Abstract: A wetness notification system includes a detection unit, a clip unit and a receiver unit. The detection unit includes a sleeve body, a moisture detector, a casing, a processor, a wireless transmitter, and a battery. The processor configures the wireless transmitter to transmit a moisture signal outputted by the moisture detector when the moisture signal corresponds to a moist condition. The clip unit clips the detection unit onto the clothing article. The receiver unit includes a wireless receiver, a controller, and a notification module. When the controller receives the moisture signal via the wireless receiver, the controller drives the notification module to output a wetness notification signal.

Abstract: A system for monitoring one or a plurality of patients is disclosed which comprises: i) a plurality of temperature sensors for attachment to the surface of an absorbent article and generating a signal; ii) a transmitter for communicating the signal to a processor; iii) wherein the processor is provided with computer code which, when executed, determines whether a urination or defecation event has occurred in said garment; and iv) display means for displaying said event to a care-giver.

Abstract: A system includes a flexible substrate to couple to a medium. A sensor is supported by the substrate. A microcontroller is supported by the substrate and coupled to the sensor to drive the sensor and receive signals from the sensor representative of wetness of the medium. An RF transmitter is supported by the substrate and coupled to the microcontroller and transmit signals representative of wetness of the medium.

Abstract: The present invention claims a wireless bedwetting alarm and a disposable diaper product comprising the alarm, wherein the alarm comprises a sensor component, an RFID reader, and an alarm terminal; the sensor component is a passive RFID tag or a moisture sensor; the sensor obviates the need for a standalone power source apparatus for power supply; power is supplied by receiving and converting into electricity the energy wirelessly emitted by the RFID reader, or by obtaining body energy, temperature, or movement of the body of a user; the RFID reader uses a wireless mode for transmitting a signal to the alarm terminal to raise an alarm. The present invention adopts passive technology, obviates the use of battery, and is convenient to use, disposable, harmless to human, and of low costs.

Abstract: A system (10) and method for use by a subject with a sleep disorder, such as nocturnal enuresis. The system (10) comprises at least one sensor (11) that detects at least one attribute of the sleep disorder, for example urine, and outputs at least a first signal on or after detection of that attribute. The system (10) further comprises a control device (12) that comprises an arousal device (14), such as a loudspeaker, that activates on or after receipt of the first signal, an interactive device (15) that is actuable by the subject to deactivate or modify the operation of the arousal device (14) and an output device (16) for delivering an output to the subject. The output being delivered on or after deactivation or modification of the arousal device (14).

Abstract: An intelligent medical vigilance system that observes and analyzes, and, only in the event of a clinically significant negative condition, notifies and reports the event to the care staff utilizing the hospital's existing nurse call system. The device includes a bedside unit connected to a pad or coverlet with a sensor array (placed under the patient) and also to an existing hospital nurse call system via an interface. The bedside unit is a wall-mounted unit with a display that becomes active when an alarm condition is enabled. Vigilance alarms are suspended if a patient is detected out of bed. An unable-to-measure alert is provided if the system is unable to reliably monitor. An alert message is generated and maintained on the display screen to inform a responding caregiver of the time and reason for any alarm.

Abstract: The invention is directed to a system and process for estimating a core body temperature of a human subject. The system includes mount, a body, and a heat trap having a temperature sensor. The mount is operable to secure the device to a toilet or adjacent surface. The body houses a microprocessor. The heat trap is distal to the body and is shaped to receive a liquid stream and contain the thermal energy therein. The heat trap comprises a low thermally conductive material. The temperature sensor is in communication with the microprocessor. The temperature sensor is associated with the heat trap and disposed proximate a surface of said heat trap, wherein the liquid stream is directed across said temperature sensor. The system optionally incorporates a process and memory to store input of the temperature sensor and associate the input with a person, compare the input to historical records for a person, and determine a febrile condition for the person based on the input.

Abstract: A sanitization compliance monitoring system comprises care giver badges, patient bed beacons associated with patient beds, dispenser beacons associated with sanitization dispensers, and a central unit for wirelessly communicating with the badges.

Abstract: Sensors and systems for detecting predetermined environmental conditions or changes may include a device capable of providing information. The device may include either a shield or reconfigurable antenna. For example, in a first condition, a shield is configured to prevent communications with the device and, in a second condition, the shield is configured to enable communications with the device. Alternately, in a first condition, a reconfigurable antenna is configured to enable communications with the device and in a second condition the reconfigurable antenna is configured to prevent communications with the device. The shield or reconfigurable antenna may be configured to transition from first conditions to second conditions upon exposure to a predetermined environmental condition or change.

Abstract: A disposable diaper with wireless alarm system includes a) a disposable diaper structure; b) a disposable diaper telltale conductive strip; c) an attachable, removable, reusable battery-powered sensor-transmitter device; and d) a wireless receiver with an alarm signal. Multiple diapers with different frequencies and optional disconnect sensors may be included and controlled by local or remote computer.

Abstract: A system for detection and monitoring of body exudates includes an absorbent article and at least one gas emitting substance incorporated within the absorbent article that can emit a gas after a liquid insult. After an insult, a device incorporating at least one gas sensitive composition can detect the gas and signal that an insult has occurred. The gas may also be detected by a non-contact gas sensor linked to a controller and signaling device which can send visual, auditory, and/or vibratory alerts. The alerts may be perceptible in an area outside the wearer's clothing or at a remote location, such as a watch, radio, computer device and/or smart phone. The system can also determine the fullness of an absorbent article and monitor dry time. The system can be used for interactive toilet training or for caring for an infant, a disabled person, an incontinent youth, or an elderly person.

Abstract: A patient monitoring system according to one embodiment includes a real-time wetness sensor configured to detect the rate of change in wetness occurring within an associated diaper, and automatically adjusting the sensitivity of the sensor to account for a wetness event unrelated to urination. A monitoring unit may be utilized in such a manner that the monitoring system controller-monitors the wetness sensor and generates data associated with detected-wetness events relative to the diaper. A wireless transmitter configured with the monitoring unit and in communication with the monitoring system controller may be further utilized to send the generated data, through a host computer, to a caregiver unit having a caregiver system controller in communication with the host computer. The caregiver can then check the status of the patient, provide a service, and annotate the patients history by transmitting the recorded observation and service provided back to the base station.

Abstract: A sensor (which could be detachable) to sense a condition (including pressure from body weight or moisture from incontinence; applied by adhering to skin of a human body or by putting a diaper on the human body, for example), a signal processing circuit, a periodic or continuous transmitter, and a power supply (typically including a battery) are associated with a flexible substrate in low profile enabling disposition adjacent the human body. A transmitter antenna is on the substrate. Insulator film between battery contacts and a switch-and-transistor combination are two power-on techniques. A bedside monitor, a transceiver configured to receive signals from and transmit signals to the bedside monitor, and a computer connected with the transceiver can be included.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a system suitable for monitoring multiple leakage events such as wetting of a diaper or alike sanitary product. The system includes two or more than two electrodes that are supported in a spaced apart relationship and a liquid permeable substrate between the electrodes that lacks or has a low capacity for holding or storing liquid. In the event of liquid leakage, an electrical bridge connecting the electrodes can be formed by the liquid, and before the product becomes saturated liquid can freely drain from the permeable substrate and disconnect the electrodes. Upon further liquid leakage, electrical connection between the electrodes can be reformed indicating multiple liquid leakage events. In the situation where the sanitary product becomes saturated and liquid is prevented from draining from the permeable substrate, the electrical connection will continue, indicating that the sanitary product requires changing.

Abstract: The present invention provides an interactive patient system comprising: apparatus; sensing means associated with the apparatus, the sensing means adapted to send, receive or identify a location signal; presence identification means associated with a region of a patient, the presence identification means adapted to send, receive or identify a location signal; and altering means adapted to alter a property of the apparatus in proximity to the presence identification means upon identification of an activity signal, thereby effecting an activity in the vicinity of the region of the patient, wherein the activity signal is associated with transmission or identification of at least one location signal as between the sensing means and the presence identification means. Also provided is a method for providing a directed response to a region of a patient.

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 system for monitoring incontinence in one or more subjects comprises display means; input means operable by a user; one or more transmitters, each transmitter being associated with one or more subjects being monitored; the one or more transmitters being configured to transmit signals containing continence-related data for the one or more subjects, wherein the continence-related data has been obtained over time from a continence sensor associated with an absorbent article worn by each respective subject; a receiver unit configured to receive signals from the one or more transmitters; and processing means in communication with at least the receiver unit, the processing means including a display processor configured to process the received signals and communicate display information to the display means for display of a visual representation of continence-related information derived from continence sensors in the absorbent articles worn by the one or more subjects being monitored.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for detecting moisture in a diaper is disclosed. A moisture sensor apparatus is comprised of a housing made of material dimensionally-sensitive to moisture, such that the housing will expand or contract. Electrically conductive contacts disposed on/in the housing, are selectively coupled to, or decoupled from, each other based on a dimensional change of the sensor device when it comes into contact with moisture. An electrical signal routable through the electrically conductive contacts detects a change in state, e.g., from open to closed, and activates a local or remote alarm to indicate the presence of moisture. The consumable low-cost sensor and the optional non-metallic leads and contacts, that are at least partially biodegradable, are coupled via a convenient slidable brush connector to a resusable alarm system having optional low duty cycle transmitting capability to a receiver base station, thereby providing a cost-effective, eco-friendly and user-friendly system.

Abstract: An alarm unit for monitoring or detecting presence of an analyte on a separate sensor portion. The present invention comprises only the alarm unit and its means for attachment to a user's clothing. A square plastic casing protects the alarm electronics portion including a signal processing means. A large clip attachment means is included that is easily separated and attached from the casing and is used to attach the unit to clothing and which has enough clearance to be used with thick articles of clothing including diapers and which has a set of teeth frictionally held against a rubber strip portion located on the casing back so as to also enable secure attachment to very thin articles of clothing. A three-way switch is located externally for easy alarm chime and alarm volume selection.

Abstract: RFID tag and a system and method involving a plurality of RFID tags. Each RFID tag is attached to an object on which the presence of a predefined fluid is monitored. In a first state, (absence of the monitored fluid), the tag acts as a passive RFID tag, and the information it holds can be read with a proximity reader. This operation is performed when the RFID tag is attached to the object to be monitored. In a second state, whenever the monitored fluid appears on the tagged object, a fluid activated battery generates the electrical power which is used to power the RFID tag. The RFID tag then acts as an active RFID tag and starts to emit messages which can be received by a RFID reader.

Abstract: A disposable diaper with wireless alarm system includes a) a disposable diaper structure; b) a disposable diaper telltale conductive strip; c) an attachable, removable, reusable battery-powered sensor-transmitter device; and d) a wireless receiver with an alarm signal. Multiple diapers with different frequencies and optional disconnect sensors may be included and controlled by local or remote computer.

Abstract: In one example embodiment, an alarm unit for monitoring or detecting presence of an analyte on an analyte sensor comprises a square plastic casing protecting the alarm electronics portion and including a signal processing means, a clip attachment means configured to be separated and attached from the casing and used to attach the unit to clothing. The clip attachment has enough clearance to be used with thick articles of clothing including diapers and has a set of teeth frictionally held against a rubber strip portion located on the casing back so as to also enable secure attachment to very thin articles of clothing. The alarm unit may further comprise a three-way switch located externally for easy alarm chime and alarm volume selection.

Abstract: The present invention describes a RFID tag and a system and method involving a plurality of RFID tags. Each RFID tag is attached to an object (or to a structure or a person) on which the presence of a predefined fluid is monitored. In a first state, (absence of the monitored fluid), the tag is acting as a passive RFID tag, and the information it holds, (at least its identifier—ID), can be read with a proximity reader (a hand held or stationary/fixed reader). This operation is performed when the RFID tag is attached to the object (or person) to be monitored. At this stage a table associating tag ID, object name (or person name) and location (or any other information), may be built, and may be recorded so that information it contains is accessible by a control center. In a second state, whenever the monitored fluid appears on the tagged object, a fluid activated battery generates the electrical power which is used to power the RFID tag.

Abstract: A system and method are provided for monitoring bladder distention. Independently controllable acoustic transmitters are coupled to the surface of a user's abdomen region in a spaced-apart fashion. Each transmitter can introduce a broadband acoustic signal into a portion of the abdomen region. Acoustic receivers are also coupled to the surface of the abdomen region to detect acoustic reflections generated when the acoustic signals are introduced into the abdomen region. A controller is positioned on the user and is correlated to an orientation of the user. The controller stores a profile indicative of anatomical features of the user. The controller initiates periodic activations of selected ones of the transmitters based upon the profile and the orientation of the user. The controller uses a weighted combination of all of the acoustic reflections to determine bladder distention of the user. The weighted combination is defined by at least the profile and orientation of the user.

Abstract: A body fluid absorption object wetting alarm method and an apparatus associated are revealed. A light wavelength sensor is disposed on a body fluid absorption unit for detecting wavelength of the body fluid absorption unit. After the body fluid absorption unit becoming wet, the wavelength thereof changes. Then warning signals are sent to the receiving and checking unit. Thus, a caregiver at a management end of the receiving and checking unit knows that the body fluid absorption object worn by a care recipient was already wet and there is a need to replace the wet body fluid absorption unit with a new one immediately.

Abstract: A sensor (which could be detachable) to sense a condition (including pressure from body weight or moisture from incontinence; applied by adhering to skin of a human body or by putting a diaper on the human body, for example), a signal processing circuit, a periodic or continuous transmitter, and a power supply (typically including a battery) are associated with a flexible substrate in low profile enabling disposition adjacent the human body. A transmitter antenna is on the substrate. Insulator film between battery contacts and a switch-and-transistor combination are two power-on techniques. A bedside monitor, a transceiver configured to receive signals from and transmit signals to the bedside monitor, and a computer connected with the transceiver can be included.

Abstract: Apparatus, systems, and methods are described for detecting moisture on a mattress cover. Conductive leads affixed to the mattress cover are configured in loop patterns, and adjacent conductive loops are positioned equidistant to one another to provide equal sensitivity to moisture at any location on the mattress cover. A quick-release connector allows the conductive leads to be quickly connected to an electrical monitoring circuit. The continuity of each conductive lead is periodically checked using a test signal. Moisture is detected by applying a different voltage level to adjacent conductive leads and measuring the current flowing between the leads. When moisture or a broken conductive lead is detected, an alarm signal is communicated to an attendant. The alarm signal is repeated at periodic intervals until the electrical monitoring circuit detects that the alarm condition has been corrected. The attendant's response time is recorded for future performance evaluations.

Abstract: An excrement detection sensor in which two pairs of conductors 1, 2 and 3, 4 are formed between a carrier body 6 and a coating body 7 both having water-proof property and insulating property, wherein the cover body is formed with an urine introduction port 8 correlating the paired conductors and with a faeces introduction port 9 correlating the other paired conductors, and when urine enters into the urine introduction ports, the one pair of the conductors are short-circuited and when faeces enters into the faeces introduction ports, the other one pair of the conductors are short-circuited, whereby the urination and the evacuation can be distinctively detected.

Abstract: A sensor (which could be detachable) to sense a condition (including pressure from body weight or moisture from incontinence; applied by adhering to skin of a human body or by putting a diaper on the human body, for example), a signal processing circuit, a periodic or continuous transmitter, and a power supply (typically including a battery) are associated with a flexible substrate in low profile enabling disposition adjacent the human body. A transmitter antenna is on the substrate. Insulator film between battery contacts and a switch-and-transistor combination are two power-on techniques. A bedside monitor, a transceiver configured to receive signals from and transmit signals to the bedside monitor, and a computer connected with the transceiver can be included.

Abstract: Sensors and systems for detecting predetermined environmental conditions or changes may include a device capable of providing information. The device may include either a shield or reconfigurable antenna. For example, in a first condition, a shield is configured to prevent communications with the device and, in a second condition, the shield is configured to enable communications with the device. Alternately, in a first condition, a reconfigurable antenna is configured to enable communications with the device and in a second condition the reconfigurable antenna is configured to prevent communications with the device. The shield or reconfigurable antenna may be configured to transition from first conditions to second conditions upon exposure to a predetermined environmental condition or change.

Abstract: The disclosure describes an external sensor attached to an undergarment worn by a patient that detects voiding information. The sensor stores the voiding information in a voiding log and transmits the voiding log to an external device. The external device includes a user interface that displays the voiding log to the patient for review. The patient may correct any incorrect voiding information that was logged in error or due to a non-voiding event. A user, such as a clinician or the patient, may use the voiding information to diagnose a condition of the patient. In addition, the voiding information of the voiding log may be used by the user to adjust a stimulation therapy or the external device to automatically adjust stimulation therapy. The undergarment may be disposable or washable after patient use.

Abstract: A radar system for monitoring a premises in a home or building. The radar system includes transmitter and receiver antennae and a signal processor that processes a reflected signal. Doppler analysis of the reflected signal determines the activity and location of a subject's upper torso, and the subject's presence within the monitored premises.

Abstract: In one example embodiment, an alarm unit for monitoring or detecting presence of an analyte on an analyte sensor comprises a square plastic casing protecting the alarm electronics portion and including a signal processing means, a clip attachment means configured to be separated and attached from the casing and used to attach the unit to clothing. The clip attachment has enough clearance to be used with thick articles of clothing including diapers and has a set of teeth frictionally held against a rubber strip portion located on the casing back so as to also enable secure attachment to very thin articles of clothing. The alarm unit may further comprise a three-way switch located externally for easy alarm chime and alarm volume selection.

Abstract: A system (10) and method for use by a subject with a sleep disorder, such as nocturnal enuresis. The system (10) comprises at least one sensor (11) that detects at least one attribute of the sleep disorder, for example urine, and outputs at least a first signal on or after detection of that attribute. The system (10) further comprises a control device (12) that comprises an arousal device (14), such as a loudspeaker, that activates on or after receipt of the first signal, an interactive device (15) that is actuable by the subject to deactivate or modify the operation of the arousal device (14) and an output device (16) for delivering an output to the subject. The output being delivered on or after deactivation or modification of the arousal device (14).

Abstract: Absorbent articles incorporating a wetness sensor for indicating the presence of a body fluid are disclosed. In particular, the absorbent articles include at least two conductive elements that form an open circuit within the article. Each conductive element is connected to a conductive pad member that has sufficient surface area in order to facilitate connection to a signaling device. In accordance with the present disclosure, various attachment mechanisms are disclosed for attaching the pad members to a signaling device. In particular, although the absorbent articles are disposable, the signaling device is intended to be used with multiple absorbent articles. Therefore, a simple and efficient method of connecting the signaling device to the pad members provides various advantages. In one particular embodiment, for instance, the pad members comprise a conductive loop-type material that is attached to a corresponding conductive hook-type material on the signaling device.

Abstract: A radar fall detector system. The radar fall detector system includes transmitter and receiver antennae and a signal processor that processes a reflected signal. Doppler analysis of the reflected signal determines a subject's activity and condition, and its distance to a floor.

Abstract: Sensors and systems for detecting predetermined environmental conditions or changes may include a device capable of storing, representing, or providing information, and a shield. The shield may be disposed proximate the device. The shield may have a first condition and a second condition. In the first condition the shield is configured to prevent access to information stored in or on, represented by or provided by the device. In the second condition the shield is configured to permit access to information stored in or on, represented by or provided by the device. The shield may be configured to transition from the first condition to the second condition when the shield is exposed to the predetermined environmental condition.

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: The disclosure describes an absorbent pad worn by a patient that measures one or more urinary voiding parameters. One or more sensors that measure voiding parameters are integrally formed with the pad, e.g., interwoven with the absorbent pad material or positioned to form one or more sensor layers between layers of absorbent material. The sensors store measured parameters as information in a memory, e.g., as a log, locally or in a separate device. In some embodiments, the pad includes an electrical stimulator that provides stimulation therapy for urinary incontinence based on measured parameters.

Abstract: A system for interactively training a child and a caregiver to assist the child to overcome bedwetting. The system includes an absorbent article, a urine insult detector, a urine insult event communicator and a urine insult event alarm. The urine insult event alarm includes a local alarm proximate the child and a remote alarm proximate the caregiver. The urine insult event alarm can inform both the child and the caregiver upon occurrence of a urine insult event and thereby provide a first interactive training opportunity to assist the child to overcome bedwetting. The local alarm includes a sensor which senses a condition of the child's environment in conjunction with the occurrence of the urine insult event and wherein the remote alarm can be selectively deactivated based on the condition and thereby provide a second interactive training opportunity to assist the child to overcome bedwetting.

Abstract: A diaper alarm system, comprising: at least a diaper, and an alarm system. Wherein, in each diaper is provided with a sensor and a transmitter. Said sensor and said transmitter are located inside said diaper, said sensor is printed on a urine-gathering region and an excrement-gathering region inside said diaper, such that the sensor is connected to the transmitter wirelessly, thus said sensor is able to utilize said transmitter to send out detection signals. Said alarm system includes a receiver, which is connected to said transmitter through transmission of telecommunication signals. On receiving a detection signal by said receiver, said alarm system will determine whether to send out an alarm based on said detection signal.

Abstract: A diaper with urine sensor, where at least a sensing line is laid on the surface of absorption layer of the diaper, and a bag is arranged nearby either end of the diaper and covered partially onto the sensing line, then a fixed urine sensor is arranged within the bag, so that the sensing point on the conduction surface gets contact with the sensing line for electrical connection; when the impedance of sensing line varies from the changing humidity of the absorption layer of the diaper, the signal will actuate the fixed urine sensor, e.g. sending an alarming sound, lamplight or vibration, thus notifying the users of replacing the diaper in a timely manner; the urine sensor can also be removed and recycled freely with extremely high cost-effectiveness and applicability.

Abstract: Sensors and systems for detecting predetermined environmental conditions or changes may include a device capable of storing, representing, or providing information, and a shield. The shield may be disposed proximate the device. The shield may have a first condition and a second condition. In the first condition the shield is configured to prevent access to information stored in or on, represented by or provided by the device. In the second condition the shield is configured to permit access to information stored in or on, represented by or provided by the device. The shield may be configured to transition from the first condition to the second condition when the shield is exposed to the predetermined environmental condition.

Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus and method for removably attaching one or more electronic components to an article of clothing. Opposing magnets and attachment members for the magnets are placed on opposite sides of clothing.

Abstract: Methods of reducing sensor corrosion include providing a monitor adapted to electrically connect with a wetness sensor integrated with an absorbent article. The wetness sensor has a first conductor and a second conductor and the monitor includes programming instructions that, when the monitor is attached and activated, repetitively execute a sequence of steps that includes applying voltage to the first conductor; measuring the potential across the conductors; and discontinuing the voltage to the first conductor. The instructions may also repetitively execute a sequence of steps that includes alternatively applying voltage to the first and second conductors and/or grounding the first conductor and/or second conductors after discontinuing voltage.

Abstract: An access site disconnection system and method employ RFID sensors that are sensitive to moisture and their presence may not be detected if the sensor is wetted. When a patient receives dialysis treatment, wetness may arise from blood if the access needle becomes disconnected from the access site. At least one RFID sensor is mounted on or near gauze or other absorbent material placed adjacent the access site. After the sensors are placed, the dialysis machine and RFID control circuit may be initialized and dialysis treatment, such as hemodialysis, begun. If blood leaks from the access site, such as if the access needle is dislodged, the RFID sensor is wetted and sends a different or no response to periodic inquiries from an RFID reader. A signal is sent to a controller or to an output device to raise an alert or sound an alarm.

Abstract: The present subject matter relates to absorbent articles and signaling devices for use therewith. An absorbent article may be provided with selected electrical components used as wetness or other type sensors and may also incorporate one or more electrical components, characteristics of which may be determined by a coupled signaling device. An attached signaling device may automatically determine a product identification based on characteristics of the electrical components detected and adjust operating characteristics or parameters for the sensing device. Determinations could be made based on gender, age and approximate weight of the user of the absorbent device. In addition automatic checks can be made to determine mutual operability of the signaling device with an associated absorbent article or visa-versa.

Abstract: A method of detecting the presence of an insult in an absorbent article. An electrical property of the article is measured and either a proportional difference or a rate of change of the electrical property is determined. The proportional difference or the rate of change is compared to a difference indicator value and a rate indicator value, respectively, to determine the presence of an insult in the article.

Abstract: A method of detecting the presence of an insult in an absorbent article. An electrical property of the article is measured and digitized. To detect an insult, the digital values are used by a microprocessor to determine at least one of the following: (a) a slope in the electrical property compared to a threshold value; (b) a comparison of the electrical property over a period of time to a threshold value; and/or (c) a comparison of the electrical property to a determined threshold value.

Abstract: The present invention describes a RFID tag and a system and method involving a plurality of RFID tags. Each RFID tag is attached to an object (or to a structure or a person) on which the presence of a predefined fluid is monitored. In a first state, (absence of the monitored fluid), the tag is acting as a passive RFID tag, and the information it holds, (at least its identifier—ID), can be read with a proximity reader (a hand held or stationary/fixed reader). This operation is performed when the RFID tag is attached to the object (or person) to be monitored. At this stage a table associating tag ID, object name (or person name) and location (or any other information), may be built, and may be recorded so that information it contains is accessible by a control center. In a second state, whenever the monitored fluid appears on the tagged object, a fluid activated battery generates the electrical power which is used to power the RFID tag.