DEVICE FOR MEASURING VITAL PARAMETERS WITH ADVANTAGEOUS RADIATION GUIDANCE
20230018584 · 2023-01-19
Assignee
Inventors
Cpc classification
A61B5/02141
HUMAN NECESSITIES
A61B2562/0238
HUMAN NECESSITIES
A61B5/02416
HUMAN NECESSITIES
A61B5/7278
HUMAN NECESSITIES
International classification
Abstract
The present invention relates to a positioning and exposure device (1) for the defined arrangement on at least one body part (2, 3) of a living being (4) and for exposing the body part (2, 3) to radiation for determining at least one vital parameter of the living being (4). The positioning and exposure device (1) here comprises at least: a guiding and support structure (6) for delimiting an examination area (8), wherein the body part (2) can be positioned during exposure in the examination area (8), wherein the guiding and support structure (6) in a section (10) bounding the examination area (8) forms at least one radiation input area (12), wherein radiation can be introduced through the radiation input area (12) into the examination area (8) and wherein the guiding and support structure (6) forms a radiation exit area (16) in a further portion (14) delimiting the examination area (8), wherein at least part of the radiation which can be introduced through the radiation input area (12) into the examination area (8) can be guided out of the examination area (8) through the radiation exit area (16), and wherein a first elongate optical guide (18) is arranged in the path (20) of the radiation at least before entry into the examination area (8), wherein the first optical guide (18) is curved at least in sections for at least one deflection of the path (20) of the radiation which can be introduced into the first optical guide (18).
Claims
1. A positioning and exposure device (1) for the defined arrangement on at least one body part (2, 3) of a living being (4) and for exposing the body part (2, 3) to radiation for determining at least one vital parameter of the living being (4), comprising at least: a guiding and support structure (6) for delimiting an examination area (8), wherein the body part (2) can be positioned during exposure in the examination area (8), wherein the guiding and support structure (6) in a section (10) delimiting the examination area (8) forms at least one radiation entry area (12), wherein radiation can be introduced through the radiation entry area (12) into the examination area (8), and wherein the guiding and support structure (6) forms a radiation exit area (16) in a further section (14) delimiting the examination area (8), wherein at least part of the radiation which can be introduced through the radiation entry area (12) into the examination area (8) can be guided out of the examination area (8) through the radiation exit area (16), and wherein a first elongate optical guide (18) is arranged in the beam path (20) of the radiation at least upstream of the examination area (8), wherein the first optical guide (18) is curved at least in a section thereof for at least one deflection of the beam path (20) of the radiation which can be introduced into the first optical guide (18), and/or a second elongate optical guide (22) is arranged in the beam path (20) of the radiation, at least downstream of the radiation exit region (16), wherein the second optical guide (22) is curved at least in a section thereof for at least one deflection of the beam path (20) of the radiation which can be introduced into the second optical guide (22).
2. The positioning and exposure device (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the first optical guide (18) comprises a first entry surface (24), a first main body (26), and a first exit surface (28), wherein the first main body (26) and the first exit surface (28) are oriented such that a main outward radiation direction (30) out of the first optical guide (18) is defined, and the second optical guide (22) comprises a second entry surface (32), a second main body (34), and a second exit surface (36), wherein the second main body (34) and the second entry surface (32) are oriented such that a main inward radiation direction (38) into the second optical guide (22) is defined, wherein the main outward radiation direction (30) and the main inward radiation direction (38) are oriented to one another at an angle of between 65° and 115°, in particular at an angle of between 75° and 105° or at an angle of between 85° and 95°.
3. A positioning and exposure device (1) for the defined arrangement on at least one body part (2, 3) of a living being (4) and for exposing the body part (2, 3) to radiation for determining at least one vital parameter of the living being (4), comprising at least: a guiding and support structure (6) for delimiting an examination area (8), wherein the body part (2, 3) can be positioned during exposure in the examination area (8), wherein the guiding and support structure (6) in a section (10) delimiting the examination area (8) forms at least one radiation entry area (12), wherein radiation can be introduced through the radiation entry area (12) into the examination area (8), and wherein the guiding and support structure (6) forms a radiation exit area (16) in a further section (14) delimiting the examination area (8), wherein radiation that can be introduced into the examination area (8) through the radiation entry area (12) can be guided out of the examination area (8) through the radiation exit area (16), the first optical guide (18) comprises a first entry surface (24), a first main body (26), and a first exit surface (28), wherein the first main body (26) and the first exit surface (28) are oriented such that a main outward radiation direction (30) out of the first optical guide (18) is defined, and wherein the second optical guide (22) comprises a second entry surface (32), a second main body (34), and a second exit surface (36), wherein the second main body (34) and the second entry surface (32) are oriented in such a way that a main inward radiation direction (38) into the second optical guide (22) is defined, wherein the main outward radiation direction (30) and the main inward radiation direction (38) are oriented to one another at an angle of between 65° and 115°, in particular at an angle of between 75° and 105° or at an angle of between 85° and 95°.
4. The positioning and exposure device (1) according to claim 3, characterized in that a first elongate optical guide (18) is arranged in the beam path (20) of the radiation at least upstream of the examination area (8), wherein the first optical guide (18) is curved at least in a section thereof for at least one deflection of the beam path (20) of the radiation which can be introduced into the first optical guide (18), and/or a second elongate optical guide (22) is arranged in the beam path (20) of the radiation at least downstream of the radiation exit region (16), wherein the second optical guide (22) is curved at least in a section thereof for at least one deflection of the beam path (20) of the radiation which can be introduced into the second optical guide (22).
5. The positioning and exposure device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least the first optical guide (18) and/or the second optical guide (229) is/are fiber-free, and wherein due to the curvature of the first optical guide (18), a first portion (40) of the beam path (20) is oriented relative to a second portion (42) of the beam path (20) at an angle of more than 5°, in particular of more than 10° or more than 15°, relative to a second portion (42) of the beam path (20), in particular in a range between 5° and 85° and preferably in a range between 20° and 75° or in a range between 30° and 60°, wherein the first portion (40) of the beam path (20) extends in the course of the beam path (20) at least immediately upstream of a first deflection region (44), and the second portion (42) of the beam path (20) in the course of the beam path (20) extends at least immediately downstream of the first deflection region (44), wherein the deflection region (44) is designed as a component of the first optical guide (18), in particular as a surface or coating, and/or wherein due to the curvature of the second optical guide (22), a third portion (46) of the beam path (20) is oriented relative to a fourth portion (48) of the beam path (20) at an angle of more than 5°, in particular of more than 10° or more than 15°, in particular in a range between 5° and 85° and preferably in a range between 20° and 75° or in a range between 30° and 60°, wherein with the third portion (46) of the beam path (20) extends in the course of the beam path (20) at least immediately upstream a second deflection region (50), and wherein the fourth portion (48) of the beam path (20) extends in the course of the beam path (20) at least immediately downstream of the second deflection region (22), wherein the second deflection region (50) is designed as a component of the second optical guide (22), in particular as a surface or coating.
6. The positioning and exposure device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first optical guide (18) has portions with differently sized cross-sectional areas in its longitudinal direction, wherein the cross-sectional area in the region of the first entry surface (24) is larger than in a central portion formed between the first entry surface (24) and the first exit surface (28), the first optical guide (18) preferably forms a tapering portion (54) extending from the first entry surface (24) in the direction of the first exit surface (28), wherein the sectional surface decreases, in particular continuously, starting from the first entry surface (24), in the direction of the first exit surface (28).
7. The positioning and exposure device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least a first surface portion (44) of the first optical guide (18) and/or at least a second surface portion (50) of the second optical guide (22) is matted, structured and/or coated.
8. The positioning and exposure device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first optical guide (18) and the second optical guide (22) differ in at least one of the following parameters: Shape, in particular curvature, volume, mass, length, and/or material, and/or the optical guide (18) has a converging lens (60), wherein the converging lens (60) forms the first entry surface (24), and/or two optical guide pairs (62, 64) are provided, wherein the first optical guide pair (62) is formed by the first optical guide (18) and the second optical guide (22) and the second optical guide pair (64) is formed by a further first optical guide (19) and the second optical guide (22) or a further second optical guide (23), wherein the first optical guide pair (62) and the second optical guide pair (64) are arranged such that different body parts (2, 3), in particular fingers, are alternately exposed to radiation.
9. The positioning and exposure device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a holder device (70) is provided, wherein the holder device (70) is designed for the defined arrangement of at least two optical guide pairs (62, 64), wherein the holder device (70) comprises a functional material, in particular pigment, wherein the functional material absorbs radiation in the wavelength range of at least 500 nm to 1040 nm, and/or wherein the holder device (70) encloses the optical guides (18, 22, 19, 23), at least in a section thereof, on at least two sides, at least in sections, preferably largely, in particular more than 50% (based on the surface area of the specific optical guide) or more than 75% or more than 90% or completely, and/or the second optical guide (22) and the further second optical guide (23) are spaced closer to one another than the second optical guide (22) is spaced from the further first optical guide (19) or the first optical guide (18) is spaced from the further second optical guide (23), and/or the optical guides (18, 22, 19,23) are arranged in the holder device (70) such that the axial center of the individual optical guides (18, 22, 19,23) extend in the same plane or in planes which are spaced apart by less than 20 mm, in particular less than 10 mm or less than 5 mm or less than 1 mm, and/or the holder device (70) comprises a radiation barrier (72), in particular a wall, between the second light device (22) and the further second light device (22), wherein the radiation barrier (72) prevents the further second optical guide (23) from being acted upon by leakage radiation which escapes from the first optical guide (18) or prevents the second optical guide (22) from being acted upon by leakage radiation which escapes from the further first optical guide (19).
10. The positioning and exposure device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least a first radiation source (76) and a first detection device (78), in particular a radiation detection device, are arranged in a supply device (74), wherein the radiation source (76) is arranged upstream of the first entry surface (24) in the beam path (20) of the radiation that can be generated by the first radiation source (76), and wherein the detection device (78) is arranged downstream of the second exit surface (36) in the beam path (20) of the radiation that can be generated by the first radiation source (76).
11. The positioning and exposure device (1) according to claim 9, characterized in that a coupling device (80) is provided for detachably coupling the guiding and support structure (6) and the supply device (74) at least in a form fit and/or at least in a friction contact, wherein at least the first optical guide (18) is arranged on the guiding and support structure (6) in a decoupled state.
12. The positioning and exposure device (1) according to claim 9, characterized in that a coupling device (80) is provided for detachably coupling the guiding and support structure (6) and the supply device (74) at least in a form fit and/or at least in a friction contact, wherein at least the first optical guide (18) is arranged at the supply device (74) in a decoupled state.
13. The positioning and exposure device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a force application device (82) is provided for exposing the body part to pressure, wherein the force application device (82) is connected to and supported by the guiding and support structure (6).
14. A supply device (74) for providing radiation, in particular for determining the vital parameters of a living being, wherein the supply device (74) comprises at least: A first radiation source (76) and a first detection device (78), in particular a radiation detection device, a first optical guide and a second optical guide, wherein the first optical guide (18) is arranged such that the radiation from the radiation source (76) can be introduced into the first optical guide (18) through a first entry surface (24) of the first optical guide (18), wherein the radiation can be guided out of the first optical guide (18) through a first exit surface (28) of the first optical guide (18), wherein the second optical guide (22) is arranged such that radiation that has exited the first optical guide (18) through the first exit surface (28) of the first optical guide (18) can be introduced into the second optical guide (22) through a second entry surface (32) of the second optical guide (22), wherein the radiation introduced into the second optical guide (22) through the second entry surface (32) can be guided out of the second optical guide (22) through a second exit surface (36) and can be conducted to the detection device (78), wherein the first optical guide (18) and/or the second optical guide (22) is/are curved, and/or wherein a first main body (26) extends between the first entry surface (24) and the first exit surface (28), wherein the first main body (26) and the first exit surface (28) are oriented such that a main outward radiation direction (30) is defined, and wherein a second main body (34) extends between the second entry surface (32) and the second exit surface (36), wherein the second main body (34) and the second exit surface (36) are oriented such that a main inward radiation direction (38) is defined, wherein the main outward radiation direction (30) and the inward direction of radiation (38) are oriented to one another at an angle of between 65° and 115°, in particular at an angle of between 75° and 105° or at an angle of between 85° and 95°.
15. A measuring device (84) for determining at least one vital parameter of a living being (4), in particular for continuously determining the intra-arterial blood pressure on at least one finger (2, 3) of a hand, comprising at least: a supply device (74) for supplying at least one radiation source (76) for providing radiation and for providing at least one detection device (78), and a positioning and exposure device (1) for the defined arrangement on at least one body part (2, 3) of a living being (4) and for exposing the body part (2, 3) to the radiation, wherein the positioning and exposure device (1) comprises a guiding and support structure (6) for delimiting an examination area (8), wherein the supply device (74) and the positioning and exposure device (1) can be physically coupled to and/or decoupled from one another, preferably without the use of tools and/or non-destructively, and a first optical guide and a second optical guide, wherein the first optical guide (18) is arranged such that the radiation from the radiation source (76) can be introduced into the first optical guide (18) through a first entry surface (24) of the first optical guide (18), wherein the radiation can be guided out of the first optical guide (18) through a first exit surface (28) of the first optical guide (18), wherein the second optical guide (22) is arranged such that radiation that has exited the first optical guide (18) through the first exit surface (28) of the first optical guide (18) can be introduced into the second optical guide (22) through a second entry surface (32) of the second optical guide (22), wherein the radiation introduced into the second optical guide (22) through the second entry surface (32) can be guided out of the second optical guide (22) through a second exit surface (36) and can be conducted to the detection device (78), wherein the first optical guide (18) and/or the second optical guide (22) is/are curved, and/or wherein a first main body (26) extends between the first entry surface (24) and the first exit surface (28), wherein the first main body (26) and the first exit surface (28) are oriented such that a main outward radiation direction (30) is defined, and wherein a second main body (34) extends between the second entry surface (32) and the second exit surface (36), wherein the second main body (34) and the second exit surface (36) are oriented such that a main inward radiation direction (38) is defined, wherein the main outward radiation direction (30) and the inward direction of radiation (38) are oriented to one another at an angle of between 65° and 115°, in particular at an angle of between 75° and 105° or at an angle of between 85° and 95°.
16. A method for exposing living beings (4) to radiation, in particular for determining at least one vital parameter, comprising at least the steps of: providing a measuring device (84) for determining at least one vital parameter of a living being (4), in particular for continuously determining the intra-arterial blood pressure on at least one finger (2, 3) of a hand, comprising at least one supply device (74) for providing at least one radiation source (76) for supplying radiation and for providing at least one detection device (78), and a positioning and exposure device (1) for the defined arrangement on at least one body part (2, 3) of a living being (4) and for exposing the body part (2, 3) to the radiation, wherein the positioning and exposure device (1) comprises a guiding and support structure (6) for delimiting an examination area (8), wherein the supply device (74) and the positioning and exposure device (1) can be physically coupled to and/or decoupled from one another, preferably without the use of tools and/or non-destructively, and a first optical guide (18) and a second optical guide (22), wherein the first optical guide (18) is arranged such that the radiation from the radiation source (76) can be introduced into the first optical guide (18) through a first entry surface (24) of the first optical guide (18), wherein the radiation can be guided out of the first optical guide (18) through a first exit surface (28) of the first optical guide (18), wherein the second optical guide (22) is arranged such that at least part of the radiation that has exited the first optical guide (18) through the first exit surface (28) of the first optical guide (18) can be introduced into the second optical guide (22) through a second entry surface (32) of the second optical guide (22), wherein the radiation introduced into the second optical guide (22) through the second entry surface (32) can be guided out of the second optical guide (22) through a second exit surface (36) and can be conducted to the detection device (78), wherein the first optical guide (18) and/or the second optical guide (22) is/are curved, and/or wherein a first main body (26) extends between the first entry surface (24) and the first exit surface (28), wherein the first main body (26) and the first exit surface (28) are oriented such that a main outward radiation direction (30) is defined, and wherein a second main body (34) extends between the second entry surface (32) and the second exit surface (36), wherein the second main body (34) and the second exit surface (36) are oriented such that a main inward radiation direction (38) is defined, wherein the main outward radiation direction (30) and the main inward radiation direction (38) are oriented to one another at an angle of between 65° and 115°, in particular at an angle of between 75° and 105° or at an angle of between 85° and 95°, emitting radiation by the radiation source (76), directing the radiation to an examination area (8), wherein the radiation is guided through the first optical guide (18), introducing radiation from the examination area (8) into the second optical guide (22), conducting the radiation introduced into the second optical guide (22) to the detection device (78).
17. A method for exposing living beings (4) to radiation, in particular for determining at least one vital parameter, comprising at least the steps of: providing a positioning and exposure device (1), wherein the positioning and exposure device (1) has a guiding and support structure (6) for delimiting an examination area (8), wherein the body part (2, 3) is positioned in the examination area (8), wherein the guiding and support structure (6) forms at least one radiation entry area (12) in a section (10) delimiting the examination area (8), wherein the guiding and support structure (6) forms a radiation exit area (16) in a further section (14) delimiting the examination area (8), and wherein a first elongate optical guide (18) is arranged in the beam path (20) of the radiation at least upstream of the examination area (8), wherein the first optical guide (18) is curved at least in sections for at least one deflection of the beam path (20) of the radiation which can be introduced into the first optical guide (18), and/or wherein a second elongate optical guide (22) is arranged in the beam path (20) of the radiation, at least downstream of the radiation exit region (16), wherein the second optical guide (22) is curved at least in sections for at least one deflection of the beam path (20) of the radiation which can be introduced into the optical guide (22), Arranging in a defined manner at least one body part (2, 3) of a living being (4) on or in the positioning and exposure device (1), and, exposing the body part (2, 3) to radiation, wherein radiation is introduced through the first radiation entry area (12) and out of the first optical guide (18) into the examination area (8) for exposing the body part (23), and, wherein at least part of the radiation introduced into the examination area (8) through the radiation entry area (12) is conducted through the radiation exit area (16) and into the second optical guide (22), wherein the radiation introduced into the second optical guide (22) is conducted from the second optical guide (22) in a defined manner.
18. A method for exposing living beings (4) to radiation, in particular for determining at least one vital parameter, comprising at least the steps of: providing a positioning and exposure device (1), wherein the positioning and exposure device (1) has a guiding and support structure (6) for delimiting an examination area (8), wherein the body part (2, 3) is positioned in the examination area (8), wherein the guiding and support structure (6) forms at least one radiation entry area (12) in a section (10) delimiting the examination area (8), wherein the guiding and support structure (6) forms a radiation exit area (16) in a further section (14) delimiting the examination area (8), and, wherein a first elongate optical guide (18) is arranged in the beam path (20) of the radiation at least upstream of the examination area (8), wherein the first optical guide (18) has a first entry surface (24), a first main body (26), and a first exit surface (28), wherein the first main body (26) and the first exit surface (28) are oriented such that a main outward radiation direction (30) is defined, and, wherein a second elongate optical guide (22) is arranged in the beam path (22) of the radiation at least downstream of the radiation exit region (16), wherein the second optical guide (22) has a second entry surface (32), a second main body (34), and a second exit surface (36), wherein the second main body (34) and the second entry surface (32) are oriented such that a main inward radiation direction (38) is defined, wherein the main outward radiation direction and the main inward radiation direction are oriented relative to one another (at an angle of between 65° and 115°, in particular at an angle of between 75° and 105° or at an angle of between 85° and 95°, Arranging in a defined manner at least one body part (2, 3) of a living being (4) on the positioning and exposure device (1), and, Exposing the body part (2, 3) to radiation, wherein radiation is introduced through the first radiation entry area (12) and out of the first optical guide (18) into the examination area (8) for exposing the body part (2, 3), and, wherein at least part of the radiation introduced into the examination area (8) through the radiation entry area (12) is conducted through the radiation exit area (16) and into the second optical guide (22), wherein the radiation introduced into the second optical guide (22) is conducted from the second optical guide (22) in a defined manner.
19. A method for providing radiation, in particular for determining at least one vital parameter, at least comprising the steps of: providing a supply device (74) for supplying radiation and a functional fluid, wherein the supply device has at least: a radiation source (76) and a detection device (78), in particular a radiation detection device, a first optical guide (18) and a second optical guide (22), wherein the first optical guide (18) is arranged such that the radiation from the radiation source (76) can be introduced into the first optical guide (18) through a first entry surface (24) of the first optical guide (18), wherein the radiation can be guided out of the first optical guide (18) through a first exit surface (28) of the first optical guide (18), wherein the second optical guide (22) is arranged such that radiation that has exited the first optical guide (18) through the first exit surface (28) of the first optical guide (18) can be introduced into the second optical guide (22) through a second entry surface (32) of the second optical guide (22), wherein the radiation introduced into the second optical guide (22) through the second entry surface (32) can be guided out of the second optical guide (22) through a second exit surface (36) and can be conducted to the detection device (78), wherein the first optical guide (18) and/or the second optical guide (22) is/are curved, and/or wherein a first main body (26) extends between the first entry surface (24) and the first exit surface (28), wherein the first main body (26) and the first exit surface (28) are oriented such that a main outward radiation direction (30) is defined, and wherein a second main body (34) extends between the second entry surface (32) and the second exit surface (36), wherein the second main body (34) and the second exit surface (36) are oriented such that a main inward radiation direction (38) is defined, wherein the main outward radiation direction (30) and the inward direction of radiation (38) are oriented to one another at an angle of between 65° and 115°, in particular at an angle of between 75° and 105° or at an angle of between 85° and 95°. emitting radiation by the radiation source (76) and coupling of the radiation into the first optical guide (18) and and, detecting radiation by means of the detection device (78), wherein portions of the radiation emitted by the radiation source (76) and coupled into the first optical guide (18) are conducted to the detection device (78) through the second optical guide (22).
20. A set, comprising at least a first positioning and exposure device according to any one of claims 1 to 9 and at least a second positioning and exposure device according one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the shape and/or orientations of the optical guides of the first positioning and exposure device is different from the shape and/or orientations of the optical guides of the second positioning and exposure device.
Description
DESCRIPTION
[0072] Functional material: Pigment: Which one and in what concentration (%/Vol or %/kg)
[0073] The holder device encloses the optical guides, in particular partially or completely, only in the region between the entry surface and the exit surface.
[0074] Furthermore, the present invention can relate to a positioning and exposure device for defined arrangement on at least one body part of a living being and for exposing the body part to radiation and pressure, in particular for determining at least one vital parameter of the living being. The positioning and exposure device preferably has at least:
[0075] A guiding and support structure for delimiting an examination area and preferably for holding at least one force application device, wherein the body part can be positioned in the examination area during exposure, in particular exposure to radiation and/or pressure. The force application device is preferably connected to the guiding and support structure, wherein the body part can preferably be exposed to pressure by means of the force application device.
[0076] The guiding and support structure in a section delimiting the examination area preferably forms at least one radiation entry area, wherein radiation can be introduced through the radiation entry area into the examination area.
[0077] Additionally or alternatively, the guiding and support structure forms a radiation exit area in a further section delimiting the examination area. Radiation that can be introduced or guided into the examination area through the radiation entry area can preferably be guided out of the examination area through the radiation exit area.
[0078] A holder device is particularly preferably provided or is a component of the positioning and exposure device. The holder device is preferably embodied for the defined arrangement of at least two optical guide pairs. The holder device preferably has a functional material, in particular pigment, wherein the functional material absorbs radiation in the wavelength range of at least 500 nm to 1040 nm, in particular in the range between 600 nm and 960 nm or in the range between 600 nm and 800 nm, in particular in the range between 630 nm and 700 nm, or in the range between 800 nm and 1000 nm, in particular in the range between 820 nm and 960 nm, in particular in the range between 840 nm and 940 nm, in particular in the range between 870 nm and 910 nm, in particular in the range between 885 nm and 895 nm, in particular essentially or exactly 890 nm. Alternatively, the functional material can absorb radiation in a number of wavelength ranges, in particular wavelength ranges that are spaced apart from one another.
[0079] The holder device preferably encloses the optical guide(s), at least in sections, on at least two sides. The holder device preferably encloses the optical guide or guides, at least in sections, preferably largely, in particular more than 50% (based on the surface area of the specific optical guide, or more than 75% or more than 90% or completely (based on the surface area of the specific optical guide).
[0080] Additionally or alternatively, the second optical guide and the further second optical guide are spaced closer to one another than the second optical guide is spaced from the further first optical guide or the first optical guide is spaced from the further second optical guide.
[0081] The optical guides are preferably arranged in the holder device such that the axial center of the individual optical guides extend in the same plane or in planes, which are spaced apart by less than 20 mm, in particular less than 10 mm or less than 5 mm or less than 1 mm.
[0082] At least one optical guide is preferred and a plurality of or all optical guides are preferably arranged or embodied in a fixed or detachable manner and/or in one piece or in multiple pieces in the holder device or on the holder device.
[0083] The holder device preferably forms a radiation barrier, in particular a wall, between the second light device and the further second optical guide, wherein the radiation barrier prevents the further second optical guide from being acted upon by leakage radiation which escapes from the first optical guide or prevents the second optical guide from being acted upon by leakage radiation which escapes from the further first optical guide.
[0084] Furthermore, the present invention can relate to a supply device for supplying radiation and preferably a functional fluid, in particular for determining vital parameters, in particular for coupling to a positioning and exposure device described herein, in particular a positioning and exposure device according to claim 1. The supply device preferably has at least:
[0085] A first radiation source and a first detection device, in particular a radiation detection device, and a holder device.
[0086] The holder device is preferably designed for the defined arrangement of at least two optical guide pairs,
[0087] The holder device is preferably designed for the defined arrangement of at least two optical guide pairs. The holder device preferably has a functional material, in particular pigment, wherein the functional material absorbs radiation in the wavelength range of at least 500 nm to 1040 nm, in particular in the range between 600 nm and 960 nm or in the range between 600 nm and 800 nm, in particular in the range between 630 nm and 700 nm, or in the range between 800 nm and 1000 nm, in particular in the range between 820 nm and 960 nm, in particular in the range between 840 nm and 940 nm, in particular in the range between 870 nm and 910 nm, in particular in the range between 885 nm and 895 nm, in particular essentially or exactly 890 nm. Alternatively, the functional material can absorb radiation in a number of wavelength ranges, in particular wavelength ranges that are spaced apart from one another.
[0088] The holder device preferably encloses the optical guide or guides, at least in sections, on at least two sides. The holder device preferably encloses the optical guide or guides, at least in sections, preferably largely, in particular more than 50% (based on the surface area of the specific optical guide), or more than 75% or more than 90% or completely (based on the surface area of the specific optical guide).
[0089] Additionally or alternatively, the second optical guide and the further second optical guide are spaced closer to one another than the second optical guide is spaced from the further first optical guide or the first optical guide is spaced from the further second optical guide.
[0090] The optical guides are preferably arranged in the holder device such that the axial center of the individual optical guides extend in the same plane or in planes, which are spaced apart by less than 20 mm, in particular less than 10 mm or less than 5 mm or less than 1 mm.
[0091] At least one optical guide is preferred and a plurality of or all optical guides are preferably arranged or embodied in a fixed or detachable manner and/or in one piece or in multiple pieces in the holder device or on the holder device.
[0092] The holder device preferably forms a radiation barrier, in particular a wall, between the second light device and the further second optical guide, wherein the radiation barrier prevents the further second optical guide from being acted upon by leakage radiation which escapes from the first optical guide or prevents the second optical guide from being acted upon by leakage radiation which escapes from the further first optical guide.
[0093] In addition, the supply device can supply or have or comprise a functional fluid supply device. The functional fluid supply device is preferably provided for supplying a fluid to a force application device, in particular the positioning and/or supply device. The supply device preferably forms a housing or has a housing, wherein the functional fluid supply device is preferably arranged in the interior of the housing. The radiation source and/or the detection device, in particular the first detection device and/or the second detection device, are additionally or alternatively preferably arranged in the housing of the supply device.
[0094] Furthermore, the present invention can relate to a measuring device for determining at least one vital parameter of a living being, in particular for continuously determining the intra-arterial blood pressure on at least one finger of a hand. The measuring device preferably has at least:
[0095] A supply device for supplying at least one radiation source for supplying radiation and particularly preferably for supplying a functional fluid supply device, in particular a functional fluid pump, and for supplying at least one detection device and one positioning and exposure device for the defined arrangement on at least one body part of a living being and for exposing the body part to the radiation and preferably pressure, wherein the positioning and exposure device has a guiding and support structure for delimiting an examination area and wherein the guiding and support structure preferably holds at least one force application device.
[0096] The supply device and the positioning and exposure device can preferably be physically coupled to and/or decoupled from one another without the use of tools and/or non-destructively.
[0097] The measuring device preferably has a holder device and at least one optical guide pair, the optical guide pair having a first optical guide and a second optical guide. The first optical guide preferably has a first entry surface, a first main body adjoining the first entry surface, and a first exit surface adjoining the first main body. Additionally or alternatively, the second optical guide preferably has a second entry surface, a second main body adjoining the second entry surface, and a second exit surface adjoining the second main body.
[0098] The holder device is preferably provided for the in particular defined arrangement of the at least one optical guide pair and preferably at least or exactly two optical guide pairs.
[0099] The holder device preferably positions the first entry surface adjacent to the radiation source and/or the first exit surface in front of the examination area or adjacent to the examination area. Additionally or alternatively, the holder device positions the second entry surface in front of the examination area or adjacent to the examination area and/or the second exit surface adjacent to the detection device.
[0100] The holder device is preferably embodied for the defined arrangement of at least two optical guide pairs. The holder device preferably has a functional material, in particular pigment, wherein the functional material absorbs radiation in the wavelength range of at least 500 nm to 1040 nm, in particular in the range between 600 nm and 960 nm or in the range between 600 nm and 800 nm, in particular in the range between 630 nm and 700 nm, or in the range between 800 nm and 1000 nm, in particular in the range between 820 nm and 960 nm, in particular in the range between 840 nm and 940 nm, in particular in the range between 870 nm and 910 nm, in particular in the range between 885 nm and 895 nm, in particular essentially or exactly 890 nm. Alternatively, the functional material can absorb radiation in a number of wavelength ranges, in particular wavelength ranges that are spaced apart from one another.
[0101] The holder device preferably encloses the optical guide(s), at least in sections, on at least two sides. The holder device preferably encloses the optical guide(s), at least in sections, preferably largely, in particular more than 50% (based on the surface area of the specific optical guide), or more than 75% or more than 90% or completely (based on the surface area of the specific optical guide).
[0102] Additionally or alternatively, the second optical guide and the further second optical guide are spaced closer to one another than the second optical guide is spaced from the further first optical guide or the first optical guide is spaced from the further second optical guide.
[0103] The optical guides are preferably arranged in the holder device such that the axial center of the individual optical guides extend in the same plane or in planes, which are spaced apart by less than 20 mm, in particular less than 10 mm or less than 5 mm or less than 1 mm.
[0104] At least one optical guide is preferred and a plurality of or all optical guides are preferably arranged or embodied in a fixed or detachable manner and/or in one piece or in multiple pieces in the holder device or on the holder device.
[0105] The holder device preferably forms a radiation barrier, in particular a wall, between the second light device and the further second optical guide, wherein the radiation barrier prevents the further second optical guide from being acted upon by leakage radiation which escapes from the first optical guide or prevents the second optical guide from being acted upon by leakage radiation which escapes from the further first optical guide.
[0106] According to one further preferred embodiment of the present invention, at least a first radiation source and a first detection device, in particular a radiation detection device, are arranged in a supply device.
[0107] The radiation source is preferably arranged upstream of the first entry surface in the beam path of the radiation that can be generated by the first radiation source, and the detection device is preferably arranged downstream of the second exit surface in the beam path of the radiation that can be generated by the first radiation source.
[0108] Within the scope of the present invention, the supply device can alternatively be referred to as a base part. Within the scope of the present invention, the positioning and exposure device, in particular the guiding and support structure, can alternatively be referred to as a cuff part.
[0109] According to one further preferred embodiment of the present invention, a coupling device is provided for detachably coupling the guiding and support structure and the supply device at least in a positive fit and/or at least in a non-positive fit. At least the first optical guide and/or the second optical guide and/or a further first optical guide and/or a further second optical guide are preferably arranged on the guiding and support structure in a decoupled state.
[0110] According to one further preferred embodiment of the present invention, a coupling device is provided for detachably coupling the guiding and support structure and the supply device at least in a positive fit and/or at least in a non-positive fit. At least the first optical guide and/or the second optical guide and/or a further first optical guide and/or a further second optical guide are preferably arranged on the supply device in a decoupled state.
[0111] It is preferably possible to be able to decouple and/or couple the guiding and support structure and the supply device without tools and/or non-destructively, in particular repeatedly.
[0112] The positioning and exposure device and/or the supply device preferably has a pressure control system for controlling a fluid pressure of the functional fluid. The pressure control system for controlling a fluid pressure is preferably embodied or arranged in or on the guiding and support structure and/or in or on the supply device. In terms of the present invention, a gas, in particular air, or a liquid, in particular water or deionized water, is the functional fluid.
[0113] The above object is also achieved using a supply device according to claim 14. This supply device preferably supplies radiation and preferably supplies a functional fluid, in particular for determining vital parameters, in particular for coupling to a positioning and exposure device described herein, in particular a positioning and exposure device according to claim 1. The supply device preferably has at least: a first radiation source and a first detection device, in particular a radiation detection device, a first optical guide, and/or a second optical guide. The first optical guide is preferably arranged such that the radiation from the radiation source can be introduced into the first optical guide through a first entry surface of the first optical guide. wherein the radiation can be guided out of the first optical guide through a first exit surface of the first optical guide. The second optical guide is preferably arranged such that radiation that has exited from the first optical guide through the first exit surface of the first optical guide can be introduced into the second optical guide through a second entry surface of the second optical guide. wherein the radiation introduced into the second optical guide through the second entry surface can be guided out of the second optical guide through a second exit surface and can be conducted to the detection device. The first optical guide and/or the second optical guide is/are preferably curved.
[0114] Additionally or alternatively, a first main body extends between the first entry surface and the first exit surface, wherein the first main body and the first exit surface are oriented such that a main outward radiation direction is defined, and wherein a second main body extends between the second entry surface and the second exit surface, wherein the second main body and the second exit surface are oriented such that a main inward radiation direction is defined, wherein the main outward radiation direction and the main inward radiation direction are oriented relative to one another at an angle between 65° and 115°, in particular at an angle between 75° and 105° or at an angle between 85° and 95°.
[0115] In addition, the supply device can supply or have or comprise a functional fluid supply device. The functional fluid supply device is preferably provided for supplying a fluid to a force application device, in particular the positioning and/or supply device. The supply device preferably forms a housing or has a housing, wherein the functional fluid supply device is preferably arranged in the interior of the housing. The radiation source and/or the detection device, in particular the first detection device and/or the second detection device, are additionally or alternatively preferably arranged in the housing of the supply device.
[0116] The functional fluid supply device is preferably embodied as a valve device which regulates, in particular enables, limits, or prevents, the forwarding or further flow of the functional fluid, which is preferably supplied via a supply line. The functional fluid is preferably supplied via the supply line at a pressure that is higher than the ambient pressure.
[0117] Furthermore, the present invention can relate to a measuring device for determining at least one vital parameter of a living being, in particular for continuously determining the intra-arterial blood pressure on at least one finger of a hand. This measuring device preferably has at least:
[0118] One supply device for supplying at least one radiation source for supplying radiation and preferably for supplying a functional fluid supply device, in particular a functional fluid pump, and for supplying at least one detection device, and a positioning and exposure device for the defined arrangement on at least one body part of a living being and for exposing the body part to the radiation and preferably, wherein the positioning and exposure device comprises a guiding and support structure for delimiting an examination area and preferably for holding at least one force application device.
[0119] The supply device and the positioning and exposure device can preferably be physically coupled to and/or decoupled from one another without the use of tools and/or non-destructively.
[0120] Furthermore, the measuring device preferably has a first optical guide and a second optical guide and particularly preferably has a further first optical guide and a further second optical guide.
[0121] The first optical guide is preferably arranged such that the radiation from the radiation source can be introduced into the first optical guide through a first entry surface of the first optical guide, wherein the radiation can be guided out of the first optical guide through a first exit surface of the first optical guide. Additionally or alternatively, the second optical guide is arranged such that radiation that has exited the first optical guide through the first exit surface of the first optical guide can be introduced into the second optical guide through a second entry surface of the second optical guide, wherein the radiation introduced into the second optical guide through the second entry surface can be guided out of the second optical guide through a second exit surface and can be conducted to the detection device. The first optical guide and/or the second optical guide is/are preferably curved. Additionally or alternatively, a first main body extends between the first entry surface and the first exit surface, wherein the first main body and the first exit surface are oriented such that a main outward radiation direction is defined, and wherein a second main body extends between the second entry surface and the second exit surface, wherein the second main body and the second exit surface are oriented such that a main inward radiation direction is defined, wherein the main outward radiation direction and the main inward radiation direction are oriented relative to one another at an angle between 65° and 115°, in particular at an angle between 75° and 105° or at an angle between 85° and 95°.
[0122] A coupling device is preferably provided for at least detachably coupling the positioning and exposure device, in particular the guiding and support structure, and the supply device in a positive fit and/or in at least a force fit, wherein at least the first optical guide is arranged on the positioning and exposure device in a decoupled state. Alternatively, at least the first optical guide is arranged on the supply device in a decoupled state. Alternatively, at least the first optical guide is arranged, in a decoupled and/or coupled state, on a holder device and/or is arranged physically separated from the supply device and the positioning and exposure device.
[0123] One or more of the aforementioned embodiments can additionally or alternatively have the features in the following.
[0124] According to one further preferred embodiment of the present invention, there is no electrical line connection between the positioning and exposure device and the supply device. However, the positioning and exposure device can have an electronic component for wireless identification of the positioning and exposure device, for example an RFID tag, so that it can be ensured by means of an associated query element, which is preferably arranged in the supply device, that only suitable positioning and exposure devices are used in operation. Likewise, a component for identifying the positioning and exposure device can advantageously prevent the reuse of a positioning and exposure device designed as a disposable component.
[0125] Doing without electrical contacts between the supply device and positioning and exposure device can increase both patient safety and functional reliability.
[0126] Alternatively, the positioning and exposure device can advantageously also have an electronic component for identifying the positioning and exposure device, and an interface for querying the electronic component can be the only electrical line connection between the supply device and the positioning and exposure device.
[0127] According to one preferred embodiment, the radiation source and the detection device, which is preferably embodied as an optical detection device, in particular as a photodetector, can be arranged on a common circuit board. Particularly advantageously, a driver switch for the radiation source and/or an amplifier circuit for the detection device, in particular the photodetector, can also be arranged on the circuit board. Due to the typically low currents in the μA range, short line lengths are advantageous, in particular between the detection device, in particular the photodiode (photodetector), and the amplifier circuit, which, in addition to cost-effective production and compact design, also speaks in favor of equipping a common circuit board with the corresponding electronic components. In this case, the detection device can have, e.g., one or more photodiodes. The detection device is preferably an optical detection device, in particular a photodetector. A detection device is preferably assigned to every second optical guide, i.e., optical guides through which radiation from the examination area is guided to the detection device. The number of second optical guides preferably correlates to the number of detection devices. Alternatively, however, it is also possible that two second optical guides is guided through the radiation from the examination area to the detection device, are assigned to a detection device, or the radiation guided with the specific optical guide is conducted to a or precisely one detection device.
[0128] Preferably exactly one or at least one lens, in particular up to two or up to three lenses, in particular one or more converging lens(es) and/or one or more diffusing lens(es) can be provided or embodied between radiation source and associated optical guide connection or optical guide and/or between the detection device, in particular the photodetector, and associated optical guide connection or optical guide, and additionally or alternatively a lens geometry can be integrated into the optical guide at the transition.
[0129] According to one further preferred embodiment of the present invention, one or more photocells and/or one or more photomultipliers and/or one or more CMOS sensors and/or one or more CCD sensors and/or one or more photodiodes and/or one or more phototransistors and/or one or more photoresistors can be used as the detection device, in particular as a photodetector.
[0130] The optical contact point for coupling light from the supply device into the positioning and exposure device and/or the optical contact point for decoupling near-infrared light from the positioning and exposure device into the supply device can advantageously additionally or alternatively be equipped with exactly one or at least one lens, in particular up to two or up to three lenses, in particular one or more converging lens(es) and/or one or more diffusing lens(es), additionally or alternatively a lens geometry can be integrated into the optical guide at the transition.
[0131] According to one advantageous refinement, an optical interface for coupling light from the supply device into the positioning and exposure device and/or an optical interface for decoupling light from the positioning and exposure device into the supply device is preferably provided with at least or precisely one cover glass, in particular with several cover glasses, in particular with up to two or one additional or up to three cover glasses. The cover glasses are preferably transparent at least for radiation in a wavelength range of at least 500 nm to 1040 nm, in particular in the range between 600 nm and 960 nm or in the range between 600 nm and 800 nm, in particular in the range between 630 nm and 700 nm, or in the range between 800 nm and 1000 nm, in particular in the range between 820 nm and 960 nm, in particular in the range between 840 nm and 940 nm, in particular in the range between 870 nm and 910 nm, in particular in the range between 885 nm and 895 nm, in particular essentially or exactly 890 nm. Furthermore, a cover glass or a plurality of cover glasses can have or be equipped with optical filters for filtering out defined radiation components, in particular radiation outside the wavelength range from 500 nm to 1040 nm, in particular outside the range from 600 nm to 960 nm or outside the range from 600 nm to 800 nm, in particular outside the range from 630 nm to 700 nm, or outside the range from 800 nm to 1000 nm, in particular outside the range from 820 nm to 960 nm, in particular outside the range from 840 nm to 940 nm, in particular outside the range from 870 nm to 910 nm, in particular outside the range from 885 nm to 895 nm, in particular substantially or exactly deviating from 890 nm. This is advantageous because one or a plurality of optical filters can prevent the detection device from being exposed to ambient light.
[0132] A cover glass or a plurality of cover glasses is/are preferably coated, in particular with an anti-reflection coating, which is preferably applied using the PVD method or by means of sputter deposition and which preferably has monocrystalline germanium or zinc selenide. The coating is preferably an IR AR coating, which is preferably adjusted to the range of 840-940 nm, in particular exactly or essentially 890 nm.
[0133] According to one further advantageous development, the optical emission surface or first or second radiation exit surface and/or the optical collector surface or first or second radiation entry surface is equipped with a Fresnel structure for directed coupling in or decoupling of the measurement radiation.
[0134] The above object is also achieved using a method according to claim 16. The method preferably relates to exposing living beings to radiation, in particular for determining at least one vital parameter, and preferably to pressure. The method preferably has at least the following steps:
[0135] Supplying a measuring device for determining at least one vital parameter of a living being, in particular for continuously determining the intra-arterial blood pressure on at least one finger of a hand, at least having one supply device for supplying at least one radiation source for supplying radiation and preferably for supplying a functional fluid supply device, in particular a functional fluid pump, and for supplying at least one detection device, and a positioning and exposure device for the defined arrangement on at least one body part of a living being and for exposing the body part to the radiation and preferably pressure, wherein the positioning and exposure device comprises a guiding and support structure for delimiting an examination area and preferably for holding at least one force application device. The supply device and the positioning and exposure device can preferably be physically coupled to and/or decoupled from one another without the use of tools and/or non-destructively.
[0136] Furthermore, the measuring device preferably has a first optical guide and a second optical guide and particularly preferably has a further first optical guide and/or a further second optical guide.
[0137] The first optical guide is preferably arranged such that the radiation from the radiation source can be introduced into the first optical guide through a first entry surface of the first optical guide, wherein the radiation can be guided out of the first optical guide through a first exit surface of the first optical guide. Additionally or alternatively, the second optical guide is preferably arranged such that at least some of the radiation that has exited the first optical guide through the first exit surface of the first optical guide can be introduced into the second optical guide through a second entry surface of the second optical guide.
[0138] Particularly preferably, the radiation introduced into the second optical guide through the second entry surface can be guided out of the second optical guide through a second exit surface and can be conducted to the detection device. The first optical guide and/or the second optical guide is/are preferably curved and the further first optical guide and/or the further second optical guide is/are particularly preferably curved.
[0139] Additionally or alternatively, a first main body extends between the first entry surface and the first exit surface, wherein the first main body and the first exit surface are oriented such that a main outward radiation direction is defined, and wherein a second main body extends between the second entry surface and the second exit surface, wherein the second main body and the second exit surface are oriented such that a main inward radiation direction is defined.
[0140] The main outward radiation direction and the main inward radiation direction are preferably oriented to one another at an angle of between 65° and 115°, in particular at an angle of between 75° and 105° or at an angle of between 85° and 95° . This applies analogously to the further first optical guide and the further second optical guide.
[0141] The method further includes the steps: emitting radiation using the radiation source, directing the radiation to an examination area, wherein the radiation is guided through the first optical guide, introducing radiation from the examination area into the second optical guide, and guiding the radiation introduced into the second optical guide to the detection device.
[0142] The above object is also achieved by a method according to claim 17. The method preferably relates to exposing living beings to radiation, in particular for determining at least one vital parameter, and preferably to pressure. The method preferably has at least the following steps:
[0143] Supplying a positioning and exposure device, wherein the positioning and exposure device has a guiding and support structure for delimiting an examination area and preferably for holding at least one force application device, wherein the body part is positioned in the examination area during the exposure, in particular exposure to radiation and/or application of pressure. The force application device is preferably connected to the guiding and support structure, wherein the guiding and support structure embodies at least one radiation entry area in a section delimiting the examination area.
[0144] The guiding and support structure preferably forms a radiation exit area in a further section delimiting the examination area.
[0145] A first elongate optical guide is preferably arranged in the beam path of the radiation at least upstream of the examination area, wherein the first optical guide is curved at least in sections for at least one deflection of the beam path of the radiation that can be introduced into the first optical guide. Additionally or alternatively, a second elongate optical guide is arranged in the beam path of the radiation at least downstream of the radiation exit area, wherein the second optical guide is curved at least in sections for at least one deflection of the beam path of the radiation which can be introduced into the second optical guide.
[0146] The method also preferably has the following steps:
[0147] Arranging in a defined manner at least one body part of a living being on or in the positioning and exposure device and exposing the body part to radiation, wherein radiation is introduced through the first radiation entry area and into the examination area out of the first optical guide for exposing the body part and wherein at least some of the radiation introduced into the examination area through the radiation entry area can be conducted through the radiation exit area and into the second optical guide, wherein the radiation introduced into the second optical guide is forwarded in a defined manner by the second optical guide.
[0148] The method may further include the step: Applying pressure to the body part, wherein the force application device applies pressure to the body part. This step is preferably carried out at the same time the body part is exposed to radiation.
[0149] The above object is also achieved by a method according to claim 18. The method preferably relates to exposing living beings to radiation, in particular for determining at least one vital parameter, and preferably to pressure. The method preferably has at least the following steps:
[0150] Supplying a positioning and exposure device, wherein the positioning and exposure device has a guiding support structure for delimiting an examination area and preferably for holding at least one force application device, wherein the body part is positioned in the examination area during the exposure, in particular the exposure to radiation and/or pressure. The force application device is preferably connected to the guiding and support structure. The guiding and support structure in a section delimiting the examination area preferably forms at least one radiation entry area. Additionally or alternatively, the guiding and support structure forms a radiation exit area in a further section delimiting the examination area. A first elongate optical guide is preferably arranged in the beam path of the radiation at least upstream of the examination area, wherein the first optical guide has a first entry surface, a first main body, and a first exit surface, wherein the first main body and the first exit surface are oriented such that a main outward radiation direction is defined. Additionally or alternatively, a second elongate optical guide is arranged in the beam path of the radiation at least downstream of the radiation exit area, wherein the second optical guide has a second entry surface, a second main body, and a second exit surface, wherein the second main body and the second entry surface are oriented such that a main inward radiation direction is defined.
[0151] The main outward radiation direction and the main inward radiation direction are particularly preferably oriented to one another at an angle of between 65° and 115°, in particular at an angle of between 75° and 105°, or at an angle of between 85° and 95°.
[0152] The method preferably also has at least the following steps:
[0153] Arranging in a defined manner at least one body part of a living being on the positioning and exposure device and exposing of the body part to radiation, wherein radiation is introduced through the first radiation entry area and guided out of the first optical guide into the examination area for exposing the body part and wherein at least some of the radiation introduced into the examination area through the radiation entry area can be conducted through the radiation exit area and into the second optical guide, wherein the radiation introduced into the second optical guide is forwarded in a defined manner by the second optical guide.
[0154] The method may further include the step: Applying pressure to the body part, wherein the force application device applies pressure to the body part. This step is preferably carried out at the same time the body part is exposed to radiation.
[0155] The above object is also achieved by a method according to claim 19. The method preferably relates to exposing living beings to radiation, in particular for determining at least one vital parameter, and preferably to pressure. The method preferably has at least the following steps:
[0156] Supplying a supply device for supplying radiation and a functional fluid, wherein the supply device has at least one radiation source and one detection device, in particular a radiation detection device, a first optical guide, and a second optical guide. The supply device can preferably also have a functional fluid supply device. The first optical guide is preferably arranged such that the radiation from the radiation source can be introduced into the first optical guide through a first entry surface of the first optical guide. The radiation can preferably be guided out of the first optical guide through a first exit surface of the first optical guide. The second optical guide is preferably arranged such that radiation that has exited from the first optical guide through the first exit surface of the first optical guide can be introduced into the second optical guide, preferably through a second entry surface of the second optical guide. Particularly preferably, the radiation introduced into the second optical guide through the second entry surface can be guided out of the second optical guide through a second exit surface and can be conducted to the detection device. The first optical guide and/or the second optical guide and/or a further first optical guide and/or a further second optical guide is/are preferably curved.
[0157] Additionally or alternatively, a first main body extends between the first entry surface and the first exit surface, wherein the first main body and the first exit surface are oriented such that a main outward radiation direction is defined. A second main body preferably extends between the second entry surface and the second exit surface, wherein the second main body and the second exit surface are preferably oriented such that a main inward radiation direction is defined. The main outward radiation direction and the main inward radiation direction are particularly preferably oriented to one another at an angle of between 65° and 115°, in particular at an angle of between 75° and 105°, or at an angle of between 85° and 95°.
[0158] The method also preferably has the following steps:
[0159] Emitting radiation through the radiation source and coupling the radiation into the first optical guide and detecting radiation by means of the detection device, wherein portions of the radiation emitted by the radiation source and coupled into the first optical guide are conducted to the detection device through the second optical guide.
[0160] It is also possible for the method to have the step of supplying the functional fluid through the functional fluid supply device.
[0161] Alternatively, it is possible for the inventive devices, i.e. the measuring device, the supply device, and/or the positioning and exposure device, and/or the inventive methods to be embodied or designed without a functional fluid supply device and/or without a force application device and/or without a functional fluid.
[0162] According to one preferred embodiment of the present invention, a force application device for applying pressure to the body part is preferably provided as a component of one of the positioning and exposure device(s) described herein. The positioning and exposure device can be, e.g., a component of a measuring device or can be a device that can be coupled to a supply device.
[0163] The force application device is preferably connected to the guiding and support structure of the positioning and exposure device and is particularly preferably held by the guiding and support structure.
[0164] Furthermore, the present invention according to claim 20 relates to a set. The set preferably has at least one first positioning and exposure device according to one of claims 1 to 9 and at least one second positioning and exposure device according to one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the shape and/or orientations of the optical guides of the first positioning and exposure device is different from the shape and/or orientations of the optical guides of the second positioning and exposure device. In addition, the set can have a supply device.
[0165] The supply device preferably has a coupling point to which the first positioning and exposure device can be detachably coupled and to which the second positioning and exposure device can be detachably coupled. Furthermore, a third positioning and exposure device according to one of claims 1 to 9 can be part of the set. The third positioning and exposure device can preferably also be detachably coupled to the coupling point of the supply device. Particularly preferably, the optical guides of the third positioning and exposure device have an orientation and/or shape that differs from the orientation and/or shape of the first and/or second positioning and exposure devices. A deviation in shape or orientation can be understood as any structural change or change in orientation that causes a different course of the beam path through the first and second optical guide of the respective positioning and exposure device. Thus, the beam path of the first positioning and exposure device differs from the beam path of the second positioning and exposure device and of the third positioning and exposure device.
[0166]
[0167] The positioning and exposure device 1 preferably has at least one guiding support structure 6 for delimiting the examination area 8 or the examination areas 8 and 9. The guiding and support structure is preferably used to hold at least one force application device, in particular at least or exactly one force application device 82 per examination area 8, 9, wherein the body part 2, 3 can be positioned in the examination area 2, 3 during exposure, in particular exposure to radiation and/or pressure. The force application device 82 is preferably connected to the guiding and support structure 6, it being possible for the body part to be subjected to pressure by means of the force application device 82.
[0168] The force application device 82 is preferably embodied as a bladder, in particular as a plastic bladder. The bladder is preferably arranged on the guiding support structure and delimiting the examination area. The bladder is preferably arranged opposite the radiation entry area and/or the radiation exit area. The radiation entry area and/or the radiation exit area for each examination area (in the case of one examination area or several examination areas) is preferably arranged or embodied on one side of the examination area and the bladder or bladders are preferably arranged or embodied opposite thereto, in particular on the other side of the examination area. The bladder is preferably arranged vertically above the radiation entry area and/or the radiation exit area.
[0169]
[0170] In addition to the exposure radiation, the supply device 74 preferably also provides at least one functional fluid, wherein one functional fluid supply device 90 is preferably arranged in the accommodation space 89, wherein the functional fluid device 90 is embodied to supply the functional fluid as a function of the detection radiation detected by detection device 78, wherein a control device 88 is preferably arranged in the accommodation space 89, wherein the control device 88 preferably controls the first radiation source 76 (see
[0171] For the purposes of the present invention, the term exposure radiation is preferably understood to mean the radiation which is supplied by a radiation source 76 (see
[0172]
[0173] “Interior” is preferably to be understood as facing a further optical guide of the same optical guide pair and “external” is preferably to be understood as facing away from the further optical guide of the same optical guide pair. The same understanding can apply to optical guides of a further optical guide pair, in particular when a further optical guide pair is provided.
[0174] The entry surface 24 preferably has a curved shape. Particularly preferably, the entry surface 24 is part of or a component of a lenticular portion of main body 26. A preferably tapering portion 54 or an at least partially conical portion preferably adjoins the entry surface 24, in particular the lens-shaped portion, in the region of a transition 180. The tapering portion 54 or the conical portion can have one or a plurality of partially flattened or planar surfaces 181. Reference number 183 designates an end of the tapering portion 54 or of the conical portion and/or the beginning of a further portion 182, which is in particular tubular or cylindrical, at least in sections. The portion 182 preferably embodies a deflection region 44 for deflecting the radiation. The deflection region 44 can preferably be coated and/or structured. A further preferably cylindrical and/or tubular and/or conical region 186 preferably adjoins the portion 182 via a transition point 185. Region 186 is preferably shorter than the deflection portion 44. Alternatively, it is also possible for the deflection region 44 to extend, in particular in a straight line or in the form of a cylinder, to the exit area 28. The deflection portion 44 is preferably longer or shorter than the tapering portion 54. Alternatively, the tapering portion 54 and the deflection portion 44 can be of the same length. Furthermore, at least or exactly one further portion can be embodied between the deflection portion 44 and the tapering portion 54. Furthermore, the tapering portion 54 and/or the deflection portion 44 and/or the region 186 can be curved. Furthermore, the tapering portion 54 is oriented relative to the deflection portion at an angle of less than 85°, in particular less than 80° or less than 70° or less than 60° or less than 50° or less than 45°.
[0175] In the interior, starting from the exit region 28, the contour preferably has an end region 187, in particular a straight or curved region 187. The end region 187 is preferably adjacent to a transition point 188, via which the end region 187 is connected to a further region, preferably further straight region 189, in particular the ear-shaped or cylindrical portion. One, two or more than two, or up to two or three or exactly three or up to three or more than three or all of these portions and/or regions can be coated and/or structured.
[0176]
[0177] This optical guide 22 preferably has an interior contour portion which, starting from the entry surface 32, preferably extends in a curved manner or in curved sections or in straight sections or in completely straight sections. This is then followed, preferably via a transition point 213, by a portion 212 which extends preferably straight or straight in sections or completely curved or in sections that are curved. Furthermore, it is alternatively possible for the portion 214 or only the portion 214 to connect the entry surface 32 to the exit surface 36. Alternatively, it is also possible for the portion 212 or only the portion 212 to connect the entry surface 32 to the exit surface 36. Furthermore, a further portion or a plurality of further portions can be embodied between the portion 212 and the portion 214. On the exterior, the second optical guide 22 preferably has a first preferably curved portion 211 and a second preferably curved portion 210 adjoining it, in particular continuously. The portion 211 preferably has a greater curvature than the portion 210. Alternatively, however, it is also possible for one or more regions to be provided. Additionally or alternatively, the portion 211 and/or the portion 210 can be formed in a straight line. Furthermore, the portion 210 preferably has a length which corresponds to a multiple of, in particular at least 1.5 times or at least 2 times or at least 3 times, the length of the portion 211.
[0178]
[0179]
[0180]
[0181] The exterior contour of the optical guide 22 preferably also has a curved portion 231 and a straight portion 230, which preferably transition into one another continuously. The straight portion 230 ends on the one hand at the exit surface 36 and the curved portion 231 ends on the one hand at the entry surface 32. The contour of the optical guide 22 can preferably also only be curved on the exterior. The curved portion 231 is preferably longer than the straight portion 230 by a multiple, in particular at least 1.5 times or at least 2 times or at least 3 times longer.
[0182] The thickness of the optical guide 22 is preferably continuous.
[0183]
[0184] On the exterior, a bend 224 preferably adjoins the entry surface 32, which is preferably adjoined by a straight portion 223. A bent portion 222 preferably adjoins the straight portion 223, wherein the portion 222 is preferably bent in the same direction as the portion 224. Adjoining the portion 222 is preferably a straight portion 221, which preferably has or forms a turning point. A further bent portion 220 then preferably adjoins the straight portion 221, wherein this further bent portion 220 is bent in a different direction than the portion 224 and/or the portion 222. Alternatively, it is possible for the entire exterior contour to have or form a bend or two opposing bends that preferably transition directly into one another. The thickness of the optical guide 22 preferably changes in the longitudinal direction of the optical guide 22. A first length portion of the optical guide 22 extending from the entry surface in the direction of the exit surface and over 50% of the length preferably has more material forming the optical guide 22 in terms of mass and/or volume than a second length portion extending from the exit surface in the direction of the entry surface over 50% of the length of the optical guide. Alternatively, a first length portion of the optical guide 22 extending from the entry surface in the direction of the exit surface and over 50% of the length has less material forming the optical guide 22 in terms of mass and/or volume than a second length portion extending from the exit surface in the direction of the entry surface over 50% of the length of the optical guide.
[0185]
[0186]
[0187] It can be seen that the angle 301 is smaller than the angle 304 or the angle 307, wherein the angle 304 is smaller than the angle 307. It can also be seen that the distance 302 is less than the distance 305 or the distance 308, wherein the distance 305 is smaller than the distance 308. Furthermore, it can be seen that the height 303 is less than the height 306 and the height 309, wherein the height 306 is less than the height 309. The angles 301, 304, and 307 each indicate an angle between the main outward radiation direction 30 and the main inward radiation direction 36. The distances 302, 305, and 308 each indicate a distance from the center of the first exit surface 28 and the second entry surface 32. The heights 303, 306, and 309 preferably indicate the distance of a point of intersection between the main outward radiation direction 30 and the main inward radiation direction 36 to a surface of a cover glass 99.
[0188] In the sense of a set, several positioning devices 1, 400, 402, in particular differently configured, can preferably be provided. In this case, e.g., the first positioning and exposure device 1 has at least one optical guide pair that differs in shape and/or orientation from an optical guide pair of the second positioning and exposure device 400. The second positioning and exposure device 400 preferably has at least one optical guide pair that differs in shape and/or orientation from an optical fiber pair of the third positioning and exposure device 402. The first positioning and exposure device 1 preferably has at least one optical guide pair that differs in shape and/or orientation from an optical guide pair of the third positioning and exposure device 402.
[0189] It is possible here for the guiding and support structure 6 of the individual positioning and exposure devices 1, 400, 402 to be configured identically, but for each to have different holder devices 70. In this case, the first positioning and exposure device 1 can have a holder device 70 which has one or more optical guide pairs which are oriented and/or embodied in a first configuration, in particular in the configuration shown in
[0190]
[0191] Furthermore, in this example the holder device 70 has accommodation points 712, 714 for accommodating the first optical guide 18 and the second optical guide 22. Particularly preferably, the holder device 70 also has accommodation points 713, 715 for accommodating the further first optical guide 19 and the further second optical guide 23. The accommodation points 712, 714 (see
[0192] If the holder device 70 is designed to hold a plurality of optical guide pairs, the holder device 70 preferably has a radiation barrier 72 between the accommodation points for accommodating the first optical guide pair and the accommodation points for the second optical guide pair. The radiation barrier 72 is preferably an integral component of the holder device, in particular of the first part 710 of the holder device 70 and/or of the second part 711 of the holder device 70. The accommodation points 712, 714 and/or 713, 715 preferably hold the optical guides 18, 19, 22, 23 respectively in a positive fit and/or in a non-positive fit and/or in a material fit.
[0193]
[0194]
[0195] The holder device 70 preferably has a plurality of parts, one part can be, e.g., a rear holder part 706. Another part can be, e.g., a front holder part 708 (see
[0196]
[0197]
[0198]
[0199]
[0200]
[0201] The present invention thus relates to a positioning and exposure device 1 for the defined arrangement on at least one body part 2, 3 of a living being 4 and for exposing the body part 2, 3 to radiation for determining at least one vital parameter of the living being 4. The positioning and exposure device 1 preferably has at least:
[0202] A guiding and support structure 6 for delimiting an examination area 8, wherein the body part 2 can be positioned during exposure in the examination area 8, wherein the guiding and support structure 6 in a section 10 delimiting the examination area 8 forms at least one radiation entry area 12, wherein radiation can be introduced through the radiation entry area 12 into the examination area 8, and wherein the guiding and support structure 6 forms a radiation exit area 16 in a further section 14 delimiting the examination area 8, wherein at least part of the radiation which can be introduced through the radiation entry area 12 into the examination area 8 can be guided out of the examination area 8 through the radiation exit area 16. Preferably a first elongate optical guide 18 is arranged in the beam path 20 of the radiation at least upstream of the examination area 8, wherein the first optical guide 18 is curved at least in sections for at least one deflection of the beam path 20 of the radiation which can be introduced into the first optical guide 18. Additionally or alternatively, a second elongate optical guide 22 is arranged in beam path 20 of the radiation, at least downstream of radiation exit area 16, wherein the second optical guide 22 is curved at least in sections for at least one deflection of the beam path 20 of the radiation which can be introduced into second optical guide 22.
[0203] Additionally or alternatively, the first optical guide 18 has a first entry surface 24, a first main body 26, and a first exit surface 28, wherein the first main body 26 and the first exit surface 28 are oriented such that a main outward radiation direction 30 from the first optical guide 18 is defined and the second optical guide 22 has a second entry surface 32, a second main body 34, and a second exit surface 36, wherein the second main body 34 and the second entry surface 32 are oriented such that a main inward radiation direction 38 into the second optical guide 22 is defined, wherein main outward radiation direction 30 and the main inward radiation direction 38 are oriented relative to one another at an angle of between 65° and 115°, in particular at an angle of between 75° and 105° or at an angle of between 85° and 95°.
LIST OF REFERENCE SYMBOLS
[0204]
TABLE-US-00001 1 Positioning and 23 Further second optical guide exposure device 24 First entry surface 2 Body part 26 First main body 3 Further body part 28 First exit surface 4 Living being 30 Main outward radiation direction 6 Guiding and support structure 32 Second entry surface 8 Examination area 34 Second main body 9 Further or second 36 Second exit surface examination area 38 Main inward radiation direction 10 Section delimiting the examination 39 Angle between main inward radiation area direction and main outward radiation 12 Radiation entry area direction 13 Further or second 40 First portion of the beam path radiation entry area 42 Second portion of the beam path 14 Further section adjacent to the 44 Deflection area examination area 46 Third portion of the beam path 16 Radiation exit area 48 Fourth portion of the beam path 17 Further or second 50 Second deflection region Radiation exit area 54 Tapering portion 18 First optical guide 60 Converging lens 19 Further first optical guide 62 First optical guide pair 20 Beam path 64 Second optical guide pair 22 Second optical guide 183 End of the conical or 70 Holder device tapering portion and beginning of the 72 Radiation barrier tubular or 74 Supply device cylindrical portion 76 Radiation source 185 Transition point 78 Detection device 186 Cylindrical and/or tubular 80 Coupling device and/or conical area 82 Force application device 187 Straight area 83 Further or second 188 Transition point force application device 189 Region 84 Measuring device 210 Lower bend on exterior contour 86 Carrier device 211 Upper bend on exterior contour 88 Control device 212 Lower straight accommodation 89 Accommodation space section on the interior contour 90 Functional fluid supply 213 End of the straight section 212 and device beginning of the 92 Supply line to the subsequent bent section 214 functional fluid supply 214 Curved section on the device interior contour 94 Supply line to the 220 Lower bend on exterior contour force application device 221 Straight portion with turning point to 96 Line connection exterior contour 98 Interface 222 Center bending portion on exterior 99 Cover glass contour 100 Further cover glass 223 Straight portion on exterior contour 180 Transition from lenticular 224 Upper bend on exterior contour portion on conical portion 225 Lower bend on interior contour 181 Flattened contour, in particular flat 226 Turning point on interior contour contour 703 Further or second 182 Tubular or cylindrical portion radiation incoupling point 227 Further bend towards interior contour 704 Radiation outcoupling point opposing lower bend 705 Further or second 228 Straight portion Radiation outcoupling point 230 Straight portion on exterior contour 706 Rear holder part 231 Curved portion on exterior contour 708 Front holder part 232 Straight portion on interior contour 709 Holder device for accommodating the 233 Bent portion on interior contour holder device 301 Angle a 710 First part of the holder device 709 302 Distance b 711 Second part of the holder device 303 Height c 709 304 Angle d 712 First accommodation point 305 Distance e 713 Further first accommodation point 306 Height f 714 Second accommodation point 307 Angle g 715 Further second accommodation point 308 Distance h 801 Coupling portion of the coupling point 309 Height i 80 for the 400 Second positioning and positioning and exposure device exposure device 1 402 Third positioning and 802 Coupling portion of the exposure device Coupling point 80 for 702 Radiation incoupling point supply device 74