking reward system includes a moisture sensitive pad, a moisture detector, a reward dispenser, and an optional handheld transmitter. The moisture sensitive pad is constructed to contain and hold fluids (e.g., urine) deposited by an animal and is laid down at location where it is acceptable for an animal to eliminate. The moisture detector is selectively connectable to sensing elements on the moisture sensitive pad to detect when fluid is deposited. If fluid is detected, the moisture sensitive detector signals the reward dispenser to reward the animal for appropriate elimination. At least a portion the moisture sensitive pad is disposable to facilitate easy cleanup of the appropriate elimination area. After one or more fluid deposits, the moisture detector is disconnected from the sensing elements, and the used moisture sensitive pad is discarded.

Abstract: An absorbent article for use with a RF reader includes an absorbent pad and a RFID tag. The absorbent pad includes a lining layer, a liquid-impermeable layer, an absorbent layer, and a plurality of sensing wires. The liquid-impermeable layer is attached to the lining layer. The absorbent layer is disposed between the lining layer and the liquid-impermeable layer. The lining layer and the liquid-impermeable layer define a receiving space having an opening located at a side portion of the absorbent pad. The sensing wires are provided on the absorbent layer and extend into the receiving space. The RFID tag is received in the receiving space and contacts electrically the sensing wires when received in the receiving space.

Abstract: Methods and apparatuses for detecting when a subject gets up out of bed or out of chair by detecting changes in body flexion angle with respect to a threshold. Also described herein are systems for monitoring one or more subjects each wearing an angle-sensing unit.

Abstract: A fluid dispenser including a contaminant sensor and methods of use of such a fluid dispenser to monitor contaminants either alone or in an array of similar dispensers within a facility.

Abstract: A moisture alert device that has a number of moisture detecting sensor divots around the outside of the device where the sensor divots are connected to insulated circuits within the device that transmits a moisture detections signal to a base, the base sending the signal to a control device, which in turn sends the moisture detection signal to a user by visual, auditory or tactile means. In some cases, the moisture detection signal transmitted to a wireless receiving device. The device can be a wearable garment such as a vest, or in other situations, the device can be a bed component such as a pillow case.

Abstract: An incontinence management system for monitoring wetness in one or more absorbent articles, includes input for receiving one or more sensor signals indicative of a presence of wetness in an absorbent article, processor for processing the one or more sensor signals and for performing an analysis of the signals to characterize wetness events occurring in an absorbent article and user interface for communicating with a user of the system. A mathematical model is used to characterize wetness events, receiving as inputs variables derived from sensor signals and optionally, patient and demographic data. The mathematical model can be configured and/or re-configured utilizing observation data obtained while monitoring a patient for wetness. A diaper for use with such as system is also disclosed.

Abstract: Systems and methods for determining whether an involuntary voiding event was attributable to stress or urge incontinence include determining an activity level of a patient that coincides with the occurrence of the involuntary voiding event or the activity level within a certain time range of the involuntary voiding event. Patient activity data may be collected via a signal that varies as a function of patient activity. The signal may be generated with one or more sensors that detect motion, such as an accelerometer or a piezoelectric crystal, and/or one or more sensors that monitor a physiological parameter of the patient that varies as a function of patient activity, such as heart rate, respiratory rate, electrocardiogram morphology, respiration rate, respiratory volume, core temperature, muscular activity level or subcutaneous temperature of the patient.

Abstract: Absorbent articles incorporating sensory element members are disclosed. The absorbent articles may be disposable pant like garments designed to assist urinary toilet training such as of young children. Upon urination by the wearer, the article produces a feedback response which is transmitted to the wearer by the sensory element member. Wetness based, temperature based and other feedback responses are disclosed. The feedback response should be immediate and unmistakable to the wearer and also be temporary and harmless.

Abstract: An absorbent article includes a liner and an outercover in facing relation and at least one conductive element located between the liner and the outercover. At least a portion of the conductive element is exposed through the liner and/or the outercover to define at least one external contact point. The external contact point defines a perimeter and the liner and/or the outercover is sealed about the perimeter. The contact points provide external access to the internal conductive elements.

Abstract: A signaling device is provided for sensing and indicating the presence of a body exudate in an absorbent article, the device including a housing and a detection circuit disposed within the housing, the detection circuit including an induction coil and a marginal oscillator. A body exudate collection and detection system is also provided including an absorbent article and a signaling device adapted to be used in conjunction with the absorbent article, the signaling device including a housing and a detection circuit disposed within the housing, the detection circuit including an induction coil and a marginal oscillator. The signaling device can also include an attachment mechanism for removably attaching the housing to the absorbent article. The detection circuit can also include an electrical common and a conductor in electrical communication with the electrical common and with the body exudate.

Abstract: An absorbent article includes a backsheet having a longitudinal axis, a topsheet attached to the backsheet and having a body-facing surface, and an absorbent core disposed between the backsheet and the topsheet. The article may also include barrier leg cuffs. The article further includes a sensation aspect, which sensation aspect may be provided between the core and the topsheet. The sensation aspect may be, for example, a temperature sensation aspect. A visible indicator may be associated with the sensation aspect.

Abstract: The teachings herein are directed to devices for detecting and signaling the presence of urine or another electrically conducive liquid in an undergarment, fabric, or other thin material. Preferred devices include a clip configured to safely and releasably secure a liquid detecting sensor to a fabric or undergarment, wherein said sensor is operably coupled to a detection device that emits a notification signal when liquid is present in the fabric.

Abstract: A male urinary incontinence control device comprising dorsal and ventral arms is presented. The dorsal clamping portion is configured for engaging a dorsal surface of a user's penis. The ventral clamping portion is configured for engaging a ventral surface of a user's penis. The device also comprises an adjustable hinge connecting the hinge end of the dorsal arm clamping portion to the hinge end of the ventral arm clamping portion. The adjustable hinge comprises a pivot fixed to one of the ventral and dorsal arms and about which the other of the ventral and dorsal arms can be selectively rotated between a closed position wherein the dorsal arm clamping portion is in opposition with the ventral arm clamping portion and an open position. The location of the pivot relative to the other of the ventral and dorsal arms is selectively adjustable to establish a desired spacing between the ventral and dorsal arms when in the closed position.

Abstract: A leak point wetness sensor for urological investigations. A receptacle receives liquid which leaks past a catheter inserted in the urethra. A temperature sensitive detector sensor is contacted by the leaked liquid and provides a signal output responsive to the temperature of the liquid. A circuit produces a reference output simulative of a temperature below the anticipated temperature of leaked liquid. A comparator produces a signal when the difference between the outputs is sufficient to confirm leakage.

Abstract: A kit to facilitate self-placement of an incontinence prevention device within the urethra includes a deployment base member, a deployment tube, a deployment pusher along with the incontinence prevention device in a sterile pack. The base member includes a rigid shaft of a predetermined length having a finger grip member at one end and a hook member at its opposite end. The shaft of the base member is adapted to fit through the lumen of the deployment tube with the hook projecting out from a proximal end of the deployment tube and with the hook engaging a retention loop on the incontinence prevention device when in its sterile package. Upon removal of the kit components, the deployment tube is slid off the deployment base member and, in doing so, the incontinence prevention device becomes loaded into the deployment tube. The pusher is then used to urge the incontinence prevention device from the deployment tube into the urethra.

Abstract: A wearable article useful for facilitating toilet training is provided. The wearable article includes a temperature change element providing a cool/wet signal when wetted which causes discomfort to the wearer. The temperature change element comprises a temperature change substance disposed on an impermeable material in order to maximize the thermal signal provided to the skin of the wearer.

Abstract: Method of urinary continence training, utilizing an objective measurement, indicative of the state of fullness of the bladder of the subject, to identify the occurrence of an appropriate continence training opportunity. When the objective measurement equals or exceeds a signal threshold value, set to correspond to a bladder volume that is less than a reflexive urination volume, a signal is provided to the subject or to a caregiver. The objective measurement may be performed by a bladder monitor, using any of several modalities of automatic sensing, and preferably using ultrasound. The signal threshold value may be recalculated and increased, so as to continue to correspond to a relatively full bladder, as the subject grows and/or achieves progress toward continence. The method may include other steps directed to help the subject associate the physical sensation of a full bladder with voluntary urination, such as informing the subject that urination is imminent.

Abstract: A biofeedback device for predicting an impending elimination of bodily waste in an incontinent person includes a sensing element in contact with an area of a user so as to detect electrical activity of a sphincter muscle associated therewith and a signaling element operatively connected to the sensing element that provides a signal upon an occurrence of a predetermined electrical activity for the sphincter muscle. The biofeedback device is able to predict an impending elimination of bodily waste for an incontinent person, as well as assist the incontinent person in achieving a contraction of his/her sphincter muscle.

Abstract: A leak point wetness sensor for urological investigations. A receptacle receives liquid which leaks past a catheter inserted in the urethra. A temperature sensitive detector sensor is contacted by the leaked liquid and provides a signal output responsive to the temperature of the liquid. A circuit produces a reference output simulative of a temperature below the anticipated temperature of leaked liquid. A comparator produces a signal when the difference between the outputs is sufficient to confirm leakage.

Abstract: A device adapted to measure the volume of a body cavity including a base, a sensor adapted to detect when a body cavity of the wearer reaches a predetermined volume and a signal mechanism. The sensor is moveably mounted on the base so as to facilitate aiming of the sensor toward the body cavity. The signal mechanism is adapted to provide a signal once the predetermined body cavity volume is reached. Alternatively, the device may comprise a first sensor and a second sensor which are oriented differently toward the body cavity and which each measure a distance between the front wall and the back wall of the body cavity. The device also includes a signal mechanism which provides a once a predetermined volume of the body cavity is reached, wherein the volume is calculated based on the greater of the distances measured between the front wall and the back wall of the body cavity.