A PERSONAL USE DIGITAL SCALE FOR MONITORING FLUID RETENTION

Abstract

The present invention discloses a personal use digital scale for monitoring fluid retention, wherein said digital scale (100), comprising a platform (20) for supporting weight, integrated load cells (40) for measuring body weight, a bioimpedance analysis unit (60) to estimate body water content, and a digital display (80) for real-time readings. It features Bluetooth connectivity, a threshold alert system, and portability, enabling accurate fluid monitoring for improved health management.

Specification

Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION:
The field of the present invention lies within medical devices and health monitoring systems. It specifically pertains to personal health management tools, focusing on fluid retention monitoring for individuals with conditions like heart failure, kidney disorders, or edema. It combines bioimpedance technology with digital weight measurement for comprehensive hydration tracking.

BACKGROUD OF THE INVENTION:
Background description includes information that may be useful in understanding the present invention. It is not an admission that any of the information provided herein is prior art or relevant to the presently claimed invention, or that any publication specifically or implicitly referenced is prior art.
Fluid retention is a common health issue associated with various medical conditions, including heart failure, kidney diseases, liver cirrhosis, and lymphedema. It occurs when there is an excess accumulation of fluid in the body's tissues, leading to symptoms such as swelling, weight gain, and discomfort. This can pose a significant risk to patients' overall health, as unmanaged fluid retention can worsen underlying conditions, resulting in complications like hypertension, shortness of breath, or organ overload. Managing and monitoring fluid retention is crucial for timely intervention and effective treatment, making it a critical aspect of daily health management for affected individuals.
Traditionally, fluid retention is tracked through regular weigh-ins and clinical assessments. Patients are often advised to monitor their weight daily using conventional scales, as rapid weight fluctuations are typically indicative of fluid shifts. However, regular scales only provide a general measurement of body weight and cannot distinguish between changes due to fat, muscle, or fluid. This lack of specificity can make it difficult for patients and healthcare providers to accurately gauge fluid retention levels. Additionally, the absence of immediate alerts and user-friendly interfaces in conventional scales limits their practicality for patients who require close and consistent monitoring.
To address these challenges, the present invention introduces a personal use digital scale specifically designed for monitoring fluid retention. This invention not only measures overall body weight but also integrates bioimpedance analysis, which helps in determining body water content. Bioimpedance technology sends a low, harmless electrical current through the body, measuring the resistance it encounters. This resistance correlates with body water levels, offering users a more precise understanding of fluid shifts. By incorporating this feature into a personal digital scale, the invention enables patients to differentiate weight changes caused by fluid retention from those due to other factors like food intake or physical activity.
In addition to bioimpedance technology, the present invention focuses on user convenience and accessibility. It offers a user-friendly interface with clear digital readings, making it easier for individuals, particularly older adults or those with limited technical skills, to use effectively. The scale's digital display presents data in an easily understandable format, with adjustable font sizes to accommodate users with visual impairments. The scale is equipped with a feature that allows users to set daily weight thresholds. If the measured weight exceeds this threshold, the scale issues an alert, prompting users to take necessary actions, such as adjusting medication, contacting a healthcare provider, or implementing dietary changes.
The integration of mobile connectivity further enhances the scale's functionality. By connecting to a smartphone via Bluetooth, users can sync data directly to a dedicated app, enabling them to track their fluid retention trends over time. This digital log can be shared with healthcare providers, offering a comprehensive view of the patient's condition and facilitating informed decision-making. The app is designed with features that support patient education, including daily reminders, hydration tips, and guidance on managing fluid intake. Such integration empowers users to take a proactive approach to their health, improving adherence to treatment plans and potentially reducing the need for frequent hospital visits.
The present invention also addresses the psychological aspect of managing fluid retention. For many patients, the uncertainty associated with weight fluctuations can lead to anxiety and stress. By providing precise measurements and real-time alerts, the scale reduces the ambiguity of fluid retention management, offering reassurance to users. Knowing that the scale can accurately detect fluid changes and provide timely notifications can alleviate the burden of constant monitoring, allowing patients to focus on other aspects of their well-being.
Furthermore, the personal use digital scale is designed to be compact, lightweight, and portable. Its portability makes it suitable for use in various settings, whether at home, during travel, or even in clinical environments for initial assessments. The scale is battery-operated, featuring energy-efficient technology that ensures long-lasting usage without frequent battery replacements. Its durability and ease of maintenance also contribute to its practicality, making it a cost-effective solution for individuals seeking reliable fluid monitoring without the need for advanced medical devices or frequent clinic visits.
The development of this scale takes into account the needs of diverse patient populations. It is suitable for individuals of different ages, body types, and medical conditions. The scale's design incorporates safety measures, ensuring that the bioimpedance analysis is safe and non-invasive. It complies with medical device standards, offering users confidence in its reliability and accuracy. The scale's versatile design allows for use by both patients managing chronic conditions and those undergoing temporary treatments that may affect fluid balance, such as certain medications or surgical procedures.
Overall, the present invention represents a significant advancement in personal health management, focusing on fluid retention monitoring. By combining weight measurement, bioimpedance analysis, user-friendly features, and mobile connectivity, it offers a comprehensive solution for patients in need of accurate and timely fluid tracking. The scale's design prioritizes patient safety, convenience, and mental well-being, making it an essential tool for those managing conditions where fluid retention is a concern. As healthcare continues to shift towards personalized and home-based management, this digital scale stands as an innovative contribution, aligning with the broader trend of empowering individuals to take control of their health.

OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION:
The prime object of the invention is to provide a personal use digital scale capable of accurately monitoring fluid retention through advanced weight measurement and bioimpedance analysis. This scale is designed to help users effectively manage fluid balance, particularly those with conditions like heart failure, kidney disorders, or lymphedema, where regular monitoring is essential for timely intervention and improved health outcomes.
Another object of the invention is to offer a user-friendly interface that makes it easy for individuals to interpret data without requiring technical expertise. The digital scale features a clear display with adjustable font sizes, ensuring that users of all ages, including the elderly or visually impaired, can access and understand their fluid retention levels effortlessly.
Yet another object of the invention is to integrate mobile connectivity for enhanced functionality. By enabling Bluetooth syncing with smartphones, the scale allows users to store, track, and share their fluid retention data over time. This connectivity also facilitates better communication between patients and healthcare providers, improving overall treatment adherence and management.
Still another object of the invention is to ensure portability and convenience for users. The scale is designed to be compact and lightweight, making it suitable for use in various settings, including at home or during travel. Its battery-operated nature, combined with energy-efficient components, ensures long-lasting performance, allowing for consistent fluid monitoring without frequent battery replacements.
A further object of the invention is to provide a psychological benefit to users by reducing the anxiety associated with fluid retention management. The scale's ability to offer precise measurements, set alerts for weight thresholds, and provide real-time notifications gives users confidence and reassurance, enabling them to manage their condition proactively and with greater peace of mind.
An additional object of the invention is to ensure safety and reliability. The bioimpedance analysis used in the scale is non-invasive and adheres to medical device standards, ensuring that users can confidently utilize the device for regular monitoring without any adverse effects. The invention's focus on safety further aligns with healthcare regulations, making it a trustworthy tool for personal health management.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION:
The present invention, a personal use digital scale for monitoring fluid retention, is designed to offer users an accurate and comprehensive tool for managing fluid balance, especially in individuals with conditions such as heart failure, kidney disorders, and lymphedema. It combines traditional weight measurement with bioimpedance analysis, enabling users to distinguish weight fluctuations caused by fluid retention from those due to other factors like fat or muscle changes. This innovation aims to enhance patient safety, treatment adherence, and overall well-being by providing precise, real-time insights into fluid levels.
An inventive aspect of the invention is to provide a dual-functionality scale that measures both total body weight and body water content through integrated bioimpedance technology. By sending a low, harmless electrical current through the body, the scale detects changes in body water levels, offering a precise measurement of fluid shifts. This capability allows users to differentiate between general weight gain or loss and fluid retention, ensuring targeted management of their condition.
Another inventive aspect of the invention is to offer an easy-to-use interface with adjustable font sizes for users with visual impairments. The digital display presents readings in a clear, user-friendly format, making it accessible for individuals of all ages, particularly the elderly or those with limited technical skills. The scale also allows users to set customizable daily weight thresholds, issuing alerts when the weight exceeds the set limits, thereby facilitating timely intervention and reducing potential health risks.
Yet another inventive aspect of the invention is the inclusion of mobile connectivity via Bluetooth. This feature allows users to sync their fluid retention data with a dedicated smartphone app, enabling long-term tracking, data analysis, and seamless communication with healthcare providers. The app offers additional functionalities, such as daily reminders, hydration tips, and guidance on managing fluid intake, empowering users to maintain better control over their health and adhere to treatment plans more effectively.
Still another inventive aspect of the invention is its portability and energy efficiency. The scale's compact, lightweight design makes it convenient for use in various settings, whether at home, during travel, or even in healthcare facilities for initial assessments. The device operates on batteries, utilizing energy-efficient technology that ensures long-lasting performance without frequent replacements. This makes it suitable for continuous, reliable monitoring, especially for individuals who require daily fluid tracking.
A further inventive aspect of the invention is its focus on reducing anxiety and enhancing psychological well-being. By providing real-time alerts, precise fluid measurements, and easy-to-interpret data, the scale alleviates the uncertainty often associated with fluid retention management. This reduces stress for users, allowing them to approach their health management proactively and with confidence. The device not only improves physical health outcomes but also supports mental well-being by offering reassurance and reducing the burden of frequent clinic visits.
An additional inventive aspect of the invention is its compliance with medical device standards, ensuring that the bioimpedance analysis is non-invasive and safe for regular use. The scale's reliable performance, combined with its adherence to safety regulations, makes it a trustworthy tool for personal health monitoring. The integration of safety measures, such as limiting electrical current intensity during bioimpedance analysis, ensures that users can use the scale consistently without adverse effects, contributing to long-term health management.
Therefore, the present invention offers a multifaceted approach to fluid retention monitoring, integrating innovative features such as bioimpedance analysis, user-friendly interface, mobile connectivity, portability, and safety compliance. It is designed to provide users with accurate, real-time insights into their fluid levels, facilitating proactive management of conditions that cause fluid retention. The invention not only enhances physical health monitoring but also supports users' mental well-being, making it an essential tool for personal health management.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS:
The accompanying drawings illustrate various embodiments of "A Personal Use Digital Scale for Monitoring Fluid Retention," highlighting key aspects of its design and functionality. These figures are intended for illustrative purposes to aid in understanding the invention and are not meant to limit its scope.
FIG. 1 depicts a block diagram of a personal use digital scale, showing its components and integration of bioimpedance technology, according to an embodiment of the present invention.
The drawings provided will be further described in detail in the following sections. They offer a visual representation of the digital scale's design, data measurement process, and connectivity features, helping to clarify and support the detailed description of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION:
In the following detailed description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings which form a part hereof, and in which is shown by way of illustration specific embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the invention, and it is to be understood that the embodiments may be combined, or that other embodiments may be utilized and that structural and logical changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. The following detailed description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense, and the scope of the present invention is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.
The present invention is described in brief with reference to the accompanying drawings. Now, refer in more detail to the exemplary drawings for the purposes of illustrating non-limiting embodiments of the present invention.
As used herein, the term "comprising" and its derivatives including "comprises" and "comprise" include each of the stated integers or elements but does not exclude the inclusion of one or more further integers or elements.
As used herein, the singular forms "a", "an", and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. For example, reference to "a device" encompasses a single device as well as two or more devices, and the like.
As used herein, the terms "for example", "like", "such as", or "including" are meant to introduce examples that further clarify more general subject matter. Unless otherwise specified, these examples are provided only as an aid for understanding the applications illustrated in the present disclosure, and are not meant to be limiting in any fashion.
As used herein, the terms ""may", "can", "could", or "might" be included or have a characteristic, that particular component or feature is not required to be included or have the characteristic.
Exemplary embodiments will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which exemplary embodiments are shown. These exemplary embodiments are provided only for illustrative purposes and so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those of ordinary skill in the art. The invention disclosed may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein.
Various modifications will be readily apparent to persons skilled in the art. The general principles defined herein may be applied to other embodiments and applications without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Moreover, all statements herein reciting embodiments of the invention, as well as specific examples thereof, are intended to encompass both structural and functional equivalents thereof. Additionally, it is intended that such equivalents include both currently known equivalents as well as equivalents developed in the future (i.e., any elements developed that perform the same function, regardless of structure). Also, the terminology and phraseology used is for the purpose of describing exemplary embodiments and should not be considered limiting. Thus, the present invention is to be accorded the widest scope encompassing numerous alternatives, modifications and equivalents consistent with the principles and features disclosed. For purpose of clarity, details relating to technical material that is known in the technical fields related to the invention have not been described in detail so as not to unnecessarily obscure the present invention.
Each of the appended claims defines a separate invention, which for infringement purposes is recognized as including equivalents to the various elements or limitations specified in the claims. Depending on the context, all references below to the "invention" may in some cases refer to certain specific embodiments only. In other cases, it will be recognized that references to the "invention" will refer to subject matter recited in one or more, but not necessarily all, of the claims.
All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g., "such as") provided with respect to certain embodiments herein is intended merely to better illuminate the invention and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the invention otherwise claimed. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element essential to the practice of the invention.
Various terms as used herein are shown below. To the extent a term used in a claim is not defined below, it should be given the broadest definition and persons in the pertinent art have given that term as reflected in printed publications and issued patents at the time of filing.
Groupings of alternative elements or embodiments of the invention disclosed herein are not to be construed as limitations. Each group member can be referred to and claimed individually or in any combination with other members of the group or other elements found herein. One or more members of a group can be included in, or deleted from, a group for reasons of convenience and/or patentability. When any such inclusion or deletion occurs, the specification is herein deemed to contain the group as modified thus fulfilling the written description of all groups used in the appended claims.
With reference to FIG. 1, in an embodiment of the present invention, the present invention, a personal use digital scale for monitoring fluid retention (100), is designed to offer users an effective tool for tracking fluid balance. The device is particularly beneficial for individuals managing conditions like heart failure, kidney disorders, and lymphedema, where monitoring fluid retention is critical for maintaining health. The scale is engineered to provide real-time and accurate measurements, integrating multiple components that enhance its utility, safety, and convenience.
The digital scale (100) comprises a platform (20) that serves as the base for supporting the user's weight. This platform (20) is constructed from durable materials that can withstand repeated use while ensuring comfort and stability for users of various body types. The design of the platform (20) incorporates a non-slip surface, preventing accidental slips or falls, thereby increasing user safety during regular weigh-ins. The base is also designed to be lightweight, enabling easy portability, making the scale suitable for use at home, during travel, or even in healthcare facilities for assessments of fluid retention. The compact structure of the platform (20) contributes to the overall portability of the device, allowing users to integrate it seamlessly into their daily routine.
Integrated within the platform (20) are load cells (40), which are responsible for measuring total body weight. These load cells (40) are highly sensitive and calibrated to detect minute weight fluctuations with high accuracy. They ensure that even small changes in body weight, which may be indicative of fluid retention, are captured. The load cells (40) are connected to an internal processing unit that translates the analog signals into digital data, which is then displayed on the digital display (80). This mechanism allows for precise weight measurement, an essential aspect of monitoring fluid balance. The digital scale (100) not only tracks total body weight but also combines this information with the bioimpedance analysis to provide a comprehensive overview of fluid retention levels.
A significant component of the invention is the bioimpedance analysis unit (60), which is integrated into the digital scale (100). This unit (60) estimates body water content by sending a low electrical current through the user's body and measuring the resistance it encounters. The bioimpedance analysis unit (60) differentiates fluid-related changes in weight from those caused by fat or muscle variations. The resistance detected by the unit (60) correlates with the amount of water present in the body, enabling the scale to provide an accurate reading of fluid levels. This functionality is especially useful for users with conditions that lead to sudden fluid retention, as it provides real-time insights into the user's fluid status. The bioimpedance analysis unit (60) operates within safety limits, ensuring the electrical current used is non-invasive and complies with medical device standards, making it safe for regular use.
The digital display (80) is designed to be clear and easy to read, presenting real-time data on both body weight and fluid retention levels. This display (80) features a user interface with adjustable font sizes, making it accessible for users with visual impairments. The adjustable interface ensures that users of all ages can easily interpret the readings, enhancing the usability of the device. The digital display (80) also offers a user-friendly menu system, allowing users to navigate through various settings, including setting weight thresholds and activating other features. Additionally, the display (80) is backlit, providing visibility in low-light conditions, further improving the user experience.
The invention incorporates a Bluetooth module, enabling wireless connectivity between the scale (100) and a smartphone app. This module facilitates data transfer from the digital scale (100) to the user's smartphone, allowing for easy logging and analysis of fluid retention trends over time. The smartphone app is equipped with various features, including daily reminders, hydration tips, and notifications for significant changes in fluid retention or weight. These features help users maintain better control over their fluid balance, improving adherence to treatment plans and overall health management. The app's interface is designed to be intuitive, ensuring that users can easily access their historical data and share it with healthcare providers when needed.
The digital scale (100) operates on batteries and includes energy-efficient components to ensure long-lasting performance without frequent battery replacements. The energy-efficient design not only reduces maintenance but also enhances the scale's reliability for continuous use. The battery compartment is easily accessible, allowing users to replace batteries without difficulty. The scale also features an automatic shut-off function that conserves battery life, further contributing to its efficiency and user convenience.
An additional feature of the digital scale (100) is the customizable threshold alert system. This system allows users to set daily weight limits, triggering notifications when these limits are exceeded. This feature is particularly useful for users managing conditions where sudden fluid retention could indicate a need for medical intervention. By alerting users to significant changes in weight, the digital scale (100) facilitates timely responses, reducing the risk of complications associated with unmanaged fluid retention.
The present invention emphasizes reducing user anxiety by providing accurate, real-time measurements of fluid retention. The scale (100) is designed to offer reassurance through precise data, enabling users to approach their health management proactively. By integrating advanced technology with user-friendly features, the digital scale (100) aims to improve both physical health outcomes and psychological well-being. The real-time insights provided by the scale (100) help users differentiate between normal weight fluctuations and those caused by fluid retention, reducing uncertainty and stress.
The scale (100) is also designed to be compact and portable, making it suitable for use in various settings. Its lightweight construction and easy-to-carry form factor ensure that users can take it along when traveling or visiting healthcare facilities. Despite its portability, the scale (100) maintains accuracy and reliability, providing consistent readings regardless of location. This makes it an essential tool for users who require regular monitoring of fluid levels, enabling seamless integration into their lifestyle.
The digital scale (100) also adheres to medical device safety standards, particularly regarding the bioimpedance analysis unit (60). The electrical current used in bioimpedance analysis is carefully controlled to be non-invasive and safe for frequent use. The device's design includes protective measures that prevent any adverse effects during operation, making it suitable for long-term use in managing conditions that involve fluid retention.
The smartphone app connected to the digital scale (100) enhances the user experience by offering a comprehensive health management system. In addition to tracking fluid retention trends, the app provides educational resources, such as information on the importance of fluid balance, tips for managing hydration, and alerts that help users maintain optimal health. The app's reminder system encourages consistent use of the scale (100), promoting adherence to monitoring routines and improving overall outcomes for users with fluid retention issues.
The present invention, a personal use digital scale for monitoring fluid retention (100), offers a comprehensive solution for individuals who need to manage fluid balance regularly. By integrating advanced technologies like bioimpedance analysis, Bluetooth connectivity, and customizable alerts, the scale (100) provides users with an effective and user-friendly tool for health management. Its focus on accuracy, safety, portability, and psychological well-being makes it an essential device for patients managing fluid retention conditions, aligning with modern healthcare trends toward personalized and home-based management solutions. The digital scale (100) not only meets users' immediate needs but also empowers them to take proactive control of their health, enhancing both physical and mental well-being.

The working of the personal use digital scale for monitoring fluid retention involves a series of integrated functions that work together to deliver precise measurements of both body weight and fluid levels. Below is a detailed explanation of how the device operates:
When a user steps onto the platform (20) of the digital scale, the load cells (40) beneath the platform are activated. These load cells detect the total body weight by converting the pressure applied on the platform into electrical signals. These signals are then processed by an internal microcontroller that translates them into digital data. The digital data is subsequently displayed on the digital display (80), providing a clear and immediate reading of the user's total body weight.
Simultaneously, the bioimpedance analysis unit (60) starts functioning by sending a low electrical current through the user's body. This current is harmless and operates at a safe frequency, complying with medical safety standards. As the current passes through the body, it encounters resistance based on the body's water content. Since water is a good conductor of electricity, the current flows more easily through hydrated areas and encounters higher resistance in less hydrated areas. The bioimpedance analysis unit (60) measures this resistance and uses it to estimate the total body water content, which is indicative of fluid retention levels.
The data collected from the bioimpedance analysis unit is processed along with the weight measurement data by the scale's internal system. The results are displayed on the digital display (80), providing users with two key pieces of information: total body weight and estimated fluid levels. The digital display is designed to be user-friendly, with an option to adjust the font size, ensuring that the readings are easily readable by users of different age groups, including those with visual impairments.
The digital scale also features a customizable threshold alert system. Users can set daily weight limits based on their health conditions and monitoring needs. If the measured weight or fluid level exceeds the set threshold, the scale triggers an alert, notifying the user of potential fluid retention that may require attention. This alert system is particularly useful for users managing conditions like heart failure or kidney disorders, where sudden fluid changes can signal health complications. The alert appears as a visual notification on the digital display (80) and can also be sent to the connected smartphone app.
The Bluetooth module within the scale facilitates wireless connectivity, enabling users to sync their measurement data with a dedicated smartphone app. Once the Bluetooth connection is established, the scale automatically transfers the collected data to the app, where users can track fluid retention trends over time. The app offers additional functionalities, such as daily reminders to use the scale, hydration tips, and alerts for significant changes in weight or fluid levels. This integration enhances the effectiveness of fluid retention management by allowing users to maintain a digital log of their data, which can be shared with healthcare providers for better treatment planning.
The digital scale operates on batteries, incorporating energy-efficient components that ensure long-lasting performance. When not in use, the scale automatically powers off to conserve battery life. This feature enhances the overall reliability of the device, allowing users to consistently monitor fluid retention without frequent interruptions for battery replacement. The battery compartment is also designed for easy access, enabling users to replace batteries conveniently when needed.
Overall, the working of the digital scale involves a seamless combination of weight measurement, bioimpedance analysis, data processing, and user interaction through a digital display and smartphone app. The device's design focuses on providing accurate, real-time monitoring of fluid retention, enabling users to take a proactive approach to managing their health. By offering clear measurements, timely alerts, and the convenience of mobile connectivity, the digital scale effectively supports users in tracking fluid balance, ensuring better management of conditions associated with fluid retention.

ADVANTAGES OF THE INVENTION:
The prime advantage of the invention is to provide accurate fluid retention monitoring, combining weight measurement with bioimpedance analysis, enabling users to differentiate fluid-related weight changes from those due to fat or muscle variations.
Another advantage of the invention is its user-friendly digital display, featuring adjustable font sizes, which makes it accessible to users of all ages, including those with visual impairments, ensuring ease of data interpretation.
Yet another advantage of the invention is its Bluetooth connectivity, which allows seamless syncing with a smartphone app. This enables users to track fluid retention trends over time and share data with healthcare providers.
Still another advantage of the invention is its customizable threshold alert system, which notifies users of significant weight changes. This feature facilitates timely intervention, reducing the risk of complications due to unmanaged fluid retention.
A further advantage of the invention is its compact and portable design, allowing users to conveniently monitor fluid retention at home or while traveling, ensuring consistent health management in various settings.
An additional advantage of the invention is its battery-operated, energy-efficient design, which ensures long-lasting performance. This reduces the need for frequent battery replacements, enhancing reliability and user convenience.
, Claims:CLAIM(S):
We Claim:
1. A personal use digital scale for monitoring fluid retention (100), comprising:
a. a platform (20) for supporting a user's weight,
b. integrated load cells (40) for measuring total body weight,
c. a bioimpedance analysis unit (60) configured to estimate body water content by sending a low electrical current through the user's body and measuring the resistance encountered, and
d. a digital display (80) for providing real-time readings of body weight and fluid retention levels.
2. The digital scale of claim 1, wherein the bioimpedance analysis unit is configured to distinguish changes in body weight due to fluid shifts from those caused by fat or muscle changes.
3. The digital scale of claim 1, further comprising a user interface with adjustable font sizes on the digital display, making it accessible for users with visual impairments.
4. The digital scale of claim 1, wherein the device includes a Bluetooth module for wireless connectivity, enabling syncing with a smartphone app to log and analyze fluid retention data over time.
5. The digital scale of claim 4, wherein the smartphone app is configured to provide additional features, including daily reminders, hydration tips, and alerts when significant changes in body weight or fluid levels are detected.
6. The digital scale of claim 1, wherein the device is battery-operated and includes energy-efficient components designed to ensure long-lasting performance without frequent battery replacements.
7. The digital scale of claim 1, further comprising a threshold alert feature that allows users to set customizable daily weight limits, triggering notifications when these limits are exceeded.
8. The digital scale of claim 1, wherein the device is designed to be compact and portable, suitable for use at home, during travel, or in healthcare facilities for fluid retention assessments.
9. The digital scale of claim 1, wherein the bioimpedance analysis unit complies with medical device safety standards, ensuring the electrical current used for analysis is non-invasive and safe for regular use.
10. The digital scale of claim 1, wherein the device is configured to reduce user anxiety by providing real-time, accurate measurements of fluid retention, enabling proactive management of conditions like heart failure, kidney disorders, and lymphedema.

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