Interface for health measurement and monitoring system

Cross-Reference to Related Applications

This application claims priority to provisional US patent application 61/012721 and 61/012718, filed December 10, 2007, which are incorporated herein by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention generally relates to systems and methods for testing and monitoring of health data. More specifically, systems and methods according to the present invention provide an interface for displaying information regarding the testing and monitoring of health data in a more convenient, efficient and intuitive manner.

BACKGROUND

Quantitative determination of analytes in body fluids is extremely important in diagnosis and maintenance of certain physiological states. For example, some individuals need to monitor lactate, cholesterol and bilirubin. In particular, it is important that individuals with diabetes frequently check the glucose level in their body fluids to regulate the glucose intake in their diet. The results of such tests can be used to determine, if necessary, whether to inject insulin or other drugs.

Diagnostic systems, such as systems for determining the level of glucose in the blood include a measuring device or instrument used to calculate a glucose value based on a result of measurement, such as current or color, and the known reaction reagent-sensing element used to perform the test. Systems for the determination of blood glucose levels typically allow the user to collect a blood sample on a test sensor, which in turn is located in the measuring device. The measuring device measures the reaction between the glucose in the blood sample and the reagent in the test sensor, determining the concentration of glucose in the blood sample. These systems may store test results in the meter and may display the results to the user. The measurement device also may be provided with a keypad or other interactive component, so that the user can access the test results.

The user interface associated with these systems, typically provides the user with certain features that relate to the test results. For example, some devices, the user enters information about user actions, including eating habits, physical activity, etc. Typically, the user enters information after the test and after the user has received the results. These systems are less efficient because they require the user to enter such information and administration information is an integral part of the testing process.

In view of the foregoing, a need exists for a method that provides a simpler, more intuitive user interfaces that are integrated in the testing process. Systems that make the process of entering information about the user easier, more intuitive, providing users with the best perception and, ultimately, provide the user with a more accurate and meaningful information about his or her condition. Such systems help the user to provide information so that it becomes a routine part of their testing mode.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In one embodiment, the testing system comprises a user interface including a display for displaying information relating to measurements of health data and an input device for receiving information from the user regarding the health data. The testing system further includes a function of automatic registration, which allows the user to self-select options on the display and instruct the user during the time period corresponding to the amount of time required to perform the measurements, to perform input information relating to health data, which correspond to the desired option selected user.

In another embodiment, a method of providing a testing system comprises the step of providing the testing system having a user interface comprising a display step of receiving data on the state of health of the user through the measurement and a step of instructing the user to perform input user information that corresponds to the data on health, and the instruction takes place within a time period corresponding to the amount of time needed to perform measurements relating to the health data. The method further comprises performing the measurements relating to the health data, and receiving, during the measurement, the user information that corresponds to the data on health, through the input device, and displaying the measured health data on the display.

According to a further embodiment of a testing system comprises a user interface including a display for displaying information relating to measurements of health data and an input device for receiving input from a user. The test system also includes a statistical operation that provides the user with detailed information concerning the measurement of health data. The statistical operation provides the user with an average value based on a set of indications of health data, determined during a specified time period. The test system further comprises at least one indicator for indicating information concerning the number of indications of health data that are within the target range, the number of indications of health data that exceeds the target range and the number of indications of health data that are below the target range.

In yet another embodiment, a method of providing a testing system comprises the step of providing the testing system having a user interface including a display for displaying information relating to measurements of health data including a plurality of indications of health data, a step of receiving input from a user through an input device and a step perform statistical operations to provide the user with detailed information concerning the plurality of indications of health data. The method further includes the step of displaying the result of the statistical operation based on the set reading data on the state of health as determined during the specified time period, and a step of displaying at least one indicator for indicating the number of indications of health data that are within the target range , indications of health data, which exceeds the target range and the number of indications of health data that are below the target range.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1A shows a testing system having an interface for displaying data on the state of health.

FIG. 1B shows a testing system Fig. 1A, a test sensor where the user enters the liquid sample.

FIG. 1C shows the information displayed on the user interface, which is related to the automatic registration.

FIG. 1D shows the information displayed on the user interface, which refers to the measurement of the same type of health data.

FIG. 2A shows the information displayed on the user interface, which is related to the statistical operation performed by the test system.

FIG. 2B shows the information displayed on the user interface, which is relevant to the averaging function according to one embodiment.

FIG. 2C shows the information displayed on the user interface, which is relevant to the averaging function in accordance with another embodiment.

FIG. 2D illustrates information displayed on the user interface that is related to averaging function according to another embodiment.

FIG. 3 shows information relating to a sequence of operations performed by the user, and is related to averaging function according to a further embodiment.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram that relates to the automatic registration.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram that relates to the function of averaging.

While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, the drawings herein are shown as an example and described in detail specific embodiments. However, it should be understood that the invention is not limited to the particular forms disclosed. On the contrary, the invention covers all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the invention.

Description of the illustrated embodiments

Testing of the system according to the present invention provide information regarding health data. This health data may be collected, measured or input by the user. One example of such health data is an analyte concentration in a body fluid sample, such as glucose in a blood sample. Other types of health data may include heart rate measurements, blood pressure measurements, body temperature measurements, breathing measurements for analysis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), weight measurements for analyzing Lasix using etc. For measurements that do not require analysis of the analyte, the testing device 10 may monitor and analyze these types of health data and provide the user with current information about the condition of the user. In cases when the following description refers mainly to testing of analytes in fluid samples, it will be understood that other types of health data may be used with aspects of the present invention.

In some embodiments, the test device described herein can be used in a large system for collecting and processing data on the state of health that connects the testing device with other external processing devices, health care devices, and / or other devices / systems. The testing device may take advantage of the processing and user interface capabilities of such devices. For example, some functions performed may be more convenient to watch external processing devices if the size of the user interface on the testing device is too compact. Meanwhile, the health care devices may take advantage of the processing and user interface capabilities of the testing device. The interface between the testing device and the external devices may employ a wired data exchange protocol, such as standard USB (Universal Serial Bus) or a wireless communication protocol, such as Bluetooth® technology.

For example, the testing device may be a device for measuring blood glucose levels, which is connected to a processing device, such as a conventional personal computer (PC). Although the device for measuring the level of glucose in the blood can include improved processing functions and displaying data, as described herein, users of the device for measuring blood glucose levels may lead to a more complex analysis and presentation of measurement in blood glucose level when connecting device measuring the level of glucose in the blood processing device which performs data management software. For example, software may be a product similar software WINGLUCOFACTS® Diabetes Management Software, proposed by Bayer HealthCare LLC (Tarrytown, New York). In another example, the testing device may be a device for measuring blood glucose levels, which is connected with the unit of medical care, such as a monitor heart rate, that transmits health data that can be combined with data directly assembled device for measuring glucose levels in blood.

Referring to FIG. 1A, showing one embodiment of the testing device 10 and a test sensor 12. The test sensor 12 has a configuration which is capable of holding a liquid sample to be analyzed using the testing device 10. Analytes that may be analyzed include glucose, lipid profiles (e.g. cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL and HDL), microalbumin, hemoglobin A1C, fructose, lactate, or bilirubin. The analytes may be present, for example, a whole blood sample, a blood serum sample, a blood plasma sample, other body fluids such as ISF (interstitial fluid) and urine, and non-biological fluids.

As shown in FIG. 1B, the test sensor 12 includes a region 14 for receiving a fluid for receiving the sample fluid. For example, the user may use a lancet or a lancing device (not shown) to pierce a finger or other body part in order to obtain a fluid sample at the skin surface. The user can then collect the resulting sample fluid resulting test sensor 12 into contact with the sample. Region 14 for receiving a fluid may comprise a reagent which interacts with the sample to indicate the concentration of the analyte in the sample.

In other embodiments, samples may be collected by a sensor continuous glucose monitoring (CGM), which bears the user and which collects samples of a biological fluid subcutaneously. In addition, various types of wearable sensors and / or transmitters are considered as applicable to the present invention. For example, clocks, wrist bandages, plasters, headphones, and other telemetry-based devices may be used to collect health data in conjunction with the embodiments disclosed herein. Such devices may be smaller, lighter and less invasive than traditional devices, which are used for collecting health data.

The test sensor 12 may be an electrochemical test sensor. The electrochemical test sensor typically includes a plurality of electrodes and the region for receiving the fluid which contains the enzyme. The area for receiving the liquid reactant includes that converts the analyte of interest (e.g., glucose) in a fluid sample (e.g., blood) into a chemical species which can be measured electrochemically by measuring the electrical current that it produces components of the electrode matrix. The reagent typically contains an enzyme such as, for example, glucose oxidase, which reacts with the analyte and with an electron donor, such as a ferricyanide salt, to form an electrochemically measurable compound which can be detected by the electrodes. The application of other enzymes which can react with glucose such as glucose dehydrogenase. In general, the enzyme is selected to react with the desired analyte or analytes tested to determine the concentration of an analyte in a fluid sample. If it is necessary to determine the concentration of another analyte is selected corresponding enzyme, which interacts with said analyte.

Alternatively, the test sensor 12 may be an optical test sensor. In systems based on optical test sensor for measuring the concentration of an analyte can be used methods such as, for example, transmission spectroscopy, diffuse reflection spectroscopy or fluorescence spectroscopy. Indicator reagent system and an analyte in the liquid sample react with the development of the color reaction, since the reaction between the reagent and analyte causes a change in color of the sample. The degree of color change is indicative of the analyte concentration in the fluid. The color change of the sample evaluated for the measurement of the absorption of the transmitted light.

Some commercially available test sensors that may be used in embodiments disclosed herein include sensors offered by Bayer HealthCare LLC (Tarrytown, New York). These test sensors include, among others, the sensors used in the control of blood glucose levels Ascensia® CONTOUR®, systems monitoring blood glucose Ascensia® BREEZE® and BREEZE®2, as well as control systems in blood glucose levels Ascensia ® Elite® and Elite® XL. It is contemplated that other test sensors, in addition to the above, may be included in the methods and systems of the present invention.

As shown in FIG. 1B, in the testing device 10 is inserted and fixed test sensor 12. The testing device 10 includes a response detection system adapted for measuring the concentration of analyte in the sample collected in the test sensor 12. As described above, the detection reaction may include contacts for the electrodes, means for detecting an electrochemical reaction in an electrochemical test sensor. In the alternative, the detection system response may include an optical sensor for detecting the color reaction in an optical test sensor. To calculate the actual concentration of analyte from the electrochemical or color reaction measured by the detection system of the reaction, and generally to process control testing specimen in the testing device 10 is used, at least one processor (not shown), which typically executes program instructions in accordance measurement algorithms. The data processed by the processor may be stored in a memory element.

The test device 10 in FIG. 1B includes a user interface 20 which includes a display 22 and user input device 24. The display 22 typically displays information regarding the test results, the testing process, and / or information in response to signals input by the user, including text and images. Display 22 may be a graphic liquid crystal display (LCD), organic light-emitting display diodes (OLED), segment LCD-display, etc. User input device 24 allows a user to interact with the testing device 10 and may include buttons, touch keys, a scroll wheel, touch screen elements, or any combination thereof.

It is assumed that the user interface 20 may provide a display 22 with a high resolution, which can display both static and moving text and images to the user. However, may use other types of displays, including, for example, displays of lower resolution, monochromatic LCD-displays. In general, the range can be used all types of displays, from cheap basic display to a fully functional display. The display 22 may be any suitable size. In some cases, the display 22 may completely occupy one side of the testing device 10. Moreover, the display 22 may include a touch screen. Additionally, the user interface 20 may provide advanced graphical user display and audio characteristics available directly on the testing device 10 or via the communication interface with the testing device 10.

As described above, in the testing device 10 is used, at least one processor that typically executes program instructions and a user interface 20 which includes a display 22 for presenting information to the user, and the device 24 for input, such as buttons, softkeys, a scroll wheel, touch screen elements, or any combination thereof that provide interaction with the user. With such components, the testing device 10 generally controls the process of testing the sample and calculating the test results and also provides a plurality of user functions. Some of the user functions of the testing device 10 can be accessed by the user through a hierarchical menu. The user can navigate through a hierarchical menu to access certain functions of the testing device 10, described in more detail below. In some embodiments, the hierarchical menu consists of no more than four levels to provide a quick and convenient access to device features. For example, the user can manage a set of soft keys that correspond to elements of the hierarchical menu. In one embodiment, the testing device 10 is provided with three touch keys which are not assigned to specific functions. Preferably, the display 22 shows one set of three menu items and each of the touch keys corresponding to one of the menu items. Operations are touch keys allow the user to select the menu item and either move to another level in the hierarchical menu, or perform a specific function. Because the menu items are dynamically assigned to the touch keys, the user interface 20 does not require a separate key for each possible function, with so many different functions are available even in a compact user interface 20. Further examples of such touch keys is described in detail below.

In some embodiments, to provide an easier and more intuitive process of entering information, the user interface 20 may instruct the user to perform input information or instructions into the testing device 10 that relate to one or more functions. More specifically, the user may be asked to respond to simple instructions, or to choose a menu for guiding the user during operation of the testing device 10. One example of instructions addressed to the user is shown in FIG. 1B with respect to the automatic registration. With this particular feature, after the introduction of the test sensor 12 into the test device 10, user interface 20 provides instructions to the user caused the blood to the strip ("APPLY BLOOD TO STRIP"). The user interface 20 of FIG. 1B also graphically displays the blood drop with an arrow pointing to the test sensor to further direct the user.

After the application of blood to the strip, the user can be instructed to enter information into the testing device 10, as shown in FIG. 1C. In particular, the user may be instructed to add a comment ("ADD COMMENT") through the user interface 20. To enter the requested information, the user can choose from one or more options selected by the user, displayed on the user interface 20. The user-selectable options may be displayed in connection with one or more input devices 24 such as touch keys, for receiving user input. In another example, input device 24 may also be used to extract information such as test results and to present information on the display 12.

As noted above, FIG. 1B and 1C on the user interface 20 displays some of the instructions relating to the function of automatic registration, in particular for control of diabetes. These instructions are displayed directly after applying blood to the test sensor 12. Specifically, the user interface 20 instructs the user to press the input device 24 to select one of three user-selectable options 30 that correspond to the test sample liquid. Such information can be provided by a single "click" on one of the touch keys on the device 24 input. Specific user-selectable options associated with the automatic check may be indicators such as meal markers, that indicate when the fluid sample was taken before or after a meal. For example, one set of markers of food can include a marker (32) "before the meal" (before food), marker (34) "after a meal" (after food) and a marker (36) "pass" (skip) or "no" (none ).

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1C, the input device 24 includes touch keys 42, 44, 46, which correspond to each of the three user-selectable options 30. After applying the liquid sample to the test sensor 12 is instructed by user, for some period of time, choose one of the user-selectable options. Preferably, the time period for receiving the user's selection may correspond to the time required to perform the testing and calculations necessary to display the testing result. In certain embodiments, said period may be about 5 seconds. In other embodiments, the time period may be more or less than 5 seconds (i.e., 3 seconds, 10 seconds) and may depend on the type of test being performed.

This timing is an important feature because it allows to instruct the user to enter certain information, i.e. the markers before and after meals. The introduction of user information related to food intake, or other relevant information takes the user while he or she is waiting for test results. Furthermore, the use of the test system, which requires, for example 5 seconds to test the fluid sample generally provides a higher level of accuracy than systems that can give results in less than 5 seconds. Thus it is preferred to have a testing system that provides sufficient time to perform testing and which also uses the specified time to gather additional beneficial information.

Ultimately, the information provided by the user, may be classified so as to evaluation of the data resulted in a more useful analysis for the user. Classification of health data in accordance with the meal markers, for example, helps the user to gain a better understanding of what values ​​are averaged, and makes the data more efficient. In some embodiments, the classification information can be specifically adapted to different user groups, such as children or the elderly. Such classification can be useful, for example, by averaging the test results as certain averages, without more specific indicators, can mask information that may be useful in the treatment of disease.

Once the selection is made by pressing one of the touch keys 42, 44, 46, the test result is presented to the user 50, as shown in FIG. 1D. In this example, the test result 50 comprises a number indicating the glucose concentration reading, along with the concentration units 52 and the date 54 and time 56. In this example the indication of concentration 127 mg / dL, along with additional information which relates to a marker meal . In some embodiments, the user may use the scroll function 60 to scroll back and forth measurements performed by the testing device 10 in order to display the results of previous tests. This scroll function 60 is connected to at least one touch key. Such results of previous tests may be included in the log function, which allows the user to determine the date, time, and the concentrations of previous tests.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram generally illustrating the steps of inputting information relating to the automatic registration and the results obtained through the user interface 20. Generally, upon receiving health data from the user begins testing of health data, wherein the testing is performed for a certain period time. User instructed to enter information relating to health data, the user interface for a certain period of time, which corresponds to the test data on the health, such as the user is instructed to add comments within five seconds during the test. The user then inputs information relating to health data via the user interface, for example, by selecting a marker "before meal" or "postprandial". After completion of testing of health data measurement are displayed via the user interface. Furthermore, it may also be displayed information entered by the user, which relates to health data, i.e. "before meal" or "postprandial".

The main advantage of the automatic registration is that it provides the user with the opportunity to register his or her readings as data received or "eating up" or "postprandial". Dividing indications on category before / after a meal allows users to better analyze the effects of food on their indications of blood glucose levels. In some embodiments, the graphical elements can be used 37, 38, which simplify the selection process and provide users mark their readings as "before meal" or "postprandial" during the test. In this example, the token "before meal" corresponds to a whole apple and the marker "postprandial" is displayed in the form of stubs, however, with automatic registration can be used various graphics and / or text. In fact, the auto-registration automates the task of conducting a paper magazine majority of people with diabetes. Automatic registration also helps to attract the attention of health professionals to their patients how food affects the readings of blood glucose levels.

In some cases, when there is an urgent need to obtain test results, it may be required to circumvent the automatic registration to receive information regarding analyte concentration readings and other measurements of health data, without the need for user selection of one of the user-selectable options. This can be important when a user, for example, has developed hypoglycemia at which the amount of time spent obtaining results of the test device 10 becomes more critical. The user can decide to bypass the automatic registration by choosing "pass" (skip) the automatic registration to the test results are displayed quickly. Alternatively you can just press the button that will ensure the conclusion of the results before will start auto-registration. In some embodiments, the automatic recording function can be started after mapping critical health data. Thus, the user can be given three opportunities to perform input of information that is relevant to the functions of automatic registration: During the test, after the test or after the state "pass".

As indicated above, the present invention may use other types of health data to provide important information to the user about his disease. Health data, such as heart rate, blood pressure measurements, body temperature measurements, breathing measurements for COPD analysis, weight measurements for analyzing Lasix use, and the like, can be tested, analyzed and reported to the user via the user interface 20. For example, auto-registration can be used to provide the user with important details regarding the user heart rate, since it refers to one or more external factors, for example, if the user has recently ate, slept, do physical exercises, etc.

On the user interface 120 may be displayed in other functions, providing various types of information. One such function is shown in FIG. 2A-2D, which shows the test device 110 having a user interface 120 and the display 122. According to this feature, the user is prompted to make a choice, for example the required average readings from the list of selectable secondary indications. For example, FIG. 2A illustrates a user interface 120 which provides user selectable option: average 142 for "7 days" (7-day), the average of 144 for "14 days" (14-day) and an average 146 for "30 days" (30 -day). The user interface 120 also provides information on the target ranges for certain categories of evidence, for example, the target range of 150 to a meal and a target range of 152 after a meal. These ranges of 150, 152 may be default values ​​or may be dependent on user input. Thus, the user may be able to select from several averaging options: before meals for 7 days, after meals for 7 days, the overall mean for 7 days; before meals for 14 days, after meals for 14 days, the overall average for 14 days; before meals for 30 days, after meals for 30 days and the total average for 30 days. In some embodiments, the average reading of default may include, for example, only the average readings over 14 days. However, by communicating with an external device, such as, for example, a PC, a user can select the necessary averaging functionality via software running on the PC. The user can select other default settings and / or add additional functionality relating to automatic registration and averaging functions.

FIG. 2B-2D illustrates the user interface 120 after a user has selected an average reading to be displayed. For example, when the user selects the average 142 "7 days", user interface 120 displays the value 160 associated with the average for "7 days", for example 127 mg / dl, as shown in FIG. 2B. When the user selects an average of 144 for the "14 days", the user interface 120 displays the value 170 associated with the average for "14 days", for example 155 mg / dl, as shown in FIG. 2C. When the user selects an average of 146 "30 days", the user interface displays the value of 180 120, related to the average of the "30 days", such as 168 mg / dL. The user interface 120 may also indicate which of the indications displayed, ie "the results of the last 7 days" (7 Day Results), to remind the user what function the user selected averaging.

In addition to displaying the average readings, the illustrated embodiments shown in FIGS. 2A-2D, also reflect important information about the components of the average readings, such as "above" (above), "below" (below) and "for the purpose" (in target). This additional useful information may be displayed to the user to indicate the number of readings that fall within the target range 164, 174, 184, the number of readings that exceed the target range 162, 172, 182, and the number of readings that are below the target range 166, 176 , 186. In addition, the total number of readings 168, 178, 188, which is used to obtain an average value, may be displayed for each of the averaged readings.

In certain embodiments, such feature may be associated and displayed a variety of colors to assist in the perception of test results. As an example, red may be used to indicate readings below the target range, yellow may be used to indicate readings that exceed the target range, and green may be used to indicate readings which are in the target range. In general, red can be used for readings below the target range, as hypoglycemic state indicated in this indication, may be the greatest danger to the user. Furthermore, symbols may be used to graphically represent the location above, below and within target range. For example, as shown in FIG. 3, 90 sign arrow pointing up sign 92 and sign 94 ticks down arrow can be placed close to some readings, to graphically represent the evidence that above, below and within the target range, respectively. Such symbols can help the user to distinguish between different categories and perceive the relationship between the components that make up the average value. FIG. 3 also illustrates an example of a sequence of actions relating to the menu functions that the user can access. For example, the user can select the "Trends" (Trends), which allows the user to scroll up and down the average readings, for example, the average readings before meals and average readings after meals. As noted above, the user can use the 60 bar (denoted by triangles, pointing up and down) to scroll through the various types of secondary evidence or other statistical operations, and other types of information that can be obtained from the log function (Logbook), Trends (Trends) and Settings (Setup).

This feature, which indicates the number of readings that are within and outside the target range, provides useful information to the user, as well as a doctor or nurse, which allows a better assessment of the trend readings and identify potentially worrying indications that the user may want to apply. Furthermore, such a feature allows the user, physician or nurse to identify outlier data in testing results based on testing for a few days, that is 7, 14 or 30 days. This information is presented in an intuitive and widely understood manner so that the user can evaluate these results and make changes in the diet the user program of physical activity, etc., which can help reduce or eliminate the number of sightings and evidence outside the target range.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram generally illustrating the steps of entering information through the user interface 20 when performing statistical operations and obtaining a result. In general, upon receiving health data from the user inputs user information through the user interface (e.g., selection medium for 7 days, 14 days or 30 days). Depending on the information received from the user, a statistical operation, such as mean, standard deviation, etc., is performed with respect to health data. The result of statistical operations, such as the average reading of the concentration of the last 7 days is displayed in the user interface. It can also be displayed additional information or indicators reflecting detailed information concerning the health data, such as the number of readings that are within, above or below the target range.

The user interface 120 allows users to explore further and view the average reading of the memory for a specific indication, the average constituting evidence contained in the log function. This may be achieved by scroll buttons or by selecting the menu options. For example, the user may choose to display the average value and target range for the indication 150 after meal readings 152 or before meals. It has an additional beneficial effect of focusing greater attention on the user's diet and its relation to the testimony of the glucose concentration. It also allows the user to determine what evidence contribute more to the number of readings that are outside the target range, and allows users to make changes to the mode of its food. In general, aspects of the embodiments described herein make the process of entering information about health data easier, more intuitive process and provide the user with a better user experience. In addition, such embodiments, ultimately give the user a more accurate and complete information about his or her condition and will contribute to ensuring that users provide information in a way that it will become a regular part of their routine testing.

In addition to the averaging of readings, other embodiments may also perform other types of statistical operations in addition to or instead of the averaging function. For example, other types of statistical operations may include median values, modal values, standard deviations, confidence intervals, etc. Also, as indicated above relative to the automatic registration, the statistical operations may be used in other types of health data to provide important information to the user regarding the user of the disease. Health data, such as heart rate, blood pressure, body temperature, breathing measurements, weight measurements and the like, can be tested, analyzed and reported to the user via the user interface 20, 120. For example, the statistical operations may be used, to provide the user with important details relating to the heart rate of the user on the basis of values ​​obtained for 7, 14 or 30 days. This allows the user to view this data on the state of health in the context of other evidence obtained in a given time interval.

Other types of information can be entered by the user to add additional notes on health data. For example, a user may be able to introduce such remarks as "a day of exercise", "disease", "stress", "activity", "unwell", "trip", etc., to further identify factors that may influence for measuring health data. This labeling provides important information about lifestyle factors that increase the value of the data received by users. Predefined notes may be provided for convenience, or the user may be able to customize notes through the user interface 20, 120. In other embodiments, the user may create notes through a separate software system and upload the notes to the testing device 10 through a communication interface.

In general, the user interface 20, 120 may present different information in accordance with various features to facilitate operation of the testing device 10. For example, the user interface 20, 120 may provide a charge level indicator, which indicates the amount of power remaining in the battery testing device 10 . In addition, the user interface 20, 120 can display a countdown until the test instead of feeding an alarm signal, and can display a second clock to travel. In other embodiments, the user interface 20, 120 can display a question mark for the required or missing information. Furthermore, the size of the displayed data may vary depending on the type of data displayed and from where, during the test data are displayed. For example, the font size can vary the concentration indicated in the derivation of the values ​​of a larger display to the user immediately after the test, and then the font size values ​​may vary (ie, become smaller to fit on the display, along with additional information) immediately afterwards. Changing the size of the displayed data can also inform about the processing, or data logging.

As described above, the test devices according to aspects of the present invention may include interfaces to connect to external systems or devices. The ability to communicate with external systems or devices may allow the testing device to download data and / or software. In some embodiments, for example, the testing device 10 may be upgraded in place to provide an update or installation of inserts in the software installed on the testing device 10. The user interface 20, 120 may also be used to facilitate the process of downloading data, such as updated. For example, the user interface 20, 120 can check the availability of new or updated features via an icon on the display when the external system announces the availability of the testing device 10. The user can then start the transfer, through the user interface, new or updated features. In some cases, the user can control or monitor the transfer of such features, for example, by selecting a specific function from the menu of features available for download.

Text and images that appear on the user interface 20, 120, provide elements that improve the perception of the user's device. In some embodiments, the display 22, 122 may be tunable parameters. For example, the display 22, 122 may be a customizable background, background image and / or animated screensaver. In some embodiments, users can customize the appearance of the user interface 20, 120, setting their own figures, displayed on the screen, or by downloading the form display, provided by the manufacturer or by authorized third parties.

In addition, user interfaces 20, 120 may communicate information to the user and from the means of audio signals. For example, input / output interfaces may include a speech synthesizer, MP3 playback, etc. for transmitting audio information to the user. Further, input / output interfaces may also include a speech recognition mechanism to receive audio information from the user. In some embodiments, an audio interface (not shown) may be customized to use selected sounds, beeps, tones, tone sounds, voice MESSAGE tion etc.

In addition, user interfaces 20, 120 may provide access to various types of media content, such as content for a PDA (personal digital assistant), smart phones, etc. For example, the web browser available on the user interface 20, 120 may provide an additional interface to the functionality and features available through an Internet connection provides an interface connection to the testing device 10. The additional user interface functionality can be achieved through the introduction of the e-mail address or text messaging features. Other user-selectable audio-visual content can include music, movies, videos, video games, etc.

In general, the user interface 20, 120 may be configurable so that it can be adapted to personal preferences of the user. For example, in some embodiments, the user interface 20, 120 may be configured in many different languages. In one aspect, the data required for multi-language capability, should not be stored locally, as users will be able to download the language files via the communication interface, configuring their systems. Furthermore, in another example, the testing device may include a user interface capable of mirroring for easy configuration of left-handed and right-handed users. The user interface may be digitally reoriented via a touch screen.

In other embodiments, for the convenience of the user, the last screen that was used by the user can be displayed immediately after the resumption of the testing device 10, 110. In other words, the testing device 10, 110 can save the state of the display, including prior information input by the user through What the user will not have to navigate through the menu options. As described above, the test device described herein can be used in health monitoring system that connects the testing device with an external processing device that performs data management software. In addition, the testing device may take advantage of processing capabilities of the user interface device. Thus the ability to restore the state of the testing device 10, 110 may also be transmitted to an external processing unit, to data management software run on most recent screen or function called user. For example, if the user has recently caused a log function on the test device, data management software will run automatically according to the log function.

While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiments and methods according to the present invention have been shown by way of example in the drawings and described in detail herein. However, it should be understood that the invention is not limited to the particular forms or methods disclosed, but on the contrary, the intention is to extend the legal protection for all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the invention.