Mobile device and system for detection and communication of information received from an ingestible device

A mobile device for detecting an electrical signal generated by an ingestible event marker is disclosed. The mobile device includes a detection subsystem to receive an electrical signal generated by an ingestible event marker from a detection arrangement. A processing subsystem is coupled to the detection subsystem to decode the electrical signal. A radio subsystem is configured to transmit the decoded electrical signal to a wireless node. A system includes the mobile device and the detection arrangement. A method includes receiving the electrical signal generated by the ingestible event marker at the mobile device, decoding the electrical signal to extract information associated with the ingestible event marker, and transmitting the information to a wireless node.

INTRODUCTION

The present disclosure is related generally to a mobile device apparatus, system, and method for detecting a communication from another device, e.g., an ingestible device, an implantable device, an ingestible event marker (IEM), an implantable pulse generator such as a pacemaker, for example, a stent, an ingestible or implantable transceiver, among other devices. In the case of an ingestible event marker (IEM), for example, currently, a wearable patch device is worn by the patient to detect the ingestion of a medicinal dose comprising an IEM embedded therein. The present disclosure is related to a mobile device such as a handheld portable device, computer, mobile telephone, sometimes referred to as a smartphone, tablet personal computer (PC), kiosk, desktop computer, or laptop computer, or any combination thereof, configured to detect the ingestion of an IEM by a patient.

Generally, detecting the ingestion of an IEM device by a patient is done by detection electronics provided in the form factor of a wearable patch applied to an outer surface of the skin. The patch may include wet or dry electrodes which are made to contact the skin. An adhesive layer affixes the entire patch arrangement to the patient. When the IEM device is ingested by the patient and comes into contact with stomach fluids, the IEM device initiates a communication with the detection circuitry of the patch to indicate that the particular IEM device was ingested by the patient.

To address various issues associated with wearing a patch to detect the ingestion of an IEM device, there is a need to eliminate the patch and communicate directly to a mobile device. The mobile device provides IEM communication in a discreet private manner without the need for the patient to wear a patch.

SUMMARY

In one aspect, a mobile device for detecting an electrical signal generated by an ingestible event marker is provided. The mobile device comprises a detection subsystem to receive an electrical signal generated by an ingestible event marker from a detection arrangement. A processing subsystem is coupled to the detection subsystem to decode the electrical signal. A radio subsystem is configured to transmit the decoded electrical signal to a wireless node.

DESCRIPTION

In various aspects, the present disclosure is directed generally to an apparatus, system, and method employing a mobile device for detecting a communication from another device, e.g., an ingestible device, an implantable device, an ingestible event marker (IEM), an implantable pulse generator such as a pacemaker, for example, a stent, an ingestible or implantable transceiver, among other devices. In one aspect, the present disclosure provides a detection arrangement that may be wiredly and/or wirelessly coupled to a mobile device for detecting a communication from another device directly without employing a conventional detection patch (as described, for example, in Body-Associated Receiver and Method, filed Dec. 15, 2009, published as 2010-0312188 A1, the disclosure of which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety. Examples of such receivers are shown inFIGS. 25-30, as discussed hereinafter.) In one aspect, a detection circuit module may be integrated with the mobile device. In one aspect, the detection circuit module may be integrated within a housing and/or cradle removably attachable to the mobile device. In one aspect, the detection circuit module may be integrated within a conventional device, which may be wiredly and/or wirelessly coupled to the mobile device. In one particular example, the detection circuit module is configured to detect and receive information encoded in an electrical current signature generated by an IEM device when it contacts a conducting fluid, and more particularly, when the IEM device is ingested by a patient and comes into contact with the digestive fluids in the stomach. Examples of such IEM devices are shown inFIGS. 21-24, as discussed hereinafter.

It will be appreciated that the term “mobile device” may refer generally to any device which can be configured as a communication node for receiving a first communication from a first device and transmitting a second communication to a second device. In one aspect, the mobile device may comprise various physical or logical elements implemented as hardware, software, or any combination thereof, as desired for a given set of design parameters or performance constraints. In various aspects, the physical or logical elements may be connected by one or more communications media. For example, communication media may comprise wired communication media, wireless communication media, or a combination of both, as desired for a given implementation.

In various aspects, the mobile device or elements of the mobile device such as the physical or logical elements of the device may be incorporated in any suitable device including, without limitation, a personal digital assistant (PDA), laptop computer, ultra-laptop computer, combination cellular telephone/PDA, mobile unit, subscriber station, user terminal, portable computer, handheld computer, palmtop computer, wearable computer, media player, messaging device, data communication device, tablet computer, e-book reader, cellular telephone, pager, one-way pager, two-way pager, messaging device, data communication device, computers that are arranged to be worn by a person, such as a wrist computer, finger computer, ring computer, eyeglass computer, belt-clip computer, arm-band computer, shoe computers, clothing computers, and other wearable computers, media or multimedia controllers (e.g., audio and/or visual remote control devices), intelligent devices/appliances such as consumer and home devices and appliances that are capable of receipt of data such as physiologic data and perform other data-related functions, e.g., transmit, display, store, and/or process data, refrigerators, weight scales, toilets, televisions, door frame activity monitors, bedside monitors, bed scales, mobile telephones, portable telephones, eyeglasses, hearing aids, headwear (e.g., hats, caps, visors, helmets, goggles, earmuffs, headbands), wristbands, jewelry, furniture, and/or any suitable object that may be configured to incorporate the appropriate physical and/or logical elements for implementing the mobile device and to receive a first communication from a first device and transmit a second communication to a second device.

It will be appreciated that the term “medication” or “medicinal dose” as used throughout this disclosure may include, without limitation, various forms of ingestible, inhalable, injectable, absorbable, or otherwise consumable medicaments and/or carriers therefor such as, for example, pills, capsules, gel caps, placebos, over capsulation carriers or vehicles, herbal, over-the-counter (OTC) substances, supplements, prescription-only medication, and the like, to be taken in conjunction with an IEM.

For clarity of disclosure, these and other aspects of the present disclosure will now be described in conjunction with the associated figures. Accordingly, turning now toFIG. 1, where one aspect of a system100comprising a mobile device102(e.g., a first node) for detecting an electrical signal generated by an ingestible event marker104(IEM device) is illustrated. As shown, a living body such as a patient106is wearing a detection arrangement108in the form of earphones110wiredly connected to the mobile device102. In one aspect, the detection arrangement108comprises a right ear bud110R and a left ear bud110L wiredly coupled to the mobile device by respective electrical conducting cables112R,112L. As discussed in more detail below, the electrical conducting cables112R,112L are electrically coupled to a plug, which is configured to be received by a corresponding socket or jack connector of the mobile device102.

When the patient106ingests an IEM device104, the digestive fluids114in the stomach116activate the IEM device104to begin conducting a unique electrical current signature of various data, e.g., data identifying the IEM device104, data identifying the medication, etc. Various aspects of an IEM device are disclosed in commonly assigned applications Pharma-Informatics System, PCT Application No. PCT/US2006/16370 published as WO/2006/116718; Controlled Activation Ingestible Identifier, PCT Application No. PCT/US2007/82563 published as WO/2008/052136; Active Signal Processing Personal Health Signal Receivers, PCT Application No. PCT/US2007/24225 published as WO/2008/63626; Low Voltage Oscillator for Medical Devices, PCT Application No. PCT/US2007/22257 published as WO/2008/066617; Ingestible Event Marker Systems, PCT Application No. PCT/US2008/52845 published as WO/2008/095183; In-Body Power Source Having High Surface Area Electrode, PCT Application No. PCT/US2008/53999 published as WO/2008/101107; In-Body Device Having a Multi-Directional Transmitter, PCT Application No. PCT/US2008/56296 published as WO/2008/112577; In-Body Device Having Deployable Antenna, PCT Application No. PCT/US2008/56299 published as WO/2008/112578; and In-Body Device with Virtual Dipole Signal Amplification, PCT Application No. PCT/US2008/77753 published as WO 2009/042812; the disclosures of which applications are herein incorporated by reference. Smart parenteral delivery systems are described in PCT application serial no. PCT/US2007/015547 published as WO 2008/008281; each of the foregoing disclosures is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety. The IEM device104conducts when in the process of being consumed by the digestive fluids114in the stomach116. In various aspects, IEM devices104may be configured to communicate continuously or intermittently while being consumed. Additionally, the IEM device104may be wholly or partially consumed. In various aspects, for example, an IEM device104or components thereof may pass through a patient's system. In other aspects, an IEM device104may be configured to be selectively activated, deactivated, and/or reactivated. The architecture and operation of a typical IEM device104is explained in more detail below in connection withFIG. 21. The electrical current signature generated by the IEM device104while disintegrating in the digestive fluids114is detectable by the detection arrangement108coupled to the patient106. Each of the ear buds110R,110L comprises a conducting electrode portion300R as shown inFIGS. 3A, 3Bfor the right ear bud110R.

With reference now toFIGS. 1, 3A, and 3B, the conducting electrode portion300R of the right ear bud110R and300L of the left ear bud110L (not shown) are coupled to the skin of the patient106and detect the minute electrical current signature generated by the dissolving IEM device104. The electrodes300R,300L electrically couple the IEM device104(FIGS. 1 and 2) signal to the detection circuitry in the mobile device102. The detection arrangement108in the form of ear buds110R,110L may be used to support periodic detection of ingestion of an IEM device104.

In use, the patient106inserts the ear buds110R,110L in corresponding ears and connects the plug into a corresponding connector located on the mobile device102. The electrodes300contact the skin of the patient106to pick up the current signal generated by the IEM device104. Once the detection arrangement is in place, an application is launched on the mobile device102and the patient106takes their medication, which includes the IEM device104. The application may be launched automatically upon detection of the ear buds110R,110L, electrodes300, and the like, or may be launched by the user selection using conventional techniques such as mouse over and click, pushbutton switch activation, virtual pushbutton switch activation, voice recognition, vibration, tapping user interface screen, orientation of the device, for example. When the IEM device104reaches the stomach116, it begins to dissolve in the digestive fluids114and initiates communication of a unique electrical current signature, which is detected by the electrodes300located on the ear buds110R,110L. The signal is coupled to detection circuitry in the mobile device102and the ingestion of the IEM device104is confirmed or the application simply times out due to no detection. The patient106is then free to remove the ear buds110R,110L. In one aspect, the ear buds110R,110L may be used to pipe sound so that the patient106may be engaged by music, news feed, or other sounds while waiting for the IEM device104to be detected by the mobile device102. In another aspect, an audible signal may alert the patient106to remove the ear buds110R,110L at the end of the process.

It will be appreciated that the form factor of the detection arrangement108is configured to look like a familiar object such that the patient106can readily interact with it and will not feel a stigma associated with wearing the detection arrangement108. For example, the ear buds110R,110L will not lead to a stigma about requiring observed therapy because they blend into standard everyday electronics with which people are quite familiar and often use.

In one aspect, the patient106may be instructed to place the ear buds110R,110L on prior to taking the medicinal dose comprising the IEM device104to assure that the detection electrodes300are in place prior to the occurrence of the detectable event. It also minimizes opportunities for the patient106getting distracted after taking the medicinal dose and forgetting to attach the detection electrodes300associated with the ear buds110R,110L. It also minimizes anxiety that detection may be missed and rushing to locate the detector. The techniques described herein also free the patient's106hands for subsequent handling of the medicinal doses and for subsequent activity after taking the medicinal doses while waiting for the detection to take place.

With reference back toFIG. 1, the mobile device102acts as a first node for the detection of the unique current signature generated by the IEM104. In response to detection of the unique current signature generated by the IEM device104, the mobile device102may perform a number of functions. In one aspect, the mobile device102may store the time and date when the unique current signature was detected, which corresponds approximately to the time and date when the IEM device104was ingested by the patient106. In addition, the mobile device102may store information encoded in the unique electrical current signature. For example, the identity of the IEM device104, the type of medication associated with the IEM device104, the manufacturer of the medication and/or IEM device104, among other information, may be encoded by the unique electrical current signature, without limitation.

The mobile device102may transmit the detected information associated with the IEM device104to a wireless node120(e.g., a second node). The wireless node120may comprise, for example, a mobile station or fixed station having wireless capabilities. Examples for the wireless node120may include any of the examples given for the mobile device102, and further may include a wireless access point, base station or node, base station radio/transceiver, router, switch, hub, gateway, and so forth. In one aspect, for example, the wireless node120may comprise a base station for a cellular radiotelephone communications system. Although some aspects may be described with the wireless node120implemented as a base station by way of example, it may be appreciated that other aspects may be implemented using other wireless devices as well. The wireless node120may be a communication hub, access point, another mobile device, and so on. Accordingly, the wireless node120may act as a local access point to wide area networks such as the Internet to communicate the information received from the IEM device104to a node122, which is remotely located from the first and second nodes, e.g., the mobile device102and the wireless node120, respectively. The remote node122may be a healthcare facility (physician's office, hospital, pharmacy), drug manufacturer, nutrition center, back end patient healthcare data processing facility, and the like.

In one aspect, the mobile device102communicates with the wireless node120over a wireless medium124. In various aspects, the mobile device102and the wireless node120may comprise or be implemented by a wireless device. The wireless device generally may comprise various physical or logical elements implemented as hardware, software, or any combination thereof, as desired for a given set of design parameters or performance constraints. In various aspects, the physical or logical elements may be connected by one or more communications media. For example, communication media may comprise wired communication media, wireless communication media, or a combination of both, as desired for a given implementation.

In various implementations, the described aspects of the mobile device102and/or the wireless node120may comprise part of a cellular communication system. In one aspect, the mobile device102and the wireless node120may provide voice and/or data communications functionality in accordance with different types of cellular radiotelephone systems. Examples of cellular communication systems may include Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) cellular radiotelephone communication systems, Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) cellular radiotelephone systems, North American Digital Cellular (NADC) cellular radiotelephone systems, Time Division Multiple Access (TDMA) cellular radiotelephone systems, Extended-TDMA (E-TDMA) cellular radiotelephone systems, Narrowband Advanced Mobile Phone Service (NAMPS) cellular radiotelephone systems, third generation (3G) systems such as Wide-band CDMA (WCDMA), CDMA-2000, Universal Mobile Telephone System (UMTS) cellular radiotelephone systems compliant with the Third-Generation Partnership Project (3GPP), fourth generation systems (4G), and so forth.

In addition to voice communication services, the mobile device102and the wireless node120may be arranged to communicate using a number of different wireless wide area network (WWAN) data communication services. Examples of cellular data communication systems offering WWAN data communication services may include GSM with General Packet Radio Service (GPRS) systems (GSM/GPRS), CDMA/1×RTT systems, Enhanced Data Rates for Global Evolution (EDGE) systems, Evolution Data Only or Evolution Data Optimized (EV-DO) systems, Evolution For Data and Voice (EV-DV) systems, High Speed Downlink Packet Access (HSDPA) systems, and so forth.

In one aspect, the wireless node120may be connected by wired communications medium to additional nodes and connections to other networks, including a voice/data network such as the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN), a packet network such as the Internet, a local area network (LAN), a metropolitan area network (MAN), a wide area network (WAN), an enterprise network, a private network, and so forth. In one aspect, for example, network130may be arranged to communicate information in accordance with one or more Internet protocols as defined by the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF), such as the Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP), for example. The network also may include other cellular radio telephone system infrastructure and equipment, such as base stations, mobile subscriber centers, central offices, and so forth.

In various aspects, the mobile device102and the wireless node120also may be capable of voice and/or data communications. Communications between the mobile device102and the wireless node120may be performed over wireless shared media124in accordance with a number of wireless protocols. Examples of wireless protocols may include various wireless local area network (WLAN) protocols, including the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) 802.xx series of protocols, such as IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n, IEEE 802.16, IEEE 802.20, and so forth. Other examples of wireless protocols may include various WWAN protocols, such as GSM cellular radiotelephone system protocols with GPRS, CDMA cellular radiotelephone communication systems with 1×RTT, EDGE systems, EV-DO systems, EV-DV systems, HSDPA systems, and so forth. Further examples of wireless protocols may include wireless personal area network (PAN) protocols, such as an Infrared protocol, a protocol from the Bluetooth Special Interest Group (SIG) series of protocols, including Bluetooth Specification versions v1.0, v1.1, v1.2, v2.0, v2.0 with Enhanced Data Rate (EDR), as well as one or more Bluetooth Profiles, and so forth. In one aspect, the Bluetooth wireless technology uses short wavelength radio transmissions in the industrial, scientific, and medical (ISM) radio band from 2400-2480 MHz) from fixed and mobile devices, creating personal area networks (PANs) with high levels of security. Yet another example of wireless protocols may include near-field communication techniques and protocols, such as electro-magnetic induction (EMI) techniques. An example of EMI techniques may include passive or active radio-frequency identification (RFID) protocols and devices. Other suitable protocols may include Ultra Wide Band (UWB), Digital Office (DO), Digital Home, Trusted Platform Module (TPM), ZigBee, and other protocols.

In various aspects, the mobile device102may have one or more application client modules. In one aspect, an application client module receives information from the detection arrangement108and process the information to confirm that the patient106has ingested the IEM device104. The application client module records a time and date that the IEM device104was detected, which corresponds approximately to the time and date when the IEM device104was ingested by the patient106. In addition, client application module may store information encoded in the unique electrical current signature such as the identity of the IEM device104, the type of medication associated with the IEM device104, the manufacturer of the medication and/or IEM device104, among other information. In some aspects, the client application module may implement a data logging function tracking the ingestible events associated with the patient106. The client application module can initiate communication with other devices and/or networks.

Other client application modules may be arranged to retrieve and process information from a network (e.g., servers) and display the information on a display or audibly announce the information by way of speaker. The mobile device102may be implemented as an open platform adaptable to execute one or more application client programs and integrate with third party software application client programs. The application client modules may provide the necessary interface to existing data sources or backend services, such as web related and wireless services, support GPS navigation modules, process browser based content, and operate with one or more wireless mobile computing devices and web applications, for example. In one aspect, the application client modules may integrate with third party application client programs via APIs to retrieve location information, such as, for example, geographic coordinates, map interfaces, queries for search engines, interfaces to third party location based services (LBS), and any other services provided via servers, and the like. The application client modules may include a user interface layer to process search queries, search results, display maps (e.g., zoom/pan), provide turn-by-turn directions, provide voice activated turn-by-turn directions, and provide permission based interface for LBS type location information, among others. The application client modules also may include an interface layer to process local information, point of interface (POI) data, and a data abstraction layer to process map data, for example. The application client modules also may process data from various data sources or backend services distributed throughout a network (e.g., servers) such as, for example, GPS integrated circuits located either on or off the mobile device500, carrier AGPS, various prolific search engines (e.g., GOOGLE, YAHOO, and the like), vector data, tile data, among others, for example. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that tile data may be defined as a spatial unit representing a sub-region of an image, usually of rectangular nature, by which geographic data is organized, subdivided, and stored in a map library.

In one aspect, for example, the mobile device102may employ a software architecture for retrieving and processing information from a communications network. The software architecture may enable the mobile device102to communicate and process information from the network and servers, for example. The software architecture includes component implementations and specifies standard programmatic interfaces such as APIs to assist in the common requirements of retrieving information wirelessly between an application client and multiple data source servers. As a result, the software architecture may provide a method to enable application clients to interact with disparate data providers.

In one aspect, for example, the software architecture may be implemented using object-oriented programming (OOP) techniques. OOP is a computer programming paradigm. OOP assumes that a computer program is composed of a collection of individual units, or objects, as opposed to a traditional assumption that a program is a list of instructions to the computer. Each object is capable of receiving messages, processing data, and sending messages to other objects. Almost any concept may be represented as an object. Examples of an object may include menu objects, image objects, frame objects, title objects, border objects, tab objects, list objects, color blue objects, button objects, scroll bar objects, input field objects, text and image objects, and so forth. Although the software architecture may be described in the context of OOP by way of example, it may be appreciated that other software paradigms may be used as desired for a given implementation. For example, the software architecture may be implemented using a model-view-controller (MVC) architecture as well. The aspects are not limited in this context.

As shown, the wireless node120may comprise an optional display126. The display126may be implemented using any type of visual interface such as a liquid crystal display (LCD), capacitive touch screen panel, and the like.

As shown, the wireless node120may comprise a memory128. In various aspects, the memory128may comprise any machine-readable or computer-readable media capable of storing data, including both volatile and non-volatile memory. For example, memory may include read-only memory (ROM), random-access memory (RAM), dynamic RAM (DRAM), Double-Data-Rate DRAM (DDR-RAM), synchronous DRAM (SDRAM), static RAM (SRAM), programmable ROM (PROM), erasable programmable ROM (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable ROM (EEPROM), flash memory (e.g., NOR or NAND flash memory), content addressable memory (CAM), polymer memory (e.g., ferroelectric polymer memory), phase-change memory (e.g., ovonic memory), ferroelectric memory, silicon-oxide-nitride-oxide-silicon (SONOS) memory, disk memory (e.g., floppy disk, hard drive, optical disk, magnetic disk), or card (e.g., magnetic card, optical card), or any other type of media suitable for storing information.

The wireless node120may comprise a processor130such as a central processing unit (CPU). In various aspects, the processor130may be implemented as a general purpose processor, a chip multiprocessor (CMP), a dedicated processor, an embedded processor, a digital signal processor (DSP), a network processor, a media processor, an input/output (I/O) processor, a media access control (MAC) processor, a radio baseband processor, a co-processor, a microprocessor such as a complex instruction set computer (CISC) microprocessor, a reduced instruction set computing (RISC) microprocessor, and/or a very long instruction word (VLIW) microprocessor, or other processing device. The processor510also may be implemented by a controller, a microcontroller, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), a programmable logic device (PLD), and so forth.

In various aspects, the processor130may be arranged to run an operating system (OS) and various mobile applications. Examples of an OS include, for example, operating systems generally known under the trade name of Microsoft Windows OS, and any other proprietary or open source OS. Examples of mobile applications include, for example, a telephone application, a camera (e.g., digital camera, video camera) application, a browser application, a multimedia player application, a gaming application, a messaging application (e.g., e-mail, short message, multimedia), a viewer application, and so forth.

In various aspects, the processor130may be arranged to receive information through a communications interface132. The communications interface132may comprise any suitable hardware, software, or combination of hardware and software that is capable of coupling the wireless node120to one or more networks and/or devices. In one aspect, the wireless node120is in wireless communication with the mobile device102via the wireless medium124. The wireless node120also may communicate with the remote node122via a wired communication medium134or a wireless communication medium136. The communications interface132may be arranged to operate using any suitable technique for controlling information signals using a desired set of communications protocols, services or operating procedures. The communications interface138may include the appropriate physical connectors to connect with a corresponding communications medium, whether wired or wireless.

Vehicles of communication include a network. In various aspects, the network may comprise LANs as well as WANs including without limitation Internet, wired channels, wireless channels, communication devices including telephones, computers, wire, radio, optical or other electromagnetic channels, and combinations thereof, including other devices and/or components capable of/associated with communicating data. For example, the communication environments include in-body communications, various devices, various modes of communications such as wireless communications, wired communications, and combinations of the same.

Wireless communication modes include any mode of communication between points that utilizes, at least in part, wireless technology including various protocols and combinations of protocols associated with wireless transmission, data, and devices. The points include, for example, wireless devices such as wireless headsets, audio and multimedia devices and equipment, such as audio players and multimedia players, telephones, including mobile telephones and cordless telephones, and computers and computer-related devices and components, such as tablet computers, printers.

Wired communication modes include any mode of communication between points that utilizes wired technology including various protocols and combinations of protocols associated with wired transmission, data, and devices. The points include, for example, devices such as audio and multimedia devices and equipment, such as audio players and multimedia players, telephones, including mobile telephones and cordless telephones, and computers and computer-related devices and components, such as tablet computers, printers.

Accordingly, in various aspects, the communications interface138may comprise one or more interfaces such as, for example, a wireless communications interface, a wired communications interface, a network interface, a transmit interface, a receive interface, a media interface, a system interface, a component interface, a switching interface, a chip interface, a controller, and so forth. When implemented by a wireless device or within wireless system, for example, the local node120may include a wireless communication interface132comprising one or more antennas133, transmitters, receivers, transceivers, amplifiers, filters, control logic, and so forth.

In various aspects, the wireless node120may comprise the functionality to wirelessly receive and/or wirelessly transmit data received from the mobile device102and transmit that data to other nodes, such as the external node122or other nearby nodes, for example. Further, in various aspects, the wireless node120may incorporate and/or be associated with, e.g., communicate with, various devices. Such devices may generate, receive, and/or communicate data, e.g., physiologic data. The devices include, for example, “intelligent” devices such as gaming devices, e.g., electronic slot machines, handheld electronic games, electronic components associated with games and recreational activities.

In addition to the standard voice function of a telephone, various aspects of mobile telephones may support many additional services and accessories such as short message service (SMS) for text messaging, email, packet switching for access to the Internet, java gaming, wireless, e.g., short range data/voice communications, infrared, camera with video recorder, and multimedia messaging system (MMS) for sending and receiving photos and video. Some aspects of mobile telephones connect to a cellular network of base stations (cell sites), which is, in turn, interconnected to the public switched telephone network (PSTN) or satellite communications in the case of satellite phones. Various aspects of mobile telephones can connect to the Internet, at least a portion of which can be navigated using the mobile telephones.

In one aspect, the wireless node120may be configured as a communication hub and may include any hardware device, software, and/or communications component(s), as well as systems, subsystems, and combinations of the same which generally function to communicate information received from the mobile device102to the remote node122. Communication of the information includes receiving, storing, manipulating, displaying, processing, and/or transmitting the data to the remote node122via wired or wireless media134,136.

In various aspects, the wireless node120also functions to communicate, e.g., receive and transmit, non-physiologic data. Example of non-physiologic data include gaming rules and data generated by a separate cardiac-related device such as an implanted pacemaker and communicated to the hub (local node120) directly or indirectly, e.g., via the mobile device102.

Broad categories of each of the mobile device102and/or the wireless node120include, for example, base stations, personal communication devices, handheld devices, mobile telephones, and mobile computing devices having wireless capabilities generally known as smartphones capable of executing computer applications, as well as voice communications and/or data communications. Examples of mobile computing devices include any type of wireless device, mobile station, or portable computing device with a self-contained power source, e.g., battery. Examples of smartphones include, for example, products generally known under the trade designations Palm, Blackberry, iPhone, Android, Windows Phone, among others. In various aspects, the mobile device102and/or the wireless node120may comprise, or be implemented as, a PDA, laptop computer, ultra-laptop computer, combination cellular telephone/PDA, mobile unit, subscriber station, user terminal, portable computer, handheld computer, palmtop computer, wearable computer, media player, messaging device, data communication device, tablet computer, e-book reader, cellular telephone, pager, one-way pager, two-way pager, messaging device, data communication device, and so forth. Examples of a mobile device102and/or wireless node120also may include computers that are arranged to be worn by a person, such as a wrist computer, finger computer, ring computer, eyeglass computer, belt-clip computer, arm-band computer, shoe computers, clothing computers, and other wearable computers. A fixed computing device, for example, may be implemented as a desk top computer, workstation, client/server computer, and so forth.

The mobile device102and/or wireless node120may comprise personal communication devices including, for example, devices having communication and computer functionality and typically intended for individual use, e.g., mobile computers, sometimes referred to as “handheld devices.” Base stations comprise any device or appliance capable of receiving data such as physiologic data. Examples include computers, such as desktop computers and laptop computers, and intelligent devices/appliances. Intelligent devices/appliances include consumer and home devices and appliances that are capable of receipt of data such as physiologic data. Intelligent devices/appliances may also perform other data-related functions, e.g., transmit, display, store, and/or process data. Examples of intelligent devices/appliances include refrigerators, weight scales, toilets, televisions, door frame activity monitors, bedside monitors, bed scales. Such devices and appliances may include additional functionality such as sensing or monitoring various physiologic data, e.g., weight, heart rate. Mobile telephones include telephonic communication devices associated with various mobile technologies, e.g., cellular networks.

As shown inFIG. 1, the wireless node120is in communication with a remote node122. The remote node122comprises a processing system138communicatively coupled to a database140. Information associated with patients, including identity and medication types and doses, may be stored in the database140. In one aspect, the processing system138receives information from the mobile device102via the wireless node120and accesses the information in the database140to provide information to the care provider through the wireless node120and/or the mobile device102. The remote node122can communicate various information; for example, identification information such as a photo of the patient for identification, a photo of the IEM device104before it is ingested, the type of medication combined with the IEM device104, as well as confirmation of the type and dose of medication that the patient ingested. The wireless node120can communicate with the remote node122using any mode and frequency of communication that is available at the site, such as wireless, G2, G3, G4, real-time, periodically based on predetermined time delays, as well as store and forward at later time.

Vehicles of communication between the wireless node120and the remote node122include a network. In various aspects, the network may comprise a LAN as well as a WAN including without limitation Internet, wired channels, wireless channels, communication devices including telephones, computers, wire, radio, optical or other electromagnetic channels, and combinations thereof, including other devices and/or components capable of/associated with communicating data. For example, the communication environments include in-body communications, various devices, various modes of communications such as wireless communications, wired communications, and combinations of the same.

The processing system138at the remote node122may comprise servers configured as desired, e.g., to provide for subject directed permissions. For example, the servers may be configured to allow a family caregiver to participate in the subject's therapeutic regimen, e.g., via an interface (such as a web interface) that allows the family caregiver to monitor alerts and trends generated by the server, and provide support back to the patient. The servers also may be configured to provide responses directly to the subject, e.g., in the form of subject alerts, subject incentives, which are relayed to the subject via the communication device. The servers also may interact with a health care professional, e.g., RN, physician, which can use data processing algorithms to obtain measures of health and compliance of the subject, e.g., wellness index summaries, alerts, cross-patient benchmarks, and provide informed clinical communication and support back to the patient. The servers also may interact with pharmacies, nutrition centers, and drug manufactures.

In one aspect, the remote node122may store information received from the mobile device102in the database140. Such information may comprise the approximate time and date stamp when the IEM device104was ingested by the patient106. In addition, an identification number such as a serial number, for example, associated with the IEM device104, the individual patient identification, the source of the medication, and the expiration date or shelf life of the medication combined with the IEM device104may be stored in the database140.

FIG. 2illustrates one aspect of the system200comprising a mobile device102for detecting an electrical signal generated by an ingestible event marker, such as the IEM device104(FIG. 1), for example. In one aspect, shortly after the IEM device104is ingested by the patient106, the IEM device104communicates information to the mobile device102via the detection arrangement108wiredly connected to the mobile device102. The mobile device102communicates with a cellular tower202and base station204and can access the Internet206via a cellular network208. Accordingly, information received by the mobile device102from the IEM device104can be communicated to the remote node122via the Internet206through the cellular network208. The processing system138at the remote node122receives the information from the mobile device102and may store it in the database140.

In another aspect, the mobile device102communicates with a local wireless access point210(e.g., Wi-Fi), which is coupled to a LAN212. The LAN212is coupled to a WAN such as the Internet206, which is coupled to the remotely located remote node122. Upon detecting the unique electrical current signature generated by the IEM device104, the mobile device102can communicate the information to the processing system138at the remote node122via the access point210, LAN212, and Internet206. The processing system134stores the information in the database140. The remote node122can access other networks214for additional processing of the information associated with the IEM device104stored in the database140.

In another aspect, the mobile device102may transmit information associated with the IEM device104to another mobile device. The other mobile device then communicates with the cellular tower202, base station204, cellular network208, and the Internet206to the remote node122. In another aspect, the other mobile device communicates with the access point210, LAN212, and the Internet206to the remote node122. Once communication is established with the remote node122, the information associated with the IEM device104can be processed by the processing system and/or stored in the database140.

FIG. 4illustrates one aspect of a system400comprising a detection arrangement108in the form of earphones110wiredly coupled to a mobile device102for detecting an electrical signal generated by an ingestible event marker device. As shown inFIG. 4the detection arrangement108comprises ear buds110R,110L coupled by electrical conductors112R,112L to a plug402. The plug402is received in a corresponding data port socket or jack connector404portion of the mobile device102. The mobile device102comprises a housing406, a display408, an input/output (I/O) system410, an aperture412for capturing digital images, and an antenna414. The functional modules of the mobile device102are described below in connection withFIG. 5.

The display408may comprise any suitable display unit for displaying information appropriate for a mobile device102. The I/O system410may comprise any suitable I/O device for entering information into the mobile device102. Examples for the I/O system410may include an alphanumeric keyboard, a numeric keypad, a touch pad, a capacitive touch screen panel, input keys, buttons, switches, rocker switches, voice recognition device and software, and so forth. The I/O system410may comprise a microphone and speaker, for example. Information also may be entered into the mobile device102by way of the microphone. Such information may be digitized by a voice recognition device.

FIG. 5illustrates a system diagram of one aspect of a mobile device500for detecting an electrical signal generated by an ingestible event marker, such as the IEM device104(FIGS. 1 and 2), for example, configured to couple to an external detection arrangement.FIG. 5illustrates a more detailed block diagram of the mobile computing device102described with reference toFIGS. 1, 2, 4. As shown inFIG. 5, for example, the mobile device500may comprise multiple elements. AlthoughFIG. 5shows a limited number of elements in a certain topology by way of example, it can be appreciated that additional or fewer elements in any suitable topology may be used in the mobile device500as desired for a given implementation. Furthermore, any element as described herein may be implemented using hardware, software, or a combination of both, as previously described with reference to node implementations. Aspects of the mobile device500, however, are not limited in this context.

In various aspects, the mobile device500comprises a housing406, an antenna414, a radio subsystem514, and a processing subsystem512connected to the radio subsystem514via a bus. The radio subsystem514may perform voice and data communications operations using wireless shared media for the mobile device500. The processing subsystem512may execute software for the mobile device500. A bus may comprise a universal serial bus (USB), micro-USB bus, dataport, and appropriate interfaces, as well as others. In one aspect the radio subsystem514may be arranged to communicate voice information and control information over one or more assigned frequency bands of the wireless shared media.

In one aspect, the mobile device500may comprise an imaging subsystem508for processing images captured through the aperture412. A camera may be coupled (e.g., wired or wirelessly) to the processing subsystem512and is configured to output image data (photographic data of a person or thing, e.g., video data, digital still image data) to the processing subsystem512and to the display408. In one aspect, the imaging subsystem508may comprise a digital camera implemented as an electronic device used to capture and store images electronically in a digital format. Additionally, in some aspects the digital camera may be capable of recording sound and/or video in addition to still images.

In one aspect, the imaging subsystem508may comprise a controller to provide control signals to components of a digital camera, including lens position component, microphone position component, and a flash control module, to provide functionality for the digital camera. In some aspects, the controller may be implemented as, for example, a host processor element of the processing subsystem512of the mobile device500. Alternatively, the imaging controller may be implemented as a separate processor from the host processor.

In various aspects, the imaging subsystem508may comprise memory either as an element of the processing subsystem512of the mobile device500or as a separate element. It is worthy to note that in various aspects some portion or the entire memory may be included on the same integrated circuit as the controller. Alternatively, some portion or the entire memory may be disposed on an integrated circuit or other medium (e.g., hard disk drive) external to the integrated circuit of the controller.

In various aspects, the imaging subsystem508may comprise an aperture412with a lens component and a lens position component. The lens component may consist of a photographic or optical lens or arrangement of lenses made of a transparent material such as glass, plastic, acrylic or Plexiglass, for example. In one aspect, the one or more lens elements of the lens component may reproduce an image of an object and allow for zooming in or out on the object by mechanically changing the focal length of the lens elements. In various aspects, a digital zoom may be employed in the imaging subsystem508to zoom in or out on an image. In some aspects, the one or more lens elements may be used to focus on different portions of an image by varying the focal length of the lens elements. The desired focus can be obtained with an autofocus feature of the digital imaging subsystem508or by manually focusing on the desired portion of the image, for example.

A navigation subsystem510supports navigation using the mobile device500. In various aspects the mobile device500may comprise location or position determination capabilities and may employ one or more location determination techniques including, for example, Global Positioning System (GPS) techniques, Cell Global Identity (CGI) techniques, CGI including timing advance (TA) techniques, Enhanced Forward Link Trilateration (EFLT) techniques, Time Difference of Arrival (TDOA) techniques, Angle of Arrival (AOA) techniques, Advanced Forward Link Trilateration (AFTL) techniques, Observed Time Difference of Arrival (OTDOA), Enhanced Observed Time Difference (EOTD) techniques, Assisted GPS (AGPS) techniques, hybrid techniques (e.g., GPS/CGI, AGPS/CGI, GPS/AFTL or AGPS/AFTL for CDMA networks, GPS/EOTD or AGPS/EOTD for GSM/GPRS networks, GPS/OTDOA or AGPS/OTDOA for UMTS networks), among others.

In one aspect, the mobile device500may be configured to operate in one or more location determination modes including, for example, a standalone mode, a mobile station (MS) assisted mode, and/or a MS-based mode. In a standalone mode, such as a standalone GPS mode, the mobile device500may be configured to determine its position without receiving wireless navigation data from the network, though it may receive certain types of position assist data, such as almanac, ephemeris, and coarse data. In a standalone mode, the mobile device500may comprise a local location determination circuit such as a GPS receiver which may be integrated within the housing406configured to receive satellite data via the antenna414and to calculate a position fix. Local location determination circuit may alternatively comprise a GPS receiver in a second housing separate from the housing406but in the vicinity of the mobile device500and configured to communicate with the mobile device500wirelessly (e.g., via a PAN, such as Bluetooth). When operating in an MS-assisted mode or an MS-based mode, however, the mobile device500may be configured to communicate over a radio access network (e.g., UMTS radio access network) with a remote computer (e.g., a location determination entity (LDE), a location proxy server (LPS) and/or a mobile positioning center (MPC), among others).

A detection subsystem516is coupled to a connector404, which is configured to receive the plug402(FIG. 4) portion of the detection arrangement108. The detection subsystem516detects the unique current signature generated by the IEM device104(FIGS. 1, 2), which encodes the information associated with the IEM device, the medication, and/or the patient, among other information. The detection subsystem516is coupled to the processing subsystem512and provides the decoded information to the processing subsystem512. The processing subsystem512activates the radio subsystem514to communicate the decoded IEM information to the wireless node120(FIGS. 1, 2) and/or the cellular network208(FIG. 2). The detection subsystem516is described in more detail below in connection withFIGS. 6 and 7.

In various aspects, the mobile device500also may comprise a power management subsystem (not shown) to manage power for the mobile device500, including the radio subsystem514, the processing subsystem512, and other elements of the mobile device500. For example, the power management subsystem may include one or more batteries to provide direct current (DC) power, and one or more alternating current (AC) interfaces to draw power from a standard AC main power supply.

In various aspects, the radio subsystem514may include an antenna414. The antenna414may broadcast and receive RF energy over the wireless shared media124(FIG. 1). Examples for the antenna414may include an internal antenna, an omni-directional antenna, a monopole antenna, a dipole antenna, an end fed antenna, a circularly polarized antenna, a micro-strip antenna, a diversity antenna, a dual antenna, an antenna array, a helical antenna, and so forth. The aspects are not limited in this context.

In various aspects, the antenna414may be connected to a multiplexer. The multiplexer multiplexes signals from a power amplifier for delivery to the antenna414. The multiplexer demultiplexes signals received from the antenna for delivery to an RF chipset.

In various aspects, the multiplexer may be connected to a power amplifier, where the power amplifier may be used to amplify any signals to be transmitted over the wireless shared media124(FIG. 1). The power amplifier may work in all assigned frequency bands, such as four (4) frequency bands in a quad-band system. The power amplifier also may operate in various modulation modes, such as Gaussian Minimum Shift Keying (GMSK) modulation suitable for GSM systems and 8-ary Phase Shift Keying (8-PSK) modulation suitable for EDGE systems.

In various aspects, the power amplifier may be connected to an RF chipset. The RF chipset also may be connected to the multiplexer. In one aspect, the RF chipset may comprise an RF driver and an RF transceiver. The RF chipset performs all of the modulation and direct conversion operations required for GMSK and 8-PSK signal types for quad-band E-GPRS radio. The RF chipset receives analog in-phase (I) and quadrature (Q) signals from a baseband processor, and converts the I/O signals to an RF signal suitable for amplification by the power amplifier. Similarly, the RF chipset converts the signals received from the wireless shared media124(FIG. 1) via the antenna414and the multiplexer to analog I/O signals to be sent to the baseband processor. Although the RF chipset may use two chips by way of example, it may be appreciated that the RF chipset may be implemented using more or less chips and still fall within the intended scope of the aspects.

In various aspects, the RF chipset may be connected to the baseband processor, where the baseband processor may perform baseband operations for the radio subsystem514. The baseband processor may comprise both analog and digital baseband sections. The analog baseband section includes I/O filters, analog-to-digital converters, digital-to-analog converters, audio circuits, and other circuits. The digital baseband section may include one or more encoders, decoders, equalizers/demodulators, GMSK modulators, GPRS ciphers, transceiver controls, automatic frequency control (AFC), automatic gain control (AGC), power amplifier (PA) ramp control, and other circuits.

In various aspects, the baseband processor also may be connected to one or more memory units via a memory bus. In one aspect, for example, the baseband processor may be connected to a flash memory unit and a secure digital (SD) memory unit. The memory units may be removable or non-removable memory. In one aspect, for example, the baseband processor may use approximately 1.6 megabytes of static read-only memory (SRAM) for E-GPRS and other protocol stack needs.

In various aspects, the baseband processor also may be connected to a subscriber identity module (SIM). The baseband processor may have a SIM interface for the SIM, where the SIM may comprise a smart card that encrypts voice and data transmissions and stores data about the specific user so that the user can be identified and authenticated to the network supplying voice or data communications. The SIM also may store data such as personal phone settings specific to the user and phone numbers. The SIM can be removable or non-removable.

In various aspects, the baseband processor may further include various interfaces for communicating with a host processor of the processing subsystem512. For example, the baseband processor may have one or more universal asynchronous receiver-transmitter (UART) interfaces, one or more control/status lines to the host processor, one or more control/data lines to the host processor, and one or more audio lines to communicate audio signals to an audio subsystem of processing subsystem514. The aspects are not limited in this context.

In various aspects, the processing subsystem514may provide computing or processing operations for the mobile device500and/or for the detection subsystem516. For example, the processing subsystem514may be arranged to execute various software programs for the mobile device500as well as several software programs for the detection subsystem516. Although the processing subsystem514may be used to implement operations for the various aspects as software executed by a processor, it may be appreciated that the operations performed by the processing subsystem514also may be implemented using hardware circuits or structures, or a combination of hardware and software, as desired for a particular implementation.

In various aspects, the processing subsystem512may include a processor implemented using any processor or logic device, such as a complex instruction set computer (CISC) microprocessor, a reduced instruction set computing (RISC) microprocessor, a very long instruction word (VLIW) microprocessor, a processor implementing a combination of instruction sets, or other processor device. In one aspect, for example, a processor may be implemented as a general purpose processor, such as a processor made by Intel Corporation, Santa Clara, Calif. The processor also may be implemented as a dedicated processor, such as a controller, microcontroller, embedded processor, a digital signal processor (DSP), a network processor, a media processor, an input/output (I/O) processor, a media access control (MAC) processor, a radio baseband processor, a field programmable gate array (FPGA), a programmable logic device (PLD), and so forth.

In one aspect, the processing subsystem514may include a memory to connect to the processor. The memory may be implemented using any machine-readable or computer-readable media capable of storing data, including both volatile and non-volatile memory. For example, the memory may include ROM, RAM, DRAM, DDRAM, SDRAM, SRAM, PROM, EPROM, EEPROM, flash memory, polymer memory such as ferroelectric polymer memory, ovonic memory, phase change or ferroelectric memory, silicon-oxide-nitride-oxide-silicon (SONOS) memory, magnetic or optical cards, or any other type of media suitable for storing information. It is worthy to note that some portion or all of the memory may be included on the same integrated circuit as the processor thereby obviating the need for a memory bus. Alternatively some portion or all of the memory may be disposed on an integrated circuit or other medium, for example a hard disk drive, that is external to the integrated circuit of the processor, and the processor may access the memory via a memory bus, for example.

In various aspects, the memory may store one or more software components (e.g., application client modules). A software component may refer to one or more programs, or a portion of a program, used to implement a discrete set of operations. A collection of software components for a given device may be collectively referred to as a software architecture or application framework. A software architecture for the mobile device500is described in more detail below.

A software architecture suitable for use with the mobile device500may include a user interface (UI) module, an interface module, a data source or backend services module (data source), and a third party API module. An optional LBS module may comprise a user based permission module, a parser module (e.g., National Maritime Electronic Association or NMEA), a location information source module, and a position information source module. In some aspects, some software components may be omitted and others added. Further, operations for some programs may be separated into additional software components, or consolidated into fewer software components, as desired for a given implementation. The mobile device500software architecture may comprise several elements, components or modules, collectively referred to herein as a “module.” A module may be implemented as a circuit, an integrated circuit, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), an integrated circuit array, a chipset comprising an integrated circuit or an integrated circuit array, a logic circuit, a memory, an element of an integrated circuit array or a chipset, a stacked integrated circuit array, a processor, a digital signal processor, a programmable logic device, code, firmware, software, and any combination thereof.

FIG. 6Ais a diagram600of one aspect of an earphone plug402coupled to an electrode input circuit602portion of a detection subsystem516of the mobile device500for detecting an electrical signal generated by an ingestible event marker, such as the IEM device104(FIGS. 1 and 2), for example. The plug402comprises a conductive prong604having a plurality of conductive segments (L, R, G) separated by electrically insulative elements. Segment L is electrically connected to the left ear bud110L (FIGS. 1, 2, 4) electrode element300L (not shown), segment R is electrically connected to the right ear bud110R (FIGS. 1, 2, 4) electrode element300R (FIGS. 3A, 3B), and segment G is connected to ground. It will be appreciated that other configurations or additional segments may be included in a plug. For example, additional segments may be employed to pipe audio signals to the ear buds110R,110L in addition to the providing electrical connections to the electrode elements300R,300L. The plug402may be any type of electrical connector suitable for carrying electrical signals in either analog or digital form. The electrically conductive segments (L, R, G) are coupled to a corresponding connector514portion of the electrode input circuit602.

FIG. 6Bis a diagram of one aspect of an electrode input circuit602of the detection subsystem516shown inFIG. 6A.FIG. 6Bprovides a more detailed block diagram of a circuit configured to implement the block functional diagram of the electrode input circuit602depicted inFIG. 6A, according to one aspect. InFIG. 6B, electrode input circuit602includes electrodes e1, e2(611,612) which, for example, receive the conductively transmitted signals by an IEM device via connections L and R from the plug402. The signals received by the electrodes611,612are multiplexed by a multiplexer620which is electrically coupled to the electrodes611,612.

The multiplexer620is electrically coupled to a high band pass filter630. The signal chain provides for a programmable gain to cover the desired level or range. In this specific aspect, the high band pass filter630passes frequencies in the 10 KHz to 34 KHz band while filtering out noise from out-of-band frequencies. In other aspects, the high band pass filter630may be replaced with any suitable band pass filter for any suitable frequency. In the aspect illustrated inFIG. 6B, the high frequency band may vary, and may include, for example, a range of about 3 KHz to about 300 KHz. In other aspects, the frequency band may vary, and may include, for example, a range of about 0.3 KHz to about 30 KHz, for example. The passing frequencies are then amplified by an amplifier632before being converted into a digital signal by a converter634for input into a high power processor680(shown as a DSP), which is electrically coupled to the frequency signal chain. Also shown inFIG. 6Bis a flash memory690electrically coupled to the high power processor680to enable memory storage and enhance efficiency of operations.

The high power processor680may be, for example, a VC5509 digital signal processor from Texas Instruments. The high power processor680performs the signal processing actions during the active state. These actions, may require larger amounts of current than the idle state—e.g., currents of 30 μA or more, such as 50 μA or more—and may include, for example, actions such as scanning for conductively transmitted signals, or processing conductively transmitted signals when received.

The detection subsystem516(FIG. 6A) may include a hardware accelerator module (not shown) to process data signals. The hardware accelerator module (not shown) may be implemented instead of, for example, a DSP. Being a more specialized computation unit, the hardware accelerator module performs aspects of the signal processing algorithm with fewer transistors (less cost and power) compared to the more general purpose DSP. The blocks of hardware may be used to “accelerate” the performance of important specific function(s). Some architectures for hardware accelerators may be “programmable” via microcode or VLIW assembly. In the course of use, their functions may be accessed by calls to function libraries.

FIG. 7is a system diagram of one aspect of a detection subsystem516of a mobile device for detecting an electrical signal generated by an ingestible event marker, such as the IEM device104(FIGS. 1 and 2), for example.FIG. 7is a block functional diagram of one aspect of an integrated circuit component. As shown inFIG. 7, the detection subsystem516comprises an electrode input circuit602, which receives the electrical current signature generated by the IEM device104from the detection arrangement108(both shown inFIGS. 1 and 2). In one aspect, electrically coupled to the electrode input circuit602is a transbody conductive communication module702and, in another aspect, a physiological sensing module704optionally may be coupled to the electrode input circuit602. In one aspect, the transbody conductive communication module702may be implemented as a first, e.g., high, frequency (HF) signal chain and the physiological sensing module704may be implemented as a second, e.g., low, frequency (LF) signal chain. In one aspect, the detection subsystem516also may include a temperature sensing module706for detecting ambient temperature and a 3-axis accelerometer708. In one aspect, the temperature sensing module706may be implemented using complementary oxide semiconductor (CMOS) circuit elements. In various aspects, additional modules may be provided for sensing of the environment around the IEM device104, for example, including, without limitation, Ph sensing, impedance sensing. The detection subsystem516also may comprise a memory710for data storage (similar to any of the previously discussed memory elements), and a wireless communication module712to receive data from and/or transmit data to another device, for example in a data download/upload action, respectively. In various aspects, the sensors714and the feedback modules716also may be included in the detection subsystem516. In one aspect, as shown inFIG. 7, the various functional modules are coupled to the processing subsystem512of the mobile device500(FIG. 5). In other aspects, a detection subsystem may comprise its own dedicated processing engine. For example, as shown for example inFIG. 14, the detection subsystem516may comprise a dedicated processing engine1402, for example, a microcontroller or a digital signal processor, that is separate from the processing subsystem512of the mobile device500.

With reference back toFIG. 7, in various aspects, the transbody conductive communication module702and the wireless communication module712each may comprise one or more transmitters/receivers (“transceiver”) modules. As used herein, the term “transceiver” may be used in a very general sense to include a transmitter, a receiver, or a combination of both, without limitation. In one aspect, the transbody conductive communication module702is configured to communicate with the IEM device104(FIGS. 1 and 2). In one aspect, the wireless communication module712may be configured to communicate with the wireless access point210(FIG. 2). In another aspect, the wireless communication module712may be configured to communicate with other mobile devices.

In various aspects, the sensors714typically contact the patient106(FIGS. 1 and 2), e.g., can be removably attached to the torso. In various other aspects, the sensors714may be removably or permanently attached to the detection subsystem516. For example, the sensors714may be removably connected to the detection subsystem516by snapping metal studs. The sensors714may comprise, for example, various devices capable of sensing or receiving the physiologic data. The types of sensors714include, for example, electrodes such as biocompatible electrodes. The sensors714may be configured, for example, as a pressure sensor, a motion sensor, an accelerometer708, an electromyography (EMG) sensor, an IEM device104(FIGS. 1 and 2), a biopotential sensor, an electrocardiogram sensor, a temperature sensor, a tactile event marker sensor, an impedance sensor, among other sensors.

In various aspects, the feedback module716may be implemented with software, hardware, circuitry, various devices, and combinations thereof. The function of the feedback module716is to provide communication with the patient106(FIGS. 1 and 2) in a discreet, tactful, circumspect manner as described above. In various aspects the feedback module716may be implemented to communicate with the patient106(FIGS. 1 and 2) using techniques that employ visual, audio, vibratory/tactile, olfactory, and taste.

FIG. 8illustrates one aspect of a mobile device800comprising integrated electrodes804A,804B for detecting electrical signals generated by an ingestible event marker, such as the IEM device104(FIGS. 1 and 2), for example. With reference now toFIGS. 8-10, the integrated electrodes804A,804B are coupled to a detection subsystem516(FIG. 9) similar to the detection subsystem516(FIGS. 5-7). In this particular aspect, the electrodes are replaced by the integrated electrodes804A,804B. Accordingly, in use, the patient106(FIG. 10) ingests the medication comprising the IEM device104(FIG. 10) and holds the mobile device800while contacting the electrodes804A,804B with both hands in order to couple the unique electrical current signature generated by the IEM device104to the detection subsystem516. In another aspect, the mobile device with the contacting electrodes may be placed over a wrist-band or an arm-band which enables physical connectivity with the user.

The mobile device800also comprises a housing806, a display808, an input/output (I/O) system810, an aperture812for capturing digital images, and an antenna814. A high level description of similar functional modules was provided in connection with the mobile device102shown inFIG. 5and for the sake of conciseness and clarity will not be repeated here.

FIG. 9is system diagram of one aspect of a mobile device900for detecting an electrical signal generated by an ingestible event marker, such as the IEM device104(FIGS. 1, 2, 10), for example, configured to couple to the integrated electrodes805A,804B. As shown inFIG. 9, the mobile device900may comprise multiple elements. AlthoughFIG. 9shows a limited number of elements in a certain topology by way of example, it can be appreciated that additional or fewer elements in any suitable topology may be used in the mobile device900as desired for a given implementation. Furthermore, any element as described herein may be implemented using hardware, software, or a combination of both, as previously described with reference to node implementations. Aspects of the mobile device900, however, are not limited in this context.

In various aspects, the mobile device900comprises a housing806and an antenna814. The mobile device900also comprises a radio subsystem514connected via a bus to a processing subsystem512. The radio subsystem514may perform voice and data communications operations using wireless shared media for the mobile device900. The processing subsystem512may execute software for the mobile device900. A bus may comprise a USB or micro-USB bus and appropriate interfaces, as well as others.

The detection subsystem516, as previously described in connection withFIGS. 5-7, is coupled to the integrated electrodes804A,804B, which are configured to be touched by the patient106(FIG. 10) to conduct the unique electrical signature generated by the IEM device104(FIG. 10). Accordingly, once the patient106has ingested the IEM device104and contacts the integrated electrodes804A,804B, the detection subsystem516detects the unique current signature generated by the IEM device104and coupled through the integrated electrodes804A,804B. As previously discussed, the unique current signature generated by the IEM device104encodes the information associated with the IEM device104, the medication, and/or the patient106, among other information. The detection subsystem516is coupled to the processing subsystem512and provides the decoded sequence to the processing subsystem512. The processing subsystem512activates the radio subsystem514to communicate the decoded information received from the IEM device104to the wireless node120(FIGS. 1, 2) or the cellular network208(FIG. 2). The imaging subsystem508, navigation subsystem510, processing subsystem,512, and radio subsystem514were previously described in connection withFIG. 5and will not be repeated here for the sake of conciseness and clarity of disclosure.

FIG. 10illustrates a patient106in the process of using one aspect of the mobile device800comprising integrated electrodes804A,804B (FIG. 8) for detecting an electrical signal generated by an ingestible event marker, such as the IEM device104, for example. As previously discussed, once the patient ingests the IEM device104, the patient106holds the mobile device800by contacting the integrated electrodes804A,804B. The unique electrical current signature that is generated by the IEM device104when it dissolves in the digestive fluids114of the stomach116is coupled from the patient106to the integrated electrodes804A,804B and to the detection subsystem516(FIG. 9), as previously discussed.

FIG. 11illustrates one aspect of a mobile device1100received in a mating configuration with a mobile device enclosing arrangement1102comprising a detection circuit integrated therewith for detecting an electrical signal generated by an ingestible event marker, such as the IEM device104(FIGS. 1, 2, 10), for example. The enclosing arrangement1102may be referred to as a housing, enclosure, attachment, among others, and may substantially or partially cover or enclose the mobile device1100.FIG. 12illustrates the mobile device1100and the enclosing arrangement1102(cradle, protective cover, skin, and the like) for receiving the mobile device1100in an unmated configuration. The mobile device1100shown inFIGS. 11 and 12is substantially similar to the mobile devices102,800described hereinbefore and, therefore, a high level description of similar functional modules will not be repeated here for the sake of conciseness and clarity of disclosure.

As shown inFIGS. 11 and 12, the mobile device1100is configured to mate with the enclosing arrangement1102. The enclosing arrangement1102contains a detection module1200integrated therewith. The detection module1200comprises a detection subsystem comprising an electrode input circuit similar to the detection subsystem516and electrode input circuit602described in connection withFIGS. 6 and 7. Due to the similarity of the detection subsystem and electrode input circuit components, the particular details will not be repeated here for the sake of conciseness and clarity of disclosure. The enclosing arrangement1102also includes electrodes1202A and1202B (not shown inFIG. 12and shown inFIG. 13) to couple the patient to the detection module1200. The detection module1200may be electrically coupled to functional modules of the mobile device1100to detect and process the unique electrical signature generated by the IEM device104(FIGS. 1, 2, 10). The detection module1200may be electrically coupled to the functional modules of the mobile device1100using any suitable techniques such as, for example, inductive coupling, wireless transmission, electrical connector, and the like. One example of a housing comprising a suitable connector to electrically couple the detection module1200to the functional modules of the mobile device1100is described in connection withFIG. 13.

FIG. 13illustrates one aspect of a enclosing arrangement1102for receiving a mobile device where the enclosing arrangement1102comprises a detection circuit1200for detecting an electrical signal generated by an ingestible event marker integrated therewith and a connector1300for electrically coupling the detection circuit1200to the functional modules of the mobile device. In use, the mobile device (not shown) is slidably inserted over the enclosing arrangement1102and plugged into the connector1300. The electrodes1202A,1202B are used tot couple the patient to the detection module1200. The connector1300couples the detection module1200to the functional modules of the mobile device1100(FIG. 12) for communication purposes, among other purposes. In one aspect, the detection module1200integrated with the enclosing arrangement1102is a standalone module and includes all the necessary electronic modules to detect the unique electrical current signature generated by the IEM device.

FIG. 14is a system diagram of one aspect of a detection circuit1400for detecting an electrical signal generated by an ingestible event marker, such as the IEM device104(FIGS. 1, 2, 10), for example. In one aspect, the detection circuit1400is a standalone module that includes a processing engine1402. The processing engine1402is similar in functionality to the processing subsystem512previously discussed in connection withFIG. 5, for example. The electrode input circuit602receives electrical inputs from the electrodes1202A,1202B integrated with the enclosing arrangement1102(FIG. 13). The processing engine1402receives inputs from the transbody conductive communication module702and the physiological sensing module704and decodes the unique electrical signature generated by the IEM device104(FIGS. 1, 2, 10). The other modules including the temperature sensor706, accelerometer708, memory710, wireless communication module712, sensors714, and feedback module716are optional and are also coupled to the processing engine1402.

FIG. 15illustrates one aspect of a system1500comprising an detection arrangement1502in the form of eyeglasses1504wiredly coupled to a mobile device1506for detecting an electrical signal generated by an ingestible event marker, such as the IEM device (FIGS. 1, 2, 10), for example. The detection arrangement102comprises a pair of eyeglasses1504, or any form eyewear such as reading glasses, prescription glasses, sunglasses, and the like. The eyeglasses1504comprise electrodes1508L,1508R coupled by electrical conductors1510R,1510L to a plug1512. The plug1512is received in a corresponding data port socket or jack connector1514portion of the mobile device1506. The mobile device1506comprises a housing1516, a display1518, an input/output (I/O) system1520, an aperture1522for capturing digital images, and an antenna1524. A high level description of the functional modules of the mobile device1506has been provided herein in connection withFIGS. 4-7, with the eyeglasses1504replacing the ear buds110R,110L, and will not be repeated for the sake of conciseness and clarity of disclosure. The mobile device1506comprises a detection subsystem and an electrode input circuit similar to the detection subsystem516and the electrode input circuit602described in connection withFIGS. 4-7, for example.

Accordingly, with reference now toFIGS. 15, 1, 2, 4-7, and 10in use, the patient106puts on the eyeglasses1504ensuring that there is sufficient contact of the electrodes1508R,1508L with the patient's skin and electrically couples the electrodes1508R,1508L into the mobile device1506by connecting the plug1512into the corresponding jack1514in the mobile device1506. It will be appreciated that any suitable connection arrangements is contemplated to be within the scope of the present disclosure other than the plug/jack connection arrangement shown inFIG. 15. Such other connection arrangements include, without limitation, data ports, USB, socket, audio/video type connectors, among other suitable connection mechanisms. Once the detection arrangement1502is located in place, the patient106ingests the IEM device104and upon dissolving in the digestive fluids114of the stomach116, the IEM device104powers up and initiates conduction of a unique electrical current signature signal, which encodes information associated with the IEM device104, the medication, the patient106, among other information. The unique electrical current signature signal is detected by the electrodes1508R,1508L and is coupled via the electrical conductors1510R,1510L to the mobile device1506where the electrode input circuit602portion of the detection subsystem516to decode the signal and communicate the information to the processing subsystem512of the mobile device1506. In other aspects, the detection subsystem512may include a dedicated processing engine1402as described in connection withFIG. 14, without limitation.

FIG. 16illustrates one aspect of a system1600comprising electrodes1602R,1602L, detection circuit module1604, and antenna1606integrated in a pair of eyeglasses1608wirelessly coupled to a mobile device1610for detecting an electrical signal generated by an ingestible event marker. As shown inFIG. 16, the detection circuit module1604including the electrode input circuit and detection subsystem are embedded in the eyeglasses1608to essentially eliminate the need for the electrical conductors1510R,1510L as shown inFIG. 15, for example. The wireless signal1612transmitted by the detection circuit module1604may be received by the onboard antenna1614of the wireless device1610. In one aspect, the detection circuit module1604may communicate with the mobile device1610using Bluetooth or other suitable proprietary open wireless technology standard for exchanging data over short distances. In other aspects, other wireless communications such as the Wi-Fi (IEEE 802.11) wireless standard for connecting electronic devices.

In one aspect, the eyeglasses1608may include a battery1616embedded therein to supply electrical power to the detection circuit module1604. In other aspects, a wireless power transfer technique commonly employed in RFID tags or by inductive coupling may be employed instead of the battery1616. In one aspect, the mobile device1610may be configured to transmit an interrogation signal to the detection circuit module1604which serves to power up the detection circuit module1604and initiate taking readings and wirelessly transmitting information back to the mobile device1610.

Once the detection circuit module1604transmits the information associated with the IEM device to the mobile device1610, the mobile device1610can act as a hub to transfer the information to a local wireless node or remote node via the cellular network, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or other suitable wireless communication technique.

FIG. 17illustrates one aspect of a system1700comprising electrodes1702R,1702L, detection circuit module1604, and antenna1606integrated in a in a visor1708wirelessly coupled to a mobile device1610for detecting an electrical signal generated by an ingestible event marker. As shown inFIG. 17, the detection circuit module1604including the electrode input circuit and detection subsystem are embedded in the visor1708to essentially eliminate the need for the electrical conductors to couple the electrodes1702R,1702L to the mobile device1610, for example. The wireless signal1612transmitted by the detection circuit module1604may be received by the onboard antenna1614of the wireless device1610. In one aspect, the detection circuit module1604may communicate with the mobile device1610using Bluetooth or other suitable proprietary open wireless technology standard for exchanging data over short distances. In other aspects, other wireless communications such as the Wi-Fi (IEEE 802.11) wireless standard for connecting electronic devices.

In one aspect, the visor1708may include a battery1616embedded therein to supply electrical power to the detection circuit module1604. In other aspects, a wireless power transfer technique commonly employed in RFID tags or by inductive coupling may be employed instead of the battery1616. In one aspect, the mobile device1610may be configured to transmit an interrogation signal to the detection circuit module1604which serves to power up the detection circuit module1604and initiate taking readings from the IEM device and wirelessly transmitting the information back to the mobile device1610.

Once the detection circuit module1604transmits the information associated with the IEM device to the mobile device1610, the mobile device1610can act as a hub to transfer the information to a local wireless node or remote node via the cellular network, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or other suitable wireless communication technique.

FIG. 18illustrates one aspect of a system1800comprising electrodes1802R,1802L, detection circuit module1604, and antenna1606integrated in a helmet1808wirelessly coupled to a mobile device1610for detecting an electrical signal generated by an ingestible event marker. As shown inFIG. 18, the detection circuit module1604including the electrode input circuit and detection subsystem are embedded in the helmet1808to essentially eliminate the need for the electrical conductors to couple the electrodes1802R,1802L to the mobile device1610, for example. The wireless signal1612transmitted by the detection circuit module1604may be received by the onboard antenna1614of the wireless device1610. In one aspect, the detection circuit module1604may communicate with the mobile device1610using Bluetooth or other suitable proprietary open wireless technology standard for exchanging data over short distances. In other aspects, other wireless communications such as the Wi-Fi (IEEE 802.11) wireless standard for connecting electronic devices.

In one aspect, the helmet1808may include a battery1616embedded therein to supply electrical power to the detection circuit module1604. In other aspects, a wireless power transfer technique commonly employed in RFID tags or by inductive coupling may be employed instead of the battery1616. In one aspect, the mobile device1610may be configured to transmit an interrogation signal to the detection circuit module1604which serves to power up the detection circuit module1604and initiate taking readings from the IEM device and wirelessly transmitting the information back to the mobile device1610.

Once the detection circuit module1604transmits the information associated with the IEM device to the mobile device1610, the mobile device1610can act as a hub to transfer the information to a local wireless node or remote node via the cellular network, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or other suitable wireless communication technique.

FIG. 19illustrates one aspect of a system1900comprising electrodes1902R,1902L, detection circuit modules1604R,1604L, and antennas1606R integrated in a pair of hearing aids1904R,1904L wirelessly coupled to a mobile device1610for detecting an electrical signal generated by an ingestible event marker. As shown inFIG. 19, the detection circuit module(s)1604R,1604L including the electrode input circuit and detection subsystem are embedded in the hearing aid(s)1904R,1904L to essentially eliminate the need for the electrical conductors to couple the electrodes1902R,1902L to the mobile device1610, for example. The wireless signal1612transmitted by the either one of the detection circuit modules1604R,1604L may be received by the onboard antenna1614of the wireless device1610. In one aspect, either one of the detection circuit modules1604R,1604L may communicate with the mobile device1610using Bluetooth or other suitable proprietary open wireless technology standard for exchanging data over short distances. In other aspects, other wireless communications such as the Wi-Fi (IEEE 802.11) wireless standard for connecting electronic devices.

In one aspect, the hearing aid(s)1904R,1904L may include a battery1616embedded therein to supply electrical power to either one of the detection circuit modules1604R,1604L. In other aspects, a wireless power transfer technique commonly employed in RFID tags or by inductive coupling may be employed instead of the battery1616. In one aspect, the mobile device1610may be configured to transmit an interrogation signal to either one of the detection circuit modules1604R,1604L which serves to power up either one of the detection circuit modules1604R,1604L and initiate taking readings from the IEM device and wirelessly transmitting the information back to the mobile device1610.

Once either one of the detection circuit modules1604R,1604L transmit the information associated with the IEM device to the mobile device1610, the mobile device1610can act as a hub to transfer the information to a local wireless node or remote node via the cellular network, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or other suitable wireless communication technique.

FIG. 20illustrates one aspect of a system2000comprising electrodes2004R,2004L, detection circuit module1604, and antenna1606integrated in a chair2008wirelessly coupled to a mobile device1610for detecting an electrical signal generated by an ingestible event marker. As shown inFIG. 20, the detection circuit module1604including the electrode input circuit and detection subsystem are embedded in the chair2008to essentially eliminate the need for the electrical conductors to couple the electrodes2002R,2002L to the mobile device1610, for example. The wireless signal1612transmitted by the detection circuit module1604may be received by the onboard antenna1614of the wireless device1610. In one aspect, the detection circuit module1604may communicate with the mobile device1610using Bluetooth or other suitable proprietary open wireless technology standard for exchanging data over short distances. In other aspects, other wireless communications such as the Wi-Fi (IEEE 802.11) wireless standard for connecting electronic devices.

In one aspect, the chair2008may include a battery1616embedded therein to supply electrical power to the detection circuit module1604or may be plugged into a household altering current (AC) mains socket. In other aspects, a wireless power transfer technique commonly employed in RFID tags or by inductive coupling may be employed instead of the battery1616. In one aspect, the mobile device1610may be configured to transmit an interrogation signal to the detection circuit module1604which serves to power up the detection circuit module1604and initiate taking readings from the IEM device and wirelessly transmitting the information back to the mobile device1610.

Once the detection circuit module1604transmits the information associated with the IEM device to the mobile device1610, the mobile device1610can act as a hub to transfer the information to a local wireless node or remote node via the cellular network, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or other suitable wireless communication technique.

FIG. 21illustrates a system2100corresponding to one aspect of an ingestible event marker device. In various aspects the IEM devices104shown inFIGS. 1 and 2, for example, may be implemented in accordance with the system2100shown inFIG. 21. The system2100can be used in association with any medication product, as mentioned above, to determine the origin of the medication and to confirm that at least one of the right type and the right dosage of medication was delivered to the patient and in some aspects to determine when a patient takes the medication product. The scope of the present disclosure, however, is not limited by the environment and the medication product that may be used with the system2100. For example, the system2100may be activated either in wireless mode, in galvanic mode by placing the system2100within a capsule and then placing the capsule within a conducting fluid, or a combination thereof, or exposing the system2100to air. Once placed in a conducting fluid, for example, the capsule would dissolve over a period of time and release the system2100into the conducting fluid. Thus, in one aspect, the capsule would contain the system2100and no product. Such a capsule may then be used in any environment where a conducting fluid is present and with any product. For example, the capsule may be dropped into a container filled with jet fuel, salt water, tomato sauce, motor oil, or any similar product. Additionally, the capsule containing the system2100may be ingested at the same time that any pharmaceutical product is ingested in order to record the occurrence of the event, such as when the product was taken.

In the specific example of the system2100shown inFIG. 21, when the system2100is combined with a medication or pharmaceutical product, as the product or pill is ingested, or exposed to air, the system2100is activated in galvanic mode. The system2100controls conductance to produce a unique electrical current signature that is detected by the electrode assemblies (e.g.,108. . . etc., described herein), for example, thereby signifying that the pharmaceutical product has been taken. When activated in wireless mode, the system controls modulation of capacitive plates to produce a unique voltage signature associated with the system2100that is detected. Various aspects of the system2100are described in commonly assigned U.S. Patent Application Applications Pharma Informatics System, filed Apr. 28, 2006, published as 2008-0284599 A1; Highly Reliable Ingestible Event Markers and Methods for Using Same, filed Apr. 27, 2009, published as 2011-0054265 A1; Miniature Ingestible Device, filed Apr. 6, 2011 as International Application No. PCT/US11/31536; Ingestible Device with Pharmaceutical Product, filed Nov. 22, 2010, and the following U.S. Application No. 61/416,150; Wireless Energy Sources for Integrated Circuits, filed Dec. 29, 2010, Application No. 61/428,055; Communication System with Remote Activation, filed Jul. 11, 2011, application Ser. No. 13/180,516; Communication System with Multiple Sources of Power, filed Jul. 11, 2011, application Ser. No. 13/180,498; Communication System Using an Implantable Device, filed Jul. 11, 2011, application Ser. No. 13/180,539; Communication System with Enhanced Partial Power and Method of Manufacturing Same, filed Jul. 11, 2011, application Ser. No. 13/180,525; Communication System Using Polypharmacy Co-Packaged Medication Dosing Unit, filed Jul. 11, 2011, application Ser. No. 13/180,538; Communication System Incorporated in an Ingestible Product, filed Jul. 11, 2011, application Ser. No. 13/180,507; each of the disclosures of which is entirely herein incorporated by reference.

In one aspect, the system2100includes a framework2102. The framework2102is a chassis for the system2100and multiple components are attached to, deposited upon, or secured to the framework2102. In this aspect of the system2100, a digestible material2104is physically associated with the framework2102. The material2104may be chemically deposited on, evaporated onto, secured to, or built-up on the framework all of which may be referred to herein as “deposit” with respect to the framework2102. The material2104is deposited on one side of the framework2102. The materials of interest that can be used as material2104include, but are not limited to: Cu, CuCl, or CuI. The material2104is deposited by physical vapor deposition, electrodeposition, or plasma deposition, among other protocols. The material2104may be from about 0.05 to about 500 μm thick, such as from about 5 to about 100 μm thick. The shape is controlled by shadow mask deposition, or photolithography and etching. Additionally, even though only one region is shown for depositing the material, each system2100may contain two or more electrically unique regions where the material2104may be deposited, as desired.

At a different side, which is the opposite side as shown inFIG. 21, another digestible material2106is deposited, such that the materials2104,2106are dissimilar and insulated from each other. Although not shown, the different side selected may be the side next to the side selected for the material2104. The scope of the present disclosure is not limited by the side selected and the term “different side” can mean any of the multiple sides that are different from the first selected side. In various aspects, the dissimilar material may be located at different positions on a same side. Furthermore, although the shape of the system is shown as a square, the shape may be any geometrically suitable shape. The materials2104,2106are selected such that they produce a voltage potential difference when the system2100is in contact with conducting liquid, such as body fluids. The materials of interest for material2106include, but are not limited to: Mg, Zn, or other electronegative metals. As indicated above with respect to the material2104, the material2106may be chemically deposited on, evaporated onto, secured to, or built-up on the framework. Also, an adhesion layer may be necessary to help the material2106(as well as material2104when needed) to adhere to the framework2102. Typical adhesion layers for the material2106are Ti, TiW, Cr or similar material. Anode material and the adhesion layer may be deposited by physical vapor deposition, electrodeposition or plasma deposition. The material2106may be from about 0.05 to about 500 μm thick, such as from about 5 to about 100 μm thick. However, the scope of the present disclosure is not limited by the thickness of any of the materials nor by the type of process used to deposit or secure the materials to the framework2102.

According to the disclosure set forth, the materials2104,2106can be any pair of materials with different electrochemical potentials. Additionally, in the aspects wherein the system2100is used in-vivo, the materials2104,2106may be vitamins that can be absorbed. More specifically, the materials2104,2106can be made of any two materials appropriate for the environment in which the system2100will be operating. For example, when used with an ingestible product, the materials2104,2106are any pair of materials with different electrochemical potentials that are ingestible. An illustrative example includes the instance when the system2100is in contact with an ionic solution, such as stomach acids. Suitable materials are not restricted to metals, and in certain aspects the paired materials are chosen from metals and non-metals, e.g., a pair made up of a metal (such as Mg) and a salt (such as CuCl or CuI). With respect to the active electrode materials, any pairing of substances—metals, salts, or intercalation compounds—with suitably different electrochemical potentials (voltage) and low interfacial resistance are suitable.

Materials and pairings of interest include, but are not limited to, those reported in TABLE 1 below. In one aspect, one or both of the metals may be doped with a non-metal, e.g., to enhance the voltage potential created between the materials as they come into contact with a conducting liquid. Non-metals that may be used as doping agents in certain aspects include, but are not limited to: sulfur, iodine, and the like. In another aspect, the materials are copper iodine (CuI) as the anode and magnesium (Mg) as the cathode. Aspects of the present disclosure use electrode materials that are not harmful to the human body.

Thus, when the system2100is in contact with the conducting fluid, a current path is formed through the conducting fluid between the dissimilar materials2104,2106. A control device2108is secured to the framework2102and electrically coupled to the materials2104,2106. The control device2108includes electronic circuitry, for example control logic that is capable of controlling and altering the conductance between the materials2104,2106.

The voltage potential created between the dissimilar materials2104,2106provides the power for operating the system as well as produces the current flow through the conducting fluid and the system2100. In one aspect, the system2100operates in direct current mode. In an alternative aspect, the system720controls the direction of the current so that the direction of current is reversed in a cyclic manner, similar to alternating current. As the system reaches the conducting fluid or the electrolyte, where the fluid or electrolyte component is provided by a physiological fluid, e.g., stomach acid, the path for current flow between the dissimilar materials2104,2106is completed external to the system2100; the current path through the system2100is controlled by the control device2108. Completion of the current path allows for the current to flow and in turn a receiver, not shown, can detect the presence of the current and recognize that the system2100has been activate and the desired event is occurring or has occurred.

In one aspect, the two dissimilar materials2104,2106are similar in function to the two electrodes needed for a direct current power source, such as a battery. The conducting liquid acts as the electrolyte needed to complete the power source. The completed power source described is defined by the electrochemical reaction between the materials2104,2106of the system2100and enabled by the fluids of the body. The completed power source may be viewed as a power source that exploits electrochemical conduction in an ionic or a conducting solution such as gastric fluid, blood, or other bodily fluids and some tissues. Additionally, the environment may be something other than a body and the liquid may be any conducting liquid. For example, the conducting fluid may be salt water or a metallic based paint.

In certain aspects, the two dissimilar materials2104,2106are shielded from the surrounding environment by an additional layer of material. Accordingly, when the shield is dissolved and the two dissimilar materials2104,2106are exposed to the target site, a voltage potential is generated.

In certain aspects, the complete power source or supply is one that is made up of active electrode materials, electrolytes, and inactive materials, such as current collectors, packaging. The active materials are any pair of materials with different electrochemical potentials. Suitable materials are not restricted to metals, and in certain aspects the paired materials are chosen from metals and non-metals, e.g., a pair made up of a metal (such as Mg) and a salt (such as CuI). With respect to the active electrode materials, any pairing of substances—metals, salts, or intercalation compounds—with suitably different electrochemical potentials (voltage) and low interfacial resistance are suitable.

A variety of different materials may be employed as the materials that form the electrodes. In certain aspects, electrode materials are chosen to provide for a voltage upon contact with the target physiological site, e.g., the stomach, sufficient to drive the system of the identifier. In certain aspects, the voltage provided by the electrode materials upon contact of the metals of the power source with the target physiological site is 0.001 V or higher, including 0.01 V or higher, such as 0.1 V or higher, e.g., 0.3 V or higher, including 0.5 volts or higher, and including 1.0 volts or higher, where in certain aspects, the voltage ranges from about 0.001 to about 10 volts, such as from about 0.01 to about 10 V.

Still referring toFIG. 21, the dissimilar materials2104,2106provide the voltage potential to activate the control device2108. Once the control device2108is activated or powered up, the control device2108can alter conductance between the first and second materials2104,2106in a unique manner. By altering the conductance between the first and second materials2104,2106, the control device2108is capable of controlling the magnitude of the current through the conducting liquid that surrounds the system2100. This produces a unique current signature that can be detected and measured by a receiver (not shown), which can be positioned internal or external to the body. The receiver is disclosed in greater detail in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/673,326 entitled “BODY-ASSOCIATED RECEIVER AND METHOD” filed on Dec. 15, 2009, and published as 2010-0312188 A1 dated Dec. 9, 2010 which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. In addition to controlling the magnitude of the current path between the materials, non-conducting materials, membrane, or “skirt” are used to increase the “length” of the current path and, hence, act to boost the conductance path, as disclosed in the U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/238,345 entitled, “IN-BODY DEVICE WITH VIRTUAL DIPOLE SIGNAL AMPLIFICATION” filed Sep. 25, 2008, the entire content of which is incorporated herein by reference. Alternatively, throughout the disclosure herein, the terms “non-conducting material,” “membrane,” and “skirt” are interchangeably used with the term “current path extender” without impacting the scope or the present aspects and the claims herein. The skirt, shown in portion at2105,2107, respectively, may be associated with, e.g., secured to, the framework2102. Various shapes and configurations for the skirt are contemplated as within the scope of the various aspects of the present invention. For example, the system2100may be surrounded entirely or partially by the skirt and the skirt maybe positioned along a central axis of the system2100or off-center relative to a central axis. Thus, the scope of the present disclosure as claimed herein is not limited by the shape or size of the skirt. Furthermore, in other aspects, the dissimilar materials2104,2106may be separated by one skirt that is positioned in any defined region between the dissimilar materials2104,2106.

The system2100may be grounded through a ground contact. The system720also may include a sensor module. In operation, ion or current paths are established between the first material2104to the second material2106and through a conducting fluid in contact with the system2100. The voltage potential created between the first and second materials2104,2106is created through chemical reactions between the first and second materials2104,2106and the conducting fluid. In one aspect, the surface of the first material2104is not planar, but rather an irregular surface. The irregular surface increases the surface area of the material and, hence, the area that comes in contact with the conducting fluid.

In one aspect, at the surface of the first material2104, there is an electrochemical reaction between the material2104and the surrounding conducting fluid such that mass is released into the conducting fluid. The term “mass” as used herein includes any ionic or non-ionic species that may be added or removed from the conductive fluid as part of the electrochemical reactions occurring on material2104. One example includes the instant where the material is CuCl and when in contact with the conducting fluid, CuCl is converted to Cu metal (solid) and Cl— is released into solution. The flow of positive ions into the conduction fluid is via current path(s). Negative ions flow in the opposite direction. In a similar manner, there is an electrochemical reaction involving the second material2106that results in ions released or removed from the conducting fluid. In this example, the release of negative ions at the material2104and the release of positive ions by the material36are related to each other through the current flow that is controlled by control device38. The rate of reaction and hence the ionic emission rate or current, is controlled by the control device2108. The control device2108can increase or decrease the rate of ion flow by altering its internal conductance, which alters the impedance, and therefore the current flow and reaction rates at the materials2104,2106. Through controlling the reaction rates, the system2100can encode information in the ionic flow. Thus, the system2100encodes information using ionic emission or flow.

The control device2108can vary the duration of a fixed ionic exchange rate or current flow magnitude while keeping the rate or magnitude near constant, similar to when the frequency is modulated and the amplitude is constant. Also, the control device2108can vary the level of the ionic exchange rate or the magnitude of the current flow while keeping the duration near constant. Thus, using various combinations of changes in duration and altering the rate or magnitude, the control device2108encodes information in the current flow or the ionic exchange. For example, the control device2108may use, but is not limited to any of the following techniques namely, Binary Phase-Shift Keying (PSK), Frequency Modulation (FM), Amplitude Modulation (AM), On-Off Keying, and PSK with On-Off Keying.

Various aspects of the system2100may comprise electronic components as part of the control device2108. Components that may be present include but are not limited to: logic and/or memory elements, an integrated circuit, an inductor, a resistor, and sensors for measuring various parameters. Each component may be secured to the framework and/or to another component. The components on the surface of the support may be laid out in any convenient configuration. Where two or more components are present on the surface of the solid support, interconnects may be provided.

The system2100controls the conductance between the dissimilar materials and, hence, the rate of ionic exchange or the current flow. Through altering the conductance in a specific manner the system is capable of encoding information in the ionic exchange and the current signature. The ionic exchange or the current signature is used to uniquely identify the specific system. Additionally, the system2100is capable of producing various different unique exchanges or signatures and, thus, provides additional information. For example, a second current signature based on a second conductance alteration pattern may be used to provide additional information, which information may be related to the physical environment. To further illustrate, a first current signature may be a very low current state that maintains an oscillator on the chip and a second current signature may be a current state at least a factor of ten higher than the current state associated with the first current signature.

Referring now toFIG. 22, in another aspect of an ingestible device is shown in more detail as system2040. The system2040includes a framework2042. In this aspect of the system2040, a digestible or dissolvable material2044is deposited on a portion of one side of the framework2042. At a different portion of the same side of the framework2042, another digestible material2046is deposited, such that materials2044and2046are dissimilar. More specifically, material2044and2046are selected such that they form a voltage potential difference when in contact with a conducting liquid, such as body fluids. Thus, when the system2040is in contact with and/or partially in contact with the conducting liquid, then a current path, an example is shown inFIG. 23, is formed through the conducting liquid between material2044and2046. A control device2048is secured to the framework2042and electrically coupled to the materials2044and2046. The control device2048includes electronic circuitry that is capable of controlling part of the conductance path between the materials2044and2046. The materials2044and2046are separated by a non-conducting skirt2049. Various examples of the skirt2049are disclosed in U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/173,511 filed on Apr. 28, 2009 and entitled “HIGHLY RELIABLE INGESTIBLE EVENT MARKERS AND METHODS OF USING SAME” and U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/173,564 filed on Apr. 28, 2009 and entitled “INGESTIBLE EVENT MARKERS HAVING SIGNAL AMPLIFIERS THAT COMPRISE AN ACTIVE AGENT”; as well as U.S. application Ser. No. 12/238,345 filed Sep. 25, 2008 and published as 2009-0082645, entitled “IN-BODY DEVICE WITH VIRTUAL DIPOLE SIGNAL AMPLIFICATION”; the entire disclosure of each is incorporated herein by reference.

Once the control device2048is activated or powered up, the control device2048can alter conductance between the materials2044and2046. Thus, the control device2048is capable of controlling the magnitude of the current through the conducting liquid that surrounds the system2040. As indicated above with respect to system2030, a unique current signature that is associated with the system2040can be detected by a receiver (not shown) to mark the activation of the system2040. In order to increase the “length” of the current path the size of the skirt2049is altered. The longer the current path, the easier it may be for the receiver to detect the current.

Referring now toFIG. 23, the system2030ofFIG. 21is shown in an activated state and in contact with conducting liquid. The system2030is grounded through ground contact2052. The system2030also includes a sensor module2074, which is described in greater detail with respect toFIG. 24. Ion or current paths2050form between material2034to material2036through the conducting fluid in contact with the system2030. The voltage potential created between the material2034and2036is created through chemical reactions between materials2034/2036and the conducting fluid.

FIG. 23Ashows an exploded view of the surface of the material2034. The surface of the material2034is not planar, but rather an irregular surface2054as shown. The irregular surface2054increases the surface area of the material and, hence, the area that comes in contact with the conducting fluid.

In one aspect, at the surface of the material2034, there is chemical reaction between the material2034and the surrounding conducting fluid such that mass is released into the conducting fluid. The term “mass” as used herein refers to protons and neutrons that form a substance. One example includes the instant where the material is CuCl and when in contact with the conducting fluid, CuCl becomes Cu (solid) and Cl.sup.− in solution. The flow of ions into the conduction fluid is depicted by the ion paths2050. In a similar manner, there is a chemical reaction between the material2036and the surrounding conducting fluid and ions are captured by the material2036. The release of ions at the material2034and capture of ion by the material2036is collectively referred to as the ionic exchange. The rate of ionic exchange and, hence the ionic emission rate or flow, is controlled by the control device2038. The control device2038can increase or decrease the rate of ion flow by altering the conductance, which alters the impedance, between the materials2034and2036. Through controlling the ion exchange, the system2030can encode information in the ionic exchange process. Thus, the system2030uses ionic emission to encode information in the ionic exchange.

The control device2038can vary the duration of a fixed ionic exchange rate or current flow magnitude while keeping the rate or magnitude near constant, similar to when the frequency is modulated and the amplitude is constant. Also, the control device2038can vary the level of the ionic exchange rate or the magnitude of the current flow while keeping the duration near constant. Thus, using various combinations of changes in duration and altering the rate or magnitude, the control device2038encodes information in the current flow or the ionic exchange. For example, the control device2038may use, but is not limited to any of the following techniques namely, Binary Phase-Shift Keying (PSK), Frequency modulation, Amplitude modulation, on-off keying, and PSK with on-off keying.

As indicated above, the various aspects disclosed herein, such as systems2100and2040ofFIGS. 21 and 22, respectively, include electronic components as part of the control device2038or the control device2048. Components that may be present include but are not limited to: logic and/or memory elements, an integrated circuit, an inductor, a resistor, and sensors for measuring various parameters. Each component may be secured to the framework and/or to another component. The components on the surface of the support may be laid out in any convenient configuration. Where two or more components are present on the surface of the solid support, interconnects may be provided.

As indicated above, the system, such as system2100and2040, control the conductance between the dissimilar materials and, hence, the rate of ionic exchange or the current flow. Through altering the conductance in a specific manner the system is capable of encoding information in the ionic exchange and the current signature. The ionic exchange or the current signature is used to uniquely identify the specific system. Additionally, the systems2100and2040are capable of producing various different unique exchanges or signatures and, thus, provide additional information. For example, a second current signature based on a second conductance alteration pattern may be used to provide additional information, which information may be related to the physical environment. To further illustrate, a first current signature may be a very low current state that maintains an oscillator on the chip and a second current signature may be a current state at least a factor of ten higher than the current state associated with the first current signature.

Referring now toFIG. 24, a block diagram representation of the control device2038is shown. The device2030includes a control module2062, a counter or clock2064, and a memory2066. Additionally, the device2038is shown to include a sensor module2072as well as the sensor module2074, which was referenced inFIG. 23. The control module2062has an input2068electrically coupled to the material2034and an output2070electrically coupled to the material2036. The control module2062, the clock2064, the memory2066, and the sensor modules2072/2074also have power inputs (some not shown). The power for each of these components is supplied by the voltage potential produced by the chemical reaction between materials2034and2036and the conducting fluid, when the system2030is in contact with the conducting fluid. The control module2062controls the conductance through logic that alters the overall impedance of the system2030. The control module2062is electrically coupled to the clock2064. The clock2064provides a clock cycle to the control module2062. Based upon the programmed characteristics of the control module2062, when a set number of clock cycles have passed, the control module2062alters the conductance characteristics between materials2034and2036. This cycle is repeated and thereby the control device2038produces a unique current signature characteristic. The control module2062is also electrically coupled to the memory2066. Both the clock2064and the memory2066are powered by the voltage potential created between the materials2034and2036. The control module2062is also electrically coupled to and in communication with the sensor modules2072and2074. In the aspect shown, the sensor module2072is part of the control device2038and the sensor module2074is a separate component. In alternative aspects, either one of the sensor modules2072and2074can be used without the other and the scope of the present invention is not limited by the structural or functional location of the sensor modules2072or2074. Additionally, any component of the system2030may be functionally or structurally moved, combined, or repositioned without limiting the scope of the present invention as claimed. Thus, it is possible to have one single structure, for example a processor, which is designed to perform the functions of all of the following modules: the control module2062, the clock2064, the memory2066, and the sensor module2072or2074. On the other hand, it is also within the scope of the present invention to have each of these functional components located in independent structures that are linked electrically and able to communicate. Referring again toFIG. 24, the sensor modules2072or2074can include any of the following sensors: temperature, pressure, pH level, and conductivity. In one aspect, the sensor modules2072or2074gather information from the environment and communicate the analog information to the control module2062. The control module then converts the analog information to digital information and the digital information is encoded in the current flow or the rate of the transfer of mass that produces the ionic flow. In another aspect, the sensor modules2072or2074gather information from the environment and convert the analog information to digital information and then communicate the digital information to control module2062. In the aspect shown inFIG. 23, the sensor modules2074is shown as being electrically coupled to the material2034and2036as well as the control device2038. In another aspect, as shown inFIG. 24, the sensor module2074is electrically coupled to the control device and the connection acts as both a source for power supply to the sensor module2074and a communication channel between the sensor module2074and the control device2038. Referring now toFIG. 23B, the system2030includes a pH sensor module2076connected to a material2039, which is selected in accordance with the specific type of sensing function being performed. The pH sensor module2076is also connected to the control device2038. The material2039is electrically isolated from the material2034by a non-conductive barrier2055. In one aspect, the material2039is platinum. In operation, the pH sensor module2076uses the voltage potential difference between the materials2034/2036. The pH sensor module2076measures the voltage potential difference between the material2034and the material2039and records that value for later comparison. The pH sensor module2076also measures the voltage potential difference between the material2039and the material2036and records that value for later comparison. The pH sensor module2076calculates the pH level of the surrounding environment using the voltage potential values. The pH sensor module2076provides that information to the control device2038. The control device2038varies the rate of the transfer of mass that produces the ionic transfer and the current flow to encode the information relevant to the pH level in the ionic transfer, which can be detected by a receiver (not shown). Thus, the system2030can determine and provide the information related to the pH level to a source external to the environment. As indicated above, the control device2038can be programmed in advance to output a pre-defined current signature. In another aspect, the system can include a receiver system that can receive programming information when the system is activated. In another aspect, not shown, the switch2064and the memory2066can be combined into one device. In addition to the above components, the system2030may also include one or other electronic components. Electrical components of interest include, but are not limited to: additional logic and/or memory elements, e.g., in the form of an integrated circuit; a power regulation device, e.g., battery, fuel cell or capacitor; a sensor, a stimulator, etc.; a signal transmission element, e.g., in the form of an antenna, electrode, coil, etc.; a passive element, e.g., an inductor, resistor, etc. It will be appreciated that in the interest of conciseness and clarity, although the plug/jack connection arrangement has been disclosed herein, other suitable connection arrangements are contemplated to be within the scope of the present disclosure. Such other connection arrangements include, without limitation, any electrical connector that is an electro-mechanical device for joining electrical circuits as an interface using a mechanical arrangement. The connection may be temporary, as for portable equipment, require a tool for arrangement and removal, or serve as a permanent electrical joint between two wires or devices. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that there are hundreds of types of electrical connectors for joining two lengths of flexible wire or cable, or connect a wire or cable or optical interface to an electrical terminal. In the context of the present disclosure, an electrical connector also may be referred to as a physical interface. Such connectors include, without limitation, plug and socket, audio/video, posts, keyed and unkeyed, locked and unlocked, modular multi-conductor plug and jacks commonly used for Ethernet/Cat5 applications, D-subminiature, data ports, USB, RF, direct current (DC), hybrid, among other suitable connection mechanisms.

It also will be appreciated that as described in the present disclosure, various ordinary objects have been modified to include electrodes to pick up the unique electrical current signature generated by the IEM device. Such ordinary objects include headphones with ear buds108as shown inFIGS. 1-4, a mobile device800as shown inFIGS. 8-10, a mobile device enclosing arrangement1102as shown inFIGS. 11-13, eyeglasses1504,1608as shown inFIGS. 15-16, a visor as shown inFIG. 17, a helmet1808as shown inFIG. 18, hearing aids1904R,1904L as shown inFIG. 19, and a chair2008as shown inFIG. 20. It will be appreciated, however, that the present disclosure is not limited in this context and it is contemplated that any suitable ordinary object can be modified to include a set of electrodes to carry the unique electrical current signal generated by the IEM device when the patient holds the object and makes physical contact with the electrodes after ingesting the IEM and associated medication. For example, other ordinary objects that can be modified to incorporate the electrodes include, without limitation, ear muffs, hats, drinking glasses, eating utensils (chopsticks, knife, spoon, fork), remote control devices entertainment systems (television, stereo, DVD player), portable media players (iPod by Apple, MP3 devices), computer keyboards, computer mouse, tabletop, medicine containers (pill bottles, vitamin bottles, inhalable dosing units), cardboard packaging of the medicine containers, head bands, hair bands, motorcycle helmets, ski helmets, goggles, ski goggles, coffee cups, toothbrushes, canes, walkers, bracelets, belts, suspenders, medic alert bracelets, steering wheel of a vehicle (car, truck), keys, house keys, vehicle (car, truck) keys, musical instruments (keyboards, saxophone), laptop computer, iPad by Apple or other tablet computer, e-book reader (Kindle by Amazon), purse, purse handles, gloves, mittens, business card holder, thimbles, pulse oximeters, salt and pepper shakers, beverage decanters (milk, wine), beverage bottles or cans (soda, juice, water) dentures, electronic scales, thermometers, stuffed animals (especially for children), exercise equipment (elliptical machine, dumbbells, weightlifting, exercise ball, stationary bike), digital camera (still or motion image camera), board games (Scrabble, Monopoly, chess), digital recording device, Dictaphone, among others.

It also will be appreciated that as described in the present disclosure, that the mobile devices that incorporate an image capture device (e.g., a digital camera) may be used to capture an image of the IEM device, medication, container in which the medication, among others. Once the image is captured it can be used to verify the patient taking the medication, the medication itself, expiration dates on the package, among other information. The digitally captured image can be stored, compressed, transmitted over local and wide area networks (such as the Internet), and so on.

It is worthy to note that any reference to “one aspect” or “an aspect” means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the aspect is included in at least one aspect. Thus, appearances of the phrases “in one aspect” or “in an aspect” in various places throughout the specification are not necessarily all referring to the same aspect. Furthermore, the particular features, structures or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more aspects.

1. A mobile device for detecting an electrical signal generated by an ingestible event marker, the mobile device comprising:a detection subsystem to receive an electrical signal generated by an ingestible event marker from a detection arrangement, preferably wherein the detection subsystem comprises an electrode input circuit to receive the electrical signal from the detection arrangement,a processing subsystem coupled to the detection subsystem to decode the electrical signal; anda radio subsystem configured to transmit the decoded electrical signal to a wireless node.

2. The mobile device of clause 1, comprising one or more of the following:

a connector to receive a plug coupled to the detection arrangement,

a housing, wherein the detection arrangement is integrated with the housing,

an application software program comprising a series of computer executable instructions executable by the processing system, wherein when the computer executable instructions are executed by the processing subsystem causes the radio subsystem to initiate communication with the wireless node.

3. The mobile device according to clauses 1 or 2 wherein the detection subsystem comprises an electrode input circuit to receive the electrical signal from the detection arrangement.

4. The mobile device according to any of the preceding clauses further comprising a connector coupled to the electrode input circuit and the detection arrangement comprises a plug to be received in the connector.

5. A system for detecting an electrical signal generated by an ingestible event marker, the system comprising:a mobile device according to any of the preceding clauses anda detection arrangement to couple to the mobile device.

6. The system of clause 5, comprising a cover to receive the mobile device, wherein the detection subsystem is located in the enclosing arrangement.

7. The system of clause 5 or 6, wherein the processing subsystem is located in the cover.

8. The system of clause 6 or 7, wherein the cover comprises a connector to couple to the detection subsystem of the processing to receive the processing subsystem of the mobile device.

9. The system according to any of the clauses 5-8 wherein the detection arrangement comprises:at least one electrode to couple to a living body; anda plug having a first end wiredly coupled to the at least one electrode and a second end wiredly coupled to a connector of the mobile device to wiredly connect the at least one electrode to the detection subsystem of the mobile device.

10. The system according to any of the clauses 5-8 wherein the detection arrangement comprises:at least one electrode to couple to a living body;a detection circuit module coupled to the at least one electrode; andan antenna coupled to the detection circuit module.

11. The system of clause 10, wherein the detection arrangement is wirelessly coupled to the mobile device.

12. The system according to any of the clauses 5-11 wherein the detection arrangement is located in an object, preferably selected from the group consisting essentially of headphones with ear buds, a mobile device, a mobile device cover, eyeglasses, a visor, and a helmet.

13. The system according to any of the preceding clauses 5-12 further comprising an ingestible event marker.

15. A method of processing an electrical signal generated by an ingestible event marker, the method comprising:receiving an electrical signal generated by an ingestible event marker at a mobile device, the mobile device preferably according to any of the preceding clauses 1-4,decoding the electrical signal received by the mobile device to extract information associated with the ingestible event marker; and transmitting the information to a wireless node.

16. The method of clause 15, further comprising transmitting the information to a remote node.

17. Use of a mobile device and/or a system according to any of the preceding clauses 1-4, 5-13 respectively for detecting an electrical signal generated by an ingestible event marker.