FLUID SENSING SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR HEALTHCARE APPLICATIONS

Abstract

ABSTRACT FLUID SENSING SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR HEALTHCARE APPLICATIONS The present invention relates to a fabric-based fluid sensing system (100) and method designed for healthcare applications, providing efficient detection of fluid leakage with real-time monitoring and alerts. The system (100) comprises a fabric assembly (101) that includes a top electroconductive sheet (102), a middle divider sheet (103), and a bottom electroconductive sheet (104), with integrated sensors (105, 106) connected to a microcontroller (107). The system monitors moisture levels across a wide surface area by detecting changes in electrical properties, triggering an alarm (108) and sending notifications through a cloud-based mobile application (109). The method involves utilizing the fabric assembly (101) to continuously monitor fluid leakage and dynamically alert caregivers for timely intervention. This efficient, cost-effective system (100) improves fluid monitoring in neonatal care, elderly care, and hospital settings, ensuring timely intervention and reducing infection risks.

Specification

Description:FLUID SENSING SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR HEALTHCARE APPLICATIONS

FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[001] The present invention relates to a fluid leakage detection, particularly a fluid sensing system and method for healthcare applications. The present invention is particularly, but not exclusively useful in various applications for healthcare where monitoring of fluid leakage is critical.
BACKGROUND
[002] Current moisture detection systems in textiles primarily depend on conductive electrodes embedded within fabric materials to identify the presence of unwanted fluids. However, these systems exhibit significant limitations, particularly in their reliance on point-specific electrodes for fluid detection. This restricts effective fluid detection to areas where the electrodes are positioned, rendering the system ineffective when fluids do not directly contact these electrode points.
[003] Furthermore, the electrodes and electronic components utilized in these systems are often costly, susceptible to corrosion, and necessitate frequent replacement, resulting in increased maintenance of costs. This problem is exacerbated by the potential for unintentional contact between electrodes caused by fabric wrinkling or folding, which can lead to false alarms and unnecessary disruptions.
[004] Several patents illustrate these challenges. The prior art US 6373395B1 discloses a moisture detector that utilizes a detector unit powered by electrical charge stored in capacitors, which triggers a remote alarm via a wireless link when moisture is detected. However, the reliance on point-specific electrodes significantly limits the fluid detection capability. The prior art US 10945663B2 discloses a smart patch with multi-component strands integrated into textiles, where the strands contain sensory elements capable of measuring tactile forces, moisture, wetness, and biopotentials simultaneously. A potential disadvantage observed is the challenge of integrating multiple strands without affecting fabric comfort, durability, or increasing production costs. The prior art US11331227B2 discloses a system for detecting moisture on an occupant support using multiple moisture-responsive sensors, each tuned to specific frequencies and monitored through a transceiver. The inclusion of multiple sensors adds complexity and cost, diminishing the practicality of the system.
[005] To address these challenges, the present invention proposes a fabric-based system that incorporates sheets of electroconductive materials combined with textile fibers. This innovative design allows for fluid detection across a broad surface area, eliminating the reliance on specific electrode points. Additionally, it reduces the likelihood of false alarms caused by material deformation, providing a more reliable and cost-effective solution for fluid detection in various applications.

OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION
[006] The object of the present invention is to provide a fabric-based fluid sensing system and method capable of efficiently detecting fluid leakage across a wide surface area in healthcare applications, ensuring timely intervention and improved patient care.
[007] It is another object of the present invention to develop a comprehensive moisture detection system that eliminates the reliance on point-specific electrodes, offering a reliable and cost-effective solution for continuous fluid monitoring in textiles.
[008] Another object of the present invention is to enable real-time monitoring, alerts, and data transmission to healthcare providers, enhancing the overall efficiency of fluid management in healthcare settings.
[009] It is yet another object of the present invention to create a fluid sensing system that reduces false alarms caused by fabric deformation as a result of folding or crevices, ensuring accurate detection while maintaining the comfort and durability of the textile.

[0010] Yet another object of the invention is creating an efficient and adaptable solution for fluid monitoring in various healthcare environments, including neonatal care, elderly care, and hospital settings.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0011] The present invention relates to a fluid sensing system (100) designed for healthcare applications, specifically for detecting moisture or fluid leakage in environments such as neonatal care, adult care, and hospital bedding. The fluid sensing system (100) comprises of a fabric assembly (101) having a top electroconductive sheet (102), a middle divider sheet (103), and a bottom electroconductive sheet (104); a plurality of sensors (105, 106) coupled to the top electroconductive sheet (102) and the bottom electroconductive sheet (103); a microcontroller (107) connected to the plurality of sensors (105, 106); an alarm (108) connected to the microcontroller (107), wherein the microcontroller (107) is configured to process signals received from the plurality of sensors (105, 106) and trigger the alarm (108) when fluid is detected; and a cloud-based mobile application (109) wirelessly connected to the microcontroller (107), wherein the application (109) receives alerts and sends notifications to a user.
[0012] In one aspect the present invention with a system (100) incorporates a fabric assembly (101) equipped with electroconductive sheets and sensors, which together enable real-time fluid detection and automated alert generation to healthcare providers.
[0013] In another aspect the fabric assembly (101) consists of three primary layers: a top electroconductive sheet (102), a middle divider sheet (103) acting as an insulator, and a bottom electroconductive sheet (104). The top and bottom electroconductive sheets (102, 104) are made from woven electroconductive fibers such as carbon fiber or polythiophene, combined with textile fibers like acrylic, linen, rayon, and polyester to ensure both durability and sensitivity to moisture.
[0014] Yet another aspect of the invention is that two types of sensors are embedded in the fabric assembly (101): an electric potential sensor (105) and a resistance sensor (106), which monitor changes in electrical properties caused by fluid presence. These sensors are connected to a microcontroller (107), which processes the signals received from the sensors. When fluid is detected, the microcontroller (107) activates an alarm (108) and sends notifications through a cloud-based mobile application (109) to alert users in real time.
[0015] In another aspect the system (100) provides an efficient, low-cost solution for monitoring moisture levels in fabric used in healthcare settings. This aspect of the invention allows for widespread detection across the fabric's surface, eliminating the limitations of point-specific sensors.
[0016] Yet another aspect of the invention is the cloud-based mobile application (109) further enhances the system by allowing healthcare professionals to monitor patient conditions remotely, ensuring timely interventions.
[0017] In another aspect, the present invention discloses a method for using the fluid sensing system (100) in healthcare applications. The method comprising of sensing a plurality of parameters from a top electroconductive sheet (102) and a bottom electroconductive sheet (104) in a fabric assembly (101) by a plurality of sensors (105, 106); sending output signals from the plurality of sensors (105) to a microcontroller (107); processing of the signals by the microcontroller (107) to determine fluid leakage; activating an alarm (108) by the microcontroller (107) upon detection of fluid leakage; and sending notification to a user through a cloud-based mobile application (109) regarding detection of fluid leakage.
[0018] Overall, this invention provides a reliable and effective system (100) for fluid detection in healthcare applications, offering enhanced patient care through real-time monitoring and alert mechanisms. The invention involves integrating the fabric assembly (101) into patient care products, connecting the system's sensors to the microcontroller, and generating real-time alerts upon fluid detection. The system (100) optimizes moisture detection, improving hygiene and patient comfort while reducing the risk of infection.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0019] The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the present disclosure and is incorporated in and constitutes a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure and, together with the, serve to explain the principles of the present disclosure.
[0020] Figure 1 illustrates a block diagram of the fluid sensing system (100) designed for healthcare applications. This diagram depicts the key components of the system, including the fabric assembly (101), which consists of a top electroconductive sheet, a middle divider sheet, and a bottom electroconductive sheet. The block diagram also highlights the connectivity between the sensors and the microcontroller (107), which processes the sensor data and triggers the alarm (108) upon detection of fluid. Additionally, the diagram demonstrates the wireless connection between the microcontroller and the cloud-based mobile application (109), which sends alerts and notifications to a user for real-time monitoring.
[0021] Figure 2 illustrates a detailed view of the fabric assembly (101), highlighting the structure of the top electroconductive sheet (102), middle divider sheet (103), and bottom electroconductive sheet (104). The figure shows the warp and weft yarns used in the fabric, with the electroconductive fibers and textile fibers woven together in a specified yarn ratio. The thickness of each sheet is also depicted, demonstrating how the fabric assembly ensures both durability and sensitivity in fluid detection. The layout and composition of the electroconductive sheets and the middle divider sheet provide insulation and control over electrical conductivity, which is essential for accurate fluid sensing.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0022] The following description includes the preferred best mode of one embodiment of the present invention. It will be clear from this description of the invention that the invention is not limited to these illustrated embodiments but that the invention also includes a variety of modifications and embodiments thereto. Therefore, the present description should be seen as illustrative and not limiting. While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative constructions, it should be understood, that there is no intention to limit the invention to the specific form disclosed, but, on the contrary, the invention is to cover all modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents. (this is needed as first para of detailed description)
[0023] Figure 1 illustrates a block diagram detailing the components of the fluid sensing system (100) used in healthcare applications. This diagram showcases the interconnected components of the system (100) for use in healthcare applications, where it is integrated into fabric assemblies for rapid and reliable moisture detection. It highlights the use in neonatal care, adult incontinence products, and hospital bedding, providing timely alerts to prevent moisture-related health risks.
[0024] The present invention comprises of a fabric assembly with electroconductive and textile fibers, sensors for detecting fluid presence, a microcontroller for processing signals, an alarm for notifying users of fluid detection, and a cloud-based mobile application for wireless alerts.
[0025] The following detailed description provides an illustrative embodiment of the invention and should not be considered limiting. While this description details a particular configuration of the fluid sensing system, the invention includes various modifications and alternatives that fall within the scope of the claims.
[0026] The fluid sensing system (100) comprises a fabric assembly (101) having a top electroconductive sheet (102) made of woven electroconductive fibers; a middle divider sheet (103); a bottom electroconductive sheet (104) made of woven electroconductive fibers; a plurality of sensors (105, 106) coupled to the top electroconductive sheet (102) and the bottom electroconductive sheet (104); a microcontroller (107) connected to the plurality of sensors (105, 106); an alarm(108) connected to the microcontroller (107); and a cloud-based mobile application (109) wirelessly connected to the microcontroller (107), wherein the application (109) receives alerts and sends notifications to a user.
[0027] The fluid sensing system (100) designed for use in healthcare applications, where it is integrated into fabric assemblies for rapid and reliable moisture detection. The fabric assembly (101) forms the core of the fluid sensing system (100) and comprises three primary layers; a top electroconductive sheet (102) made of woven electroconductive fibers; a middle divider sheet (103), serving as an insulating layer that remains non-conductive under dry conditions and separates the top and bottom layers; and a bottom electroconductive sheet (104), similar to the top layer, wherein its composed of woven electroconductive fibers. The top and bottom electroconductive sheets can further have a top and bottom layer of suitable fabric material for insulation or aesthetic purposes.
[0028] The electroconductive fibers in the sheets (102, 104) are selected from carbon fiber and polythiophene, while the textile fibers are made of acrylic, linen, rayon, polyester, viscose, and nylon. The fabric assembly (101) consists of 50-80% electroconductive fibers and 50-20% textile fibers, ensuring a durable, yet sensitive, moisture detection system.
[0029] The fabric assembly (101) incorporates two types of yarn namely warp yarn and weft yarn. The yarn count ranges from 120 to 320, with a warp-to-weft yarn ratio of 1.4:1 to 2.8:1. The yarn weave diameter varies from 0.87 mm to 0.91 mm. The thickness of the electroconductive sheets (102, 104) is between 0.15 mm and 0.5 mm, while the middle divider sheet (103) has a thickness of 0.2 mm to 2.5 mm. Samples of the biodegradable film were prepared from the disclosed process. Table 1 illustrates the prepared samples of the electroconductive sheets as per the disclosed invention.
Table 1: Samples of the Electroconductive Sheets

Sample Composition Yarn Count Warp-to-Weft Ratio Yarn Diameter (mm) Electroconductive Sheet Thickness (mm)
A 75% Carbon Fiber, 25% Acrylic Fiber 150 1.4:1 0.89 0.25
B 60% Polythiophene, 40% Polyester Fiber 250 2:1 0.90 0.30
C 50% Carbon Fiber, 50% Rayon Fiber 300 2.8:1 0.91 0.15

[0030] The system (100) utilizes two primary sensors (105, 106) for moisture detection. The electric potential sensor (105) monitors whether the circuit between the top and bottom electroconductive sheets (102, 104) is open or closed. In dry conditions, the top and bottom electroconductive sheets separated by the divider sheet doesn't conduct since it is dry. The circuit remains open with no potential difference. The sensors send signal, which microcontroller (107) interprets as negative signal. There is no sounding of alarm.
[0031] In wet conditions, when fluid enters the system, the divider sheet becomes wet and connects the top and bottom electroconductive sheets. As a result, the circuit closes, creating a potential difference. The electric potential sensor (105) detects potential difference between the top and bottom electroconductive sheets (102, 104). The resistance sensor (106) detects changes in resistance between the top and bottom electroconductive sheets (102, 104). The presence of moisture lowers the resistance, providing an accurate indication of fluid contact. The signals from the electric potential and resistance sensors (105, 106) are transmitted to a microcontroller (107), which processes the signals to determine moisture presence. Upon detection of fluid, the microcontroller (107) activates an alarm (108) and sends a notification to a cloud-based mobile application (109) that alerts the user in real time.
[0032] In dry conditions, the system (100) remains non-conductive, with no potential difference between the top and bottom sheets (102, 104), resulting in an open circuit. The sensors (105, 106) relay signals to the microcontroller (107), which interprets this as an indication of no moisture. The alarm (108) remains inactive.
[0033] When moisture comes into contact with the fabric assembly (101), it penetrates the middle divider sheet (103), closing the circuit between the top and bottom electroconductive sheets (102, 104). This creates a potential difference and a change in resistance, which the sensors (105, 106) detect. The microcontroller (107) processes these signals, activates the alarm (108), and sends an alert to the mobile application (109).
[0034] The system (100) was tested using various fabric compositions, yarn counts, and warp-to-weft ratios. Testing results confirmed that the fluid sensing system effectively detects moisture in less than 2.5 seconds, depending on material composition and structural parameters. The sensor response times were consistent with the fabric's structural properties, ensuring rapid detection and reliable performance across various healthcare applications.
[0035] Table 2 represents the fluid sensing response time of the system (100) based on samples having various fabric compositions, yarn counts, and warp-to-weft ratios. The control unit (109) takes input based on fabric composition and other parameters to detect moisture levels. The system's ability to sense fluid within 2.5 seconds demonstrates efficient performance in healthcare applications.

Table 2: Fluid Sensing Response Time Based on Fabric Composition
Sample Sensing Time (sec)
A 1.1
B 2.3
C 2.1
[0036] The composition of the fabric significantly influences the sensing time. Higher electroconductive fiber content and optimized yarn configurations contribute to quicker sensing times. For instance, Sample B, with a higher yarn count and optimized warp ratio, demonstrates the longest sensing time due to improved fluid interaction with the conductive layers.
[0037] The resistance sensor (106) is calibrated to detect subtle variations in resistance corresponding to different fluids, including water and urine. The system is engineered so that fluids do not need to reach specific areas where electrodes are located; rather, the entire surface acts as a sensing area. Following are some examples to demonstrate the system's flexibility, different fabric compositions and configurations that were tested:
[0038] Example 1:
• 75% carbon fiber, 25% acrylic fiber
• Yarn count: 150
• Warp-to-weft ratio: 1.4:1
• Yarn weave diameter: 0.89 mm
• Electroconductive sheet thickness: 0.25 mm
• Sensing time: 1.1 seconds
[0039] Example 2:
• 60% polythiophene, 40% polyester fiber
• Yarn count: 250
• Warp-to-weft ratio: 2:1
• Yarn weave diameter: 0.90 mm
• Electroconductive sheet thickness: 0.3 mm
• Sensing time: 2.3 seconds
[0040] Example 3:
• 50% carbon fiber, 50% rayon fiber
• Yarn count: 300
• Warp-to-weft ratio: 2.8:1
• Yarn weave diameter: 0.91 mm
• Electroconductive sheet thickness: 0.15 mm
• Sensing time: 2.1 seconds
[0041] In another aspect, the present invention discloses a method using a fluid sensing system (100) in a healthcare application. The method comprises of sensing a plurality of parameters from a top electroconductive sheet (102) and a bottom electroconductive sheet (104) in a fabric assembly (101) by a plurality of sensors (105); sending output signals from the plurality of sensors (105) to a microcontroller (107); processing of the signals by the microcontroller (107) to determine fluid leakage; activating an alarm (108) by the microcontroller (107) upon detection of fluid leakage; and sending notification to a user through a cloud-based mobile application (109) regarding detection of fluid leakage.
[0042] The present invention relates to an innovative fluid sensing system (100) suited for healthcare applications, ensuring real-time detection and alerting of fluid leakage, such as in neonatal care or fluid management systems. This system includes several interconnected components that work synergistically to monitor and detect any fluid seepage, ultimately improving response times and patient care.
[0043] The present invention optimizes fluid detection and monitor the fabric's condition in real-time. The system (100) is designed to sense fluid efficiently, providing timely alerts and ensuring a safe and hygienic environment for patients in healthcare settings.
[0044] Throughout the fluid detection process, plurality of sensors (105,106) measures key parameters such as fluid presence and the electrical conductivity of the fabric assembly. This sensor data is transmitted to the microcontroller (107). The microcontroller (105) receives and processes signals from the sensors (105,106), triggering the alarm (108) when fluid is detected. This system ensures efficient and automated management of fluid monitoring, improving patient care.
[0045] Using the fabric's electroconductive properties, the system (100) detects minute changes in electrical resistance, immediately generating alerts via the cloud-based mobile application (107). This application allows healthcare professionals or users to monitor the status of the fabric remotely, ensuring timely interventions.
[0046] Advantages of incorporation of the fluid sensing system (100) and method can be employed in multiple healthcare settings which are as follows:
• Neonatal Care: Incorporated into baby diapers or bed sheets for early detection of fluid leakage, preventing prolonged skin contact with moisture and reducing the risk of infection.
• Adult Diapers and Incontinence Products: Used in elderly care, providing early alerts for moisture detection, thus improving hygiene and comfort.
• Hospital Bedding and Patient Monitoring: Integrated into hospital bed sheets to continuously monitor moisture levels, enhancing patient care.
[0047] Although the present invention has been particularly described with reference to implementations discussed above, various changes, modifications and Substitutes can be made. Accordingly, it will be appreciated that in numerous instances some features of the invention can be employed without a corresponding use of other features. Further, variations can be made in the number and arrangement of components illustrated in the figures discussed above.
, Claims:I/We Claim:
1. A fluid sensing system (100) for healthcare applications, comprising of:
a. a fabric assembly (101) having a top electroconductive sheet (102), a middle divider sheet (103), and a bottom electroconductive sheet (104);
b. a plurality of sensors coupled to the top electroconductive sheet (102) and the bottom electroconductive sheet (103);
c. a microcontroller (107) connected to the plurality of sensors;
d. an alarm (108) connected to the microcontroller (107), wherein the microcontroller (107) is configured to process signals received from the plurality of sensors and trigger the alarm (108) when fluid is detected; and
e. a cloud-based mobile application (109) wirelessly connected to the microcontroller (107), wherein the application (109) receives alerts and sends notifications to a user.
2. The fluid sensing system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the top electroconductive sheet (102) and the bottom electroconductive sheet (104) are formed by combining electroconductive fibers in an amount of 50-80% and textile fibers in an amount of 50-20%, wherein the electroconductive fibers are selected from carbon fiber and polythiophene, and the textile fibers are selected from acrylic, linen, rayon, polyester, viscose, and nylon.
3. The fluid sensing system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the top electroconductive sheet (102) and the bottom electroconductive sheet (104) are woven with warp and weft yarns having a yarn count ranging between 120 to 320.
4. The fluid sensing system (100) as claimed in claim 3, wherein the top electroconductive sheet (102) and the bottom electroconductive sheet (104) having a warp-to-weft yarn ratio ranging between 1.4:1 to 2.8:1, and a yarn weave diameter ranging between 0.87 mm to 0.91 mm.
5. The fluid sensing system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the top electroconductive sheet (102) and the bottom electroconductive sheet (104) having a thickness ranging between 0.15 mm to 0.5 mm, and the middle divider sheet having a thickness ranging from 0.2 mm to 2.5 mm.
6. The fluid sensing system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the plurality of sensors includes an electric potential sensor (105) and a resistance sensor (106) for sensing electric potential and resistance variation respectively between the top electroconductive sheet (102) and a bottom electroconductive sheet (104).
7. A fluid sensing method for healthcare applications, wherein the method comprising steps of:
a. sensing a plurality of parameters from a top electroconductive sheet (102) and a bottom electroconductive sheet (104) in a fabric assembly (101) by a plurality of sensors;
b. sending output signals from the plurality of sensors to a microcontroller (107);
c. processing of the signals by the microcontroller (107) to determine fluid leakage;
d. activating an alarm (108) by the microcontroller (107) upon detection of fluid leakage; and
e. sending notification to a user through a cloud-based mobile application (109) regarding detection of fluid leakage.
8. The method as claimed in claim 7, wherein the plurality of sensors includes an electric potential sensor (105) and a resistance sensor (106) for sensing a plurality of parameters including electric potential and resistance variation respectively between the top electroconductive sheet (102) and a bottom electroconductive sheet (104).
9. The method as claimed in claim 7, wherein the sensing a plurality of parameters from the top electroconductive sheet (102) and the bottom electroconductive sheet (104) formed by combining electroconductive fibers in an amount of 50-80% and textile fibers in an amount of 50-20%, wherein the electroconductive fibers are selected from carbon fiber and polythiophene, and the textile fibers are selected from acrylic, linen, rayon, polyester, viscose, and nylon.
10. The method as claimed in claim 7, wherein the sensing a plurality of parameters from the top electroconductive sheet (102) and the bottom electroconductive sheet (104) woven with warp and weft yarns having a yarn count ranging between 120 to 320, a warp-to-weft yarn ratio ranging between 1.4:1 to 2.8:1, and a yarn weave diameter ranging between 0.87 mm to 0.91 mm, wherein the top electroconductive sheet (102) and the bottom electroconductive sheet (104) having a thickness ranging between 0.15 mm to 0.5 mm, and the middle divider sheet having a thickness ranging from 0.2 mm to 2.5 mm.

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