• 专利附录
  • 专利说明
  • 权利要求
  • 类似技术
  • 同族专利
  • 引用文献
  • 法律状态
  • 优先权
    • 专利摘要:
    method for detecting a discharge of liquid in an absorbent article. the invention relates to a method for detecting a liquid discharge event in an absorbent article, wherein said absorbent article comprises a sensor adapted to generate an electrical output signal representative of a moisture degree of said absorbent article , wherein said electrical output signal is received by a processing unit. the method comprises the steps of providing reference data over time representative of a liquid discharge; acquisition of liquid discharge data over time in the form of said electrical output signal; analyzing said liquid discharge data over time in relation to said reference data over time by means of said processing unit; and detecting a liquid discharge event based on said analysis. the invention also relates to a system for detecting liquid discharge events in an absorbent article, the system comprising an absorbent article comprising a sensor arranged to generate an output signal representative of an electrical property, and a unit of processing adapted to process said said output signal generated by the sensor of the absorbent article. the processing unit is adapted to carry out the method according to the invention, and to detect a liquid discharge event in said absorbent article based on said method.
    公开号:BR112014015095B1
    申请号:R112014015095-8
    申请日:2011-12-23
    公开日:2020-09-15
    发明作者:Mattias Bosaeus；Allan Elfström；Fredrik Mellbin
    申请人:Essity Hygiene And Health Aktiebolag；
    IPC主号:
    专利说明:

    FIELD OF THE INVENTION
    [0001] In general, the invention relates to a method for detecting the discharge of liquid in an absorbent article. In addition, the invention relates to a system suitable for such a method. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
    [0002] Generally, methods for detecting wetting or liquid discharge events in an absorbent article are known in the art. In a conventional system, a sensor monitors the resistance between two conductors arranged in a diaper and compares the resistance values to a predetermined and fixed resistance limit value. If the resistance value is less than the resistance limit value, then the sensor sends a signal to an alarm device, which informs the caregiver and / or the user that the user has urinated.
    [0003] A problem with this system and that they may be prone to give false positives, which is to inform the caregiver and / or the user that there is urination present in the underwear, when there is not, because there is only one "check" or "test" to detect the presence of urination (for example, if the resistance of the undergarment falls below a fixed limit value). These false positives can depend on loose wiring, noise or disturbances from unknown sources. Furthermore, in certain situations, such as when the person wearing the diaper sits down or if another type of pressure is applied to the underwear that has been previously moistened, the resistance of the underwear may be less than the limit value, indicating, therefore, a new urination, when in fact a subsequent liquid discharge event did not occur. Consequently, a false positive will be detected.
    [0004] Conventionally, the number of false positive detections is reduced by choosing an upper limit value. However, a relatively high limit value increases the risk of not detecting small amounts of liquid discharge. Thus, conventional devices may be poorly adapted to accurately detect multiple urination and / or prevent the detection of false positives. In addition, sweat can saturate at least a little bit of underwear, typically over a relatively long period of time, and can trigger the sensor. On the other hand, after a first urination by the user, the resistance value of the underwear is substantially lower than when the product was dry. However, the limit value has not changed, and therefore the resistance may be less than the limit, thus triggering an alarm, even though a subsequent liquid discharge event has not occurred.
    [0005] For example, WO 2008/075227 discloses a method of detecting the presence of a liquid discharge from an absorbent article. In general, a method according to an embodiment of WO 2008/075227 for detecting the presence of a liquid discharge within an absorbent article comprises: monitoring an electrical property of the article while the article is being used by a user, in which the electrical properties change in response to a discharge of liquid; determine a slope in an electrical property parameter over time; and comparing the slope with a limit value to determine the presence of liquid discharge. According to other embodiments of WO 2008/075227, the following can also be determined for detecting a liquid discharge: a comparison of the electrical property over a period of time with a limit value; and / or a comparison of the electrical property with a certain limit value.
    [0006] However, there is still a need for improved methods that at least minimize the problems of detecting false positives in the prior art, allow the safe detection of multiple urination, and are less sensitive to disturbances, such as a short circuit of conductors. DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
    [0007] The present invention is based on the knowledge that by analyzing liquid discharge data over time in relation to reference data over time, the accuracy of a method for detecting liquid discharge events can be increased. Thus, the object of the present invention is to prevent or at least alleviate the problems mentioned above. According to one aspect of the invention, these objects are achieved by a method that has the characteristics as defined in the appended claims. Preferred embodiments of the method are defined in the attached dependent claims.
    [0008] A first aspect of the invention relates to a method for detecting a liquid discharge event in an absorbent article, wherein said absorbent article comprises a sensor adapted to generate an electrical output signal representative of a degree moisture content of said absorbent article, wherein said electrical output signal is received by a processing unit. The method comprises the steps of providing reference data representative of a liquid discharge event over time; the acquisition of liquid discharge data over time in the form of said electrical output signal; analyzing said liquid discharge data over time in relation to said reference data over time by means of said processing unit; and detecting a liquid discharge event based on said analysis.
    [0009] In this case, a degree of humidity is intended to mean any degree of humidity, as well as no humidity, that is, completely dry or another degree of dryness. The degree of humidity can alternatively be expressed as a state of humidity. In addition, the sensor can be of any suitable type of sensor that generates an electrical output representative of a state of humidity or the degree of humidity of the absorbent article. This sensor can be a sensor for measuring an electrical property, such as conductance, impedance, resistance, intake, voltage, current, etc., or an electrical property corresponding to temperature, humidity, pH or other suitable property. In addition, the sensor may comprise a semiconductor sensitive to moisture, or urine. The reference data over time can be a data set, or a mathematical model that describes a liquid discharge event, from which a data set over time can be derived. Such a data set can be plotted as a reference curve, if necessary or desired. The representative data of a liquid discharge event has different characteristics for different types of sensors. Since the reference data representative of a liquid discharge event has different characteristics for different types of sensors, the reference data needs to be determined for the sensor to be used during the process according to the invention. In addition, the analysis can comprise any method of analysis suitable for comparing liquid discharge, or moisture data, and reference data over time, or for assessing the difference between liquid discharge data, and reference data over time. For example, comparing the liquid discharge data to the reference data over time, in some way, or calculating a degree of correlation of the data set and the liquid discharge data. Another suitable method could be to adjust the curve of the liquid discharge data to find a mathematical function or curve that fits the data and then compare the fitted curve to a predetermined mathematical function describing the predetermined mathematical model for the liquid discharge or humidity event. In addition, other suitable methods could also be used to assess the degree of compliance or the degree of similarity between the liquid discharge data and the reference data.
    [0010] When analyzing the liquid discharge data over time in relation to the reference data over time, the method may take into account the variation of the data in relation to the reference data over time, instead just compare an instantaneous liquid discharge data value with a limit value. In other words, the difference between the characteristics over time of the reference data and liquid discharge data is compared, resulting in the most reliable liquid discharge detection. In addition, the method can take into account a non-linear relationship between the electrical signal from the sensor output and the moisture conditions and humidity level of the absorbent article.
    [0011] According to at least one embodiment, the reference data is predetermined. Here, predetermined is meant to mean that the data set or mathematical model is determined before the process of the present invention is applied. According to at least one embodiment, the reference data is based on a set of liquid discharge measurements carried out before applying the method of the invention, and preferably a statistically reliable set of measurements.
    [0012] According to at least one embodiment, the step of analyzing said liquid discharge data over time in relation to said reference data over time comprises the assessment of a degree of conformity of curves that represent said liquid discharge data and said reference data over time, respectively, and in which the step of detecting a liquid discharge event is based on said degree of compliance.
    [0013] Here, the degree of conformity is intended to mean degree of correspondence in the form between the respective curves, which represent the two sets of data, over time. Degree of compliance and degree of correlation can be assessed using any suitable method, such as visually comparing curves, especially their shapes, calculating a correlation coefficient, or other known mathematical methods. The degree of compliance can be compared to a predetermined degree of compliance, in which a liquid discharge is considered to have occurred when the degree of compliance is equal to or greater than the predetermined degree of compliance. The degree of compliance is properly analyzed regardless of the actual magnitude of the respective data. In the case of multiple liquid discharge events, the degree of compliance is assessed for each time period corresponding to a single liquid discharge event.
    [0014] According to at least one embodiment, the step of analyzing said liquid discharge data over time in relation to said reference data over time comprises the assessment of a degree of correlation of said data liquid discharge and said reference data over time, respectively, and in which the step of detecting a liquid discharge event is based on said degree of correlation.
    [0015] When evaluating a degree of correlation of said liquid discharge data and said reference data over time, the method may lead to the variation of the data over time in consideration, instead of comparing with a single value limit. Thus, a more reliable liquid discharge detection is obtained. The degree of correlation can be assessed using any suitable method, such as visually comparing curves representing the liquid discharge data, and the reference data, respectively, or by calculating the correlation coefficient or other known methods. The degree of correlation can be compared to a predetermined degree of correlation, in which the discharge of liquid is considered to have occurred when the degree of correlation is equal to, greater than, or less than the predetermined degree of correlation, depending on whether the correlation is positive or negative. In the case of a positive correlation, a discharge of liquid is considered to have occurred when the degree of correlation is equal to or greater than the predetermined degree of correlation. And in the case of negative correlation, a discharge of liquid is considered to have occurred when the degree of correlation is equal to or less than the predetermined degree of correlation. In the case of multiple liquid discharge events, the degree of correlation is calculated for each time period that corresponds to a single liquid discharge event.
    [0016] According to at least one embodiment example, the step of analyzing said liquid discharge data over time in relation to said reference data over time comprises calculating a product from one of said data discharge system and said reference data.
    [0017] According to at least one embodiment, the step of analyzing said liquid discharge data over time in relation to said reference data over time comprises calculating a convolution of said discharge data of liquid and said reference data. According to at least one embodiment, said convolution comprises said product.
    [0018] Here, a discreet form of convolution is appropriate. Such a convolution is advantageous, since it is relatively easy to implement and analyze. In addition, using convolution does not require complicated algorithms to transfer reference data over time for each single liquid discharge event. Alternatively, a cross correlation can be used instead of a convolution.
    [0019] According to at least one example of implementation, the step of analyzing said liquid discharge data over time in relation to said reference data over time comprises the comparison between the product value or the convolution of said data and said reference data with a first predetermined value in relation to a base level of said liquid discharge data, and said step of detecting a liquid discharge event is based on said comparison, in which the liquid discharge is considered to have occurred when the product or convolution deviates from said base level by at least said first predetermined value.
    [0020] The base level is intended to mean a level at which said electrical signal is stable before or after a liquid discharge event. That is, either a stable level before any liquid discharge event, or a level at which the signal has stabilized after a liquid discharge event. The deviation can be positive or negative, depending on whether the product or correlation is negative or positive. If the product or correlation is positive, a liquid discharge event is considered to have occurred when the product or convolution deviates positively from a base value with the first predetermined value. If the product or correlation is negative, a liquid discharge event is considered to have occurred when the product or convolution deviates negatively from a base value with the first predetermined value.
    [0021] According to at least one realization example, the step of analyzing said liquid discharge data over time in relation to said reference data over time comprises the calculation of a series of values of said product or convolution that is deviating from said later database level by said first predetermined value, where said number of subsequent data values is compared with a second predetermined value, and where a liquid discharge is considered to have occurred when said number of values in the subsequent data is greater than the second predetermined value.
    [0022] Here, subsequent is meant to mean absolutely subsequent. That is, the subsequent data points are a sequence of data points that are following each other in order. The second predetermined value can be the same or different from the first predetermined value, and is based on the set of liquid discharge measurements performed before applying the method of the invention.
    [0023] Such a comparison is advantageous, since it reduces the number of false liquid discharge events detected. In this way, the accuracy of the method is further increased.
    [0024] According to at least one embodiment example, the sensor comprises a plurality of detection zones for detecting liquid discharge, and in which each of said sensor zones is adapted to generate a corresponding representative electrical output signal to a degree of humidity in each respective zone.
    [0025] The plurality of detection zones may, alternatively, be in the form of a plurality of humidity sensing elements or humidity sensors forming the plurality of detection zones.
    [0026] According to at least one realization example, the step of acquiring liquid discharge data is performed separately for each detection zone.
    [0027] Obtaining the data separately for each detection zone is advantageous, since it allows disregarding data for a desired zone if they include any type of errors or inaccuracies.
    [0028] According to at least one example of implementation, the steps of analyzing the liquid discharge data and detecting a liquid discharge event are performed for the liquid discharge data composed of data for each detection zone, or by data from each detection zone separately.
    [0029] Here, compound is meant to mean that the liquid discharge data comprises the liquid discharge data for each liquid detection zone, for example, in the form of a sum of liquid discharge data for each zone detection or any other suitable mode. When performing the steps of analyzing liquid discharge data and detecting whether a liquid discharge event has occurred, such compound liquid discharge data allows for faster calculations, since fewer calculation steps need to be performed. In addition, less computational requirements are required and memory is required.
    [0030] According to at least one embodiment, the step of detecting a liquid discharge event further comprises a step of detecting at least one subsequent liquid discharge, based on said data acquired separately for each zone. detection, in which the said step of analyzing the liquid discharge data is applied to the total of data acquired over time, or to each part of the data acquired over time corresponding to a single liquid discharge.
    [0031] According to at least one example of embodiment, the method further comprises a step of repeatedly comparing a change in said electrical output signal representative of a degree of humidity between the two different times with a third predetermined value, before the step to analyze the liquid discharge data, in which the decision to carry out the step of analyzing the said liquid discharge data is based on that comparison.
    [0032] This comparison makes it possible to avoid processing unnecessary data. Therefore, less data capacity is required.
    [0033] According to at least one embodiment, the output signal is received by a first processing unit during the step of acquiring liquid discharge data in the form of said electrical output signal.
    [0034] According to at least one embodiment, the steps of analyzing said liquid discharge data, in relation to the reference data representative of a liquid discharge and the detection of a liquid discharge event based on the said analysis, are carried out by means of said first processing unit or by means of a second processing unit.
    [0035] Two processing units allow data processing at a remote location, which can be advantageous for several reasons. For example, a unit for the absorbent article may be smaller if it is not configured to process the data. In addition, it may be useful for a caregiver to be able to study the liquid discharge data remotely.
    [0036] According to at least one realization example, the electrical output signal is resistance, conductivity, impedance, voltage, admission, or current.
    [0037] A second aspect of the invention relates to a system for detecting a liquid discharge event in an absorbent article. The system comprises an absorbent article comprising a sensor arranged to generate an output signal representative of an electrical property, and a processing unit adapted to process said output signal generated by the sensor of the absorbent article. The processing unit is adapted to carry out the method according to the invention, and to detect a liquid discharge event within said absorbent article based on said method.
    [0038] Suitably, the system is adapted to indicate a liquid discharge event.
    [0039] According to at least one example of embodiment, the system further comprises a display unit, which is connected or connectable to said processing unit and arranged to show the result of the method according to the invention.
    [0040] According to at least one example of embodiment, the system further comprises an alarm unit, adapted to generate an alarm signal from the detection of when the liquid discharge event is detected.
    [0041] The advantages of the system are similar to the advantages of the method, which are described above.
    [0042] Generally, all terms used in the claims must be interpreted according to their usual meaning in the technical field, unless expressly defined was otherwise in this document. All references to "an element, device, component, means, stage, etc." should be interpreted as referring broadly to at least one example of said element, device, component, means, stage, etc., unless explicitly stated otherwise.
    [0043] Other objectives, characteristics and advantages of the present invention will appear from the detailed description below, from the attached dependent claims, as well as from the drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
    [0044] This and other aspects of the present invention will now be described in greater detail, with reference to the accompanying drawings showing variant (s) of the invention, in which: - Figure 1 is a schematic view of a method according to at least at least a first example of embodiment of the present invention; - Figure 2 shows a graph of a set of typical reference data defined over time; - Figure 3 illustrates the liquid discharge data for a zone and typical reference data defined over time; Figure 4 illustrates the liquid discharge data for a plurality of detection zones of the absorbent article and the liquid discharges detected by at least one embodiment of the invention; Figure 5 illustrates a system for detecting liquid discharge in an absorbent article according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention; and - Figure 6 schematically illustrates an absorbent article suitable for the method and system according to the invention.
    [0045] All Figures are highly schematic, not necessarily to scale, and they show only parts that are necessary in order to elucidate the invention, other parts being omitted or just suggested. DESCRIPTION OF ACCOMPLISHMENTS OF THE INVENTION
    [0046] The invention will now be described, by way of example, in greater detail by way of embodiments and with reference to the accompanying drawings. Words here as top, bottom, bottom, top, etc., are intended to have their common meaning in a vertical direction, when an absorbent article according to the invention is in use. Thus, an upper portion is a portion that is closer to a user than a lower portion. In addition, the front and rear portions of the absorbent article are intended to mean portions that are in the front and rear, respectively, in relation to the user, when the absorbent article is being used.
    [0047] An example of an embodiment of the method for detecting a liquid discharge event in an absorbent article according to the invention is illustrated in Figure 1. In Figure 6 the absorbent article is in the form of a product for incontinent adults, or a diaper. The principles of the present invention are, however, applicable to other absorbent articles, such as baby or toddler diapers, intimate pads or other known absorbent articles. The absorbent article (1) comprises a sensor adapted to generate an electrical output signal representative of a degree of humidity or a moisture state of said absorbent article, wherein said electrical output signal is received by a processing unit.
    [0048] The method comprises the steps of: - Providing (100) predetermined reference data over time representative of a liquid discharge event; - Acquire (200) liquid discharge data over time, in the form of said electrical signal; - Analyze (300) said liquid discharge data over time in relation to the reference data over time, representative of a liquid discharge, by means of said processing unit; and - Detection (400) of liquid discharge based on said analysis.
    [0049] Suitably, the electrical output signal is resistance, conductivity, impedance, voltage, intake, inductance, capacitance, or current. The predetermined reference data are based on a set of pre-performed liquid discharge measurements, that is, performed before applying the method to an absorbent article (1). Suitably, the number of pre-performed measurements is such that the set of measurements is statistically reliable. During pre-performed measurements, the liquid is repeatedly discharged into absorbent articles (1) and data are collected. After that, the data is analyzed to find a set of data over time, which describe a typical liquid discharge. Suitably, the reference data is in the form of a set of discrete data values over time, and can be represented as a reference curve. A typical set of reference data is illustrated by the reference curve in Figure 2, which is described in more detail below. Alternatively, a curve fitted to the reference data can describe a typical liquid discharge event. Such a curve can be mathematically described by a function, that is, a mathematical model that describes a liquid discharge event.
    [0050] During the step (200) of acquiring liquid discharge data in the form of said electrical output signal, the output signal is received by a first processing unit (19), and the steps of analyzing said data liquid discharge in relation to the reference data representative of a liquid discharge event and detecting a liquid discharge event based on said analysis are carried out by means of a second processing unit (17). Alternatively, the steps (300) of analyzing said liquid discharge data in relation to the reference data representative of a liquid discharge event, and the detection of a liquid discharge event based on said analysis are also performed by through the first processing unit (19).
    [0051] The method may also comprise a step of indicating that a liquid discharge event has occurred. This indication can be in the form of an alarm, by a note in a report, on a display device, or in another suitable way.
    [0052] In the exemplary embodiment in Figure 1, the step (300) of analyzing liquid discharge data by assessing the conformity of the liquid discharge curve data and the reference data, respectively, comprises the calculation of a convolution said liquid discharge data and said reference data. Since the liquid discharge data is in the form of discrete values, a discrete form of convolution is appropriate. In addition, the discrete form of convolution is advantageous, since the discrete form requires less complex analog electronics.
    [0053] Generally, the convolution of two functions during a finite interval [0, T] is given by:
    [0054] The discrete convolution is given by a sum instead of an integral:
    [0055] The resulting discrete convolution is a discrete series, with characteristic peaks at the times when the liquid was discharged, see Figure 4. Subsequently, the convolution is compared with a limit value. If the convolution exceeds the limit value, which is an example of a deviation from a predetermined value in relation to a base level according to the claims, a liquid discharge is considered to have occurred and, consequently, an event of liquid discharge is detected. If, instead, the integral continuous form of convolution is used, convolution is the result of a continuous function with peaks at the times when a liquid discharge event occurred and the liquid discharge is detected in a similar way to the event with the discreet convolution.
    [0056] When using a convolution, the shape of the curve over time representing the liquid discharge data is compared with the shape of the curve representing the predetermined reference data, resulting in the amount of overlap of the two curves, or data sets. As a result, a certain degree of similarity is calculated over time between the liquid discharge and the predetermined reference data. For discrete convolution, the degree of similarity is a degree of compliance of the data sets plotted as curves. Since convolution implies that data representative of a liquid discharge event is offset from the measured liquid discharge data, convolution can handle an arbitrary number of liquid discharge events, without any additional measures for various events. of liquid discharge. Such additional measures could manually, or by means of an algorithm, shift the reference data repeatedly so that the corresponding portions of liquid discharge data for each individual liquid discharge event can be compared with the reference data.
    [0057] If the sensor used to perform the method according to the invention comprises a plurality of detection zones for detecting liquid discharge, each of the sensor zones is adapted to generate a representative electrical output signal corresponding to a level of humidity or to a state of humidity for each respective zone. In such a case, the liquid discharge data acquisition step is properly performed separately for each detection zone. The liquid discharge data from each of the detection zones can be analyzed as liquid discharge data composed of data for each detection zone, appropriately as a total sum of each of the zones, or separately. Therefore, also the step of detecting a liquid discharge event is made for these total liquid discharge data composed of liquid discharge data for each detection zone. Alternatively, the data can be acquired as a sum of all detection zones together. Alternatively, the steps of analyzing the liquid discharge data and detecting a liquid discharge event are performed for data consisting of data for each detection zone, or data for each detection zone separately. Alternatively, if advantageous, the composite data can be in any other suitable form, such as the total sum of data for each detection zone.
    [0058] The method of the invention also comprises a detection step (400) (see Figure 1) of at least one subsequent liquid discharge event, if or when present, based on said separately acquired data for each detection zone , in which the aforementioned steps of analyzing liquid discharge data and detecting a liquid discharge event are applied to the set of data obtained over time. Alternatively, the steps of analyzing liquid discharge data and detecting a liquid discharge event can be performed for each part of the acquired data over time corresponding to a single liquid discharge.
    [0059] Suitably, the method comprises a step of repeatedly comparing a change in the said electrical output signal representative of a degree of humidity between two different times with a predetermined threshold value, before the step of analyzing the liquid discharge data, to decide whether the steps of analyzing the liquid discharge data and detecting the liquid discharge event should be performed. If the electrical output signal decreases when the humidity of the absorbent article increases, the analysis step is performed when the electrical output signal decreases to the predetermined limit value. On the other hand, if the electrical output signal increases when the humidity of the absorbent article increases, the analysis step is performed when the electrical output signal increases to the predetermined limit value. Such a comparison before analyzing the data is advantageous, since it reduces the analysis of unnecessary data, and decreases the required performance of the processor unit.
    [0060] Figure 2 illustrates a graph of a typical set of predetermined reference data over time. Generally, if a discharge of liquid occurs, the electrical properties measured change. If the measured electrical property is the voltage, the lower the measured voltage, the drier the absorbent core (4) is, see Figure 6. In the case illustrated in Figure 2, the electrical property increases when the liquid discharge is received by the first time in a zone (9), between two adjacent conductive paths (10) and, later, it stabilizes. The electrical property used in the exemplary embodiment is a quotient between a reference resistance and the measured resistance of the absorbent article (1), and, therefore, the drawn and dimensionless electrical property. For other electrical properties, the property, in contrast, can decrease to an abyss or valley, and, later, it stabilizes. Other sensors can still result in reference data with yet other characteristics. Subsequent liquid discharge events give rise to subsequent spikes or depressions, depending on the electrical property chosen.
    [0061] Figure 3 illustrates the liquid discharge data for a diaper zone (1) and a typical reference data set over time. The continuous line corresponds to the sensor data, while the dashed line corresponds to the reference data. It is evident that the shapes of the curves are similar, and therefore the degree of conformity of the curves is high, indicating a liquid discharge event.
    [0062] Figure 4 illustrates the liquid discharge data for a plurality of detection zones (9) of the absorbent article and liquid discharge events detected by at least one embodiment of the invention. The continuous line corresponds to the sensor data, while the dashed line corresponds to the convolution of the sensor data and the reference data. The sensor data comprises a sum of all zones (9). The convolution peaks of the sensor data and the reference data indicate the moments when a liquid discharge event occurred. In Figure 4, a first liquid discharge event occurred shortly after t = 9000, a second liquid discharge event occurred almost at t = 12000, a third liquid discharge event occurred almost at t = 16000, and finally a fourth event liquid discharge occurred shortly after t = 16000. The second, third, and fourth liquid discharge events may have been detected by the same zone (9), as the first liquid discharge event, or by another zone (9) or zones (9). It is clear that the peaks of the convolution of the sensor data and the reference data coincide with each increase in electrical property of the sensor data, indicative of a liquid discharge event.
    [0063] To further increase the accuracy of method detection, the number of subsequent data points that exceed the limit value can be calculated. Alternatively, if the measured electrical property is negative or if, for some reason, the convolution of the measured liquid discharge data and the reference data is negative, the limit values will also be negative. In such a case, a value that is less than the negative limit value indicates that a liquid discharge event has occurred, or, alternatively, the absolute value of the electrical property can be compared to a positive limit value as described above.
    [0064] Instead of analyzing the data using a convolution as described above, a cross correlation can be used. In such a case, the method is, in other respects, similar to the method described above. Alternatively, other methods of analysis suitable for assessing the difference between liquid discharge data and reference data over time can be used within the scope of the claims. The difference can be assessed by calculating the actual difference at each data point and based on this calculation a total difference. Such a total difference can then be compared with a total limit difference value for detecting a liquid discharge event based on said comparison. Alternatively, the difference can be calculated by comparing the liquid discharge data with the predetermined reference data over time, in some way; calculating a degree of correlation of the predetermined data set and the liquid discharge data; fitting the curve of the liquid discharge data and comparing the fitted curve to a predetermined mathematical function describing the predetermined mathematical model for a wetting event; or other suitable methods to assess the degree of compliance or degree of similarity between the liquid discharge data and the predetermined reference data. In such a case, the step of detecting a liquid discharge event is based on said degree of compliance or degree of similarity. Degree of compliance is intended to mean degree of correspondence in the shape between the respective curves that represent the two sets of data, over time. The degree of compliance and the degree of correlation can be assessed using any suitable method, such as visually comparing the curves, in particular the shape of the curves, calculating a correlation coefficient or other known mathematical methods. From Figure 3, it is evident that the shapes of the curves are similar. Thus, the degree of compliance of the curves is high, indicating a liquid discharge event. The degree of compliance can be compared to a predetermined degree of compliance, in which a discharge of liquid is considered to have occurred when the degree of compliance is equal to or greater than the predetermined degree of compliance. The degree of compliance is properly analyzed regardless of the actual magnitude of the respective data. In the case of multiple liquid discharge events, the degree of compliance is assessed for each time period corresponding to a single liquid discharge event.
    [0065] Alternatively, the step of analyzing said liquid discharge data over time in relation to said reference data comprises assessing a degree of correlation of said liquid discharge data and said reference data over time , respectively. In such a case, the step of detecting a liquid discharge event is based on the said degree of correlation. The degree of correlation can be assessed using any suitable method, such as visually comparing the curves representing the liquid discharge data, and the reference data, respectively, or calculating the correlation coefficient or other known methods. The degree of correlation can be compared to a predetermined degree of correlation, in which the discharge of liquid is considered to have occurred when the degree of correlation is equal to, greater than, or less than the predetermined degree of correlation, depending on whether the correlation is positive or negative. In the case of a positive correlation, a liquid discharge is considered to have occurred when the degree of correlation is equal to or greater than the predetermined degree of correlation. And in the case of negative correlation, a discharge of liquid is considered to have occurred when the degree of correlation is equal to or less than the predetermined degree of correlation. In the case of multiple liquid discharge events, the degree of correlation is calculated for each time period that corresponds to a single liquid discharge event. The system
    [0066] In Figure 5 there is illustrated a system for detecting discharge of liquid in an absorbent article according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention. The system comprises an absorbent article (1) comprising a sensor (8) being arranged to generate an output signal representative of an electrical property, and a processing unit (19).
    [0067] In addition, the exemplary embodiment of the system in Figure 5 comprises a control unit. The control unit (18) includes contacts for coupling with contacts (14) on the protruding tape tab of the absorbent article (1). The control unit (18) includes a memory card to provide disk memory, a memory buffer, a measurement circuit to measure an electrical property, a clock, a battery, a wireless transmitter, and a processor, which is an example of a processing unit (19) according to the claims. The battery is used for the power operation of all components of the control unit (18).
    [0068] The measuring circuit is configured to regularly apply a potential between the adjacent pairs of the conductive paths (10) of the absorbent article (1) and measure or indicate the impedance between them.
    [0069] The processor (19) of the control unit (18) can be configured to receive the measurement data from the measurement circuit and store it in the buffer until a sequence of a measurement data set for all pairs are stored in the buffer. The processor is further configured to store a reading clock with each set of measurement data. The storage of this data set is repeated regularly (for example, every second). The processor is configured to compare the difference between the two adjacent data points during data storage, with a predetermined value. If the difference deviates from the predetermined value in relation to a base level, the processor is configured to transfer data from the buffer memory to a remote memory unit, such as a central computer type disk memory. , for remote data logging. Alternatively, the data can be recorded on a memory card, which is removable so that the stored data can be accessed by analysis software located remotely. Alternatively, the stored data can be accessed via a cable, a USC connection or similar. In such cases, other hard memory practices than a memory card can be used.
    [0070] The second processing unit (17), which is an example of another processing unit (17) according to the claims, is conveniently located in some type of central computer and comprises software to run at least part of the method according to the invention. The second processing unit (17) is used to process the stored data in a useful way to perform the analysis and detection steps of the method described above. A receiver arranged in the central computer is used to retrieve the data transmitted by the transmitter of the control unit (18). Then the data is transmitted to the second processing unit (17). Suitably, the second processing unit (17) receives the liquid discharge data for each of the detection zones (9) of the memory and executes them through a filter to smooth the data in order to show clear increases when a liquid discharge event has occurred and to smooth out any noise attribute in the data. Thereafter, the software of the second processing unit (17) will perform the steps of analyzing and detecting the method of the invention described above.
    [0071] Instead of being integrated into a central computer, the second processing unit (17) can be integrated into a cell phone, a type of handheld computer, etc. Alternatively, instead of having the two units, a processing unit (19) integrated in the control unit (18) and a second remote processing unit (17) integrated in the central computer, the system can comprise only the single unit process (19) integrated in the control unit (18). In such a case, the single processing unit (19) of the control unit (18) is adapted for data acquisition and processing. In such a case, the alarm unit is also integrated into the control unit (18).
    [0072] In addition, the exemplary embodiment in Figure 5 comprises a display unit (21), which is connected or connectable to the processing unit (17) and arranged to present the result of the inventive method, such as data from liquid discharge in conveniently readable form or merely convolution the liquid discharge data and the reference data. For example, the data can be in the form of a graph of electrical property, such as voltage, with a different line style, (for example, color, dots, etc.) for each of the various zones, so that the degree of humidity in each zone and its evolution over time can be seen by a user of the analysis software.
    [0073] In addition, the system may include an alarm unit (22), adapted to generate an alarm signal from the detection of a liquid discharge event. The alarm unit (22) is properly arranged on the central computer.
    [0074] Alternatively, the liquid discharge data over time can be presented to a user in some way (for example, a graph that has a sufficient time resolution), along with the reference data, in such a way that the user can visually compare the two graphs of the respective data for the detection of each individual liquid discharge.
    [0075] Figure 6 illustrates an absorbent article (1) suitable for a method for detecting liquid discharge according to the present invention. Generally, the absorbent article (1) comprises a topsheet (2), a backsheet (3) and an absorbent core (4) disposed between them. In use, the top sheet (2) faces the user's groin portion and the back sheet (3) is on the opposite side of the absorbent core (4). In a longitudinal direction, the absorbent article (1) generally comprises a front part, a rear part and a hook portion disposed between them. In Figure 1 the absorbent article is shown in the form of a diaper for incontinent adults (1). The diaper (1), which is illustrated in Figure 6, is an example of a conventional diaper, except for the presence of a humidity sensor (8), which preferably comprises a plurality of liquid discharge detection zones (9 ) (in this specific example, there are five liquid discharge detection zones (9)). The humidity sensor (8) is adapted to generate an electrical output signal representative of a state of humidity or degree of humidity in the absorbent core (4) of the diaper (1).
    [0076] In the exemplary diaper (1) in Figure 6, each detection zone (9) comprises first and second electrically conductive paths (10) (in the form of electrically conductive wires, or other electrically conductive material) which are each , aligned with the lateral axis (11) of the absorbent article (1) and are spaced longitudinally from each other along the longitudinal axis (12) of the absorbent article (1). The conductive paths (10) are in physical and electrical contact with the absorbent core (4). The end detection zones (9) share a conductive path (10) with an adjacent zone, while the central detection zones (9) share both conductive paths (10) with their adjacent detection zones (9).
    [0077] In addition, the absorbent article (1) includes a contact area (13) of the control unit, to which a control unit (not shown) is connected in order to activate each of the detection zones (9) to obtain a liquid discharge reading. The contact area (13) is located in the frontal region of the laterally central waist of the absorbent article (1). The contact area (13) includes a plurality of electrical contacts (14) for making electrical contact with the corresponding contacts on the control unit. Each conductive path (10) is connected to a respective electrical contact (14) by means of a respective electrically conductive connection (16). The combination of a given contact (14), a connection (16) and a conductive circuit (10) is formed of a unitary structure (a conductive wire) in at least one exemplary embodiment, as will be explained later. The connections (16) extend along the shortest path from the conductive path (10) to the corresponding contact (14).
    [0078] The conductive path (10) can be distinguished from the connections (16), because the conductive path (10) is in direct physical and electrical contact with the absorbent core (4), while the connections (16) are not, so that they can be electrically isolated from the absorbent core (4). More specifically, the conductive paths (10) are on the side of the absorbent core of the backsheet and in electrical and physical contact with the absorbent core (4). The connections (16) are located on the other side of the backsheet, so that the backsheet provides electrical insulation between the absorbent core (4) and the connections (16). Each of the connections (16) passes through the backsheet at the points (20). One end of each conductive path (10) ends without a return path to the contact area (13). Thus, a return path can only be established by passing current from a contact (14) through a connection (16) and a conductive circuit (10), and returning through an adjacent conductive path (10) and its connection (16) by passing current through a space between the adjacent conductive paths (10), as a result of the absorbent core (4) becoming wet in the space.
    [0079] In an exemplary embodiment, each corresponding contact (14), connection (16) and conducting path (10) is made of a single wire that has been coated with electrically conductive material (for example, metal, carbon, or conducting polymers ).
    [0080] The scope of the invention according to the claims is not limited to the diaper (1) described above or the humidity sensor (3) described above. The principles of the present invention are, however, applicable to other absorbent articles, such as baby or toddler diapers, intimate pads or other known absorbent articles. In addition, the principles of the present invention are applicable to other suitable moisture sensors (8) comprising a detection zone (9), or also a plurality of detection zones (9). For example, conductive paths (10) can, instead. Be implemented by electrically conductive ink printed on the absorbent article (1), or on a support integrated with the article. Alternatively, instead of an absorbent article comprising a moisture sensor (8), comprising a plurality of detection zones (9), an absorbent article (1) comprising a plurality of sensors or sensor elements could be used. In such a case, each sensor corresponds to the detection zone (9) described above, and the plurality of detection zones (9) can be considered to be formed by a plurality of sensors or sensor elements. In addition, liquid discharge data is analyzed as described above for the sensor comprising a plurality of detection zones. Alternatively, the absorbent article (1) may comprise a combination of a plurality of detectors or sensors (or sensor elements), with a plurality of detection zones.
    [0081] To use the system described above, a user takes an absorbent article that has detection zones (9) for liquid discharge, suitably from a diaper (1) as shown in Figure 6. The control unit ( 18) is connected to a front region of the waist of the absorbent article (1), so that the control unit (18) is connected to the contact area of the control unit (13) of the absorbent article (1). The absorbent article is seated on a user so that the control unit (18) is able to acquire data related to liquid discharge events, at any given time.
    [0082] When the control unit and the absorbent article are brought into contact, as described above, the measurement circuit begins collecting data. Thus, the measurement circuit of the control unit (18) will apply for a short duration (less than a tenth of a second), an electrical potential between the first and the second conductive paths (10) of one of the discharge detection zones liquid (9) and repeat the operation for each of the liquid discharge detection zones (9), in turn. The electrical potential can be alternating current or direct current. The electrical property between the first and the second conductive paths (10) in each of the detection zones (9) is measured and stored in the buffer memory. This process is repeated until a difference between two adjacent data points exceeds a predetermined threshold value, that is, it deviates from a base level of a predetermined value, as explained above. At this point, the data is transferred to a distant memory on a central computer. After that, data can be collected and continuously transmitted wirelessly to memory in real time. Thereafter, the data collection process continues for the lifetime of the control unit (18) and the absorbent article.
    [0083] If the user urinates or if another type of liquid is discharged, the current can flow between the first and second conductive paths (10) of the liquid discharge detection zone (9) in which the urination or liquid discharge initially occurs. This will cause a change in the electrical property, that is, for example, in the impedance of the core (4), which can be detected. Consequently, the control unit (18) is capable of detecting and recording a change in an electrical property, such as impedance, resistance, conductance, voltage, admission, inductance, capacitance, etc. As the urine spreads through the liquid discharge detection zones (9), the change in electrical property in the other detection zones (9) can be felt, that is, detected and recorded. If some of the detection zones (9) are saturated, and there is a second urination event, the detection zones (9) that have not yet been activated or saturated will provide a change in the electrical properties in the output signal of those said detection zones ( 9), which will thus allow the processing unit's analysis software to detect a subsequent liquid discharge event. When the data is obtained and recorded, the processing unit software (17) will perform the method described above for detecting liquid discharge.
    [0084] Although the invention has been described with reference to specific exemplary embodiments thereof, many different changes, modifications and the like will be apparent to those skilled in the art. For example, in addition, variations of the described embodiments can be understood and carried out by those skilled in the art in the practice of the claimed invention, from a study of the drawings, the report, and the attached claims. In the claims, the word "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, and the indefinite article "one" or "one" does not exclude a plurality. A single unit can perform the functions of several items mentioned in the claims. The mere fact that certain measures are recited in the mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used to advantage.
    权利要求:
    Claims (16)
    [0001]
    1. Method for detecting a liquid discharge event in an absorbent article (1), characterized by the said absorbent article (1) comprises a sensor (8) adapted to generate an electrical output signal representative of the degree of humidity of the said absorbent article (1), wherein said electrical output signal is received by a processing unit (17), said method comprising the steps of: - providing (100) reference data from a sensor output collection over a period of time, in which the reference data obtained comprises an output sensor component and a time component, and in which the reference data are representative of a liquid discharge event; - acquiring liquid discharge data (200) over a period of time, in which the acquired liquid discharge data comprises an output sensor component and a time component, and in which the output sensor component is an electrical output signal; - analyzing (300) said liquid discharge data over time in relation to said reference data over time by means of said processing unit (17), to determine variations in the acquired liquid discharge data, in in relation to the reference data, in which the analysis comprises the convolution of said liquid discharge data with said reference data; and - detecting (400) a liquid discharge event based on said analysis.
    [0002]
    Method according to claim 1, characterized by said reference data over time, based on a set of liquid discharge measurements carried out before applying the method.
    [0003]
    Method according to claim 1, characterized by the step of analyzing (300) said liquid discharge data over time in relation to said reference data over time, comprising calculating a product from one of said data discharge and said reference data.
    [0004]
    Method according to claim 3, characterized by the step of analyzing (300) said liquid discharge data over time in relation to said reference data over time comprises the comparison between the value of the product or the convolution of data from said liquid discharge and said reference data with a first predetermined value in relation to a base level of said liquid discharge data, and said step of detecting (400) a liquid discharge event is based on said comparison, in which a liquid discharge event is considered to have occurred when the product or convolution is deviating from said base level by at least said first predetermined value.
    [0005]
    Method according to claim 3, characterized by the step of analyzing (300) said data in relation to said reference data comprises calculating a series of subsequent data values of said product or convolution that are deviating from said level of based on said first predetermined value, in which said number of values in the subsequent data is compared with a second predetermined value, and in which said step of detecting (400) a liquid discharge event is based on said comparison, in which a liquid discharge event is considered to have occurred when said number of subsequent data values is greater than the second predetermined value.
    [0006]
    Method according to claim 1, characterized in that the sensor (8) comprises a plurality of detection zones (9), wherein said sensor (8) is adapted to generate, for each detection zone (9), a electrical output signal representing a degree of humidity corresponding to said detection zone (9).
    [0007]
    7. Method according to claim 6, characterized by the fact that said step of acquiring (200) liquid discharge data is carried out separately for each detection zone (9).
    [0008]
    8. Method according to claim 7, characterized by the fact that said steps of analyzing liquid discharge data (300) and detecting (400) a liquid discharge event are performed for the liquid discharge data composed of data discharge liquid for each detection zone, or for liquid discharge data for each detection zone (9) separately.
    [0009]
    Method according to claim 7, characterized by the step of detecting (400) a liquid discharge event further comprising a step of detecting (400) at least one subsequent liquid discharge event, based on said data acquired in separate for each detection zone (9), in which said step of analyzing (300) the liquid discharge data is applied to the total data acquired over time, or to each part of the data acquired over time corresponding to a single liquid discharge event.
    [0010]
    10. Method according to claim 1, characterized in that it further comprises a step of repeatedly comparing a change in said electrical output signal representing a degree of humidity between two different times with a third predetermined value, before the analysis step of liquid discharge data, in which the decision to carry out the step of analyzing (300) said liquid discharge data is based on the said comparison.
    [0011]
    Method according to claim 1, characterized in that the output signal is received by said processing unit (19) during the acquisition step (200) of liquid discharge data, in the form of said electrical output signal.
    [0012]
    Method according to claim 1, characterized by the step of analyzing (300) said liquid discharge data in relation to the representative reference data of a liquid discharge; and the step of detecting (400) a liquid discharge event based on said analysis, be carried out by means of said processing unit (19) or by means of another processing unit (17).
    [0013]
    13. Method according to claim 1, characterized in that the electrical output signal is resistance, conductance, impedance, voltage, admission, or current.
    [0014]
    14. System for detecting a liquid discharge event in an absorbent article, characterized by comprising: - an absorbent article (1) comprising a sensor (8) being arranged to generate an output signal representative of an electrical property, and - a processing unit (17) adapted to process said output signal generated by the sensor of the absorbent article (1), wherein said processing unit (17) is adapted to carry out the method according to any one of claims 1 to 18, and detecting a liquid discharge event in said absorbent article (1) based on said method.
    [0015]
    System according to claim 13, characterized in that it further comprises a display unit (21), which is connected or is connectable to said processing unit and arranged to show the result of the method as defined in claims 1 to 13 .
    [0016]
    System according to claim 14, characterized in that it further comprises an alarm unit (22), adapted to generate an alarm signal from the detection, when the liquid discharge event is detected.
    类似技术:
    公开号 | 公开日 | 专利标题
    BR112014015095B1|2020-09-15|METHOD FOR DETECTING A DISCHARGE OF LIQUID IN AN ABSORBENT ITEM
    CN103269668B|2017-10-24|Instrument, the absorbent commodity suitable for liquid emission Data Collection and the control unit with the absorbent commodity interaction for collecting liquid emission data for analyzing the liquid emission data in absorbent commodity
    RU2589478C2|2016-07-10|Absorbent product containing sensor for liquid emissions
    EP2885636B1|2018-02-14|Methods and systems for measuring oxidation-reduction potential of a biological sample
    EP2654647B1|2015-02-11|Absorbent article comprising a liquid discharge detection sensor
    JP6929577B2|2021-09-01|Electrode arrays for biological monitoring and equipment containing or utilizing the same
    JP2020533151A5|2021-08-26|
    US9072483B2|2015-07-07|Touch screen medical diagnostic device and methods
    Zaffaroni et al.2017|Non-contact estimation of sleep staging
    AU2017245396A1|2017-11-02|Method and system for monitoring excrement data
    JP6395762B2|2018-09-26|Method for detecting liquid discharge to an absorbent article
    US20160314263A1|2016-10-27|Method and system for monitoring excrement data
    US20180318147A1|2018-11-08|Method for detecting infant's urination
    CN201734699U|2011-02-09|Fast electronic clinical thermometer for forehead measurement
    CN213843542U|2021-07-30|Intelligent closestool and detection device based on capacitance induction
    CN208610825U|2019-03-19|A kind of hemomanometer with finger temperature detector brake
    KR102269745B1|2021-06-28|How to Measure Your Body's Water Deprivation
    Sankari et al.2019|Non-Invasive Diabetes Diagnosis with Pancreas Bio-Magnetism.
    CN113974582A|2022-01-28|Intelligent human body bedridden state monitoring system and monitoring method
    同族专利:
    公开号 | 公开日
    CA2860010A1|2013-06-27|
    RU2014130216A|2016-02-10|
    CN104010606B|2016-11-09|
    BR112014015095A8|2020-07-28|
    CN104010606A|2014-08-27|
    EP2793782A1|2014-10-29|
    WO2013091728A1|2013-06-27|
    US9585795B2|2017-03-07|
    AU2011384251B2|2015-07-16|
    RU2577717C2|2016-03-20|
    AU2011384251A1|2014-07-24|
    MX2014007330A|2014-09-01|
    JP2015508491A|2015-03-19|
    BR112014015095A2|2018-05-22|
    CA2860010C|2017-09-05|
    US20140350503A1|2014-11-27|
    MX350231B|2017-08-30|
    EP2793782B1|2021-01-20|
    JP5993030B2|2016-09-14|
    引用文献:
    公开号 | 申请日 | 公开日 | 申请人 | 专利标题
    US4940464A|1987-12-16|1990-07-10|Kimberly-Clark Corporation|Disposable incontinence garment or training pant|
    JP3334234B2|1993-04-15|2002-10-15|株式会社デンソー|Diaper change sensor|
    WO1996014813A1|1993-05-28|1996-05-23|C & M Investment Nominees Pty. Ltd.|Incontinence management system|
    JP3063879B2|1993-08-30|2000-07-12|東京瓦斯株式会社|Noise suppression method for damage monitoring system of buried pipe|
    US6160198A|1998-06-29|2000-12-12|The Procter & Gamble Company|Disposable article having a discontinuous responsive system|
    US7250547B1|2000-11-07|2007-07-31|Rf Technologies, Inc.|Wetness monitoring system|
    JP2003090795A|2001-09-18|2003-03-28|Masahiro Kitada|Environment evaluation apparatus|
    US6916968B2|2001-09-25|2005-07-12|Sysmore, Inc.|Urine detection system and method|
    EP1551343A2|2002-09-23|2005-07-13|Sysmore, Inc.|System and method for assessing fluid distribution|
    WO2004100763A2|2003-04-30|2004-11-25|Daniel Collette|Diaper wetness monitoring system|
    US20050156744A1|2003-09-02|2005-07-21|Pires Harold G.|Diaper wetness annunciator system|
    US7977529B2|2004-11-03|2011-07-12|Fred Bergman Healthcare Pty Ltd.|Incontinence management system and diaper|
    WO2006047815A1|2004-11-03|2006-05-11|Fred Bergman Healthcare Pty. Ltd|Incontinence management system and diaper|
    JP2006296566A|2005-04-18|2006-11-02|Ishikawa Pref Gov|Diaper and excretion detecting device|
    US7642396B2|2005-08-31|2010-01-05|Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.|Method and device for detecting the presence of multiple insults in an absorbent article|
    CN101472543B|2006-05-02|2013-06-12|佛瑞德伯格曼保健有限公司|Moisture monitoring system|
    US8057454B2|2006-08-25|2011-11-15|Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.|Systems and methods for hydration sensing and monitoring|
    US8299317B2|2007-03-29|2012-10-30|Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.|Absorbent articles with external access to internal conductors|
    JP5452902B2|2008-01-21|2014-03-26|スリーエムイノベイティブプロパティズカンパニー|Liquid leakage detection system and liquid leakage detection method|
    US8866624B2|2008-12-31|2014-10-21|Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.|Conductor-less detection system for an absorbent article|
    WO2011013802A1|2009-07-31|2011-02-03|国立大学法人九州大学|Nondestructive testing method and device|
    EP2496197B1|2009-11-06|2015-08-26|Fred Bergman Healthcare Pty Ltd|System for incontinence monitoring and assessment|
    AU2011202419B2|2010-05-25|2015-01-22|Fred Bergman Healthcare Pty Ltd|A system for managing patient assessment|
    US9224102B2|2010-06-16|2015-12-29|Fred Bergman Healthcare Pty. Ltd.|Apparatus and method for analysing events from sensor data by optimisation|
    US8933293B2|2011-12-14|2015-01-13|Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.|Graphics performance in different absorbent article constructions|US10271998B2|2011-06-03|2019-04-30|The Procter & Gamble Company|Sensor systems comprising anti-choking features|
    DK178086B1|2013-07-12|2015-05-11|Suma Care Aps|System for measuring the amount of urine and faeces in a diaper|
    WO2015021243A1|2013-08-08|2015-02-12|The Procter & Gamble Company|Sensor systems for absorbent articles comprising sensor gates|
    AU2013408432B2|2013-12-20|2017-10-19|Essity Hygiene And Health Aktiebolag|Method and system for monitoring excrement data|
    WO2015094065A1|2013-12-20|2015-06-25|Sca Hygiene Products Ab|Method for monitoring excrement data|
    US20160314264A1|2013-12-20|2016-10-27|Sca Hygiene Products Ab|Method and system for monitoring excrement data|
    US10568778B2|2015-06-12|2020-02-25|Fred Bergman Healthcare Pty Ltd.|System and method for determining a pre-existing characteristic and pre-existing state of an article|
    CN106510960B|2015-09-15|2020-02-28|华星科技股份有限公司|Intelligent nursing consumable and physiological monitoring device with same|
    US10195367B2|2015-10-19|2019-02-05|Fresenius Medical Care Holdings, Inc.|Medical wetness sensing devices and related systems and methods|
    CN106691698A|2015-11-16|2017-05-24|郑耀|Paper diaper wet alarm device, system and method|
    US10285871B2|2016-03-03|2019-05-14|The Procter & Gamble Company|Absorbent article with sensor|
    JP2017215209A|2016-05-31|2017-12-07|株式会社村田製作所|Moisture detection device and sanitary article with moisture detection device|
    US10426672B2|2016-08-26|2019-10-01|Vener8 Technologies|Moisture detection and notification system|
    US20180116879A1|2016-10-27|2018-05-03|Hill-Rom Services, Inc.|Incontinence detection pad with user adjustable sensitivity|
    KR102286844B1|2017-02-22|2021-08-05|현대자동차주식회사|A method for leveling of capacitive level sensor|
    US10492959B2|2017-05-07|2019-12-03|Dongguan Southstar Electronics Limited|Method for indicating and alarming about wet level of diaper|
    CN107727701A|2017-10-12|2018-02-23|中磊电子（苏州）有限公司|Shield soaks detection method and device|
    US11051996B2|2018-08-27|2021-07-06|The Procter & Gamble Company|Sensor devices and systems for monitoring the basic needs of an infant|
    EP3787583A1|2018-05-04|2021-03-10|The Procter & Gamble Company|Sensor devices and systems for monitoring the basic needs of an infant|
    PE20211046A1|2018-09-12|2021-06-04|Massachusetts Inst Technology|WIRELESS HEALTH MONITORING SYSTEM AND PROCEDURE|
    CN110208335A|2019-05-31|2019-09-06|深圳和而泰家居在线网络科技有限公司|The exceeded method for early warning of liquid, device, computer equipment and storage medium|
    法律状态:
    2018-12-18| B06F| Objections, documents and/or translations needed after an examination request according art. 34 industrial property law|
    2019-01-02| B25D| Requested change of name of applicant approved|Owner name: ESSITY HYGIENE AND HEALTH AKTIEBOLAG (SE) |
    2019-09-03| B06U| Preliminary requirement: requests with searches performed by other patent offices: suspension of the patent application procedure|
    2020-06-09| B09A| Decision: intention to grant|
    2020-09-15| B16A| Patent or certificate of addition of invention granted|Free format text: PRAZO DE VALIDADE: 20 (VINTE) ANOS CONTADOS A PARTIR DE 23/12/2011, OBSERVADAS AS CONDICOES LEGAIS. |
    优先权:
    申请号 | 申请日 | 专利标题
    PCT/EP2011/073967|WO2013091728A1|2011-12-23|2011-12-23|Method for detecting a liquid discharge to an absorbent article|
    [返回顶部]