Abstract: In one embodiment, a non-invasive physiological sensor assembly is capable of attachment to a tissue site of the ear comprising of cartilaginous structures of the ear, providing low latency of physiological measurements as well as a secure attachment.

Abstract: There is provided an optical bioinstrumentation device, with which measurement data reflect more correctly the information inside the living body with less noise even the subject moves when the information inside the living body is measured by using the light. In the present invention, the means for fixing the part other than the tips of the optical fibers for irradiation and detection on the fixing member which is to fix the tips of the optical fiber for irradiation and detection on the subject, or, the means for fixing the optical fiber is fixed on the fixing member which is to fix the end of the optical fiber on the subject, or the means for fixing the optical fiber at two or more positions on the subject.

Abstract: A system and a method for creating a stable and reproducible interface of an optical sensor system for measuring blood glucose levels in biological tissue include a dual wedge prism sensor attached to a disposable optic that comprises a focusing lens and an optical window. The disposable optic adheres to the skin to allow a patient to take multiple readings or scans at the same location. The disposable optic includes a Petzval surface placed flush against the skin to maintain the focal point of the optical beam on the surface of the skin. Additionally, the integrity of the sensor signal is maximized by varying the rotation rates of the dual wedge prisms over time in relation to the depth scan rate of the sensor. Optimally, a medium may be injected between the disposable and the skin to match the respective refractive indices and optimize the signal collection of the sensor.

Abstract: A sensor may be adapted to reduce motion artifacts by mitigating the effects of the tissue moving within the sensor. A sensor is provided with an elastic sensor body adapted to accommodate patient motion. Further, a sensor is provided in which the sensor cable is arranged to mitigate its pressure on a patient's tissue.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to holders for a sensor. The holders apply pressure to the sensor to prevent a venous blood signal without dampening the arterial blood signal and are optically opaque to shield ambient light from reaching the sensor.

Abstract: A physiological sensor having reduced sensitivity to interference includes a light source, a light detector in optical communication with the light source, and a sensor pad at least partially housing the light source and the light detector. The sensor pad is configured to be capacitively isolated from a patient. Moreover, the physiological sensor may be electrically connected to an amplifier having a signal ground and a monitor.

Abstract: A sensor may be adapted to reduce motion artifacts by mitigating the effects of the tissue moving within the sensor. A sensor is provided with an elastomeric sensor body adapted to accommodate patient motion. Further, a sensor is provided in which the sensor cable is arranged to mitigate its pressure on a patient's tissue.

Abstract: A sensor may be adapted to reduce motion artifacts by mitigating the effects of the tissue moving within the sensor. A sensor is provided with an elastic sensor body adapted to accommodate patient motion. Further, a sensor is provided in which the sensor cable is arranged to mitigate its pressure on a patient's tissue.

Abstract: A sensor may be adapted to reduce motion artifacts by mitigating the effects of the tissue moving within the sensor. A sensor is provided with an elastomeric sensor body adapted to accommodate patient motion. Further, a sensor is provided in which the sensor cable is arranged to mitigate its pressure on a patient's tissue.

Abstract: A sensor for pulse oximeter systems is provided which comprises a first source of electromagnetic radiation configured to operate at a first wavelength, a second source of electromagnetic radiation configured to operate at a second wavelength and a third source of electromagnetic radiation configured to operate at a third wavelength. The first and third sources of electromagnetic radiation are symmetrically oriented about an axis.

Abstract: An optical probe is usable to determine at least one physiological parameter. A disposable portion of the optical probe comprises a bandage including adhesive on at least a portion of at least one face thereof. The bandage comprises a first modular housing component attached to a surface of the bandage at a first position. The first modular housing component is configured to receive and removably engage a modular probe emitter. The bandage comprises a second modular housing component attached to the surface of the bandage at a second position. The second position is spaced from the first position. The second modular housing component is configured to receive and removably engage a modular probe detector.

Abstract: A sensor may be adapted to reduce signal artifacts by deflecting the effects of outside forces and sensor motion. A sensor is provided with a rigid annular structure adapted to reduce the effect of motion of a sensor emitter and/or detector. Further, a method of deflecting or minimizing outside forces and sensor motion is also provided.

Abstract: Remanufactured medical sensors and methods for remanufacturing used stacked adhesive medical sensors are provided. Such a remanufactured sensor may include certain components from a used stacked adhesive medical sensor and certain new components. For example, a remanufactured medical sensor may include an exterior foam layer, a mask layer, an emitter and a detector, a semi-rigid optical mount to hold the emitter and the detector in place, optical windows, and an interior foam layer. At least the emitter and the detector may derive from the used stacked adhesive medical sensor, while at least one of the exterior foam layer, the mask layer, the semi-rigid optical mount, the optical windows, or the interior foam layer may be new.

Abstract: The present invention provides sample devices. The present invention also provides in vivo drug screening systems. The present invention further provides a method for in vivo drug screening.

Abstract: An embodiment of the invention includes a device, system and method for determining the characteristics of deep tissue. The novel method includes measuring blood flow rate and oxygenation characteristics of the tissue, and determining oxygen metabolism of the tissue as a function of the measure blood flow rate and measure oxygenation. The blood flow rate characteristics are measured as a function of light fluctuations caused by the tissue, while the oxygenation characteristics are measured as a function of transmission of light through the tissue with respect to the wavelength of light. The tissue may be layered tissue, for example, a portion of a brain. The tissue characteristics may be measured during times of varying levels of exercise intensity.

Abstract: A photoplethysmographic sensor designed for use on the presenting portion of a fetus during labor and delivery. The sensor has a non-deployed state in which the sensor presents a smaller footprint, or cross sectional area, for transvaginal insertion. Once the sensor is applied to the fetal tissue it is moved into the deployed state, which has a larger footprint or cross sectional area, than the sensor does in the non-deployed state. The deployed state optimizes the physical distance between the light emitter and the photodetector to maximize the photoplethysmographic measurement accuracy from the fetal tissue.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention include systems and methods that relate to pulse oximetry. Specifically, one embodiment includes an oximeter sensor, comprising, a light emitting element configured to emit light, a light detector configured to receive the light, and a probe configured to contact a patient and provide an indication of whether the oximeter sensor is in contact with the patient based on an impedance measurement.

Abstract: A pulse oximeter sensor has both a reusable and a disposable portion. The reusable portion of the sensor preserves the relatively long-lived and costly emitter, detector and connector components. The disposable portion of the sensor is the relatively inexpensive adhesive tape component that is used to secure the sensor to a measurement site, typically a patient's finger or toe. The disposable portion of the sensor is removably attached to the reusable portion in a manner that allows the disposable portion to be readily replaced when the adhesive is expended or the tape becomes soiled or excessively worn. The disposable portion may also contain an information element useful for sensor identification or for security purposes to insure patient safety.

Abstract: A clip-style pulse sensor may be adapted to apply limited, even pressure to a patient's tissue. A clip-style sensor is provided that reduces motion artifacts by exerting limited, uniform pressure to the patient tissue to reduce tissue exsanguination. Further, such a sensor provides a secure fit while avoiding discomfort for the wearer.

Abstract: A sensor for pulse oximetry or other applications utilizing spectrophotometry may be adapted to reduce motion artifacts by fixing the optical distance between an emitter and detector. A flexible sensor is provided with a stiffening member to hold the emitter and detector of the sensor in a relatively fixed position when applied to a patient. Further, an annular or partially annular sensor is adapted to hold an emitter and detector of the sensor in a relatively fixed position when applied to a patient. A clip-style sensor is provided with a spacer that controls the distance between the emitter and detector.

Abstract: A sensor plaster (116) for the transcutaneous measurement of an organ function, more particularly of a kidney function, is proposed. The sensor plaster (116) comprises at least one flexible carrier element (134) having at least one adhesive surface (138) which can be stuck onto a body surface. Furthermore, the sensor plaster (116) comprises at least one radiation source, more particularly a light source (142), wherein the radiation source is designed to irradiate the body surface with at least one interrogation light (162). Furthermore, the sensor plaster (116) comprises at least one detector (146) designed to detect at least one response light (176) incident from the direction of the body surface.

Abstract: A pulse oximeter sensor has both a reusable and a disposable portion. The reusable portion of the sensor preserves the relatively long-lived and costly emitter, detector and connector components. The disposable portion of the sensor is the relatively inexpensive adhesive tape component that is used to secure the sensor to a measurement site, typically a patient's finger or toe. The disposable portion of the sensor is removably attached to the reusable portion in a manner that allows the disposable portion to be readily replaced when the adhesive is expended or the tape becomes soiled or excessively worn. The disposable portion may also contain an information element useful for sensor identification or for security purposes to insure patient safety.

Abstract: A method for use and an improved oximeter sensor substrate that is conforming to the shape of the patient's forehead. In one embodiment, the present invention is an oximeter sensor, having a substrate with a shape similar to a shape of at least a portion of a patient's forehead and including a section adapted to substantially fit over a portion of a forehead of a patient; an emitter disposed on the substrate at a position located on the section; and a detector disposed on the substrate at a distance from the emitter. In one embodiment, the substrate includes a hat that holds the emitter and the detector in a spaced-part manner against the patient's forehead.

Abstract: A living body information signal processing system (100) combining organically a living body optical measurement apparatus and a brain wave measurement apparatus, the living body optical measurement apparatus (300) in which inspection light of from visible to near infrared is irradiated on a head portion of a subject (140) and the penetration light is received and which measures an optical characteristic variation induced by a brain activity inside the head portion as a living body optical signal and the brain wave measurement apparatus (400) which measures an electrical characteristic variation induced by a brain activity inside the head portion of the subject as a brain wave signal, is provided with a probe device (50) used for both apparatus; and a living body information signal processing and displaying device (200) which displays the living body optical signal corresponding to respective measurement positions from the living body optical measurement apparatus and the brain wave signal corresponding to re

Abstract: A binding strap used in connection with a SpO2 sensor comprises two clamping portions each of which is provided with an access opening for passing the light emitting portion or light receiving portion of the SpO2 sensor and a holding recess for holding corresponding light emitting portion or light receiving portion, wherein said access openings are designed to allow corresponding light emitting portion or light receiving portion to pass only when said access openings are undergoing a certain amount of deformation. The binding strap of the present invention is advantageous in that the light emitting portion and the light receiving portion of the SpO2 sensor might be tightly secured to the binding strap, and the lost of the binding strap when not use is ensured to be hard.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention include systems and methods that relate to pulse oximetry. Specifically, one embodiment includes an oximeter sensor comprising a light emitting element configured to emit light, a light detector configured to receive the light, and an accelerometer configured to detect motion of the oximeter sensor.

Abstract: A variable aperture sensor has a first jaw and a second jaw that are rotatably attached. An emitter is disposed in the first jaw, and a detector is disposed in the second jaw. The jaws are adapted to attach to a tissue site so that the emitter transmits optical radiation into the tissue site and the detector receives optical radiation through a variable aperture after absorption by the tissue site. The variable aperture is disposed in the second jaw and configured to adjust the amount of the optical radiation received by the detector.

Abstract: A pulse oximetry sensor comprises emitters configured to transmit light having a plurality of wavelengths into a fleshy medium. A detector is responsive to the emitted light after absorption by constituents of pulsatile blood flowing within the medium so as to generate intensity signals. A sensor head has a light absorbing surface adapted to be disposed proximate the medium. The emitters and the detector are disposed proximate the sensor head. A detector window is defined by the sensor head and configured so as to limit the field-of-view of the detector.

Abstract: A biometric information detecting apparatus has a biometric sensor for measuring biometric information for a predetermined time period. An A/D conversion portion acquires a sampling data by subjecting an output of the biometric sensor to A/D conversion. A storing portion stores the sampling data. A frequency analyzing portion subjects the sampling data stored in the storing portion to a frequency analysis and stores a result of the frequency analysis to in storing portion. A biometric state value calculating portion calculates a biometric state value from the result of the frequency analysis stored in the storing portion. An SN ratio calculating portion calculates an SN ratio from the result of the frequency analysis stored in the storing portion. A determining portion determines a reliability of the biometric state value based on whether the calculated SN ratio exceeds a predetermined threshold.

Abstract: A multi-layered structure in the form of a disposable patch is described for supporting a light source and useful in conjunction with procedures for the non-invasive visualization of veins, arteries or other subcutaneous structures of the body or for facilitating intravenous insertion or extraction of fluids, medication or the like, which in a representative embodiment includes a coupling layer for interfacing and optically coupling with the body surface and conforming to the surface topography of the body portion of interest, a ring for supporting a light source, and a reflective layer between the source and coupling layer for redirecting light reflected from the body surface back through the coupling layer.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention include systems and methods that relate to pulse oximetry. Specifically, one embodiment includes an oximeter sensor, comprising a light emitting element configured to emit light, a light detector configured to receive the light, and a memory device that stores data, comprising an amount of wetness on the oximeter sensor.

Abstract: A medical sensor may be adapted to account for factors that cause irregularities in pulse oximetry measurements or other spectrophotemetric measurements. Sensors are provided with surface features that reduce the amount of outside light or shunted light that impinge the detecting elements of the sensor. The sensor is adapted to reduce the effect of outside light or shunted light on pulse oximetry measurements.

Abstract: A sensor may be adapted to account for factors that cause irregularities in sensor measurements. A sensor may selectively absorb light from outside sources. A sensor may selectively absorb light near a region of tissue having relatively large subcutaneous anatomic structures, such as large blood vessels, and selectively reflect light near a region of tissue that is relatively free of large blood vessels or other structures. The sensor is adapted to reduce the effect of large subcutaneous anatomic structures and outside light on measurements for pulse oximetry or other spectrophotometric techniques.

Abstract: Forehead oximetry sensor devices and methods for determining physiological parameters using forehead oximetry sensors. One method includes placing an oximetry sensor on the forehead of a patient, such that the sensor is placed on the lower forehead region, above the eyebrow with the sensor optics placed lateral of the iris and proximal the temple; and operating the pulse oximeter to obtain the physiological parameter. In one aspect, the method also includes providing and placing a headband over the oximetry sensor, or alternately, the sensor is a headband-integrated sensor. The headband has an elastic segment sized to fit around the patient's head. The headband also includes a non-elastic segment that is smaller than and attached with the elastic segment. The non-elastic segment is sized to span a portion of the elastic segment when the elastic segment is stretched. In addition, the non-elastic segment is larger than the portion of the elastic segment it spans when the elastic segment is not stretched.

Abstract: A sensor may be adapted to be placed on multiple tissue sites. A sensor is provided that may have one configuration associated with use on a digit and a second configuration associated with use on another tissue site, such as a forehead. Further, a sensor may be adapted to be a transmission-type sensor or a reflectance-type sensor, depending on its configuration.

Abstract: A clip-style sensor is provided that includes a sliding clip, such as a flat spring that slides along the sensor to provide a closing force for the sensor. When the sliding clip is engaged, the sensor is secured to the patient. The sensor may be placed on a patient's finger, toe, ear, and so forth to obtain pulse oximetry or other spectrophotometric measurements.

Abstract: A method for use and an improved oximeter sensor substrate that is conforming to the shape of the patient's forehead. In one embodiment, the present invention is an oximeter sensor, having a substrate with a shape similar to a shape of at least a portion of a patient's forehead and including a section adapted to substantially fit over a portion of a forehead of a patient; an emitter disposed on the substrate at a position located on the section; and a detector disposed on the substrate at a distance from the emitter. In one embodiment, the substrate includes a hat that holds the emitter and the detector in a spaced-part manner against the patient's forehead.

Abstract: A method for use and an improved oximeter sensor substrate that is conforming to the shape of the patient's forehead. In one embodiment, the present invention is an oximeter sensor, having a substrate with a shape similar to a shape of at least a portion of a patient's forehead and including a section adapted to substantially fit over a portion of a forehead of a patient; an emitter disposed on the substrate at a position located on the section; and a detector disposed on the substrate at a distance from the emitter. In one embodiment, the substrate includes a hat that holds the emitter and the detector in a spaced-part manner against the patient's forehead.

Abstract: A medical sensor may be adapted to prevent unwanted light and electrical interference from corrupting physiological measurements. Sensors are provided with features that reduce the amount of outside light or shunted light that impinge the detecting elements of the sensor. The sensor is adapted to reduce crosstalk between electrical signals, increasing the accuracy of measurements. The sensor is also adapted to reduce the effect of outside light or shunted light on pulse oximetry measurements.

Abstract: A sensor for pulse oximetry or other applications utilizing spectrophotometry may be adapted to reduce motion artifacts by fixing the optical distance between an emitter and detector. A flexible sensor is provided with a stiffening member to hold the emitter and detector of the sensor in a relatively fixed position when applied to a patient. Further, an annular or partially annular sensor is adapted to hold an emitter and detector of the sensor in a relatively fixed position when applied to a patient. A clip-style sensor is provided with a spacer that controls the distance between the emitter and detector.

Abstract: A system is provided that includes an ear sensor and an external device. The ear sensor includes a sensing component with sensors for sensing various physiological parameters. The ear sensor also includes a retaining component configured to retain the ear sensor to the ear of a wearer. As the retaining component retains the ear sensor to the ear, the sensing component may be configured to have an optimal surface contact between the sensors and the ear tissue, such that an improved physiological signal may be obtained. In some embodiments, the improved physiological signal may result in physiological data, which may be displayed and organized in the external device.

Abstract: A sensor cartridge according to embodiments of the disclosure is capable of being used with a non-invasive physiological sensor. Certain embodiments of the sensor cartridge protect the sensor from damage, such as damage due to repeated use, reduce the need for sensor sanitization, or both. Further, embodiments of the sensor cartridge are positionable on the user before insertion in the sensor and allow for improved alignment of the treatment site with the sensor. In addition, the sensor cartridge of certain embodiments of the disclosure can be configured to allow a single sensor to comfortably accommodate treatment sites of various sizes such as for both adult and pediatric applications.

Abstract: Flexible, low-cost, physically robust optical coupling patches for use in spectrophotometric patient monitoring, and methods of fabrication thereof, are described. The optical coupling patch comprises a flexible base layer having a skin-contacting surface and a first aperture formed therethrough that establishes an optical interface with a skin surface when the base layer is placed against the skin surface. The optical coupling patch further comprises an elastomeric waveguiding member laterally disposed on a surface of the base layer opposite the skin-contacting surface. The optical coupling patch guides optical radiation between a laterally propagating state at a first location laterally distal from the first aperture and a generally vertically propagating state at the first aperture.

Abstract: A method and system for regulating contact pressure of a sensor is provided. In accordance with an embodiment, a sensor includes a collapsible material capable of regulating the localized component contact pressure exerted on a tissue between a threshold which ensures proper contact between the sensing component and monitoring site but which minimizes incidents of excessive localized pressures which could result in tissue damage over prolonged use. This localized contact pressure range is maintained over a wide range of sensor application pressures. In one embodiment, a window is provided in the sensor and a colorimetric indication of the compression or expansion of the collapsible material may be determined through the window.

Abstract: According to various embodiments, a hat-based or headband sensor assembly may include thin or flexible optical sensing components, such as optical fibers or ultra thin emitters or detectors. In embodiments, the sensor assembly may be a hat-based sensor that includes a gripping region, for example on the inside of the hat band, to help secure the hat to a patient's head.

Abstract: According to various embodiments, a medical sensor assembly may include compressible light barriers configured to prevent undesired light from being detected. The compressible light barriers may protrude from the surface of the sensor. However, when applied to the tissue, the compressible light barriers may be compressed to the point of being substantially flush with the tissue.

Abstract: Embodiments described herein may include systems and methods for monitoring physiological parameters of a patient. Specifically, embodiments disclose the use of a flexible circuitry in a medical sensor that is small and lightweight and easily bendable, such that it may be comfortably affixed to a patient while also providing added electronic functions, such as digital conversion and wireless capability.

Abstract: The invention involves the monitoring of a biological parameter through a compact analyzer. The preferred apparatus is a spectrometer based system that is attached continuously or semi-continuously to a human subject and collects spectral measurements that are used to determine a biological parameter in the sampled tissue. The preferred target analyte is glucose. The preferred analyzer is a near-IR based glucose analyzer for determining the glucose concentration in the body.

Abstract: Pulse oximeter apparatus and method comprising a reusable pulse oximeter probe and a disposable bandage. The bandage has receptacles for receiving and aligning the oximeter's light emitting diode and photocell detector.

Abstract: A system and method of standardizing modular probe housings so that the standardized probe housings may be incorporated into probes adapted to work with at least one of a multiplicity of manufacturers' oximeters. The probe housings are adapted to matingly engage at least a disposable bandage apparatus and a reusable finger attachment device. A pulse oximeter system comprises a finger attachment device having first and second probe couplers, the first and second probe couplers are configured to be matingly engageable with probe housings of a pulse oximeter probe.