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. Within the physical bedside unit are a signal processor and an alarm processor that measure data and evaluate whether a clinically significant event is occurring. The bedside unit is a wall-mounted unit with a display that becomes active when an alarm condition is enabled. The sensing pad or coverlet is a thin, piezoelectric film, or other similar sensing technology, with an array of sensors sheathed in soft padding and is not directly in contact with the skin of the patient.

Abstract: A monitor, for use with an absorbent article having a wetness sensor, includes a power management system. The monitor may include a hinge, a housing, and a power management system. The power management system may include an integrally activated and deactivated power circuit. The power circuit includes a first contact associated with the hinge and a second contact associated with the housing. The first contact is electrically connected with the second contact when the monitor is in a closed condition. The first contact is electrically disconnected with the second contact when the monitor is in an open condition. A monitor having a power management system may further include an attachment circuit and/or a continuity circuit.

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: 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 wetness monitoring system is provided for an absorbent article, the wetness monitoring system including a signaling device including a counter to count the number of discrete insults, a timer to monitor the elapsed time that the article has been worn, and an alarm to indicate that the number of discrete insults has reached an insult limit or that the elapsed time has reached an elapsed time limit, whichever occurs first. The signaling device can be adapted to indicate one of first, second, and third conditions, the first condition being that the number of discrete insults has reached an insult limit, the second condition being that the elapsed time has reached an elapsed time limit, and the third condition being the first to occur of either of the first and second conditions, and wherein the condition to be indicated is selected by the wearer or by a caregiver.

Abstract: A monitor, for use with an absorbent article having a wetness sensor, includes a microprocessor and a current source, the microprocessor forms part of a wetness monitoring circuit and part of a continuity monitoring circuit. A method of providing a system for monitoring an absorbent article with a wetness sensor includes programming a microprocessor to (1) provide notification when the monitor is not electrically connected with the wetness sensor, (2) provide notification when the monitor is electrically connected with the wetness sensor, and (3) provide notification when the absorbent article is wet.

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 motion-sensitive vibrating sleep device is disclosed that includes a motion sensor and a controller operating a vibratory means. The motion sensor senses motion of a body. The controller causes a vibratory means to be activated when no body motion is detected in a predetermined period of time. Once motion is detected, the controller optionally causes the vibratory motion to cease.

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 system and method for facilitating the elimination of bedwetting behavior utilizing a number of RF transceivers which include a base unit, an alarm unit, and a remote keypad unit. The method works through programmed sleep interruption based upon a user's previously established sleep and bedwetting pattern.

Abstract: A urine detection system is provided for detecting degree of wetness of a diaper, comprising a plane printing electrode, a sensor, and a display unit. The plane printing electrode comprises a first electrode area and a second electrode area. The sensor comprises a first sensor electrode, a second sensor electrode and a processor. Wherein the first sensor electrode and the first electrode area forms a first capacitor, and the second sensor electrode and the second electrode area forms a second capacitor. The processor, detects capacitance of the first and second capacitors, and determines a signal representing degree of wetness of the diaper. The display unit receives the signal and displays the degree of wetness corresponding to the signal.

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: Embodiments of the invention provide a sensor for detecting the presence of fluid in an absorbent article. The sensor may include a fluid activated battery. Fluid received in the absorbent article may connect electrodes of the fluid activated battery and cause a voltage to be generated between battery electrodes. The voltage generated between the electrodes may provide power to the sensor circuit. In one embodiment, the fluid activated battery may be configured to detect the presence of fluid in the absorbent article and the presence and/or amount of particular substances in the received fluid.

Abstract: A toilet training apparatus according to the present invention includes a processor that is in data communication with a timer, a first alarm, and a presence sensor. At a predetermined time, the processor actuates the first alarm to awaken a sleeping toddler to urge him to go to the bathroom and, thus, proactively, avoid wetting the bed. The first alarm may include an audio or vibratory alarm, or both. The apparatus includes a presence sensor, such as a RFID tag/reader combination, for sensing if the toddler has in fact moved from his bed to the bathroom. Upon sensing the expected movement, the first alarm is reset for a next predetermined waking event. If this movement is not sensed in a predetermined time, the processor actuates a second alarm to awaken a parent to assist in awakening the toddler.

Abstract: An identification badge worn by an individual is sensed when that individual enters a lavatory. The individual is also provided with an indication device which is worn on or about the hands. Inside the lavatory, there is also provided a hand cleaning station which includes a sensor that determines whether the indicating device is in close proximity and dispenses soap on the individual's hands, then provides an appropriate indication to a computer system. Should the badge sensor sense the individual's departure from the lavatory without an appropriate indication being generated by the indicator sensor, a warning signal is generated, which is sent to the computer system and to an appropriate officer, who can then address the individual.

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: 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: A multi-sensor baby care monitoring system includes a wetness sensor configured to generate a first signal relating to an occurrence of a wetness event relative to a wetness containment device, such as a diaper. The monitoring system further includes a human life sensor configured to generate a second signal relating to a presence or absence of a human relative to the wetness containment device. If desired, a system controller may be used for receiving the first and second signals and generating data associated with the wetness event and the presence or absence of said human.

Abstract: A multi-sensor baby care monitoring system includes a wetness sensor configured to generate a first signal relating to an occurrence of a wetness event relative to a wetness containment device, such as a diaper. The monitoring system further includes a human life sensor configured to generate a second signal relating to a presence or absence of a human relative to the wetness containment device. If desired, a system controller may be used for receiving the first and second signals and generating data associated with the wetness event and the presence or absence of said human.

Abstract: A children's potty alarm is disclosed. The children's potty alarm includes a base. A simulated bedroom/bathroom setting which may include a dancing bear or other character is provided on the base. A microprocessor is provided in the base. A speaker is connected to the microprocessor and provided on the base and broadcasts motivational sentences, phrases and/or songs sounds from the speaker upon activation of the alarm to awaken and motivate a child to use a bathroom at predetermined intervals.

Abstract: A method of determining the presence of an insult in an absorbent article is disclosed. The amount of time that elapses between the activation of an alarm and the determination of the presence of a subsequent insult is determined. This elapsed time is compared to a time threshold value and either an insult alarm or a saturation alarm is activated as a function of the comparison. After activation of the alarm for an alarm period, the electrical property of the article is determined at a second time occurring at least a preset period after the end of the alarm period to allow the electrical property to stabilize before determining the electrical property.

Abstract: The present invention provides a diaper including a body, a sensing module disposed on the body for detecting humidity of the body and wirelessly transmitting an electrical signal converted from the humidity and a receiving module for receiving the electrical signal transmitted by the sensing module and generating an alarm signal.

Abstract: Disclosed is a system, method, and device for detecting non-nutritive sucking events produced by an infant; patterns comprising such events (i.e., rhythmic sucking patterns, or RSPs); and relating said events and/or RSPs to performance of a disposable absorbent article worn by the infant. The frequency and/or amplitude and/or other characteristics of non-nutritive sucking changes in response to liquid insults introduced to a disposable absorbent article. Accordingly, changes to RSPs offer detectable and measurable indicia of an infant's perception of the performance of a disposable absorbent article. Furthermore, such information may be used to support and/or substantiate marketing communications to consumers, or to guide selection and/or management of research-and-development programs.

Abstract: The present invention is addressed to a method for establishing a membership of subscribing members for alerting each to the loss of a registered person within a subscribing member. The method commences by establishing a membership of one or more subscribing members. The next step is to provide each subscribing member with access to a registration station capable of receiving registration information for a person to be registered and issuing a registered person indicator, and an alert station where a custodian of the registered person can enter the registered person indicator for issuing an alert that the registered person is lost. Finally, the method includes the step of creating a database interconnected to each of the subscribing member's registration station and alert station via a computer network.

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. Within the physical bedside unit are a signal processor and an alarm processor that measure data and evaluate whether a clinically significant event is occurring. The bedside unit is a wall-mounted unit with a display that becomes active when an alarm condition is enabled. The sensing pad or coverlet is a thin, piezoelectric film, or other similar sensing technology, with an array of sensors sheathed in soft padding and is not directly in contact with the skin of the patient.

Abstract: A system is provided for monitoring one or more depth associated parameters of an object submerged in water. A first set of alarm devices are mounted in the system's housing such that they are accessible from the exterior thereof. The first set of alarm devices, defined by an audio generator, a tactile generator, and a light, are initiated in accordance with a predetermined initiation scheme when at least one of the monitored parameters does not satisfy predetermined threshold criteria associated therewith. A second set of alarm devices are tethered to the system's housing for remote positioning with respect thereto. The second set of alarm devices utilize the same types of alarm devices as the first set of alarm devices and are also initiated in accordance with the predetermined initiation scheme.

Abstract: A multi-sensor baby care monitoring system includes a wetness sensor configured to generate a first signal relating to an occurrence of a wetness event relative to a wetness containment device, such as a diaper. The monitoring system further includes a human life sensor configured to generate a second signal relating to a presence or absence of a human relative to the wetness containment device. If desired, a system controller may be used for receiving the first and second signals and generating data associated with the wetness event and the presence or absence of said human.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a wetness monitoring system that includes a data collection device that sends wetness measurement data to a central computer that detects changes in wetness measurement data caused by the presence of urine or other dielectric fluids. The data collection device includes a semi-reusable sensor and reusable data collector that are worn on a garment of the person. The data collector includes an internal power source so that the person can live a normal ambulatory life. The data collector has an electrical circuit that uses the changing resistance characteristics in the sensor to gather wetness measurement data. The data collector periodically generates and transmits a signal containing the actual wetness measurement data. The signals are coded to identify the particular data collector or person sending the signal. The data collector is programmed to conserve power by sending signals less frequently during periods when the sensor is clearly dry.

Abstract: An elimination-absorber monitoring system addresses diaper-monitoring problems with a unique, low cost, multi-layer disposable sensor structure that absorbs small volumes of urine, yet allows most urine volume to flow unimpeded through it, and into the diaper below. When connected with a reusable, miniature monitor/indicator unit, the sensor presents a clear and on-going change of measurement condition upon experiencing a rapid influx into the diaper of a significant volume of urine, and/or upon a significant reduction in the available absorbency of the diaper's top surface. The sensor additionally provides recessed, protected elements for similarly presenting a clear and on-going change in measurement condition upon experiencing the presence of fecal matter. Further provided is the monitor unit employing narrow, widely-spaced, fast rise-time, fast transition-time pulses for conductivity measurement and alarm activation.

Abstract: A system and method for facilitating the elimination of bedwetting behavior utilizing a number of RF transceivers which include a base unit, an alarm unit, and a remote keypad unit. The method works through programmed sleep interruption based upon a user's previously established sleep and bedwetting pattern.

Abstract: A method of controlling at least one device by incidental sound produced by a living creature and including: attaching a sound-maker to a living creature so that the natural movements of the living creature will cause the sound-maker to emit a sound; receiving the sound by at least one device; and responding by some physical response to the sound, by the at least one device.

Abstract: A disposable sensoring absorbent structure for detecting wetness comprises at least one absorbent layer and at least one sensing device comprising a magnetoelastic film. Such an absorbent structure enables the monitoring the status, e.g., wetness and/or at least one biological and/or chemical analyte, in an absorbent article. A change in status, such as wetness, may reflect an event, such as urination or a feces event. Also included are methods for detecting wetness and/or at least one biological and/or at least one chemical analyte, using the sensoring absorbent structure according to an embodiment of the invention.

Abstract: A discreet bed-wetting alarm comprising a controller, earpiece with earphone, and interconnecting cable. The controller comprises a clock/processor with timer, a display, a sound signal/tone generator, an amplifier programmed to provide an increase in sound volume level, a battery, and various input devices. A plurality of alarm time selections corresponding to known bed-wetting event times is subsequently made and a suitable alarm tone or tones is selected to awaken or alert the user. The discreet bed-wetting alarm controller and earphone may be incorporated into the earpiece for further discretion. Alternate embodiments include a vibrating alarm and/or a flashing light alarm.

Abstract: A battery operated moisture indicator for selective attachment to an existing diaper worn by a baby, having an audible alarm and having a liquid crystal display bulb, for providing an audible alert and a visual alert, respectively, when the diaper has been wet by the baby. The circuit includes a mechanism for selectively activating the alarm and the liquid crystal display bulb when an aqueous electrolyte-containing solution has wetted the diaper. The moisture indicator is provided with a diaphanous sac having a clip for selectively attaching the moisture indicator to the external surface of the front of an existing diaper, thereby providing a moisture indicator that is comfortable for a baby to wear.

Abstract: A system for controlling operation of a machine or process includes a control point and a remote node. The control point is located with respect to the machine or process. The remote node is located with respect to an operator of the machine or process for detecting a predetermined condition of the operator and responsively delivering a fault signal to the control point through a wireless communications channel.

Abstract: A music playback device applicable to a portable telephone terminal device uses a sequence data FIFO memory and a waveform data FIFO memory both having limited storage capacities. A system CPU performs successive transfer of sequence data and waveform data in response to shortage events of the memories. Hence, it is possible to actualize high-quality playback of musical tunes with small storage capacities of the memories and with small load of processing of the system CPU.

Abstract: A sensor for indicating moisture, comprising a unit whose conductivity is dependent on the current moisture exposure and an electric circuit, the unit being included as a component in the electric circuit and the electric circuit being activable by applying an electric field and/or a magnetic field over the same to generate a measurable signal, which is dependent on the total resistance of the circuit. The unit comprises an enzyme together with a substrate, which enzyme is activated when moisture exposure occurs to catalyse a reaction with the substrate that is dependent on the degree of moisture exposure, the substrate reaction product increasing the conductivity of the unit. The invention also relates to the use of such a sensor and a method of using a sensor to indicate moisture.

Abstract: An apparatus for incontinence detection and notification comprises a notification component, for providing notice that an incontinent event has occurred, and a sensor. The sensor includes a sensing pad for collecting and retaining fluid resulting from the incontinent event, and a circuit housed within the sensing pad. The circuit has a pair of stainless steel electrodes, which are in electronic communication with the notification component. A closed circuit is created between the electrodes by the fluid resulting from the incontinent event, causing an electronic signal to be communicated to the notification component. The circuit may also include a plurality of connectors placed in electronic communication with the notification component to diagnose a disconnected or poorly connected circuit.

Abstract: A moisture detection sensor includes a resonant circuit composed of an antenna coil 53 and a capacitor C. A noncontact tag composed of covering materials 51 and 57 covers the resonant circuit. The capacitor C has a pair of electrodes 52 and 56 and a dielectric 55 interposed between the electrodes 52 and 56, and the covering material 57 contains a through-hole 57a that allows the liquid to infiltrate into the dielectric 55 from outside.

Abstract: A system for controlling operation of a machine or process includes a control point and a remote node. The control point is located with respect to the machine or process. The remote node is located with respect to an operator of the machine or process for detecting a predetermined condition of the operator and responsively delivering a fault signal to the control point through a wireless communications channel.

Abstract: A system for pressure ulcer prophylaxis and treatment includes an annunciator which is attached to the outer face of the door or to the doorway of a patient's room and a bedside patient position sequence indicator. The annunciator includes a timing device with settable cycle duration and provides both visual and audible signals to indicate that a prescribed patient turning regimen cycle now requires repositioning of the patient. The annunciator generates a first signal when the cycle duration enters an expiry window and generates a different, intensified signal after the cycle has ended without being reset by a caregiver. The patient position sequence indicator includes a visual display which advises a caregiver of the position in which the patient was last placed and the next sequential position to which the patient is to be moved.

Abstract: There is provided herein a sensor for use in connection with an electronic patient monitor, wherein the sensor preferably uses a linearly configured resistive ladder with spaced-apart resistors as a means of determining at least approximately a location of the patient on the sensor as well as an approximate length of the sensor which is compressed by the patient. By continuously determining both of these quantities over time it is possible to track the patient's movement and determine to what extent the patient needs to be manually turned and/or the extent to which a next-scheduled turn can be skipped.

Abstract: One or more items of apparel have a plurality of sensors (10, 11, and 12) disposed therein (either permanently or temporarily). These sensors sense physical states of the individual wearing the items of apparel and/or of the local environment. In one embodiment, multiple sensors sense, in alternative ways, a parameter that corresponds to a physical state of interest. Information from these alternative sensing approaches is co-processed to yield a resultant parameter value that can be used in various ways. In one embodiment, the parameter value is locally or remotely displayed. In one embodiment, the parameter value is used in comparison against risk thresholds to ascertain a degree of risk to the individual.

Abstract: A urine detection system and method. According to one aspect of the invention, the method includes generating a magnetic field within an effective distance of a potentially wetted area, and conducting a plurality of measurements to construct a magnetic energy distribution function corresponding to the potentially wetted area. The method further includes comparing at least one parameter of the magnetic energy distribution function to a set of stored parameters corresponding to known wetness conditions to identify a wetness condition of the potentially wetted area.

Abstract: A personal care monitoring system is disclosed. In accordance with one embodiment, the monitoring system may include a wetness sensor configured to detect a wetness event occurring within an associated diaper, and a human life sensor configured to detect presence of human life relative to the associated diaper. A monitoring unit having a system controller in communication with the wetness and human life sensors may be utilized in such a manner that the system controller monitors the wetness and human life sensors and generates data associated with detected wetness events and presence of human life relative to the associated diaper.

Abstract: A method and system for an early warning detection of bioterrorism events includes obtaining temperature readings from a statistical sample of individuals in a community, and comparing the individual readings to one or more detection thresholds spaced apart by predetermined values with at least one of the thresholds being below the normally accepted temperature range defined as a low-grade fever. The comparison is then used to identify and evaluate a community's potential infection by a biological warfare agent so that early therapeutic action may be taken.

Abstract: An elimination-absorber monitoring system addresses diaper-monitoring problems with a unique, low cost, multi-layer disposable sensor structure that absorbs small volumes of urine, yet allows most urine volume to flow unimpeded through it, and into the diaper below. When connected with a reusable, miniature monitor/indicator unit, the sensor presents a clear and on-going change of measurement condition upon experiencing a rapid influx into the diaper of a significant volume of urine, and/or upon a significant reduction in the available absorbency of the diaper's top surface. The sensor additionally provides recessed, protected elements for similarly presenting a clear and on-going change in measurement condition upon experiencing the presence of fecal matter. Further provided is the monitor unit employing narrow, widely-spaced, fast rise-time, fast transition-time pulses for conductivity measurement and alarm activation.

Abstract: Cameras 31, 32 take images of an image space around a door. A distance calculation unit 33 calculates the distance to an object in the taken images. A coordinate transformation unit 34 detects the three-dimensional position of the object in the image space. The image space covered by the cameras 31, 32 is divided into a plurality of voxels. Some of these voxels are optionally set as constituents of the detection area. A judgement unit 36 judges whether the detected three-dimensional position of the object locates within or outside the detection area. If the object is present within the detection area, an output unit 37 produces an object detection signal, so that the door is allowed to open.

Abstract: A patient fluid discharge monitoring method and apparatus includes at least one article configured to be worn by a patient, the article having absorbent material and a RF tag received adjacent the absorbent material. The RF tag is excited with an excitation signal and the response of the RF tag to the excitation signal is detected. The detected response of the RF tag is compared to a predetermined response. The RF tag has a first detected response when the absorbent material has no fluid therein and a second detected response when the absorbent material has fluid therein.

Abstract: A disposable sensoring absorbent structure for detecting wetness comprises at least one absorbent layer and at least one sensing device comprising a magnetoelastic film. Such an absorbent structure enables the monitoring the status, e.g., wetness and/or at least one biological and/or chemical analyte, in an absorbent article. A change in status, such as wetness, may reflect an event, such as urination or a feces event. Also included are methods for detecting wetness and/or at least one biological and/or at least one chemical analyte, using the sensoring absorbent structure according to an embodiment of the invention.