Non-invasive blood analyte measuring system and method utilizing optical absorption

Abstract

A device and method for measuring the concentration of analytes in the blood of a portion of tissue. The device includes a sensor module, a monitor, and a processor (separate from or integral with the sensor module). The sensor module includes a radiation source for emitting radiation to the tissue; a collimator and narrow band filter for processing the radiation after it has transmitted through or been reflected by the tissue; and one or more sensors for sensing the transmitted or reflected radiation. The one or more sensors send a signal to the processor which algorithmically converts the radiation using linear regression or orthogonal functions to determine the concentration of one or more blood analytes. The device self-calibrates to eliminate error caused by variables such as skin character. The sensor module is integrated to reduce size and weight such that it is inobtrusive, and the monitor is compact for transport.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS [0001] The present application is a continuation of patent application having U.S. Ser. No. 10 / 104,782, filed Mar. 21, 2002, which in turn is entitled to the benefit of Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60 / 277,758, filed Mar. 21, 2001, entitled “Noninvasive Infrared Blood Analyte Measuring System and Methods.”FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0002] The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for non-invasive monitoring of various blood analytes in humans and other animals in the fields of medicine, sports medicine, military hardware, anemia treatment, diabetes treatment, and traumatic injury treatment. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0003] This invention relates to a non-invasive apparatus and methods for in vivo monitoring of the concentration levels of various blood analytes within a living subject, using optical absorption spectrophotometry. The device and methods may be used to simultaneously monitor several analytes found in the bloo...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

"The present invention provides an improved apparatus and method for the rapid, non-intrusive determination of blood analyte concentrations. The apparatus is portable and can be positioned on body tissue, such as a finger, and transported on the user's person. It uses a small, wireless sensor that is positioned on the tissue and detects the radiation transmitted through or reflected from the tissue. The apparatus includes a radiation source, sensors, and a processor for determining the concentration of blood analytes in the tissue. It is sensitive and accurate, and can measure blood glucose or lactate levels with a high degree of accuracy and in a short period of time. The apparatus is also designed to be used in various settings and is not limited to the laboratory."

Problems solved by technology

However, there are many situations where blood analyte measurement must be done outside of a domestic or laboratory environment.

A problem encountered in the area of blood analyte measurement via IR spectroscopy is accuracy and drift.

In general, other analytes and various other substances present interfere with the IR measurement of the desired analyte.

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