DOSAGE MEASUREMENT SYSTEM IN A PEN BUTTON

An apparatus includes a pen body of a drug injection pen including a dosage injection mechanism that produces a rotational motion when the drug injection pen dispenses a fluid. The apparatus also includes a button housing with at least part of a dosage measurement system disposed within the button housing. At least part of the dosage measurement system is coupled to receive the rotational motion from the dosage injection mechanism. The dosage measurement system includes one or more sensors positioned to output a signal in response to the rotational motion when the drug injection pen dispenses a fluid, and a controller coupled to the one or more sensors to receive the signal. A drug delivery control wheel of the drug injection pen is disposed between the body of the drug injection pen and the at least part of the dosage measurement system disposed in the button housing. 1. An apparatus , comprising:a pen body of a drug injection pen including a dosage injection mechanism that produces a rotational motion when the drug injection pen dispenses a fluid; one or more sensors positioned to output a signal in response to the rotational motion when the drug injection pen dispenses a fluid; and', 'a controller coupled to the one or more sensors to receive the signal; and, 'a button housing with at least part of a dosage measurement system disposed within the button housing, wherein at least part of the dosage measurement system is coupled to receive the rotational motion from the dosage injection mechanism, the dosage measurement system includinga drug delivery control wheel of the drug injection pen disposed between the body of the drug injection pen and the at least part of the dosage measurement system disposed in the button housing.2. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the dosage measurement system irremovably clips into a proximal end claim 1 , opposite the dispensing end claim 1 , of the drug injection pen.3. The apparatus of claim 2 , wherein the button housing is ...

STRAIN BASED DOSAGE MEASUREMENT

A drug injection pen includes a housing shaped to accept a cartridge containing a fluid, and a dosage injection mechanism positioned in the housing to produce a rotational motion and force the fluid out of the cartridge when the drug injection pen dispenses the fluid. A dosage measurement system is disposed in the drug injection pen and is coupled to measure a strain induced in a portion of the dosage measurement system. The dosage measurement system outputs a signal indicative of the strain, and the strain on the portion of the dosage measurement system changes when the dosage injection mechanism dispenses the fluid. The dosage measurement system outputs a signal indicative of the strain when the drug injection pen dispenses the fluid. A controller is coupled to the dosage measurement system, and the controller performs operations including recording the signal output from the dosage measurement system. 1. A drug injection pen , comprising:a housing shaped to accept a cartridge containing a fluid;a dosage injection mechanism positioned in the housing that produces a rotational motion when the drug injection pen dispenses the fluid out of the cartridge;a dosage measurement system disposed in the drug injection pen and coupled to measure a strain induced in a portion of the dosage measurement system, wherein the dosage measurement system outputs a signal indicative of the strain on the portion of the dosage measurement system, and wherein the strain on the portion of the dosage measurement system changes when the dosage injection mechanism dispenses the fluid; and 'recording the signal output from the dosage measurement system.', 'a controller coupled to the dosage measurement system and including logic that when executed by the controller causes the controller to perform operations including2. The drug injection pen of claim 1 , wherein the dosage measurement system includes one or more strain sensors disposed on a flexible component of the dosage measurement system ...

INGESTIBLE INTRAGASTRIC BALLOON

An intragastric balloon device including a deformable material is in an ingestible form for delivery to a stomach of a patient, expands in response to stimuli in the stomach, and degrades within a limited duration (such as 16 hours or some other value between 2 hours and 72 hours) to diminish to passable form in which remains of the intragastric balloon device are passable from the stomach. In an illustrative example, the deformable material is composed of silicone coated with parylene and encloses perfluoropentane fluid that transitions from liquid to gas due to stomach temperature to inflate the balloon in the stomach and occupy space in the stomach until a fuse of methacrylate erodes to unblock a vent conduit to permit escape of the perfluoropentane for deflating the balloon to diminish to passable form. 1. An intragastric balloon device comprising a deformable material , wherein the balloon device is in an ingestible form for delivery to a stomach of a patient , expands in response to stimuli in the stomach , and degrades within 72 hours to diminish to passable form in which remains of the intragastric balloon device are passable from the stomach.2. The intragastric balloon device of claim 1 , wherein the balloon device degrades in less than 36 hours to diminish to passable form.3. The intragastric balloon device of claim 1 , wherein the balloon device degrades in less than 24 hours to diminish to passable form.4. The intragastric balloon device of claim 1 , wherein the balloon device degrades in less than 16 hours to diminish to passable form.5. The intragastric balloon device of claim 1 , wherein the balloon device degrades in less than 12 hours to diminish to passable form.6. The intragastric balloon device of claim 1 , wherein the balloon device degrades in less than 8 hours to diminish to passable form.7. The intragastric balloon device of claim 1 , wherein the balloon device degrades in less than 6 hours to diminish to passable form.8. The intragastric ...

ELECTROSTATIC ROTARY ENCODER

A rotary encoder includes an electret unit, an electrostatic field sensor, and a controller. The electret unit generates an electrostatic field. The electrostatic field sensor is disposed proximate to the electret unit to sense a modulation of the electrostatic field that varies with rotation of one or more rotary components of the rotary encoder about a rotation axis of the rotary encoder. The controller is electrically coupled to the electrostatic field sensor to track activations of the electrostatic field sensor as the one or more rotary components rotate. The controller is configured to digitally encode a rotational position of the one or more rotary components based upon the activations. 1. A rotary encoder , comprising:an electret unit to generate an electrostatic field;an electrostatic field sensor disposed proximate to the electret unit to sense a modulation of the electrostatic field that varies with rotation of one or more rotary components of the rotary encoder about a rotation axis of the rotary encoder; anda controller electrically coupled to the electrostatic field sensor to track activations of the electrostatic field sensor as the one or more rotary components rotate, wherein the controller is configured to digitally encode a rotational position of the one or more rotary components based upon the activations.2. The rotary encoder of claim 1 , further comprising:an electrostatic shield disposed between the electret unit and the electrostatic field sensor, wherein the electrostatic shield modulates the electrostatic field at the electrostatic field sensor as the one or more rotary components are rotated about the rotation axis.3. The rotary encoder of claim 2 , wherein the electrostatic shield comprises:a first shield layer having a first hole pattern; anda second shield layer having a second hole pattern, wherein the one or more rotary components includes the first shield layer which rotates relative to the second shield layer forming shutters that ...

DERMAL CAMERA ATTACHMENT

A camera attachment apparatus for attaching to a mobile computing device having an integrated camera includes a house, a slide plate, an aperture, and an illumination system. The housing has a shape to mount on the mobile computing device. The slide plate is disposed within the housing and has a stowed position and a deployed position. The aperture is disposed in the slide plate. The illumination system is disposed on the slide plate. The slide plate is configured to align the aperture over the integrated camera when moved to the deployed position and does not obstruct the integrated camera in the stowed position. 1. A camera attachment apparatus for attaching to a mobile computing device having an integrated camera , the camera attachment apparatus comprising:a housing having a shape to mount on the mobile computing device;a slide plate disposed within the housing and having a stowed position and a deployed position;an aperture disposed in the slide plate; andan illumination system mounted to the slide plate,wherein the slide plate is configured to align the aperture over the integrated camera when moved to the deployed position and does not obstruct the integrated camera in the stowed position.2. The camera attachment apparatus of claim 1 , further comprising:a light shield that blocks ambient light and provides a fixed offset when deployed for acquiring near field images and does not obstruct far field images when stowed for acquiring the far field images.3. The camera attachment apparatus of claim 2 , wherein the light shield comprises a telescoping light shield that collapses when stowed and extends when deployed.4. The camera attachment apparatus of claim 3 , wherein the light shield is mechanically engaged with the slide plate such that a rotation of the light shield drives the slide plate to the deployed position and extends the light shield.5. The camera attachment apparatus of claim 3 , further comprising:static plates disposed on either side of the slide ...

Doppler Ultrasound Probe For Noninvasive Tracking Of Tendon Motion

Systems and methods for generating an input to a computing device based, at least in part, on movement data generated by one or more ultrasonic transducers are described herein. An example system may include at least one ultrasonic transducer configured to be mounted to a body surface that is proximate to at least one subsurface tendon, and a controller operably coupled to the at least one ultrasonic transducer. When mounted to a body surface, the at least one ultrasonic transducer is configured to detect movement of the at least one subsurface tendon. The controller is configured to operate the at least one ultrasonic transducer to generate movement data based on detected movement of the at least one subsurface tendon, and generate an input to a computing device based, at least in part, on the generated movement data. 1. A system , comprising:at least one ultrasonic transducer configured to be mounted to a body surface that is proximate to at least one subsurface tendon, wherein the at least one ultrasonic transducer is configured to detect movement of the at least one subsurface tendon when so mounted; and operating the at least one ultrasonic transducer to generate movement data based on detected movement of the at least one subsurface tendon; and', 'generating an input to a computing device based, at least in part, on the generated movement data., 'a controller operably coupled to the at least one ultrasonic transducer, and wherein the controller is configured to perform operations comprising2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the at least one ultrasonic transducer comprises an ultrasonic transducer array.3. The system of claim 1 , wherein operating the at least one ultrasonic transducer to generate movement data based on detected movement of the at least one subsurface tendon comprises:detecting a position of each of the one or more tendons based, at least in part, on a variation in image brightness; anddetermining a Doppler frequency shift at the detected ...

APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR TRACKING ADMINISTERING OF MEDICATION BY SYRINGE

An apparatus and methods for tracking administering of medication by syringes is provided. The apparatus may include a plunger head for a syringe. The plunger head may include a transducer that sends and receives ultrasonic signals. The plunger may also include an antenna and a microcontroller that interfaces with the transducer and the antenna. The plunger may also include a power source that powers the microcontroller and the transducer. The transducer, the antenna, the microcontroller, and the power source may be at least partially encapsulated in an elastomer housing that fits within a barrel of the syringe. The microcontroller may be programmed with instructions to calculate data representative of the quantity of medication dispensed from the barrel and transmit the data to a remote device via the antenna. 1. A system for tracking administering of a medication dispensed by a syringe , comprising: a transducer that sends and receives ultrasonic signals;', 'a first antenna; and', 'a first microcontroller that interfaces with the transducer and the antenna;, 'a plunger head that fits within a barrel of the syringe, the plunger head comprising a second microcontroller;', 'a second antenna that receives information from the plunger head via the first antenna; and', 'a power source;, 'a cuff that is attachable to the barrel of the syringe, the cuff comprisingwherein the first microcontroller is programmed with instructions to measure the time it takes for the ultrasonic signals to travel through the medication in the syringe to an end of the barrel and return to the transducer, the second microcontroller is programmed with instructions to calculate data representative of the quantity of medication dispensed from the barrel based on a change in the time measured.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the cuff is detachable from the syringe claim 1 , enabling the cuff to be reused with at least a second syringe.3. The system of claim 1 , wherein the transducer claim 1 , ...

APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR TRACKING ADMINISTERING OF MEDICATION BY MEDICATION INJECTION DEVICES

A method of manufacturing a plunger head for a medication injection device includes assembling at least a portion of a first component, assembling at least a portion of a second component, and assembling the first component into a cavity of the second component. The first component has a distal end and a proximal end, the distal end being configured for insertion into a barrel of the medication injection device before the proximal end, and the first component houses at least one electronic component. The second component is configured to at least partially surround the first component and to separate the first component from a medication contained within the barrel of the medication injection device. 1. A method of manufacturing a plunger head for a medication injection device , the method comprising:assembling at least a portion of a first component that houses at least one electronic component and has a distal end and a proximal end, the distal end being configured for insertion into a barrel of the medication injection device before the proximal end;assembling at least a portion of a second component having a cavity and being configured to at least partially surround the first component and to separate the first component from a medication contained within the barrel of the medication injection device; andassembling the first component into the cavity of the second component.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the at least one electronic component includes a transducer and a microcontroller coupled to the transducer claim 1 , the microcontroller being located between the transducer and the proximal end claim 1 , the transducer being configured to emit ultrasonic signals into the barrel of the medication injection device so that the ultrasonic signals travel along the barrel to an end of the barrel and return to the transducer when the plunger head is placed within the medication injection device.3. The method of claim 2 , wherein assembling at least a portion of ...

Device for measuring interpupillary distance in a head-mounted display unit

In certain embodiments, a head-mounted display may include one or more displays for displaying images. A left and right movable disk may be placed respectively between the left and right eyes of a user and the one or more displays. The user may wear the HMD, and may adjust the spacing between the left and right disks while viewing the computer-displayed image or images through holes in the plastic discs. For example, the HMD may display a stereo colored bulls eye pattern, of which the user can only see a portion because their vision is restricted to on-axis viewing by the discs. The computer may instruct the user to move the HMD disks until the user can only see the color in the center of the bulls eye. In certain embodiments, by performing the foregoing adjustment, the eye may be oriented on the proper optical axis to look through an optimal location of a lens.

INHALER DEVICES FOR DETECTING PROPER USAGE

Introduced here are low-cost, disposable inhaler devices that detect proper usage. More specifically, an inhaler device can include one or more electrodes that are disposed along a mouthpiece. Some embodiments of the inhaler device include a single electrode or multiple electrodes arranged along a single side of the mouthpiece, while other embodiments of the inhaler device include multiple electrodes arranged along at least two sides of the mouthpiece. When an individual places her lips on the mouthpiece, the electrode(s) can detect that the inhaler device is properly positioned against the lips. The inhaler device may only allow medication to be administered upon receiving an indication that a contact event has been recorded by some or all of the electrode(s). 1. An inhaler device for dispensing medicament , the inhaler device comprising:a structural body that includes a recess for holding a container of medicament to be inhaled by a subject;a locking mechanism that prevents a delivery mechanism from causing the medicament to be dispensed from the container;an electromechanical actuator that, when activated, displaces the locking mechanism;a mouthpiece that includes an electrode for detecting a presence of the subject's lips on the mouthpiece; and receive a signal from the electrode indicative of a contact event between the electrode and an upper lip or a bottom lip; and', 'transmit an activation signal to the electromechanical actuator that causes the electromechanical actuator to displace the locking mechanism, thereby permitting the subject to administer the medicament by interacting with the delivery mechanism., 'a controller configured to2. The inhaler device of claim 1 , wherein the container is a packet that includes a powdered medicament.3. The inhaler device of claim 2 , wherein the delivery mechanism includes a trigger button that claim 2 , upon being activated claim 2 , causes the packet to be opened.4. The inhaler device of claim 1 , wherein the ...

APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR TRACKING ADMINISTERING OF MEDICATION BY MEDICATION INJECTION DEVICES

A medication injection device including a plunger, a temperature sensor, an antenna, and a controller is described herein. The plunger is configured to dispense medication. The temperature sensor is to measure a temperature representative of an ambient temperature of the medication injection device. The antenna is to pair the medication injection device with a remote device. The controller includes logic that when executed causes the medication injection device to perform operations, including placing the medication injection device into a low-power sleep mode, measuring the temperature with the temperature sensor at a regular interval while the medication injection in the low-power sleep mode, detecting a temperature change with the temperature sensor while in the low-power sleep mode, transitioning the medication injection device into an initialization mode in response, and pairing the medication injection device with the remote device using the antenna while in the initialization mode. 1. A medication injection device , comprising:a plunger configured to dispense medication from the medication injection device when the plunger is depressed;a temperature sensor coupled to the plunger to measure a temperature representative of an ambient temperature of the medication injection device;an antenna to pair the medication injection device with a remote device; placing the medication injection device into a low-power sleep mode;', 'measuring the temperature with the temperature sensor at a regular interval while the medication injection in the low-power sleep mode;', 'detecting a temperature change with the temperature sensor while in the low-power sleep mode;', 'transitioning the medication injection device into an initialization mode, in response to the temperature change; and', 'pairing the medication injection device with the remote device using the antenna while in the initialization mode., 'a controller coupled to the temperature sensor and the antenna, wherein the ...

Pressure sensor in plunger head to wake up electronics

A plunger head for a fluid injection device includes a transducer disposed in the plunger head to measure a compressive force when applied to the plunger head. The plunger head also includes a power source and a microcontroller disposed in the plunger head. The microcontroller is coupled to the power source and the transducer, and the microcontroller is coupled to enter a high-power mode in response to sensing application of the compressive force to the plunger head.

Multiple transducer injection measurement

A plunger head for a medication injection device includes a first ultrasonic transducer coupled to emit ultrasonic signals, where the first ultrasonic transducer is oriented within the plunger head to send the ultrasonic signals along a length of a barrel of the medication injection device when the plunger head is disposed in the barrel. A second ultrasonic transducer is disposed within the plunger head and oriented to receive reflections of the ultrasonic signals. A controller is disposed in the plunger head and coupled to the first ultrasonic transducer and the second ultrasonic transducer. The controller includes logic that when executed by the controller causes the controller to perform operations including instructing the first ultrasonic transducer to emit the ultrasonic signals.

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR WEARABLE EMERGENCY DRUG INJECTION DEVICES

One example device includes a housing defining at least a first chamber and a second chamber; an injector disposed within the housing and comprising: a hollow needle coupled to a first piston, the first piston disposed and translatable within the first chamber towards a first end of the first chamber, the first piston defining a void intersecting a hollow portion of the hollow needle; a first propellant disposed within the first chamber and positioned to force the first piston towards the first end of the first chamber in response to activation of the first propellant; a dispenser disposed within the housing and comprising: a second piston disposed and translatable within the second chamber towards a first end of the second chamber; a second propellant disposed within the second chamber and positioned to force the second piston towards the first end of the second chamber in response to activation of the second propellant; and wherein translation of the first piston to the first end of the first chamber exposes the void to the first end of the second chamber. 1. A device for injecting a substance into a patient , comprising:a housing defining at least a first chamber and a second chamber; a hollow needle corresponding to a first piston, the first piston disposed and translatable within the first chamber towards a first end of the first chamber, the first piston defining a void intersecting a hollow portion of the hollow needle;', 'a first propellant disposed within the first chamber and positioned to force the first piston towards the first end of the first chamber in response to activation of the first propellant;, 'an injector disposed within the housing and comprising a second piston disposed and translatable within the second chamber towards a first end of the second chamber;', 'a second propellant disposed within the second chamber and positioned to force the second piston towards the first end of the second chamber in response to activation of the second ...

DOSAGE TRACKING APPARATUS, DOSAGE TRACKING SYSTEM, AND RELATED METHODS OF USE

An apparatus for tracking an amount of dispensed fluid, a system for fluid injection including the apparatus, and related methods of use are described. In an embodiment, the apparatus includes a dosage meter shaped to couple with a leadscrew and a cartridge containing a fluid for injection, and configured to track fluid injection. In an embodiment, the dosage meter includes an index wheel including a plurality of teeth, wherein the index wheel is shaped to position coaxially with a major axis of the leadscrew and to receive rotational motion from the leadscrew; and a cantilevered protrusion positioned to deflect due to contact with the plurality of teeth as the index wheel rotates coaxially with the leadscrew inducing a strain in the cantilevered protrusion, wherein the dosage meter outputs a signal indicative of the strain. 1. An apparatus for measuring an amount of a dispensed fluid , the apparatus comprising: an index wheel including a plurality of teeth, wherein the index wheel is shaped to position coaxially with a major axis of the leadscrew and to receive rotational motion from the leadscrew; and', 'a cantilevered protrusion positioned to deflect due to contact with the plurality of teeth as the index wheel rotates coaxially with the leadscrew; and, 'a dosage meter shaped to couple with a leadscrew and a cartridge containing a fluid for injection, the dosage meter comprisinga leadscrew extender positioned to be in contact at a first end of the leadscrew extender with a portion of the cartridge and at a second end of the leadscrew extender with an end of the leadscrew.2. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the leadscrew extender is shaped to receive motion of the leadscrew along the major axis of the leadscrew.3. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the leadscrew extender is shaped to transfer the rotational motion of the leadscrew to the index wheel.4. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of teeth extend radially from a major axis of the index wheel. ...

Automated blood sampling device

Devices are provided to automatically access blood from beneath or within skin. These devices include an injector configured to drive a needle into the skin and subsequently to retract the needle from the skin. These devices additionally include a seal to which suction is applied. To drive the needle into the skin, the needle is first driven through the seal, creating at least one hole in the seal. The suction applied to the seal acts to draw blood from the puncture formed in the skin by the needle, through the at least one hole in the seal, and to a sensor, blood storage element, or other payload. These devices can be wearable and configured to automatically access blood from skin, for example, to access blood from the skin at one or more points in time while a wearer of a device is sleeping.

Automated sequential injection and blood draw

Devices are provided to automatically inject drugs or other payloads into or beneath skin. These devices include an injector configured to drive a hollow needle into the skin and subsequently to deliver the payload through the hollow needle. Applied suction acts to draw blood from the puncture formed in the skin through the hollow needle, into the device, and to a sensor, blood storage element, or other payload. In some examples, the blood is drawn through the hollow needle when the hollow needle is penetrating the skin. In some examples, these devices are additionally configured to retract the hollow needle from the skin and/or to perform some other functions. These devices can be wearable and configured to automatically access blood or deliver a payload into skin, for example, to operate at one or more points in time while a wearer of a device is sleeping. 1. A system comprising:a hollow needle, wherein the hollow needle comprises a channel, and wherein the hollow needle comprises a first end that is configured to penetrate skin;a reservoir, wherein the reservoir contains a payload;an injector, wherein the injector is configured to drive the hollow needle into the skin to form a puncture in the skin, wherein the injector is further configured to deliver the payload from the reservoir into the skin via the channel and to retract the hollow needle from the skin subsequent to driving the hollow needle into the skin; anda suction source configured to provide suction, wherein the suction provided by the suction source is configured to draw blood from the formed puncture in the skin into the system.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the injector comprises:a chamber, wherein the hollow needle is disposed at least partially within the chamber;a piston disposed in the chamber, wherein the hollow needle is coupled to the piston, wherein the piston comprises the reservoir, and wherein the piston is configured to slidably move within the chamber; anda propellant, wherein the ...

Drug cartridge with acoustic reflector

A drug cartridge to dispense an injectable fluid includes a drug cartridge body with an interior cavity, a neck region, and a bottom region. The neck region is opposite the bottom region and the interior cavity of the drug cartridge narrows in the neck region and is wider than most of the neck region in the bottom region. A transducer is coupled to emit sonic waves into the interior cavity towards the neck region, and the neck region is geometrically oriented to reflect the sonic waves back from the neck region towards the bottom region to be received by the transducer.

Automated blood sampling device

Devices are provided to automatically access blood from beneath or within skin. These devices include an injector configured to drive a needle into the skin and subsequently to retract the needle from the skin. These devices additionally include a seal to which suction is applied. To drive the needle into the skin, the needle is first driven through the seal, creating at least one hole in the seal. The suction applied to the seal acts to draw blood from the puncture formed in the skin by the needle, through the at least one hole in the seal, and to a sensor, blood storage element, or other payload. These devices can be wearable and configured to automatically access blood from skin, for example, to access blood from the skin at one or more points in time while a wearer of a device is sleeping. 1. A system comprising:a needle, wherein the needle is configured to penetrate skin;an injector, wherein the injector is configured to drive the needle into the skin to form a puncture in the skin and subsequently to retract the needle from the skin;a sensor, wherein the sensor is configured to detect a property of blood to which the sensor is exposed; and operate the injector to drive the needle into the skin; and', 'subsequent to operating the injector to drive the needle into the skin, operate the sensor to detect a property of blood received from the skin in response to the needle being driven into the skin., 'a controller configured to2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the system comprises a body-mountable device claim 1 , wherein the body-mountable device is configured to be mounted to a surface of the skin claim 1 , and wherein the controller is configured to operate the injector to drive the needle into the skin at a specified point in time.3. The system of claim 2 , wherein the needle claim 2 , injector claim 2 , and sensor are disposed in a first sampling section of the body-mountable device claim 2 , and wherein the body-mountable device further comprises one or ...

PRESSURE SENSOR IN PLUNGER HEAD TO WAKE UP ELECTRONICS

A plunger head for a fluid injection device includes a transducer disposed in the plunger head to measure a compressive force when applied to the plunger head. The plunger head also includes a power source and a microcontroller disposed in the plunger head. The microcontroller is coupled to the power source and the transducer, and the microcontroller is coupled to enter a high-power mode in response to sensing application of the compressive force to the plunger head. 1. A plunger head for a fluid injection device , comprising:a transducer disposed in the plunger head to measure a compressive force when applied to the plunger head;a power source disposed in the plunger head; anda microcontroller disposed in the plunger head and coupled to the power source and the transducer, wherein the microcontroller is coupled to enter a high-power mode in response to sensing application of the compressive force to the plunger head.2. The plunger head of claim 1 , wherein prior to receiving the compressive force the plunger head is in a power conservation mode claim 1 , wherein the high-power mode consumes more power than the power conservation mode claim 1 , and wherein the transducer is coupled to the microcontroller to output a signal to the microcontroller indicative of the compressive force.3. The plunger head of claim 2 , wherein the transducer includes a force sensor claim 2 , and wherein prior to receiving the compressive force there is no electrical contact between the power source and microcontroller claim 2 , and wherein in response to the compressive force the force sensor couples the microcontroller and the power source to initiate the high-power mode.4. The plunger head of claim 3 , wherein the power conservation mode is an off-state.5. The plunger head of claim 2 , further comprising a temperature sensor claim 2 , coupled to the microcontroller claim 2 , to measure a temperature of a fluid in the fluid injection device claim 2 , and wherein the microcontroller ...

APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR TRACKING ADMINISTERING OF MEDICATION BY MEDICATION INJECTION DEVICES

Various apparatuses and methods for tracking the administration of medication by medication injection devices are provided. A plunger head for a medication injection device may include a first component that houses electronic components and a second component that couples to the first component to form the plunger head. When the plunger head is installed within a barrel of the medication injection device the second component may separate the first component from medication contained within the barrel. 1. A plunger head for a medication injection device , comprising:a first component having electronic components housed within;a second component at least partially surrounding the first component;wherein the second component separates the first component from medication contained within a barrel of the medication injection device.2. The plunger head of claim 1 , wherein the second component defines a bucket shape having a cavity and the first component is positioned within the cavity.3. The plunger head of claim 2 , further comprising a third component sealing the first component in the cavity of the second component.4. The plunger head of claim 1 , wherein:the first component is formed using a lower-temperature manufacturing process and undergoes a lower-temperature sterilization; andthe second component is formed of an elastomer and undergoes a higher-temperature sterilization.5. The plunger head of claim 1 , wherein:the first component is at least partially formed of a silicone rubber; andthe second component is formed of butyl rubber.6. The plunger head of claim 1 , wherein the first component includes a structural support system protecting the electronic components and controlling deformation of the plunger head when compressive force is applied during injection of the medication.7. The plunger head of claim 1 , wherein the second component defines a bucket shaped having a cavity and the electronic components are inserted into the cavity and then an elastomer is ...

AIR SHOT DETECTION

A medication injection device includes a barrel and a plunger disposed to dispense a fluid from the barrel. A dosage tracking system is coupled to output data indicative of the fluid dispensed. A controller is disposed within the medication injection device and coupled to receive the data from the dosage tracking system. The controller includes logic that when executed by the controller causes the controller to perform operations including determining, based on the data, whether an air shot event occurred while dispensing the fluid. 1. A medication injection device , comprising:a barrel;a plunger disposed to dispense a fluid from the barrel;a dosage tracking system coupled to output data indicative of an amount the fluid dispensed; anda controller disposed within the medication injection device and coupled to receive the data from the dosage tracking system, wherein the controller includes logic that when executed by the controller causes the controller to perform operations including:determining, based on the data, whether an air shot event occurred while dispensing the fluid.2. The medication injection device of claim 1 , wherein the air shot event includes a fluid dispensing event where the fluid is deemed not to have been injected into a body.3. The medication injection device of claim 1 , wherein the dosage tracking system is disposed in a plunger head of the medication injection device and the dosage tracking system includes an ultrasonic transducer oriented to emit ultrasonic signals through the fluid along a length of the barrel and to receive reflected ultrasonic signals claim 1 , wherein the data is indicative of a time of flight of the ultrasonic signals claim 1 , and wherein determining claim 1 , based on the data claim 1 , whether the air shot event occurred while dispensing the fluid comprises:measuring a distance travelled by the plunger head based upon the time of flight of the ultrasonic signals; anddetermining that the air shot event occurred while ...

APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR TRACKING ADMINISTERING OF MEDICATION BY MEDICATION INJECTION DEVICES

A method of tracking injections includes depressing a plunger of a medication injection device, and sending and receiving ultrasonic signals from a plunger head installed within a barrel of the medical injection device. The method also includes measuring a time of flight for the signals to travel through the medication, and determining a position of the plunger head based on the time of flight of the signals. Additionally, a plurality of data samples representative of the position of the plunger are logged, and a distance the plunger head travels is calculated. This is used to calculate the quantity of the medication dispensed based on the distance the plunger head travels. An external device is then used to back-interpolate a time corresponding to each data sample logged in order to determine the time the quantity of medication was dispensed. 1. A method of tracking injections of a medication delivered by a medication injection device , the method comprises:depressing a plunger of the medication injection device;sending and receiving ultrasonic signals from a plunger head installed within a barrel of the medical injection device;measuring a time of flight for the signals to travel through the medication to an end of the barrel and return to the plunger head;determining a position of the plunger head based on the time of flight of the signals and logging a data sample representative of the position;logging a plurality of the data samples representative of the position of the plunger at an approximately regular interval;calculating a distance the plunger head travels based on a change in the position;calculating a quantity of the medication dispensed based on the distance the plunger head travels;transmitting wirelessly the quantity of the medication dispensed to a remote device;back-interpolating a time corresponding to each data sample logged in order to determine the time the quantity of medication was dispensed, using a timekeeper in the remote device as a ...

Automated blood sampling device

Devices are provided to automatically access blood from beneath or within skin. These devices include an injector configured to drive a needle into the skin and subsequently to retract the needle from the skin. These devices additionally include a seal to which suction is applied. To drive the needle into the skin, the needle is first driven through the seal, creating at least one hole in the seal. The suction applied to the seal acts to draw blood from the puncture formed in the skin by the needle, through the at least one hole in the seal, and to a sensor, blood storage element, or other payload. These devices can be wearable and configured to automatically access blood from skin, for example, to access blood from the skin at one or more points in time while a wearer of a device is sleeping. 1. A system comprising:a needle;a chamber, wherein the needle is disposed at least partially within the chamber;a propellant disposed within the chamber;a piston disposed within the chamber, wherein the needle is coupled to the piston, wherein the piston is configured to slidably move within the chamber, wherein the propellant is ignitable to slidably move the piston within the chamber to drive the needle into skin to form a puncture in the skin, wherein the piston includes a vent, wherein the vent is configured to allow gases produced by ignition of the propellant to vent through the piston.2. The system of claim 1 , further comprising a spring claim 1 , wherein the spring is coupled to the piston claim 1 , wherein the piston slidably moving within the chamber to drive the needle into skin compresses the spring such that claim 1 , subsequent to the needle being driven into the skin claim 1 , the spring exerts a force to retract the needle from the skin.3. The system of claim 1 , wherein the chamber comprises a further vent claim 1 , wherein the further vent is configured to allow gases produced by ignition of the propellant to vent through the further vent into an environment ...

Weight And Activity Monitoring Footwear

The technology described herein relates to weight and activity monitoring footwear. In an implementation, an article of footwear is disclosed. The article of footwear includes a sole, a plurality of pressure sensors, a motion sensor, and a microcontroller. The sole has a plurality of pressure chambers. The plurality of pressure sensors take pressure readings from the plurality of pressure chambers. The motion sensor senses motion of the article of footwear. The microcontroller is operatively coupled with the plurality of pressure sensors and the motion sensor and is configured to detect when a subject enters a standing state from the motion of the article of footwear, and in response to detecting the standing state, determine a weight applied by the subject against the sole from the pressure readings. The plurality of pressure chambers are disposed to support the weight applied by the subject against the sole in the standing state. 1. An article of footwear comprising:a sole having a plurality of pressure chambers;a plurality of pressure sensors that take pressure readings from the plurality of pressure chambers;a motion sensor that senses motion of the article of footwear;a microcontroller operatively coupled with the plurality of pressure sensors and the motion sensor and configured to:detect when a subject enters a standing state from the motion of the article of footwear; and 'wherein the plurality of pressure chambers are disposed to support the weight applied by the subject against the sole in the standing state.', 'in response to detecting the standing state, determine a weight applied by the subject against the sole from the pressure readings,'}2. The article of footwear of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of pressure chambers comprise hydraulic chambers molded into at least four quadrants of the sole claim 1 , and wherein the pressure readings comprise hydraulic pressure readings.3. The article of footwear of claim 1 , wherein to determine the weight applied ...

DOSAGE TRACKING APPARATUS, DOSAGE TRACKING SYSTEM, AND RELATED METHODS OF USE

An apparatus for tracking an amount of dispensed fluid, a system for fluid injection including the apparatus, and related methods of use are described. In an embodiment, the apparatus includes a dosage meter shaped to couple with a leadscrew and a cartridge containing a fluid for injection, and configured to track fluid injection. In an embodiment, the dosage meter includes an index wheel including a plurality of teeth, wherein the index wheel is shaped to position coaxially with a major axis of the leadscrew and to receive rotational motion from the leadscrew; and a cantilevered protrusion positioned to deflect due to contact with the plurality of teeth as the index wheel rotates coaxially with the leadscrew inducing a strain in the cantilevered protrusion, wherein the dosage meter outputs a signal indicative of the strain. 1. An apparatus for measuring an amount of a dispensed fluid , the apparatus comprising: an index wheel including a plurality of teeth, wherein the index wheel is shaped to position coaxially with a major axis of the leadscrew and to receive rotational motion from the leadscrew; and', 'a cantilevered protrusion positioned to deflect due to contact with the plurality of teeth as the index wheel rotates coaxially with the leadscrew inducing a strain in the cantilevered protrusion, wherein the dosage meter outputs a signal indicative of the strain; and, 'a dosage meter shaped to couple with a leadscrew and a cartridge containing a fluid for injection, the dosage meter comprisinga leadscrew extender positioned to be in contact at a first end of the leadscrew extender with a portion of the cartridge and at a second end of the leadscrew extender with an end of the leadscrew.2. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the leadscrew extender is shaped to receive motion of the leadscrew along the major axis of the leadscrew.3. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the leadscrew extender is shaped to transfer the rotational motion of the leadscrew to the index ...

Hardware to determine when a diaper needs to be changed and provide electronic notification

A moisture-sensitive device is provided that includes a fluid-sensitive battery. Exposure of the battery to urine or some other fluid causes the battery to provide a voltage that can be used to power a transmitter. The transmitter can then provide a wireless transmission indicative of the battery having been exposed to the fluid. This moisture-sensitive device can be provided in a diaper and transmissions produced by the device can be detected using a smart phone or other device and used to indicate to a user that the diaper has been soiled. By powering the transmitter using the fluid-sensitive battery and storing the battery in a dry state, such a device can be stored for a protracted period of time before use. 1. A system comprising:a transmitter; a first electrode, wherein the first electrode comprises magnesium metal;', 'a second electrode, wherein the second electrode comprises an absorbent conductive material; and', 'a separator, wherein the separator is in contact with both the first electrode and the second electrode, wherein the separator comprises an absorbent material, and wherein a salt is disposed within at least one of the separator or the absorbent conductive material of the second electrode, wherein the battery provides an electrical voltage between the first electrode and the second electrode when exposed to an aqueous fluid; and, 'a fluid-sensitive battery comprisinga controller operably coupled to the transmitter and the fluid-sensitive battery, wherein the controller operates the transmitter to transmit a radio-frequency signal in response to the battery providing the electrical voltage.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the controller comprises a computing device.3. The system of claim 1 , wherein the fluid-sensitive battery is incorporated into a diaper.4. The system of claim 3 , wherein the transmitter and the controller are incorporated into the diaper claim 3 , wherein the diaper comprises first and second conductive clasps that can be ...

APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR TRACKING ADMINISTERING OF MEDICATION BY SYRINGE

An apparatus and methods for tracking administering of medication by syringes is provided. The apparatus may include a plunger head for a syringe. The plunger head may include a transducer that sends and receives ultrasonic signals. The plunger may also include an antenna and a microcontroller that interfaces with the transducer and the antenna. The plunger may also include a power source that powers the microcontroller and the transducer. The transducer, the antenna, the microcontroller, and the power source may be at least partially encapsulated in an elastomer housing that fits within a barrel of the syringe. The microcontroller may be programmed with instructions to calculate data representative of the quantity of medication dispensed from the barrel and transmit the data to a remote device via the antenna. 1. A method of tracking administering of a medication delivered by syringe , the method comprises:sending and receiving ultrasonic signals from a plunger head installed within a barrel of the syringe in response to depression of the plunger head;measuring the time it takes for the signals to travel through the medication to an end of the barrel and return to the transducer;calculating the distance the plunger head travels based on a change in the time;calculating a quantity of the medication dispensed based on the distance the plunger head travels; andselectively transmitting wirelessly the quantity of the medication dispensed to a remote device.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the plunger head includes a force sensor and the depression of the plunger is detected by the force sensor and is used as an indication that dispensing of the medication is beginning.3. The method of claim 1 , further comprises uploading of the quantity of the medication dispensed and a time and a date the quantity was dispensed to a cloud where it is saved to a patient's medical history and is reviewed by a caregiver.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the syringe is a standard ...

Automated sequential injection and blood draw

Devices are provided to automatically inject drugs or other payloads into or beneath skin. These devices include an injector configured to drive a hollow needle into the skin and subsequently to deliver the payload through the hollow needle. Applied suction acts to draw blood from the puncture formed in the skin through the hollow needle, into the device, and to a sensor, blood storage element, or other payload. In some examples, the blood is drawn through the hollow needle when the hollow needle is penetrating the skin. In some examples, these devices are additionally configured to retract the hollow needle from the skin and/or to perform some other functions. These devices can be wearable and configured to automatically access blood or deliver a payload into skin, for example, to operate at one or more points in time while a wearer of a device is sleeping.

ULTRASOUND TRACKING OF MEDICATION DELIVERY BY MEDICATION INJECTION DEVICES

A medication injection device includes a plunger head having an elastomer housing that fits within a barrel. The plunger head includes an ultrasonic transducer that sends and receives ultrasonic signals in the form of ultrasonic waves, an antenna, a microcontroller that interfaces with the ultrasonic transducer and the antenna, and a power source that powers the microcontroller and the ultrasonic transducer. The ultrasonic transducer, the antenna, the microcontroller, and the power source may be at least partially encapsulated in the elastomer housing. The microcontroller may be programmed to measure echo times of the ultrasonic waves, compare consecutive echo times, and apply a compensation factor. The microcontroller may also be programmed to calculate a volume of medication dispensed from the barrel. 1. A machine-accessible storage medium providing instructions that , when executed by a medication injection device , will cause the medication injection device to perform operations comprising:sending ultrasonic signals as ultrasonic waves from a plunger head into a barrel of the medication injection device;receiving reflections of the ultrasonic waves from the barrel;measuring echo times of ultrasonic waves;comparing consecutive echo times of the ultrasonic waves to determine a change in distance travelled by the plunger head;assessing whether the change in distance is deemed to be indicative of an error;applying a compensation factor to the change in distance when the change in distance is deemed to be indicative of the error; andcalculating a volume of medication dispensed from the barrel based on the change in distance of the plunger head, as compensated by the compensation factor when the change in distance is deemed to be indicative of the error.2. The machine-accessible storage medium of claim 1 , wherein assessing whether the change in distance is deemed to be indicative of the error comprises:identifying when the change in distance is greater than or equal ...

INHALER DEVICES FOR MONITORING AIRFLOW

Introduced here are low-cost, disposable inhaler devices that monitor airflow. More specifically, an inhaler device can include a robust airflow sensor and a flow control value that allows the inhaler device to provide feedback regarding inhalation effort during the administration of medication. The airflow sensor can be disposed within a primary flow channel through which medication travels or a secondary flow channel through which only air travels. Feedback can be transmitted to a computing device (e.g., a mobile phone) in real time. Alternatively, feedback can be recorded to a local memory and then subsequently transmitted to the computing device. Some embodiments of the inhaler device also support a lung capacity check functionality (also referred to as a “spirometry functionality”). These features enable respiratory diseases to be treated more effectively at lower cost. 1. An inhaler device for dispensing mediation , the inhaler device comprising:a structural body that includes a recess for holding a container of medication to be inhaled by a subject;a flow channel through which the medication travels when air is drawn through the flow channel by the subject;a thermistor affixed within the flow channel;an operational amplifier that passes a fixed current through the thermistor; and monitor an output voltage of the operational amplifier,', 'wherein the variation is caused by the operational amplifier attempting to maintain the fixed current, and', 'identify a variation in the output voltage exceeding a certain threshold,'}, 'estimate an airflow property based on the variation., 'a voltage monitoring circuit configured to2. The inhaler device of claim 1 , wherein the container is a packet that includes a powered medicament.3. The inhaler device of claim 1 , wherein the container is a pressurized canister that includes an aerosol medicament.4. The inhaler device of claim 1 , further comprising:a locking mechanism that prevents a delivery mechanism from causing the ...

Air shot detection

A medication injection device includes a barrel and a plunger disposed to dispense a fluid from the barrel. A dosage tracking system is coupled to output data indicative of the fluid dispensed. A controller is disposed within the medication injection device and coupled to receive the data from the dosage tracking system. The controller includes logic that when executed by the controller causes the controller to perform operations including determining, based on the data, whether an air shot event occurred while dispensing the fluid.

Automated sequential injection and blood draw

Devices are provided to automatically inject drugs or other payloads into or beneath skin. These devices include an injector configured to drive a hollow needle into the skin and subsequently to deliver the payload through the hollow needle. Applied suction acts to draw blood from the puncture formed in the skin through the hollow needle, into the device, and to a sensor, blood storage element, or other payload. In some examples, the blood is drawn through the hollow needle when the hollow needle is penetrating the skin. In some examples, these devices are additionally configured to retract the hollow needle from the skin and/or to perform some other functions. These devices can be wearable and configured to automatically access blood or deliver a payload into skin, for example, to operate at one or more points in time while a wearer of a device is sleeping.

Ultrasound tracking of medication delivery by medication injection devices

A medication injection device includes a plunger head having an elastomer housing that fits within a barrel. The plunger head includes an ultrasonic transducer that sends and receives ultrasonic signals in the form of ultrasonic waves, an antenna, a microcontroller that interfaces with the ultrasonic transducer and the antenna, and a power source that powers the microcontroller and the ultrasonic transducer. The ultrasonic transducer, the antenna, the microcontroller, and the power source may be at least partially encapsulated in the elastomer housing. The microcontroller may be programmed to measure echo times of the ultrasonic waves, compare consecutive echo times, and apply a compensation factor. The microcontroller may also be programmed to calculate a volume of medication dispensed from the barrel.

Automated blood sampling device

Devices are provided to automatically access blood from beneath or within skin. These devices (100) include an injector (135) configured to drive a needle (120) into the skin and subsequently to retract the needle from the skin. These devices additionally include a seal (143) to which suction is applied. To drive the needle into the skin, the needle is first driven through the seal, creating at least one hole (144) in the seal. The suction applied to the seal acts to draw blood from the puncture formed in the skin by the needle, through the at least one hole in the seal, and to a sensor (140), blood storage element, or other payload. These devices can be wearable and configured to automatically access blood from skin, for example, to access blood from the skin at one or more points in time while a wearer of a device is sleeping.

Systems and methods for wearable emergency drug injection devices

One example device includes a housing defining at least one chamber and an injector disposed within the housing and comprising a hollow needle corresponding to a piston, the piston disposed and translatable within the chamber towards a first end of the chamber, the piston defining a void intersecting a hollow portion of the hollow needle, a needle guide configured to bend the hollow needle in response to movement of the hollow needle through the needle guide; and a propellant disposed within the chamber and positioned to force the piston towards the first end of the chamber in response to activation of the propellant.

Air shot detection

A medication injection device includes a barrel and a plunger disposed to dispense a fluid from the barrel. A dosage tracking system is coupled to output data indicative of the fluid dispensed. A controller is disposed within the medication injection device and coupled to receive the data from the dosage tracking system. The controller includes logic that when executed by the controller causes the controller to perform operations including determining, based on the data, whether an air shot event occurred while dispensing the fluid.

Dosage tracking apparatus, dosage tracking system, and related methods of use

Ultrasound communications for low-power biosensor applications

The present disclosure relates to systems and methods for low-power, data transmission using ultrasound signals. In one implementation, a data transmission system includes an ultrasound transducer configured to generate ultrasound signals in response to power supplied from a power source, and a mechanical ultrasound amplifier coupled to the ultrasound transducer, the ultrasound amplifier having a substrate adapted to function as a soundboard to amplify the ultrasound signals. The range of the data transmission system may be increased with a relay system. The relay system may include one or more detectors and one or more repeaters.

Ingestible intragastric balloon

An intragastric balloon device including a deformable material is in an ingestible form for delivery to a stomach of a patient, expands in response to stimuli in the stomach, and degrades within a limited duration (such as 16 hours or some other value between 2 hours and 72 hours) to diminish to passable form in which remains of the intragastric balloon device are passable from the stomach. In an illustrative example, the deformable material is composed of silicone coated with parylene and encloses perfluoropentane fluid that transitions from liquid to gas due to stomach temperature to inflate the balloon in the stomach and occupy space in the stomach until a fuse of methacrylate erodes to unblock a vent conduit to permit escape of the perfluoropentane for deflating the balloon to diminish to passable form.

Dosage measurement system in a pen button

An apparatus includes a pen body of a drug injection pen including a dosage injection mechanism that produces a rotational motion when the drug injection pen dispenses a fluid. The apparatus also includes a button housing with at least part of a dosage measurement system disposed within the button housing. At least part of the dosage measurement system is coupled to receive the rotational motion from the dosage injection mechanism. The dosage measurement system includes one or more sensors positioned to output a signal in response to the rotational motion when the drug injection pen dispenses a fluid, and a controller coupled to the one or more sensors to receive the signal. A drug delivery control wheel of the drug injection pen is disposed between the body of the drug injection pen and the at least part of the dosage measurement system disposed in the button housing.

Strain based dosage measurement

A drug injection pen includes a housing shaped to accept a cartridge containing a fluid, and a dosage injection mechanism positioned in the housing to produce a rotational motion and force the fluid out of the cartridge when the drug injection pen dispenses the fluid. A dosage measurement system is disposed in the drug injection pen and is coupled to measure a strain induced in a portion of the dosage measurement system. The dosage measurement system outputs a signal indicative of the strain, and the strain on the portion of the dosage measurement system changes when the dosage injection mechanism dispenses the fluid. The dosage measurement system outputs a signal indicative of the strain when the drug injection pen dispenses the fluid. A controller is coupled to the dosage measurement system, and the controller performs operations including recording the signal output from the dosage measurement system.

Dosage tracking apparatus, dosage tracking system, and related methods of use

An apparatus for tracking an amount of dispensed fluid, a system for fluid injection including the apparatus, and related methods of use are described. In an embodiment, the apparatus includes a dosage meter shaped to couple with a leadscrew and a cartridge containing a fluid for injection, and configured to track fluid injection. In an embodiment, the dosage meter includes an index wheel including a plurality of teeth, wherein the index wheel is shaped to position coaxially with a major axis of the leadscrew and to receive rotational motion from the leadscrew; and a cantilevered protrusion positioned to deflect due to contact with the plurality of teeth as the index wheel rotates coaxially with the leadscrew inducing a strain in the cantilevered protrusion, wherein the dosage meter outputs a signal indicative of the strain.

Apparatus and methods for tracking administering of medication by syringe

An apparatus and methods for tracking administering of medication by syringes is provided. The apparatus may include a plunger head for a syringe. The plunger head may include a transducer that sends and receives ultrasonic signals. The plunger may also include an antenna and a microcontroller that interfaces with the transducer and the antenna. The plunger may also include a power source that powers the microcontroller and the transducer. The transducer, the antenna, the microcontroller, and the power source may be at least partially encapsulated in an elastomer housing that fits within a barrel of the syringe. The microcontroller may be programmed with instructions to calculate data representative of the quantity of medication dispensed from the barrel and transmit the data to a remote device via the antenna.

Apparatus for tracking administering of medication by medication injection devices

Automated flying insect separator

An insect separating apparatus may include a sensor positioned to detect one or more insects when present within a test chamber. For example, the sensor may emit signals into the test chamber and receive reflected signals indicative of Doppler shifts caused by movement of the one or more insects. Based on information from the sensor, a computing device may determine a characteristic of the one or more insects in the chamber, such as a wing beat frequency, sex, or other characteristic. The computing device may instruct different responses based on the characteristic determined, such as activating an air mover to divert detected mosquitos out of the test chamber in response to the determined characteristics matching those of female mosquitos, or deactivating or maintaining the air mover in an inactive condition in response to the determined characteristics matching those of male mosquitos, for example, to allow passage through the chamber into a collection receptacle.

Plunger head with multiple ultrasonic transducers for use in a medicament delivery device and method therefor

A plunger head for a medication injection device includes a first ultrasonic transducer coupled to emit ultrasonic signals, where the first ultrasonic transducer is oriented within the plunger head to send the ultrasonic signals along a length of a barrel of the medication injection device when the plunger head is disposed in the barrel. A second ultrasonic transducer is disposed within the plunger head and oriented to receive reflections of the ultrasonic signals. A controller is disposed in the plunger head and coupled to the first ultrasonic transducer and the second ultrasonic transducer. The controller includes logic that when executed by the controller causes the controller to perform operations including instructing the first ultrasonic transducer to emit the ultrasonic signals.

Systems and methods for analyzing exhaled breath

Described herein are systems and methods of collecting, processing, and analyzing breath exhaled from a subject. Specifically, described herein are systems and methods for minimizing the amount of breath needed for analysis. Further disclosed herein are systems and methods to analyze compounds contained in a subject's breath that are indicative of certain ailments and/or present in a low concentration in the subject's breath. The systems can include a reaction chamber, a breath inlet, a reactant inlet, a fluid atomizer, and a receiving substrate for analyzing the process subject's breath. The methods can include reacting a subject's breath with a reactant to analyze the contents of the subject's breath.

Temperature measurement via fluid injection device with plurality of operative modes

A plunger head for a fluid injection device includes a transducer disposed in the plunger head to measure a compressive force when applied to the plunger head. The plunger head also includes a power source and a microcontroller disposed in the plunger head. The microcontroller is coupled to the power source and the transducer, and the microcontroller is coupled to enter a high-power mode in response to sensing application of the compressive force to the plunger head.

Adaptive optical path with variable focal length

Methods and systems are disclosed relating to a lens system that allows for simultaneous focus of near and far-away images with one pair of glasses, heads-up-displays (HUDs), and the like, without the need to move the user's eyes. This lens system may be used in a HUD application, for example, where the user may focus on a display lens that may be approximately one inch from the eye to view computer-generated information such as altitude, temperature, directions, and the like, and simultaneously view the individual's surroundings. The lens system may include a liquid lens that when modulated may vary from a near-focus state to a far-focus state rapidly by using an electrowetting or piezoelectric hydraulic actuator. This variable rate lens may be multiplexed at a rate that allows both near and far-away images to appear in focus simultaneously through the advantageous use of a user's persistence of vision.

Air shot detection by ultrasonic sensors

Hardware to determine when a diaper needs to be changed and provide electronic notification

Pressure sensor in plunger head to wake up electronics

A plunger head for a fluid injection device includes a transducer disposed in the plunger head to measure a compressive force when applied to the plunger head. The plunger head also includes a power source and a microcontroller disposed in the plunger head. The microcontroller is coupled to the power source and the transducer, and the microcontroller is coupled to enter a high-power mode in response to sensing application of the compressive force to the plunger head.

Hardware to determine when a diaper needs to be changed and provide electronic notification

Inhaler devices for monitoring airflow

Introduced here are low-cost, disposable inhaler devices that monitor airflow. More specifically, an inhaler device (100) can include a robust airflow sensor (102) and a flow control valve that allows the inhaler device to provide feedback regarding inhalation effort during the administration of medication. The airflow sensor can be disposed within a primary flow channel (104) through which medication travels or a secondary flow channel through which only air travels. Feedback can be transmitted to a computing device (e.g., a mobile phone) in real time. Alternatively, feedback can be recorded to a local memory and then subsequently transmitted to the computing device. Some embodiments of the inhaler device also support a lung capacity check functionality (also referred to as a "spirometry functionality"). These features enable respiratory diseases to be treated more effectively at lower cost.

Drug cartridge with acoustic reflector

A drug cartridge to dispense an injectable fluid includes a drug cartridge body with an interior cavity, a neck region, and a bottom region. The neck region is opposite the bottom region and the interior cavity of the drug cartridge narrows in the neck region and is wider than most of the neck region in the bottom region. A transducer is coupled to emit sonic waves into the interior cavity towards the neck region, and the neck region is geometrically oriented to reflect the sonic waves back from the neck region towards the bottom region to be received by the transducer.

Field emission source for ion mobility spectrometry

In one aspect, a field emission source is disclosed herein. The field emission source may include a field emission layer having at least one structure configured to emit electrons, a spacer contacting the field emission layer, and a window layer contacting the spacer and positioned opposed the at least one structure. The window layer may be transparent to electrons. Moreover, the field emission layer, the spacer, and the window layer may form an airtight cavity. In some cases, the field emission source may be used in an ion mobility spectrometer (IMS) system.

Automated blood sampling device

Devices are provided to automatically access blood from beneath or within skin. These devices include an injector configured to drive a needle into the skin and subsequently to retract the needle from the skin. These devices additionally include a seal to which suction is applied. To drive the needle into the skin, the needle is first driven through the seal, creating at least one hole in the seal. The suction applied to the seal acts to draw blood from the puncture formed in the skin by the needle, through the at least one hole in the seal, and to a sensor, blood storage element, or other payload. These devices can be wearable and configured to automatically access blood from skin, for example, to access blood from the skin at one or more points in time while a wearer of a device is sleeping.

Device for measuring interpupillary distance in a head-mounted display unit

In certain embodiments, a head-mounted display may include one or more displays for displaying images. A left and right movable disk may be placed respectively between the left and right eyes of a user and the one or more displays. The user may wear the HMD, and may adjust the spacing between the left and right disks while viewing the computer-displayed image or images through holes in the plastic discs. For example, the HMD may display a stereo colored bulls eye pattern, of which the user can only see a portion because their vision is restricted to on-axis viewing by the discs. The computer may instruct the user to move the HMD disks until the user can only see the color in the center of the bulls eye. In certain embodiments, by performing the foregoing adjustment, the eye may be oriented on the proper optical axis to look through an optimal location of a lens.