WO2018038678A1

WO2018038678A1 - Wearable health monitoring device

Info

Publication number: WO2018038678A1
Application number: PCT/SG2016/050416
Authority: WO
Inventors: Paul Waie SHEW; Henry Tan
Original assignee: Trek 2000 International Ltd
Priority date: 2016-08-26
Filing date: 2016-08-26
Publication date: 2018-03-01

Abstract

A wearable health monitoring device is disclosed, the device comprising a processor, a sensor, a battery and an electronic circuit disposed within a housing. The device further comprises at least two multi-functional ports positioned on an exterior surface of the housing, the multi-functional ports operatively connected to both the sensor and the battery via the electronic circuit. Each of the multi-functional ports are adapted to receive a probe in a data collection mode of the wearable health monitoring device, and are each configured to receive data signals from the probes, and pass the data signals to the sensor via the electronic circuit. Each of the multi-functional ports are also adapted to receive a connecting pin of a first charging apparatus in a charging mode of the wearable health monitoring device, and are configured to pass a voltage difference from the first charging apparatus to the battery via the electronic circuit.

Description

WEARABLE HEALTH MONITORING DEVICE

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The following discloses a wearable health monitoring device. BACKGROUND

[0002] Wearable devices are becoming more prevalent in today's society. They span across different industries, ranging from health-related devices with heart monitors and biosensors, to fitness trackers and to communication gadgets.

[0003] A key optimization parameter for wearable devices will always be to reduce the form factor, and thereby minimize the weight burden on the user. However, wearable devices will almost always need certain standard components which compounds this task. For example, wearable health monitoring devices will typically require a processor, a battery, ports for connection to sensors and a charging port for the charging of the battery. Frequently, the charging port is a Universal Serial Bus (USB) port. However, a USB port has a certain width and height, which results in the device having a larger form factor and increased thickness. Wearing these devices can therefore be cumbersome to the patient and may also present a certain level of discomfort to the patient, especially when the patient has to wear the device for long periods of time.

[0004] The present invention therefore seeks to provide a thinner and lighter wearable health monitoring device with a reduced form factor, or at least provide a novel wearable health monitoring device. Other desirable features and characteristics will become apparent from the subsequent detailed description and the appended claims, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and this background of the disclosure.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

[0005] According to a first aspect of the invention, a wearable health monitoring device is disclosed. The wearable health monitoring device comprises a processor, a sensor, a battery and an electronic circuit disposed within a housing, and at least two multi-functional ports positioned on an exterior surface of the housing; the at least two multi-functional ports operatively connected to both the sensor and the battery via the electronic circuit. Wherein each of the at least two multi-functional ports are adapted to receive a probe in a data collection mode of the wearable health monitoring device, and are each configured to receive data signals from the probes, and pass the data signals to the sensor via the electronic circuit. And wherein each of the at least two multi-functional ports are adapted to receive a connecting pin of a first charging apparatus in a charging mode of the wearable health monitoring device, and are configured to pass a voltage difference from the first charging apparatus to the battery via the electronic circuit.

[0006] Preferably, the electronic circuit comprises an amplifier adjacent to the sensor, the amplifier configured to amplify the data signals just before it reaches the sensor, when the wearable health monitoring device is in the data collection mode.

[0007] Preferably, the electronic circuit further comprises a capacitor adjacent to the amplifier, the capacitor configured to prevent direct current (DC) voltage from being amplified by the amplifier, when the wearable health monitoring device is in the charging mode.

[0008] Preferably, the at least two multi-functional ports are positioned at the edges of the housing.

[0009] Preferably, the housing comprises a plurality of edge portions, and wherein two of the at least two multi-functional ports are positioned in one of the plurality of edge portions, and the one of the plurality of edge portions is a receiving portion for receiving a mating portion of the first charging apparatus.

[0010] Preferably, the receiving portion has a length or a shape substantially similar to a mating portion of the first charging apparatus, and wherein another one of the plurality of edge portions has a length or a shape substantially dissimilar to the mating portion of the charging apparatus.

[0011] Preferably, the shape of the receiving portion is substantially rectangular and the shape of the another one of the plurality of edge portions is substantially arcuate.

[0012] Preferably, the housing further comprises visual indicators for identifying the at least two multi-functional ports. [0013] Preferably, the wearable health monitoring device further comprises a data port, the data port operatively connected to the sensor via the electronic circuit.

[0014] Preferably, the at least two multi-functional ports are connected to the probes.

[0015] Preferably, the probes comprise adhesive surfaces, and the adhesive surfaces of the probes are adhered onto a patient's skin such that the wearable health monitoring device is positioned around or proximate to the patient's chest, and sensor readings are being passed from each of the probes to the sensor via the at least two multi-functional ports, such that wearable health monitoring device is in the data collection mode.

[0016] Preferably, the wearable health monitoring device further comprises a memory module and wherein the sensor is an electrocardiogram (ECG) sensor, and another probe is connected to the data port, and the probes and the another probe are ECG probes, and wherein the memory module stores an ECG reference table.

[0017] Preferably, the wearable health monitoring device further comprises a wireless module, and wherein the processor determines from the data signals of the probes and the another probe, and from referencing the ECG reference table, that there are anomalies with the electrical activity of the patient's heart and sends an alert message via the wireless module.

[0018] Preferably, the mating portion of the first charging apparatus has been fitted with the receiving portion, and the connecting pins of the first charging apparatus are inserted into the two of the at least two multi-functional ports.

[0019] Preferably, the first charging apparatus is connected to a power source and direct current (DC) voltage flows from the first charging apparatus to the two of the at least two multi-functional ports.

[0020] Preferably, one of the two of the at least two multi-functional ports functions as the ground, and the other one of the two of the at least two multi-functional ports receives the DC voltage, and the voltage difference is passed to the battery via a charging circuit of the electronic circuit, such that wearable health monitoring device is in the charging mode.

[0021] Preferably, another two of the at least two multi-functional ports are positioned in another one of the plurality of edge portions, the another one of the plurality of edge portions is a second receiving portion for receiving a mating portion of a second charging apparatus, and wherein the another two of the at least two multi-functional ports are configured to pass a larger voltage difference from the second charging apparatus to the battery via the electronic circuit.

[0022] Preferably, the wearable health monitoring device further comprises an accelerometer, and wherein the referencing of the ECG reference table by the processor is dependent on acceleration readings from the accelerometer.

[0023] Preferably, the wearable health monitoring device further comprises any one of, or any combination of: a gyrometer, a thermometer and a SP02 sensor.

[0024] According to another aspect of the invention, a kit of parts is disclosed, the kit of parts comprises the wearable health monitoring device as disclosed and the first charging apparatus.

[0025] According to another aspect of the invention, a kit of parts is disclosed, the kit of parts comprises the wearable health monitoring device as disclosed and the second charging apparatus.

[0026] According to another aspect of the invention, a kit of parts is disclosed, the kit of parts comprises the wearable health monitoring device as disclosed and the probes.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0027] The accompanying figures, where like reference numerals refer to identical or functionally similar elements throughout the separate views and which together with the detailed description below are incorporated in and form part of the specification, serve to illustrate various embodiments, by way of example only, and to explain various principles and advantages in accordance with a present embodiment.

[0028] Figure 1 shows a wearable health monitoring device in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0029] Figure 2 shows the components of a wearable health monitoring device in accordance with embodiments of the invention. [0030] Figure 3 shows a wearable health monitoring device connected to probes in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0031] Figure 4(a) shows an exemplary charging apparatus, and figure 4(b) shows a wearable health monitoring device connected to a charging apparatus in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0032] Figure 5 shows a wearable health monitoring device in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0033] Figure 6 shows an embodiment of housing of wearable health monitoring device having a triangular profile.

[0034] Figure 7 shows an exemplary circuit diagram of a portion of the electronic circuit of a wearable health monitoring device in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0035] Figure 8 shows an exemplary circuit diagram of a portion of the electronic circuit of a wearable health monitoring device in accordance with another embodiment of the invention.

[0036] Figure 9 shows a flowchart depicting the operation of a wearable health monitoring device in a data collection mode in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0037] Figure 10 shows a flowchart depicting the operation of a wearable health monitoring device in a charging mode in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0038] Skilled artisans will appreciate that elements in the figures are illustrated for simplicity and clarity and have not necessarily been depicted to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements in the block diagrams or steps in the flowcharts may be exaggerated in respect to other elements to help improve understanding of the present embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0039] The following detailed description is merely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit the invention or the application and uses of the invention. Furthermore, there is no intention to be bound by any theory presented in the preceding background of the invention or the following detailed description. It is the intent of the preferred embodiments to disclose a wearable health monitoring device comprising at least two multi-functional ports, wherein the at least two multi-functional ports can function as charging ports for receiving voltage from a charging apparatus to charge a battery of the wearable health monitoring device, and as data ports for receiving data signals from probes. The technical advantage is that as the same ports can be used for both charging the battery and for receiving data signals, this would mean that fewer ports would be required on the wearable health monitoring device, which translates to fewer parts and lesser internal circuitry required for the wearable health monitoring device. This results in the wearable health monitoring device having a reduced form-factor and reduced thickness which makes the wearable health monitoring device less burdensome on the patient. A wearable health monitoring device having fewer parts and lesser internal circuitry would also result in it being lighter, and reduce the weight burden on the patient which is essential in the realm of wearable devices.

[0040] Embodiments of the present invention will be described, by way of example only, with reference to the drawings. Like reference numerals and characters in the drawings refer to like elements or equivalents.

[0041] Figure 1 shows wearable health monitoring device 100 in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention. Wearable health monitoring device 100 comprises housing 101, and multi-functional ports 102, 103. Multi-functional ports 102 and 103 are adapted to receive connecting pins of a charging apparatus, and can function as charging ports by receiving voltage from the charging apparatus. Multi-functional ports 102 and 103 are also adapted to receive probes, or more specifically, the connecting pins of the probes, and can function as data ports by receiving data signals from the probes.

[0042] When wearable health monitoring device 100 is in a data collection mode, a first probe is connected to multi-functional port 102 while a second probe is connected to multifunctional port 103. Multi-functional port 102 receives data signals from the first probe while multi-functional port 103 receives data signals from the second probe. The data signals from the first probe and second probe are passed to a sensor. Preferably, wearable health monitoring device 100 also comprises data port 104 to receive the connecting pin of a third probe and receive data signals from the third probe. Generally, when conducting Electrocardiogram (ECG) tests, receiving data signals from three probes is typically better than receiving data signals from two probes as the data signals from the third probe allows the filtering of the "noise" or inaccurate data received from the first and second probes.

[0043] When wearable health monitoring device 100 is in a charging mode, the connecting pins of a charging apparatus are inserted into multi-functional port 102 and multi-functional port 103. Multi-functional port 102 and multi-functional port 103 are capable of functioning as charging ports as they are adapted to receive voltage from the charging apparatus, and pass it on to a battery via a charging circuit. When being supplied with a direct current (DC) voltage by the charging apparatus, only two charging ports are required. For example, multifunctional port 103 can function as the ground, while multi-functional port 102 can receive a voltage of 5 volts. The voltage difference is then passed on to the charging circuit and on to the battery.

[0044] Preferably, wearable health monitoring device 100 has latching mechanism 105 to secure a charging apparatus in place when wearable health monitoring device 100 is in the charging mode. Preferably, wearable health monitoring device 100 has visual indicators 106 to indicate to the patient or user which ports are the charging ports. As illustrated in figure 1, visual indicators 106 identify that multi-functional ports 102, 103 are the charging ports and that the connecting pins of charging apparatus should be inserted into multi-functional ports 102, 103. Visual indicators 106 are advantageous as they help distinguish multi-functional ports 102, 103 from data port 104, and thereby help guide the patient or user in attaching the charging apparatus to wearable health monitoring device 100.

[0045] Multi-functional ports 102, 103 and data port 104 are positioned on an exterior surface of housing 101. Preferably, multi-functional ports 102, 103 and data port 104 are positioned at the edges or at the periphery of housing 101 (as shown in figure 1). Preferably, housing 101 has three edge portions El, E2 and E3 (as shown in Figure 1). Preferably, one of the edge portions is substantially rectangular (El), while the other two edge portions have a substantially arcuate shape (E2, and E3). Preferably, each edge portion comprises any two ports (multi-functional ports or data port). Preferably, the substantially rectangular edge portion (El) comprises two multi-functional ports 102, 103, and each arcuate edge portion (E2, E3) comprises one of the two multi-functional ports 102, 103 and data port 104. Preferably, housing 100 has a receiving portion to receive a mating portion of a charging apparatus. Preferably, the substantially rectangular edge portion (El) serves as the receiving portion. Preferably, latching mechanism 105 is located proximate the centre of the substantially rectangular edge portion (El).

[0046] Figure 2 shows the components of wearable health monitoring device 100. An electrical circuit (not shown) electrically connects the components together. The electrical circuit comprises a charging circuit. The components of wearable health monitoring device 100 include processor 201, battery 202, and sensor 203. Battery 202 can be charged via the charging circuit, and once charged, is capable of supplying power to the other components of wearable health monitoring device 100. Processor 201 is configured to receive sensor data from sensor 203. Preferably, processor 201 is a microcontroller. Preferably, sensor 203 is an Electrocardiogram (ECG) sensor. Multi-functional ports 102, 103 are electrically and operatively connected to battery 202 via charging circuit. Multi-functional ports 102, 103 are also electrically and operatively connected to sensor 203. Data port 104 is electrically and operatively connected to sensor 203. However, data port 104 is not electrically and operatively connected to neither charging circuit nor battery 202.

[0047] Preferably, the components of wearable health monitoring device 100 also includes memory module 204 and wireless module 205. Wireless module 205 comprises a trans- receiver, and can wirelessly send and receive data via any suitable wireless technology known in the art. Preferably the wireless technology is Bluetooth 4.0 or Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE). Processor 201 can read from and write to memory module 204. Preferably, processor 201 stores the sensor data from sensor 203 into memory module 204. Preferably, memory module 204 stores an ECG reference table.

[0048] Preferably, the components of wearable health monitoring device 100 also includes accelerometer 206, gyrometer 207, thermometer 208 and SP02 sensor 209. Accelerometer 206 can provide acceleration readings to processor 201 and gyrometer 207 can provide angular velocity readings to processor 201. Thermometer 208 can provide temperature readings to processor 201 and SP02 sensor 209 can provide SP02 readings to processor 201. Preferably, the components are within housing 101. Preferably, some of the components can extend out of housing 101, such as for example, SP02 sensor 209.

[0049] Figure 3 illustrates wearable health monitoring device 100 in the data collection mode when it is connected to probes 301, 302. The connecting pin of probe 301 is connected to multi-functional port 102 (not visible in figure 3) and the connecting pin of probe 302 is connected to multi-functional port 103 (not visible in figure 3). Advantageously, they are no wires as the connecting pins of probes 301, 302 are directly inserted into multi-functional ports 102, 103. Preferably, probes 301, 302 are ECG probes. A third probe can be connected to data port 104. Probes 301, 302 have adhesive surfaces 303 for adhering to the patient's skin. Preferably, the wearable health monitoring device 100 and connected probes 301, 302 are attached, and positioned at or proximate to the patient's chest area. The adhesive surfaces 303 of probes 301, 302 are adhesive enough to support the weight of wearable health monitoring device 100. The location of multi-functional ports 102, 103 and data port 104 are therefore important as they indirectly determine the location of probes 301, 302. Preferably, multifunctional ports 102, 103 and data port 104 are positioned at the edges of housing 101 and in edge portions El, E2 and E3 (as shown in figure 1), so that the weight of wearable health monitoring device 100 can be substantially evenly distributed among probes 301, 302 (and the third probe).

[0050] Figure 4(a) shows an exemplary charging apparatus 400 for use with wearable health monitoring device 100 when it is in the charging mode. Charging apparatus 400 is adapted to charge battery 202 of wearable health monitoring device 100. Charging apparatus 400 comprises connecting pins 401 on mating portion 402. Mating portion 402 is shaped and sized such that it fits with the substantially rectangular edge portion (El) of housing 101 or the receiving portion of housing 101 as shown in Figure 4(b). Preferably this fit is a snap-fit. Connecting pins 401 are also adapted to fit into multi-functional ports 102, 103. Charging apparatus 400 also comprises cable 403. One end of cable 403 is connected to platform 402 while another end of cable 403 terminates with connector 404. Connector 404 is for connection to a power source. Preferably, connector 404 is a USB connector. When connector 404 of charging apparatus 400 is connected to a power source, DC voltage will flow via cable 403 to connecting pins 401, and onto multi-functional ports 102, 103. Multi-functional port 103 can function as the ground, while multi-functional port 102 can receive the voltage (e.g. 5 volts). The voltage difference can then be passed from multi-functional ports 102, 103 and via the charging circuit and on to battery 202.

[0051] Multi-functional ports 102, 103 have the dual functionality of being able to function as charging ports for receiving a DC voltage from charging apparatus 400, and as data ports for receiving data signals from probes 301, 302. The technical benefit is that as a single port can function as both a charging port and as a data port, this means that overall, fewer ports are required on wearable health monitoring device 100, which translates to fewer parts and lesser internal circuitry. Further, multi-functional ports 102, 103 are smaller than for example, a USB port. This results in wearable health monitoring device 100 having a reduced form-factor and reduced thickness which makes wearing it less burdensome and cumbersome on the patient. This is crucial as it is envisaged that wearable health monitoring device 100 would be worn by the patient for extended lengths of time, which makes reducing the discomfort of wearing the device even more paramount. Furthermore, wearable health monitoring device

100 having fewer parts and lesser internal circuitry would also result in it being lighter, and reduce the weight burden on the patient which is essential in the realm of wearable devices.

[0052] However, an undesirable situation can occur when the patient or user mistakenly connects connecting pin 401 of charging apparatus 400 to data port 104 instead of multifunctional ports 102, 103. As data port 104 is not adapted to cope with the charging voltage (for example, does not have a zener diode to regulate the incoming voltage), this may result in the electrical circuit of wearable health monitoring device 100 being damaged. Therefore, preferably, wearable health monitoring device 100 is shaped or profiled such that it will be obvious to the patient or user, the manner in which charging apparatus 400 should be attached to wearable health monitoring device 100. For example, as illustrated in figure 5, the substantially rectangular edge portion (El) of housing 101 or the receiving portion of housing

101 could have a length LI considerably different from the lengths L2, L3 of the other edge portions E2, E3. Mating portion 402 of charging apparatus 400 would have a length substantially similar to LI, and therefore it would be visually apparent to the patient or user that mating portion 402 of charging apparatus 400 would only fit with substantially rectangular edge portion (El), and not the other edge portions (E2, E3).

[0053] Furthermore, the shape of the edge portions can also serve as a visual clue for the patient or user as to the manner at which charging apparatus 400 mates with or attaches to wearable health monitoring device 100. For example, if the profile of mating portion 402 of charging apparatus 400 is substantially rectangular, it will then be obvious to the patient or user to attach mating portion 402 of charging apparatus 400 to the substantially rectangular edge portion (El) of housing 101, instead of the arcuate edge portions E2, E3. In other words, the receiving portion of housing 101 is designed such that it has a substantially similar shape and length to the mating portion 402 of the charging apparatus 400, but dissimilar to the other edge portions, this would help guide the patient or user as to the manner in which charging apparatus 400 should mate or attach to wearable health monitoring device 100. [0054] In an alternative embodiment, housing 101 of wearable health monitoring device 100 can have a triangular profile as depicted in figure 6. In this embodiment, edge portions El, E2 and E3 all have a substantially flat shape with no curvature. However, the length LI of edge portion El is greater than the length L2, L3 of edge portions E2 and E3. The length of mating portion 402 charging apparatus 400 is substantially similar to LI. Visually, the patient or user would be able to determine that the dimensions of mating portion 402 of charging apparatus 400 and edge portion El are substantially similar, and that edge portion El is the receiving portion of housing 101 of wearable health monitoring device 100.

[0055] Figure 7 shows an exemplary circuit diagram of a portion of the electronic circuit of wearable health monitoring device 100. As shown in figure 7, multi-functional port 103 functions as the ground while multi-functional port 102 receives a voltage (e.g. 5 volts) from charging apparatus 400. The electronic circuit comprises charging circuit 701. The voltage difference of 5 volts is passed to charging circuit 701 to charge battery 202. This is for illustration purposes only and it is obvious that multi-functional port 102 can likewise function as the ground and multi-functional port 103 can receive the voltage once appropriate design changes to the electronic circuit are made. Though the voltage difference is indicated to be 5 volts in figure 7, this is purely for illustration purposes only and a skilled person would recognise that any practical voltage difference can be applied. Charging circuit 701 can be of any practical design or configuration.

[0056] Multi-functional ports 102, 103 are electrically and operatively connected to charging circuit 701. Once power is supplied by charging apparatus 400 during the charging mode of wearable health monitoring device 100, multi-functional port 102 receives the voltage while multifunctional port 103 acts as the ground. The voltage difference is then passed onto charging circuit 701, which then charges battery 202. Preferably, the electronic circuit of wearable health monitoring device 100 comprises Zener diode 702 adjacent to multifunctional port 102. The purpose of Zener diode 702 is to clamp the voltage in the event that the incoming voltage exceeds a certain threshold. Furthermore, Zener diode 702 also acts as a static electricity protector.

[0057] Multi-functional ports 102, 103 are also electrically connected to sensor 203. During the data collection mode of wearable health monitoring device 100, data signals from probes 301, 302 are received by multi-functional ports 102, 103, which are then passed onto sensor 203. Preferably, the electronic circuit of wearable health monitoring device 100 comprises amplifier 703. Preferably, amplifier 703 is positioned adjacent to sensor 203. The purpose of amplifier 703 is to amplify the data signals from probes 301, 302, which are usually weak, so that sensor 203 can register the data signals accurately. However, one foreseeable problem is that when wearable health monitoring device 100 is in the charging mode, amplifier 703 may amplify the DC voltage flowing to charging circuit 701 to a magnitude which may damage the entire electronic circuit of wearable health monitoring device 100.

[0058] To overcome this problem, the electronic circuit of wearable health monitoring device 100 preferably comprises capacitor 704. Preferably, capacitor 704 is positioned adjacent to amplifier 703. Capacitor 704 will prevent the DC voltage from reaching amplifier 703, but will continue to allow data signals to be amplified by amplifier 703. Therefore, amplification will only occur for the alternating current (AC) voltage of the data signals when wearable health monitoring device 100 is in the data collection mode (i.e. connected to and receiving data from probes 301, 302), and not for the DC voltage when wearable health monitoring device 100 is in the charging mode (i.e. connected to and receiving power from charging apparatus 400).

[0059] In an alternative embodiment, wearable health monitoring device 100 can have more than two multi-functional ports. As shown in figure 8, this embodiment has three multifunctional ports, 102, 103 and 104. Data port 104 is now a multi-functional port 104. Data port 104 can be converted to multi-functional port 104 by establishing an electrical connection to charging circuit 701. Preferably, Zener diode 801 can be additionally placed adjacent to multi-functional port 104 to clamp the incoming voltage. As shown, multi-functional port 104 is electrically and operatively connected to capacitor 802, amplifier 803 and sensor 804 (which serves a similar function to capacitor 704, amplifier 703 and sensor 203 as explained above). Alternatively, wearable health monitoring device 100 may only have one sensor 203, and multi-functional port 104 (like multi-functional port 102) can be electrically and operatively connected to sensor 203, and likewise capacitor 704 and amplifier 703. In this embodiment, the electronic circuit preferably includes diodes 805 and 806 to help split the electric flow between multi-functional port 104 and multi-functional port 102.

[0060] In figure 8, multi-functional port 103 functions as the ground while multi-functional port 102 can receive a voltage of 5 volts and multi-functional port 104 can receive a voltage of 3 volts. Therefore, in this embodiment, wearable health monitoring device 100 has two charging modes, one where it can be charged by 3 volts, and one where it can be charged by 5 volts. This dual charging mode capability is useful as this allows wearable health monitoring device 100 to have a faster charging mode (5 volts when charging apparatus 400 is connected to multi-functional ports 102, 103) and a slower charging mode (3 volts when charging apparatus 400 is connected to multi-functional ports 104, 103). Further, it is also possible that wearable health monitoring device 100 is configured (for example, the length and shape of edge portions El and E3 of housing 101 comprising multi-functional ports 102, 103 and multi-functional ports 104, 103) such that the faster charging mode only works with a particular charging apparatus 400 and the slower charging mode only works with another type of charging apparatus 400. Though the voltages in the dual charging modes - faster charging mode and slower charging mode, have been described as 5 volts and 3 volts respectively, this is purely for illustration purposes only and a skilled person would recognise that any practical charging voltage can be applied. The key thing is that embodiments of wearable health monitoring device 100 cater for multiple charging modes having different voltages (and therefore different charging speed) by providing at least three multi-functional ports 102, 103, 104.

[0061] The wearable health monitoring device 100 can be sold as part of a kit of parts comprising charging apparatus 400 and/or another type of charging apparatus 400. The kit or parts can also comprise probes 301, 302.

[0062] Figure 9 shows a flowchart depicting the operation of wearable health monitoring device 100 in the data collection mode. In step 901, probe 301 is connected to multi-functional port 102 and probe 302 is connected to multi-functional port 103. Preferably, probes 301, 302 are ECG probes. If wearable health monitoring device 100 has data port 104, an additional ECG probe can be connected to data port 104.

[0063] In step 902, adhesive surfaces 303 of probes 301, 302 are adhered onto the patient's skin such that wearable health monitoring device 100 is positioned at or proximate to the patient's chest area.

[0064] In step 903, sensor 203 receives data signals from probes 301, 302. Preferably, the data signals from probes 301, 302 would have been amplified by amplifier 703 prior to it being received by sensor 203. Preferably, sensor 203 is an ECG sensor. [0065] In step 904, processor 201 obtains sensor readings from sensor 203 and stores sensor readings in memory module 204. Preferably, processor 201 filters out insensible sensor readings and stores only sensible sensor readings in memory module 204.

[0066] In step 905, processor 201 determines from the sensor readings if there are any anomalies with the electrical activity of the patient's heart. Preferably, in making this determination, processor 201 references the ECG reference table in memory module 204.

[0067] In step 906, if processor 201 determines from the sensor readings that there are anomalies with the electrical activity of the patient's heart, processor 201 will send an alert message via wireless module 205. Preferably, this alert message is sent to a gateway, or a server, which then forwards the alert message to a mobile device of a care-giver/duty personnel/hospital staff member. Alternatively, the alert message can be sent directly to the mobile device of a care-giver/duty personnel/hospital staff member.

[0068] Figure 10 shows a flowchart depicting the operation of wearable health monitoring device 100 in the charging mode. In step 1001, the patient or user determines the receiving portion of wearable health monitoring device 100 due to its similarity of length and shape with mating portion 402 of charging apparatus 400.

[0069] In step 1002, the patient or user fits mating portion 402 of charging apparatus 400 with the receiving portion of housing 101 of wearable health monitoring device 100.

[0070] In step 1003, the patient or user connects connector 404 of charging apparatus 400 to a power source.

[0071] In step 1004, DC voltage flows via cable 403 to connecting pins 401, and onto multifunctional ports 102, 103.

[0072] In step 1005, one of the multi-functional ports 102, 103 functions as the ground, and the other of the multi-functional ports 102, 103 receives the voltage. [0073] In step 1006, the voltage difference is passed from multi-functional ports 102, 103 to charging circuit 701 to charge battery 202.

[0074] In an embodiment, wearable health monitoring device 100 comprises accelerometer 206. Accelerometer 206 provides acceleration readings to processor 201. As wearable health monitoring device 100 is placed around or proximate to the patient's chest, accelerometer 206 can detect the movement or acceleration of the patient's chest, and therefore infer the patient's breathing or respiratory rate, or the rate in which air enters and leaves the lungs. Acceleration readings of the chest from accelerometer 206 can therefore help detect breathing abnormalities, which depending on the patient's existing condition, may result in processor 201 sending an alert message via wireless module 205. Preferably, this alert message is sent to a gateway, or a server, which then forwards the alert message to a mobile device of a care-giver/duty personnel/hospital staff. Alternatively, the alert message can be sent directly to the mobile device of a care-giver/duty personnel/hospital staff.

[0075] There is a correlation between the movement of the patient and his/her desired ECG readings. For example, when a patient is stationary, the patient should exhibit a desired range of ECG readings. Likewise, if a patient is moving at a slow pace or a fast pace, the patient should exhibit a desired range of ECG readings. From the acceleration readings of accelerometer 206, processor 201 can ascertain whether the patient is stationary or moving at a slow pace or moving at fast pace. In knowing the movement (or lack thereof) of the patient, processor 201 can more accurately determine the desired range of ECG readings, and send the alert message when the measured ECG readings fall out of this range. In making this determination, processor 201 can reference the ECG reference table in memory module 204.

[0076] In an embodiment, wearable health monitoring device 100 comprises gyrometer 207. Gyrometer 207 provides angular velocity readings to processor 201. From angular velocity readings provided by gyrometer 207, processor 201 is able to detect when the patient has fallen, which may result in processor 201 sending an alert message via wireless module 205. Preferably, this alert message is sent to a gateway, or a server, which then forwards the alert message to a mobile device of a care-giver/duty personnel/hospital staff. Alternatively, the alert message can be sent directly to the mobile device of a care-giver/duty personnel/hospital staff. [0077] In an embodiment, wearable health monitoring device 100 comprises thermometer 208 to measure the patient's body temperature. The thermometer provides body temperature readings to processor 201. From the body temperature readings provided by the thermometer, processor 201 is able to determine when the patient is experiencing abnormal body temperatures, which may result in processor 201 sending an alert message via wireless module 205. Preferably, this alert message is sent to a gateway, or a server, which then forwards the alert message to a mobile device of a care-giver/duty personnel/hospital staff. Alternatively, the alert message can be sent directly to the mobile device of a care-giver/duty personnel/hospital staff. The most effective places to measure a patient's temperature are usually at the patient's forehead, ear, under the armpits etc. It is envisaged that wearable health monitoring device 100 will be typically worn somewhere around the patient's chest area. Measuring a patients' temperature at the chest area is not ideal and may not be particularly accurate. However, the focus of wearable health monitoring device 100 is not to measure and report readings, but to detect anomalies in the condition of the patient. Therefore, some tolerances are still acceptable.

[0078] In an embodiment, wearable health monitoring device 100 comprises SP02 sensor 209 to measure the patient's oxygen saturation levels. Preferably, SP02 sensor 209 extends out from housing 101. SP02 sensor 209 works by projecting a beam of light, and measuring the reflected light, which then determines the patient's oxygen saturation levels. From the oxygen saturation levels provided by SP02 sensor 209, processor 201 is able to determine when the patient is experiencing abnormal oxygen saturation levels, which may result in processor 201 sending an alert message via wireless module 205. Preferably, this alert message is sent to a gateway, or a server, which then forwards the alert message to a mobile device of a care- giver/duty personnel/hospital staff. Alternatively, the alert message can be sent directly to the mobile device of a care-giver/duty personnel/hospital staff. SP02 sensors are typically used with a patient's finger. Applying SP02 sensor 209 at the patient's chest area is not ideal and may not be particularly accurate. However, the focus of wearable health monitoring device 100 is not to measure and report readings, but to detect anomalies in the condition of the patient. Therefore, some tolerances are still acceptable.

[0079] Unless specifically stated otherwise, and as apparent from the following, it will be appreciated that throughout the present specification, discussions utilizing terms such as "scanning", "calculating", "determining", "replacing", "generating", "initializing", "outputting", or the like, refer to the action and processes of a computer system, or similar electronic device, that manipulates and transforms data represented as physical quantities within the computer system into other data similarly represented as physical quantities within the computer system or other information storage, transmission or display devices.

[0080] In the application, unless specified otherwise, the terms "comprising", "comprise", and grammatical variants thereof, intended to represent "open" or "inclusive" language such that they include recited elements but also permit inclusion of additional, non-explicitly recited elements.

[0081] It will be apparent that various other modifications and adaptations of the application will be apparent to the person skilled in the art after reading the foregoing disclosure without departing from the spirit and scope of the application and it is intended that all such modifications and adaptations come within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A wearable health monitoring device comprising:

a processor, a sensor, a battery and an electronic circuit disposed within a housing; and at least two multi-functional ports positioned on an exterior surface of the housing; the at least two multi-functional ports operatively connected to both the sensor and the battery via the electronic circuit;

wherein each of the at least two multi-functional ports are adapted to receive a probe in a data collection mode of the wearable health monitoring device, and are each configured to receive data signals from the probes, and pass the data signals to the sensor via the electronic circuit; and

wherein each of the at least two multi-functional ports are adapted to receive a connecting pin of a first charging apparatus in a charging mode of the wearable health monitoring device, and are configured to pass a voltage difference from the first charging apparatus to the battery via the electronic circuit.

2. The wearable health monitoring device of claim 1 wherein the electronic circuit comprises an amplifier adjacent to the sensor, the amplifier configured to amplify the data signals just before it reaches the sensor, when the wearable health monitoring device is in the data collection mode.

3. The wearable health monitoring device of claim 2 wherein the electronic circuit further comprises a capacitor adjacent to the amplifier, the capacitor configured to prevent direct current (DC) voltage from being amplified by the amplifier, when the wearable health monitoring device is in the charging mode.

4. The wearable health monitoring device of any preceding claim wherein the at least two multi-functional ports are positioned at the edges of the housing.

5. The wearable health monitoring device of any preceding claim wherein the housing comprises a plurality of edge portions, and wherein two of the at least two multi-functional ports are positioned in one of the plurality of edge portions, and the one of the plurality of edge portions is a receiving portion for receiving a mating portion of the first charging apparatus.

6. The wearable health monitoring device of claim 5 wherein the receiving portion has a length or a shape substantially similar to a mating portion of the first charging apparatus, and wherein another one of the plurality of edge portions has a length or a shape substantially dissimilar to the mating portion of the first charging apparatus.

7. The wearable health monitoring device of claim 6 wherein the shape of the receiving portion is substantially rectangular and the shape of the another one of the plurality of edge portions is substantially arcuate.

8. The wearable health monitoring device of any preceding claim wherein the housing further comprises visual indicators for identifying the at least two multi-functional ports.

9. The wearable health monitoring device of any preceding claim further comprising a data port, the data port operatively connected to the sensor via the electronic circuit.

10. The wearable health monitoring device of any preceding claim wherein the at least two multi-functional ports are connected to the probes.

11. The wearable health monitoring device of claim 10 wherein the probes comprise adhesive surfaces, and the adhesive surfaces of the probes are adhered onto a patient's skin such that the wearable health monitoring device is positioned around or proximate to the patient's chest, and sensor readings are being passed from each of the probes to the sensor via the at least two multi-functional ports, such that wearable health monitoring device is in the data collection mode.

12. The wearable health monitoring device of claim 11 further comprising a memory module and wherein the sensor is an electrocardiogram (ECG) sensor, and another probe is connected to the data port, and the probes and the another probe are ECG probes, and wherein the memory module stores an ECG reference table.

13. The wearable health monitoring device of claim 12 further comprising a wireless module, and wherein the processor determines from the data signals of the probes and the another probe, and from referencing the ECG reference table, that there are anomalies with the electrical activity of the patient's heart and sends an alert message via the wireless module.

14. The wearable health monitoring device of any one of claims 5 to 9 wherein the mating portion of the first charging apparatus has been fitted with the receiving portion, and the connecting pins of the first charging apparatus are inserted into the two of the at least two multi-functional ports.

15. The wearable health monitoring device of claim 14 wherein the first charging apparatus is connected to a power source and direct current (DC) voltage flows from the first charging apparatus to the two of the at least two multi-functional ports.

16. The wearable health monitoring device of claim 15 wherein one of the two of the at least two multi-functional ports functions as the ground, and the other one of the two of the at least two multi-functional ports receives the DC voltage, and the voltage difference is passed to the battery via a charging circuit of the electronic circuit, such that wearable health monitoring device is in the charging mode.

17. The wearable health monitoring device of claim 5 wherein another two of the at least two multi-functional ports are positioned in another one of the plurality of edge portions, the another one of the plurality of edge portions is a second receiving portion for receiving a mating portion of a second charging apparatus, and wherein the another two of the at least two multi-functional ports are configured to pass a larger voltage difference from the second charging apparatus to the battery via the electronic circuit.

18. The wearable health monitoring device of claim 13 further comprising an accelerometer, and wherein the referencing of the ECG reference table by the processor is dependent on acceleration readings from the accelerometer.

19. The wearable health monitoring device of any preceding claim further comprising any one of, or any combination of: a gyrometer, a thermometer and a SP02 sensor.

20. A kit of parts comprising a wearable health monitoring device of any preceding claim and the first charging apparatus.

21. A kit of parts comprising a wearable health monitoring device of claim 17 and the second charging apparatus.

22. A kit of parts of comprising a wearable health monitoring device of any one of claims 1 to 19 and the probes.